Parthenissa, that most fam'd romance the six volumes compleat / composed by ... the Earl of Orrery.

PARTHENISSA. (Book 1)

THE FIRST PART. (Book 1)

BOOK I.

THE Sun was already so far declin'd, that his heat was not offensive, when a Stranger richly Arm'd, and proporti∣onably blest with all the gifts of Nature, and Education, alighted at the Temple of Hierapolis in Syria, where the Queen of Love had setled an Oracle, as fa∣mous as the Deity, to whom it was Consecrated. The Stranger having dis∣arm'd himself, and learnt the unusual silence of the Goddess, commanded his servant to enquire out some retir'd lodg∣ing for him, which whilst he was do∣ing, his Master walk't about that sacred place, without so much as con∣sidering the beauty, and rareness of the structure, and with so lan∣guishing and careless a pace, that those which consider'd it, easily judg'd, 'twas chiefly the distempers of his Mind, which had so strong an influence over his Body. Amongst many that were so employed, Callimachus, the Prince of that holy Society, was so ravisht with those charms, which in spight of fortunes cruelties, did yet inhabit his face and shape, and so strangely sympathiz'd in those crosses, whose effects were not more apparent, than their causes unknown; that he could not abstain from interrupting the strangers melancholly, by going to salute him, where after those civilities which are usually practis'd in such en∣counters, he invited him into a less frequented walk than that he had chosen: The stranger inform'd of his quality and profession, was unwil∣ling to be uncivil to either, and therefore obeyed his invitation, but had far rather employ'd the time of the Oracles silence in the enter∣tainment of his thoughts, though they never permitted him so much as a good expectation, always representing his hopes and fears through a false Optick, which had so transcendently alter'd him, that if the Gods

could have been mistaken in the infliction of their punishments, so strange a change had made them doubt, they had been so in him.

The good Callimachus, who judg'd by the reliques what the perfecti∣on had been, led him purposely alone into a solitary Walk, to learn his Adventures, and perceiving the unintermissiveness of his melan∣choly, he took that for the rise, and told him, I have had no small dis∣pute, Sir, with my self, before I resolv'd to beg of you a relation of your life; for I know by experience, that the repetition of a misfor∣tune is a new one, but the great Goddess, whose unworthy Priest I am, hath often rais'd a curiosity in me to learn the Adventures of ma∣ny who come to consult her Oracle, and afterwards has inspir'd me with such advice, that from thence they have deriv'd their future happiness: And I am strongly perswaded you may enjoy an advantage equal un∣to many others, if you will furnish me with a resembling means. Alas, Sir, the Stranger reply'd, though I am confident your Goddesses fa∣vours to you are great, and that your judgment is so, yet the higher Powers have so incessantly persecuted me, that my folly would propor∣tion my misfortunes, did I expect any ease but in the Grave; neither do I know whether then I shall be at quiet; for sleep being the Image of Death, and my Dreams tormenting me as much as my Thoughts, I may with too much reason suspect, that what is the remedy of all afflicti∣ons to others, will loose that property where I am concern'd. The vir∣tuous Callimachus here interrupted him by saying, I shall not much won∣der that your miseries are great, since your diffidence of the Gods is so: They are never more offended than when men despair of their Providence, nor readier to assist, then when there is no visible relief, and yet a firm reliance on it: The Deity being never more apparent than in doing things as well beyond the Expectation, as the de••ert of Man. Then taking the Stranger by the hand, he begg'd his pardon for so necessary an interruption, beseeching him to believe that great Truth, which both his profession, and experience made him utter. The Stranger found this reprehension to be as just as civil; and after having assur'd Callimachus that 'twas his melancholly (not he) that had offended, did offer him as a Penance to relate his Fortunes. Callimachus being highly satisfied with it, answer'd him, You see how much the Gods are pleas'd with those which assume their quarrel, for my performing it has not only produc'd the ambition'd effect of making you perceive your fault, but hath be∣sides procured an engagement I was almost as impatient of, and would it might please those Powers to give me the means as certainly to reme∣dy your misfortunes, as I am confident I shall be a sharer in them. By that time this Civility was answer'd, they were come into a Walk so co∣ver'd with Yew and Cypress, that it appeared a fit Scene for so sad a Sto∣ry, where Callimachus's silence made the Stranger begin this ensuing Re∣lation.

The Story of Parthenissa and Artabanes.

THough my misfortunes are of so sad a quality, that I should ra∣ther publish than conceal who I am, since I might find by divul∣ging my self, that cure from my Enemies resentments the Gods have hin∣der'd my own from performing, yet because they have commanded me to learn my destiny from this Oracle, I am determin'd not to contri∣bute any thing which probably may hinder it, and if by that answer

it gives me: I find my Death as necessary as I now believe it. I had ra∣ther also erect to be oblig'd to my own hands for my Cure, than to those of my Enemies; 'tis upon these considerations onely, that before I proceed any further, I must beg your secresie; my actions as you will understand by the sequel of my discourse, having rais'd me Enemies whose power is as great as their malice. Callimachus would here have made him Protestation of that inviolable silence he desir'd, but the generous Stranger would not permit him, believing himself sufficiently certain of it, by having acquainted him now necessary it was: And therefore not to give the holy Priest any time for so needless an assurance, he thus continu'd his Story. My name is Artabanes, I was born in the Reign of Orodes, the present King of Parthia, who is also called Arsaces, (which is the name appropriated to all those Kings, in honor to Arsaces, the first Founder of that Monarchy) I had my education with Orode's eldest son, the Prince Pacorus, whose favour I possess'd in no unconside∣r••ble degree, while I had the honour to be near him. My Father, whose name is Moneses, might now by a just succession wear the Crown of Media; did not a nobler Principle invite him to decline it. He was Unkle to Tigranes, the last King of that flourishing Countrey, and one∣ly Brother to Tiridates his Father, who, by the infusions of evil Coun∣sellors had received so great a jealousie of mine, that to vindicate his innocency, and to remove his Brothers suspitions, he retir'd into Par∣thia, where Orodes's entertainment was worthy the great Blood of the Arsacides, of which Moneses hath the honour to be descended, and in a short time, gave him his only Sister the Princess Ebuzara, who having presented my Father with the unfortunate Artabanes (three years after) with Lindary, she dyed, but Arsaces affection for her Husband did not, and he multiplyed his favours on my Sister and me so abundantly, that a long while we little found the want of so excellent a Mother, his tran∣scendent care so well supplyed that loss. Moneses had his education among the Grecians, whose Customs he so highly valu'd, that I was no sooner fit to learn, than he had by liberal Pensions procured many of that Coun∣trey to render my Education perfect; in all which exercises, as well of the Mind as of the Body, those that flatter'd me would say, I was no ill Proficient. One day as I was waiting on the King, there came in a La∣dy in Mourning, who presented a Petition to him; But oh Gods! with so much majesty and humility together, that I admir'd how two such di∣stant things could meet in one subject, her Eyes had antipathy to the Li∣berties of our Sex, destroying all those that beheld them, her shape and motion had peculiar Charms, and she had a certain vivacity and air in her countenance, that assur'd me her wit was not inferiour to her beauty, and yet one might easily perceive, that Time, which is the ruine of all other Faces, would but improve hers, she being not then above fifteen years old. I must ingenuously confess, my heart by some extraordinary motions foretold proportionate events, and the sight of so many perfe∣ctions made me inquisitive of her name which possest them: A Cour∣tier which stood by, soon satisfied my curiosity, by acquainting me her name was Parthenissa, that she was the onely heir of the generous Mi∣raxtorses, who had been long General of the Parthians, that this young Princess petition'd the King for a continuation of that Principality, which had been enjoyed by her Father; who from all his services and victories deriv'd no other advantage, than the honor of acting them, and at his death had left no other Wealth behind him, but that of a high Re∣putation.

While the King was reading her Petition, I took the oppor∣tunity of saluting her, and after some little civilities of telling her, Ma∣dam, I find two things since my coming into this Chamber worthy of my wonder, that Miraxtorses's deserts should Petition for a Reward, and that you should present it, or if I am singular in both these causes of admiration I have a third, in which I shall have as many of my opinion, as beholders of what creates it; If, Sir, reply'd she (with a little redness) I had no better hope of success in my desires to the first, than I have no pretence to the last cause of your admiration, I should despair of my request, or at least onely expect that from the Kings favour, which I now assure my self to receive from his Justice. Madam (said I) you have so good a Title both to what you petition for, and to all I ascribe un∣to you, that I shall think you do more wrong the fair Parthenissa by disclaiming so great a truth, than Fortune has, by necessitating you to desire, or Arsaces can, though he declin'd granting it; which least he should, I humbly beg you not to refuse the duty of my friends or my interceeding with him. Then without staying for her consent, lest she should reject the first proffer of my service, I went immediate∣ly blushing and trembling to my Father, who then came in, and besought him to employ his power with Orodes, in a cause so worthy his solliciting, and the Kings concession. Moneses, who was always inclin'd to actions of this quality, so powerfully perswaded Arsaces to grant the fair Par∣thenissa's request, that he did it. You may easily imagine I received no small contentment in this little service, especially when after I had begg'd her to accept it as an earnest of what I was confin'd to pay her; me∣thought her blushes plac'd a true interpretation on my meaning: But after that little disorder was past, whether to disguise it, or out of a true sence of what she was then going to say, I cannot tell; but I can, that her answer was, My obligation to you (Sir) is so extreme great, that it makes me almost question the Kings justice, or my Fathers me∣rits, which needed so powerful an intercession. I had no leisure to reply, for Arsaces retir'd into his Cabinet, and she to her own house, whither I desir'd to wait on her, but she would permit me to do so no farther than to her Chariot. I withdrew my self immediately after to my own Ap∣partment, and passed the rest of the day with some impatience, long∣ing for a Darkness equal to that which began to diffuse it self over my Thoughts, that I might the more uninterruptedly entertain them. As soon as I was a-bed, instead of that rest I usually took, I found mine was disturbed by a throng of Assailants. But Parthenissa's beauty had assum'd so transcendent an Empire over my memory, that my reflections on it almost suppressed all others; which made me begin to imagine it was Love, by my then resenting what I had heard of it. I must confess this did somewhat surprise me, for my Governor had imbued me with so bad a character of that passion (he being a Stoick) that I fear'd it almost as much as I admir'd Parthenissa; which made me call into my memory all those Antidotes he had given me, As the poorness of submitting to a Sex the Gods had given ours the Authority over: The vast troubles in purchasing our desires: The smallness (commonly) of the value, if ob∣tain'd; or the natural Inconstancy of Women, which by depriving us of a known felicity, renders the loss greater. That by the definition of Love, the Chase is a greater happiness than the Quarry; For Love is a desire, and we never desire that which we enjoy, therefore with the fruition the Love ceases; so that the best of Love is to be ill, but to be well again;

Who would be a Votary to that Passion? Many other arguments my memory would have furnisht me withal, had not the growing Idea of Parthenissa's beauty made them vanish; and then my Reason taking her Defence, furnisht me with these Answers. That the Precedency that our Sex had over hers, was rather an Assumption of our own, than a Con∣cession of the Gods; for amongst those Creatures which purely observe the Dictates of Nature, and can neither Lie nor Dissemble, the Fe∣minine Sex is courted by the Masculine; or if the Divine Law gave the last preheminence over the first, yet the Law of Custom did suspend it. That the consideration of troubles to a mind capable of so high a De∣sign as the adoring of Parthenissa, should rather inflame than diminish the courage. In what darkness had the World liv'd, if difficulty had not rather added to, than suppress'd the Desires of generous undertakings: As for the smallness of the value if obtain'd, that is not the fault of Love, but of Choice. That Inconstancy is not hereditary to the Sex, the examples of Lucretia, and many others sufficiently evidencing, that is not their Nature, but their Vice: That it would be a difficult thing to perswade a man who might grow rich, out of that desire, from an apprehension that if he became poor again, his loss would be the more unsupportable. And lastly, to Loves being a desire which ceaseth with fruition; we might as justly say, that a Merchant which courts Wealth, and makes his life his trouble to obtain it; when he has his end, may as properly be call'd poor, as an enjoying Lover, by fru∣ition, ceases to be one; for when he once has the possession, so many unfancy'd joyes disclose themselves, that they afford sufficient nourish∣ment to preserve, if not increase the fire; and the desire of the conti∣nuance of that happiness does still maintain Love, if Love were only a desire: For Fruition is not like lighting, that vanishes so soon as it ap∣pears, but as the Elizian Joyes, whose greatness consists in the durati∣on; so that Love is better in the Quarry than in the Chase; yet the lat∣ter is a happiness too, onely as the means, but Fruition perfects happiness as the end. I tell you these little Reasonings, not that I esteem them worthy your attention, but to acquaint you with Parthenissa's power: since to captivate a heart that had no aversion to Love, is as common, as to subdue one so prepossest with a prejudicate opinion of it, was one∣ly fit for Parthenissa's Beauty, in which all virtues were so evident, that I needed not the help of time, but of sight to disclose them. I will not trouble you any more in telling you how long it was before I did sub∣mit, since at last I was necessitated to it, and had no sooner resolv'd there was no mean between my misery and her favour, but I apply'd my self to all wayes I imagin'd might render me the least unworthy of it. And to shew how much the Gods contributed to the growth of this passion; there fell out after many revolutions, an accident (even when my sufferings must have disclos'd what I had brought my words to conceal) which did not onely acquaint her with the greatness of my flame, but did also inspire her with one which has since proved so fatal to us both. There was an Ancient custom in Parthia, to celebrate the Anniversary of the Kings Coronation, with all the shews of magnificence and joy, which the Art or Affections of the people could invent; and because the Parthians were ever esteem'd the Warlik'st Nation in the whole World, to continue that just reputa∣tion, they declin'd all those effeminacies which are so predominant in other Courts, and absolutely addicted themselves to such Martial exer∣cises as are nothing less pleasing and delightful than the others, and yet fit

and prepare men more for the real use of Arms, and Acquisition of Glory. 'Twas this practice, which made the youth about the Court, to publish over all Asia a solemn Tilting, where such as had any skill and courage were invited to shew them, by divers Heralds expresly sent into all the Kingdoms of the East. And though this was more upon Gallantry than any other score, and that the Laws of it extended only to breaking of Laun∣ces, yet there hapned an accident which wholly subverted the first inten∣tion of so innocent a meeting.

The exercises of it were to last three days, and Fortune, to evince her blindness, had permitted me the two first to remain victorious: But as I was coming out of the Lists, attended by the acclamations, and com∣pany of my friends, we heard a great noise of Trumpets and Clarions, which imposed on us a general stop and silence, the King too, and all the Court, at so unexpected Musick, return'd to their seats to learn the cause of it: Their curiosity was soon satisfied by the appearing of Four and twenty Blackamoor Pages, richly cloath'd, and well horst, who car∣ried each of them at the end of an Ebony stick tipt with gold, the several Picture of some excellent Beauty: These were followed by their Master, who was advantageously mounted, and whose Helmet be∣ing open'd, discover'd a Face more capable to create fear than any other Passion; and yet even in those barbarous features, there was an am∣ple evidence of a resembling courage and magnanimity. As soon as he was come near the highest Scaffold, he sent one of the six Pages which followed him, to enquire where the King was; who having obey'd, and satisfied his Lord, he himself immediately advanc'd towards Arsaces, and made him a salutation much after the rate of these ensuing words. Sir (said he) I am of that Arabia, which is called the Happy, and am in some degree ally'd to the King of that Countrey; I ador'd a Beauty there, which had no defect but her cruelty, and though that soon ended with her life, yet my Passion instead of dying with the object of it, did the contrary; for it increast to such a height, that it seemed all those flames with which she set so many hearts on fire, flew into mine, as the seat of the great'st and perfect'st Empire: And though time be the common cure of most misfortunes, yet it prov'd the increase of mine; for the more I reflected on my loss, the greater I always found it; and at last the operation of so just a grief, reduc'd me to so deep a melancholly, that my King came to visit me, and to cure my Passion, spoke so many impi∣ous things against the perfection that had created it, (which he injuriously said was equall'd by many) that not daring to expiate his offence with his life, because of his character, I publickly vow'd never to continue in his Dominions, and that I would visit all the Courts of Asia, to justi∣fie that none but my own King durst say any Beauty was comparable to that of the fair Mizalinza's. To effect this, I instantly abandon'd the place of my birth, and publisht my design, and the conditions of the Combat, (if any were so vain as to undertake it) which were, That whosoever should defend the object of his Passion, by equalling it to her that created mine, in case I became victorious, he should give me the Picture of his Mistris, which I ever after carried with me, and hung up as a Trophy. These Four and twenty several Beauties had the ill for∣tune to be compar'd to Mizalinza's, and by the Death, or Conquest of those which ador'd them, are now to wait upon her, whom their delu∣ded Lovers equall'd them to. The fame of this great meeting, has drawn me Sir to your Court, where if any be so presumptuous as to justifie such

folly, I will not with my Lance alone (which I understand is the onely Arms of this Tilting) but with my Sword maintain a truth which Mi∣zalinza's eyes, more than the defeat of the greatest Courages in the World, hath abundantly justified. But perhaps (he coutinued) that the sight of this charming beauty, will produce a confession, which may exempt my Sword from that trouble; Thereupon with a deep reverence, he drew out the Copy of so glorified an Original, and having exposed it to all our views, he further added, that if any durst undertake to lessen her perfection by a comparison, that the next morning he would appear on the same place he was then on, to manifest to the offender, that nothing but his blood was capable to wash away his crime. Then without staying for any an∣swer, he retir'd to his Lodgings, and left us in as great an astonishment at his insolence, as at his Passion; But Arsaces, who was a Prince that in his youth had been blest with a high valour, did so exceedingly resent the impudence of Ambixules (for so this Arabian Prince was called) that he publickly profest, if none in his Court had the courage to fight with him, he would do it, for the defence of an Imaginary Mistris, rather than suffer an affront to be done unto the Parthians, as great even as the insolency with which it was committed. There is no doubt but that Orodes's Court was then replenisht with Men, who apprehended nothing in dangers, but that they were not great enough; Yet at that instant, the loves of the major part were so unhappy, that they durst not ac∣knowledge the Objects of them, and 'twas upon that score onely, this Arabian had like to have engross'd an honour without drawing his Sword, greater than ever he had obtained by it. The same misfortune had then an influence over me, and I dare truly profess, if I had any uncertainty in the undertaking to punish Ambixules insolence, it pro∣ceeded not from my apprehension of him, but Parthenissa, for whom I durst hardly acknowledge openly I had a Passion, till she in private had approv'd it; But I thought the crime of that presumption would not equal that of the tacite confession and beauty transcended hers, and that I had a less Title to her anger, by discovering my flame to defend her right, than expose that to any apparent injury, by a concealment of it: Neither was it impossible but I might return from the Combat with∣out receiving any such wounds, whose cure might necessitate my disco∣very, in which case, I was resolv'd to conceal my self, and not acknow∣ledge my Passion, till she, to whom it was addrest, would bless me with the reception of it. 'Twas with these and many such reasons, that I assum'd a re∣solution to become the Protector of an Excellency, which had no misfortune, but that it needed one, or that it had one so unworthy that honour as Ar∣tabanes: I kept this determination exceeding private, least if it had been discover'd, my friends might have deny'd my first essay in Arms to have been against so known a Conqueror; I had some difficulty too, to fit my self with Armour, for that I had made use of the two precedent days, was too publickly known to have been used the third. But, I re∣member'd that the Prince Sillaces, my most particular friend, and who merited abundantly to be so, had an excellent one, which he had made for that solemnity, but being unfortunately troubl'd with an Ague, he was necessitated to decline shewing his skill and gallantry, which indeed I apprehended more than any others. These Arms I sent privately to borrow of his servant, who, knowing his Prince could not possibly use them, sent them to me; and I found that they were very fit, our shapes, and heights being as resembling as our friendships. I will not amuse

my self to tell you how impatiently I past the night, nor how early I came to the assignation, lest some others should have prevented me: I shall not onely let you know, that I was there before any that might have had my design, and before Ambixules too; whom I did not long expect, and how at his entry into the Lists, manag'd his Horse with so much art and grace, that he attracted all the eyes of the assistants: After he had ended, I began the same exercise, to shew him I was not ignorant of it; But not to dress a true story in cloaths of a Romance, I will pass by the descriptions of our Arms, Devices, Motto's, and all things of so low a nature; to acquaint you, that Ambixules having repaid me the civility of looking on his Horses manage, demanded of me the sight of my Mi∣stresses Picture; to which I told him, That the Excellency I ador'd, would not be what it was, if it lay in the power of Art to represent it; but that the Original being present, I would conduct him to it; where his Justice must be as blind, as she herself is painted, if he did not adore what he came to injure. Come, said Ambixules, smiling, I will go see this Beauty, to convince you by a demonstration, that he which hath seen Mizalinza's eyes, can be conquer'd by no others; but (he continued) though contrary to my practice, I am content to begin the Combat be∣fore I see your Mistrisses Picture; yet you must oblige your self, that some friend for you, after your death, will let me have the reward of it. This insolence did not a little offend me, but being resolv'd to repair the wrong with nobler Arms than those which had committed it; I onely told him, I was confident to give him the recompence of his Victory, be∣fore he won it, since it was impossible to see Parthenissa, without carry∣ing away her Image. By this time we were come so near her, that I went to the Scaffold she was on, and without lifting up my Helmet (to continue my disguise) I saluted her with a respect equal to my Passion, and told her; Madam, if I have the confidence to beg your permission to vindicate your beauty, 'tis out of a certainty that the success of so just a dispute, cannot but prove as fortunate, as that it needs not any defence: Neither do I draw my Sword to justifie that you are the persectest of your Sex, but to punish Ambixules for not acknowledging it. Whilst I was speaking these few words, she was in some disorder, yet it was so inno∣cent a one, that it rather was a friend than any enemy to her beauty; but she quickly supprest it, to answer me. Whosoever you are, that to give a long proof of your Courage, give as little one of your Judgment; I shall conjure you not to undertake a defence, where the injustice of the quarrel may give your Enemy an advantage, which I believe he would hardly obtain on a contrary score. Madam (I reply'd) I know how to di∣stinguish betwixt your Modesty and your Justice, and consequently to attribute to what you now speak, to the first; but if you have so par∣tial a character of the fair Parthenissa, I will convince her by an expe∣riment, how much she has injur'd herself, and my election. Thereup∣on saluting her with an infinite humility, but without staying for any re∣ply, I desir'd Ambixules to return to the place of Combat, and to hasten a decision of it; but he was so intent, and ravisht in the consideration of Parth••nissa's beauties, that to interrupt his thoughts, I was forc'd to tell him, Ambixules, I fear if you continue longer in the employment you are in, I shall have but little honour in my Victory, having to deal with one who will have lost his heart. This truth made him asham'd of what he should rather have gloried in; so that turnnig about his Horse, he rid with me where the Judges attended us, and by the way assur'd

me that my Mistris had so much of Mizalinza in her, that having van∣quisht me, he would desire no other Picture of her than that which he carried in his memory. This Antedated Victory I excus'd upon the same score that I had the former, being by this time come where it was no time to talk. I will pass by acquainting you with the joy Arsaces had to perceive this Arabian was not altogether unlike to escape unpunished; the general wonder of all the Court who I was, and the secret repining of many Beauties to perceive Parthenissa's could find a Protector, when none of theirs had any; to tell you, That the three first courses, we broke our Lances with equal advantage; and perceiving they were too civil Weapons for our designs, we both, as if it had been by mutual consent, drew out our Swords, and soon made each other feel of what temper they were of; but Ambixules having given me a furious reverse, which I was endeavouring to repay in the same coin, his Horse unexpected∣ly rose before, so that what I intended for his Master, fell upon him, and the blow being given with all my strength, and lighting upon his head, cleft it in two. I was extremely troubled at this misfortune, and having begg'd Ambixules pardon for an undesign'd wrong, I trotted some seven∣ty paces from him, and lighting off my Horse, I return'd again, and told him, That to manifest I would take no advantage over him, but what I had by the goodness of my quarrel, and that what I had done was un∣intended, I came to offer him, if he thought he had any odds in fight∣ing on Horse-back, to send for a fresh one, that then he should make choice of that or of mine; or if he esteem'd himself in as good a condition on foot, I was ready so to finish what we had begun. The Arabian reply'd, That he knew his courage gave him sufficient advantage over me in whatsoever posture he was in; and since I had kill'd his Horse, he would not so long a time suspend his revenge, as that which must be spent in sending for another. This rudeness so incenst me, that I repay'd it with some dangerous wounds, but at the last, finding his fury more than his strength made him continue the Combat, I retir'd two or three pa∣ces, with intention to preserve a valor I could not but esteem, though I had receiv'd some dangerous effects of it, and told him; You see Am∣bixules the power of Justice, which has reduc'd you to a condition of ac∣knowledging, rather than persevering in your error, and that advantage which the goodness of my cause hath given me, I desire onely to em∣ploy to obtain a confession from your tongue, which your weakness has already made. Nor my weakness, nor my tongue (said he) shall ever confess you have any advantage over me, and whilst I hold my Sword, you shall find me a subject fitter to create your fear than your pity. There∣upon he renew'd the Fight with much more strength than I thought he had left him; yet for a while I onely defended my self, but when I per∣ceiv'd his blows were so brisk, that my charity might prove my ruine, and that he had so much vigor, as I might kill him without a stain; I cry'd out to him; Since my civility cannot make you acknowledge what your justice should, your death shall. Finishing these words, I made him soon feel the punishment of a fault which might have had a milder reparation, if the continuance of his insolency had not render'd him unworthy of it. But to conclude this Tragedy, as soon as he fell, he told me, Whosoever thou art, I forgive thee that death, which by my being worsted, is rather my joy than my trouble, and though I scorn to beg my Life, (were it in thy power to save, which I thank the gods it is not) yet I do not, to conjure thee, to assure that Beauty which to have

fought against does more afflict me than to be reduc'd to what I am, that 'twas her Eyes which inspir'd thy Arm, and weighed down mine; and, that had not shame been more prevalent with me than truth, I had been her Champion, and not her Adversary; Conjure her to pardon a crime which I expiate with my blood, and which my hand should have punisht for her, if thine had not. He would have continu'd his recantation, by which I perceiv'd I had not onely kill'd an Enemy, but a Rival, had he not found, that his Tongue began to faulter, which made him, though with much difficulty, turn himself towards the place where Parthenissa was, and not having the strength to speak to her, he lift up his hands to implore that pardon his hasty summons hinder'd him to express. As soon as Ambixules was dead, all his Pages came, and presented me those Pi∣ctures, which had been the rewards of their Princes former Combats and de∣sir'd me that they might have his body to carry into Arabia, which I yielded unto; and then taking all the consequents of my Victory, I went with them to Parthenissa's Scaffold, where I found her by an excess of goodness weep∣ing the death of her Enemy, which made me envy what I had deplor'd, and forc'd me to think my success a misfortune, since it created the fair Par∣thenissa's tears, who judging of my disorder by my silence, wip'd them away, and thereby gave me the confidence to present her with all those fair Cap∣tives, and to tell her, That the Originals of them could no more complain against their Servants unhappy defence, since thereby they had the ho∣nor to be hers, which was a felicity greater than any could have atten∣ded their success. I then acquainted her with Ambixules last injunction, which I said was a proof that not onely he, but his reason was vanquisht, and that if he had earlier confest a truth which he could not but be con∣vinc'd of, I would rather have elected to have employ'd my Sword against my self than him; so great and just was the respect I paid all Adorers; under which Title I implor'd a pardon for having brought that to a dis∣pute which needed none, and that her justice would acknowledge, what that of the gods had, by the event of our Combat. To which Parthe∣nissa reply'd: I am convinc't of nothing by your Victory, but of your Civility and Courage; the last of which, you are certainly very confi∣dent of, when you durst undertake to employ it in so unjust a quarrel; nei∣ther can I doubt, by electing me for the subject of your difference, you had an intention to manifest, that your Sword needed no other assistance, but what it receiv'd from your Arm, and the concealing your self after a per∣formance, which the severest modesty might glory in, confirms me, that you injure your Courage to avoid doing the like unto your Judgment, and find more shame in owning the object your Quarrel, than satisfaction in the effect it has produc'd, Ah! Madam, I reply'd, do not impute the concealing my self to any thing but the respect I pay you, which is so great and just, that I had rather decline what you are pleas'd to say I may glory in, than hazard your anger by disclosing who I am; the ap∣prehension of the latter being far more prevalent with me, than any ad∣vantage I can derive from the former. But after some discourses of this quality, observing, that not onely all the Court, but Arsaces himself, was coming towards Parthenissa's Scaffold, I thought it high time to retire, and therefore made haste to tell her, that I was resolv'd to a concealment of my name, till by a succession of services I induced her to pardon the score upon which they were perform'd. A little Blush which this de∣claration caused, gave me a belief, that she understood my meaning, and the apprehension I had for her reply, as well as being environ'd by the

crowd, made me take my leave, but on an instant, I found a certain cold∣ness like the hand of Death seize on me, and suddenly after, I fell pale and speechless at Parthenissa's Feet. This unexpected accident had a very power∣full influence on her whilst she knew me not; but after she had discover'd who I was, by some peoples pulling off my Helmet, to give me a little air, she abandon'd herself so much to excess of grief, that many attributed the effects of her good nature to a more obliging cause; and doubtless, had I seen how happy I was in my misfortune, I had blest those wounds which were the causes of it. In brief, as soon as those which stood by knew me, they cry'd out, Artabanes is dead: which repeated noise coming at last to Moneses and Lyndadory's hearing; they ran transported with ad∣miration and grief to the place where I lay, and where they found Par∣thenissa with one hand stopping a spring of blood which issued f••om a large wound Ambixules had given me, with the other endeavouring to wipe away two springs of tears which ran from her fair Eyes. That cha∣rity gave them as high a subject of acknowledgment, as the occasion of it did of grief: But at last, a Litter being brought, and my blood stancht, I was carried to Moneses's Palace, accompanied by the tears of those, whose Acclamations I so lately had. Arsaces did me the honor to walk a foot by my Litter, and to see the first dressing of my wounds; where he receiv'd an assurance from the Chirurgions, that I had none which were dangerous; that loss of blood was the greatest harm I had sustained, and that rest was one of the best remedies they could prescribe; Where∣fore my Chamber was immediately emptied of all but my faithful Syman∣der; But this deep silence was so far from producing the effect which those that enjoyn'd it expected; that it did a contrary one, for then all my thoughts began to assault me. What? said I to my self, can Parthenissa have a greater assurance of the vastness of my Passion, than her know∣ledge of those Beauties which created it, and the services I have this day render'd them? She were as unjust as she is fair, should she desire any stronger proof of my Affection. But suddenly my opinion changing, methought I heard Parthenissa say, Presumptuous Artabanes, dost thou esteem me at so low a rate as to think, that nothing which thou hast done to day deserves me? Thou hast lov'd me because I was lovely, the great∣ness of thy Passion renders thy service the less, and thou hast more in∣jur'd me by thinking my beauty needed that defence, than obliged me by assuming it. This reproof, which my distemper made me fancy, came from the Oracle of my Fate, had so powerfull an operation, that I cry'd out; Yes Madam, I acknowledge your reprehension to be as just as my presumption is great, and I am now so sensible of my Crime, that if you do not speedily pardon it, I will revenge you upon the miserable Artaba∣nes; 'tis but letting these wounds weep blood until their source be dry; so Death more pitiful than you, will make my punishment the way unto my quiet. These words spake in a high tone, made Symander almost as frantick as my distempers had me; for being ignorant of the cause, he con∣cluded the height of my Fever made me rave, and fearing lest I should put my words in practice, he ran to the Bed's side, and flinging open the Curtains, besought me in tears, not to make my self the means to in∣crease a danger, which of it self was but too desparate: This action of his put me out of that deep melancholly my Love and disorder had led me into; and turning from him with a great sigh, I reply'd, Alas, Syman∣der, thou wouldst indeed think my condition desparate, if I assur'd thee my wounds were the least torment that I suffer. Sir, said the faithful Ser∣vant,

if I thought so, let your torment be never so high, mine would be equal to it. I will then conceal it from thee, I reply'd, for I love thee too well to load thee with an unncessary grief, the weight whereof is such, that I should think it a crime to wish it on my greatest Enemy. Ah! Sir (he answered) give not my a••••••ction for you so ill return as to make it render me uncapable of serving you: It may be, when I know the cause of your grief, I may find out a remedy, my riper years may know what yours have not attained unto, and if the sacrificing of so poor a thing as my life can any way contribute to your quiet, I shall think it glo∣riously bestowed. His discretion and fidelity, made me disclose my Pas∣sion, having first confin'd him to an inviolable secresie, by all those Pro∣testations which might positively do it. As soon as I had acquainted him with this secret, I perceiv'd a visible alteration in his countenance, as if the knowledge of this disease gave him an assurance of the cure; and that his words might do what his looks had, he immediately told me: if your recovery, Sir, of the wound you received from Ambixules were as certain as of that Love has given you, my joy would be then as great, as now my apprehension is: for I am confident your virtue and merit, will obtain her affection, or your judgement, and resentment will prove your cure. Dost thou think, said I, may Passion has already so dethron'd my reason, as to credit what without any thou assurest me of? but allow I were blest with perfections as great as thou canst fancy, yet compar'd with hers, they would onely serve but as their foile, and consequently, the more her perfections are disclos'd, the more it would bring an acces∣sion to my now cause of adoring them, were that capable of any: other Lovers may hope by a resemblance in merit, to create one in Love, but the object of mine is so peculiar in her Prerogative, that what others drive from Sympathy, I must from Mercy: and to expect my Judgement should recover me, were the same as to expect what gives the wound should cure it too; since judgement acts in me, what fancy doth in others, and finds more reason for my slavery than I can find to decline it: to hope too for liberty by resentment, were a folly onely fit for her pity: the Mariner that is going to be shipwrackt, may as justly hope by quarrel∣ling with the winds to free himself, as I, by electing the same course, may expect a resembling event: Alas her eyes are my destiny, and 'tis not my will, but they that govern me; yet were I at my own dispose, I would not alter my condition; for the contemplation of her Beauty, though she prove cruel, is more Transcendent felicity than others derive from fruition; so that thy advice must not be how to fly, but how to conquer. To which he answer'd, Is there then no Mean to be expected in your Fortune? None (said I) you take a way which looks as if you shun'd your end; for can you think, while you contribute to your sickness you advance your Love? No, but the contrary, for this disorder not onely deprives you of your good Meen, but of time to Court the fair Parthenissa in, and if you have Rivals (as sure such Beauty cannot but create you some) what happy opportunity do you present them? Besides, if you are so negligent of your health, the want of that will make you un∣capable of what you need not apprehend on any other score. Ah! Si∣mander (I cry'd out) thou speakest of a felicity fitter for my desires than expectation; but why dost thou flatter my hopes with joyes that will ever be notional, and dost like Dreams, which making me believe any airy happiness, please me for a moment, but when I wake again, I pay with all real torments an imaginary Heaven, Truly Sir (reply'd Si∣mander)

I have always esteem'd despair as great a Crime as presumption, and must therefore beg you, as Parthenissa's perfections keep you from being guilty of the last of these, so let your own secure you from the first. After he had spoken this, he was silent a while, and then he thus proceeded: I have, Sir, always observed, that interessed parties, whatever the business is, are the unfittest to conclude, especially in the affairs of Love, where Mode∣sty has so much dominion; and therefore, if a third person were employ∣ed, whose secresie and judgement were equally unquestionable, I think it would much contribute to your design, especially if it were one of the same Sex, and therefore (Sir) your sister the Princess Lindadory, if she could be engag'd, 'twould turn my hopes of your success into a cer∣tainty, the opportunities she may obtain may be denied to you, and she may suddenly procure from Parthenissa a Declaration, which nothing but sufferings and time can obtain by you. This advice I so well approved of that I commanded him immediately to put it in practice, and though he perswaded me by many motives to defer it till the morning, yet my im∣patience was more prevalent with him, than his reasons were with me. As soon as he had brought Lindadory to me, and that she was set on the Bed-side, I took her by the hand, and having prest it between mine, I look'd upon her stedfastly, and with a deep sigh, askt her, Do you love me sister? Is the poor Artabanes's life of any concernment to you? to which she answer'd, If I thought Brother you askt this question as doubt∣ing it, my trouble would be as great as my affection: Dear sister (I reply'd) this proceeds not from my doubt, but to hear my joy repeated, for the state I am now in is so sad, that I am forc'd to summon all my felicities, to keep me from despair; the cause of it is, that I am in Love, and the object of mine is Parthenissa, who to see, and not to have a Passion for, were as high a miracle as is her Beauty; and though she prove cruel, yet her hatred could not be a torment greater than my folly, should I for that decline adoring her. Thus you see clearly your Artabanes's condition, and now do not so much wrong it, as to think I make it worse than it is, for if I could, it would not be so great a torment. I will not so much abuse your patience (said Artabanes to Callimachus) as to relate every particular circumstance of this Story; it shall suffice I tell you, Linda∣dory, who lov'd me perfectly, and knew my disposition so, did not op∣pose that which was my desire, especially being grounded, as she confest, on so much reason and justice; and therefore we then resolv'd, that she should be my Agent and Confident, and that the next day she should visit Parthenissa (as sometimes she us'd to do) and carry a Letter to her, which I then writ, but with much difficulty, both in respect of the pain my wounds gave me, and procuring Lindadorys and Simanders permission, who were apprehensive, that sitting up (though in my bed) would prove prejudicial to me, but having vow'd to them not to do it, would prove much more so, I had the liberty to write these words:

ARTABANES to the Princess PARTHENISSA.

IF by the loss of the greatest part of my Blood, I have discover'd a Pas∣sion, which offends the fair Parthenissa, I am ready to shed the residue of it to appease her; but before I obey a Sentence, I cannot more appre∣hend than I will readily execute; I must beg her to believe that the wounds I have received from her Beauty, are far more dangerous than those I have received for it; 'Tis Madam, at the last extremity, that I make my pen assure you of a Truth which my fainting forc'd me to disclose; and which I confess, should rather be employ'd to implore your Pardon than repeat my Crime: But I am necessitated to extremes, and by so resolute a confession, induce you to Pardon a Passion whose greatness you cannot doubt, since I cannot conceal it: or else condemn the Possessor of it: if you chuse to put your Iustice in practice, I am resolv'd to become its executioner by declining a recovery of these wounds Ambixules has given me, that the World may believe I dyed for the Fair Parthenissa, and not by her. But if she elect to make use of her mercy, she will preserve a flame which has no fault, but the ambition of as∣piring so high.

The success which my sister assured me of, whether to create my be∣lief, or to acquaint me with hers, made me after her departure take some rest, though mine was often interrupted through different dreams; but no sooner the day appear'd, which I did so long for, than I did as much so, that it had been ended. I could never imagine till then, that impa∣tience was so great a deluder, for mine forc'd me to think it the longest day that ever I had seen, though it were but the first of the spring: but the occasion which made it seem so tedious, was, that, at night Lindadory had promised to bring my definitive Sentence. At last the so much desired hour arrived, and immediately after, my sister, who was no soner come into my Chamber, than I endeavoured to learn in her coun∣tenance her success: But Sillaces, who could not contribute to his health, by seeing the condition of mine, came then to give me a visit, whose company before was ever as pleasing, as at that instant it was the con∣trary: Love having so much of meanness in it, as to make us prefer our own interest before our friends. But lest that impatience I was then in, should yet seem to transport me, I must tell you something of the gene∣rous Sillaces, who has been so great an Actor in the ensuing Story. He is Prince of Tabienv, and of an Extraction as famous for Antiquity as Virtue: If Fortune had been as prodigal to him as Nature, he had long since been possessor of Lindadory, and enjoyed a perfect happiness: But his chiefest Riches consisting in that which the Old think to be one∣ly the Ornament, though it be in effect the Essential part of Men; and my Father who esteemed a virtuous person without Riches fitter for his Acquaintance than Alliance, deny'd Sillaces my Sister. His Passion for Lindadory was till then unknown to me, and that which gave me the first suspition of it, was, the alteration I perceiv'd in both their counte∣nances that night, when he so unhappily came in to disturb us: I believe he easily found by our silence, that his company was not so pleasing as

it us'd to be, which he since told me he attributed to some light I had discover'd of his Passion, not that he fear'd he would oppose it, but that I was offended to learn it of any but himself. As soon as he had taken up this opinion, he concluded himself fit company for nothing but his thoughts, and therefore, immediately withdrew to entertain them, lea∣ving me at liberty to do the same with Lindadory: To whom I abrupt∣ly said with all the impatiencies of Love, Fear, and Hope, Dear Sister, What must your Artabanes expect? Have you receiv'd any return, which may build my hope on Justice? If you have not, I should be as cruel to my self as Parthenissa is to me, if I endeavoured to preserve a life she is so intent to destroy: But if you bring me comforts, you will raise joy un∣to a height it never until now attain'd unto. Brother, she reply'd, I find my waiting on Parthenissa, that her reserv'dness is proportionate to all her other perfections, and consequently the procuring so much as I have done, assures me, if all your Felicity consists in the obtaining her Favour, you are not far from your desires. This I speak to stay your longing, for now I must tell you, I never (till your interest ingag'd me) so nar∣rowly obser'vd your Mistris; but in this short while I have discover'd so many fresh Graces in her, and those shine so clearly, that not onely I do extoll your choice, but wish my Sex were chang'd, that I might be your Rival: For the Beauty of her Mind equals, if not transcends that of her Body, and what my compliance yesterday approv'd in you, this day my Reason does. Dear Sister (said I, interrupting her) though I am ravisht with this description of Parthenissa, how imperfect soever it be, yet I must deprive my self awhile of the lesser happiness, and beg to learn the greater, which is to know, if for this pleasing joy you put me in, I am not more indebted to your kindness than hers? This you must tell me truly, for you cannot long deceive me; and if once I find you do, by all that's holy, I'll take so severe a revenge upon my self, you cannot but re∣pent you were the cause of it; for deprivation of hope is the highest misery but deprivation of possession: Therefore, Dear Lindadory, I con∣jure you by your affections, tell me really what interest I have in the Felicity before you tell me what the Felicity is; for I have none; the knowledge how great the Blessing is, will but proportionately increase the Torment of being deny'd it; and if I have any, you are too cruel thus long to keep me in suspence. My indiscretion (said he) would equal your impatience, should I praise a happiness you so justly ambition, if I knew you should ne'r possess it; but since you enjoyn me so powerfully to tell you what I have done, you shall first learn, I have acquainted Parthenissa that you love her, but with a Passion as far above all others, as the Beauty is which creates it: and to confirm her in that belief, I presented her with your Letter, which she made some scruples to receive, but my importunities supprest them; that at last she read it; and then told me, I have so little title both to the perfections, and the power your Brother ascribes unto me; that I receive them rather for Civilities than Truths. Oh gods! (I cry'd out, interrupting her) can she be ignorant of that which is so visible? Or can so high a virtue be capable of as high a dissimulation? Brother (said Lindadory) your impatience makes you practice in your self what you but now condemn in me. Can you blame (I reply'd) so necessary an interruption? Shall Modesty be esteem'd a greater virtue than Justice? Or are they inconsistant together? But I be∣seech you proceed, and grant me now your pardon, for which, I will en∣gage my self not a second time to need it. I had no small trouble (said

Lindadory) to make her confess she believ'd your affection was such as you describ'd it, but the labor was far more difficult to procure from her any thing to you, that might give you that assurance. But (she continu'd) to obey your injunction, I will not give you all the particulars by re∣tail, knowing, that to relate the means, is onely pleasing but as it con∣duces to the end; which is, that I have brought you a Letter from Par∣thenissa. Ah Sister! (said I, starting up) How many obligations have you contracted in this one? then calling for a Lamp, after having a thousand times kist, and idolatriz'd the fair Character, I read these ensuing words:

PARTHENISSA to the Prince ARTABANES.

IF by a loss of the greatest part of your Blood, you have discover'd that which was an offence, you have discover'd too that which is partly the re∣paration; since what acquainted me with the fault, acquainted me with the punishment of it; and if I have now any resentments, they will sooner be satisfied by your preserving than by your shedding that which is left.

Alas, (said I, having ended reading) I may with much greater Justice say of this Letter, that it has more of Civility than Affection, then she of mine, that it had more Civility than Truth. Then letting my self fall in∣to my bed again, I continued; Unfortunate Artabanes, thou art yet as miserable as ever; for here is not a enough kindness to make thee live, nor cruelty to make thee dye. I now perceive there may be cruelty in not being cruel enough; that a little kindness may be a great cruely, and that suspension may be so order'd, that it may prove as great a misery as deprivation. If your complaint were just (said Lindadory) I should be so far from condemning, that I should participate with you in it. Take heed Artabanes, lest you offend the gods; and that by not valuing this high favour, you thereby provoke them to recall it. If every day you make an equall progress to this, believe me, the wound of your mind will be sooner cur'd than that of your body: Remember, if she were as soon obtain'd as askt, that might in the future trouble you as much, as the fear of the contrary does at present: Since 'tis in Love as in War, where the greater the difficulty is in the success, the greater is both the sa∣tisfaction and Glory of it. If (said I) Parthenissa's perfections needed a foil to set them off, there might be some reason in what you think has so much. But in the possession of Parthenissa, all joyes are included, and not one without it, so that nothing but the end here can be term'd Fe∣licity. I must confess, that in meaner Affections so much Nourishment as this would preserve Hope from Death, but where the cause of the Love, and the Love it self is so infinite, if all things else be not resembling, my sufferings must: The wanting of never so little less then what will of ne∣cessity suffice, is as bad as if all were wanting; as well in then Food of the Mind as of the Body; therefore to be kind, and not kind enough, does too deservedly lose that name and operation: You must not therefore mea∣sure my condition at the same rate with other Lovers, but proportionate∣ly to the Beauty I adore, and then you will conclude as right as now you do the contrary. All the Arguments Lindadory could use, were not of sufficient force to moderate my despair; me-thought Parthenissa's Letter had so much of indifferency in it, that I could not have too much of sor∣row

for it; and that which prov'd no small accession to mine, was my sisters confession, how difficult it was to obtain so little, which too I re∣ceiv'd rather from her importunity than Parthenissa's favour. These, and ••any such reasons, which my despair furnish'd me withal, created in me ••belief, that it were to be cruel to my self, not to die of those wounds which were such, that they made the way to Death far easier than to recovery, and consequently it had been a weakness equal to the punishment would have attended it, if when the means to end all miseries was easie, and the way to begin miseries was as difficult as to persevere in them, I should have declin'd the first to embrace the last; in which resolve my Body so well seconded my Mind, that my Fever so increast all that night, as the next day, when my sister came to visit me, I was so near losing my life, it had almost cost her her own, for she fell into divers fits of swounding, and the last was of so long a duration, that Symander, who stood by, imagin'd she had led me the way to death; but when she was recover'd from her seeming one, she begg'd me with a throng of sighs and tears, not to cast my self a∣way, out of an imagination I was miserable, when really I was otherwise, which if I would give her a little time to evince, I should be assur'd it from Parthenissa. Ah! sister (I reply'd) if you could perform what you say, my recovery would be as certain and speedy as my death will be without it, Dear Brother (said Lindadory) give me but one days respite, and if I do not satisfie my engagement, inflict on me what punishment you please, and I will willingly endure it. All the penance (I reply'd) which I will impose on you, if you prevail not, is, That you will give me leave to die, for then you cannot more oppose my doing so, then my condition will require it. While we were in this discourse, one of my sisters servants came and acquainted her, that Parthenissa was come to give her a visit: Lindadory turning to∣wards me, told me softly, receive this as an earnest from the gods of their fu∣ture blessing, who have doubtless sent her hither purposely to contract the time of your suspension: Immediately after she went to her Chamber, where Parthenissa was, who perceiving by my sisters eyes, as well as coun∣tenance, that some grief sat upon her heart, she told her, Madam, the place from whence you now came, and the effect of some great sorrow, which is too visible in your face, makes me apprehend something of danger in your brother. Would it might please the gods (reply'd Lindadory) that you would as soon apply the remedy to my grief, as you have found out the oc∣casion of it, which if you will be but resembling to your power, you may perform as easily as desire; for my brothers danger is the cause of that ef∣fect you seem somewhat concerned in, for though those wounds Ambixules gave him are very dangerous, yet those you have given him are much more so, and creates his and my greatest apprehension: Therefore, Madam, con∣sider the ruinous estate he's in without the felicity of your Favour, and re∣ceive this as a certain truth, that unless you assure him of it now, it will be too late to do it hereafter: Give I beseech you to my prayers and his con∣dition, what I am confident you would hereafter to his services, if he could live to pay you them, and then gratitude will act in him what hope would. Lidadory's reason, and the sad extremity I was in, furnish'd her with so many arguments, both to move Parthenissa's judgment and pity, that at last, with much difficulty, she acknowledg'd never to have had a higher esteem for any than for me, and her inclinations wereof such a quality, that by my services and fidelity, I might in time procure no unfruitful return of them. This declaration was as pleasing to Lindadory as my recovery; for indeed it was in effect the same thing; she begg'd her therefore to give

me a visit, and assure me of what she had then said. Parthenissa would have left that employment to Lindadory, but she excus'd herself, by alledg∣ing it would be too good news to be credited from any but herself; ad∣ding further, that she might perform a visit of that high concernment, with so much secrecy, that none could ever discover it, there being a back-stairs, which went out of her Chamber into mine, where no company then was (least it might interrupt my rest) and I am the more pressing in it (con∣tinu'd Lindadory) not onely as it will be the efficient cause of his preser∣vation, but that seeing him in the forlorn condition he is in, you may ne∣ver hereafter quarrel with your modesty for condescending to that now, which if any longer delay'd, would prove ineffectual. Then without so much as seeming to suspect a refusal, she took her by the hand, and having led her into my Chamber, she opened the Courtain and told me, Bro∣ther, I here present you with the rarest Physitian in all Asia, whose skill I believe your very sight will convince you of. I could not fancy that this rare Physitian was Parthenissa, and knowing all others disability in my sickness, I did not so much as turn my eyes that way, but being some∣what offended, that she who knew so well the nature of my disease, should be so mistaken in the means of my cure, I reply'd, Sister I per∣ceive, that Parthenissa has rejected your Prayers, and that you have as a last Essay, brought this Physitian to practice on me as on a lost Patient; but 'tis in vain; I that feel the power of her Beauty will never so much wrong the effects of it, as to believe any can cure my wounds but she that made them: let me therefore desire you to implore this last favor from her, that before I die, she would look upon the miserable Artabanes, and give me leave once again to see that Beauty the cruel (but fair) cause of my Martyrdome, which I have so much reason to hate, and yet have more not to do it; that she may hear how zealous I'll pray for the preservation of my murderer, and that she may live in joyes as great as she has the pow∣er to confer on me. These sad words had a powerfull influence on Lin∣dadory, who fancying it a sin to jest so cruelly, begg'd me to turn about with such earnestness, that at last I did: but great gods! How was I surpriz'd? My amazment was such, that joy had lik'd to have perform'd what grief but begun. Lindadory's raillery, and this surprize was of ve∣ry much use to Parthenissa, who was so confus'd when she consider'd the action she had undertaken; that though the time of her silence was long, yet (as she told me often since) she was as long before she was able to speak to me; but perceiving I was at least in an equal perplexity, that did somewhat assure her; and then approaching to my Beds-side, she told me, I am come to know (Artabanes) whether the power you said I had over you was a Civility or a Truth? but I too visibly perceive it is one∣ly the first, or else your recovery before now had assur'd me the con∣trary. Ah! Madam (said I) reproach me not the crime you your self make me commit; for 'twas not your commands alone could make me live, but something added to them, which I thought fitter and easier for you to imagine than I to name; but your not taking notice of it; alass, did to too much, and being depriv'd of my hopes, I resolv'd under an appea∣rance of cruelty, to be merciful unto my self, and by yielding to one death, to free my self from a thousand▪ Neither, Madam, can I think you will be offended at that Election, since by disobeying you once, I render my self for ever uncapable of doing so again, but by my obedince, ei∣ther your cruelty must have been as great as your Beauty, or my suffer∣ings would have far more troubl'd you, then this one breach of your

commands. I perceive (reply'd Parthenissa) that you counterfeit an ig∣norance onely to extort a knowledge, which is fitter for my blushes to as∣sure you than my words; but to evidence how great a power the Princess Lindadory has over me, I do not only command you to live, but shall judge of your passion by your obedience, and reward it so too. Alas, Madam (I reply'd) must I then derive my Felicity from a third person? and must the Means lessen the End? To which Parthenissa presently an∣swer'd, Your scruples are much greater than their cause, which intirely to remove, I conjure you endeavour Recovery, which effected, I am con∣fident, I shall soon give that to your Merit, which I now say, I do to your Sisters Commands. If (I reply'd) I must expect that Blessing by that Ti∣tle onely, from this moment I renounce all hope of it, and therefore if you are not resolv'd of your self to confer it on me, I beseech you let me dye, otherwise you may be cruel, in thinking not to be so. Madam (said Lindadora) I beg you to receive these importunate effects, as coming from a noble Cause, a Love so perfect, that nothing but a retribution, which is so, can confer on it any quiet; and since you have thus far proceed∣ed, let not Words divert you, when the Action does not, but by assuring him you will be favourable, preserve a life which I dare justify, is wholly yours, and as wholly depends upon what you shall now speak. I know not (reply'd Parthenissa, pulling down her Veil to conceal her Blushes) what to say, but if what I have already spoken, do not satisfy, what you are pleas'd to undertake, I will confirm. Divine Parthenissa (said I, print∣ing my burning Lips upon her Hand) I desire no more, and may Torments equal to your Hate (if such could be found out) fall on me, if ever passi∣on was so pure as mine, or shall prove so constant. After a thousand as∣surances of my Joy and Fidelity, we heard Moneses knock at the door, which occasion'd Parthenissa, and Lindadory to retire softly the same way they came; for we thought it not fit he should then know any thing of our affairs. As soon as they were gone, he came in, and having enquired of my health (which he found to be somewhat better'd) he went away again. In brief, my speedy recovery being enjoyn'd me, as an evincement of the greatness of my Flame, I was so willing to embrace any thing might ad∣vance it, that in a short time my wounds were fully heal'd, and then eve∣ry day I gave the fair Parthenissa so many new confirmations of my Passi∣on, that at last she assur'd me of hers. I can truly affirm, never two Hearts were more perfectly united, than ours. And if at any time so many per∣fections made my Desires rebel against my Reason, she immediately supprest them with Reason; which was not onely an argument of the vastness of her wit, but of the proportionate power she had over me. But why do I name the Felicities we possest in those glorious days, when they were so short, that the time that I have been telling you of them, seems to me to be longer than they themselves were; and when they do but serve to add unto miseries, which are but too great already, and are any other way uncapable of accession. Fortune, which has been always ingenious to persecute me, no sooner acquainted me with the blessing of Parthe∣nissa's Conversation then she sever'd me from it: For there happened a difference betwixt Arsaces and Artabazus the King of Armenia, concern∣ing the bounds of their Kingdoms; and as it is ordinary amongst Mo∣narchs, which are above the Laws, to have immediate recourse to their Swords, and make them both plead, and determine their dispute; so did they, and by it engag'd all the Gallantry of both their Kingdoms. I was ambitious to do something that might give me an interest in Parthe∣nissa

by my Actions, and therefore resolved to undertake the Voyage; I waited on her, to acquaint her with my design, and found her alone in her Cabinet (as she confest to me afterwards) preparing Arguments to divert me from that War, which she apprehended my Honor would engage me in; but I interrupted her thoughts by telling her, Madam, the joy of your Affection makes these Wars (the way to Glory) trouble∣some; for Love delights in none but what it self creates. Truly Artabanes (she said) you can shew me no greater, nor pleasanter effects of your Flame, than in observing what you now speak, since in this one action we give and receive assurances of each others passion; for I have sufficient proofs of yours, when your Honour cannot vanquish your Love, and when you care not to satisfy the World, so I be pleas'd: And you of mine, when the highest condition, (that of your Glory) cannot be of sufficient force to make your absence tollerable. Alas, Madam (I re∣ply'd) how miserable am I then? that must plead your Commands, and make use of Arguments, which if they prevail, banish me from my Feli∣city, and if they do not, make me unworthy of it: But since inevitably I must fall into one of these misfortunes, I had rather embrace the first, which though it make me perfectly wretched, yet 'twill extenuate your choice unto the World, by evincing that the Man you elected to ho∣nour with your Affection, valued not the hazarding of his life to me∣rit it; and since, to the further manifestation of that Truth, he dare ex∣pose himself to the miseries of absence, who can suspect he will decline any other proof of it? I now perceive (said she) Artabanes, that you onely hitherto pretended a perfect Love; for one that is so, confines it self to the Object loved, and makes the satisfying of it, it's onely end: Alas, had I stood upon these Niceties, and not more consider'd you than the World, you had never taken my Heart by Assault, but by Siege. To which I reply'd: 'Tis not onely, Madam, to please the World, but to establish my Felicity in the Future: for this War will every day create new occasions for my Rivals to purchase Glory, and knowing your Ju∣stice, to be equal to your other Perfections; I would not by my idleness provoke yours so much to make me miserable; But then, it may be you will answer, your inclination leads you to honour me with your esteem, more than any other; but I beseech you, Madam, consider how weak a Title that will appear, when manifested Vertue shall come in competi∣tion with it? No, fair Parthenissa, give me leave to act upon this Stage, where I will do such things, that if Merit could claim an interest in you, you should be mine by right, and I will no longer own the great opi∣nion you have of me to your Goodness, but your Justice. Cruel Ar∣tabanes (said Parthenissa) have all the Vows of Love wrought so little on your belief, as to think it possible, I can be any man's but yours? And that which you even now stil'd Justice in me, would be inconstancy and perjury: besides, these high things which you propound unto your self, cannot be attain'd without resembling dangers, and should you miscar∣ry in them (as the events of War are blind and uncertain) how mise∣rable would my condition be? when the universal knowledge of your Virtue, will so drown all men in Grief, that those which should afford me any Consolation, will need it themselves: and every Man will be a fresh Object to renew my Sorrow: Besides, what you would so hazardously court and sollicite, is of so speculative and airy a quality, that neither the simplest, nor the wisest Soldier in the Army, would now exchange con∣ditions with the famous Alexander, the great ingrosser of it. That,

Madam, I reply'd, would rather evin••e a want of Virtue in the Living, than the Dead: so perhaps, many Women now would not change con∣dition with the excellent Lucretia, and yet that does not prove but hers is more to be ambition'd. To contract my Relation, I made use of so many arguments, that at last she resign'd the Field, but I perceiv'd it was with much reluctancy, for she said, How just a cause have I to com∣plain, that either my affection is not less, which might render your de∣parture supportable, or that being so great, I cannot have proportionate Arguments to divert your Design. But believe me, though my Judge∣ment be convinc'd, it is fit for you to undertake; yet my Love will never be so. Ah Madam (said I) how kind, and how cruel are those words, for your Love transcending your Judgement, how vast an evincement is that of its being so; and on the other side, how cruel is the purchase of that Felicity, by rendring your Love (the greatest of my blessings) now the greatest of my troubles. After I had done speaking, she lean'd her Cheek upon her Hand, and having thought a while, she lookt on me sted∣fastly, with Tears running from her fair Eyes, and told me with a lan∣guishing voice, Artabanes, since you are resolv'd to go, I conjure you by your Passion, remember that we have exchang'd our Hearts, and that lo∣ving Parthenissa, as you say, more than your self, evince it, by having more care of her Heart, than if it were your own. And since you will allow nothing to surpass your Affection; yet at least allow mine to be equal to it, and then consider those Torments my death would be to you, and be not too prodigal of that life, which if lost, must involve me in resem∣bling ones. These Words and Tears were so moving, that I held it ra∣ther a Duty, than a Weakness, to accompany her in the latter, which she perceiving, began to ask me forgiveness, by having made me erre by her example, and then went to a little Cabinet in her Closet, where she took out her Picture, which she presented me, and I vow'd to wear, as long as that other, I could not but carry about me whilst I did my Heart. If you have ever resented the pleasing Flames of Love, you may then partly guess how cruel this separation was; otherwise, your imagi∣nation will be as far short of apprehending, as I am of expressing it. But this being nothing essential to our story, I will pass it over, by telling you, that Pacorus, eldest Son to the King, was General of the Army, but my Father had the Superintendency of all: his deep experience giving him that Honour, with as little Dispute as Envy. The Prince was ac∣company'd by his Brother Phraates, and all other Great Men of the Em∣pire, amongst whom, Surena was the chiefest, either for Person, Wit, Estate, or Power, but of an Humour so uncontroulable, that it clouded all his other Virtues. These Troops were generally the gallantest, and best fitted, of any I ever yet beheld; and in my opinion, the Roman Legions were as far short of them, as they excell'd all others. After the Army was in a moving posture, Moneses led the Body of it, by easy marches, towards Miramnes, a strong Town, which the Armenians had newly besieg'd with 50000 Foot, and 10000 Horse, the King being there in person. Pacorus remain'd at Court ten days after, to receive his Instru∣ctions, and by that time Moneses was within three days march of the Ene∣my, the Prince and all his Court overtook him, where a Messenger, from the ••overnor of Miramnes, assur'd Pacorus, that if in three weeks he had no relief, it would be too late to send him any. The next morning therefore he took a view of his whole Army, which consisted of near near 40000 Foot, and 15000 Horse, but so much of resolution appear'd

in the Officers and Soldiers looks, that he thought every hour of delay so much time stolen from the Glory of his Triumph. The consequence of this place was such, that immediately a Council of War was summon'd, where after a long Debate, the Result of it was; That the Prince sent a Herald with a Letter, to the King of Armenia, to invite him on the large, and adjoyning, Plains of Arontes, to decide their difference by a Battel, which would end the War, and the Miseries that inevitably would be a consequence of it. Artabazus having consulted with the Chief Officers of his Army, return'd this Answer,

ARTABAZVS King of Armenia, to PA∣CORVS, Prince of the Parthians.

The same Consideration which invites you to decide our Quarrel by a Bat∣tel, moves me to accept it, and since the Gods are our Iudges, we need not fear Partiality, the justest Sword will be the sharpest, and therefore the Con∣quer'd shall be esteemed guilty, by

ARTABAZVS.

This Answer was no sooner read, but Orders were given to every Chief Officer, to repair to his Charge, and to exhort the Soldiers to per∣form their Duties with Courage and Vigilancy. The next day we dis∣camped, and pitched our Tents in the Plains of Arontes, the Scene of the intended Tragedy. As soon as we were quarter'd, we might per∣ceive the Armenian Army marching down the Hills of Fenistia in exact Order, and camped so, some forty Furlongs from us. By mutual agree∣ment, both Armies rested themselves two days, that they might come the third, unharrast to the Battel. In the mean time, Moneses appointed to every one his Command. The Prince honor'd me with the leading of 2000 Horse, all Voluntiers, and composed of the Youth and Gallantry of Parthia, with whom I resolv'd to act something worthy the high Title of Parthenissa's Servant. At last, the long desired day appear'd, but so Black and Cloudy, that it hardly deserv'd that name, as if the Heavens had put on anticipated Mourning for so many succeeding Funerals. Presently those vast Plains were cover'd with Armed Troops, and the Generals having taken all the advantages the ground would permit, gave the Signal of the Battel: At the first shock, the Field was strew'd with dead Bodies, and such a show'r of Arrows were shot into the Air, that the God's were hin∣der'd from seeing or relieving either party. There were a thousand things perform'd, which did better merit the Sun for Spectator in all his Glory, than those sad and gloomy Clouds. But the Victory which was a long time in suspense, at last seem'd to declare it self on the Armenians side, by the valour of a young Gentleman, who with near 3000 Horse, car∣ried Death to his Enemies, and Victory to his Friends, wheresoever he appear'd. So much Gallantry, I thought, was a fit Object for our Swords, and turning to my friends, I told them so, with this litle addition; Tis too low to imitate those that have done well: Let us be examples to them, to do better, for you see the day is lost, unless recover'd by our Valours; and Victory will now be so precious, it cannot be too dearly courted. They all unanimously approv'd my resolution, and presently I led them

where Artavasdes was, (for so was this young Conqueror call'd) who per∣ceiving our design, and guessing by our Countenance, we were not Men to be slighted, presently rallied all his Soldiers, who were eagerly pursuing the Parthians. By that time he had drawn them up, I charg'd him, telling my companions, I would not invite them to that which I would not be a sharer in: I was so well seconded by those which follow'd me, that after a generous resistance, we broke those victorious Troops, and had the execution of them, as long as they had had it of ours, and I was so far engag'd in the pursuit of this Rout, that at last I perceiv'd the Stan∣dard-Royal, which was guarded by at least 8000 select Men, which was to me rather an invitation to attempt it, than the contrary, but least ma∣ny might have been of a different principle, I told my Troop-Compani∣ons, 'tis true, their number surpasses ours, but you have just now learn'd, that Victory is won by Virtue, not by Multitudes; you have done things which will not be believ'd, but by some such powerful Witness: for to our own Glory (but to our Countreys shame) we are not onely the Actors, but almost the onely Spectators, and as your Valours have no limits, let your success be resembling. By one general Acclamation, they pro∣tested they would follow me to Death or Victory; I gave them no time to cool, but by a successful Charge, I made a breach for them to enter; they lost not the occasion, but with Vigor and Resolution improv'd it. As we had almost effected our design, the same Artavasdes, who had done such noble Actions in the beginning of the Battel, and was beaten by his Mens Fears, not his own, (for they had carried him away in the Throng) rallied again some of his resolutest Troops, and was come with them to re∣lieve the King; which he did with so great fury, that my Men lost all the Glory of their former Actions, by an ignominious flight. I could not believe it at the first, but seeing it was in earnest, I cryed out; 'Tis your Swords, not your Feet must save you, which you may effect by almost your desiring it, for the Enemy are not oblig'd to their Valours for this disorder, but your Fears: If you doubt this Truth, do but turn your Fa∣ces, and their Flight will assure you it. But when I perceiv'd they were as deaf to me, as to their Honors, I told some which were running by me: Is it thus then that you perform your engagement of following me to Death or Victory? I will never live to see your shame, nor to participate with you in it: Assure the Prince and my Father, I will sell my life so handsomely, that it shall neither disgrace my Countrey nor my Bloud. Having so said, I thrust my self into the midst of the Enemy, with a re∣solution to dye, and invoking the fair Name of Parthenissa, my Rage made me do things, which my Courage onely, could not have perform'd for I made a Lane through the thickest Troops, and my blows were so hap∣pily directed, that wheresoever they did light once, they needed not to do so a second time. Many of those which fled, hearing my last words, turn'd about to know what I would do, but when they saw my resolu∣tion, and the unexpected success which attended it, many who were gal∣lant, found my designe so much so, that they returned to share in it, and others who perceiv'd that those which thought to preserve their Lives, did lose them, and that he which indeavour'd to lose his, did preserve it, the same cause which made them decline the Fight, made them return to it. I must confess, I was as much surpriz'd, as pleas'd, when I found my self so well followed; I imputed it to the invocation of Parthenissa, and was assur'd, that the same power which hath occasioned the great∣er change, which was, to make those that fled, to fight again; would

also perform the lesser, which was, to make those that return'd to fight, overcome an enemy they had so lately worsted. Whilst this heat lasted, we engag'd our selves so far, that Fear produced the effects of Courage, there being no safety but in Victory, so that I had much ado to credit my Eyes, the last testimony of my companions valour, having quite de∣faced the former of their want of it: At last I perceived one, who by the care they all shew'd, of his preservation, I resolv'd was the King, which made me cry out, There, fellow Soldiers, there is that which will make the conclusion of the day more Glorious than the Progress, and will both fi∣nish our dangers, and reward them too. They were so sensible of what I said, that their valours gave an undeniable proof of their being so; and the greedy desires I had to merit the Title of Parthenissa's Servant, made me address my designs onely at the King: concluding, all consist∣ed in the taking of him; and though Nature had deny'd me a Crown, yet by my Courage, to present one to Parthenissa, I knew would be more pleasing to her generous disposition, which much more esteemed the effects of Virtue, than those of Fortune, or Birth: To be short, after I had received some Wounds, which were rather marks of Honour, than Danger, and after Revolutions and Confusions, which were deriv'd from the mingling amongst us, of another King of Armenia, at least, one ex∣ceeding like the first, in his Armour and Furniture, as well as by the Horse he rid on, and disresembling him in nothing, but what more pregnantly confirm'd me, he was the real Artabazus, since the highest Valour was fit∣test for the highest Title; I dismounted this second Commer, whereby the first found and made opportunity of escaping, which the last no sooner observed, than he told me, Generous Enemy, though my Body is at your Mercy, my Liberty is not, this Sword, more kind than Fortune, will soon ease me of all the miseries this day hath involv'd me in, unless you will grant me one condition, which if you do not, I will deprive you of all those advantages you do pretend unto by my Captivity; It is, that be∣ing a Prince, I may not be disarm'd, nor yield my self a prisoner to any but your Prince. I thought it unjust, to destroy a Valour as high as the Title of him that possest it, and when my Enemy was too much in my power to remember he had been my Enemy, and yet I esteem'd it reason∣able, that those who had been my companions in Action, should be the like in Advice. I found all their opinions proportionate to my own, which I inform'd him of, in such submissive terms, that he assur'd us, Fate had in some sort repaired his Misfortunes, that being destin'd by his, to be a prisoner, he had fallen into hands, which knew the respects due unto his quality. 'Twas observable, that in the taking of this prisoner, it seem'd we had taken the Hopes of all his Party, at least depriv'd them of any, but by flight, which they so universally began, and continued, that they gave us more trouble to kill, than to break them. At the end of the ex∣ecution, I found Pacorus with a joy in his Countenance, as great as his success, he immediately ran to me, and after a thousand imbraces assur'd me, that the King owed his Crown, and he himself his Life and Honour to me; and that the Obligations were such, that it would be a Crime as great, to hope the requiting of them, as the misfortune of the incapacity of doing it: many other expressions of his Favour, he honour'd me with, which I have now as absolutely forgotten, as I was then unworthy of them. But I remember, I besought him to place those high Civilities, ra∣ther upon my Companions than Me, as being an act of greater Justice, and consequently more proportionate to his Inclination: But Sir (I con∣tinued)

the gods have not onely favour'd your Arms, by an entire de∣feat of your Enemies, but by furnishing us with the Power of Present∣ing you with the most considerable of them, as well for Title as Vertue. I then presented him with our Prisoner, at which, though his Joy were very great, yet it was very short of my amazement suddenly after, when the imagin'd King pulling off his Helmet, discover'd a Face so full of Beauty and Courage, equally mingled, that it produc'd in all of us, the same effect it had in me, and a silence too as general; which he begg'd a continuance of, and which the Prince having enjoyn'd, he address'd him∣self unto him in these terms. Sir, there is not one of the Armenians this day but I, that hath not just occasion to complain against Fortune, since in so publick a calamity, she has yet furnisht me with means to serve my King, for I am not what I feign'd I was, but by seeming to be a King, I preserv'd one. I know this Declaration doth surprize and incense ma∣ny, but the action is too glorious to be conceal'd: I serv'd Artabazus in the beginning of the Battel, by force, but when Artabanes Sword prov'd too powerful to be resisted (for those were his very words) I then by po∣licy endeavour'd to perform, that which was deny'd me by the other. My Joy had been more perfect, had my first design succeeded, but yet I am not devested of all, since the last did: the end being still the same, though the way be not: Some for this (Sir) might beg your pardon, but I will not, for that were to confess a fault, where there is none, neither will I so much as expect my Life at your hands; since that were to act with the hope of something besides serving my King, which was that I onely ambition'd. No, generous Pacorus, consider that I deprived you of a King to grace your Triumph, and put in practice what the consideration of that loss inspires you with, so you will oblige your self, by sacrificing to your Re∣sentments, one that has so highly injur'd you, and yet as highly glories therein, and you will oblige me, by making me a Martyr to my Duty and my Honour. The apprehension I had, lest this Confident (though generous) Speech of Artavasdes (for that was his name) might invite Pacorus, to confer on him his desires, made me tell him, Sir, I do not find that you have occasion to be offended at this change; for 'tis not the Name of King, that can make us ever apprehend a contrary success to that the gods have given you this day, but Virtue and Gallantry, and we have found so much of both, in this Gentleman, that I believe the Ar∣menians have suffer'd a greater loss, than if we had taken their King; for his Perfections transcend that Title, and 'tis more worthy of your Arms to take the gallantest, than the greatest of your Enemies: And, Sir, to evince, I do not speak this, to raise the value of the Present, my Friends and I have offer'd you, I humbly beg Artavasdes Life, which we shall not only receive as a reward above the services we do this day pay you, but above all we can ever; for besides the preserving of so generous an example for all Men to imitate, 'twould be an ill president, to see a Prince punish a Subject for being faithful to his King. Pacorus, who truly was generous, told me; If any thing could make me offended with Artabanes, 'twould be this unnecessary interceding; for the services you have render'd me, will drown under the name of Gratitude to you, that good usage my inclination leads me to confer on the generous Artavasdes but I here publiquely profess, that the Life I give him, proceeds from a true sence of his Virtues, which I do not onely value, but admire, and if I may obtain his friendship, I shall esteem it a happier purchase, than that of his Person, or that of his Kings. Then addressing himself to

Artavasdes, he told him; If I were absolute Master of my Actions, I would from this instant restore to you that liberty you have so merito∣riously lost, but being accomptable to Arsaces, I shall beseech you to ac∣company me to him, whether I shall suddenly go, and I am so confident to obtain your freedom, that I dare almost assure you it: Besides, this small time may procure me the happiness of your acquaintance, which I so much value, that if I do obtain it, I shall justly believe 'tis the great∣est advantage I derive from this days success. To this high civility, Arta∣vasdes reply'd; Sir, never till now was I perfectly vanquished, the fortune of War could give you but power over my Body, my Mind being free, retrench'd you from the noblest part of your Victory; now 'tis entire, and you have made me as enamour'd of Life, as I was of Death, since by enjoying the former, I hope to find an occasion to evince my Gratitude to him which gave it me. Many civilities past between them, and after∣wards between Artavasdes and me, whose friendship, though I have ambiti∣on'd with an infinite concern, yet, as he afterwards assur'd me, it could not transcend that, with which he desir'd mine. At the conclusion of these civilities, Moneses came towards us, the care he had of the Army, and of some wounds he receiv'd in the Fight, hindring him from being a Witness of their beginning. But the Prince seeing him coming, went to meet him, and told him so many handsome things of me, that I could not have been more pleas'd to have deserv'd, than I was asham'd to hear them. The next day the Funerals of the Dead were celebrated, and in one general Fire, the Parthian, and Armenian Bodies were reduced to ashes. The season being very ill to prosecute the War, and the num∣bers we had lost, rendring us unable to do it, Pacorus resolv'd to return to Nineveh, whither he commanded me to attend him, that the people (as he said) might see their Deliverer. Artavasdes also waited on him. When we came within twenty furlongs of that great City, Arsaces, and all the Court came to meet the Prince, and congratulate his success. Pa∣corus would needs present me to the King, and expressed so much af∣fection to me, in the relation of that late Battel, that my blushes will not permit me to repeat it, not the civility Arsaces honor'd me with. But all these favours were as so many obstacles, to hinder me from waiting on the fair Parthenissa, which after a thousand importunate Ceremonies, I did. Who can express the vast Felicity this favourable interview did bless me with? the many commendations coming from that fair Mouth; those Raptures of Joy for my safe return, or those Holy Vows of Constancy. but why do I dwell so long upon this Subject? since it was but momen∣tany, and serv'd but as a Prologue to those Miseries, which are as endless as they are great. Artabanes would have continued his Relation, but that Callimachus being acquainted by his Servants, that Supper was ready, besought him to defer it till the day following, which Artabanes obeyed, and having only taken as much nourishment as would suffice Nature, he retir'd into those magnificent Lodgings, Callimachus had prepared for him, where he past the Night, as he was accustomed to do, which was, in the contemplation of his sad condition, that furnisht him always with so ma∣ny Arguments, for the impossibilities of its alteration, that it made De∣spair to appear Reason.

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIRST PART.

BOOK II.

THE morning was hardly old enough to permit a vi∣sit with civility, when the impatient Callimachus went to Artabanes Chamber, to beg a continuance of that Story, whose beginning had so satisfied him; But Simander assur'd him, that his Prince was gone an hour before into the Grove of Cypresse, to entertain his melancholly. Callimachus (whose Curiosity was so great, that it was uncapable of Delay, went presently to find him out, which, after a diligent search he did, in one of the most retir'd and ob∣scure corners of it, and in a posture better expressing Sadness, than Elo∣quence could; his Back was lean'd against a withered Tree, his Eyes e∣rected towards Heaven, his Arms folded one within the other, and so many Tears running down his Cheeks, that if moisture could have re∣viv'd that dead Trunk, it had needed no other Rain for its recovery. And that his words might express what his gestures did, Callimachus heard him cry out. Ye Gods! must I never be acquainted with your Power? but onely through those Miseries you cast upon me by it? alas! Why do ye furnish me with so much Frailty, and yet provoke me so much to despair: or Why do our Priests teach us there is a Providenc; when you are so careful by your Actions, to evince the contrary? then hang∣ing down his Head, he continu'd in a perfect silence, till he himself drew it by a second Deluge of despair, which drowning both his De∣votion and Reason, necessitated him to expostulate thus, with whom it was a Crime to do it. But what sins have I committed, to deserve so deep a suffering? yet, allow my Guilt had been too great for your Mercy, your Justice might have inflicted a punishment on my person, which might have equal'd my offences; for you are no gods, if you are not infinite in all your Attributes; but being so, why did the fair Par∣thenissa suffer for my fault? or else was it a more sensible way of perse∣cuting me, to do it through Her? If this were your Design, O gods! I have more reason in exclaiming against you, than you had for impo∣sing on me, that which provokes me to it; and to it; and to afflict the innocent to torment the Guilty, does rather argue Malice than Justice.

This impious reasoning frighted the good Callimachus, who fearing lest it should continue, discover'd himself, and by a sharp and eloquent Reprehension, disclos'd his anger, and the justice of it. To which Arta∣banes reply'd, That if he were acquainted with his Miseries, he would im∣pute what he had then utter'd, to his sufferings, and not to his irreli∣gion. Alas, Artabanes (said Callimachus) how does your Passion blind you? For you do not consider, that Sin is as odious to the Deities, as insepara∣ble

from Humanity; that 'tis an unexpressible Mercy, they do not inolve us in all those Miseries, their Power and Justice is capable of: and whilst there is any Curse not yet inflicted on us, we have more reason to esteem them unjust for their Clemency, than for the contrary. 'Twas with such Truths as these, that at last Callymachus disperst those Clouds of Dispair, which so darkened our unfortunate Lovers Piety, and then conjur'd him to finish that Relation he had the day before begun. To which Arta∣banes reply'd: I entertain'd you the last night with the beginning of my own story, but now I must in order to it, acquaint you with that of my Friends; the generous Artavasdes, who was taken Prisoner, (as you heard) in the Battel of Arontes, and whose Gallantry had receiv'd a Punishment almost as great as it merited the contrary, had not I had the happiness to prevent it.

The King of Armenia with the Reliques of his broken Army, retreat∣ing into his own Kingdom, attempted a small Town of the Parthians, call'd Offala, imagining by the taking of so little, to disguise a loss which had been so great. The Garrison being inconsiderable, as well for their Numbers as Resolutions, at first summons condescended to a Treaty, and then to a Surrender; but had four and twenty hours given them for the packing up their Baggage, during which, the Armenians had free access at their pleasure, which proved fatal to the Parthians; for Artaba∣zus's Soldiers, whether to revenge their Companions deaths at the prece∣dent Battel, or out of some dispute which happen'd betwixt those of the Army and the Garrison (as the Armenians gave it out) put all that were in Offala, as well Citizens as Soldiers, most barbarously to the Sword; which news, as soon as it came to Arsaces knowledge, so infinitely trans∣ported him, that he vow'd, the generous Artavasdes Bloud should expiate his Kings Crimes, and be a sacrifice to the Manes of his murder'd Sub∣jects. And though Pacorus represented how unjust a Revenge this was, being a violation of that quarter of his life, which he had too gene∣rously hazarded, to lose it in a way, which was so much the contrary, yet the King vowed by his Fathers Ashes (an oath that he never men∣tion'd, but afterwards he was unalterable) that Artavasdes should dye. I was present when this sad determination was taken up, and finding how unlike my perswasions were to deserve that name, I resolv'd to pre∣vent my Friends Ruine, and hinder my Prince from acting it, in a way too as unfitting for him, as the punishment was unworthy the Person for whom it was intended. To effect this, I went instantly to look Artavas∣des out, for (though a Prisoner) without any engagement, he had what liberty he desir'd. After a diligent search, I found him in a Wilderness of one of the Palace Gardens, where having acquainted him with what had happen'd, and was resolv'd, I begg'd him to retire a private way that led to my Lodgings, where he might remain secure, till his escape were believ'd so certain that it self might contribute to it: But his generosity was so great (knowing the danger to be so, in which I should fall, were he discover'd) that his care of me had like to have render'd mine fruitless for him, for it was so long before I could prevail with him, to accept of his safety by a hazard of mine, that the Kings Guards were already abroad for his Committal, and had not the way been very private to my Chamber, we had (doub∣tless) been discover'd before we had reach'd it: but we came at last safe thi∣ther, where I commanded Symander to wait on him, and permit no other of my Servants that Honor, nor to know of his being there; From thence I went to learn what course was taken for his discovery, and how failing in it, was

relisht; I was soon acquainted, that all the gates of Ninive were shut, and that one Rysolis, a friend of mine, was that night with some of the Guard to follow Artavasdes (in case he were not found out before his de∣parture) and that his believed escape had so much exasperated the King, that he gave strict order none should pass the gates without his own Li∣cense, till Rysolis's return; who, by chance, I found, as he was preparing himself for his Journey, and by his expressions quickly observ'd how much the Office displeas'd him; His affection to virtue and to me, made me dis∣cover to him where Artavasdes was concealed, and conjur'd him to let him pass as one of his Troop, and thereby render what was intended for his ruine, the means of preventing it. This request found a ready re∣turn; for he was as joyfull to serve me, as unwilling to obey his King in so unjust a command: Then having promis'd me, that within two or three hours he would call at my Lodgings; and undertake my desires; we se∣parated our selves, he to prepare himself, and I to acquaint Artavasdes, with his civility, who embrac'd it with moderation, and then told me, If I thought it would not be too great a trouble to you, I would employ the time I have left, in telling you the particulars of a life you are so earnest to preserve. To which I reply'd, That it was a favour I should have passionately begg'd of him, had not the apprehension of being thought too curious, been more prevalent with me than my own satisfaction, but since he was pleas'd to make that Overture, which nothing else had hinder'd me from making, I would listen to his adventures, with an intention which would speak how highly I was concern'd in them. Artavasdes ha∣ving told me I could not be concern'd in any thing that was more mine than himself, began this ensuing Story.

The History of ARTAVASDES and ALTEZEERA.

IF ever Love had an absolute Empire over any heart, and was at the same time admitted with a Joy that was so, it is over mine, but then I speak as great a truth when I assure you that this extraordinary effect had a proportionate cause, and that the Beauty, which prints her Image in me, does it with a stamp as pleasing as indelible; and to know this the more perfectly, you must first understand that my Father, whose name was Annexander, is a Prince that possesses the highest power in all Arme∣nia, and derives his Pedigree from Ancestors whose Antiquity and Vir∣tue have made them equally Famous; and though they never had the glittering trouble of a Crown (which succession and not virtue common∣ly casts on Men) yet they never wanted one of Lawrel; it seems too, that the Fates destin'd our Family to furnish a General to the Armenians, for in nine descents successively, one of it had always that Honour, and possest virtues, of so peculiar a quality, that with truth I may say they have been as glorious in their actions, as our Kings in their Titles. My Father, who was nothing degenerated from his Predcessors, is so entirely Master of all those realities and ornaments which render a Gentleman worthy that name; that Artabazus, our present King, as a reward of his services (which were the placing of his Father and him in the Throne of Armenia) gave his Aunt the fair Lindesia to him for his Wife, from

which Marriage I had the honor to proceed. But before I do so in my discourse, I must take a little digression to give you a Character of those persons I shall be necessitated to mention in it. Our King had another Aunt married unto Celindus, who was a Prince enrich'd with many good qualities; but his natural ambition (which receiv'd so great an accession from this alliance) made him employ them in such Criminal Designs, that they prov'd more destructive to his particular, and to his friends, than if they had been vices.

Artabazus has but one sister, much about the age of his own legitimate son, the Prince of Tigranes (which is a name as much affected to the Royal Blood of Armenia, as Arsaces is by that of Parthia) these two have abundantly evinc'd that the Body is the molde of the Soul, for Ti∣granes's shape is so horrid, that nothing can transcend it but his conditions, and truly the first is onely tollerable but because it manifests what the se∣cond is. But the Princess Altezeera has all the gifts of nature in so un∣accessional a degree, that nothing can excel the perfectness of her Body but that of her Mind, whose morning, though adorned with all that so ten∣der a youth was capable of, gave but an imperfect earnest of what her noon did produce. I must confess I was not so much master of mine own affections, as not to burn at so pleasing a fire, but resented a pain, which till then I never was acquainted with, for she had so equal a proportion of Divinity and Beauty, that my Flame participated so equally of de∣sire and adoration, that neither could suppress the other. Oh! gods, could I but tell you Artabanes what she is, I should have your excuse for what I did, which was, that I resign'd my liberty with more joy than any other could have recover'd his. But yet my Flame was as invisible as great, for I concluded, the Beauty being extraordinary, the way ought to be so, in which I disclos'd that I adored her. After an admiration and silence of a year, according to the common Computation, but an age according to mine, (such torments are there in a concealed Fire) my Fa∣ther, who (admiring the high virtue of the Romans, always held a pro∣portionate correspondency with them, partly out of a sence of their Gal∣lantry, as also to make use of their Power and Justice in case Celindus should rebel, who wanted not the will but the opportunity to do it) to acquire himself more intimately their Friendship, and to instruct me in the Civil and Military Discipline, sent me to Rome, whither I willingly went, hoping that success in Glory, might be the way to success in Love. After I had observ'd the most beneficial things there, I came to the Army of Lucullus, who was by the Senates orders making then a bloody War against Mithridates, in which expedition, I gave some such proofs of my courage, that he offer'd me any command which a stranger might pre∣tend unto. I declin'd this great Civility, by alledging, that my unexpe∣rience, as well as years, made me fitter to obey than command, that my chiefest desire was to have the honor to be near his person, and that any Office which should deprive me of that end, would be rather a punish∣ment than a preferment: Not to trouble you with too many particulars, though I would not take upon me any charge, yet I so fully satisfied Lu∣cullus with my refusal, that he never declin'd, nay, rather augmented his affection for me, and sent Letters in my favour to the Senate: but that I was more justly proud of than all this, was a perfect friendship I then contracted with the generous Ventidius, a Roman Patritian, who was, even to wonder, blest with all the graces of Nature and Education. A∣bout this time my Father, to make the Romans place a higher value on

me sent Two hundred young Gentlemen, of the chiefest Families in Ar∣menia to serve under me, which the Roman General much approv'd, and with whom I dare without vanity say, I did so many services, that he (though of an extraordinary ambitious nature) was yet so just as often to attribute much of the Glory of his success to our Valours. I will not tell you the events of that War whilst I was in it, since the miseries of Mithridates and the fame of Lucullus are yet so recent. Anexander, who began to suspect that Artabazus, who absolutely declin'd Mithridates, in the beginning, would now assist him, the Roman success rendring him jealous of it, commanded me to return into my own Countrey, after two years absence; which Summons I obey'd, and went home with Letters to my King and my Father, more fill'd with Lucullus's praises than truth. All those young Gentlemen which had escaped the fury and uncertainty of War; return'd with me. The desire we had to see our Friends; and I particularly to behold the fair object of my Passion, which was much in∣creas'd by absence (for Love has that property, that as long as it hath an existence; it will have a growth) made us so to hasten, that in fifteen dayes we arriv'd upon the confines of Armenia, and having a desire not to give any warning of our arrival, that we might the more agreeably suprize all those who were concern'd in it, we marched with our Helmets on, and with as little rest as the necessity of our Travel would permit. The sixth day after our coming into Armenia, just as the Sun began to en∣lighten the World, we might perceive from the top of the Hill we then were on, the City of Artaxata. The sight of that place, the then Resi∣dence of Altezeera, so transported me with joy, that in the contempla∣ting of being so near her, I discontinu'd travelling, and having stopt my Horse, offer'd some vows to the god of Love, that he would inspire the Excellency I ador'd with a true knowledge of the greatness of my Flame, and incline her to recompence it, but onely according to the vast∣ness and true virtue of it. Observe, I beseech you in this accident, how the gods favor the innocent, and by how strange means they work out their deliverance. That little Rapture I was fallen into, had caus'd all the company to stand, as I told you, it was in the place from whence we might see Artaxata, and those in it, and in the adjacent Plain betwixt the City and the Hill, might discover us. By that time I was beginning to descend the Hill, we descry'd a Horseman that came out of a Wood some thirty Furlongs from the Town, galloping towards us, and I, by chance, being a good way before my Company, he no sooner came within call, than he commanded me to tell Palisdes from Celindus, that the King and Altezeera were but newly come out, that we should return to our station, and not appear till Tuntini••s were engag'd. This unexspected Message much amaz'd me, yet as soon as I heard those names, I began to suspect some treachery; for my Fathers frequent Letters, when I was in the Ro∣man Camp, he acquainted me, that he had too-well grounded jealou∣sies of Celindus's ill inclinations to usurp the Crown; and therefore, turning about, I commanded my Company to do the like, and as soon as we were out of the sight of Artaxata, I left Celindus's Souldier in charge with one of mine, commanding him not to discover himself or us, and to have a care of what was committed to his. Then I went and order'd my faithfullest Servant Philanax to light off his Horse, to hide himself a∣mongst some Trees on the top of the Hill, and never to have his eye off the Plain, but as soon as he should see any fighting, immediately to give me warning of it. I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 placed Scouts upon all the adja••ent.

heights, whom I commanded to give me advertisement of what they should discover. Having thus disposed of things, I return'd to my Troop, assembled the chiefest of it, and acquainted them with the jealou∣sies I had, that Celindus intended some treachery to the King and Alte∣zeera, how that many things concurr'd to change that suspition into cer∣tainty, as that of the Soldiers taking us for a Troop that were to exe∣cute something by Celindus's orders, that apparently the design was upon Artabazus and Altezeera, by his saying they were but just then come out; that his naming Tuminius, and taking us for Palisdes's Troop, argued there were many in the enterprize; in a word, all those circumstances concurring, they were confirm'd in my belief; and after a small con∣sultation we resolv'd (the time being so short) to make Celindus's Sol∣dier confess the whole Conspiracy, either by fair means, or by torment: In order to which we went and told him, we were not Palisdes's Troop, but strangers coming from the Wars, and returning to our Countrey, that we had heard much of Celindus's Gallantry, that we concluded his design was virtuous, and that if it were communicated to us, we might do him service. The Souldier who had a quick apprehension, finding all was lost, unless by some subtilty he remedy'd it, answered us, I guess the design is noble by the undertakers of it, but my quality is so low, that I onely act in obedience of my Officers commands, and not being able to inform you of the enterprize, I shall advise you to send with me some of your Party to Celindus, who is not above twenty furlongs hence, and I make no doubt, if Virtue and Reward will engage you in his attempts, you shall want neither. We quickly found by his way of speaking, that his condition was not so mean as he would have per∣swaded us, and therefore, concluding he had some design by so plausable a pretence, to free himself out of our hands; and that no fair wayes would prevail, pulling off my Helmet, I made my self known unto him, and drawing out a Ponniard which I wore constantly, I vow'd by all those Oaths which men have most reason not to violate, That if he disclos'd not the whole design, I would instantly kill him, but if he would, I'd not onely engage my self for his pardon, but to give him as high Rewards for his turning honest, as he could pretend unto, if his wickedness had its wisht success. I added to those threatnings and promises all the argu∣ments my judgement could furnish me to lay upon the deformity of his hopes. The certainty of so sudden a Death, and the horror of Con∣science, made him by many sighs acquaint us with his repentance, and that he desir'd no greater reward, than to have been kept from doing ill. He then informed me, that his name was Evaxes, that he was one of the chiefest in this Conspiracy, and that all those who were engag'd in it, put on Common Soldiers habits, that in case the design succeeded not, they might remain undiscover'd: That he had been drawn in by Ce∣lindus's charming Eloquence, who having had some vent of Annexan∣der's suspition of him, had with-drawn himself into the Province of Saccasene, where he was Prince and Governor, as well by interest as Commission or Birth: That Celindus was resolv'd to kill the King, and to marry Altezeera to Tuminius's eldest son: That the Prince Tigra∣nes was privy to the Plot, but would not appear openly, till he saw what success it had, but that Celindus had onely engag'd him in it, to make his party the stronger, and for an invitation thereunto he was promis'd to be continu'd in the Throne after Artabazus's Death, he having in return, engag'd himself to give the Princess Altezeera to

Tuminius, which should be no sooner effected, than Celindus was resol∣ved to make away Tigranes too, and thereby settle the Crown upon his own Posterity; the Laws of the Armenians not excluding the Female Sex: That to effect this, he had sent divers Troops out of his Go∣vernment to lie in the places adjacent, and that they might not be sus∣pected, the Troopers came in by two and three in a company, disguis'd in the habits of Peasants, and carried their Arms so privately, that it was impossible to discover them; that having learn'd by his intelligencers the King and Altezeera were to hunt that day, he had sent Tuminius with Two hundred Horse, which lay in Apollo's Grove, who was to kill the King, and those that followed him; and to carry Altezeera to the ruines of an old Chappel, where, in a small bottom, Celindus, and some Three hundred Horse lay, to secure his retreat to Artemita, which is the first Town in his Government, and but an hundred furlongs from hence: That Palisdes (Celindus's other son) was appointed with 500 Horse more to continue upon the Hill we then were on, least Annexander (who to prevent any ill accidents had drawn 5000 Horse into Artaxata) should re∣lieve the King and the Princess before they came to Artemita, where there was a considerable body of Foot, and the rest of the Army (with which he design'd to reduce all Forces or Places that should oppose him) were quartered not above 20 furlongs off. This Relation (my dear Artaba∣nes, continu'd Artavasdes) gave me as much Horror as Amazement; and while I was enquiring what might be the cause that Palisdes was not come, one of my Scouts came galloping and told me, he discover'd a body of about 500 Horse, not eight furlongs off, that came on a round trot, almost the same way we had marched. This Troop we easily ima∣gin'd was Palisdes, whom I resolv'd to Charge, but first of all, dis∣patch'd away an Express to my Father, to acquaint him with what I had learn'd, and to conjure him to send out as many Horse as possibly he could spare, under some good Commander, but not lead them himself, lest the Town might be betray'd in his absence. Evaxes assur'd me thereupon, that Artaxata would be lost if he were once out of the Walls, for Celindus had many Partisans there, that waited onely such an oppor∣tunity to betray it. This being done, I began to order my Troop, which consisted of 150, but of so clear Valours and Resolutions, that those vir∣tues supply'd the defects of their numbers. But Evaxes, who perceiv'd my design, begg'd me not to put all to the hazard, having so few Men, and having to deal with those whose Resolutions were as great as their Crimes, that he had thought upon a stratagem, which might effect my design, without the hazarding it, which was, that he would go acquaint Palisdes that Celindus had sent him purposely to assure him, that Arta∣bazus and Altezeera were upon some intelligence return'd, and that there∣fore he should immediately dispose those Five hundred Horse into their several quarters; with orders to be in the same place the next morning, if they receiv'd no fresh ones to the contrary: That he, with the chief∣est of his friends, should go into the little Valley near the ruines of that old Chappel, where they would consult what was most expedient to be done, upon the intelligence they had and could learn. This, said Evaxes, you need not be diffident will have a wisht success, for Pa∣lisdes knowing the power I have with Celindus, will obey any Orders I shall bring him in his name. But he continu'd, You may suspect I will betray you, and lay this design for the obtaining of my liberty,

which I would have you believe is for the securing of the Kings: I must confess my former undertaking has been such, that all the civil Man is capable of, may be believed in me, with some appearance of justice: But I invoke the gods to be my witness, and beg them to be my punish∣ers, if my heart and my words are not the same: But I will not desire that obligation of you as to credit me, send a couple of these Gentle∣men along, one at my right hand▪ and the other on my left and if I fail in my engagement, let them pierce me with their Javelins, and let that be my reward. This discourse of Evaxes had something of probability in it, and knowing it was but fighting, (which I determin'd to do) in case he should betray me; I resolv'd rather to trust absolutely to him, (which if he had any principle of virtue) would bind him then to evidence it, than by sending two Gentlemen with him expose them to an unavoidable loss, as likewise by trusting of him but in part, invite him thereby to be false in the whole. Having made this my election, I told him, Go Evaxes, and by so handsom an action efface the guilt of your precedent Crimes, you shall be accompanied with nothing but your goodness, which I know will be a confinement to you to do well, than if all our Swords were at your Brest to punish you, should you do otherwise. To which Evaxes reply'd, that if he had been still in the darkness of his former Principles, so perfect a truth would have lighted him into the way of virtue. Having so said, he advis'd me to withdraw my self into a small bottom nigh the high-way, that I might remain undis∣cover'd till the Enemy were in the Toyle, and I that would send one along with him to the top of the next Hill, to give me warning when Palis∣des and his friends should advance, and to advertise me if I were betray'd. These last words he said smiling; and I having told him that I would send one for the first reason, but not for the last, Evaxes gallopt away, accompany'd with a Gentleman, whom he placed upon a rising ground, where he might easily discover the effect of his Embassy: To be brief, Evaxes so ordered his affairs with Palisdes, that he sent back his Troops, and came along accompany'd with Twenty of his Friends, that were the chief of the Conspiracy, who carelesly riding, fell into our hands, and though surprized, made so gallant a resistance, that ten of them were kill'd before we could reduce the rest. Those that remain'd alive (in which number was Palisdes, though somewhat wounded) we resolv'd to present unto the King, that justice not force might be their Executioner. Having thus happily begun our first enterprize, Evaxes offer'd to endeavor the delivery of Celindus into our hands by the like stratagem, but were interrupted by Philanax, who came all out of breath, and told me, that he saw many Soldiers in the Plain, who fought so furiously, that it was easie to be imagin'd the gaining the Victory was very considerable to them, but that the number was unequal, and that those which were the lesser, seemed to have nothing but their reso∣lutions to keep them from being vanquished. The great apprehension I had, least my relief might not come time enough, gave me Wings, so that though I came not so soon as I desir'd, yet I had this consolation, that I omitted nothing which was in my power. When I was within some few paces of the Scene where this bloody Tragedy was acting, I might perceive a small company of Gentlemen, that had cast themselves into a Ring, and in the hollow of the circle had placed one who I ima∣gined was the King, and defended him with courages fitter to be ad∣mir'd than describ'd; but their virtue was yielding to their Enemies

Numbers, had not we then come to their rescue, and the sight of so much barbarousness having inspir'd me and mine, with as much Fury, we fell upon them with such violence, that we reduced them to that condition, which their Rebellion deserv'd. Artabazus (for it was he) finding him∣self so miraculously preserved, came to me (for he found, by the respect all those of my Troop paid me, that I was their Chief) and told me; that he must attribute so miraculous a deliverance to the Tutelary gods of Ar∣menia, whose Altars should speak him grateful, and whose Instruments in his preservation, should find him so, if any thing in his power could do it, and therefore he desir'd to know those to whom he owed his Life. We told him, that as soon as all was ended, we should satisfy all his Commands, and in the mean time we assur'd him, that we had the Honour, to have so near a dependance on him, that all our actions were so far from merit∣ing, that they were less than our Duties: But Sir (I continued blushing and trembling) I beseech you, what is become of the Princess? Alas (said the King) in the beginning of the Fight, I sent her away under the Con∣duct of Nearchus, with twenty Gentlemen more, whom I soon observ'd were follow'd by near thrice as many of the Rebels: what success Near∣chus and his companions have had, I know not, but I am fearful by the Sa∣crificing of their Lives, they have onely thereby assur'd their Fidelity, and the Conquest of their Enemies. As the King was speaking, there came towards us one of the Princesses Pages, who seeing the number of the Dead, imagin'd that it was the Kings party defeated, and tnrning about, sought his preservation in the swiftness of his Horse; but the Livery being known, and guessing at the mistake, I follow'd and cry'd out to him, that we were the Kings Servants, and desir'd to know where the Princess was; but his fear made him suspect every one that had but a Sword in his Hand, and cer∣tainly we had not overtaken him, had not his too much haste been the cause of it; for his Horse being run off his Legs, fell so heavily, that I had leisure to come up to him, and having inquir'd where the Princess was, I could get no other answer from him, but Quarter, Quarter; and indeed, he was so really possest, that I was one of Tuminius's his party, that nothing I could say for a long time, could make him believe the contrary; but at last, some of the Kings Servants being come, he perceiv'd his Error, and then told us; That Nearchus, with those twenty Gentlemen he had taken with him, were, when he came away for relief, generously dispu∣ting the Princess's safety, in so advantageous a place, that none could come behind, and but five a-breast before; but that most of them were dange∣rously wounded, and if they had not a sudden relief, they would be un∣capable of any. I commanded the Page to shew me immeditely where they were, and having gotten some twenty of my friends with me, I left the rest to guard the King, and flew with them to the place where the Princess was. Gods! what fury was I possest with, when I saw the poor Nearchus, with four more, disputing Altezeera's safety, I fell upon them with all the rage her danger could inspire me with, and cry'd out, Cou∣rage brave Nearchus, the gods, who are concern'd in Altezeera's innocen∣cy, and your Valour, have sent them both this Relief. My generous com∣panions, who were equally animated with me, did actions, almost wor∣thy the cause they fought for, and Nearchus finding so unexpected a suc∣cor, gave proofs of an exceeding high courage; but we found Tuminius his numbers, might, in time; have made our success doubtful, and know∣ing the influence a Commander has over his Men, I called out to him: Tis I Tuminius, that am come to take from thee Altezeera, if thy valour

fly as high as thy desires, thou shouldst by killing the Ravisher of them, manifest to that fair Princess, thou hast a resolution able to overcome all obstacles that dare oppose it. Tuminius, who wanted not courage, an∣swer'd me: If there needs but the killing of thee, to assure her that Truth, she shall not long doubt it; and would to the gods, I could as easily vanquish her disdain, as all my other Enemies: He had no soon∣er done speaking, than he made himself a lane through the Throng, and having separated my self from my companions, commanded them to let us alone, till Death or Victory decided the quarrel. Tuminius having order'd his Men the like, we began to fight, but with so much earnestness, as if the Conqueror had expected Altezeera for his reward; I must confess, I was so asham'd that one guilty Man, in the presence of my Princess, and for her safety too, should dispute so long the Victory, that I prest him so vigorously, and so unfortunately for him, that my Sword at last having found the defect of his Armour, pierc'd him through and through, at which thrust he fell, and with that stream which issu'd from his wound, he breath'd out his life. All my friends made a great shout at my success, and fell so briskly on Tuminius Soldiers, that by their fury, and by the loss of their Commander, we had a Victory so cheap, that it hardly deserved that name. The Field being wholly ours, I lighted off my Horse, and with an infinite Humility, went to Altezeera, and told her; Madam, The gods of whom you are so perfect a Copy, have sent me hither, to serve you against your Enemies, and have given you an entire Victory, lest their Justice or Power by your loss, or want of revenge, might have been call'd in question. I must confess, said she, the actions I have seen you do for my deliverance, assure me, 'tis more than a humane Power which has effected it, but the gods, whose delight is to relieve the innocent, made me not despair of their help, though the means (till your arrival) was unseen: But, Sir, shall I desire you to add two favours unto this I have already receiv'd? that I may know to whom I owe the preservation of my life, and per∣haps my Honour, and that if there be any hopes of rescuing my Brother, you would imploy your Sword in so just a quarrel, Madam (I reply'd) my Name has been so little beholding to my Actions, that by them it is not considerable, but for the King, I have already had the happiness to serve him, and if I be not mistaken,, that Troop which you see marching this way, attends him by my Orders. How? (said Altezeera) does Ar∣tabazus as well as I, owe his safety to your Sword? sure then your Name cannot be so unconsiderable, as you would make me believe it is, or if it has been, it is so no longer; but I am consident you will not discover it, to hinder us from being ungrateful, which unavoidably we must be, if once we learn to whom we are Indebted. Madam (I reply'd) to take you out of that Error, I will acquaint you who I am, that you may know, I have onely hazarded a Life in your service, which I am resolv'd to spend in the same employment: then pulling off my Helmet, she no sooner saw my Face, but she cry'd out, 'tis Artavasdes! and there wanted nothing to make my Joy as perfect as my Safety, but to owe the latter to his Gallan∣try. Just as I was going to reply, the King (who had learn'd by some of my Troop, who I was (and by one of those who escaped Tuminius sword, what I had done,) came running to me, and having embraced me a thou∣sand times, told me, I see Artavasdes, that Virtue is born with us, not in∣fused into us by Education, otherwise you could not be possessor of so great a quantity, in so tender an age. Sir (said I) your goodness being too great, makes you place a resembling value upon my services▪ and I

should be guilty of an equal presumption, if I did not attribute your expressions to any thing sooner than your Justice, But, Sir, let not the joy of your safety hinder us from receiving the benefit of it, nor me from bringing this Gentleman to kiss your hands, who has washt away his criminal intentions by his gallant performance. Thereupon I pre∣sented Evaxes to the King, who acquainted him with all Celindus and Ty∣granes's designes, and that we had taken Palisdes, who being shew'd to the King, discover'd as much guilt in his Face, as he had in his Heart. Artaba∣zus commanded he should be safely kept, and ratified all I had promis'd to Evaxes; then learning that Celindus had yet three hundred Horse be∣twixt us and the Town, we thought it not fit to lose any time, and there∣fore having by Artabazus command, and her permission, taken the fair Altezeera behind me, and order'd our Men, we began to retire towards Artaxata, when our Scouts came immediately, and brought us word, that Celindus, with above 400 Horse (for fear multiplies) was marching di∣rectly towards us, and was but six Furlongs off. As soon as I heard it, I turn'd about to the Princess, and told her, Madam, I am in a greater con∣flict with my self, than I can have with the Enemy, whether I should com∣mit you to the charge of some Gentleman, swiftly Hors'd, and endeavor to secure your Retreat, or else by dying at your Feet, take the oppor∣tunity to acquaint you with that, which I shall not have the confidence to do, whilst I am sure to out-live the discovery. To which she answer'd, I have so good an opinion of Artavasdes, that I shall esteem my self as safe under his Sword, as in Artaxata, and I cannot conceive that his Heart is capable of any thing which his words dare not reveal. Madam (I re∣ply'd) I must confess I am guilty of a crime, but the cause of it is so Glo∣rious, that if it were not committed against you, I should not call any ef∣fect that proceeded from it by such a name. But, Madam, the Enemy ap∣proaches, and I must put you in some place of safety, that I may by the hazarding of my life, secure yours; and would to the gods, the loss of mine could give you as perfect a security, as the ending of it in your ser∣vice would give me a satisfaction. The King by this time was come so near us, that I could not receive any answer from my Princess, and askt me what order I would settle, for the receiving of so bold a Guest; for he was determin'd to derive his preservation wholly from my Sword. I answer'd so large a Favor with a resembling humility, and having con∣jur'd Nearchus, to have a care of the Princess, I lighted from my Horse, took down Altezeera, and set her up behind him; then kissing her hand, I told her softly, Madam, inspire me by your Commands, that I may per∣form things worthy your looking on; and remember, if I dye in the act∣ing of them, you lose the faithfullest servant, that ever your perfections did acquire you: But she was so perplext (whether through apprehen∣sion, or any other cause) that she onely answer'd me in Tears, which ne∣vertheless, coming from her fair Eyes, enflam'd me with as high a Fire, as ever they shot into any Lovers Heart. Celindus by this time was come so near, that I had only leisure to conjure the King, that he, and the Prin∣cess would fly to Artaxata, whilst I amus'd the Enemy; and having left 50 Horse for their Guard, I divided those that remained into two Bodies, as the Enemy had done theirs, and having in few words, told my com∣panions, how highly they were oblig'd to their fortunes, that had furnisht them with an occasion to shew their valours before, for the greatest Mo∣narch of the East, and the fairest Princess of the World, and how the Victory, which was the onely way to preserve them, was as certain as

their cause was just; I began the Charge, and fighting under the conduct of Justice, Honour, and Love, I soon made a breach for my valiant friends, who being carried on with a generous desire, routed that Wing we at∣tempted, and thereby made a passage for Nearchus, who lost no opportu∣nity, but got by with the King and Princess. But Stratolis, who command∣ed the left Wing of our Horse, had not so good success; for though he disputed the business with sufficient courage, yet he was over-power'd, and at last worsted, so that in effect, we were but as we begun; for what I had gain'd, he had lost, onely the King and Altezeera, by my good fortune, got that other of passing by. We instantly rallied again, and determin'd onely by skirmishing, to make good our Retreat, and not to hazard all at one Charge, lest if foil'd, the King and the Princess might not recover Artaxara. Our resolutions had such good success, that I held the Enemy in play long enough for Nearchus design, had not the subtile Celindus imagin'd that I would send the King and the Princess away with a small Guard, and with the rest justify the retreat, which caus'd him to lay a hundred Horse in Ambush betwixt us and the Town, who falling suddenly upon Nearchus, so terrified his Men, that most of them were cut off, before they put themselves in a posture of resistance. One of the Run-aways fled to me, and with a countenance which acquainted me with his fear, told me, all was lost, if I did not instantly remedy it. I left most part of my Horse with Stratolis, whom I commanded to amuse the Enemy, and with thirty of my friends, ran to the place where my help was so needful. But alas, the first thing I saw, was a rude Soldier, who had dismounted Artabazus, and was going to plant his Ponyard in his Breast. This impious action gave me so just a resentment, that I clove with one stroke the offenders Head in too, and leaping off my Horse, mounted the King upon him, and seized on another that ran about the Field without a Master. But gods! to how unparallell'd a height was my anger rais'd, when the piercing shreeks of the fair Altezeera reacht my Ears: For Nearchus being kill'd, one of Celindus Officers had seiz'd on her, and was carrying her away. I profess ingeniously, my dear Artabanes, that sight did so transport me, that I think a Legion could not have hinder'd me from relieving her dan∣ger, or killing the causer of it. So that having made a passage through the throng, I soon made another through him, and by that thrust, depriv'd him both of his Life and Hopes. Then taking the overjoy'd Altezeera be∣hind me, I went to the King, whom we overtook, retreating towards Artaxata; but when we were come within some ten Furlongs of it, we dis∣cover'd a Body of near Five hundred Horse, coming towards us in a cloud of Dust, as fast as they could gallop. Altezeera, who had generously op∣pos'd all perils, now began to faint; but I told her, Madam, the god's, who have hitherto protected you, have therby taught you not to despair, and I am confident you are so highly cherisht by them, that if nothing but a Miracle can effect your preservation, yet you shall not be deny'd it, or fall into your Enemies hands, at least that Fate shall not be yours, whilst I have a Sword, or Life to oppose it, my duty, and a higher consideration ex∣acting it from me: I begg'd her therefore, not to contribute to the danger, by being astonish'd at it, nor to let go her hold; for I was confident, fight∣ing for so transcendent a perfection, my courage would proportion my cause: Having thus said, she embrac'd me with so great a satisfaction for the transported Artavasdes, that had it proceeded from Love, as it did from Fear, I had wanted little of perfect happiness;but though the ef∣fect came from a wrong cause, yet I blest the danger, that gave me so high

a contentment: But, alas, her apprehension soon ended, and my joy with it, for we found it was the young Amidor my Brother, who by my Fa∣thers command, was come out to rescue us, having received that adver∣tisement I had sent him. In this general satisfaction, I alone was extream∣ly perplext, having bought the publique security at too dear a rate for my particular, yet the consideration that by it Altezeera was out of danger, whose contentment I still preferr'd before my own, did soon ba∣nish all those sad thoughts, and having sent 200▪ of those Horse, under my Brother to help Stratolis, with the rest we marched to Artaxata, where Anexander, and all the City, receiv'd us with Faces that spoke their content∣ments. It were superfluous to tell you what Artabazus said to my Father, and all those with him in my favour, I will therefore onely acquaint you, that Altezeera (whose Beauty was grown to such perfection, that it made me almost irreligious, by desiring to see no other happiness) having led me aside, told me, Artavasdes, I should too much wrong my resent∣ments, if I coulp hope to describe them. To save me from Tuminius's in∣solency, and his Passion, are obligations of so high a Nature, that they resemble his Virtues, which conferr'd them on me. Madam (I reply'd) in serving you, I have perform'd my duty, and receiv'd my reward; But Madam, had Tuminius the confidence to make his addresses to you? He had, (said she) and would have perswaded me, that this enterprize was onely the effects of his Love, not his Fathers Ambition. Alas Madam (I answer'd) then he was pardonable, if at least he is so, that cannot avoid committing of his fault. How? (said Altezeera) now you know the cause of his Crime, you seem to approve it. No Madam (I reply'd) but pitty his inevitable fate; I say inevitable, because experimentally I find it so. This I spoke in disorder and trembling; but alas, I had immediately much more cause for both, when I heard her say, Ah Artavasdes, I have been too patient, and by my not suppressing your first inconsiderateness, have thereby authoriz'd what you have since committed, yet I give this presumption to your services, but let me have no repetitions of it, least you force me against my inclination to become your Enemy; she was going away with that reply, but I conjur'd her before she went, onely to hear mine, which she said she granted, not to me, but the company, who otherwise might suspect in her disorder, the cause of it. Madam (said I) the same consideration hinders me from flinging my self at your feet, and begging your forgiveness, and though I thought Tuminius excusable in da∣ring to adore you, knowing by my self, how impossible it was to do other∣wise; yet I held him withal, so worthy of revenge, that to be sure he should not avoid it; I inflicted it on him with my own hands, and before you see me next, you shall be convinc't, I will not practice what I con∣demn, and that I can punish aswell as commit a fault. These words I de∣liver'd with a Countenance and accent as sad as themselves, which the fair Altezeera was so sensibly mov'd with, thet she told me; Though your Crime be great, yet I desire no other reparation, but that you will not repeat it: And since you assure me, I have an Empire over you, larger than I thought; evince that truth, I conjure you, by attempting nothing against your life. I shall obey you, Madam (I reply'd) but I beseech you, receive this obedience as the highest demonstration of it that I am capable of, for my torments are as far from being describ'd, as (I fear) they are from being cur'd: which I must not expect from Time, but Death, which is a Truth, if all things fail of evidencing to you, my Death will not. Though she were going from me, yet I am confident she heard my

last words, (but her disdain, though I had armed my self against it) wrought so powerfully upon me, that Annexander perceiving the disorder I was in, came to me, and attributing it to a slight wound I had receiv'd in the Fight, told me, that I should do well to retire to his Lodgings, (which were in the Palace.) I obey'd his commands, and having took my leave of the King, I did the like of Altezeera, but with a Countenance so appropriated to my Condition, that she being moved with it, bad me have a care of my health, which words made a great impression in me, for I could not believe she was so kind out of a design to crown my Affection with a reciprocal one, nor so cruel, as to preserve me onely to torment me. In this suspence I arriv'd with my Father at his Chamber, where Lindesia solemniz'd her joy for my safe return, and after I had paid her that which my Duty and Inclination exacted from me; I begg'd leave of Annexander, that I might, with some Horse, go see what success my Brother and my Friends had; as I was receiving his answer, Amidor, Stratolis, Evaxes and the rest, came into the Chamber, and told us, they had defeated all Ce∣lindus's Troops, but that he himself had fled, when he saw that releif co∣ming to the King. My design being so stopt, after I had receiv'd all my Friends Civilities, and an Order, next morning, to wait upon the King, to consult what was to be done for the suppressing of Celindus; I retir'd in∣to my Chamber, under pretence, that a slight hurt requir'd some rest, as the best remedy; Having thus freed my self from all but my own thoughts, I went to bed, where thinking to be alone, I found my self most accom∣panied: There the Perfections of the fair Altezeera did so manifest them∣selves, that I was wholly taken up in the contemplation of them; but when I began to consider, that all those distinct Beauties were as so ma∣ny Enemies, that had design'd my destruction; I could not abstain from saying, Unfortunate Artavasdes! what envious power is it, that has made thee love so high an Excellence, that it is as great a sin to expect the obtaining of her by Merit, as a weakness to believe she will be won with∣out it. Dye then, Artavasdes, and by one resolute action, declare the greatness of thy respect, and that of thy sufferings which necessitated thee to such a Cure. But alas, I continu'd, that remedy is deny'd me too, so that I cannot live but in torment, nor dye, but by disobedience, the first is consistent with my Nature, and the last with my Duty. Yes, thou must live, I continued, after a long silence, since Altezeera has command∣ed it, and who knows, but thy sufferings may raise her compassion, and the vastness of thy future Services, convert it unto Love: but suddainly those pleasing thoughts vanisht, having no other Foundation, but a hope so ill grounded, that it was as much weakness to expect her affection, as it had been a happiness to possess it. Whilst I was in this manner enter∣taining my sad thoughts, the day appear'd, and the Sun found me as full of misery, as it had left me in. But Annexander having receiv'd advertise∣ment, that Celindus was drawing his Army together, to gain that by a great force which a small one, and fortune, had deny'd him, came into my Cham∣ber to give me advice of it, and to acquaint me, that Tygranes was fallen sick; after Artabazus had acquainted him that he knew all his designes, and severely reprov'd him for them, but that the King suspecting he coun∣terfeited one suffering, the better to escape another, had plac'd such strict and vigilant Guards about him, that his desire of flying to Celindus, should not be greater, than the impossibility was. I seem'd to be extreamly affairs asham'd when he came in, to be found so lazy, in a season, when our nats made it a vice rather than a fault, though indeed I needed Rest

more than to have been condemn'd for taking too much. But lest my Father might discover something by my sadness, I conceal'd it as much as I could, and by talking of Tygranes condition, endeavour'd to take him off from being too intent in considering mine. As soon as I was ready, we went to the King, who used me with transcendent favour, and having assembled the Council, some advis'd considering Artabazus weakness, and Celindus power, that it were fit to use him with all civility, to grant him his desire, and endeavour by protraction to reduce him to his Duty; others were of opinion, that when Princes capitulate with Rebels, they do thereby discover their own weakness, and declare that to be Fear, they would have to be thought Mercy, which is a Virtue that loses its value when imploy'd on those that dispute with Swords: some said too, that if it were requisite to grant Celindus any Conditions, 'twere fit that it should be when he implor'd, and not when he attempted to force them: others believ'd, that to intend to grant them then, was to be resolv'd ne∣ver to do it; since his Army and Faction was so numerous, 'twas im∣probable he would be ever reduc'd to so low a posture, and that Ar∣menia would be destroyed for a Ceremony of State, by deferring to act that but a short while, which necessity would enforce us to at last: but the result of all was, That the chiefest of the Nobility and Gentry which were with the King, should immediately go into their own Coun∣treys, and with all expedition raise what Forces they could, and bring them to Thospia, a Town of great importance, both for the bigness, strength and loyalty thereof; That Celindus thereby might be either perswaded or forc'd to his obedience. In pursuance of which, Anexander was sent with all the considerablest Men in the Kingdom, to raise an Army, and the care of the Town, and the Forces of it, the King committed to my charge, which imployment I willingly attended, as the means to be near, and serve the fair Altezeera. Anexander being dispatched, and Artabazus having sent me my Commission, I presently repaired those Fortifications that were defective, made new ones where they were need∣ful, sent out parties to fetch in Provisions and Forage, and to destroy what they could not bring away, slighted all Grounds that were favou∣rable for approaches; and in a word, forgot nothing that I thought re∣quisite for a Siege. I found the number I had within, were (Inhabitants and all) 14000 Foot, and 1400 Horse, which I divided into several Troops and Companies, and to avoid all Treachery, made them still draw Lots for their Guards. But in all this noise of War the silent fire of Love did still possess me, and what with incessant toilings, and di∣stemper of mind, I so fell away, that a slow Fever seized on me, and doubtless I had yielded to it, had not the care of preserving my Princess given me Supernatural Forces. This declination was so apparent, that Altezeera was not ignorant of it, and (as she assured me afterwards) simpathiz'd with me in it, but her Spirit was greater than her inclination, and consequently my pain than either. But while things were thus in Artaxata, Celindus was not idle, and having got Advertisement, that Anexander was gone to raise an Army; he resolv'd to employ his for the taking of the Town before Anexander was able to relieve it, and in pur∣suance of that determination, the tenth day after our Fight, he presented himself before the Walls of Artaxata, with an Army of about 50000 Foot, and 10000 Horse, well fitted with all things that he wanted, onely a good quarrel. The order in which they marcht, made them as formidable as their very numbers, and having drawn up in a Plain, on the East side

of Artaxata, they advanc'd the two wings of their Army by degrees, and inviron'd the Town, having cast a Bridge of Boats over the River Araxis, which separates Artaxata by the middle, and began by flinging up of Earth to secure themselves from our Sallies. The King from a high Tower of the Palace, perceiv'd all the motion of that great Body with a resembling Fear, which truly was one of Artabazus most predominant defects▪ for he was timerous to such a height, that it made his Subjects bold, but Altezeera (who was then with him, and whose spirit was hardly capable of apprehension, consider'd those with indignation, which her Brother lookt upon with terror; in the mean time I had ordered all the Soldiers to their several Posts, and being not able to indure Celindus so near, without tasting of what composition his Army was made of, I got a thousand Horse, and as many Foot in Arms, and by a furious and un∣expected Sally, forc'd the next Guards to a hasty retreat, and in the dis∣order thereof, routed some Reserve-Troops, which came to oppose us; The Camp at this hot Alarm, was presently all in Arms, and sent out three Bodies of Horse, who added to our success, instead of finishing it, and some of them that scap'd our Swords, told such miracles of our Cou∣rages, to apologize for the poorness of their own, that Celindus in per∣son, at the head of 4000 Horse, came to know and redress his condition. This made me think of retreating, not being so perfectly acquainted with my Soldiers Valors, as to believe they might not be vanquished without being killed, and having such good success, I was loath to adventure all the gallantry of the Garrison at one push, where the advantage, if we had success, could not be so great, as the prejudice, if we had been de∣ny'd it. Therefore I sounded a Retreat, and as I was making it leisurely, Celindus sent 500 Horse a full gallop to ingage us, which they did; and thereby too so far ingaged themselves, that not fifty ever got off, but yet truly they defended themselves so well, and rallied so often, that I was much troubled such gallant Men shonld be so ill imploy'd: but their obstinacy in refusing quarter, made us think it a Justice to give them none. The execution indeed was bloudy, for by those that reckoned most moderately, in all this fight there were esteemed near 4000 to be kill'd, and we lost about 300. This was our first Essay, and with this suc∣cess we return'd into Artaxata, before Celindus could come to the place of revenging those deaths he had been a sad spectator of. Having by a short speech thanked the Soldiers and Officers, and commended their Valours, I took one and twenty Colours, which were the marks of our that days success, and went to the Pallace, to present them to Artabazus, who having seen what we had done (to honor us the more) came with Altezeera to the Gate, where laying them at his Feet, I told him; Sir, my fellow Soldiers and I, humbly present you these marks of the good∣ness of your quarrel, and beseech you to receive them as Fruits of our Fidelity, and as an earnest of what we will hereafter pay you. To which (having first imbrac'd me) he reply'd, Let not your Civility, under the name of the goodness of my quarrel, rob you of that Glory your Gal∣lantry deserves; 'tis that which presents me with these effects of it, and which indeed is so great, that I know not whether I should sooner elect, to have Artavasdes, or Justice on my side, but having both, I am as secure as the gods can make me. After some civilities, the King retir'd into the Palace, and the Princess to her Apartment, where observing my deep me∣lancholly, she told me, smiling, If I knew not perfectly your zeal to my Brothers service, I might, by your sadness, (after having paid him so signal

a one) suspect your Victory was rather your misfortune than design. Ma∣dam, (I reply'd) if it were so, I should rather be guilty of no Crime, at least, if it be none to imitate you; for what in raillery you say of me, I fear I may with too too much truth say of you in a Victory, which though you knew but lately, you have long since acted. The fair Altezeera blusht at what I had spoken, which made me (apprehending her reply) not give her the leisure of making it, and therefore I hastily continued; but Madam, if I have cause to be satisfied with my Fortune, I am certain I have not to be so with my condition, for though the first gave me those ensignes, yet the last necessitated me, to present them to another when you stood by, at whose feet I have prostrated them with much more joy, than I took them; but alas, my condition forces me to performances against my inclination, which yet would be something extenuated, if as you are con∣vinc'd of that truth in this particular, you would pardon it in another. Altezeera by not taking notice of what I desired, and feared she would, did it in my opinion sufficiently, and obligingly: But that I might make no sinister, or advantageous construction of her silence, she told me; The victo∣ry you have so presently obtain'd, could not have been more just, than you be in so bestowing those signes of it, so that I am more oblig'd to your intention, than I should have been by your performance, and yet in the first I discover how concern'd you are to oblige me, since rather than not do it, you would commit an injustice. Would to the gods, Madam, I hastily re∣ply'd with a deep sigh, you had the same indulgence for me; but, Madam, I continu'd, will you permit me sometimes to believe you speak what you do not intend, by being now convinc'd you do so? for you cannot be so ignorant of your own power, and the duty I owe it, as to imagine I can owe more, or so much to any other creature. The fair Altezeera, who apprehended the continuance of this dispute, might prove a continuance of her trouble, to put a period to it, told me coldly, I see, Artavasdes, you must be victorious in all you undertake, and to be conquer'd by your civility, is as unavoidable for your Friends, as to be so by your Sword, is for your Enemies. Ah Madam (I reply'd) if you see me not, what you say you do, you may when you please, and by permitting me to be victo∣rious over your Disdain, you may make me triumph over the Enemy I most apprehend, and thereby render me as uncapable of losing, as of needing any other Victory. Whilst I was thus speaking, the fair Altezeera assum'd a countenance so full of Severity and Majesty together, that I understood her answer before she spoke it, though it contain'd these cruel words. Since Artavasdes, you will force me to understand you, unless I would ac∣knowledge my self as insensible, as I fear (by your thus proceeding) you believe me, I must tell you with a plainness as great as yours, that the first time you speak to me of your Passion, it shall be the last, and if you desire the continuance of my esteem, you must neither sollicite my Love, nor acquaint me with yours, since if you do, I shall not onely revoke that, but try if my Brother will be more successful than I have been, in teach∣ing you the respect you owe, and ought to pay me. She had no sooner done speaking, then she retir'd into her Closet, in which she lock'd her self up, and left me in confusions, as great as their cause. O gods! what did not say or think against my Princess cruelty, since it even propor∣tion'd the vastness of that Passion which was the object of it. I had longer continu'd in that fatal entertainment, had not some of her Women come into the Chamber, and lest they might guess at the occasion of my sad∣ness, by the visibility of it, I forthwith went to my own Apartment, where I spent the residue of the day, and the succeeding night, in all the Agonies,

and Tortures of a great and fruitless Passion. Many days I struggl'd un∣der that burthen, to which, doubtless I had yielded, if Altezeera's safety, and the honour of having it committed to my Sword, had not been the most predominate. Celindus in the mean time assum'd a Resolution of storming Artaxata in the open day, in a confidence, by so braving an at∣tempt to efface his late affront, knowing that in all Wars, especially Do∣mestick ones, the people judge of the progress by the beginning, and that whoever does lose his reputation, will soon after that, lose his Hopes and Army. This intelligence was brought me by a faithful and intelligent Spy, who came from Celindus's Camp, and who had seen the scaling-Ladders, the Faggots, and the rouling Bridges all fitted. This Advertisement I instant∣ly communicated to Artabazus and the Council, who were all astonisht at Celindus resolution, and believ'd he durst not have assum'd it, were he not favour'd by some of the Garrison; the probability of which opinion made me have a care of securing all within, as well as opposing those with∣out. The night before this intended assault, not knowing whether I should out-live it, and to render my death pleasing, or necessary, I went to Alte∣zeera's Apartment, where having begg'd, and obtain'd the honour of a private conference with her, after a small silence, and great disorder, I told her, I should not, Madam, have presum'd to appear again before you, to discover my repeated Disobedience, had not I faithfully endeavour'd, to the uttermost, to have avoided it, but having found, that the Passions your Beauties do inspire, are not to be cur'd but by you, or death, and that that Truth cannot be a greater one than that is, that you are resolv'd to decline being my Restorer; I am come, Madam, to conjure you by your own quiet, and mine, to permit me in this following occasion to seek out, and embrace a cure, your Justice, or cruelty denies me. Did not I conclude, that the ending of my life now would be more advantageous to you, than the continuance of it could prove, during the Siege and Danger, I would rather groan under my Miseries, than ambition for them such a period. 'Tis not much, fair Altezeera, that the miserable Artavas∣des implores; for he begs not that you would make him happy, but that you would permit him to be no longer miserable, which will not onely act his cure, but your revenge also for having needed it: On which latter he is as intent as on the former, and desires it as much on your score as his own. These words deliver'd with a Look and Accent, that were very moving, prov'd so with her, to whom they were addrest, who with a countenance that told me so, reply'd. Though I confess your perseverance in your Passion, and Disobedience, does much trouble me, yet I know not whe∣ther your death would do it more, and till I have resolv'd that doubt, I desire you not to do it; and if that be not sufficient, I command you it, and shall judge of what you would perswade me, by observing whe∣ther what I say can perswade you. If, Madam (I reply'd) my sufferings were with hope, I might by my Reason, raise my Fortitude to the requi∣site height, and therefore I do now in some sort, rejoyce at the unpro∣misingness of my condition, that as my Flame excels all others, so the Beauty which inspires it, may abundantly find by Obedience, the visi∣bility of that distinction, to be as great in the Effect, as in the Cause. But, Madam, I humbly conjure you, if in the duty of preserving you, I fail in that other of obeying you, ascribe it to the real Cause, and give my death that sensibility which you have deny'd my Life. This is a Mercy which Compassion may obtain, if not Cloak, and though I should ambition the last, yet I dare not hope it, and implore your

pardon for presuming to name it. I shall know, said Altezeera hastily, how to distinguish between what seeks you, and what you seek. And therefore believe me, if I find you guilty of the last, I shall deny your death not onely the first of those two things you mention'd, but both. These last words she deliver'd going away into her Closet, and her eyes were so cover'd with tears, and her cheeks with blushes, that I knew not whether compassion, or a more obliging cause carried her so hastily away. As soon I found I was alone (which I had not for a good while, so much my doubts, my fears, and my hopes were predominant) I went to give the necessary orders for the reception of Celindus, the certainty of whose intended assault next morning, I had that night confirm'd unto me by repeated Intelligences. Aurora did but begin to give the World notice of the days approach, when the shrill Trumpets, and other Warlike In∣struments, invited the Soldiers to draw out of their Camp, and to march to the storming of Artaxata, which, if taken, would end the War, and satisfie both their avarice and ambition. Celindus, to animate his Army, made them a short speech, and therein acquainted them, That their inte∣rests as well as courages invited them by one gallant Action to conclude that War, which time would render more difficult, and perhaps unfea∣sible; That his happiness or misery depended upon their Swords; as well as their reward and honour did upon his Fortune; That since the ties were mutual, the hazard would be so likewise; That therefore he would be as well a Companion with them, as a Commander over them; and would have as great share in the danger as the glory, which he doubted not was as certain as it would be great, having those whose courages would court victory so handsomely, that her Injustice must be as high as their Valors, if she did not fling herself into their arms. The Soldiers encouraged by so obliging words, testifyed their Resolutions by a shout (which was al∣most as loud as their guilt) and Celindus with the generous Phanasder, (his Lieutenant-General) having order'd the manner of the Storm, the first Troops advanc'd, and discharg'd a shower of Darts upon those which I had appointed to man the Walls, and playing without intermission up∣on the Battlements, they did (under favour of their shot) advance their Battering-Rams, their Rolling-Bridges, and their Scaling-Ladders, which were all order'd with so much advantage, that the Rams having made a breach, Celindus in person, at the head of Four thousand Men, presented himself at the mouth of it, with so assur'd a countenance, that the dull Inhabitants, and some Soldiers which had the guard of that quarter, fled, and left him the passage clear. Whilst these things were acting on the North side of Artaxata, I was disputing against Phanasder the weakest place of it, which he had assaulted with so much fury, that I atttibuted our Victory to the justice of the gods, rather than to any humane means, and I had but newly beaten him off, when a Soldier that fled from the Breach which the Enemy had enter'd, came running to me, and told me, that Ce∣lindus with near half his Army was within our Walls. This news (as you may easily imagine) did not a little surprize me, and having leisure to exclaim against Fate, that thus endanger'd Altezeera, I took most of those men with whom I had defeated Phanasder, and ran with them to the place the Soldier guided me unto, where I found that Celindus had possest himself of that Street which led directly from the Breach unto the Pa∣lace, and was already beginning to force open the Gates of it, when I cry'd out, hold Celindus, do not think the gods have so much abandon'd the innocent, as to permit the King and Altezeera to fall into thy Pow∣er,

the ill success of Phanasders Forces, shews that they are under the protection of Divinity, and if that argument will not make thee credit it, thy own defeat shall. Finishing those words, we thrust our selves in∣to the thickest Squadrons, where my valiant Friends so well acted their parts, that we soon cloathed them with their own Livery (despair.) But I must give Celindus that due, that what Troops our Resolution disor∣der'd, his rally'd again. To be brief, we were so tir'd with our former action and this too, that we had been absolutely vanquish'd, had not Amidor come to our Rescue; who having defeated those Assailants that had storm'd his Quarter, and learn'd the danger I was in, came with 1000 Men to my relief so seasonably, that it was when we fought not in hopes to avoid being defeated, but to avoid deserving to be so. This supply so disheartned Celindus, that he began to think of a Retreat, which almost as soon was put in practice: but the Enemy were much asto∣nish'd when they heard a hideous cry behind them, which was occasioned by some 500 Men that Amidor had sent secretly out of a Salliport, who un∣expectedly falling upon those that guarded the Breach, made them fly to Celindus for safety. We so husbanded this disorder, that we absolutely routed the Rebels; and the slaughter had been much bloodier, had not I been the occasion of hindring it; for during the Fight, I receiv'd some wounds, out of which ran such abundance of Blood, that in following the execution, I fell down pale and speechless, and suddenly a rumour being dispers'd that I was kill'd, Amidor, and all the rest were so much concern'd in my loss, that they neglected increasing Celindus's; who in our disor∣der found his safety. When Amidor and the rest of my Friends came to me, they saw me environ'd with dead Bodies, and with as little sign of life as those I was amongst, yet they carried me to my Chamber, and lay'd me on a Bed. The news of Celindus's defeat, and my death, came at the same time to the Palace, and as two contraries of equal strength, the one destroy'd what the other rais'd, onely the King and Altezeera (especially the latter) seem'd to be more concern'd in my loss than their own safeties. The former consider'd me as one, whose past service had render'd me considerable, and whose present condition made him think my help would have prov'd so, which were the grounds whereon he built his grief. But the latter, besides those considerations, added that of her Friendship (and perhaps affection) which drowned all the lesser ones, as the Stars are not seen when the Sun appears. The first thing she imagin'd (as she afterwards told me) was, that the gods had resolv'd to ruine her Family, and as an earnest thereof, had taken away the chief Supporter of it, (for that was the Title her Goodness gave me) to the end she submitted with much less reluctancy than to the means; But (as her mind was never at rest) she believ'd on the other side, that my death was the effect of her Cruelty and my despair; and then she abjur'd all those severe Laws, which under the name of a great distance in Blood, consines us to much greater from Felicity. The horror which invaded all her Faculties was very great, whilst she lookt upon herself as the cause of my death; but it was suddenly rais'd to a higher pitch; For when she was considering the sadness of her condition, she had withdrawn herself to a Window that look'd into the Court, where she had not been long, when she might perceive Amidor, and the rest of my Friends carrying me all pale and bloody towards my Chamber; That object having rais'd her grief to an incapacity of being rais'd higher, she suddenly accompany'd my loss with a flood of Tears, and having fetch'd two or three deep Sighs,

fell into a swound. (Happy Artavasdes, that by a suppos'd Death, discover'dst that Truth, which to have been certain of, thou would••st have purchas'd with a real one: But rather wretched Artivasdes, that thy Fate should be so different from thy desires, that whether living or dead, thou should'st always torment the fair Altezeera.) But the noise of which the Princess made by her fall, was the cause that some of her Servants ran to help her; who having employ'd all the Arts they knew (after an hour) reco∣ver'd her again. In the mean time, whither by the motion whilst I was carrying to my Chamber, or what other cause to ascribe it to I know not; but I was no sooner laid upon my Bed, than I began to give some signs of life, which Lindesia (who sat weeping by me) perceiving, began with raptures of joy to raise her hopes, and to imagine, that by the help of some able Chirurgions I might be recover'd, which being sent for and come, and having search'd my wounds and dress••d them, found they were ve∣ry dangerous, yet to console my Mother, told her they were ••urable; and having given me some Cordials which brought me to my self again, they withdrew themselves, The first thing I askt was, whither Altezee∣ra was in the possession of Celindus? To which Amidor (who had not stirr'd from my Bed-side) answer'd me she was not, and that we had ob∣tain'd so entire a Victory, that nothing could could it but the conditi∣on I was in. I lifted up my eyes and hands as my retribution to the gods, and conjur'd Amidor, that his Affection to me might not endan∣ger the Town, the preservation of which I now wholly left to his care, and that he would go to Artabazus and receive his orders, and assure Al∣tezeera, that nothing but the impossibility of not waiting upon her should have diverted me from that duty and happiness. Amidor to satisfie me, went unto the King, and told him how miraculously the gods had restor'd me to life, and that I had sent him to acquaint him with it, and to receive his commands whilst my weakness render'd me uncapable of that honor. Artabazus seem'd to be as much pleas'd as surpriz'd with this news, and would needs have gone and visited me; but Amidor told him, that I was but newly come to my self, and that the alteration which so great an ho∣nor would necessarily produce might be prejudicial to my health; therefore humbly besought him to delay that high favour till I were in a condition fitter to receive it. The King at last yielded to Amidor's request, and committed the charge of Artaxata to him, who immediately went to Altezeera's Chamber, and sent in to desire the honor of speaking to her. This message exceedingly perplext her, for she imagin'd he came to accuse her of being my Murtherer (for she had not yet heard I was alive) and in a manner acknowledging herself guilty of it, she knew not with what face to entertain him; yet at last she sent him an admittance, knowing that the sight of her grief would rather make him pity than condemn her. (But you may wonder (generous Artabanes) continu'd Artavasdes) that Altezeera should believe my Brother knew my Passion. To which I an∣swer, That Amidor and I had so perfect a Friendship, that she believ'd I had nothing of reserve for him, neither indeed had I. Altezeera who lay upon her Bed, (and who had sent all her Servants out, that none might be witness of that freedom which she resolv'd to give her sorrows, and entertain Amidor with) no sooner saw him come, but with Eyes full of Tears she told him, Are the gods then, Amidor, so much declar'd our Enemies, as to rob us of Artavasdes? I say our Enemies; for tyes of Friend∣ship are as great as those of Blood; and as you had the honor to be al∣ly'd unto him by the latter quality, so I had the satisfaction to possess

him in the former. Alas! How dear have we bought our instant safety? 'Tis by a loss that nothing could augment but our outliving it. She would have proceeded in this sad, and pleasing language, had not her Sighs and Tears hinder'd its continuance; which speechless Orators so well acted their parts, that though Amidor knew their cause was groundless, yet it was impossible for him to abstain from keeping her company; which she perceiving, forced herself to tell him. No, no, Amidor, it is I that am onely guilty, and should onely bear the punishment; my cruelty is the source of all our miseries, but I will take so severe revenge upon my self for it, that you shall say, though I knew not how to recompence Love, yet I knew to punish Ingratitude. But Amidor, who was confident that this discovery of Altezeera's affection would be more powerfull towards my cure than all other remedies, thought it high time to disabuse her, and therefore told her, Madam, Artavasdes is too much your Servant to leave this World without your permission, your commands exacted that at his hands, and the gods who knew how how just it was for him not to dis∣obey you, have restor'd him to life, but it will not onely last long enough to beg your leave to dye, if you are resolv'd to neglect and scorn his Passion. How! (said the Princess, starting up) does Artavasdes live? This delusion, Amidor, this delusion cannot last, do not flatter me into a Joy, which, if not real, will make my misery the geater; it cannot be, I saw him dead. Madam (Amidor reply'd) would he were as certain you would not scorn his Adoration, as I am that he lives to pay it you, his happiness would be then greater than your doubts. My happiness, said Altezeera would be as great as my torment, could I but credit what you say. Madam (said Amidor) if you suspect this truth, your eyes may give you that satisfaction which my words cannot, by my waiting on you to his Chamber, where your suspitions will soon vanish. I accept your of∣fer (said the Princess, abandoning her Bed, and giving Amidor her hand to lead her thither) for I can have no quiet whilst I have any doubts. ut, Madam, (said my Brother) let me beg you to leave all your disdain be∣hind you; for the least quantity of that poyson kills all his hopes, and conse∣quently himself; 'tis not now with him as at other times, where rigour did appear Justice, his sufferings and services now stile it Ingratitude, though he gives it still the former name, and onely expects his felicity from your goodness, not his condition. So high a Modesty (said Altezeera) merits an equal Reward, and I should be too unjust should I deny it him. By this time they were come unto my Chamber, and finding none in it but one of my Pages, Amidor commanded him out, and opening the Cur∣tains, told me the Princess was come to visit me. The sight of so high a Beauty produc'd a proportionate effect; for before she was come in, I could not turn in my Bed, but now I did towards her, and with a firm voice told her, At last (Madam) at last the gods have heard my Prayers, and commiserating my condition, have made my Enemies swords more pitiful than you; they have given me that death you were pleas'd to deny me, and in so blest away, that 'tis in defending and not dis∣obeying you; so that nothing could add unto this Felicity, but that I had deferr'd receiving of these charitable Wounds till the last day of the War, that you might have had no further use of my services, and that your security and my quiet might have been establisht at one time: But, Madam, since the gods do call me from you sooner, I conjure you to re∣member I dy'd serving you, and let that extinguish your resentments against an ambition which cannot be greater than was the impossibility of avoid∣ing

it. Alas, Artavasdes (said Altezeera) think not of dying, the gods who have already rais'd you from Death to Life will perfect that good work: They are too just to rob us of you. They would be too cruel Madam (said I) did they restore me to my health; Your Disdain pre∣pares me torments so great, that Death is a comparative happiness unto them. But, Madam, I do beg your pardon, you commanded me not to trouble you any more with my Passion, and I'll obey you, onely let me beseech you to receive these importunities as my last Crimes, and upon that score to forgive them; for I vow never to offend you more. Nor I (said the fair Altezeera) to receive your addresses as an offence: No (Ar∣tavasdes) your Virtue has obtain'd the Victory, and I command you now to live, that I may shew you by my affection I know how to value and recom∣pence yours. Alas, Madam, (I reply'd) What do you do? You may in∣deed by this art hinder my death awhile; but as soon as I discover I am deluded, by all that is most Sacred, I will not live a minute: Take heed, fair Princess, you may do like a merciful Judge, who when the Delinquent's ripe for Death, and made his peace with Heaven, by giving him a pardon, his future courses may be more criminal than his precedent ones, and thereby make that which was intended for his good, the occasion of his greater ill. Banish those groundless fears (said Altezeera) for my intentions are as clear as you persuade me your Flame is, and as a confirmation of it, I engage my self before Amidor, never to decline what I have promis'd. Ah! Madam (I reply'd) Why am I not in a condition to fling my self at your feet as some expression of joy, which certainly cannot kill, since I am yet alive: But, my Princess, give me leave not onely to call Amidor, but the gods to witness, that I will never decline the Passion that I pay you, but will maintain my Flame alive even in the Grave; for ha∣ving vanquisht your Disdain, it cannot be overcome; and if ever I alter this profession, make my future punishment equal to my present felicity. As I had done speaking, Lindesia came into the room, and my Princess having commanded my Love to be as silent as constant, withdrew herself, and left me in such extasies of joy, that they had like to have made me ever uncapable of any; for all my wounds fell fresh a bleeding, and I was so taken up with my present raptures, that had not Lindesia been more careful of me than I was of my self, I had dyed in, and by them; but ha∣ving discover'd that my sheets were all bloody, she came running to me, and so timely, that the least delay had render'd her care fruitless: But my wounds being again bound up, they enjoin'd me to take my rest, as the best and easiest cure. Thus, my dear friend, you see how at last my desires were crown'd, and little obstacle remain'd to the perfection of my happiness, but my health, which by degrees I recover'd, and that which contributed most unto it was, the daily visits of the fair Altezeera, whose conversation charm'd my ears as much as her Beauty did my eyes, and every hour discovering new perfections, I blest that suffering which had given me so high an interest in them. My wounds which admitted of forty dayes for their cure, did little afflict me, because the Enemy never attempted any thing during that space against Artaxata, which was oc∣casion'd by those wounds Celindus had receiv'd in the Assault; in which also he had lost so many Men, and so many others were render'd useless; that whilst he was recovering he sent Phanasder for a Recruit, and had drawn his Aamy some twenty Furlongs from the Town, contenting himself to block it up at so civil a distance. But as if For∣tune believ'd it necessary that nothing should be done whilst the chief

Actor in either side was unable to appear; she so order'd all things, that at the same time I was perfectly cur'd, Celindus was so too, and Phanasder came to the Camp with a supply of near Ten thousand Horse and Foot: So considerable an addition rais'd Celindus his hopes, and being ambiti∣ous to recover his losses, and to employ the fury of those new Men on some design where disadvantage of being repuls'd could not be so preju∣dicial as the honour of success would be glorious, elected the storming again of Artaxata, as most proportionate to his Revenge and Ambiti∣on; and having made his chief Officers approve of his design, he gave order that all things should be in a readiness for so bold an one. But whilst Celindus was troubling himself to be Conqueror of a Town, I was so in my affection, and was more satisfyed in my Victory, than he could have been in his, had his pride and designes arriv'd at their ambition'd peri∣od. O Gods! what uninmaginable joys doe mutual fires create in Love; at least mine were so great, that whereas in other affairs the ignorance of things hinders us from describing them; here the knowledge of them pro∣duc'd the same effect: In brief, our Passions so increast, that we thought all conversation but our own was as troublesome as that was pleasing; and therefore studied how to be private without discovering that Flame, which we at least as much endeavor'd to preserve so, till a fit opportu∣nity were offer'd to move Artabazus to unite our hearts by an Hyme∣naeal tye as firmly, as they were already join'd by sympathy and inclina∣tion. One morning whilst the Sun was yet but rising, I waited upon my Princess into a Garden of Pleasure, contiguous to the Palace, and adorn'd with all that Nature and Art was capable of; there the Com∣pany separating themselves to take that divertisement which was most agreeable to their fancies; Altezeera and I by degres left those that wait∣ed on us, and entring to an earnest discourse, we engag'd our selves un∣awares into a little Wilderness, in the center whereof was a spring, whose water was receiv'd into a Cistern of Alabaster, which was held by a statue of a Nymph cut in white Marble; There we might perceive a Gentleman whose postures as well as actions exprest his troubles; and though we could not discover his face, yet we might his tears running down it into the Cistern, and in such abundance, as if the Fountain and his eies strove which should most load the fair Nymphs Arms. Such an unexpected ac∣cident had made us desire to learn the cause of it, and fetching a small com∣pass by the help of some Orange Trees, we came so near, that without being seen we might see him and hear him; and as his mind was exceed∣ingly agitated, so we were not long in expectation, till we heard him fetch a deep sigh, and then casting up his eyes to Heaven, cry'd out; Mi∣serable Amidor (for 'twas he indeed) shall not the Divinity which dwells upon her face, thy friendship, nor his engagements suppress thy Passion? Shall the highest Beauty make thee commit a resembling Crime? O no, ra∣ther than interrupt so pure a Love deprive thy self of Life, and by a glori∣rious Death settle their quiet, and confer on thy self thine own. Then he paus'd awhile, and suddenly striking his hand upon his breast; he sigh'd, and said: O—it cannot be—her eyes inspire no Flames which reason can extinguish, he knows their power is not to be resisted, and being in∣structed with the cause, if he be reasonable, he cannot blame the effect: and if he be not, he is not worthy of thy friendship: but alas, thou talkest as if he were the onely obstacle, when thy own defects will perhaps more fight against thee, than thy fidelity unto thy friend, or thy Mistresses to him. Then weeping awhile, he continu'd; What? shall the appre∣hension

of ill, make thee as miserable as the real ill? Fie (Amidor:) can a courage capable of loving her, be capable of fear? No: 'tis not in thy nature nor thy custom to apprehend, but this timerousness is the effect of thy treachery to thy friend, and since the gods so punish the thoughts of wickedness, how much more will they the wickedness it self? Cast away then so criminal a Passion, or if that be impossible, at least by con∣cealing of it, so torment thy self, that if before, or after thy death they discover it, they may rather pity than condemn thee. Having so said, he borrow'd some of that water he had given the Nymph, and having washt his eyes, that they might not betray what he resolv'd to keep se∣cret, he went away, but not in a greater trouble than he left Altezeera and I in, for we found by his discourse, that the object of his Love was to the object of his friends, and that his friendship and affection were the causes of so noble and sad a conflict; But we could not sufficiently admire his resolution, which we esteem'd so generous, that we assur'd our selves, a reward equal to his virtue would crown it: and being both much concern'd in him, we determin'd by a curious inspection into all his actions to discover who they were that caus'd his disorder, but if that course did not succeed, then by acquainting him with what we knew, engage him to tell us what we were ignorant of, that we might employ our selves the better to serve him. In this design we return'd to the Palace, where we found that ma∣ny of the Inhabitants of Artaxata had petition'd to Artabazus to commi∣serate their condition, since by their wants they were reduc'd to such mi∣sery, that if by some means, a Peace were not concluded with Celindus, or the Siege rais'd, they must yield to him rather than to Famine. The per∣usal of this Paper, much perplext the King, as well from the considera∣tion of his Subjects wants, as the knowledge of their impudence, and the fear of their treachery; but before he made them any return, he consul∣ted with those about him, who were all (except Crasolis) of opinion, that a mild answer should be given them, and by kind usage and assuran∣ces of a speedy remedy to all their grievances, endeavor to keep them within the limits of their duty; But Crasolis, whom we too apparently suspected was a friend to Celindus, represented, that under the formal hu∣mility of a Petition there might be treachery conceal'd; that the not sup∣pressing of such insolent demands in their very birth, would authorize their growth; that lenity insuch a case would appear fear, and that would introduce a ruine: That if (on the other side) a vigorous remedy were apply'd, it would not onely extinguish the first sedition, but deter the people from a second: and therefore he was of opinion, that some of the chiefest contrivers of the Petition should be instantly executed in the Court of the Palace. Thus Crasolis would have rais'd the Kings Enemies within the Walls, as well as without, that Celindus might make use of the disorder; yet he would have that pass for his courage and honesty, which indeed was his treachery. But the moderate advice took place, and the people, upon the Kings engagement of soon remedying their miseries, return'd with bles∣sings for him, whose ruine was design'd by Crasolis in their petitioning. The night which succeeded this day was not half spent, when the ad∣vancing of Celindus's Army to Storm Artaxata the second time, gave us a hot alarum; but being advertis'd of his design, he found us prepar'd to oppose it. Perhaps he thought that darkness would be more favoura∣ble to his Arms than light, that his Men not seeing the danger, would go more resolutely on it, or that the enterprize would be more formidable unto us, when obscurity (the ingenderer of confusion) was join'd to the

horror of an Assault. But my dear Artabanes, I will not so much tres∣pass on your Civility as to particularize all the accidents which hap∣pen'd in that bloody Night; it shall suffice to tell you, that after the Town was won and lost three times, we at last remained the Possessors of it, (though it cost us much blood, and the Enemy more) but that which brought us so often into hazard, was, That Artaxata was twice set on fire, by the treachery of those within, which requiring many hands to quench it, robb'd us of so many hands for our defence. Some Prisoners that we took acquainted us who were the Traytors, which be∣ing seiz'd upon, confest their Crime, and receiv'd the punishment it de∣serv'd: There was also one of the Prisoners that being upon the point of death, and repenting his Rebellion, sent to me, and to discharge his Con∣science, assur'd me, that Celindus had a friend in the Kings Council, who gave him a constant intelligence of our proceedings; but he could not inform me of his name, yet by some circumstances, I was fully satis∣fi'd that it was Crasolis; but the King believ'd him both so honest and so able, that if he had merited as well the first of those attributes as the last, Artabazus had been as happy as he was deceiv'd in him; But he pos∣sest the King so absolutely, that he onely lookt through his eyes, and heard but with his Ears, which excess of favour that perfidious man hus∣banded to his own, not his Kings advantage. Celindus, who perceiv'd that force was unsuccesful, and that two assaults had cost him near 7000 Men, lost all hopes of taking Artaxata by Storm, and therefore began to make his Approaches, and endeavor to possess himself of that by in∣dustry and time, which valour had deny'd him; but not wholly to re∣ly upon the blind events of War, he design'd to attempt something by Treaty; and lest that moderate way might appear to his Army the ef∣fects of fear and despair, he cloath'd it with a pretence of rendring us thereby the more secure, and consequently the more surprizable, or if his overtures were yielded unto, they should bring as much advantage to his party as a Conquest could. This opinion carried so good an appea∣rance with it, that he obtain'd his Armies concurrence. But the great ha∣zard Artaxata was in, in the two precedent Assaults, and the scarcity of Victuals which now began somewhat to afflict the Inhabitants (though not in so high a degree by as much as was represented to Artabazus) gave Celindus's Partizans too plausible a rise to renew their former requests, and to put the King in mind of his engagement of soon ending their mi∣series by Treaty or Force. The multitude much discontented by the length of the Siege, greedily laid hold of the exhortation, and came far more numerous to the Palace than the first time; the King having receiv'd their Petition (as his custom was) assembled his Council, to give them an an∣swer; And the fair Altezeera, whose Virtue and Birth gave her an equal interest in the Publick, was by the Kings command at that consultation, where whilst we were debating of an answer for the Petitioners, an Officer came to give me notice that a Trumpet, with a Gentleman sent from Celindus, desir'd admittance, having some things of high concern∣ment to offer, touching a happy Peace. The King thought this a fit oc∣casion to defer giving the people an answer, and commanded them to retire, which they did, but with bitter execrations, that if they had not a speedy return, and proportionate to their demands, they would act that which they onely mention'd in their former Petition. Crasolis omitted not to take notice of that insolent expression, but the people being gone, there arose a dispute, whether the Gentleman employ'd

from Celindus should be admitted. Those that were of that opinion, for∣tified it by representing▪ that the Laws of Custom, and of Nations, allow'd Princes to hear the desires of their rebellious Subjects, otherwise the War would never determine, but by the absolute extirpating of the offenders, where the expence of Treasure, the hazard, and the time, would not be repaid, were the victory never so perfect. That it might be Celindus would propound some conditions which would suit with his own interest, and the Kings too; That if his motions were not heard, the people might be possest they owed their ruine to the Kings wilfulness, and that they were much more humble and reasonable, than perhaps they really were; that his Affirmative being not to be confuted by any apparent proof, might pass for currant, and the Armenians thereby enraged, might run to the last extreams; That the Propositions must be reasonable or unreasonable, if the first, then to be embrac'd, if the latter, then to be rejected; and by a Declaration convince the World that they were so, and finally by demon∣strating the insolency of his demands, confirm Subjects in their Loyalty, and satisfy strangers with the equality of their proceeding. Those that were of a contrary judgement, alledged, That the Law of Custom in ad∣mitting Rebels to capitulate with their Princes, was not binding in it self, but onely as far as advantages might be derived from it; that Celindus his craft and wickedess were so great, that the first gave as little Hope of obtaining any advantage by Treaty, as the latter of enjoying it, if obtain'd. That no miseries which could befall a King▪ by being overcome by his Subjects, could equal the infamy of yielding to them, since the first is an act that the gods force him unto, but the other a misery he throws himself upon, and he is more justly to be con∣demn'd, that makes himself the instrument of his own ruine, than he who is found to be made so by a power he cannot resist; that by rejecting his demands, the people will probably assure themselves, that Artabazus is in a good condition, and that he has some certainties of a speedy and sure relief, since otherwise he would not decline any overture of Agreement; That this will invite their patience, and continue their Loyalty; That the state of affairs were not so low, as to act those things which necessi∣ty onely can render legitimate; That to divulge his overtures, might prove ruinous, how insolent soever they were, for if they offer'd peace upon any Terms, the people who judge of the goodness of the offer, by the benefit which they derive from it, will think their ease cannot be too dearly purchast, and thereby make that which is design'd to engage them more vigorously in the Kings service, the way to make them all embrace Celindus's, But not withstanding these Arguments, the King inclin'd to the first opinion, and the Gentleman being admitted, he presented the King, upon his knees, a Letter from Celindus, and being order'd to withdraw, Artabazus open'd it, and commanding it to be read, found in it these en∣suing words.

CELINDVS Prince of SACACENE, to his Soveraign ART ABAZVS, King of both the Armenians.

THE god's shall bear me witness with how much sorrow I have consider'd the goodness of your disposition, so highly misled and abused by the sub∣tilty and wickedness of Anexander, and with what reluctancy (having fruitlesly attempted all other means to free you from so low a subjection) I have been necessitated to make use of force. I conjure also the same gods to make me the object of their fury, if having your engagement for the banishing of An∣exander, and all those whom he has infected with his Principles, and the gi∣ving the Princess Altezeera to Palisdes, I do not instantly lay down Arms, and count it more glorious, to return to my first Quiet and Condition, than to possess as many Crowns, as you have Subjects; and as the former of these is the onely way to put the affairs of this Kingdom in a right temper; so the latter is the only means to confirm and settle them in it. I shall therefore humbly beg you so to consider of this request, as that it may not produce a de••ial; but by granting it, remove all the distractions of your Subjects whose misery, by the continuance of a War, must be cast upon your score, and whose redress shall be the intent endeavours of

CELINDUS.

THe Letter was no sooner ended, but some of the Council repre∣sented to the King, that the requests were as unpardonable as he that made them, and that though they had not been so, yet they might have been more aptly offer'd before he had attempted any violence against him or Artaxata, That being made after, they were to be lookt upon as the effects of his despair, not to that pretext he seem'd to cloak them withal; That Anexander was the chiefest Pillar that sustain'd his greatness, which made Celindus so earnest to remove him, thereby more secretly to ruine it, and that to sacrifice so faithful a Servant to Celindus's ambition, was under the appearance of banishing but one Man, effectu∣ally to seduce most men; who seeing Virtue was ruinous, would find suf∣ficient motives in their nature, as well as interest to make them decline it; That to deterr Celindus from storming any more Artaxata, 'twould be fit to give him advertisement, that Palisdes should be exposed to all the Darts and Arrows that were flung or shot at those defended it; To which last motion Amidor reply'd, That it were not onely to wrong our courages, but to make Celindus believe our condition was very low, when we elected, for our preservation, courses that were so much so; that if he were repulst, he might perswade his Men, he ow'd the Affront not to our valours, but to his fears of destroying Palisdes, whereas 'twere wiser (as well as more generous) to purchase our securities by our virtue, which would, in his first attempt, cut off all his hopes of a second. This was much controverted, but at last, Crasolis made this ensuring Speech; Sir, As I cannot look upon your present condition without great horror, so I cannot without a resembling joy, consider, that there is yet some overtures made, by which you may be preserved from ruine; for indeed 'tis a signal mercy of the gods, that Celindus, who has had so much wick∣edness,

as to act what he has done, should not carry on his design to the uttermost, but that his power being boundless, his ambition should yet put limits to its self, and offer to be contented with a part from you, when by himself he might possess the whole: But Sir, as those Gentlemen which have spoken already, do well observe, we shall pay dear for this peace; 'tis true, but yet, if we accept not of it, we are like to pay dearer for a War. I must confess, to banish Anexander, goes as much against my Reason as Inclination, and to sacrifice so generous a Subject to a Re∣bel, is to make us hereafter embrace Vice for our Interest, To give the Princess too unto Palisdes, is that which will render our sorrow, as great as is Celindus's ambition in demanding her, or Palisdes happines would be in possessing her. These Sir, are the effects that will proceed from grant∣ing his Requests, but alas, what will be the Miseries that attend a refusal of them? Anexander, instead of banishment, to be murther'd before your eyes, Altezeera forc'd to be Palisdes Wife, your own Life made an Obla∣tion for the assurance of Celindus's, your faithful Servants expos'd to tor∣ments as great, as their Fidelity merits recompence, and in a word, your Kingdom suffers miseries sufficient (if rightly plac't) to punish the crimes of those that are the causers of them. But (Sir) as we have seen the inconveniences of granting his demands, through the optick of our a∣verseness to the action, so let us consider them, in their last formidable dress. To consent then to Anexanders banishment, if you look upon it, as in relation to your self, is, by being depriv'd of his conversation (it may be too but for a short while) to settle the quiet, of your people, and free your self from apparent ruine; if in respect of him, I knew his ge∣nerous disposition so well, that he will imbrace his retirement as his hap∣piness, being your Majesty and your Kingdom will derive theirs from it. To give Altezeera to Palisdes, methinks has nothing in it of so much ill, as the being forced unto it; for Palisdes Person and Birth are eminent, and all his actions and inclinations generous, except this last, where his Fathers Commands, and not his own Desires have made him faulty, and when Crimes do bear the name of Duty, they are fitter to be pardon'd than con∣demn'd, being the effects of a noble cause; and if his highest Vice be his Obedience to his Father, what will then his Vertues prove? The Prin∣cess too, not being engag'd to any, may, with less reluctancy, give her self to Palisdes, whose Youth is so promising, that 'tis probable she may esta∣blish her own felicity, by restoring that of the Armenians, and instead of the giving a portion with her, you may receive a Kingdom by giving of her, (for so I look upon it, as the state of your affairs now stand) in a word, when I consider that we hear not so much as hopes from Anexan∣der: when I see Celindus with a powerful Army under your Walls; and when I came but even now from hearing those within them (whom too you rely upon for your preservation) threaten, nay swear to deliver you up to your Enemies, with execrations, which give me as much horror to relate, as if they executed them; I cannot, though with sadness above description, but give my humble opinion, that Celindus should have his Request granted. Many of those that were guilty of Crasolis Crimes, and of Fear, so fortified his opinion by divers other arguments, and by their concurrence, that I found Artabazus yielding. Great gods! who could then relate the several disorders I was in? but alas they were nothing then, to what they did increase unto, when I read upon my Princesses Face, the Indignation which such Councils had raised in her; the sight of which made me address my self to the King, in a posture that did some∣thing

speak my resentment, and tell him. Sir, That Celindus who has had the impudence to take up Arms against you, should demand the Princess for Palisdes is not strange, but that any Loyal Armenian should advise you to grant it, is that I cannot sufficiently wonder at: the best con∣struction I can make of those, who are of that opinion is, that their fears exceed their judgements (may be their honesty.) Shall his defeats be the steps to his ambition? and shall our having given them drown our Cou∣rages? the gods forbid: But Sir, allow we were as low as these Mens spirits are, which gave that counsel, what heavier yoke can we groan under, than that we would now submit unto: shall our fears give that to Celindus which his Courage ne'r could purchase? and shall we by a pre∣posterous apprehension, count all those deliverances the gods have hi∣therto sent us, as so many Omens of our ruine? or else Sir, have these Men seen any coldness in our courages, on which they build their despair? if not; why do they so much wrong them? what, shall Altezeera, who is a recompence too high for Vertue, be a sacrifice unto Rebellion? O Sir! do not by such a recompence, invite your Subjects in the future to revolt: what guilt can be so ugly that such a reward will not invite us to imbrace? let us not then by contributing unto the Crime, make our selves worthy of the punishment; not let these mens timerousness per∣swade you to that, which if once acted, the gods must never after protect you, unless they have design'd to appear as unjust as they would have you be to your self and the Princess, who are more threaten'd by their fears, than our condition. But as I was going to continue my discourse upon those subjects that related to the suppressing of the mutinous people, and my Fathers particular, a Gentleman came in and told Artabazus, there was one which wore Celindus Colours, being well mounted, was scap'd from the Camp, and though followed by five or six of the Enemy, had recover'd the Port, and begg'd earnestly to be presented to the King, alledging that it was about affairs of high concernment, and which could admit of no delay. Artabazus commanded forthwith, that he should be brought in. The Man no sooner heard the permission, (for he waited at the door) than he flung himself at the Kings feet, and told him, Sir, Anexander, af∣ter a thousand difficulties, which nothing could render supportable, but the consideration of him for whose sake he endured them, has brought an Army of 30000 Men into Thospia, where a violent Feaver, (envious of his glory) has flung him into his Bed, and though his torments are very great, yet he resents none so fully as those which proceed from the impossibility of his serving you in person: but since his fatal sickness (as if all things had contributed to increase that misfortune) there has hap∣pen'd so high a dispute betwixt Stratolis and Falintus, who should have the happiness to command the Army for your relief; that some sad events are thereby already fall'n out, and hourly will be augmented, unless Ar∣tavasdes (who they all beg for their General, during Anexanders indispo∣sition) be instantly sent to take the charge of the War, and lest your Ma∣jesty should doubt the truth of what I now deliver, I shall humbly desire you to peruse this Ticket, which being presented, we found 'twas sign'd and written by Anexander, and onely begg'd the King to credit what∣soever he should relate. The joy we all receiv'd at the assurance of so powerful an Army's being ready to relieve us, did mitigate our sorrow, at the hearing of Anexanders not being able to Head it. But Artabazus and the Council, (to lose no time) thought best to dispatch Celindus's Mes∣senger without the honour of an Answer, which they concluded was the

fittest they could return his ambitious desires, and to send me that night away, though the wicked Crasolis oppos'd the latter, alledging, that the Town would doubtless be lost, if I were once out of the Walls, that pro∣bably I might be taken or kill'd, endeavouring to pass the Enemies Guards, that then, not onely Artaxata, but the Army would lose its Head, and chief Defender, and therefore he was of opinion, 'twere better to send a Commission joyntly to Stratolis and Falintus to command the Army, than to expose all to so great a hazard. This advice was not given out of any affection to the publique, or my particular, but that he believ'd, by joyn∣ing of Stratolis and Falintus, there would arise such distractions, as Celin∣dus might injoy the advantages of them. But (as I told you, this Coun∣cil at that present took not place, and to omit no opportunity, I went to take leave of the King. and assur'd him, that within fourteen days, I would either make him absolute Monarch again, or by my death evince that 'twould not be the defect of my desire, but of my Power; and since the time was so short, I begg'd him to give me an assurance, that he would not (before those days were efflux'd) admit of any Treaty with Celindus. The King having satisfy'd my request, embrac'd me very affectionately, and conjur'd me not to fail at the time appointed, lest the people should force him to accept of those conditions, his Reason and Inclination made him equally detest, which having faithfully promis'd, I went to my Prin∣cesses Chamber, who not being able to conceal her grief, had commanded all her servants out of the room, and lay upon a Bed, abandoning her self so excessively to sorrow, that I surpriz'd her in the greatest height of hers, and told her, Madam, if I could admit any doubts of an ill success, where your safty is concern'd, so bad an Omen as your sadness is would infuse them into me. To which she answer'd, I must confess, Artavasdes, that when I consider the many dangers you must expose your self unto, and the many more that you will, I find my Tears so just, that I esteem it a sin to redeem them, neither can you believe the assurances I have given you of my affection to be as real as indeed they are, without consider∣ing my grief, as a necessary Tribute of my Love, and not an Omen of your ill success. My Princess (I reply'd) your sadness could not but kill me, did I not look upon it as the effect of so happy a cause, but pardon me if my zeal to you be so great, that I even condemn the demonstrations of my own felicity, when they prove troublesome to you. Alas, said Alte∣zeera, what would you have me do? not to deplore your absence, is in∣consistent with my affection, and to do it, is prejudicial to your content∣ment, but since 'tis impossible to suppress the first, at least by a quick re∣turn, make the last cease, which can admit of no ease, during your absence Madam (I reply'd) the gods shall be my witness; that I will neglect no time, nor shall any thing but death hinder me above fourteen days from coming to adore you at your feet: Celindus and his Army shall feel what fury possesses me at this separation, and my their sufferings know, how dangerous it is to oppose Artavasdes, when Altezeera's safety is the quar∣rel. But, said the Princess (interrupting me) take heed you do not so much trust your courage, as not to consult your judgement, and to miti∣gate that heat which may prove so fatal to us both, remember that what Artavasdes suffers, Altezeera does, and as you love her life, preserve your own. I should be too prolix my dear Artabanes, should I tell you all the words that sad farewell furnisht me with, I will therefore hasten to a con∣clusion, and onely let you know, that having kist my fair Princess hand, I took leave of her, and then of Amidor; to whom I left the care of

Artaxata, and what I valu'd infinitely above it, and having given a hot alarm to every quarter of the Camp, but that through which I past, I ar∣riv'd in two days after at Thospia, where I found Anexander in much danger, by the violence of his Feaver, who haing commanded me to leave the care of him unto the gods, and to imploy all mine for the Kings deliverance, I forthwith acquainted the Army with my Commission, who joyfully re∣ceiv'd me, and lest delays might prove prejudicial, we marched with what expedition possibly could be made, towards Artaxata, and the tenth day after my departure from thence, I camped thirty Furlongs off Celindus, up∣on a Hill, within sight of the Besieged, where having call'd a Council of War, by their consents, I sent a Trumpet to him with this ensuing chal∣lenge.

ARTAVASDES to CELINDVS.

DId not your taking up of Arms against your King assure me, that you be∣lieve there are no gods to punish wickedness; I should despair of your accepting a pitcht Battel for the ending of the War, lest terrified by the Divine Iustice, your guilt should weigh down your Sword: but your rebellion de∣monstrates, that you believe no Deity but Power, and since your Courage is the best of your Qualities; I should gladly receive an assurance, that to save many a thousand lives, you would venture your own against me in a single combat. But whether by Battel or Duel, I leave it to your choice, either of which shall be highly acceptable, as an assured way to punish Celindus, by the hand of

ARTAVASDES.

CElindus having perus'd my Letter, thought fit to give me Battel, knowing that his Army could have no Provisions but what they fought for, and that Artaxata had so good a Garrison, and my Forces were so numerous, that if he defeated not the one, or took the other, he must in a short while, be blockt up, and then his party which follw'd his fortune, not him, would desert him; therefore thinking my defeat would be more facile, than taking the Town by Storm, he sent me this Answer;

CELINDVS to ARTAVASDES.

I Accept of the Battel, that the gods by your defeat may declare they are as just, as you think me the contrary. To morrow by the Suns rising, I shall be in the adjoyning Plain, at the head of Fifty thousand Men, who are too greedy of Honour to suffer me by a single Combat, to rob them of their share in the glo∣ry of an entire Victory, which will be as certainly ours, as that you have an Enemy of

CELINDUS.

THe Trumpet being return'd with this pleasing Answer, I found that nothing but the gaining of a Battel could more satisfy my Army, than the assurance of one, which being suddenly to ensue, every one was employ'd in performing what was fit for so considerable a day, which

no sooner appear'd, but both Armies marcht out of their several Camps, and being drawn up, expected onely the signal to begin the Fight: Ce∣lindus, who knew that his Fortune depended upon the gaining or losing of that Field, had left no Forces to justify the ground he had won by approaches, being assur'd, that if he were Conqueror, Artaxata, without the formalities of a Siege, would be one of the first Fruits of his Victory; yet to delude those of the Town, and to keep them from sallying, he left as many Colours flying as were usually upon the Guards, with certain Men well mounted, who had order (in case of a Sally, to run away with them unto their Army. A little before the Battel, Celindus made a Speech to his Soldiers, and I to animate mine, told them these few words. Friends, and Companions in Arms, I speak unto you more out of custom than need; if I thought any thing could raise your courages above that which nature has, I might represent unto you the justice of the War, the glo∣rious objects for whom you are now to decide it, your Wives, your Fa∣milies, and your Liberties, who all expect their settlement from your Swords: There is something too above all this, which I might mention (for these must dye with you, sometimes before you) 'tis Honour, which is eternal, and will make your memories precious to posterity, when other things will be forgotten, and turn'd into dust. But (my generous Friends) I see so noble a resolution in every one, that I will no longer detain you from that Victory, which your Cause and Looks assure me of. These words being finisht, I advanc'd with the right wing of my Horse, and so vigorously charged the Enemies left, that we instantly routed them, and had an Execution as bloudy as their crimes deserv'd: But Celindus, who led the right wing of his Army, wherein he had plac'd the gallantest of his Cavalry, fell so vigorously upon Stratolis, who commanded my left, that after a small resistance (Stratolis being kill'd) Celindus made many others follow his fate, to redress which disorder, I left some few Troops to chase the scatter'd Rebels, and rallying the rest, ran to the rescue of my Friends, whom Celindus on my approach forsook, and having drawn up a second time, and learnt that it was I that came to fight with him; he advanced some hundred paces from his Body, and calling me out by name, told me, 'Tis now Artavasdes that I shall satisfy both your desires, I have yielded to a Battel, at the requests of my friends, who would not permit me to ingross that honour to my self, which by their valours, they were confident would be largely distributed amongst them: and now I seek a single combat to please my own inclination, to demand satisfacti∣on for Tuminius his Blood, and your insolent challenge. We were both so earnest to lose no time, that we spent no more in words, but began a Duel, in which the gods so favour'd the justice of my Sword, that Celin∣dus fell by it; but those Horse which were spectators of his death, so re∣solutely endeavour'd to revenge it, that it cost us dear before we could re∣duce them to what their valours merited, but not the quarrel in which they employ'd them. Whilst these things were thus acting, Phanasder and Falintus, who commanded the Foot of both Armies, had not been idle: but Falintus, who was over-power'd, after a vituous resistance, was ta∣ken by Phanasder, who, to shelter him from the fury of his Soldiers, had cover'd him with his own Body, and receiv'd some wounds that were de∣sign'd for his prisoner. Evaxes, after Falintus's misfortune, still disputed the victory, though his resistance proceeded more from his resolution than his numbers, which were so diminish'd, that he was just upon the point of being conquer'd, when a Body of about Fourteen hundred Horse, and

Four thousand Foot sallied out of Artaxata, and so opportunely on the Enemy, that it restor'd the courage of our fainting friends. Gods! what prodigies of Valour did I see their Leader act: He pierc'd the thickest Squadrons like Lightning, and, in a word, so chang'd the face of affairs, that Phanasder, from conquering began to defend himself; to effect which, he had gotten near Eight thousand of those who had most resolution, and having cast them into a square Body, resolv'd to ••ell his Life so dearly, that the Purchasers should repent the bargain. In this posture stood affairs when I came from defeating Celindus with nine thousand Horse, and all the Foot I could possibly rally, I confes, it pitty'd me to see so many Ar∣menians expos'd to death, whose courages deserv'd a fortune as good, as the condition they were then in, was the contrary, I therefore command∣ed all the Soldiers of my Army to draw off, that I might endeavour to save their Countrey-men. So pleasing an Injunction, obtain'd a ready obedience, and advancing near enough to be heard, I represented to them, that the care I had to make my Victory as little stain'd with Bloud, as the necessity of it would permit, made me offer them in Artabazus name, a ge∣neral Pardon, so they would lay down Arms, and ingage, by their future Loyalty, to efface their present want of it. They all answer'd me, that they had vowed their Lives and Fortunes to Phanasder, and what he thought good, they would submit unto. I then desir'd to speak with him, which he no sooner understood, than he came out unto me, all hideous with Bloud, and askt me what it was I would have. I told him, 'twas his, and the safety of those few the Sword had spar'd; That he had practis'd so much gallantry to Falintus, that it made me earnest to preserve the po∣sessior of it; and that the condition he was in, was so unfit for resistance, that the acting of his destruction, was easier than the desire of it. I am, said Phanasder (interrupting me) as much above your Power, as your Threa∣tening, for the gods which have been so cruel, have yet left me a Heart to desire death, and a Sword to act; for that which I have done to Fa∣lintus, 'twas the self-same honour guided me unto it, which makes me hate to owe my life unto my Enemy. How willingly (said I) would I change that name, and be esteem'd your Friend? to purchase it, I will confess, For∣tune, and your want of it, reduc'd you to what you are. I will engage my self to obtain for you, and those under you, an Act of Oblivion from the King, and I will onely beg that you will confer your friendship on me, which I will value at a higher rate than all the other Glory I shall de∣rive from this days success. 'Tis a strange thing how much civility works on a generous Mind; what the advantage I had over him, nor the fear of death cold act, my kindness did, which prov'd so prevalent, that fling∣ing away his Sword, he came to me, and embracing me, said; 'Tis now indeed Artavasdes, that I am vanquisht. Your goodness makes me con∣fess, that which your Sword, nor all the World besides could have per∣swaded me to. I should be now as unjust as you are generous; did I not with joy embrace a Friendship, which I will ever value above all things, but my Honour. After a thousand Embraces, and Assurances of an Eternal Friendship, Phanasder led me to the reliques of his Army, and command∣ed them to fling their Arms down at my Feet, to whom he said, they owed their lives, and many other expressions of a quality, too tedious to be related. Things being brought to this happy period, I left my Army in the Field, in which they had gained so much Glory, and taking Phanas∣der, and some twenty of my intimatest Friends, I gallopt to Artaxata, to give Altezeera and the King an account of our success, and to receive their

Orders; when we came to the Gates I found them shut, and having told the Guards who I was, they instantly admitted me, and inform'd me, the King and the Princess were Sacrificing for the Armies success: I went directly thither, and lighting at the door, all arm'd, sprinkled with Bloud, gave so hot an Alarm to the people, that they began with hide∣ous cries, to fly out of the Temple, imagining we were Celindus's Soldi∣ers, who having got the Battel, were come to seize upon the King, and that which more confirm'd them in their fears, was the sight of Phanasder, whose Face, (by the loss of his Helmet) was uncover'd, and the great shouts those of the Garrison made when they were inform'd, by some that came along with me, of our Victory. Artabazus all the while I was co∣ming towards him, was moveless as a Statue; but the fair Altezeera, no sooner saw me tread upon the first steps of the Altar, but drawing forth a Ponyard, which she had conceal'd for a last remedy, was lifting up her hand to have plung'd it into her Breast: but observing her design, I pre∣vented it by seizing that cruel weapon, and pulling off my Halmet; gods! what a sudden alteration did that action cause? it was so great, that the King, Altezeera, and all the company hearing at the same time of Celindus's his defeat, and death, did not then relish that happiness with so high a contentment, as they said it deserv'd. But at last their joy having dissi∣pated those Clouds, which fear had ingender'd, their contentment was proportionate to the change. Artabazus gave me all the testimonies of his favour he was capable of, but Altezeera did in such obliging terms, ex∣press her contentment and affection, that I was ravisht in the contempla∣tion of both. But after I had given the King and my fair Princess an Ac∣count of our success, I presented Phanasder unto Artabazus, and having acquainted him with my Engagements, and magnified his Gallantry, I not onely obtained what I had promis'd to him and his, but also Celindus his Government for him. That which made me so intent on Phanasders ad∣vantage, was the high opinion I had conceived of him, and the confidence I had, that it was grounded on a proportionate Justice. But amongst all those friends which came to congratulate my Victory, I mist my dear Amidor, and inquiring the cause of it, I learn'd, that the Forces which had sally'd out of the Town, were under his Command, that 'twas he had done such miracles, and that probably having follow'd the execution somewhat vigorously, he was not return'd to the Camp before my depar∣ture from it. I rested satisfied therewith, and receiv'd the Kings Orders to quarter about Artaxata, till he saw whether those Towns which had declared for Celindus, would return to their Loyalty without being forced unto it: And least any disorder might happen in the Army by my absence, I was going thither, when (alas) I met my poor Brother, mortally wound∣ed, carrying by to his Lodging: so sad an object soon clouded all my joy, and made me return with him, to know what I might expect of his fate. The ablest Chirurgeons being sent for, searched his wounds, and found they were incurable for their Art. But the generous Amidor per∣ceiving by their looks, our fears, seem'd to be as full of satisfaction, as we were really the contrary, and having conjur'd the Chirugeons to deal clearly with him, whether there were any likelyhood of recovery, he re∣ceiv'd from them a sad Negative. Then turning towards Lindesia, (who abandon'd her self to an excessive Grief) he begg'd her not to be more af∣flicted for his death, than he was for to dye; That it being a Tribute, hu∣mane nature was to pay, he was happy that it was in so good and glori∣ous a Cause. Then desiring all those that were in the room to leave it,

except Altezeera (who was come to visit him) and I, he addrest himself to us with an accent capable to inspire pity into a fury, and told us. Since my own weakness, as well as the Chirurgeons judgement, assure me I must dye, I have begg'd this opportunity to reveal a secret to you both, which no torment should have made me disclose, and which I am confi∣dent my Actions never did. Know then, to silence your sorrow, that these mortal wounds are the effects of my desire, and not my ill fortune, for it was necessary for your quiet, as well as mine, that I should receive them, since I could not resist the inevitable charms of Altezeera's Beauty: start not, Artavasdes, for by that time I have finisht my discourse, you shall have more cause to pity than condemn me: the highest Powers shall bear me witness, how much I did resist this criminal passion, how it forc't, not found an admittance, and when 'twas gotten in, how I purchast its silence by my torments; yet at last, finding it would be conqueror, I resolv'd to end my pain by death, which I sought so many several ways, that it must have been unjust, had I not found it out. You weep, fair Princess, is it for sorrow, that by dying, I shall be so soon freed from those sufferings my Crime deserves? the compassionate Altezeera, who all this while did melt away in Tears, perceiving he was silent, in expectation of her Answer, told him, alas Amidor, what actions have I ever committed, that you should judge me guilty of so high a cruelty? 'Twere more charitable, as well as just, to attribute these demonstrations of my grief, unto my pity, for your condition, which so abundantly deserves it. Why then Madam (reply'd Amidor) you can pity me, after the knowledge of my fault? Great gods! to what misery do you reduce me? thus to convert that which should be my greatest joy, into my greatest torment, and thereby render any satisfaction at my death as impossible, as I do ill deserve it; since not to receive her pardon, makes my death as full of horrors, as the cause of it is of Beauties; and to obtain it, makes my crime as great, as the per∣fection against which I have committed it. Ah Madam, dry up those pre∣cious drops, or else shed them to wash away my guilt, for certainly they are powerful enough to perform whatsoever you employ them for; And you my dear Brother, (addressing himself to me) can you have so much goodness to forgive your Rival, when 'twas not in his power to avoid that fatal Name? Look upon those bright Eyes, which certainly will at the same time that they acquaint you with my fault, acquaint you with the necessity of it, and obtain your pardon for it. You that know so well their influence, must withal, rather pity than condemn my submission to it. But I find death seizing on me; farewel happy Lovers, may Joyes, such as Raptures never reacht, wait on your Flames, may every thing contribute to make you as contented as I shall dye, having obtained your forgiveness, which I beg with Tears; and if they find you inexorable, I will with Bloud—Alas Amidor (I cry'd out) would it were as ab∣solutely in my Power to recover, as 'tis in my Will to forgive thee. Ah (said Amidor) talk not of recovery, I would rather be my own Execu∣tioner, than by living interrupt so pure a Passion; once again farewel, my summons is so short, I shall have onely time to beg you, never to think upon Amidor, cloath'd in his ambitious desires of possessing so Divine a Beauty, nor with his unavoidable infidelity to his Friend and Brother; But when you consider him, let it be in his pennance for his crimes, and let that voluntary death he has so resolutely expos'd himself unto, obtain that mercy for him, which he implores with his last breath; and so indeed it was, for having with one hand, taken the Princesses, and kist it, and

with the other embrac'd me, his fair Soul fled away, and left its noble dwelling in our Arms. Who can repeat the sad words so great a loss extorted from us, which really we found of such a quality, that we de∣spair'd to find a cure even from time. The King' and all those that were not enemies to vertue, did manifest a resembling sorrow, for his Youth was as promising as it was unfortunate. Here (said Artabanes to Callimachus) Artavasdes could not resfrain shedding some Tears, and perceiving I took notice of it; he begg'd my Pardon for so just an effeminacy, and then hasten'd to a conclusion in these words; Phanasder, who did now without reserve, embrace the Kings interest, was so prevalent with the revolted Towns, that Armauria, Artemita, and Tygranocerta it self, came upon their knees, and yielded up their Keys and Lives to the Kings Mercy, and in a word all the upper Armenia, from Niphates, did the like. But in the low∣er Armenia, Zenaxtus (a Brother of Celindus's) kept entire the Provin∣ces of Aerethica and Horzen, and the Towns of Satala, and Nicapolis, who for all Artabazus threatenings and promises, would not lay down Arms, but was preparing a vast Army to revenge his Brothers death, and to act his Brothers ambition: which to effect, he sent to Arsaces, to invade the higher Armenia, and assur'd him of a considerable Party appearing for him as soon as he should pass the River Tygris, and offer'd him all the Upper Armenia for his share, so that he might have the Lower for his own, which nevertheless he would do homage for. You know, my dear friend, that this overture was so listened unto by your King, that instantly he rais'd that great Army which defeated ours, more by our valour, than by those that follow'd you. Artabazus had some intelligence of Arsaces intentions, and to prevent them, thought fit to raise an Army, and carry the War into your Countrey, to keep his own quiet, at least, the Upper part of Armenia, and having given the Command of a numerous one to Anexander, who was perfectly recover'd, and order'd him to suppress Zenaxtus, he laid siege to Myramnes, where you came to raise it, and where I had the honour to become your Prisoner, which should be as pleasing to me as my Liberty, did not my passion for Altezeera, make all things that banish me from her, insupportable.

Thus the gallant Artavasdes finisht his story, and gave me by it, as much reason, as I had formerly inclination to love him. After some few expres∣sions of my esteem, both of his Passion and Vertue, I told him, 'tis with much difficulty, (generous Prince) that I condemn the cruelty of my King, being it furnishes me with an occasion to serve you; neither can you doubt, but I am more a friend to your satisfaction than my own, when I deprive my self of so great a blessing as your company, to restore you to the fair Altezeera's. Your Civility (reply'd Artavasdes) is so ob∣liging, that I must think any thing a misery, that forces me from being near the Possessor of it; and do therefore as much resent Arsaces injustice out of that consideration, as commend my good Fortune, for making it the means of sending me to my Princess. After a Million of inviolable Vows of Friendship, Rysolis came in, to whose immediate care I recom∣mended Artavasdes, Whom I will•• now leave returning to his happiness, and continue the Relation of what divested me of mine.

The good Callimachus was so earnest in his intention, that he would not so much as, by one word, give him the least interruption; which Artabanes perceiving, he proceeded in the History of his own Life in these tearms.

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIRST PART.

BOOK III.

I Left off the last night in so glorious a p••osperity, that it was hardly capable of accession, but by being un∣capable of Diminution; but alas, all those morning glories were soon clouded: for Parthenissa was so per∣fect, that whereas in other Women, Fancy is the Rule for Beauty, in her, Judgement was; and where there were Eyes to see her, there was a Heart to adore her. In the beginning of my Fortunes, I acquainted you with a Prince of the Parthians, called Surena, whose Person, Extraction, and Parts, render'd him very considerable. This Gentleman one day, saw the fair Parthenissa, and consequently fell in love with her (for that was an unsever'd effect of seeing her) and as all things naturally desire their satisfaction, and pre∣servation, so the wound which those fair eyes had made (though unvo∣luntarily) was too dangerous to delay the cure; he found, after a long debate, that the Fire was too pleasing to be quencht, that the end was so inviting, the way could not be the contrary, although none could heal the wound but she that made it; and to say truth, my Rival had too vi∣olent a flame to conceal it long, and thought it was to be unjust unto himself, to languish without acquainting the Author of his Torments with them, who perhaps, might be as willing to ease him, as he was apprehen∣sive of the contrary. This resolution once assum'd, he conveys a Letter one evening into Parthenissa's Night-cloaths (but by what Art I could not then imagine) pre-supposing she would perceive it there, and so out of curiosity read it. That which made Surena hasten this Essay, was, That the next morning Lindadory being to Hunt a wild Bore, to sacrifice it to Ceres, as an Annual Duty, and having learnt Parthenissa would accompa∣ny her, he imagin'd, that during the Chase, he might discover what effect his Letter had produc'd; for not having the happiness to be known to her, he could take no just pretence, to be inform'd of it at her own house.

The morning destin'd for Hunting being come, and she intending to honour my Sister with her company, I went to wait upon her to Court, and coming something early, I found her not drest; it happen'd too, that when I came in, Zianthe, that waited on Parthenissa, and who was the onely Confident in her Amours, was gone out about some occasion; and my Princess uncovering her Night-Linnen, I perceiv'd Surena's Let∣ter, but not knowing what it was, I told her (Laughing) I see Madam, you have a Servant, besides Artabanes, that dares declare he adores you; for by the place you think fit to give that Paper, I cannot but imagine

'tis sent from some body that has a Passion for you. Parthenissa, who thought it had been some Verses I had made, and hidden there purposely, told me, smiling, I renounce all Servants but Artabanes, and to shew you I am real in what I say, I give you leave to unseal the Letter, and conjure you to read it aloud. And I, conceiving it had been somewhat of Raillery open'd it, and read these ensuing words.

SVRENA to the Princess PARTHENISSA.

〈◊〉〈◊〉 you knew how tedious, and how vast my sufferings have been before I took this confidence of declaring them, you would rather admire so long a silence, than condemn me now for breaking it: neither would I have ever dis∣clos'd my Flame, but have dy'd silently, admiring you, had I not thought this Letter a lesser crime, than by an unlicens'd death, to have depriv'd you of your passionatest Servant. But, Madam, my Reprieve is but short; for if you now reject the faithfullest Heart that ever Love did yet inspire, I shall receive it as your Commands, to decline adoring you, which since I cannot whilst I live, I am resolv'd by death, to obey you, which I shall embrace with joy, if it can produce any in the fair Parthenissa.

O gods! if Thunder had fallen at my feet, my amazement had been far short of what it was at the ending of this Letter, and if silence had been a sign of guilt, I might have thought Parthenissa capable of it: For my part I knew not what to say, to suspect her constancy was a crime too great to enter into my thoughts, and how that Letter was brought in the place I found it, I could as little imagine, but lest my silence might breed in her, a sinister opinion of my belief, I told her. Madam, I hope this experiment will make you acknowledge, that my saying, I had as many Rivals, as be∣holders of you, was rather a Truth than any thing else. I must confess, she answer'd, I had rather believ'd you than have had this witness brought to convince me; but that Truth cannot be greater than my admiration, how this Letter came hither, unless for your diversion you writ it your self, and fixt a name to it, which I believe as little dreams of Love for me, as I do to confer mine on him: And therefore, I beseech you Arta∣banes, rid me of the trouble I am in, by telling me the truth. Madam (I reply'd) by the respect I owe you, I neither writ the Letter, nor ever saw it till now, but I do know the Hand to be Surena's. Upon this as∣surance, I saw her put on a more serious countenance, and having conti∣nued silent a while, she told me, I was, till now, confident, Artabanes, that you should need no other way to reap my Heart, than by my Actions: but now I fear, to continue me in your good opinion, I must make use of Vows, and consequently owe that to your goodness, which I assur'd to my self always to obtain from your Justice. Therefore I swear by all that is most holy, and by our endless Passions, I never knew that Surena lov'd me, nor can fancy how this Letter came to my hands; besides these Pro∣testations, you may imagine, if I had had the perfidious design of recei∣ving any addresses but yours, I would never have disclos'd it my self. I had not the patience to hear her further, and begging her pardon for it, I reply'd, Ah Madam, what do you mean, you could not use me thus, but by esteeming me guilty of believing you unconstant; for the punish∣ment you now impose on me, is too great for any other crime: when you would raise my Faith to credit any thing you speak, if you make use of Vows, or imagine there can be a higher reason to induce my belief,

than your commanding it, you do me as great an injury, as I should do your Virtue, or my own Felicity, could I think you capable of change; neither can I be more certain that your eyes conquer whosoever they look upon, than I am, that your generous Mind despises every Victory, but that over the too too happy Artabanes. Truly (said she) if there be an obligation in doing Justice, I now received one from you, and must increase the score, by beseeching your advice, how to suppress this growing flame, with such secresie, that none may know it liv'd, but we that know 'tis dead; for if I do not answer him, he may feed him∣self with hope; and if I do, I then acquaint him that I know his Passion, and though my return be never so cold, he may impute it to a wrong cause, and so that which we elect for the extinction of his Passion, may prove the nouriture. As I was about to answer her, Zianthe came in, of whom Parthenissa ask'd very strictly, how that Letter came, where 'twas found, who seem'd to wonder at the accident, as much as we, and upon her as∣surance of endeavouring to discover the Actor, we gave over any fur∣ther enquiry of it, and apply'd our selves, how to remedy the business, and to ease the fair Parthenissa of it; I undertook so to manage this new Love, as I would free her from any future trouble by it. Zianthe, who imagin'd I would elect that course, which all Rivals use, to rid them∣selves of their competitors, presently told her softly, that she foresaw I would decide this difference by a Duel, which could not but be fatal to her, which soever way Fortune inclin'd: For if Artabanes prov'd victo∣rious, the strict inhibitions the King had so often reiterated against Du∣els (though it were his own Son that fought them) and the powerful prosecution of Surenas's Friends, will, if he escape not the hands of Justice, assuredly bring his Head upon the Scaffold; or if he do, then a perpetual banishment will inevitably follow, and you must not expect, that his be∣ing the first Prince of the Blood, will be any Title to hope for a sparing of his; on the other side, if Surena's Sword prove victorious, you cannot any way fancy the greatness of your grief, but by comparing it to that of your loss, and which soever way the chance does fall, you must come upon the Stage, and then you are at the mercy of any that will blemish your Reputation, which though unjustly taxed, is of so pure a tincture, the stain will never be effac'd. These reasons of Zianthe's, and many others of the like quality, were so prevalent with Parthenissa, that she came to me, and conjur'd me by the strictest tyes she could invent, not to take any notice to Surena of his Letter, which if I did, she would esteem it as an argument I suspected her constancy needed my help, and she ambiti∣on'd I should derive the entire possession of her Affection, onely from Her, and not from my Sword: Besides (she continued) what greater punishment can you inflict upon your Rival, than to see him deny'd what you so absolutely possess; and if his Perseverance be great, my Ri∣gor shall not be inferior to it, which will render him an object fitter for pity, than your hatred. Many other reasons she alledg'd, and after all she would not quit her Chamber, till I had faithfully promis'd to obey her. Immediately after we went to prosecute our intended sport. That day Surena seem'd to accompany the Prince Phraates, but it was indeed, to wait an occasion, to know what effect his Letter had produc'd. The assurance I had in Parthenissa's Vertue and Affection, made me further all I could, my Rivals designe, that she might find my confidence was more in her, than in my self. But I easily saw, that Surena did not more endeavour to meet her, than she to avoid him, yet at last in a narrow lane, where 'twas im∣possible

to do so any longer, I saw him fall into discourse with her, but being at too great a distance, I could not hear it, yet I perceived by some passionate gestures, he was very earnest in what he said, but after a quar∣ter of an hours time, the company parted them, and I easily read in his looks his success. The Sun by his declining, warn'd the Hunters to retire, and Parthenissa, accompanying my Sister to her Lodgings, begg'd her, that we might be private, and then having acquainted her with my Ri∣vals Letter, she told me, You remember Artabanes, the long narrow lane we rid through, it was there where Surena overtook me, and if he deri∣ved any pleasure from his entertainment, he owed it not to my inclinati∣on, but my necessity. After a few indifferent discourses, he told me, with some disorder, I perceive, Madam, by your shunning of me, that my Letter, which declared my Passion, is fallen into your hands, and I now find my apprehensions were not unjustly grounded. Sir, (said I) I must confess this morning I found a Letter in my Chamber, which I burnt, if it were, as you say, a declaration of your passion, would that were also reduc'd to that nothing the Paper is. Ah Madam (he reply'd) can you be so resembling to the gods in Beauty, and not in disposition? for they are never offended with a Heart which does adore them with that devoti∣on, which mine does you: if it be a crime for me to love you, then it is a sin for you to be so lovely: and if my Flame be an offence, you must quar∣rel with your perfections, which are the causes of it. If your Passion (I reply'd) be so great as you say it is, I must then believe your imagina∣tion, not your judgement, attributes those perfections to me which has rais'd it, for Beauty being but Fancy, you may perswade those, which otherwise would tax your choice, that you pereive as many perfections in me, as I know I want, but lest your affection may prove a deceitful optick, my Charity shall put you in the right way, which is to decline your addresses to me, for besides my great want of merit, I am as rigid as the perfectest of my Sex, therefore, I beseech you, owe this cure to your Reason, and not to Time. Madam (he answer'd) 'tis Reason gave the wound, and neither Time nor your Disdain, shall ever make me alter the resolution I have so justly assum'd, you may as easily hope to separate Light from the Sun, as my Heart from that Passion which possesses it: no, fair Par∣thenissa, I am resolv'd, if I cannot be Loves Favourite, I will be his Martyr, and if your Scorns cannot extinguish my Desires, the coldness of the Grave shall never triumph over them, but the gods will preserve so pure a Flame a live, to be a pattern for future Lovers to imitate. Sir, (said I) so much affection deserves all that I can return, which is my Friendship, and that again conjures you not to cast away so noble a Passion on one that must be necessarily ungrateful, for that which you desire I have given to another, and were it in my Power to recall it, it is not in my Will. I hope this will shew you with how much justice I intreat you not to ingage your self in so ruinous a design, for should I now confer on you my Love, and you receive it, your indiscretion will be as great as you would perswade me your passion is, for my constancy, (the cause of your contentment) would be always the occasion of your fear. Ah Madam (he reply'd) would to the gods you were but yet pleased to bless me with your Affection, for then the joy would be so absolute, that I should onely have the Power to contemplate it, and not how I came to the fruiti∣on of it. But Madam, I am too bold to hope for any pleasing answer, till my Services assure the vastness of my Passion. I bless this hour, that gave me opportunity of telling you of it, and that your Rigor

cannot be greater than my perseverance. Thereupon (without sta••ing for an answer) he went away; But I impute those words (she continu'd) to the first flame of Love, which commonly is the most violent: For my part, I am resolv'd to wear so much coldness on those actions which re∣late to him, that if he have that spirit men believe, I am confident 'twill change his love into resentment. Madam (my sister reply'd) I foresee many sad accidents will oppose your loves, if by a speedy overture un∣to your friends you do not consummate a Nuptial; What should divert you from that election? Your Flames are too virtuous and too just not to be owned; and being so, who will oppose them; this declaration will silence all Rivals growing Loves, and make your happiness as sure as 'twill be great. Ah Sister (I answer'd) 'tis true, our Passions are so pure, they know not a comparison; but yet my Father (whose commands I re∣ceiv'd last night) will, I am fearful, resist this vast felicity; for as soon as I had left you, he sent for me to wait on him, which I did, and after he had walked two or three turns without speaking one word, he at last told me: Artabanes, The gods having given me the blessings of a son, I have found so high an one in it, that I shall enjoin you to endeavor to partake of the like contentment; I should think my death as full of contentment as my life has been of honor, could I see you matcht in a Family that might assure me you should have a successor wor∣thy of ours: To effect this has been long my care, and never till now could accomplish it: It is but lately I had a motion made me, which I much approve; 'tis the Princess Zephalinda (Surena's Sister) whose Vir∣tues, Beauty, Person, and Blood, assures me you will think your self highly satisfi'd with such a Marriage, at least I shall be. I must confess this de∣claration did infinitely surprize me; but least he should guess the true cause of my astonishment, I told him: In the first place Sir, as I cannot but return my humble thanks for your care, so I must not but acquaint you, that I am not ignorant of how high a concernment Marriage is, be∣ing happiness or misery, till death dissolves the knot; and since Felicity is onely opinion, there is none can prescribe positive rules for the making it; but every man must be his own judge; contentment something resem∣bling mens tastes; that which is pleasing to one, to another may be poy∣son. The consequence being so great, and the choice not to be made by Proxy, I shall beseech you give me leave to learn whether that Princess be possessor of such perfectious as may assure me of such happiness: this nothing but time can do; and if she appears not such to me as she does to you, I will then acquaint you with it, and hope you will not compel me to make her and my self miserable. As I am (said he) Artabanes in∣dulgent to you, so I expect that you be obedient unto me; and then he withdrew himself into his Closet. This was the substance of his pro∣posal, and my return to it, for I did not hold it fit to acquaint him with my Passion till first we had advis'd together: for I perceiv'd by his last words how his inclination stood, and I too well knew how difficult he is to be removed when he has once taken up a resolution not to be so. Then I besought Parthenissa to honor me with her advice, since I had put all that was dear unto me to her ordering. To which she told me. Moneses hu∣mor (which I am absolutely ignorant of) being the chief thing in this affair, by which we are to be guided, makes me as unfit to advise; as your knowledge of it renders you most capable. Madam, (I reply'd) that my Father is resolv'd to be obey'd is not more certain, than that I am determin'd the contrary, for in this case obedience is a crime, so that

the end being now resolv'd, we have nothing to advise upon but the means that may best conduce unto it. Which in my opinion Madam (said Lindadory) is, that Artabanes, make some seeming addresses to Zephalin∣da (for Moneses is sooner vanquish'd by yielding than resistance) and doubtless she cannot be so perfect (especially being compar'd with the fair Parthenissa) but he may find some defect in her person or hu∣mour, which may make his declining her appear an effect of his judge∣ment, not disobedience: for if my Father find his refusal of serving her, roceeds from his being possest with a Passion for another, he will impute my Brothers deserting Zephalinda to his Pre-ingagement; and then I am so well acquainted with his disposition, that it will be impossible to alter it. Thus by concealing your Flames a little longer, you may attain that happiness which by a speedy declaring of them, may receive many ob∣structions, if not an absolute ruine. Madam (said Parthenissa to Linda∣dory) I much apprehend if Artabanes can have no other inducements to obtain Moneses's permission of declining Zephalinda, and making his ad∣dresses to me, than her imperfections, and my having none, that the ar∣gument may be justly reverted by your Father, who may more aptly apply that to Zephalinda, which your goodness confers on me. My Princess (I reply'd) there could be no greater joy befall me than that Moneses were to consider both with the eyes of justice, and that I were to possess his election, you will then quickly find how injurious to your self modesty has been, and how vast a felicity his judgement will confer on me. I have (said Parthenissa) so good an opinion of yours, that I will banish those apprehensions the knowledge of my own defects do raise in me; and they being supprest, I have nothing to say against the fair Lindadory's advice. 'Tis not enough (I reply'd) that you have nothing to say against it, but if you will have it observ'd (Madam) you must strictly enjoin it me, for I have so great a reluctancy to that action, that it must be some powerfull Charm as your Commands which can make me undertake it. Since (reply'd Parthenissa) the performance is so necessary, and that you assure me the onely means that must enable you to do it, is my Commands, I do enjoin you it, but my affections make me (I fear) uncharitable to Zephalinda, by wishing, you may quickly find as many defects in her, as I desire perfections to merit your esteem. Madam (I reply'd) the first of your wishes is as unnecessary as the last; for when Zephalinda is to be paralell'd to you, it would be as difficult to find no imperfections in her, as to find any in you. Having taken this resolution, I began to apply my self to put it in practice; and that which gave me some probability of its suc∣cess was, that Zephalinda had as much aversion to Love, as Beauty to create it. The first addresses I made her, were receiv'd with a coldness proportionate to her practice and my desires. But I must confess, I contributed as much as I could to it, and apprehended nothing so much, as that which most men in Parthia would have esteem'd their highest Felicity. I know not whether that which I intended as the means to want her affection, pro∣cured it: for I have been told, that some Women, where they find but an indifferency, make it their design to bring it to an extreme; and so mens coldness does often ingender their Flame: But whatsoever was the cause, I began too soon to perceive that which I too much fear'd; and knowing now she once honor'd me with her affection, it would be difficult if not impossible any longer to conceal mine; I resolv'd forthwith to acquaint Parthenissa with it, who I found exceedingly satisfied with the ingenuity of my proceeding, and by the greatness of her contentment for an action

she could but in justice expect; I somewhat believ'd she had a diffidence, whether that which was begun as a pretence, were not turn'd into a re∣ality; having once taken up this opinion, I cast out some words which might give her a rise to conceive it, and she who had as piercing an in∣spection as any Creature was capable of, soon conceiv'd my suspitions, and as readily acknowledg'd the justice of them, but with words so apt∣ly appropriated to her design, that she made that little jealousie the high∣est obligation she could place on me, as proceeding from a proportionate Passion: and to say truth, Zephalinda was capable of shaking a constancy less firm than mine; for besides her Beanty, which was fitter for wonder than description, she had a freeness and a grace in all her action, peculiar to herself, and surpast by none but Parthenissa; her wit and virtue were resembling unto all her other qualities, and (in a word) she enjoy'd so many perfections, that had I not been prepossest with a former Passion, I had esteem'd hers as great a happiness as I then thought it a misfortune. But perceiving by Parthenissa's words, that she had contracted some little diffidence of me, and knowing that where there is once a jealousie, eve∣ry thing contributes to the growth of it; I told her, Madam, since I find, that there may be an ill construction made of that which I under∣took but by your commands, I am resolv'd with your permission (which I humbly beg) to take away all occasion of such a misfortune; for being innocent I would not look like guilty. The way, Madam, which I would propound, is, freely to acquaint Zephalinda with our Passions; and truly I have discover'd so much virtue and discretion in her since my feign'd addresses, that my duty to them, if not you, would confine me to this; and which proceeding will not onely take off her resentment for what is past, but invite her assistance in the future, and that in my opinion can in no way be so effectually done, as by obtaining from her to use me with a disdain so unsufferable that my declining her may appear as just to my Father as it will be necessary to me. Parthenissa would not grant my desire, till first she had received reiterated assurances from me, that I made it, not to satisfie her suspition, which my expressions had not done sufficiently, but as I held it a justice to Zephalinda, and the best way in order to our affairs. This was no sooner fixt upon, than I apply'd my self to out an opportunity to act it: and not many dayes after, I lighted upon one, such as I desir'd; for going to wait upon Zephalinda, I found her alone in her Closet, where (having shut the door) I flung my self at her feet, and told her, Madam, I know not with what face I shall disclose a secret to you, neither do I well know how I can longer conceal it: Your goodness makes me desire to tell it, and the same goodness makes me a asham'd to do so; but since persevering in my crime, will make the mercy I beg of you an injustice, I will no longer conceal it. 'Tis Madam, though I have made my addresses unto you, I have given my heart and liberty to Parthenissa; I was forc'd to this crime to obey Moneses, and disguise a Passion as great as the offence by which I did so; but that which some∣what extenuates my sin is, that as soon as I had the honor to know you, I made my self known unto you, and as a testimony of the high and just opinion I have of your virtue, the same instant in which I declar'd I have injur'd you, I trust you with the power to punish it; my ignorance of you made me commit my crime, and my knowledge of you makes my pennance, which I am confident is more severe than your justice can be. The gods shall bear me witness, had I not been preingag'd, I should have implor'd the joy of your affection with raptures as worthy the felicity,

and I do ill deserve it; but since it was otherwise destin'd, give me leave to conjure you to convert your affection into friendship; I am ca∣pable of that, though not worthy of it; and since I cannot give you the first place in my heart, permit me to give you an equal one in my esteem: This Madam is the condition, and this is the request of the crimi∣nal Artabanes; who can hardly have the confidence to beg your pardon, because he knows himself unworthy of it; and having so highly wrong'd your goodness, must not expect that for his satisfaction you will wrong your justice. Though I know this discourse did trouble her, yet she conceal'd hers with so much art, that I almost doubted what I was certain of; but judging by my silence that I expected an answer, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as∣sur'd me, she would not give i•• till I were risen, in which I obey'd her, and then she told me, That you have obtain'd a Mistress, Artaban••••, more worthy of you than I am, shall always be my satisfaction, and not my trouble; if I have receiv'd your counterfeit Flame, 'twas because you as∣sur'd me it would create your felicity; and if I paid you a reall one, 'twas a duty to your merit; but since I lov'd you more than my self, and that the declining of my affection will be more pleasing than the continuance; the same consideration which made me give it you, will reduce me to recall it, yet I could wish you had never rais'd it, or that you had ap∣ply'd some other cure for its suppression; but I hope I shall be so much Mistress of my inclinations, as if they have an existence, yet they shall be invisible; and if they must trouble any, it shall be Zephalinda onely, Who believing your professions before her no title to them, too soon en∣tertain'd a hope of that, which 'twere an injustice to confer upon her: for that friendship which you beg, it shall be pay'd you, with a con∣stancy and zeal worthy the object; and I will value yours at so high a rate, that I shall esteem it almost a sufficient reparation for that pleasing happiness you have robb'd me of. Ah! Madam (I reply'd) can you so soon pardon, and so soon oblige? Will you then allow no interval be∣tween my fault and your reward? If any thing could make me think my being Parthenissa's misfortune this would; but my condition is such, that the breath I should spend in the expressions of my gratitude, I must employ in begging you to increase the causes of it; 'tis Madam, that you would henceforth use me in publick with your highest scorn; This my unwor∣thiness and your resentment may quickly lead you to; and upon this de∣pends my future joy; but if you should entertain me so in private, 'twould blast all my happiness, and destroy what it should build; for by the know∣ledge of your virtues, I find your friendship is as necessary to my content∣ment as Parthenissa's love. I know not (said Zephalinda) to what intent you mean this; but if it be to delude the World, the action will be so op∣posite to my inclination, that my ill counterfeiting will reveal what you would strive to hinder. Then (I reply'd) I am undone, and to make my ruine more sensible, 'tis by the greatest virtue that ever was possest: but even now I suspected your resentment would ruine me, now I find your goodness will: for justice to condemn is common, but for friendship to destroy, is a fate onely fit for the crime of Artabanes, who is so unfortu∣nate, that virtue loses its nature where he is concern'd. Zephalinda ex∣tremely perplext to see me in so great a trouble, told me, if by any acti∣on of mine I may convert your disorder into as great a joy, assure your self Artabanes, I will force my inclination to an obeying of you, and no∣thing but an impossibility shall hinder me from it; therefore I conjure you acquaint me for what great advantage you would imploy my friendship,

in a thing so inconsistent with it. Madam (said I) my Father, who knows your merit, has so strictly enjoyn'd me to serve you, that if by any fault of mine I should decline adoring you, I must expect all that his in∣dignation can inflict on me, and lose the hopes of possessing Parthenissa by his consent: your scorn may make the discontinuance of my addres∣ses to you appear a kind of justice to him, and so incline him to listen to my making them to Parthenissa. You see by this how much I am therein concern'd, and by it too, how much I do respect you, for sooner than the world should say I forsook the fair Zephalinda, I had rather give it so strong a testimony of my unworthiness, as her neglect. Alas Arta∣banes (she answer'd) I had rather the world should think you just by deserting me, than give it so infallible an argument of my want of judge∣ment as to decline your Passion; but since your happiness depends so much upon my counterfeiting scorn, I will endeavor to build your joy by the ruine of my own, and care not what men do think of me, so you thereby obtain the happy Parthenissa. Judge Sir! if ever there were a higher generosity than this of Zephalinda's: instead of revenging an injury, she pardons it, instead of punishing an offender she obliges him, and so much to her own prejudice, that to establish her Rivals content∣ment she ruines (by her confession) her own. I must confess her virtue had so great an ascendant over me, that I had almost deplor'd the hopes of my own felicity, since they were so likely to ruine those of hers. You may easily guess, I left her with as high a satisfaction of her virtue as I was troubl'd at the necessity of being ungrateful to it. As soon as I came to Parthenissa I gave her by my relation so just a cause of affection to Ze∣phalinda, that from that hour she vow'd her the second place in hers. and in process of time, they contracted so firm a friendship, that though her Brother were highly concern'd in the breaking off Parthenissa's affe∣ction and mine, yet she was not onely our Confident but our Counsel∣lor, and discharg'd both with such secrecy and judgement, that we knew not which was most meritorious. But this friendship could hardly be greater than that which Arsaces had for Surena, which did every day so clearly manifest it self, that the Courtiers ador'd him as the rising Sun, and found the onely way to obtain any thing from the King, was to be promis'd it by his favorite, who truly (setting the imperiousness of his humour aside) which doubtless he had whilst he courted the Kings favour, he had charms hardly to be resisted: Neither could Arsaces's af∣fection to the Brother be greater, than the scorns I receiv'd in publick were from the Sister, which at first she personated so well, that I was con∣strain'd often to wait upon her in private, to learn whether that which we design'd for a fiction were not metamorphos'd into its contrary; but at last she acted them as a task, and so constrain'd, that her behaviour seem'd to condemn me of that unkindness which her modesty would not per∣mit her words to do. But one evening I receiv'd a testimony of her friendship proportionate to that Character she had given me of it; 'Twas a little note which she convey'd into my hand, and though many were present, yet it was so artificially that 'twas impossible any could take notice of it. The words were these:

ZEPHALINDA to AR∣TABANES.

SUrena has not onely discover'd where you love, but that you are lov'd again, he is resolv'd whilst you seemingly make your addresses to me, to make his real ones to Parthenissa, and gain the King of his party, This you cannot resent as an injury from either, having publiquely declar'd a Passion to one, for whom you have none. You had best therefore suddenly break off the false, and manifest the true Flame; before Arsaces appear too openly for your Rival, who then may look on your affection, as a contempt to his authority. Tell me Artabanes, does not the betraying of a Brother, the advancing of my Rivals, and the ruining of my own hopes, at least, deserve your friendship, and yet that is all I demand, since the impossibility of expecting more, would be as great, as the sin of doing so.

AS soon as I had done reading these few lines, I communicated them to my Princess, who did not onely much approve of the advice, but more of the gallantry of her that gave it. The same night I waited upon Zephalinda, and taking an opportunity, I made her Parthenissa's, and my own retributions, for so unimitable a friendship; but time being exceeding precious, and there being then with Zephalinda, Surena, Silla∣ces, Lindadory, Parthenissa, and many others, the chiefest of the Court, I resolv'd no longer to delay that which was design'd between us, and ha∣ving privately advertis'd Zephalinda of my intention, I began a discourse of the importunity of Lovers, as a Rise to effect it; The subject was so copious, that there wanted no matter of entertainment, but that we in∣sisted upon most, was occasion'd by Zephalinda's saying, that she admir'd at those, who when their Mistresses declar'd they could not love them, would yet continue their loves: as if importunity could ingender Affecti∣on. To which Surena, as believing himself most concern'd, reply'd: I should (Sister) have an ill opinion of that General, who designing to take a Town, would, upon its refusal to yield at the summoning, raise his Camp, and march away: 'Tis just so in this case, what our desires can∣not perform, perseverance must, and since modesty and practice does al∣low Women at first to deny their Servants, 'twould be a great want of discretion to take that for their disdain, which is but their Passion. Ma∣dam (said I) there may be something more added in this particular, for since by daily experience we find, that a high Passion ingenders a pro∣portionate Scorn, the first giving the Power, if not the Cause unto the last, why may not we as well expect that an opportunity may beget an affection, the difference being but equally great? That which you say (answer'd Zephalinda) is a clear mistake, for certainly never any Woman hated a Man for loving her, but she having some aversion to the person, he imputes it to his Flame; but to that which my Brother says, I must confess I think it a madness, where there is an affection to abandon it upon the first refusal, but sometimes Men are apt to give our bashfulness a longer being, than indeed it has, and have so good an opinion of them∣selves, that they often call that which is our aversion, our modesty, and

by making us better natur'd than we are, trouble themselves more than they should: for my part, I would deal ingeniously with my Lovers (if I had any) and tell them what is modesty; and what is aversion, that they may owe their suffering to themselves, and not to me, for I think it a Tyran∣ny to make Mens Torments the witnesses of my Beauty. I must confess, Madam (I reply'd) if all your Sex would practice what you declare, we should have as much cause to admire their goodness, as their beauties, but that which deludes many, is, that some Women have hated two or three years, sometimes more, and then at last have loved those, whom they so long slighted; and though examples of this quality be very rare, yet some proving the possibility of it, every one flatters himself with a belief it may be his fate; just as in War, where though but one amongst a hundred thousand raises himself from a common Soldier to a General, yet the success of that one, does raise more expectations, than the miscarriages of so many others doe deject. Besides Madam (said Sillaces) other Wo∣men, whose beauties have not charms so strong, but their Rigor may prove their Lovers cure, do often hold on their Servants by expectation, and so by Art supply the unkindness of Nature, but where so many perfections reign, as you are Mistress of, that declaration which you would have pass as an excess of goodness (and perhaps mean it so) may appear as high a mark of your power; for knowing your servants to be surely charm'd, you may well advise them to assume their liberty, and they be no more oblig'd to you for it, than when a Gally-slave is bid by his Keeper to get free, and yet is still kept fast in Chains. I should too much trespass on your patience, did I tell you all the particulars of that entertainment, I will therefore onely acquaint you, that some words were spoken, which gave me a fit opportunity to beg Zephalinda, that since she had made a decla∣ration of dealing clearly with her Servants, in what related to her reso∣lutions concerning them, she would give me my sentence, by acquaint∣ing me what return that Passion, I so justly paid her, might expect. Tru∣ly Artabanes (she answer'd with a gesture as full of disdain in appearance, as it was obliging in effect) I thought my actions would have exempted my words from that trouble, but since you will have it in as much plain∣ness as reality, you must know, I cannot receive your passion, but if my saying will be a diminution of your grief, that it proceeds not from any defect in you, or from any aversion to you in particular, but out of a ge∣neral aversion to Love, I may very truly profess it. Ah Madam, (I reply'd) you are cruel in thinking to be merciful, and at once load me with so much misery, that I must sink under the burthen: You should have prepar'd me by degrees for my ruine, and thereby have lessen'd it, at least of one misery, which is the suddenness and unexpectedness of it: But Madam, do not think that my discontent is of so mean a nature, that the consideration of the cause, can lessen the effect: No, fair Zephalinda, that with which you would console me, does but augment my Torments, for had you been capable of Love, I should by Zeal and Sufferings have had some expectation to have cre∣ated yours, but this general hatred to the sweetest Passion, cuts off all ex∣pectation, and leaves me as full of misery, as my ambition for so high a flame can merit: but Madam, may not I fear some conceal'd love is the cause of this cruelty, or that some happier, or more deserving Man, may make you alter this ruinous resolution? Neither of both (said Ze∣phalinda) I attest the higher Powers, that were I to have any man, it should be Artabanes, but not having him, I vow by the domestick gods,

that listen to my oath, never to marry any other, and I conjure you by your own quiet as well as mine, to speak to me no more of Love, nor con∣ceal for me any, lest you force me to that aversion for you, which no∣thing but your perseverance can render legitimate; carry that noble Flame unto some other object, whose antipathy to Love may not so blind her Judgement, as to refuse your Passion, which I shall pray may be successful, and that your Felicity may be equal to your merit; But if instead of my affection, you will receive my friendship, I do ingage my self to pay it you, and shall endeavour by the perfectness of that, to repair the deficiency of the other. Ah Madam (I reply'd) all the consolation you then give me, is, that every one that dares offer you his Heart; shall be cloath'd in my Livery: but to make my torment per∣fect, my sufferings proceed from one that at the same instant in which she professes her self my friend, ruines me; yet I shall strive by my obe∣dience, to manifest how ill I did deserve my misfortune, and since ma∣king my self perfectly wretched, must be an argument of that Truth, I attest the self-same Powers, which even now you invok'd, never to im∣portune you any more with my Passion; but by silencing or transport∣ing it unto some other object, take from us both the trouble, the conti∣nuance of it would create: but the high honor of your friendship I embrace with a joy proportionate to the vastness of the benefit, and will pay you mine, with a constancy, as great as you assure me your aver∣sion is to love. Who could express the astonishment of Surena, at this profession? his endeavours truly were so pressing, to alter his Sisters re∣solution, that it sufficiently revealed his concern in it; but all was in vain, for after those protestations, we remain'd unchangeable. This busi∣ness thus handled, was, for a good while, the entertainment of the Court, and made Surena so to hasten Arsaces to appear for him, that though an unexpected accident fell out, which much contributed to the publique, declaring my self a Servant to Parthenissa, yet before I could effect it, Surena obtain'd from the King a visit to her in his favour, which did exceedingly perplex our affairs, and forc'd me to mannage my Flame with as secresie a troublesome as great; but that which I told you, did so much advance my being at liberty to profess my Passion to my Princess, was, that my Father, either out of the knowledge of the World, and consequently of the emptiness of it, or else not be∣ing able to see Surena in higher Power than himself, forsook the Court, and resigning up his Estate and Offices to me, retir'd into a Solitude, where under a seeming banishment from all Earthly Fruiti∣ons, he more perfectly enjoyed them, and either out of a dis-af∣fection to Surena, or out of his indulgence to me, he gave me the free Election of my Mistriss, and then (as I told you) withdrew him∣self from those cares, which take away the relish of all our Enjoy∣ments. But Moneses could not more contemn the vanities of the Court, than Surena was in love with them, he had nothing but succeeded as he desir'd, unless it were his Passion, in which (though he neglected no opportunity, nor omitted to make use of his Masters Pow∣er) his progress was so slow, that it clouded all his other pleasures; and by his daily frequentation of Parthenissa discovering new charms, it made his misfortune the more unsupportable; For my part, though I had those publique advantages of entertaining her freely, and the Kings Power and Countenance to second my addresses, yet in those happy days I receiv'd in private so many fresh assurances of my Princesses af∣fection

and constancy, that I could hardly wish my Rival a greater mi∣sery than the continuance of his. In this condition I was, when Fortune began to declare an irreconcileable hatred to me, in which she has been so firm, that I admire from whence she has merited the name of Inconstant. The Province of Tabiena, one of the most considerable ones of Parthia, generally revolted, and the Rebels having, in a pitcht Battel, defeated the Kings Lieutenant, and kill'd 10000 upon the place, so exasperated Arsaces, that he rais'd an Army of 80000 Men, to vindicate this disgrace, and till it was upon its march, never would declare who should be General; but then with a high obligingness, he told me, that he had made choice of me, as well to follow his Inclination as Judgement, that I must perform Mira∣cles, onely to justify the opinion he had of me, and that the next morn∣ing by the dawn of day, as I valu'd his service, I was to repair unto my Command. I must confess I was surpriz'd, both at the thing, and at the suddenness of it, but since 'twas the way to serve my Prince, and to Glo∣ry, I supprest all those troubles which my separation from Parthenissa be∣gan to create, and having with an humility sutable to the obligation, accepted the Kings Commission, I went that evening to kiss the fair Par∣thenissa's hands, and to offer up those sighs, which that sad departure so justly exacted; but not finding her within, I expected her return, and till then, I entertain'd Zianthe, my Princesses Favourite, who after some dis∣course, drawing her Handkerchief, let fall a Letter out of her pocket, and perceiving it seal'd, I snatcht it up, more out of curiosity, than any other design, as soon as she saw I had it, she begg'd me with so much earnestness, and in such pressing terms to restore it, that I began to suspect it was some∣thing of concernment, and finding the Superscription a Cypher onely, I broke open the Letter, thinking it had been some private Amours of hers; but alas,, soon found it was Surenas Hand, which Zianthe imagining by my amazement, she gave a great shreek, and flinging her self at my feet; with her hands held up, conjur'd me to restore, and not read it; but be∣ing thrust on by my ill Fate, I kept her off, and read these words;

SVRENA to the Princess PARTHENISSA.

YOur apprehensions, Madam, are extream just, for if Artabanes should discover the change you have made in my favour, his revenge would be equal to the greatness of his loss: I therefore highly approve of your opinion in employing him to command the Army now design'd for the suppression of the rebellious Tabienians, and in observance of it, have got the King to sign his Commission, and strictly to enjoyn him to repair to his Charge by the break of day, his absence will give us that liberty, which his being here will deprive us of, and consequently render unfortunate,

SVRENA.

Oh gods! how many thousand distractions did the reading of this Let∣ter involve me in! I that resented the torments, cannot describe them, at first I was pale as Guilt, and an universal trembling seiz'd upon all my Bo∣dy, yet presently, the consideration of all my wrongs inflam'd me with so much fury, that had Parthenissa then come in, I had sacrific'd her to it. But at length I cry'd out, great gods! where shall Virtue inhabit, if Par∣thenissa be not a fit Mansion for it? and who shall ever expect a recom∣pence

for his Fidelity, when mine is thus rewarded? then looking upon that cruel instrument of my undoing; I told her. Ha! Zianthe: how could you thus long conceal this Treachery? Sure Parthenissa's wicked∣ness is contageous, else your pity (if all other motives had fail'd) would have made you disclose what the just gods could no longer conceal. The wretched Maid finding my Choler rais'd to the highest pitch, flung her self again at my feet, and with a flood of Tears told me. The conceal∣ment (Sir) of your being so long betray'd, was as great a grief to me, as the knowledge of it is to you, but I could not reveal that treachery with∣out being guilty of one to Parthenissa, and drawing by it a ruine on her as certain as just. My innocence shall bear me witness, how I labour'd to divert her from an action so perfidious, but when I found all was in vain, I was forced to submit to what I could not oppose, yet with a grief, which equalled the greatness of her crime; but since the gods have so evidently declared themselves in revealing a treachery so secretly carried, I think it rather a Charity than a Sin to acquaint you with that which I hope will prove your cure. After that Surena began to possess the Kings esteem, I found a beginning of a coldness in Parthenissa for you, and something of inclination for your Rival, which increast proportionably, as Arsaces favour did, and that being come unto the highest degree, this resembl'd it; in a word, I cannot compare the greatness of her passion to him more fitly, than to that she formerly paid you: but perhaps you may wonder why they should write to one another, having the opportunity and free∣dom of conversation. To which I answer'd, Surena was suspicious, that all Parthenissa did profess in his favour, was but meerly to gain time, and to free her self from the Kings importunities, who never left solliciting for his Favourite; Now he knew, Letters were a proof that she could not deny, when she might her words, therefore he put her to that tryal, and besides, he shewed them to the King, as an evincement of his victory, which as he said, Arsaces would not credit, but by some such undeniable testimony. Things being come to this height, all their designes were, how to delude you, which truly they were so industrious in, that I have as often admir'd at Parthenissa's Art in dissembling, as at her treachery it self. Amongst all those Presents which Surena sent her, she places on none so much value, as on a little pocket Looking Glass, which of late you have seen her wear; and though the excellency of the Workmanship might induce her to value it, yet the esteem she places on it, proceeds from another cause, for between the Glass and the Case, in a little Draw∣er, which is artificially shut with a screw, there is her Lovers Picture; and, as if all things had contributed to undelude you, yesternight some∣thing being amiss in it, she left it off to be mended. Zianthe without straying to know whether I had a mind to see it, went and fetcht it, to shew the truth of what she had alledged. The Glass I very well remem∣ber'd, having seen Parthenissa lately wear it, and set even a doting value on it; but the rage of being so egregiously deluded, stifl'd those resent∣ments my fury inspir'd, which silence Zianthe attributing to my attenti∣on, she thus continued her discourse. I have, Sir, given you a clear Nar∣rative of my Mistresses Infidelity, which indeed, is so excessive great, that I hope you will think it a sufficient happiness to have mist her, and your Rival sufficiently punisht in obtaining her; in my opinion, the crime is so odious, that with the first opportunity I will abandon her service, and think it more contentment to have but a bare subsistance, where in∣nocence is cherisht, than to possess all the plenties of the Court, where

Vice has so much dominion: all that I have to beg of you is, that you will make the best profit of this discovery, without revealing the Author of it, for it can be no advantage to you, and will be an unavoidable ruine unto me. Zianthe thus ended her discourse, and filld' me with so much fury, that without saying one word, I left her: but as I was going out, I met a Servant of Surena's, who mistaking me for one of Parthenissa's meni∣al ones, desir'd me to tell Zianthe, that her Princess lay that night at Su∣rena's with Zephalinda, and that he was come to wait on her thither. This additional proof of her inconstancy, made me say to my self: Is she then not onely contented to be wicked, but to glory in't? and has she no sooner led me into misery, than she forsakes and insults over me? but yet (I continu'd) why do I blame this action, for since she has stain'd her Beauty with infidelity, 'tis an obligation to me not to hide it. Then, with∣out so much as answering Surena's servant, I went to my Lodging, but in such a posture, that had I met with any, betwixt that place where I recei∣ved so fatal a poison, and my Chamber, my actions had discover'd my condition. Being come home, I flung my self into my Bed, and by a thousand extravagancies, exprest the miseries I groan'd under; at first I re∣solv'd to kill my self, having so much out-lived my hopes, but the hor∣ror of so barbarous a crime, and to leave the world without revenge, retain'd me. Then casting up my Eyes to Heaven, my Tears invok'd that Justice my rage hinder'd my words from demanding. At length I cry'd out, Great gods! Why do you tempt frail Man, so justly to destroy himself, and yet make it a sin to do so? Or why is life esteem'd a blessing, when without it we could not suffer misery? Then pausing a while, and after starting up, I continu'd; Ah! no, were to destroy my self no sin, I would not do it: First, those that have injur'd me, shall dye, and then the triumph of my revenge will be pleasing: Yet Parthenissa must not fall, her Sex preserves her; but to kill her Lover, will be a more sensible grief to her, and consequently, a more pleasing joy to me. But couldst thou, (I continu'd) Artabanes, look upon her with any satisfaction, were her miseries proportionate to her crimes? O no, those charms would melt thy anger into pity, rather kill thy Rival nobly, and shew by his de∣struction, how much she has mis-chosen; then fly into some Desart, where thou shalt never hear again th' enchanting name of Parthenissa; and in the horror of some silent Grove, pine away thy life as a Pennance, for having believ'd any of her sex, could prove constant.

My distractions were so high, that it was day, e'r I could elect any re∣solution, yet in the end I assum'd this last, as finding it fittest for my re∣sentment and despair, and immediately calling Simander, I commanded him with secresie, and without dispute, to carry a Paper I gave him to Su∣rena, and tell him, I expected him in the Eastern Meddow, near the sa∣cred Grove.

The Challenge contain'd these words.

ARTABANES to SVRENA.

TO possess Parthenissa, 'tis not enough to have her declare she loves you, but you must dispute the Conquest with your Sword, and by that Tryal prove, whether the gods will be as favourable to you, as her infidelity. In a word, my death must secure your Affections, and yours must revenge me on your per∣fidious Mistriss; and though her inconstancy render her unworthy my Resent∣ments,

yet your addresses to her, after you knew of mine, renders you worthy of my revenge.

Simander immediately suspected what it was, but not imagining the cause, began to make some question, for which I took him up so short, that I put a silence to all his doubts, and sent him away to perform what I had commanded; then dressing my self, I took one of my best Horses (for 'tis the custom in Parthia, for all Men of quality to fight on Horse∣back) and went to the place appointed, where I had not long been, but Simander came, and acquainted me that Surena would be with me instantly. These words were hardly deliver'd; when I might perceive him that sent them, onely attended by one of his Servants. I had not the pa∣tience to delay my revenge by any expostulation, but drawing my sword, and galloping up to him, bade him defend himself. The first encounter, he gave me a slight hurt upon the Bridle-hand, and I him in his right Arm, and after a few passages for the gaining of the Crupper, I won his, and ran my Sword through him up to the Hilt, with which he fell, and go∣ing to repeat my thrust, the remembrance of his excellent Sister, stopt my hand, and made me tell him, That which I have done, though it be too little for my resentments, yet it is too much for Zephalinda's Brother, for which Relation I give thee thy life. If (reply'd Surena) thou payst Zephalinda any affection, evince it in taking that little I have left, she is so generous, she had rather hear I am dead than live by my Enemies Mercy, therefore I conjure thee by those wrongs thou sayst I have done thee, and by thy affection to my Sister, finish what thy good fortune has so far advanc'd, and by one wound more, end those torments, my being vanquisht will throw upon me, and secure thy love to Parthenissa, which whilst I live, will be unsafe. Why (said I) dost thou by that name, tempt my fury, and revive an anger, whose justice is declar'd in thy defeat; fare∣well, for I dare not trust my self with my resentments. Ending these words, I turn'd to Surena's Servant, and bade him have a care of his Master. Then going to my own, I told him, come Simander, since death refuses to ease my misery, I will seek some other cure, and commanding him to follow, I gallopt away whether my Fortune would conduct me, and continu'd moving, till towards night, where coming into a Grove, whose unfrequent∣edness was fit for my melancholly, as well as safety (for I was loath Par∣thenissa should satisfy her Eyes with my Execution) I lighted off my Horse, and giving him to Simander, I flung my self upon the Grass, and there be∣gan to consider the sad condition I was in, which was so much the more so, by how much my happiness had been so lately great. Parthenissa's incon∣stancy appear'd so odious, that I could not have the patience to think on her, nor it. But that which caus'd indeed, my real grief, was, the unwor∣thy return my sad condition forc'd me to make the fair Zephalinda, who for all her gallantry and friendship, had no other payment but the neg∣lect of her Affection, and the murther of her Brother. These thoughts were more insupportable than my own misfortunes, and that which brought an accession to mine, was, that my actions of Ingratitude would be as apparent, as my sorrows for them would be the contrary. After a thousand reflections of this quality, I resolv'd at last to write to her, and finding no Ink more proper for the occasion than some Bloud which ran from a slight hurt, I made use of it, and writ these few words.

ARTABANES to the Princess ZEPHALINDA.

'TIs in bloud that I have offended you (Madam) and 'tis in bloud that your pardon is begg'd by the miserable Artabanes, whose Love and Hatred to Parthenissa were ordain'd to make him equally injurious to your quiet. I must confess, it had been more suitable to my despair, as well as friend∣ship, to have fallen by Surena's Sword, and so have merited your pity, rather than to have been necessitated to implore your Mercy. But great gods! to what a strait did you reduce me? To dye, had been the triumph of my Enemy, and to kill, makes the trouble of my Friend; the first rendring me unfortunate, the latter guilty: But since those Powers which create our destinies, has made the last of these mine; I am resolv'd to take some such forlorn course, that though you cannot commend the past actions, yet you shall the future suffer∣ings I will inflict upon the Criminal Artabanes.

I writ another Letter to Arsaces, wherein I told him, that I was almost as much troubl'd to draw my sword against his Favourite, as at the cause of it; that I had injur'd his Laws, to avoid doing the like unto his Judge∣ment, which might have receiv'd some blemish by his electing one to re∣venge a publique affront that wanted courage to resent a private one of the highest nature; that though by this action I had render'd my self unca∣pable of serving him, yet by declining it, I had made my self unworthy of that honour; so that of two crimes, I elected but the least. And since the gods by Surena's defeat, declar'd him guilty, I could not believe that he which bore their Image, would be of a different opinion. I folded these two Letters in a third, to my generous friend, the Prince Sillaces, to whose care I commended Lindadory, and all things else I had any concern for, and from whom I begg'd a thousand pardons, for not having acquainted him at first with the cause of those miseries, which forc'd me to a voluntary, and eternal banishment. Whilst our Horses were taking that refreshment which their hard travel requir'd, I was disputing what course to elect, and after many Proposals, I resolv'd to pass through Mesopotamia and Syria, and so thence by Sea for Italy, and in the darkest horrors of those Moun∣tains, which separates that Countrey from the Gauls, spend those sad days allotted to miserable life. That which made me fix upon this place above any other, was, that the horridness of the Alpes would be more sutable to my melancholly than any other, and by being in the heart of the Roman Empire, I knew the innate hatred of the Parthians to that people, would never permit those which should search after me, to doubt of my residence, or if they did, the danger of coming into an Enemies Countrey, might deter them from following me.

Here Artabanes putting a stop to his Narration, addrest himself to Callimachus, and told him, I have, Sir, to obey your commands, forc'd my inclination to relate unto you, a part of my unfortunate Life, least you might have fail'd in the knowledge of those particulars, which perhaps Simander was not perfectly acquainted with: But now, what is remaining he has been an Actor, or a Sufferer in, and consequently, will omit, no∣thing that is worthy your knowledge; I shall therefore beg you (if you are not already tir'd with the hearing of my misfortunes) permit Siman∣der, to put an end unto their Story, and give me leave to absent my self

from a relation that will awaken despair, which of it self is but too apt to torment me. The good Callimachus having by a thousand expressions, excus'd the rudeness of his curiosity, told him, Generous Artabanes, I have already (I fear) so far transgress'd, that I cannot expect a pardon from a less goodness than yours, and therefore will not persevere in a crime which may make you as justly my enemy, as Fortune is unjustly yours. Artabanes having made Callimachus a return suitable to his civi∣lity, commanded his faithful Simander (who was present at the latter part of his relation) to satisfy his engagement, and then retir'd into a So∣litude, to entertain his Melancholly, which was too just not to be great. Artabanes was no sooner gone, than Callimachus invited his faithful Si∣mander to obey his generous Prince, which he did, by continuing his Adventures in these words,

AFter my unfortunate Master had assum'd a resolution so suitable to his despair, and that all those reasons my affection furnisht me with, could no way alter it, I thought it my duty as much as 'twas my inclination, to bear a share with him in all his miseries, and justify by my sufferings how ambitious I was to deserve a favour which I had no title to, but his having conferr'd it on me; and though by many per∣swasions, and commands, he disswaded me from tying my Fortunes upon one to whom (he said) the gods had so much declar'd themselves Enemies, yet I was as firm in my resolution of waiting on him, as he was in his of abandoning the World. By this time our Horses having taken that rest which we thought fitting, we began to continue our journey, the Moon affording us her Light, and the first Village we came unto, we waken'd some Peasants, where my Prince having seal'd his Packet, en∣gag'd one of them (by giving him a good reward) to carry it the next day to the Court, and present it to the generous Sillaces. This being done, we continued our voyage, but because I have so many essential things to relate, I will not load your patience by repeating all those accidents which happen'd in our crossing of Syria, and Mesopotamia, nor till our coming to Antioch, since without any considerable adventures, we at last safely arrived there; onely I may not omit to inform you, that in twenty days travel, I never heard Artabanes repine at Parthemissa's cru∣elty, either that his wrongs had extinguisht his Love, or the greatness of his resentments hinder'd the expressions of them; but I am the more inclin'd to believe the latter, since his Sighs and Tears (his inseparable companions) acknowledged some internal grief, produc'd them; and truly he was thereby so chang'd, that had not his griefs been an unde∣niable proof of him that utter'd them, I should have suspected I had chang'd my Master. But as if all things had contributed to hasten my Prince unto his solitude, we met a Ship at Antioch, ready to weigh An∣chor for Cyprus, where she was to unload her Merchandize in a Man of War, that was directly bound for Ostia, which is a small Harbor the Ti∣ber makes, when it falls into the Mediterranean sea. This conveniency we joyfully embrac'd, and the Wind blowing fair at East, we were full of expectation in few days to arrive safely in that famous Island where the Queen of Love had chosen her earthly Residence. We were not many Leagues from our desired Harbor, when those upon the Main-top that were looking for Land, cry'd out, a Sail, a Sail; the Master of our Ship went instantly up to discover the truth of this Alarm, and had not been long there, but clapping his hands upon his Breast, he said with

great Passion we are all undone, 'tis Menas, This was that Menas, Pompey the Great took at Sea, when he commanded the Roman Fleet, and ask∣ing him how he durst commit so high sins, as to kill those, and take a∣way their Goods, which never did him any wrong, was thus answer'd: If (said he) my Actions are Crimes, why then dost thou practise them? but because thou rob'st securely with a whole Fleet, thou givest thy self the name of a Conqueror, and because I rob with more hazard, and but with one single Gally, thou call'st me a Pirate, when there is no diffe∣rence between our performances, but that which Force and Numbers create. This bold, (and perhaps true) reply so operated on the ge∣nerous Pompey, that he gave Menas his life, for which he did him such signal services, that at last he gave him too his liberty; but being ac∣customed from his Youth, to that barbarous profession, he could not decline it, and in a short while after fell to a relapse. He was indeed so fa∣mous in all those Seas, that oftentimes his name presented him with Victo∣ry: and truly I believe we should have felt, as well as heard that Truth, had not Artabanes, (perceiving our fears) by a generous exhortation, in∣vited us to a defence. For, if (said he) your Enemies are generous, your Gallantry, if you be vanquisht, will make your usage so: if they are not, your resistance may purchase your safety, at least, 'tis more like Men to owe our sufferings to our misfortunes than our selves. To be brief, his ra∣vishing Eloquence furnisht him with such powerful Arguments, that those timerous Spirits, which even now were ready co yield without disputing the Victory, were now so alter'd, that they breath'd nothing but the combat. We were in all, (Passengers and Seamen) about an hundred, and my Prince taking upon himself the whole charge, divided his Men into two Squadrons, the one he took to himself, the other he gave me the honour to command. Then, lest those new-rais'd courages should cool, he commanded the Pilot to tack about, and resolv'd to save Me∣nas the labour of overtaking him, who was chasing us with Oars and Sails. 'Twas then I perceiv'd in my generous Prince's Face, a dissipa∣tion of those Clouds, his Miseries had there created, and in their place, a Countenance so Martial, and so Charming, that 'twas as impossible for his Enemies not to fear, as for his Friends not to admire him. By this time the Pirates were so close come up, that Artabanes commanded the Seamen to grapple Menas's Gally, and not giving him leave to Assault us, he leapt into the thickest of the Enemies, and with his Sword made the Pass easy for those that follow'd him. Our Adversaries, who were not accustomed to resistance, found this Action as strange, as we knew it to be generous; and I believe their amazement something contributed to our seeming Victory, but when those that fled the fury of my Prince's Arms, had acquainted Menas, that unless he appear'd, and acted, all would be lost; that old Pirate, who at first thinking us unworthy his Sword, had commanded one of his Lieutenants to take us, finding our resistance need∣ed all his Power, instantly arm'd himself, and with a select number of Sol∣diers, which he always reserv'd for some such desperate exigency, came out upon the Decks, where by the greatness of his loss, judging at the greatness of his danger, he call'd up that Courage, which had made him so justly famous, and therewith renew'd the Fight with such resolution, that many of our Men, being terrified with the Fury of his blows, began to shrink, and at last, to retire unto their own Ship; this cowardice heightned our Enemies, which Artabanes easily perceiv'd, and observing, the turn proceeded onely from the Valour of Menas,

he made a lane through all those that oppos'd his doing so, and at last, joyning with the old Pirate, with one blow, he struck him at his Feet, and finding by the rare temper of his Helmet, that his fall proceeded from being stunn'd, not kill'd, he was searching the defects of his Armor, to finish his Victory: which whilst he was doing, one of the Pyrats coming behind him, had lift up his Sword to kill my generous Prince, but as the gods would have it, I came to his rescue and with one blow cut that sacrilegious Arm off, and with a thrust, ended his life. The noise which the Pirate I had kill'd made in falling, saved Menas's life, for my Prince turning about, to learn from whence that death proceeded, some of the Enemies (taking the opportunity) dragg'd their Captain into the Stern-Cabbin. But to be brief, our companions, whose Courages (by the sight of so much Blood) were quite drown'd, abandon'd the generous Artabanes, who being too weak of himself, having onely so unworthy a Second as Simander, to resist such numbers as came fresh upon him, receiv'd so many wounds, that his strength began to fail him, but yet upon his knees, he so generously disputed the Victory, that Fortune by it appear'd sufficiently blind, for could she have seen his vertue, she could not but have rewarded it, but at length he lost such a Sea of Blood, that he could make no more re∣sistance, and crying out, Ah Death! thou art merciful, and curest the wounds which Parthenissa gave, He fell, (as I then thought) eternally. Oh gods! what did not my rage then make me utter? I found my grief so much, that bestriding my generous Princes Body, I cry'd out, finish, finish, ye barbarous Tyrants your cruelty, and bend all your Swords ••a∣gainst my Breast, for since you have by Numbers, not Valour, destroy∣ed the perfectest of Men, I will no longer survive that loss; and indeed, their desire of Blood so well seconded my desire of losing all mine, that having received as many wounds, as I was confident would not give me the misfortune of out-living my Prince, I flung my self on his pale Body and having a thousand times embrac't him, and kist his hands and feet, I there fainted, acting those last expressions of my Fidelity. In the mean while, Menas by the care of his Soldiers, being come again to himself, de∣manded what was the issue of the fight, and what was become of him, whose Valour he had, so much to his prejudice, resented? they answer∣ed him, that all but the valiant Enemy he enquir'd after, and one more, had long since yielded themselves to mercy, but he, as if his forces had been increased by his Companions fears, was yet nobly disputing his life, which was so weakn'd by many wounds, that if he were not yet dead, the time of his fall could not be long. Menas, whose Nature had some light of generosity, though clouded by his Profession, and the daily exam∣ples of cruelty, was so taken with Artabanes's courage, that causing him∣self to be carried upon the Deck, did there intend to preserve him, if it were in his power. I knew not whether the belief of our being kill'd, hin∣der'd our Conquerors from doing us any further harm, or whether my ex∣pressions and actions to my Prince, did suspend for a while the cruelty of those Monsters, but whatsoever was the cause, they wounded us no more after we were fallen, and Menas coming when the Pirats were beginning to strip us, forbad it, and commanding his Chyrurgeons to employ all their skill in our recovery, or if it were past their Art, then he ordered Galippus his Lieutenant, to give us burial, as if himself had been in our condition. And because his care should equal our need of it, he caus'd us to be brought into his own Cabbin, where our wounds being searcht,

the Chirurgeons assur'd him, my Master had none that were mortal, and that onely the loss of Blood had reduc'd him to that extremity; For what concern'd me, they told him, I was in much more danger, but if they could draw out the head of a Javelin that struck in my back, there might be some hope of my recovery. In the mean time, by strong Cordials we came to our selves, but my Prince, long before me, and to my great glory (as those that waited on us, told me) the first thing he said, was, Ah poor Siman∣der. For my part, as soon as I found my wounds drest, and remember'd with what design I receiv'd them, I tore off all my Plaisters, and calling those that were by me, a thousand names for their care, I vow'd by all the gods I would no longer live. Then I begg'd them with Tears, to bring me to my Masters Body, and permit me to expire upon it. They seem'd to be very glad, that my despair proceeded from a cause they could so easily re∣move, and therefore to console me, they vow'd my Master was alive, and in the same Cabbin; but I could not credit so great a happiness, till some of them acquainted him with my diffidence, which made him force himself to say, yes Simander, I live, Fortune is yet too much my Enemy, to end my miseries. Ah Sir, (I reply'd, with excessive raptures of joy) your Ver∣tue will at last conquer her. 'T is a strange thing, how after the knowledge of my Prince's being alive, I willingly endur'd all those hideous pains, which conduc'd to my recovery, courting my Chirurgeons to hasten my cure, though by the increase of my torment, that I might be quickly well, to be near my Prince, and to pay him that service I have ever vow'd him. During the space of a quarter of a year, whilst our wounds were heal∣ing, we receiv'd as many civilities from Menas, as we could have expected from our Friends, but we were no sooner perfectly recover'd, than he com∣manded my Prince to be brought unto him, (and with a countenance (as barbarous as his Profession) told him, I have sent for thee, to know what madness 'twas invited thee to make a resistance, where hope, (as flattering as 'tis) could not afford thee a probability of success? To which my Prince reply'd, with an assuredness more suitable to his mind than his con∣dition; I know not why thou shouldst think it strange, that the desire of preserving my liberty, should not be as powerful with me, as that of de∣priving me of it, or of a little gain was with thee; but when my life was as great a blessing to me, as now it is the contrary, I never knew why Death was not a better election than Chains. Yet me thinks (said Menas) thou shouldst not prefer Death before Captivity, since the former cuts off all expectation, and the latter allows thee some. The first (reply'd Arta∣banes) as it cuts off all hope, so it cuts off all shame and suffering; and the latter, whilst it leaves us onely expectations of good, makes us resent all evil: but if there be any Spirits so low as to make such a choice, I wish it may be their fortune. How dar'st thou (said the old Pirat) so far provoke me, when thou knowest thy life is in my hands? because (reply'd Artabanes' tis in thy hands. But why (continued Menas) didst thou tye thy self so ob∣stinately to me, rather than any other, when thou knewest, that by it thou gavest him the Will that had the Power to punish thee? I found thee (said my Prince) the worthiest of my Sword, and an action is gallant, 'tis not my custom to consult with Fear. Artabanes had no sooner spoken these words, than Menas imbrac't him, and cry'd out, O the most generous amongst Men! if Pompey the Great were not living, thou deservest thy liberty: but to be his, is more glorious than freedom, and 'tis to that Honor I design thee. After a million of barbarous Expressions of the highest esteem he had of my Masters generosity, he declar'd, he should be his companion

till his arrival at Ostia (which was the place we had at first design'd, though for a different intention) where in few days after we came, and there Menas elected fourscore of his best slaves (the most of the•• Gentlemen) amongst which my Prince and I were two) and having tied to every of them a little Chain of Gold as an evincement of servitude; he sent us ashore under the conduct of Gallippus a Silesian, in whom he put his greatest confidence, and who was ordered to present us to Pompey. The next day after our landing, we came to Rome, and saw that glorious Town proud with the spoils of all the World, and some of those great Men who from private Citizens rais'd themselves by their virtue to give Laws to mighty Kings, and have in time added more Crowns to the Empire of Rome than there are almost inhabitants within her Walls. But we soon learn'd that Pompey the great had but lately under∣taken the voyage of Asia, to receive Lucullus's Command and Army, who was sent for back by the Senate, being, after all his Victories, become a triumph to his Soldiers. Yet though Pompey had left Rome, he was not gone out of Italy, but was necessitated to remain at Capua, for some dis∣patches were not yet perfected. This made Gallippus send a messenger to Menas for his orders, and us continue for some time longer in Rome than otherwise we should have done. I cannot here omit a very remar∣kable accident that besel my Prince, who as he slept, had a Snake which came and inviron'd his Temples, in the form of a Lawrel, which a slave possest with Bacchus's spirit of Divination observing, cry'd out, that it was an infallible sign of his being victorious and successful in the Wars. By this Menas had sent directions for us to go by Land to Capua, where Pompey then was, and where at last we arriv'd, and were by Gallippus pre∣sented to him, just as he was going to take ship for Asia. This great Man (when he saw Artabanes) fixt his eyes on him, and calling some of his fa∣miliar Friends, told them, Either all the rules of Physiognomy are false, or that slave (pointing at my Prince) is not what his present habit speaks him, but possesses a mind that deserves as good fortune as that he is now in his ill. Sir (reply'd Gallippus) his looks cannot promise more gallan∣try than his actions will make good; and had not Menas esteem'd it a higher hap-piness for him to be your Slave than to be free, he had long since restor'd him to that liberty his misfortune not his want of courage made him lose: Thereupon Gallippus told him all the story how my generons Master was ta∣ken Prisoner, which when Pompey had heard, he reply'd, The gods forbid, that because your Captain has a better opinion of me than I merit, that therefore this Prisoner should undergo a misery which by your own confes∣sion he does not but upon that score. Thereupon he commanded Gallippus to set my Prince and me free, and to tell Menas, that furnishing him with an occasion to oblige a gallant Man, was a greater present than all those other slaves he bestowed on him. Gallippus who had contracted a high opinion for my Masters virtue, was going with a great satisfaction to observe Pompey's directions, when Artabanes's ill fate (which has never been tir'd with affli∣cting him) made Lentulus Batiatus (who was extremely taken with my Prince) so earnestly to beg him of Pompey, that at last (though with much reluctancy) he revok'd his promise, and not onely granted Batiatus's re∣quest, but also gave him all those other slaves which Menas had presen∣ted him. This Batiatus was the chiefest Citizen in Capua, and one who Pompey durst not disoblige, being of his Council in that great design of making himself Emperor of the World, whose foundation was then laid, but after was destroy'd by the happier fortune of Iulius Caesar, who pos∣sest

what this did but imagine. Batiatus having waited upon Pompey out of Capua, was no sooner return'd then calling for my Prince, he ask'd him, his Name and Countrey. Artabanes, whose hatred for him was as great as just, told him, with an accent which exprest his resentment, That be∣ing a slave, he had neither Name nor Countrey. Which reply so incens'd the barbarous Batiatus, that he commanded him instantly to be put into Chains, and kept with his other common Slaves. Great gods! when I saw those hands loaden with Irons, which if virtue had been a title to Empire should have sway'd the Scepters of the World; What did not my fury suggest in me? I curst a million of times Parthenissa's incon∣stancy, that had cast my dear Master into miseries almost as great as his virtue, and condemned with many imprecations the weakness of Pompey's, which the desire of an unworthy Citizen could soon destroy: at last I was resolv'd to acquaint our Tyrant with my Princes quality and birth, and by the assurance of an excessive Ransom, free him from that Captivity his unjust Fate had flung him into. But then the considerati∣on of those sacred Oaths Artabanes had extorted from me never to reveal that secret but by his consent, supprest my resolution, and made me take up that of endeavouring to perswade him to it himself, or else to give me his permission for it. Therefore taking my opportunity, I begg'd him with a stream of Tears, that he would not by any obstinate silence un∣dergo so low a destiny, but by acquainting Batiatus with his quality, procure a civil usage till his Ransom came: That then he would return into Parthia, there having obtain'd a pardon for Surena's death, evince to Parthenissa, by a carriage void of all trouble, how easily he could di∣vest himself of his Passion, when she could throw off her Constancy; that it was her virtue not her beauty onely he ador'd: and since she could decline the first, he could as easily the latter. Hold thy peace Si∣mander (said my Prince, interrupting me) do not add unto my miseries by thy impious discourse of Parthenissa, she is yet the highest thing in my esteem; for I am upon better consideration apter to believe 'twas some defects she found in me than any which were in her, that made her re∣call the blessed joy of her affection; and so that which thou termest in∣constancy, may be her Justice. No, no, Simander (he continu'd) since the gods have profest themselves so much my adversaries, tie not thy for∣tune unto the most wretched of men: I have some Jewels that scapt the Pirates, take them and buy thy freedom, then return into thy Coun∣trey; where I shall pray thou may'st enjoy a felicity equal to thy virtue; and let me alone to wrestle with my misfortunes; for I had far rather pe∣rish in this miserable Prison, and under the weight of these Chains, than see Parthenissa scorn my Flame, or by her embraces recompence any others. By this thou may'st in some sort guess at the greatness of my torments, when slavery is a comparative happiness. My Prince had no sooner done speaking than flinging my self at his feet, I told him, Oh Sir! Have all my miseries not yet obtain'd your leave to bear a share in your misfortunes? Can you speak to me of felicity when you are loaden with Irons? Alas, What fault have I committed, that you should esteem me worthy the mi∣sery of liberty? I attest the gods, that the sence of your torments create the greatest I endure, and that I can drown my own by the consideration of yours; whose liberty I would joyfully purchase by the loss of my own eternally. Therefore, Sir, (I continu'd, embracing of his knees) I con∣jure you by your virtue, and those services which I hope I shall live to pay you, and by that Parthenissa, whom you do yet so highly reve∣rence,

do not banish me from the glory of suffering with you, nor have so low an opinion of my fidelity, as to think any thing but death shall separate me from you. To which Artabanes reply'd, That his knowledge of my affection for him, and not his diffidence of it, made him press me to return into Parthia, but since I assur'd him, to be near his person, was a higher satisfaction, he granted my request, though it were to the aug∣mentation of his misery, which he profest to me was much increast by the share I had in it. I had scarce kist his hands as an acknowledgement of his favour, and my joy, but Batiatus came in, who commanded his Chains to be taken off, that he might be the fitter for that employment to which, next morning, he design'd him; then he selected some twenty of the ablest Slaves, who, together with Artabanes, were set apart for Gladiators, and then went away. The Gladiators (as the Romans call them) are certain Captives who are kept to fight at sharp, one against an∣other in Amphitheaters, for their Masters, or the Peoples pastime, which sort of Combats, always ends at least with the loss of much Bloud, and oftentimes with the lives of the Actors. As soon as my Prince learn'd by some of the other Slaves what he was destin'd to, he curst a hundred times his ignorance of the Roman Customs that had sav'd Batiatus's life; for cer∣tainly, had he known the cause why his Chains were taken off, he had em∣ployed them to kill the Commander of it. But after having walked two or three turns, with looks and actions, expressing his just resentments, he at last desir'd his fellow-prisoners silence and attention; which being easily obtain'd, he spoke to them much to this purpose; Friends and Com∣panions in misery, That Fortune has made us Slaves is her fault, that we should continue so, will be ours, since a quiet submission to her cruelty tacitely acknowledges we deserve it, and makes that which is an effect of her blindess, appear a confession of her justice. You have assur'd me often, that you are all Gentlemen, that Title obliges you sooner to wear death's Livery than Batiatus's; let us therefore, by some gallant at∣tempt, shew how worthy we were of Liberty, or by dying hand∣somely, how unworthy we are of Chains: Death is the worst can befal us, yet it is a comparative happiness to our present condition: If the gods do not favour our endeavours, but take from us all those ways that lead to freedom, they do thereby invite us to kill our selves; which to perform, is not to sin, but to obey them. To move us to this, you see to what the cruel Batiatus designs us, let us therefore resolve to mor∣row, when we are upon the Theatre Arm'd, to make use of our Swords to a contrary action to that, for which they were given us; and since they delight in Bloud, let us make them surfet of it, by employing our lives which they destin'd for their pleasure, unto their punishment: This is the way, if we cannot reach our liberty, yet at least to reach revenge, which will be as pleasing as the Irons we now wear are insupportable. My Prince had no sooner done speaking, than, Canitius, (one of the chief∣est amongst the Slaves) reply'd, That he was sorry such powerful in∣ducements were laid down to invite them to that action, since their un∣dertaking of it now, would rather appear to proceed from their judge∣ment, than their inclinations: That he so well understood the hearts of his companions, he durst engage himself they would every one of them elect Death before Slavery, but that he was of opinion, they might obtain their liberty by a less hazardous way, than what was then propound∣ed; for every day (said he) the Gladiators are to fight, 'tis the custom to feed them very early, that they may digest their Meat before the

combat, and be the better able to perform it. This being most certain, my advice is, when our keepers to morrow come in to feed us, we seize upon their Swords, and kill them, lest they should make any noise; then with their Keyes we may open the doors to our liberty, and per∣haps (being early) the Streets may be so empty of people, that with lit∣tle resistance we may get out of the Town, and recover the Mountains of Pettely, where it will be difficult, if not impossible to take us. This motion was highly relisht by all the company, and the onely thing my Prince dislik'd in it was, that Batiatus would scape unpunisht, but the rest consenting, he saw 'twas in vain to oppose it. You may easily ima∣gine we were not a little impatient till the break of day, which no sooner appear'd than our Keepers (which were four in number) came into our Prison, where whilst they were distributing of victuals and blows toge∣ther (for Cruelty is a badge inseparable from their Office) Artabanes, Ca∣nitius, one Castus, and I, drew out their Swords, and sheath'd them in their own bodies, with such expedition, that they had their fate before they could fear it: Then taking their Keyes, we open'd the doors of the Pri∣son, and coming into the great Court of Batiatus's house (which we were necessitated to pass thorow to get into the Street) we might perceve him (as the gods would have it, who always punish cruelty) attended one∣ly by a couple of his menial Servants, and (as we conjectur'd) coming to visit us; his amazement was so great when he saw us all at liberty, that he had not power to fly, which gave Castus sufficient time to take away his life, but his Servants scapt, and by their cryes drew many people in∣to the Streets, most of them in their shirts, for it was very early: Those of the Capuans that had Arms, perceiving we had but four Swords, fell upon us very resolutely; and (doubtless) had cut us off had we not reco∣vered a narrow Lane, where my Prince, Canitius, Castus, and I (who were those onely that had Arms) making good the entrance of it, gave our Companions time to break into a Cooks-shop that was behind us; where having fitted themselves, some with spits, others with long knives, and such kind of Weapons, observing how our Enemies increast, and that delay would bring a certain ruine, we charg'd them so furiously that we made way through all those that oppos'd us, and by the death of some 30 or 40, ecover'd that Gate of the Town which leads to the Mountains of Pettely just as some of the Inhabitants were going to shut it, who as soon as they perceiv'd us, fled and left us a free passage, the Capuans not daring then to pursue us any further. In this Retreat, my Prince and Ca∣nitius brought up the Rear, Castus and I led our Companions; and though we were four wounded, yet it was so favourably, that it hin∣der'd not our march. We were not sixteen furlongs out of Cap••a (which according to the Roman account makes two Miles) when we overtook some Horses loaden with Weapons for Fencers, going to Salapia, those Horse and Arms we seiz'd on, (but did the owners no harm) and had scarcely fitted our selves with them, when we might perceive 300 Capuaus, that follow'd us with an eagerness that spoke their intentions. The inequa∣lity of our numbers did somewhat startle our Companions at the first, but my generous Prince so animated them, that he made them not onely resolve to fight, but save the Capuans the labor of half their march; the Enemy perceiving our intentions, receiv'd our charge with much resolution, but Artabanes gave it with more, and did act in that occasion things so wor∣thy himself, that at last the Capuans were routed, and most of them kill'd, for we follow'd the execution to their very Gates, which we found

so ill guarded (an universal fear having seiz'd upon all the Inhabitants) that had our numbers been proportionable to our advantage, we might have possest that great City. But we were satisfi'd with our success, and at night retir'd our selves to a place of very strong scituation, which Ca∣stus shew'd us, who, by good fortune was perfectly acquainted with that Countrey. This place I speak of was a Hill of a great height, in the middle of a Plain, about eight Furlongs circumference, and inaccessible every way but one, by which also there could not come above five a-brest; The next morning we met together to chose our selves a Captain, know∣ing a body how little soever without a head is a Monster. My Prince was elected, whose valor and conduct in the late Fight gave him that place without either opposition or envy, to whom we all swore obedi∣ence till we might get out of Italy, and so return to our own Countreys, for we were of several Nations, though the most of any one were Thra∣cians. Then our new Soldiers desiring to know their Captains Country and Name, came and begg'd of him the knowledge of both, but my Prince, who would not acquaint them with either, lest it might in time discover him, desir'd their excuse, telling them he was ty'd to a concealment of both by some considerations: The Thracians then; who I told you were the most in number of any one Country, cry'd out, that they would thenceforwards call him Spartacus, which in their Language signifies Captain or General, and all the rest willingly con∣sented to it, which I shall beg you, (said Simander to Callimachus) to take notice of, for I shall for a while call my generous Master no more but by that name, since 'twas under it he purchas'd so great a proportion of Glory, that it cannot have an end till the World have. O gods! (said Calli∣machus to Simander) Is it then Artabanes, that under the name of Spar∣tacus, did from so weak a beginning shake the Roman Empire worse than ever Hannibal did? And who so fill'd the World with his generous Acti∣ons, that not to have heard of him is as great wonder as any he perform'd? This (reply'd Simander) is that same, Spartacus, who coming into Italy a Slave, loaded with Chains and Miseries, by his virtue and courage had certainly subjected the greatest Empire of the World, if at lest his Souldi∣ers had been of that temper which Hanniballs were; for Spartacus knew as well how to make use of a Victory as to win it, if that great general had done the like, and had follow'd success as much as success did him, he had made the Carthaginians Lords of all the World. One great advantage Hannibal had, which was, though his Army were compos'd of several Nati∣ons, yet they never mutiny'd, but with as much satisfaction as duty observ'd his orders. If my generous Master had enjoy'd that blessing, the Par∣thians had now held that Empire in possession, which the Carthaginians only had in expectation, as you shall hear by the sequel of my discourse. Which said Callimachus, I must interrupt, to beg you to resolve me two doubts, the first is, Why the Romans gave out that Spartacus was a Thracian? and the second, Why they said he was kill'd in that famous Battel of the Trenches, which he fought against Marcus Crassus? To satisfie your first doubt (reply'd Simander) I must acquaint you that those Thracians which gave him the name of Spartacus, when they saw his glorious Victories, and that he would not then discover where he was born, resolv'd since he took his name out of their Language to give him his original from their Countrey, which my Prince did not contradict for those reasons I formerly specifi'd, so that the Romans when they said he was a Thra∣cian, gave out but that which they credited themselves. To your se∣cond

cond doubt, which concerns his supposed death, I shall beg your pati∣ence but a little, that I may tell it you in its due order; for I perceive by your questions you are already acquainted with so much of my Prince's adventures, that it will very much shorten the Relation of them. I must confess (reply'd Callimachus) though my profession and inclination have made me these few years live a recluse life, and give me no great curio∣sity to enquire after news, yet your generous Princes actions have reach'd my ears, but in so confus'd a way, that you will do me a singular favour to ac∣quaint me with all the particulars, being so enamour'd of his virtue, that I cannot but be highly interested in any thing that relates unto a further knowledge of it: then begging Simanders excuse for having desir'd to an∣ticipate his Relation, which he besought him to receive as an argument of his great concernment in Artabanes's safety, by his silence invited him to continue his discourse, which Simander did in these words: I left off where Artabanes under the name of Spartacus was chosen Captain by his compa∣nions, which title oblig'd him to provide for all their fafeties: his first cares were, to fortifie our Fort, (which he did by making many Traver∣ses upon the Avenues) and to procure a Magaxine of Victuals, which at last he accomplisht; but with much difficulty, being constrained to fight for every thing he brought in. The Capuans too were taking order for their safeties; and having found by their first essay, that 'twas not an easie thing to conquer us in the Field, but far more hardly to be effected in the strong Fort we were in, having furnisht it with all necessaries for three Months, dispatcht away some of their Citizens to Rome, to acquaint the Senate with what was past, and to implore their aid for the suppressing of their Bondmen (for so they always term'd us.) The Senate taking their motion into debate, and finding how great prejudice all Italy had re∣ceived by the Slaves that were risen in Sicily (which were not then quite supprest) how that from a weak beginning, they had made a dangerous progress, and that it would bring their Fame and their Empire into con∣tempt, when that their very Slaves could endanger both, resolv'd for this expedition to employ Clodius the Pretor, with Three thousand Men, who, having receiv'd his Commission (which was to put us all to the Sword) left Rome, and by great marches advanced towards us: we were not ig∣norant of these preparations by the industry of Castus (who knowing the Countrey was empoly'd as a Spy, and till we were besieg'd, brought us frequent and true intelligences; but at last the Pretor and his Army, (which was recruited by some additional Forces out of Capua) were come so near us, that they drew up in Battalia, and faced our Fort. Spartacus, who was resolv'd to make them dispute every foot of ground, made some such vigorous Sallies, that the Romans were hinder'd from Camping above 24 hours, and had our numbers been equal to our resolutions, we had made our Enemies know, that those they had to deal with, had nothing of Slaves but the Name. My Prince having acquainted Clodus, by the loss of Two hundred of his Soldiers, of what temper we made, gave him leave to settle his Camp, lest he might harrass his own Men more than the E∣nemies. The Pretor, who understood the art of war, and knew the truth of this Maxime, That a place strong by scituation is easily blockt up, elected that way of conquering us; But since I have so many things of Soldiery to acquaint you with, I must run them over briefly, by telling you, That though the season of the the year were very incommodious to lodge in the open air, yet the Romans having endured a world of mi∣series by the fury of the weather, would not (for all) decline their

Seige, but by the continuance of it reduc'd us to that extremity for want of Victuals, that we resolv'd, rather than suffer the torments of Famine, to fall upon all the Army, and with our Swords in our hands dye, acting our revenge; which determination we had the next morning put in practice, had not I found out a strange way for our deliverance: for the evening preceding that day, in which we resolv'd to perform our despe∣rate enterprize, as I was looking over our Fort, I took notice of certain wild Vines, that grew upon the side of the Rocks, so thick, and in such abundance, that I began to fancy it no very difficult thing, by their help, and our own industry, to get down into the Plain. This imaginati∣on I instantly communicated to Spartacus, and to the rest, who having viewed the place, were all of my opinion; we therefore began to make Lad∣ders, like those in Ships, for the Vines being supple, of a great length, and strong, were almost as useful as Ropes, and the Rocks not making one conti∣nued precipice, but in some places resembling Scaffolds and stages, did so facilitate our attempt, that two hours before day, we all safely descend∣ed on the Plain; my generous Master having led us the way, which was always his practice, where there was any danger. Then as we were go∣ing to advise with Castus, what way to take to recover the Mountain, my Prince over-hearing it, came, and begg'd us to make use of no other guide but him, and to take no other way, but that which led to the Roman Camp, where Victory, as certain as it would be glorious, did attend us: In a word, he told us so many arguments for embracing so happy an op∣portunity, that they preferr'd the honor of the attempt before their own safety, and obeyed Spartacus, who leading them some ten furlongs about, fell into Clodius Camp, and found them so unprepar'd, (for they kept no Centuries, but towards the Advenues of our Fort, having all Italy to friend besides) that we kill'd above 500 of them in their Hutts, before they took the Alarm, which at last was so hot (not knowing from whence so great an execution proceeded) that Clodius and all those that escap'd the fury of our Swords, were obliged to their Feet for their safeties, and left us the quiet possession of their Camp, with all the Riches, Victuals, and Arms in it. The report of this great success, was so suddainly dispersed, that in less than ten days, above 1000, as well slaves, as discotented and poor Men, came to offer their service to my Prince, who willingly re∣ceived them, and gave Arms to such as wanted any, out of those he had taken from the Pretor. But Spartacus having no bank of Treasure to maintain such a confluence of People, as every day came thronging un∣der his Ensigns, and knowing, that to live upon the spoil, was as dishonest as unpolitick, and would so scatter his Army, that the Romans could not miss an occasion of destroying it, publish'd, that if the Countrey would send him in a competent proportion of Victuals and Money, they should receive no prejudice, but if they neglected so favourable an offer, what∣soever miseries they suffered by it, must be cast upon the score of their obstinacy. This in some places prevail'd, but in others it did not, those enjoyed the effects of his clemency, and these resented the reward of their wilfulness. But to confine my self to my ingagement of running over briefly all my Princes generous actions in this War, I will acquaint you, that the Romans, after the defeat of Clodius, sent Varinus the Pretor with 800 Men against Spartacus, and because his Army was to be formed out of several Garrisons, which of necessity would take up some time, he sent Furius his Lieutenant, with 2000 Soldiers before him, to preserve the Countrey from our incursions, which my Prince having intelligence of,

drew out a thousand of his select Men, and marcht all night with them towards a Valley, which Furius was to pass through next morning, and there, an hour before day, in two small Groves about a furlong asunder, he lodg'd his party. We had not long continu'd in expectation of our enemies, but we saw Furius in the head of his Army, marching in very good order, which Spartacus soon broke, for discovering himself with six hundred of his Soldiers, he gave the Romans, so resolute and unexpect∣ed a charge, that at first he discompos'd them. But Furius, who percei∣ved how unconsiderable our numbers were, soon rallied his men, and then gave us so vigorous a repayment, that we found it high time to give the signal for Canitius and Castus, with those four hundred Men that were yet in one of the Groves for our reserve, which no sooner appear'd, than the Enemy fled, not knowing but that every Wood might have been so furnisht. The Countrey being very fit to follow the execution, there escap't not above 100 in all, of which number, Furius was none, who scorning to owe his safety to his flight, thrust himself into the midst of us, and there found that fate which Spartacus endeavoured to prevent; but the eagerness of his Soldiers was such, that he could only oblige him in design, and not in action, yet after his death, he gave him a Burial suita∣ble to the esteem he had conceiv'd of his Courage. This defeat increas'd our Army much more than the Romans lost in it, and the Senate no soon∣er heard of it, but they resolv'd by a powerful force, to pluck up this War by the Roots, and not to send inconsiderable numbers against us, which did but serve to increase our reputation, and eclipse their own.

In order to which, they gave Cossinius the command of 10000 Men, and joyn'd him in Commission with Varinus, who by this was recruited with more than Furius had lost. Spartacus quickly found, that if these two Armies should joyn, 'twould be difficult, if not impossible, any lon∣ger to maintain a War, and therefore was projecting some way to avoid this storm, but fancied none so probable as by taking the field, which might furnish him with an occasion to fight with them asunder. His Army then consisting of 8000 Men, he marcht directly towards Varinus, who lay encamped 60 Furlong from our Fort, in expectation of his Colleague, who had then newly left Rome. My Prince having faced his Camp, in∣vited him out of it, and by many other ways endeavour'd to provoke him to Battel, but when he perceiv'd all was fruitless he entrencht him∣self eight Furlongs from the Pretor, gave out, that his Men ran away daily, and for four nights successively kept great Fires in his Camp, and permitted none of his Soldiers to appear without, nor within his Trenches. The first night having advertisement, that Cossinius was within a little days march of Varinus, with as much silence as an Army could rise, he quit his Camp, leaving some few to continue those accustomed Fires in it, and marcht all night towards Cossinus, whose Scouts being taken by some of ours, after a few threatenings, confest that their General was not then in his Camp, but lay at a small Village not far distant from it, to make use of certain Baths which were there. Spartacus immediately sent Castus with a commanded party of select Horse to surprize him, and con∣tinu'd his march towards the Enemy, but Cossinius got the Alarm time enough to recover to his Camp, which he was no sooner come into, than our Army stormed it, and after a bloudy resistance entred. There Cossi∣nius observing how my Prince pierc'd, and broke his resolutest Troops, had the confidence to fight with him, which cost him his life. His fall was no sooner divulg'd, but all his Army sought their security in their

feet, having found their Swords were unable to give it them; some two thousand escap'd, the rest were kill'd, and a few taken. The day by this time appear'd, and shew'd our Soldies, that the riches they had purchas'd by the victory, was as great as the Honour. Having rested and refresh∣ed themselves awhile, the next night we return'd to our own Camp, where we found how well Varinus had been deluded by our Fires, and our Soldiers not shewing themselves the five precedent days. This, Sir (con∣tinued Simander) is so strange, that were it not as general a known truth, I should not have the confidence to tell it you. The next morning after our return, Spartacus sent five hundred prisoners (taken at Cossinius's de∣feat) unto Varinus, and bid them tell him, though the Romans usage to him, and their barbarous Commissions they gave their Generals of shew∣ing no Mercy, deserved in justice, a proportionate return, yet he esteem'd an ill action fitter to be avoided than imitated, therefore presented him those Captives, having only exacted an oath from them, of not bearing Arms against him for a year. 'Twere hard to tell the severall conjectures our Enemies had in their Camp, when they perceiv'd those five hundred unarmed Men march up to them, but 'twere far more difficult to describe their grief when they knew the cause of it. The rage of this defeat, and the confidence Varinus had of not being reliev'd, made him alter that cold resolution of protracting the War, and by erecting a Scarlet Coat-Armour over his Tent (which is the Romans signal of Battel) gave us as much joy, as our success did afterwards afford him discontent. But his fury not having absolutely blinded his judgement, he drew up his Army in so advantageous a place, that he might retire safely into his Camp, if he found the Victory inclin'd to our side, which precaution he soon made use of, and by it deferr'd his ruine for a few days, which after∣wards happen'd near Salapia, a considerable Town in the East part of Italy, where the success was so entire, that not above fifteen hundred escaped, in which number Varinus was, having lost his Axes and Rods, the badges of his Pretorship, with the Officers that carried then, to whom Spartacus soon restor'd them, and them to their liberty; but our Army commanded them to tell the Senate, that their General would not make use of the Regalia's, till he had the Empire too. Amongst those Pri∣soners then taken, there was some young Men of Salapia, who thinking to have a share in Varinus Victory, were (the day before his defeat) come into his Army, and finding so different a fortune to that which they ex∣pected, desir'd to speak with Sparta••us, where they told him, that Sala∣pia was without any Garrison, that the chiefest Citizens in it, were their Friends and Kindred, and such with whom they had much power, which they would employ for the reducing of it into his hands, if he would restore them their freedom, and engage his faith that their Town and Townsmen should enjoy the same Immunities and Priviledges under him that they did under the Romans; in a word, they so represented the ter∣ror the Salapians were in, and the interest they had in them, that Spartacus granted un••o them whatsoever they desir'd, and immediately march'd di∣rectly thither. That which induc'd those Prisoners to make that overture, was, that some of our Officers in their d••scourse, had not only assur'd them, that the first design we should go upon, was to take in their City, but that they themselves must expect the last rigor of War, if they did not contribute their assistance in the reducing of it, which if they would undertake, and perform, might not onely be a singular advantage to Salapia, but preserve their own lives, which were so justly forfeited to

the Law of Arms. These Men, through such like infusions, were so ter∣rified, that partly out of relation to themselves, and partly out of care of their Town, which (without yielding) by the greatness of our Army (then indeed grown very considerable) must become in few days a prey to the insolent Soldier, inclin'd them to that motion, which was the cause of furnishing my Prince with an occasion of serving two of the most virtuous Lovers that time did produce, and in obliging them, he receiv'd a far higher satisfaction, than by taking of so important a place. By this our Army having fac'd Salapia, half those young Men were per∣mitted to try their power, the other half remaining as Hostages for them, and truly they were so successful in the attempt, having terrified the Salapians with the vastness of our Forces (which impressions they were apt enough to receive by the bloody defeat of Varinus the Pretor) that immediately they deputed some of the chiefest Citizens to treat with my Prince, for the conditions of their surrender, and had so far advanc'd the work, that every thing was on the point of conclusion, when a Mes∣senger from the Town desiring, and being admitted to speak with the Deputies, whisper'd them something in the Ear, after which, they all begg'd leave of Spartacus, to return for a while, there being in their ab∣sence some tumults happen'd amongst their Salapians, which nothing but their Presence could appease, which being granted, and they not a quar∣ter of an hour return'd, but those young Men that were imploy'd into Salapia, were sent back into the Camp, all the Walls Mann'd, and bloody Colours hung up, of which so sudden an alteration we could not imagine the cause, till those Prisoners told us, that during the Treaty, a young Gentleman called Perolla, who under the Romans had purchast much Glory, had by an Oration so perswaded the Salapians, that they were resolv'd rather to hazard their ruine by re∣sistance, than purchase the avoiding of it by a submission; that the Ci∣tizens having taken up that determination, would have detain'd them, lest Spartacus, incensed by their inconstancy, might inflict the punishment of it on them: Against which, they represented the injustice of the action, the certain death of their companions; and how 'twould give one that had the Power, the Will to destroy Salapia; but finding all their Rea∣sons rejected, they went to Perolla, whose Gallantry, they said, was as great as his Courage, and having acquainted him with the conditions on which they were sent into Salapia, and their desires, he not onely highly commended their honesty, but gave strict order they should return to the Camp, which no one durst oppose, all of them having trusted him for the time being, with the absolute Command, We soon found by this relation, the occasion of so sudden a change, and that Salapia must be pur∣chast with as much difficulty as a little before we were perswaded to have obtained it with ease. But Spartacus having fac'd it, found himself bound in Honour to make them repent the contemning of his Mercy, and there∣fore instantly securing all the Avenues, he gave directions for many s••aling Ladders, Rowling Bridges, and Faggots, to be forthwith provi∣ded: Then calling for all the Salapians, who were fifty in number, he told them, That he was sorry their Citizens had deluded him, but 'twas onely in relation to themselves, since it would render their de∣struction as just, as it was inevitable: that to conquer so considerable a place, was more for his Honour, than to have it given him: That he had endeavour'd to make them yield by fair means, because he preferr'd the saving of Blood before the Glory of his Army: That for their own par∣ticulars,

their declining the temptations of their friends, and returning to his Camp, when they could not but doubt his resentment was a strong proof of their Gallantry, or of the high opinion they had of his; either of which causes were equally obliging: that by the character they had given him of Perolla▪ he was more ambitious to have him for a Friend than an Enemy, but would not desire that happiness then, left it might deprive him of a certain Victory: That he so much valued Virtue (though in his Enemies) that lest Perolla's might not be well seconded, he gave them all (as well for his sake as for their own) their liberty, and leave to imploy it in his service, for the defence of Salapia, which he assur'd them would be all little enough, against an Army on whom Victory did as constantly as justly attend. The Salapians, who expected a quite contra∣ry entertainment, after many expressions of their joy and gratitude, re∣ply'd, That if upon their return, they could not perswade their Citizens to yield unto so generous a Conqueror; that yet at least upon their Ram∣parts, they would confirm the good opinion he had of their Coura∣ges, and either make his Victory worthy that name, or his defeat the more excusable by their resistance. Spartacus extremely pleas'd with this promise, assur'd them, that he would in very few days summon them of their promise, and observe, if they would satisfy this last engagement, as punctu∣ally as they had their first, which if they did, he would confess in giving them their freedom, he had more oblig'd himself than them. These young Men being come to Salapia, so magnify'd my Prince unto Perolla, that he knew not whether the misfortune was greater, in having so much Virtue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Enemy, or the happiness in having so ample an occasion of glory. Two days were past in light skirmishes, whilst our preparations for an As∣sault were perfected: The third, an hour before 'twas light our Army ad∣vanc'd, and every Division having receiv'd their Orders, began a furious Storm, which was receiv'd with an equal Resolution: Six hours together the business was disputed, without any apparent advantage on either side, and every place fill'd with Horror and Blood, Death being given and re∣ceiv'd in a thousand several ways: at last Canitius, who had the Command of all the Germans in the Army, planted one of our Ensignes upon the Walls, but was so suddainly repulst, that before my Prince could have time to commend his courage, he had cause to pity the misfortune of it: Nine of our several Commanders had the same fate that day, aswell in their resolutions as misfortunes, and Spartacus perceiving, that they at last fought, rather by Duty than Inclination, sounded a Retreat, which was so readily obey'd, that the Enemy found, it rather proceeded from apprehension than discipline, and therefore fell so briskly in our Rear, that it had endanger'd all the Army, had not my Prince in Person with 500 of the resolutest Men, made head against them, and though he stopt the execution, and at last made them retire, yet it was so leasurely, and in such good order, that their Retreat appear'd rather their Election than their Necessity. Spartacus having doubl'd his Guards, and taken strict Order for the rendring ineffectual of all Sallies, return'd to his Tent more unsatisfy'd with the repulse, than with the loss, where all those Officers, whose wound permitted them, and who had that fatal day escap't Perolla's Sword, came to justify themselves, professing that they were not more troubl'd at their disgrace, than desirous the next morning to repair it, and manifest by their Victory, that the suspension of it proceeded from their want of Fortune, not of Courage, or by their death shew whose Soldiers they were; That their affront (by a joynt concurrence, of all

their observations) proceeded from Perolla, who was ubiquitary, and knew no certain Post, but where there was the certain'st danger, which he courted with an eagerness as great as his success. Many other expres∣sions they made, to vindicate the affront, and to shew how willing they were to repair it, which would be too tedious to relate, and to which my Prince reply'd, that he was as much satisfy'd with the sence they had of their misfortune, as troubled at the occasion of it, that according to their desires, the next morning he would again storm the Town, and help them to vindicate their Credits, or bear a share with them in their failer: and in pursuance of that resolution, commanded them back to their several charges, with Orders, as soon as the day dawn'd, that they should begin again the Storm, that the Enemy (if overcome) might acknowledge by the not altering the Assailants, nor the order of the Assault, that it was their Fortune onely had suspended their destructions, The Officers by many expressions having thank'd Spartacus, for so high a Compliment plac'd upon their Courages, were retiring, when there came in news, that Granicus, with most of those others which we thought had been kill'd by the Salapians, were coming to my Prince, who extreamly surpriz'd at the accident, sent for them in; Granicus therefore, (with Six∣score of his companions) immediately presented himself, and told him: after the Assault, Sir, was ended, Perolla commanded all the Prisoners to be brought unto him, and having learn'd, that I was of the most conside∣rable quality amongst them, addrest himself unto me, and spoke to this effect. That liberty which both you and your companions have lost, by my fortune, I here again restore you, and for your Ransome, I shall one∣ly desire you to tell the generous Spartacus, I am exceedingly trou∣bled that he has so much cause to look upon this action, as an expres∣sion of Gratitude, and not of that Affection his Gallantry has created me; and though his usage to the Salapians he sent me, expects this as a just retribution, yet the high opinion I have of his Vertue, was no way an inferior motive: tell him besides, that those, whose wounds will not per∣mit them to go off with you, shall receive an entertainment which shall speak the opinion I have of their General, that their healths and Liberties shall be the same thing, and that I almost think it a misfortune to defend my Countrey, since by it I am necessitated to be his Enemy. This high Generosity had so powerful an influence on my Prince, that had not his Honor been so deeply engag'd, he had rais'd the Siege, and would have thought it more Glorious to decline fighting against so gal∣lant and civil an Enemy, than to have conquer'd him; but that Ty∣rant which binds us to follow other Mens opinions more than our own, forc't him to continue his former designe of storming Salapia next morn∣ing, and I dare truly affirm, the desire he had of taking so considerable a place, was more prevalent with him, out of an expectation, that there∣by he might evince himself worthy Perolla's friendship, and find an oc∣casion to oblige him, than any other consideration whatsoever; which lest the fury of his Soldiers might prevent, he assur'd those that could save the generous Perolla's life, should have a more considerable reward than his Ransome. The day no sooner appear'd, but Castus began the Assault on the East side of the City, and Canitius with his Germans on the West, where Spartacus himself was, who perceiving many of his Men kill'd, and the rest extreamly shaken, to avoid the precedent days fate, took up his own Colours, and cryed out; Those that love their Honour, or their General, let them follow me, then marching a round

pace thorough Canitius's Men that were flying, he came against a cloud of Arrows to the foot of the Wall, where erecting some Scaling-Ladders, he resolutely and successfully climb'd up, and after a bloudy dispute, beat off the Defendants, and planted that Colours he had in his hand upon the Rampire; I had the honour to be the nearest to him in this action, where he did so many noble exploits, that Fortune must have been as unjust, as they say she is unconstant, had she refus'd him this Victory. No sooner had our Army perceiv'd how easy a passage my Prince had made, than above 6000 of them enter'd by that way, and without shedding any more Bloud, rendred themselves absolute Masters of the City; but whilst Spartacus was taking order to preserve the Sa∣lapians, as much as in such an occasion was possible, and that he had dis∣pers'd many of his Officers, and I with them to do the like, as I was go∣ing through one of the fairest streets, I saw a great confluence of Soldi∣ers about a House, whose Structure sufficently spoke the magnificence of the owner, and being come thither, I inquir'd what was the cause of it, one of the Officers soon inform'd me, that a company of young Gen∣tlemen onely, considerable for their resolutions, had made so generous a defence, and so slighted all Quarter, that they were necessitated to make use of numbers to suppress them, and that now at last they had kill'd all the Defendants but one, who having gain'd a narrow Stair-case, was yet making of it good, with so much courage, that he deplor'd the destroying, as much as the effects of it, and that he understood this generous man's name was Perolla. You may easily imagine the hearing of that name, gave me an unexpressible desire to save the Master of it, and having conjur'd the Officer to run and acquaint Spartacus with it, I thrust my self into the croud, and by many actions which shew'd my con∣cernment and haste, commanded them in Spartacus's name, to forbear any further attempt against so generous an Enemy. This Order found a ready obedience, as well out of the knowledge they had of the affecti∣on my dear Master honor'd me with, as out of a desire to preserve Pe∣rolla, who they now fought against, rather to shew that an Army might kill him, than out of any design, they had to doe so. At last by the help of our Officers I came to the place where the gallant Perolla stood, who appear'd to me to be less weary with conquering than our Soldiers were with assaulting him, and spight of that Bloud which endeavour'd to dis∣figure his Face, I perceiv'd a Countenance so Spiritual and so Lovely to∣gether, that I knew not which most to admire, but my wonder was quick∣ly rais'd to a higher pitch by the sight of a Lady, who possest the seve∣ral Beauties of shape, stature, complexion, and features, in so inaccessi∣onal a degree, that an affection for her could not so properly be called Passion, as Reason. The contemplation of so many perfections had almost made me forget the design I was come for, which fault I soon repair'd, by addressing my self to the generous Perolla, and telling him. The great Spartacus (Sir) who cherishes Virtue whereever it is plac'd, has sent me hither to preserve so great a possessor of it as you are, for he believes your Gallantry is a stronger obligation on him to serve you, than your imploying of it against him, is to make him your Enemy. Since (reply'd Perolla) that is your Generals Principle, the fair Izadora here is a wor∣thy object to employ that generosity on, which I believe you cannot doubt, when I assure you, that her exterior parts are as far short of the Beauties of her Mind, as the Passion I pay her is unworthy the Object: for her sake I can beg, though not for my own, and will acknowledge you

civility as great as your courages, if you will promise me she shall re∣ceive an usage as proportionate to her merit, as you can possibly pay her: this engagement will be more obliging farr than my own safety, and make that death which my sad fate now renders necessary, as full of happiness as such a deprivation is capable of. As I was about to answer him, I was hindered by a great noise, which turning about to discover the cause of, I perceiv'd it was my Prince, who with incredible haste was breaking through the Croud, and came time enough to see the perfect Izadora fling her self at her Lovers feet, and tell him, Alas Perolla! can you talk of hap∣piness in death, and yet think of leaving me behind you? did you ever find any felicity in separation, that you beg it even of your very Ene∣mies? or have you so low an opinion of my passion, as to think I can survive you? Ah Madam (said Perolla, interrupting, and putting him∣self in her posture) if you will lessen my trouble, give me rather marks of your disdain, than of your love? since the vastness of that score now creates my sufferings, which are so great, they cannot be increast but by new additions of your favour: Judge then, if it be not time to dye, when my highest blessing, that of your Affection, proves my torment. Then (reply'd Izadora) my condition will as much require death as yours, for 'tis as impossible for me not to augment your sufferings whilst I live, as 'tis to survive you, which since my sorrow will not permit, let my Love anticipate the effects of it: this will be more proportionate to my vows, and cut off the tortures of a lingring life, so Death, the enemy to other passions, may prove the friend of ours, and conferr that union on us in the other life, which our Fates and cruel Parents have deny'd us in this. Izadora (said Perolla) flatter not my hopes with an union in the other World, the gods which held me unworthy of you here, will have much more cause to continue that belief, when instead of your mortality, they shall cloath you with the reward of Virtue; alas, then you will be fitter for their adoration than mine. Can there be (she reply'd) a felicity in the other World for Izadora, if she be divided from Perolla? do not by such suggestions fright me into a hatred of Elizium, which, if what you say be true, will lose its quality, and fancy not the gods unjust, onely to make us miserable: no Perolla, we have walkt too exactly in the paths of Virtue, to fear Death, and as an argument of this truth, that minute which separates your Soul from the fair Mansion it now inhabits, shall give mine freedom, for to dye, is a Blessing or a Curse, if the first, I will not be deny'd it too, if the latter, I hope 'twill hinder your despair, when you know I will involve my self in it. This noble dispute had con∣tinu'd longer, had I not told Perolla, that Spartacus was come, who in∣deed was so ravished with the Virtue of these Lovers, that his admira∣tion made many who knew him not, suspect that his suspense proceed∣ed from his being as absolutely vanquisht by the Eies of one of his Ene∣mies, as his Sword had been victorious over all the rest; But Parth••nissa was too deeply fixt to be defac'd, and her Beauty had got so absolu••e an Empire over Artabanes Heart, that since her inconstancy could not destroy it, nothing else could have that power. But the Lookers on, who took his Affection to Vertue, to be a Passion of another quality, were not long in that error, for Izadora, who perceiv'd Perolla's great Heart could not make any desires to my Prince, esteem'd it an action fitter for her Sex to undertake, and addressing her self to him, put him out of those raptures their gallantry onely had created, by saying, Generous Spartacus did not that Title assure me you will receive a greater contentment in giving

Perolla his Life, than he can resent by receiving it, and that I furnish you with an occasion to oblige your self more than him, I should now have been silent, and joyfully participate in his Fate, rather than be indebted for his preservation to a less noble Enemy: but your Gallantry is such, that the cause of his being conquer'd, takes away all resentment from the Effect. Izadora had continu'd speaking, but that her gallant Lover interrupted her, crying out, Oh Madam! Can you think Perolla will live after he has been so unworthy and miserable, as to obtain your safety by his Prayers, whilst he had a Sword to purchase it? add not so much to my misfortunes, as to make your Affection the cause of all those Torments I must hereafter suffer, should I now live; no Izadora, my death shall shew, that nothing but the desire of your safety could have induc'd me so long to survive my Honor. Finishing those words, he had flung him∣self upon the point of his Sword had not my Prince (guessing at what he meant) ran to him, and though it were time enough to hinder his fa∣tal determination, yet it could not prevent a slight wound which ma∣nifested his sad intention. Izadora, on the other side, thinking Perolla had been his own Executioner, resolv'd to bear him company, and with a courage which disdain'd exclaiming against Fate, drew out a Ponyard which she had conceal'd for some such desperate exigency, and cry'd out, this stroke Perolla shall prove more kind than you, and give us that union you would so cruelly deprive me of: then lifting that fatal weapon, she had (doubtless) perform'd what she spoke, but that by thrusting away her Hand, I made that wound light upon her Arm, which she intended for her Heart, but having mist her aim, she was going to double her stroke, had not I forced the Ponyard from her. Whilst I was thus imploy'd Spartacus obtain'd an easy conquest over Perolla, who no sooner heard his fair Mistress cruel determination, than the bare sound of her death, banish'd all thoughts of his own, and having perceiv'd the service I had render'd him, he flung himself at her feet, and told her, I will live, Ma∣dam, since this wretched life is so dear unto you, and on that score I shall cherish it, as much as I should detest it upon any other: Judge Iza∣dora then, how precious your life is to me, since to continue it, I can be content to live in infamy. Live, generous Perolla (said my Prince) and since the belief of your being vanquisht is the cause of your despair, banish that groundless doubt, for you are so far from that condition, that you are the Conqueror, your Vertue has made you invincible, nor was it fit the fair Izadora should derive her safety from a less noble cause; I renounce all right to her preservation, and the wonders which your Sword has hitherto acted, shall be increast by this addition of remaining victorious in a Triumphant Army. Ah Sir, (reply'd Perolla) whilst you endeavour to make me a Conqueror, you are doubly so, your civility acts now what your courage did before, both which are so unresistable, that when I consider who you are, I shall excuse my self in my misfor∣tune, and since you attribute miracles to my Sword, I will make it per∣form one, which is to yield it self up. Perolla had satisfy'd this ceremo∣ny, had not Spartacus so absolutely declin'd it, that all those which were present easily perceiv'd, his denial proceeded as much from his justice, as his civility. Whilst these two great Persons were by a thousand embraces confirming that friendship which they vow'd to each other, Perolla un∣fortunately espy'd some Bloud runing out of the fair Izadora's Arm: alas, how fatal was that object like to prove, his passion made him act many extravagancies, which nothing but Love could render legitimate: but

when he remember'd the cause of her wound, how soon was that new created harmony dissolv'd? and having again found, that all his attempts against his life were fruitless, he prostrated himself at his fair Mistresses feet, and told her: Must I then, Madam? must I the••see that precious Bloud shed for my sake, and at the same time be render'd uncapable of emptying all my veins to bear it company, and expiate my crime? must you spill your Bloud to preserve my life, whilst I make use onely of Pray∣ers to preserve yours? Ah Izadora! be merciful, and permit me by one stroke, to end the miseries which these thoughts will still create. Alas (said Izadora) has your rage so much blinded your Judgement, as to think, that what is the cause of this slight hurt: if continu'd, will prove its reparation; rise, rise Perolla, and believe me, if these few drops have either manifested my Passion, or sav'd your Life; they are too gloriously spilt to be deplor'd, and if they create any resentments in you, they should be of a contrary nature to those which now appear. I must confess (con∣tinued Simander) that my memory does not contain all the particular passages of so rare an entertainment, and therefore I will not so much wrong such virtuous persons, as to cloath their conceptions and expres∣sions in any other language than their own; I will therefore in expecta∣tion of your pardon for so high an omission, continue my discourse, by acquainting you, that after a friendship was contracted, which was as perfect as the friends themselves were, that Perolla's despair was abso∣lutely conquer'd, and that his, and his Izadora's wounds were drest, my Prince invited them to his Quarters, out of that Massacre and deluge of Bloud, which his new friend had made, and though his many wounds render'd the least motion, both dangerous and painful, yet he thought the greatest torments would be in his separation from the fair Izadora, and therefore having made his pain appear the less, to make his happi∣ness really the greater, he assur'd my Prince, that without any inconve∣niency, he would wait upon her and him to those Lodgings he had as∣sign'd her, whither as they were going, they might perceive some barba∣rous Soldiers driving before them two Gentlemen, whose Age and Coun∣tenance merited a different usage (though their past actions did not) and I dare avow, though their sufferings were great, and that the manner in which they were inflicted, was as sensible as the pain; yet they did bear them with much joy, for each of them by the knowledge of his own usage, guessing at that of his Enemies, found his satisfaction in his very tor∣ments. But they were no sooner perceiv'd by Izadora and Perolla, than both of them with many Tears, and passionate actions, begged my Prince that their Irons might be taken off, which was no sooner motion'd than granted, though those which kept them, alledged, that they were the Men which had spilt most of their companions bloud at the assault: then my dear Master desir'd Perolla to acquaint him what high relation could produce such rare demonstrations of affection, as he expret at their captivity? to which he reply'd, Sir, I must acknowledge that Gentleman (shewing Blacius) to be the fair Izadora's Father, and the other, (shew∣ing Pacuvius) to be mine, though truly they have retain'd nothing, but the name and the power of Parents, they are those which we have reason to hate, and yet cannot; and though they have stifl'd all the dictates of nature, and oppos'd the purest flame that ever burned; yet we pre∣serve out Duties to them so entire, that we resent any affliction which be∣falls them, with a grief proportionable to their joy, if the self-same ac∣cidents had arriv'd to us. Spartacus being inform'd of their qualities, sa∣luted

them with much respect; but he perceiv'd, assoon as they had learn'd to whose intercession they owed that favour, that the means of their de∣liverance supprest the contentment of it. This action made him extream∣ly admire, what strange causes they were, which could have so unusual an operation, and having found at last, that each of them rely'd upon the justice of his cause, he desir'd to hear their difference, to which the Fathers willingly consented, as being confident in their right, and ha∣ving heard a true character of my Prince's Justice, as on the other side, Izadora and Perolla willingly submitted to it on the same grounds. The next morning then being appointed for this Audience, my Prince having conducted our virtuous Lovers to his own Quarters, which when he had surrender'd them, and there (as a mark of his confidence and friend∣ship) acquainted Perolla with the word, he withdrew himself to settle and secure his new Conquest, leaving them in as high an admiration of his Gallantry, as he had conceived of theirs. The next day was not many hours old, but he was inform'd by the messenger he had sent to complement the generous Lovers, That they expected with much impa∣tiency, the Judge of their Felicity or Misery: to satisfie their longing, he waited immediately on them, bringing with him their Fathers, where finding by the Chirurgeons, that so long a disourse as their fortunes must amount unto, might prejudice Perolla's health, they prevail'd with Izadora to undertake the Relation, which a general silence inviting her to perform, she began it in these words.

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIRST PART.

BOOK IV.

The Story of Izadora and Perolla.

I Must Sir, as a friend to Truth as well as to our Fathers inform you, That their hatred is not a purchas'd but an hereditary one, and bears so antient a date, that the original cause of it as absolutely forgotten as the sad effects it has produc'd are recent, that what was but passion or resentment in the beginners of this fatal dif∣ference, has turn'd to nature in their Children, that our Parents have inherited their predecessors Malice as well as their Estates, and as if fortune had hitherto affoded instruments to nourish this sad dif∣ference, in seven descents successively our Ancestors have always left heirs male to perpetuate this quarrel, whereby many of our Families have sacri∣fic'd their lives to the blind rage of the authors of them: but at last the gods having given Pacuvius no other heir than the generous Perolla, and Blacius than the unfortunate Izadora, all those which were concern'd in these do∣mestick differences, began to make it their hopes as well as 'twas their prayers, that by an union of us two, this antient animosity might be ex∣tinguisht; but alas, the higher Powers it seems had otherwise decreed, for Blacius more troubl'd that he wanted a Son to inherit his hatred than his estate, imagin'd (since my Sex exempted me from those violent re∣sentments which he held so necessary to his blood) he ought to collect in himself all the resentments of those which should have succeeded him, and act some design suitable to his hatred and despair, that the effects of it might be always recent enough in Perolla's Family, to supply the expiration of his own (Pardon me Sir, said Izadora, addressing herself to her Father, if I speak those words which you have your self so often reiterated.) And on the other side Pacuvius seeing but one man of his Enemies alive, re••olv'd to be reveng'd on him in such away, that the manner of his death should be as deplorable to his friends as the very extinction of his Family. (I must beg your pardon to Sir, said Izadora, addressing herself to Pacuvius) be∣cause you are the Father of my Perolla, though what I say your profes∣sions as well as actions have endeavoured abundantly to justifie. These Sir (continu'd Izadora, speaking to Spartacus) were the reasons and resolu∣tions of our Parents when Perolla and I were in an age as innocent as that we now are in is miserable; and as a further evincement of their hatred, I have been often told, that Blacius was angry with nature for having given me this little Beauty, least it might tempt Perolla, and Pacuvius was the like

at the inevitable charms of his virtuous son, lest they should raise in me a Passion which might create that union they so abundantly fear'd; therefore what education they thought fit to give us was in private, in which if we made any progress, Pacuvius and Blacius thought it as great an injury to have it publish'd as other Parents would to have had it conceal'd. Judge (Sir) on the other side, if ever there could be a higher hatred than that which subverted the dictates of Blood and Nature, (and on the other) if there could be a greater affection than what conveted anti∣pathy into sympathy. I must (before I proceed any further) acquaint you, That though Salapia and Capua be near thirty miles distant, yet Pacuvius has a vast Estate there as well as here, and as if all things had contributed to nourish the distraction of our Families, Blacius has the like there too, lest (as I believe) by being separated, their rage might want that flame which the sight of each did inspire. To hinder me there∣fore from the knowledge of Perolla's increasing excellencies, Pacuvius sent him to Capuas, and remov'd thither himself shortly after; where whilst his gallant Son was making a large proficiency in all those reali∣ties and ornaments which have since made him the greatest glory of our Times; Hanniball, that victorius Captain, who had made Spain his first Conquest for the Carthaginians, undertook Italy should be the next, and ha∣ving past such dangers, which to believe, is almost as hard as to have overcome them, and suffer'd miseries to invade the Romans, which no Nation else would have undergone, but to have avoided them; he at last scal'd the Walls of Italy (the Alpes) which indeed was a very strange thing, most men believing it a task as difficult to enter this Coun∣trey that way, as to subdue it when gotten in, and having with Fire and Sword made wayes where natures self had deny'd them, in four set Battles at Ticinum, Trebia Thasimene, and Cannae, vanquish'd the Consuls Puicus Cornelius Scipio, Sempronius Longus, Caius Flaminius, Terentius Varro, and Paulus Aemilius, whose defeat invited the Attelanian, the Calatinians, the Samnites, the Brutians, the Lucanians, and divers other people of Italy, to submit to that yoke they esteem'd it impossible to re∣sist; and had the great Captain follow'd Maherball's (the General of his Horse) advice, and marched directly to Rome, he had without all dis∣pute possest himself of that triumphant City, which since has given Laws to those that might have impos'd theirs on her, but having mist his opportunity, and thereby the Romans having chang'd their fears in∣to nobler Passions, he apply'd himself wholly to the Conquest of Ca∣pua (the second Rome) where Pacuvius's hatred to Blacius soon furnish'd Hanniball with an opportunity proportionable to his desires: For my Father has been always so inviolable a friend to the Romans, that he almost rejoyc'd at heir defeats, since they furnish'd him with an occa∣sion to j••stifie he was ty'd to them, not to their posterity; and though Pacuvius were very much their friend, yet he was much more his Re∣venges, which Passion was so predominant, that it made him act things both his reason and interest condemn'd, and which no other considera∣tion could have seduc'd him to. To confirm this truth, when he found that Blacius was unalterable to this Empire, and that their probable ruine did rather confirm than shake him, he resolv'd under an appear∣ance of securing himself and Capua to ruine my Father, to which acti∣on he was the apter to incline by Hanniball's Letters, which assur'd him, if by his power Capua were deliver'd into his, the Citizens should find no alteration but the difference of their Protectors, which small

change should be recompenc'd sufficiently with many Immunities the Rom••ns had deny'd them; and that for his own particular, he would make him no positive offers, since that were to confine to certain Articles the recompence of his merit, and put limits to those rewards which he re∣solv'd should have none. I must do Pacuvius that right as to profess I believe, though these glittering promises advanc'd the putting his design in execution, yet his revenge was the onely cause of it, which made him de∣termine rather to ruine his Countrey and Enemy together, than preserve both. Alas, What miserable events has that blind fury produc'd? and, How has it darken'd those many other virtues which would else so clearly shine in our Fathers? The fair Izadora could not speak these words without shed∣ding some Tears, which did not onely abundantly manifest the goodness of her disposition, but as much prov'd that grief it self when it dwelt in her face could not but relish of the place in which it resided: but this disorder being vanquish'd, she thus continu'd. Pacuvius had no sooner recev'd Hanniball's Letters than he assembl'd the chiefest of Ca∣pua (where Blacius then was) and by too great an Eloquence for so ill a subject, so represented the forlorn condition of the Romans, the triumphant one of the Carthaginians, the advantages of accepting the Conquerors offers, and the miseries of declining them; that at last the Capuans fears and Hanniballs Armies advancing to besiege them, hel∣ping his destructive Oratory, all the Citizens resolv'd to buy their safe∣ty by the loss of their Faiths, and present their new Master with their Keyes and Liberty: and though Blacius by a world of arguments en∣deavour'd to divert so fatal a determination, yet all the advantage he de∣riv'd from it was, to manifest his affection to the Romans, and to make it evident, that the Capuans submitting to the Carthagineans was an acti∣on as opposite to reason as honesty. Magius also, my Fathers Brother (betwixt whom there was always as great a difference in humours as near∣ness in blood) in this design join'd with Blacius, but to no effect, the Capu∣ans having shut their ears to all motions but those of becoming slaves to Hanniball; who, being informed by Pacuvius, that Capua was at his devo∣tion, made into it a triumphant Entry, many thousands of people re∣sorting thither, to behold that Man in whom such virtue dwelt, and upon whom fortune so constantly attended, that whilst his courage was subduing his Enemies in one place, his Fame effected the like in an∣other. But whilst these solemnities were performing, Blacius with∣drew himself into this city; more out of apprehention that his death would be pleasing to Pacuvius than to decline sacrificing himself for the Roman Empire: But Magius continu'd still at Capua, and his Counsels being told to Hanniball by Perolla's Father, so exasperated him, that as a testimony of his fury and power he demanded Magius of the Senate, whose fear clouding their justice, deliver'd him up, and who immediately he caus'd to be executed in the Market-place. For this Death Hanniball's cruelty was not so much condemn'd as Pacuvius'S, whose hatred to our blood was so exorbitant, that though Magius did ever oppose Blacius, and was always oppos'd by him, yet the being my Fathers Enemy was so prevalent with Pacuvius to save him, as being his Brother was to condemn him: Thus by this sad tragedy the Capuans found sufficient cause to repent, though not to repair their inconstancy. But now (Sir) I shall tell you a passage which perhaps will be as much admir'd for the gallantry as the rare∣ness of it: Hanniball who indeed had contracted a real friendship with

Pacuvi••s, either as esteeming his interest in the Capuans necessary to confirm and augment his Conquests, or his virtues worthy that honor, or both; but as a mark of his esteem and trust, he lodg'd in his house without the ordinary guards which attended his person: In the mean time Perolla, who always had a high inclination to the people of Rome, and consequently detested his Fathers actions; began to project the death of Hanniball, in which nothing made him irresolute but the vio∣lating of the Laws of hospitality, and since the consequence was of so generous a design; it will not be amiss to acquaint you with some of his reasonings, before he elected it. What (said he to himself) shall I kill the upholder and revenger of our blood? Shall his friendship to my Father be the cause of his ruine? and, Shall he receive his death from those with whom he trusts his life? Shall I, to revenge the Romans, stain my own reputation with a Murther, and ruine my own Family? Who can∣not 'scape being sacrific'd to the Carthagineans fury? Shall Rome owe her safety to a cause which if she approv'd, rendr'd her unworthy of it? Shalt thou kill a Conqueror, whom the gods have freed from their own imme∣diate punishment (Thunder) by covering him with Laurel? Shalt thou make away an Enemy. who in thus giving thee the power to destroy him, makes it a crime to do it? besides he is one who owes his Conquests onely to his Courage and Conduct; and if the Roman Empire be van∣quisht with those Arms, she deserves that Fate, which to oppose, were to contradict the justice of the gods, and virtue it self: Ah no Perolla, leave off the thoughts of such a design, than which nothing can be a greater Crime but the performing it. He had certainly gone away, alter'd, though ••ot pleas'd with these reasons, had not his good Genius inspir'd him with what you shall now hear. 'Tis true, said he, Hanniball is the upholder and revenger of our Family, and therefore the performance will be more glo∣rious: What greater obligation can I put upon the Romans than to ruine our Family, to maintain their Empire? Had Magius been as much a friend as he was an enemy to our blood, design might wear the name of revenge, and an action of publick concernment might be stil'd the effect of a particular hatred, so that all his favours should rather invite than dis∣suade the attempt, which these circumstances will prove rather an impartial justice than ingratitude. But remember Perolla, how thy Countrymen branded with infamy Perpenna for having murther'd Sertorius, though an enemy to the Commonwealth, how much more will they detest thee for de∣stroying one whose too much virtue and success are his only crimes. But then (he continu'd) Why may not I suppose they did but counterfeit, since States have the same arts as particular persons, and it had been an unwise justice to commend that which they could not sufficiently reward: This part of Perpenna's fate I hope will attend my attempt, which is one invi∣taion more, for to perform what any but the gods can reward is to sell gallantry, besides my case will be nobler than his, for I cannot doubt the higher Powers so much as to deny him the freedom of his Sword to defend his life, that if he fall, he may owe it to my courage not my treacchery, and then i'll expose my self unto his Army, since to fly were to shun Martyr∣dom, and to out-live the fact, would shew as if I desir'd to enjoy that secu∣ty, I purchase onely for my Countrey. These and many other arguments so fully confirm'd Perolla, that he onely attended an opportunity to put his resolution in practice, and though his green age (being then but 18 years old) might have made his change from this determination ap∣pear rather a thing incident to youth than a want of Valor, yet he so

much ador'd virtue, that he could not be unconstant to whatsoever bore her Character. After he had with incredible impatience expected an oc∣casion, Fortune seem'd one night to furnish him with one, for having learn'd that Hanniball had withdrawn himself into his Chamber for a few hours, to make a dispatch to his friends at Carthage, and that all his fol∣lowers were upon the like employment to theirs; Perolla (who had al∣ways free access unto him) was going to execute his design, but it seems the Fates would not let him by one generous action hinder himself from performing many; for Pacuvius, who had some intelligence then brought him, of a design the Capuans had to revenge Magius's death, and to recover the freedom which that execution sufficiently shew'd they had lost, was then coming to acquaint Hanniball with it, and in such a conjuncture of time, that the Father and the generous Son met each other at his Chamber door; where Pacuvius seeing Perolla arm'd, was struck with so great an astonishment, that nothing could increase it but the knowledge of the cause, which Perolla acquainted him with, in such ravishing terms, that his reason though not his inclination was converted; and finding the happy operation which his arguments produc'd, he began to conjure his Father, by all those motives he esteem'd most prevalent, that he would by some high performance regain the Romans good opinion, which it seem'd the gods invited him to perform by offering him so favourable an opportunity to kill Hanniball; for (said he) the action is good or ill, if the first, it has invitation enough in it self; if the latter, the people of Rome cannot doubt your conversion, since to assure them of it, you perform what is as contrary to your nature and practice, as your former Crime in delivering up Capua was repugnant to their interest. I wi•••• not (said Izadora) trouble your patience by telling how Perolla offer'd to relinquish to his Father the glory of the attempt; nor all those other things which you may imagine so rare a subject could furnish a judge∣ment with that was so, since this design by a seeming delay receiv'd an absolute suppression; for Pacuvius, who found that his generous sons reasons and resolutions were not to be vanquish'd, counterfeiting to be so himself, and promis'd him as soon as that great Conqueror was out of his protection, he would join in the enterprize; in the mean while he begg'd Perolla with tears and sighs to delay the execution of his at∣tempt, and not to violate the Laws of hospitaly, which would be as great an offence unto the gods, as the performing it might be an obliga∣tion to the Romans. These, and many such pressing motives vanquish'd my dear friend, especially since the design was not supprest but suspen∣ded, and that a small deferring would take away the seeming aspersion of breach of Trust, and so involve his Father in the execution, that he might thereby efface his former injuries to the Romans. But Perolla was no sooner retir'd, than Pacuvius went in to Hanniball, and inform'd him, that the Capuans were so highly incenst at the death of Magius, that he be∣fought his permission to leave him his whole house, and that he would fill it with his Guards, lest the World might lose its greatest glory, and he his best friend. At last Hanniball consented to Pacuvius's request, who the next morning remov'd, and whose house was immediately so throng'd with Soldiers, that the impossibility of attempting against that famous Captains life was as great as the destroying it had been pleasing to Perolla, who finding how much his Father had abus'd him, resolv'd in himself to go to the Romans, and by the gallantry of his Actions manifest, that 'twas Pacuvius, and not Pacuvius's blood which was an ene∣my

to their Empire, with this further hope, that his fortune in the ma∣ny accidents of War might furnish him with an opportunity to assault and destroy that Life in the fight of both Armies, which had been hither∣to preserved by his Fathers Tears and Dissimulation. And the Fates, who have been as much his friends in actions of Glory, as his Enemies in those of Love, knowing what he was destin'd to perform, was too great to delay any time, caus'd Pacuvius (who still apprehended the discovery of his fiction, and the sad events it would inevitably produce) to com∣mand his generous Son, to go into this Town, which then had been freshly yielded to Hannibal by Pacuvius power, there to countenance his friends; which injunction you may well conjecture was as pleasing to Perolla, as his removal from Capua was to his Father. This journey thus resolv'd, Pacuvius furnisht his Son with a Train fit for one of the Bloud of Diomedes the Argian, who founded the City of Agrippa in the Bruti∣ans, from whom he was lineally descended. After he left Capua, he lay in a Town call'd Pettely, and the morning following, was waken'd with an Alarm, that the considerabl'st part of Hannibal's Army, under Himil∣co's Command, had surrounded the Town, which had struck so great a terror in the Pettelines, that they had deputed some of the Inhabitants, to Treat on conditions for a surrender: the timerousness of those peo∣ple did not so much perplex him, as he was pleas'd at so large an occa∣sion of Glory, he could not fancy that the design of yielding, proceed∣ed from fear, but want of a Chief, which might employ their courages to the best advantage, and though his green Youth had till then exempted him from the harass and noise of Arms, yet his Genius had ever so great a propensity to War, that he then understood as much of the Theory, as since he has of the Practique, and thought too, that his Courage and Aversion to Hannibal, would supply the defect of his unexperience. Whist he was hastily putting on his Cloaths, he entertain'd himself with such thoughts, and was hardly ready when he went towards the Gate, through which, he was told, the Deputies of the City were to pass: where he was no sooner come, than he perceiv'd them, accompany'd by many of their friends. That sight (as he often told me) inspir'd him with so high a fury, that he commanded all those of his Retinue (which were above twenty) to draw their Swords, and let none pass through that Port, without his express Orders, then advancing himself towards the crowd, which accompany'd their Commissioners, he cry'd out to them; Whither run you, O degenerate Pettelines? can you think that Slaves to the Car∣thegineaus is a more glorious Title, than Friends to the Romans? can you so much despair of the gods protection, as to act that your selves, than which their power cannot inflict a greater misery? is a wretched life so pleasing, that to purchase it, you will out-live the ruine of your Coun∣trey, and which is worse, make your fears hasten it? if Gallantry and Reason will not move you, let the example of Magius's Bloud do it, which was shed a Sacrifice to appease Hannibal, and since his rage must be quencht by such oblations, 'tis more noble to let our veins be emptied to defend our liberty, than to be a testimony of our having lost it, which is a fate we shall too justly merit, if we do not oppose it. Many other motives he laid open to them, with such a charming Eloquence and Acti∣on; that the Pettelines resolv'd to stop their Commissioners, and to own their sufferings to their Misfortunes, rather than their Fears. You will pardon me (Sir) said the fair Izadora, if I do but briefly pass over the affairs of this memorable Siege (though by it the Town become more fa∣mous

the Governor than the Founder, who was Philoctetes the Son of Pean, that kept the Arrows of Hercules, without which the Prophet Calchas, declar'd Troy not be taken) since my Sex dispences me from any knowledge in things of this nature, and because it serves but to acquaint you with that Gallantry of which already you have (with all the World) so just an opinion, I will therefore with your permission onely tell you, that after Himilco had receiv'd an absolute denial of Pettely from Perolla, a thousand affronts by bloody Sallies, and that he had continu'd four Months of a difficult Siege: he at last, plainly sent Han∣nibal word (then beleaguering of Cassilinum) that unless he, and all his Army came to his relief, the Pettelines were like to carry away too much Glory for those which were Enemies to Carthage. This message made him observe the desire of him that sent it, as much for the respect he paid so great a Soldier, as out of an opinion it would be no small accession to his Glory, if he could take a City which Himilco (by his own confession) esteem'd too difficult an enterprize for him alone. Hannibal therefore left Forces to block up Cassilinum, and came with the rest to Pettely, where having view'd the place, and the resolute countenance and posture of the Defendants (maugre his high Heart) he resolv'd before he came to ex∣treams, to practice mild ways, which if they took, would not onely free him from those just fears the gallantry of his Enemies had created, but augment his reputation by his presence, reducing that which a great Ar∣my, and a greater Coumander could not effect. In order to this resolve, he sent a Trumpet unto Pettely, who after the due ceremonies of War, was admitted, and deliver'd Perolla a summons, which contain'd these words.

HANNIBAL, General of the Carthagineans, to the valiant PEROLLA.

THe Friendship which I pay the Father, inclines me rather to pardon than destroy the Son; but his speedy submission must give the rise to ef∣fect it. You shall have honourable terms Perolla, to invite you from that ru∣ine, your resistance will cast upon you, and my Mercy shall give you better con∣ditions than your Sword can. Do not therefore by your obstinacy, force me to revenge that Blood you have already spilt, which I am willing to pardon up∣on the same score, that hath made me rather elect, to make use of my Pen, than of my victorious Arms.

This Letter, by the joint consent of all the Petelines, had this return.

PEROLLA, to the Great HANNIBAL, General of the Carthagineans.

PAcuvius were unworthy of so great a Conquerors Friendship, should any of his Bloud deliver up a place by Intreaty, which the Courage of the Defendants will render invincible: No, generous Hannibal, I set so high a rate on your esteem, that I will not derive it from another but my self; and

therefore will owe it to my Courage not Extraction. Thus much I acquaint you from my self; but now I am commanded to tell you from my companions, That Roman Hearts and Swords, are a better security, than any Affricans Mercy.

THis Answer for what concern'd Perolla, though it had much of ci∣vility, yet it had more of resolution; But Hannibal (the haugh∣tiest of Men) was so accustom'd to conquer, that he esteem'd a refusal as bad as a defeat, and being inspir'd with a high rage at this denial, he gave so furious an asslault to Pettely, that almost all courages, but that of Perolla's, might without shame have yielded to it, but his in that defence did things so far transcending belief, that to raise your faith to credit them, I must lessen their greatness, and injure his valour, least you might be∣lieve, I do the like to Truth: In a word, never more Lybia•• Bloud in this Empire was so unsuccessfully spent, as there, and never Glory was more nobly purchas'd, than in that fatal day (to the Cartheginians) who lost, besides the hope of Conquest, 2000 of their best Men, and twice as many by their wounds, were render'd unserviceable. Whilst these things were acting, the Pettelines had sent two of their chiefest Citizens to beg the Senates aid, whom they found, (as well by that they observ'd, as by their own Declaration) in a posture, fitter to desire than send relief. This proceeding of the Senate, as it was a great proof of their ingenuity, so it was of their necessity, and therefore forced these Deputies to fling themselves at their feet, and conjure them with all expressions of a real grief, to make them messengers of more comfort, or else permit them to sacrifice their lives in their sights, as being a more pleasing destiny, than to be testimonies of the ruine of their City, which so fatal an answer, would render unavoidable. This Gallantry was so prevalent with the Senate, that after (through a generous sympathy) they had paid them back their Tears, they commanded the Deputies to return to their Citi∣zens and tell them, that what they had done already, had been so obli∣ging, that nothing could increase the score, but to save themselves by a timely submission to the Conqueror, and thereby preserve those who had shew'd so great a proportion of constancy and courage, that they were more concern'd in their safeties, than in their own. The two Commis∣sioners at last, to obey their Masters, came home through a world of dan∣ger with that return; and truly this was a tenderness of the Romans, which they had manifested to none of their subjects, for in all other cases they chose rather to lose their Friends, than the reputation of their Arms, but in this they preferr'd the former before the latter. But this was so far from inducing them to yield, that by Perolla's perswasion they deter∣mined by a generous-resistance, or glorious ruine, to merit so high a Care, and that which made them the more intent on this, was, the Senates having acquainted them of their duty, which render'd their further actions, an obligation to the Roman Empire. But Hannibal, who by three bloody as∣saults, had learn'd, that Famine onely could make him Lord of Pettely, had given over all hopes of obtaining it by storm, and lay a while blocking of it up, with as much quiet, as his disgraces would permit, and at last weary'd with the tedioussness of the Siege, left Himilco to strave them out, and brought the best part of his Army, to renew the Siege of Cassi∣linum, where Manituis a gallant Roman, commanded. Himilco, to obey his Generals Orders, had in few weeks so straitn'd Pettely, that those in it did more justly fear their ruine from within than without, but by the

generous example of Perolla they suffer'd with as much patience, as they acted with resolution; and to say truth, I know not which was more me∣ritorious, their active or their passive parts. In this general Calamity there happen'd so rare an accident, that though I exceedingly long to run through these bloudy Relations, yet I cannot pass by this memorable Adventure, without being as unjust as the performers of it were gallant. The Famine in Pettely was so increas'd, that the place was inevitably to fall into the Enemies hands, were not the want of Victuals immediately redress'd; and though, (in the beginning of the Siege) they had sent away all their old People and Children, yet they retain'd so many Women, that the feeding of them must of necessity hasten their ruine. This in∣convenience was never mentioned by Perolla, who bare too high a respect to our Sex, to preserve those of his own, by exposing ours to the least hazard or suffering▪ But a certain Lady (whose Virtue, Beauty, Ex∣traction and Wealth, rendr'd her the most considerable amongst the Pette∣lines) plainly perceiv'd how great an inconveniency Perolla's civility was like to produce. Amazora therefore (for so she was called) having got∣ten a high and just value in that City, resolv'd to employ it to some end, which might make her self as famous to posterity, as her perfections me∣rited. To effect this, she assembl'd the chiefest Women of Pettely; to those which she thought Glory was more pleasing than Life, she acquainted with her resolution of stealing out of the Town, and exposing her self to the Swords of Hannibal's Soldiers, and thereby free the City from the misery of Famine, or at least from their hastening it. To others, which she believ'd, prefer'd their safety above all other considerations, she re∣presented the certain languishing death, they must unavoidably suffer by their residence in Pettely, and the probability of avoiding that Fate, by submitting to the Carthagineans, who could not be so merciless to a Sex which the unreasonable creatures even by the Law of nature, Reve∣rence, and Preserve. In a word, she so fitted her perswasions to the seve∣ral humours of those she courted, and at last so fully vanquish'd their fears, and confirm'd their resolution, that two nights after (having corrupted a Centinel, which was a menial Servant of hers, for there being no Garri∣son, the Inhabitants did the duty) and by his help (her House standing upon the Walls of the Town) about two thousand Women (with Ropes and Baskets) got out of Pettely. The next morning before day, a ser∣vant of Amazora's, brought this Letter to Perolla, who having open'd it, found it contain'd words to this purpose;

AMAZORA and the Women of Pettely, to the gallant PEROLLA, and his Valiant Companions.

WE had been ill Proficients, and unworthy your protection, had not the daily demonstrations of your Gallantryes created some in us, and though the too rigid Laws of our Sex, forbid us to employ our resolutions in an Active, yet it exempts us from a Passive Virtue. We are therefore gone to expose our selves to the Carthagineans Swords, and had rather they should be employ'd for our destructions, than be indebted for our lives, to those which are Enemies to your and our Liberties. If contrary to our hopes and desires they save us, we have eased you of a burthen your civilities did not mention,

and which consequently had had an unfitting return any way but this. But if we are sacrific'd to their fury, let your courages (if they are capable of any ac∣cession) be thereby so heightned, that whilst you celebrate our Deaths in Tears, you necessitate your Enemies to do the like in Bloud.

IT is not easy to imagine the high admiration which this Letter produc'd, and it is as difficult to describe the sorrow, which suddenly ensu'd, as the cruelty which was the cause of it, for as soon as the Sun had render'd visible all objects within the reach of sight, Perolla and his companions perceiv'd the Fields strewed with the dead Bodies of those gallant Wo∣men, which the barbarous Affricans had cruelly murther'd. Judge (ge∣nerous Spartacus) what a just fury this unequall'd impiety inspir'd Perolla, and the Pettelines with. But their actions will better acquaint you with their resentments, than my expressions can; For in that Sally (where they now were led on by Revenge, as well as Honor, they kill'd above 1500 Lybians, and the execution had been far bloudier, had not they spent the best part of their time in fetching off the Bodies of Amazora, and those of best quality, whose Names had no cause to wander, if the de∣struction of their murtherers could hinder it. Never victory had less joy in it, than this, and never Funeral was solemniz'd with more Tears, than that of those admirable Women: and indeed, the Besieged's grief appear'd so just, that their Reason rather continu'd than supprest them. But it is high time to lead you out of so forlorn an entertainment, which I will do, by acquainting you, that though Perolla now perswades me I possess his Heart intirely, yet he cannot deny, but that I have onely the reversion of it; neither would I pass by (though the truth of my story oblig'd me not to it) the vertues of my Rival, which indeed merit a particular Elogium, and were I capable of describing them as they deserve, I know none that would have declin'd her Fate, to have had her Glory. Her Fire was of so peculiar a quality, that when it had reduc'd her to ashes, those very Reliques retain'd heat enough to inflame him, and perhaps there has been seldom heard of a love so strange in the Birth, in the Life, and in Death. For it was created by an object that was dead, the Effect remain∣ed when the Cause was taken away, and having no material sustenance to preserve it self alive, it liv'd upon speculation, and to perfect the won∣der, 'twas Izadora destroy'd it. But I tell you too much of the end, be∣fore I acquaint you of the beginning, which fell out thus. Perolla returning from that famous Burial, one of those Men which had been ordered to take an Inventory of Amazora's Goods, and preserve them, presented him with a Letter he had found in her Closet, and because the Super∣scription was

TO THE Gallant PEROLLA.

He open'd it, and found it contain'd these words;

TIS not Amazora, but her death discovers she had a passion for you, had she lived, the impossibility of disclosing it, had been as great, as per∣haps the obtaining of a reciprocal one: Do not then condemn a confidence I wash away with my Bloud, nor slight an Affection which is as perfect as the Object that created it, neither am I onely a friend to your Passion but your

Glory, which I am resolv'd to raise upon my own ruine, and the ruine of all those of my Sex within this City: our deaths shall delay (if not hinder) yours, and give you time enough to act such additional generous things, that those which are acquainted with them, and with my flame shall excuse the latter by the knowledge of the former. If all this can procure your esteem, I shall think my destiny too noble to be deplor'd, and if for the life I loose, I may live in your memory, I shall esteem it a more happy being, than that which the gods have promis'd in the other world to those which have been virtuous in this.

HE had no sooner ended Reading, than he cry'd out, Yes, fair Amazora, I will preserve you still in my memory, and were it not to obey your Commands, the World should know, that your death is so far from delaying mine, that it has but hasten'd it. Then folding his Arms one with∣in another, he stood moveless as a Statue for a while, raining from his Eyes, whole showers of Tears; but after a world of confus'd thoughts had past through his fancy, he cry'd out again, Would it had pleas'd the gods (fair Amazora) to have made you as concern'd in my happiness, as in my glory: Cruel Honor! was there no expedient to build thy Tro∣phies, but by the ruine of my Felicity? must the way to reach my Glory ruine my contentment? Oh, too hard Fates: why did I not know my happiness whilst I possest it? and why am I acquainted with it when 'tis vanisht? was I to be blest onely to be curst? must the knowledge of more joy than I could expect, create more grief than I can endure? and must Amazora's passion for me be so order'd, that the revealing of it must prove my Torment? whilst Izadora was relating this sad reasoning, her gene∣rous Servant was so struck with sorrow, that she, who sympathiz'd with him in all virtuous Resentments, was constrain'd to break off her dis∣course, which the company perceiving, they did manifest by a general si∣lence from all things but sighs, how just an opinion they had of their grief, and how highly they approv'd the cause of it. A little time being so spent, and Izadora having wip'd away her Tears, thus continu'd her Story. I will not tell you all the melancholly expressions Perolla us'd, lest it might infect you with a grief I would willingly exempt you from, I shall there∣fore inform you only, that he contracted a Passion for her memory, as great as any other could have had for her Beauty, and that (whilst the Siege continu'd) twice a day he constantly water'd her Urne with such abun∣dant weepings, that had those Tears been inwardly imploy'd, they had doubtless extinguisht his Grief, his Flame, or his Life. At last, (gallant Spartacus) the Famine so increast in Pettely, that 'twas impossible any longer to maintain the place, and though Himilco offer'd him (and all those with him) conditions fit for Soldiers, yet he scorn'd to stand indebt∣ed for his life, to those which had taken away Amazora's, but rather e∣lected to force his passage with his Sword, or perish in the attempt: nei∣ther was this only his design, but that which he infus'd into all the rest. That day being then come, the Town was on all quarters set on fire, that the Carthagineans might neither use nor glory in their Conquest, and Pe∣rolla at the head of 3000 Pettelines (which were all that were left) furi∣ously charged the Affricans, and by dint of Sword, forced his passage, and to animate his Soldiers, he cry'd out, (nothing but) remember Amazora and her followers. And truly I am perswaded, all the Eloquence the gods ever bestow'd on Man, could not have been more powerful, than were those few words. 'Twas in that great action, Perolla did miracles, and I have been told, the slaughter was so bloudy, that all those gallant un∣fortunate

Women, had each of them one of their dead Murtherers for a cover of their Graves, the Fight happening in those very Fields where so horrid a Massacre had been committed. On Perolla's side there fell 800. which number I believe he might have lessen'd, had he stolen, and not made his retreat, but night coming, ended their dispute, and my gallant friend, having rallied the reliques of his Forces, propounded, and per∣swaded them to force their passage into Cassilinum, which was not above 200 Furlongs off, and which was besieged then by Hannibal. This re∣solve being taken, the next night, by unfrequented ways, they began their march, and the day following, towards the evening, beat up a Quar∣ter of the Carthagineans, and by the death of 700 Libyans, made a Tri∣umphant entry into the Town, presenting Manitius (the Governor and Friend to Perolla) both with a Relief and a Victory, which so rais'd his dejected Soldiers, that they brake off the Treaty of surrender they had almost concluded. 'Twas in this memorable Siege that Perolla did such glorious things, that (as little as I am concern'd in affairs of that nature) they reacht my Ears, and I must with guilty blushes acknowledge, that the hatred I had to his Bloud, made me look upon those actions with Envy, which I shold have consider'd with Admiration. But after six months Siege, the same fate which attended him at Pettely, follow'd him at Cassilinum, and though the Famine was extream pressing, yet the Ro∣mans, notwithstanding they were under the command of Marcellus (cal∣led for his Courage, the Sword of the Roman Empire, by the Dictators going to Rome to take new Auspices) yet he durst not hazard a battel for their preservation. The Inhabitants and Soldiers of the Garrison (for all Perolla scorn'd it) finding their sad condition, privately offer'd to sur∣render upon Quarter, which would not so much as be listn'd unto by Hannibal, for their abrupt breaking off their first Treaty, when the Re∣liques of Perolla's Forces reliev'd them. At last, though they receiv'd some Provisions which Marcellus in Barrels sent them floating down the River Vulturnus, yet that stratagem being too soon discover'd, they were con∣strain'd to feed upon Mice, Rats, and such Roots as they could dig out of their Counterscarfs and Meadows under their Walls, which being perceiv'd by the Carthagineans, he caus'd all those Fields to be plow'd up, but that was no sooner done, than Perolla and his Pettelines, by a Sally, sow∣ed Seed in their Enemies labour. Hannibal being told it, only spoke these few words. Must then that which I design to strave the Romans with, prove their Harvest? and immediately sent Manitius and Perolla Blanks, to write their Conditions in, which they (being as invincible in Civility as Courage) return'd, and immediately came out without ma∣king any: His usage indeed was generous, but he would not see Perolla, lest (as he said,) his Passion might force him to that violence, which his Reason detested. Hannibal thus became Master of Cassilinum, yet at his en∣try into it, he solemnly vowed, he was more troubl'd to have Perolla for his Enemy, than pleas'd with his Victory. As for the Garrison, they march'd directly to the Dictators Army, where Pacuvius's Son was receiv'd both by him (who was then return'd) and by Marcellus, with an entertain∣ment which relisht nothing of the hatred they paid his Father. The Se∣nate too to gratify him, order'd that all his Soldiers, during their lives, should have double pay, and though they needed such courages, yet they gave them five years vacation, and for his own particular, they order'd his Statue to be be erected in Preneste, which was the next considerable Town: but he with a Modesty, great as his Merit, refus'd it himself, and

had that Honour plac'd upon Manitius, thereby declining the re∣ward, increasing his Title to it. Perolla having by such memorable ex∣ploits, run through his Prentiship in Arms, was very desirous to wait up∣on his Father, who he was confident had buried his disobedience in those generous Actions which had proceeded from it. Pacuvius then liv'd in this City, (which was under the command of Hannibal) and because his Sons Actions had been as fatal to the Carthagineans as advantageous to the Romans, he resolv'd to perform that visit and duty with as much secrecy as was possible, therefore he came late alone into the Town, lest a Reti∣nue might give some suspition of his quality, and discover what he endea∣vour'd to conceal; but as he crost a Street that was not far from Blacius his House, he perceiv'd, (by the light of a couple of Torches which lay up∣on the ground, by the death of two had carried them) a Gentleman, who with much courage oppos'd himself against four that assaulted him, the inequality of the number, and the courage of the Defendant, made Pe∣rolla (who never valu'd his life in the protection of the oppressed) re∣solve to help him, that so highly needed it, and truly, had he never so little longer delay'd his assistance, he had been onely obliging in design, for by that time he was lighted from his Horse, and had drawn out his Sword, one of the four Assailants had gotten the single Gentleman under him, and was seeking out the defects of his Coat of Mail, to have taken away his life; But Perolla by a powerful stroke, cleft the wretches Head in two, and whilst his companions were amaz'd at so unexpected a relief, and so fatal a blow, Perolla gave my Father (for it was he indeed) leave to get up, and then presenting him with the Sword which he had lost by his fall, told him, Here (Sir) the gods will defend your quarrel, which I judge is good, because your enemies relye onely on the number for their success: Blacius had no time to make him any return of this civility, for the three Murtherers having resign'd their admiration to take up their first resolution, fell so vigorously upon my Father, and his generous Se∣cond, that had they not been under the protection of Divinity, they had certainly miscarried: But Perolla, who had to deal with two of the three, received some wounds, which yet were so far from endangering his life, that they did but hasten the loss of theirs which had bestow'd them on him; for with a furious thrust, he dispatched the most importunate of them, and (in a word) after he had once again saved and reliev'd Blacius, they made an end of the other too. As soon as my Father found himself freed from his enemies, he came to Perolla, and told him, Sir, that I am in∣debted to you for my life, is not a greater truth, than that I shall never make any scruple to lose it in your service, but lest my ignorance might (when occasion serves) render me uncapable of paying you that debt, I shall beg to be acquainted with your name, that by my future gratitude you may be convinc'd, the obligations you have laid upon one that was unknown to you, were not for all mis-plac'd, Perolla, though he knew not my Father, yet not daring to discover himself, reply'd. The service I have paid you, is so much the duty of one Gentleman to another, that it merits not an acknowledgement; and to assure you, this is not a Compli∣ment but a Truth, I am resolved to conceal my Name, least by acquaint∣ing you with it, you might imagine I expected some further return: then desiring to know if he had any other Commands to impose on him, he be∣gan to take his leave: but Blacius, who admir'd his Civility as much as Courage, could not satisfy himself with such an answer, and therefore told him, I must rather believe, that some secret business draws you hi∣ther,

and that not knowing who I am, you apprehend my privacy: if this be the true cause, I beseech you remove it, for you could not think me worthy your defence, if after having sav'd my life, you doubted I could disclose any thing which might be prejudicial to my Protector. Perolla was about to reply, when (alas) on a sudden, the fresh colour in his Cheeks, began to wear Deaths Livery, his knees too to tremble, and at last his Spirits failing, he fell (without speech or motion) at my Fa∣thers Feet, this sudden change made him suspect some private hurts were the cause of it, he therefore open'd his Doublet, and immediately disco∣ver'd a Sea of Bloud, which issued from a large wound that had pierc'd his Body through and through. My Father instantly, with what Linnen he could tear, stop'd the bleeding as much as he could, but having in vain attempted to bring him from the swound he was fallen into, was running to his own House, which (as I told you) was not far off, to call for help, but he was not many paces in the way to this Duty and Charity, when he heard one of the four Mutherers fetch a deep groan: The pas∣sionate desire he had to learn from whom he had so narrowly escap'd, made him pluck off the Vizard of him that was yet alive (for I forgot to tell you they were all disguis'd in Antick Cloaths and Faces) who no sooner receiv'd the benefit of the fresh Air, than he open'd his Eyes, and gave some small symptoms of life, which though they were false ones, yet he lived long enough to beg my Fathers pardon, and to acquaint him, that Pacuvius had ingag'd them by excessive rewards to undertake their crime. Blacius having receiv'd this information, went instantly to his own house, brought some Servants with him, and by their help, carried the generous Perolla home, whose wounds he caus'd the Chirurgions to dress, before he would take any care of a slight one he had receiv'd. In the mean time, the Alarm of my Fathers danger and return was brought to my Chamber, as I was undressing my self; which I no sooner heard, than I came running up, just as the Chirurgeons had by strong Cordials brought Perolla to himself. My Father when I came in, led me to his Bedside, and told me, if my life be any way considerable to you, you are indebted to this Gentleman for it, who by the hazard of his own, has preserv'd mine. Sir (I reply'd) I hope you have so just an opinion of my duty and affection, as to think that question needs no answer; but as for this Gentlemans Gallantry, I believe he will have no cause to repent it, if at least by the hazarding onely of one Life, he thinks himself suffici∣ently recompensed by acquiring those of a whole Family. I shall re∣nounce any of mine (said Blacius) that ever decline what you have spoken, and for your particular, (addressing himself to me) I command you to be as concern'd in him, as if I were in his condition, for I shall judge of your respect to me, by your care of my Friend. Then embra∣cing Perolla, he told him, some importunate affairs, Sir, draw me from you for a while, for which I must beg your Pardon, but till my re∣turn, I have injoyn'd my Daughter to supply my place. Madam, (said Perolla, interrupting the fair Izadora) I shall, with your permission, acquaint the generous Spartacus what happen'd, whil'st I continu'd in your Fathers House, which will not only ease you of some part of your Relation, but inform you of particulars, which, which perhaps your Modesty might injure you by silencing. Spartacus having made her the same request, and obtain'd her leave, Perolla thus continu'd. Your may (Sir) justly wonder, that to those high civilities of the perfect Izadora and her Father, she acquainted you with none of my returns,

and truly, if she had, she must have made them her self, for I was so ravisht with her Beauty, that all I then was capable of, was of admi∣ring it: for though she was not then in that advantagious dress which Rome so much commends, yet the habit she then had on, was order'd with such a pleasing negligence, that no Art was able to equal it, and if her Beauty had been of a nature which could admit of addition by Cloaths, those she then wore (one thought) would have increast hers. I must ingeniously confess, that coming from Death into so much brightness I fancy'd my self in those Plains, where our Learned Men make us believe we shall dwell after this Life; and I dare boldly af∣firm, if we believ'd so much real felicity there, as I then resented, that place would be better inhabited than it is. I shall beseech you, said Izadora, (interrupting him, and speaking to Spartacus) to remember the acknowledgement he makes of his judgement being troubl'd, that what unmerited raptures he delivers of me, you may attribute them to their true cause, and not to that unto which he ascribes them. Then ad∣dressing himself unto Perolla (with a little smile) she told him, If the use you make of my permission to tell part of our Adventures, be on∣ly thus to abuse your friend, I shall immediately recall it, and rather elect to injure our Story by my relation, than suffer those blushes which your partiality will still create. Madam (said Spartacus) you are so far above flattery, that whilst your generous Lover praises you all he can, you need apprehend nothing, but that he will come short of Truth. To which Perolla answer'd, (with a look that spoke his doubts, whether, what Spartacus had said, proceeded from his Justice, or a more dange∣rous Cause) you have (Sir) in this, as fully declar'd my opinion, as if we had but one Heart, and that too inspir'd with the same beauty, which is so accomplisht, that if Izadora will forgive me all faults which detract too much from her, I shall not need her pardon for those of a contrary nature. Spartacus by a little redness, testified the construction he made of Perolla's first words, but the apprehension of being deceiv'd in his opi∣nion, and the resolution he had taken up, of soon suppressing all suspiti∣ons of that quality, made him continue silent, which invited Izadora's Servant to prosecute what he had begun. Since (said he) my want of ex∣pressions for so transcendent an object, and her commands do both bind me from giving you a character of that by words, which your Eyes are bet∣ter able to perform; I will onely acquaint you, That though I remain'd a while without speaking, yet it proceeded not from any new fits of faint∣ing, but from having all my faculties employ'd, to receive those flames she then shot into me; and truly I found the fire so pleasing, and so just, that I made not any excuse for introducing it in the room of that Heart, I had till then preserv'd for the fair Amazora, the difference betwixt them being so great, that could I have suspended my Election, I should have concluded my Judgement, as dead as the first object of my Passion. To be brief, never Lover made more haste to fruition, than I to divest my self of liberty; and never Slave receiv'd his freedom with more joy than I resign'd up mine. But whilst I was in these first extasies, Izadora, who mis-interpreted my silence, ask'd me whether I had a mind to take any rest, for if I had, she would withdraw her self, Madam (I reply'd) if you have a mind I shall take any, I must derive it from your Presence, and not from your Absence, since the latter will be so far from giving me any ease, that it will divest me of all. Truly Sir (she answer'd) the condition you are in, methinks, may well dispence with civilities, and

your wounds are too dangerous to neglect (out of a compliment) any thing which may conduce to their recovery. If you mean (I reply'd) those wounds I receiv'd in the Street, they are too inconsiderable to purchase their ease by your absence: but if you intend those which are given me since I came into this Chamber, I must then confess, I would decline nothing, which might any way lessen their pain, or advance their recovery; but I find by experiment, that their nature is to be least troublesome, when the fair Enemy that made them, is visible. I had not ended speaking, when I perceiv'd all Izadora's face cover'd with blushes, and her Eyes arm'd with so majestick a Fire, that I almost repented the disclosing of what I could not possibly have longer silenc'd; but to disguise her disorder, she told me, I hope you have receiv'd no wounds since you came into this place, if you have, I dare assure you they were given without design. Alas Madam (I reply'd) I am then the more unfortunate, and that which you apply for a les∣sening, is an increase of my trouble, for my condition is so singular, that whereas in other cases, to hurt without design, is hardly an of∣fence, in mine the contrary, is the greatest that can befall me. But yet I may find some satisfaction, since custom enjoyns, wheresoever any wounds are receiv'd, without an intention of giving them, that the per∣son which gave them as a mark of innocency, should endeavour their cure, if it lyes in the givers power; permit me then to beg this cu∣stomary Tryal of the truth of your words, which is not called in que∣stion by me, but by my happiness. I esteem (answered Izadora) the rule you speak of so just, that were it I, which have hurt you, and that you shew me the wound, and prove your recovery in my power, I would oblige my self to be your Physitian. Alas Madam (I answer'd) the wound is in my Heart, and therefore not to be seen, but with the eyes of faith, but if my assurance will not convince you of its reality, the knowledge you have of your own Beauties, will doubtless effect it. I am glad (reply'd Izadora) that your hurt being in a mortal place, you are yet so well, which gives me some hope that the pain of your last wound, is rather in imagination than reality: but if it be internal, as you alledge, I dare not undertake to be your Chyrurgeon, for to discover the place where you say your wound is, I must make a greater, than I am confi∣dent I shall find there. Though indeed, replyes of this nature are not very pleasing in themselves, yet it was no small satisfaction to me, for from them I flatteringly referr'd, if she had a design of declining my Flame, I had spoken enough to acquaint her with it, and conse∣quently given her a rise to have mention'd her aversion from it, but her imposing on my Words a meaning, which indeed they could not well bear, and the troubling her self for their mis-construction, afford∣ed me some hope, that they were not absolutely unpardonable. gods! what extasies of joy did possess me, whilst I had that belief? and how I blest my wounds, that were the happy cause of so pleasing (though imaginary) a Felicity? But (alas) this was onely a capriciousness of Fortune, who gave me a taste of Happiness, that the subsequent fear might be the more intollerable: for the fair Izadora had forgot to ask of Blacius my Name, which she acquainted me with, and which I look'd up∣on, as her desire of knowing it. This made me tell her, Madam, had you had that curiosity whilst your Father was here, he could not have sa∣tisfied it: some important causes ty'd me to a concealment of it, nei∣ther can your knowing it, be any way advantageous to your service,

could I imagine it were, did the discovery bring more danger on me than cowards fancy, I would embrace them all with raptures of joy; yet per∣haps my life and sword may be more fortunate than my name by pro∣ving capable of serving you, if they be, I shall esteem both of them too gloriously employ'd: And truly (Madam) the little desire I had to be known, or continue long in this Town made me not inquisitive of your Fathers, but since I find my felicity or misery depends upon one that is of his Family, I shall humbly beg to be acquainted with it, and esteem it a high obligation if at least my curiosity may not prove prejudicial to him. Since (reply'd Izadora) you assure me, that my informing you of it will oblige you, I am confident the concealment cannot be of more consequence than the disclosure; and it is but reason that you should know who is your debtor, his name is Blacius, How Madam (I hastily reply'd) Blacius? the mortal Enemy of Pacuvius? Yes (said Izadora) that Blacius is my Father, and he who you so lately oblig'd? and my name Izadora. Ah Madam (I cry'd out, fetching a deep sigh) what is it that you have told me? The fair Izadora and I were so perplext, she at my exclaiming, and I at her information, that for a long while we both continu'd in silence; which at last she interrupted by desiring to know from whence my disorder proceeded, Alas, Madam (I reply'd) The great friendship I have contracted with Perolla (Pacuvius's son) is the cause of my trouble; how can I but deplore his misfortune in having you for his enemy; where your continuing so will (I fear) prove as great an inju∣ry to his felicity as I apprehend the contrary will be to your extraction. If (said Izadora) you are so intimately acquainted with Perolla, I be∣seech you inform me whether all those praises that are given him proceed from justice or partiality, Truly Madam (I reply'd) the knowing of him perfectly makes me unfit to resolve your question, for we were so much one, and had both so much the same Soul, that I plac'd the self same judgement on his actions which he himself did; and therefore you might aswell hope to be satisfied of Perolla from Perolla, as by enquiring any thing of him from me; but this I dare affirm, that had he once the hap∣piness I now have, he would have too the same inclinations; and if my passion possest him, after seeing so much Beauty, it would be of contra∣ry nature to what has been hitherto common to his Family. You must excuse me (said Izadora) if I believe he would prefer his duty before any other consideration, but I would not a little rejoyce at the contra∣ry; for since his hatred to our Family is his crime, I would have his love to one of it prove his punishment. Ah, Madam (I reply'd) are you then determin'd to be cruel? Must Perolla have so hard a Fate, that be∣cause his birth was unhappy, his life must be so too? Shall his misfortune in being Pacuvius's son be esteem'd his fault; and, shall a Sin he derives from his Father be more prevalent to create your hatred, than the ser∣vice he has pay'd Blacius be to produce a contrary effect? My Passion in this discourse transported me so far, that Izadora interrupted me by say∣ing. The words which you now speak (Sir) would induce me to believe that you are Perolla rather than his friend. Yes Madam (I reply'd, cast∣ing down my Eyes, and trembling all over) I do confess I am Perolla, and though at first I design'd not to acquaint you who I was, till my actions had in some degree qualifi'd your aversion to my blood; yet I find you have so transcendent an influence over me, that I could no more conceal my Name than my Passion. This overture gives you power equal to your desire of being reveng'd on our unfortunate Family. But remem∣ber

(fair Izadora) that 'tis cruelty not justice, to ruine one who is so far from resisting that he yields to your mercy. Whilst I was making this declaration, I could plainly read the trouble of her mind in her looks; sometimes methought they inclin'd to mercy, and then instantly they ap∣pear'd the contrary; at last my suspence vanish'd by Izadora's saying, I could gladly wish I had continu'd still in ignorance of your condition, since my knowledge of it reduces me either to betray Blacius, or Perolla, by discovering or concealing him. Madam (I reply'd) he keeping of my name secret is not of much importance, for if you now receive my Flame I shall embrace all dangers, and care not who knows me when I bear the glorious title of Izadora's Servant: and if you reject it, 'twill be an obli∣gation to let your Father know who I am, since I may hope from his re∣sentments and hatred that cure my deplorable condition will so abun∣dantly want. Izadora (as she since assur'd me) was offended that I had the confidence in so short a time to desire an acception of my affection•• that she answer'd me briskly; Pacuvius's son, who is an enemy to our Fa∣mily, must not here expect to be cur'd of any other wounds than those he receiv'd in defending the chief of it; and though your presumption merits my highest revenge, yet the consideration of what you have done for Blacius. will make me preserve your life in not disclosing who you are. She had no sooner done speaking, but she rose up, and was going out of my Chamber, when I cry'd out to her, Stay, fair Izadora, and see my life depends not on your silence, but on your approving my passion, which though you have so cruelly rejected, yet you shall find I have so much a higher concernment for all your interests than my own, that I will wash away in my Blood my presumption and unfortunate extraction; and since you have declar'd Perolla to be your Enemy, you shall perceive I will use him at that rate. Izadora at these passionate expressions turn'd about again; but when she saw me pulling off my plaisters, and tearing my wounds, she ran to my Bed-side, and falling on her knees, with a throng of sighs and tears she begg'd me not to be my own executioner; and if any words she had spoken were the unfortunate cause of so fatal an ef∣fect, she would recall them.

What need I tell you more (generous Spartacus) than that my despair was the way to my felicity, and that my design of killing my self pre∣serv'd my life by obtaining the fair Izadora's permission of making my addresses to her. But to lessen this excess of joy, I suspected for a while, that my apprehension of being unfortunate had like to have made me really so; and the way I had chosen to end my misery had almost created it; for in my despair I had so increast the danger of my wounds, by using them as I thought my condition then requir'd, that though the Chirur∣gions came hastily to bind them up, yet they could not undertake for my life, till they saw what operation that dressing would have, and to free me from all noise, that I might take a little sleep, Izadora was de∣sir'd to withdraw, which before she did, she came to my Bed-side, and told me softly, I hope what I have already done, has divested you of all thoughts of violence on your life, if it has not, remember that you cannot make any attempts against it; but I shall consider them as offer'd at mine. Madam (I reply▪d, kissing her hand with transports) what you have done, and what you have spoken, shall make me cherish as much as even now I did detest it, and since 'tis so glorious to merit your care, you cannot suspect it shall be deny'd mine. She was not long gone out of my Chamber, when Blacius came home; and coming to see me, he

was inform'd my condition was such, that his visit would rather prove•• trouble than a civility, which made him defer his design; but he went di∣rectly to Izadora's Chamber, to learn the cause of my disorder; for he was told she had not stirr'd out of mine since his going abroad; and that no other had been witness of my actions. His fair daughter was somewhat perplex'd at the question; but she assur'd him, to the best of her obser∣vation, it proceeded from a sudden distemper, wherein she told him the truth, and yet conceal'd it from him. The next morning the Chirurgions found the wounds of my Body (which held a strict sympathy with those of my Mind) so hopeful, that Blacius was present when they were drest, ex∣prest an infinite satisfaction; and indeed entertain'd me with such tran∣scendent care and civility, that had I ow'd my usage to his knowledge, and not to his ignorance of me, I had been in a felicity worthy of en∣vy. But his affairs calling him away, his place was supply'd by Izado∣ra; who acquainted me, that those Murtherers I had kill'd, had been for certain hir'd by Pacuvius to make away Blacius, and that one of them (as he lay weltring in his Blood) confest it to him, which was the cause of his going out that night so late, that the examinations might have been taken by one of the Magistrates, but at their coming, the party was found dead. Ah Madam (I reply'd) how I apprehend my Fathers attempts will be as cruel to his own son as the performance would have prov'd to his Enemy, and that what he intended for the destruction of Blacius will cause Perolla's; for it is but just, that the daughter should right the Father on the Son of his mortallest Enemy, especially since she has the power, and that Pacuvius's affe∣ction for me (as he has often declar'd) is greater than that he has for himself and consequently to afflict Perolla is the most sensible way of being re∣veng'd on his Father; neither can I expect a better Fate, unless Izado∣ra's Goodness be as great as my Passion. I shall always (she said) know how to distinguish between the guilty and the innocent; and therefore will not involve the Son in the Fathers Crime, especially since the gallantry of the former hinder'd the acted sin of the latter. Oh Madam (I answer'd) How great were my felicity would Blacius practice the same goodness. You need not doubt (she reply'd) in this last action, where your Blood testifies your innocence; but for his antient hatred, I fear his resentments. Alass (I cry'd out) I never have those thoughts but I tremble, and would it might please the gods as the blood I have spent already has purchast his esteem, so that the remainder were shed to continue it after his knowledge of my condition. For I should think my death glorious, could it wipe away the infelicity of my Birth, and count it a greater happiness to dye with the title of your Fa∣milies Friend, than to live in the contrary misfortune. The fair Iza∣dora perceiving how I afflicted my self with those sad impressions, told me, What I have already done may in some sort repress your fears, nei∣ther is despair pardonable but where impossibilities turn it into reason, a generous courage as Perolla's should not antedate his troubles, for sometimes our apprehensions make us miserable when our Fates de∣sign the contrary. Those (I reply'd) which did flatter me would of∣ten publish I had a courage above misfortunes, and I may justly say, in all those dangers I have yet undergone, I never resented any thing of fear, but what disasters my hard Stars impos'd on me, I found my consolation and security in my resolution; yet in my present conditi∣on, whether my fears proceed from some prescience of my ruine, or from a diffidence of so great a felicity I know not, but this I am certain of

that I find something within, which never until now I entertain'd. I con∣fess, (said the fair Izadora) when I think upon Blacius's hatred to your Family, I have some little tremblings which I can hardly suppress; but when I consider the services you have paid him, and those eminent qua∣lities you possess, I find no other way for the questioning your content, than by doing the like, as well to my Fathers judgement as gratitude, Madam, (I reply'd) I have nothing in me, nor have nothing for him which might so much raise my ambition: but since you do not onely command me to silence my fears, but alledge I have no cause to continue them, I will obey you, since 'tis as impossible for me to erre whilst I do so, as not to erre whilst I do not so. 'Twas with such pleasing discourses as these that I past some days, and 'twas well for the torment of my wounds, for no other charm had been of sufficient force to moderate their pain. At last, Fortune began to cloud this little Sun-shine, for Izadora under∣stood from a friend of hers, that a great disorder was in Pacuvius's house, by the arrival of a servant of mine (whom I would not permit to come into Salapia with me, but had order'd him to follow, lest I might be the likelier discover'd.) This servant assur'd my Father, that I was come be∣fore him alone into the Town, and that crossing a street upon the break of day, he had found my Horse, and observed much Bloud had been there spilt, but as for his Master, he could learn no news of him. This Lady was one which had free access into both our Families, and having then received some high disgust in Pacuvius's, told this secret to the fair Iza∣dora, in expectation that it might come to Blacius's knowledge, whose re∣venge she easily fancy'd would induce him to make it publick, which would at least have ruin'd me, if not my Father, for entertaining and concealing me, but she knew not, that she told this news to one that was better acqainted with the particulars of it than her self, and who was not a little concern'd in this unfortunate life. But Izadora, (after her de∣parture) came, and not onely acquainted me with this intelligence, but advis'd me to make my self known to Blacius, for since the business had already so much vent, if he came to learn it any other way, it might be lookt upon at a rate that would extreamly aggravate his former hatred. I must truly confess, had this advice proceeded from any other, I should have found a strong opposal in my obedience; but she had such an Ascendent over me, that in all her commands, how difficult soever they were in themselves, I did not onely find Reason, but Power to obey them; and in this injunction of hers, I had no sooner taken up my re∣solution, than I was furnisht with an opportunity to put it in practice; For Blacius, who was always present at the dressing of my wounds, was so sensible of the torment I endur'd, that he could not retain some drops from stealing out of his Eyes, and as soon as the Chirurgeons were gone, he embrac'd me, and said, If the gods (generous stranger) would grant a power of transferring pain upon him that is most desirous of it, you should quickly then resent none, but what your goodness for my suffer∣ings could produce. Were that priviledge (I answer'd) bestow'd upon me, my condition would not be at all improv'd, for that rule would con∣tinue the sufferings where they are already; neither could they be remov'd as you desire, without doubling my trouble, by afflicting me in that which I am more concern'd in, than in my self. You are (reply'd Blacius) so obliging, both in action and expression, that there is no way of in∣creasing my debt, but by acquainting how I may pay some part of it. When you speak (I reply'd) of being indebted to me, you do certain∣ly

mean to my Desires, and not my Actions, but because you are pleas'd to stile the effects of my Duty, Obligations, I will not oppose that be∣lief, since to have rais'd it, is onely my ambition, but is besides, ex∣ceeding necessary towards the obtaining of a request I have to make to you; a request of so strange a property, that the denial of it once, will make me uncapable of ever asking it again, and the granting of it, will never let me stand in need of asking any other. If (said Blacius with some impatiency) the granting this desire be in my power, why do you not name it? since to confer on you a concession of this qua∣lity and operation, will be a greater favour to the giver, than it can be to the Receiver. 'Tis, Sir (I reply'd) that you would pardon my un∣happy extraction, and not esteem, that my fault, which is my misfortune. An Extraction (Blacius answered) which has produced so much gallan∣try, cannot be low or inconsiderable, or if it be so in its self, your Vir∣tue will change it into the contrary, but (he continu'd) I cannot fancy why the granting of what you ask, can work so powerful an effect, as even now you mention'd. Alas, Sir, (I reply'd) you mistake my mean∣ing, for I am born in a Family that is considerable enough, both for An∣tiquity, Honour, and Wealth, and indeed, has no other effect or unhap∣piness, but what is caus'd by your aversion to it: I fear, after this Decla∣ration, you can no longer doubt, but 'tis Pacuvius's I intend, whose unfortunate Son I am. Is this (said Blacius, starting) to try how far my gratitude can extend, or else is it a real truth? 'Tis the latter (I answer'd) and though I apprehend by what I observe, that this discovery will prove my ruine, yet I had rather derive it from my Extraction, which is a crime I could not avoid, than by deluding you, which is a voluntary sin, and consequently might justly authorize your hatred. Blacius having cast up∣on me a hundred furious looks, at last told me; You are then Pacuvius's Son. Oh unjust Fates! must I owe my life to a cause which makes me detest it? and must my misery be so great, that to have dy'd by the hands of murtherers, hir'd by my enemy too, had been a happi∣ness? Is Life left me onely to know, that not to have been kill'd, was a misfortune? Then folding his Arms one within the other, he fetch'd, (with great steps) four or five turns about the Chamber and on a sudden, striking one of his Hands upon his Breast, he continu'd, No, no, I am not so wretched as my Passion would perswade me, for Pacuvius de∣sign was not only defeated, but was defeated by his Son: and Perolla by receiving wounds in this Quarrel, wounds his Father, who cannot consider the means, why his ends have fail'd, but the knowledge of the former will increase the misery of the latter, neither can I justly complain, when my mortal'st Enemy, instead of a pleasing revenge, embraces a double affliction: besides, after knowledge of what Perolla has done, he must either hate or love him, if the former, the intricacy is both admi∣rable and obliging, for the self-same action makes the Son preserve an Enemy, and loose a Friend, and the Father loose his revenge upon his ad∣versary, and his affection to his Son: If the latter, his being in a place which forbids his visits and assistants, will be no small trouble, and the doubts that I will take away Perolla's life will be Pacuvius's torment whilst he imagines his Son is living, and the knowledge when he is not so, will continue it after he is dead; and since he lives more in Perolla than in himself, his unequall'd treachery will justify my killing the most of him that I can. After many such strange reasonings as these, he drew out a Ponyard, and came towards me, to act what he had determin'd: I must

confess I was somewhat startled at this proceeding, but when I consider'd the averseness of his nature was such, that probably I could never obtain his consent of possessing his excellent Daughter, I had no more the de∣sire than the force to resist him, and therefore, just as he came to the Bed-side, I uncover'd my self, and shewing him my naked Breast, I told him, Here (Sir) this is the place you aim at, and therefore it shall not be defended by me, I am guilty, because you think me so, and since I am so miserable as to be hated by you, that death which you threaten me with, will be a justice as to your revenge, and a charity as to my con∣dition. That action and those few words produced a strange effect, for up∣on a suddain his high disorders began to lessen, his Face to dispel those clouds which darkn'd it; and at length fetching a sigh from the bottom of his Breast, he declar'd some expressions to this sence: What, shall an intentional injury from Pacuvius, be more prevalent with thee, than a real obligation from Perolla? shall the First-fruits of that life which thou holdest from his generosity, be to take away his, which has given thee thine? shall he be murther'd, because he hinder'd thee from being so? and shall the residue of his Bloud be spilt by thee, when all he has already lost, was shed for thee? besides, thou deriv'st the advantage thou hast now over him from his protection, for had it not been for that, thy death had taken from thee the Will and the Power of Revenge: Yes (he continu'd, addressing himself to me, and sheathing his Ponyard) you shall live Perolla, not only free from any attempt of mine, but secure∣ly also, from my acquainting Hannibal who you are, from whose resent∣ment you might expect as hard a destiny as from Blacius's, but the ser∣vices you have done the Romans, and me in particular, bind up my Hands. There is (I reply'd) a third way of destroying me, as certain as those two you have exempted me from, and that (Sir) is the denial of my first request, which to disswade you from, I may truly prosess, that all that bloud hated you, was spilt for you, for which I bless my for∣tune, that made me perform what was good by losing that which is ill. All my new Bloud I have bred up with such firm inclinations for you, that had it deriv'd its original from your self, it could not be more at your devotion: I must acknowledge too the justice of the gods in ma∣king me receive those wounds which Pacuvius intended for you, and to divert and reclaim him from such criminal designes, I shall make it my constant Prayers, that they may all have the fate which this had, and that by my sufferings I might prevent all those that are intended you▪ Blacius at these assurances, wholly banisht those cruel looks, which made me so much suspect my fate, and with an obliging accent, conjur'd me to tell him, what use I could make of his condescending to my desire. I should then (I reply'd) by a continual succession of services have some hopes to obtain your permission of making my addresses to the fair Iza∣dora. (This spoke unadvisedly, having flatter'd my self into a belief, that in the temper Blacius was in, I might procure some engagement which his generosity (though he should afterwards repent) would not permit him to recall: but alas! I soon found my expectation deceiv'd, for after this declaration, in an instant he arm'd himself again with that severe countenance he so late had laid aside, and with a Tone, as cruel as his words, he told me, Is Izadora then the object of your design? 'tis very like indeed, I should present her to his Son that executed her Uncle, would have murther'd his Father, and who to satisfy a private malice has given up his Countrey to the Enemies of it. These truly are

obligations to court a Mistriss with. Sir (I reply'd, somewhat mov'd) you still reproach me with anothers crime, if Magins was put to death to please Hannibal, I made use of it in Pettely to raise him enemies: If Blacius life was attempted, I preserv'd it by the hazard of my own: and if Capua was deliver'd up to the Carthagineans, I became (to him that did it) from a Son, an Enemy, and so wedded my Countreys quar∣rel, that thereby Hannibal lost more Men, than perhaps the taking that great City would have cost him. I must confess (reply'd Blacius) you have done much for me, and for the Romans, and upon both those scores you have receiv'd no unfruitful return, since for those services you did our Empire, I preserve you (not without an eminent hazard) from the knowledge of the enemies of it: and for what you have done my par∣ticular, I suspend those resentments which your Fathers treachery highly invites me to execute, and because my debt to you is a Life, (as I think nothing can be a sufficient payment, but an obligation of the same nature) so after your receiving that satisfaction, I can be no longer esteem'd in∣debted to you. Sir, (I answer'd) if you will tye your self to what your last words now profest, I shall as highly approve of your proceeding, as of my own happiness, but your silencing of your own resentments, and the concealing me from the Carthagineans is no preservation, unless you permit me also to be a servant to the fair Izadora: That is the onely means to save my life, and without it, all the other you can mention, will be rather miseries than favours: neither can a man say, that he preserves his Enemies life, because he exempts him from the Sword or Poyson, if at last he makes him dyesome other way: what you have promis'd, only frees me from two ways of ruine, to cast me into a third, that is more cer∣tain and painful than either: No, no, Sir (I continu'd) if you banish me from Izadora, the highest effects of yours or Hannibal's hatred will be pleasing, and cut me from those languishing torments your refusal will cre∣ate. I have already told you (said Blacius) that you must not expect Izadora, who I will sooner marry to her Grave, than to any enemy of your Family; but because you shall have no occasion of condemning me of cru∣elty, I will truly state those obligations you pretend to have conferr'd on me, and those I have really plac'd on you. I acknowledge you sav'd my life, and `tis likely I deriv'd that obligation from your ignorance, but I did preserve yours after my knowledge of you; had you the invi∣tations of oppressed innocency to procure me your assistance; I had a just revenge to disswade me from pardoning you, and yet did it; The glory of your action was your reward, but the mercy of mine, may pro∣bably prove my punishment: besides, what you did for me, was no more favour than to draw me out of a danger, wherein you had cast me, for I had not needed the assistance of one of your Family, had not the trea∣chery of the chief of it, been the occasion; so that you can never mention the obligation you did me, without discovering your Fathers infamy. As you sav'd me from murthering, so you hindr'd Pacuvius from being a murtherer. You preserv'd my life from being a sacrifice to violence, but by it you hinder'd your Fathers from being one to Ju∣stice, and whilst you onely defeated him of his revenge, you exempted him both from the guilt and punishment of of it: so that you have oblig'd Pacuvius more than me. And since you pleaded that anothers crime ought not to be accounted yours; so your Virtues ought not to be attributed to your Family, to which I am so irreconcileable an Enemy, that it lies not in the power of any one of it, to reconcile me to it. No,

young man (he continu'd) after what I have done, you cannot condemn me of ingratitude, without practising your self, what you would blame in me. Sir (I reply'd) though I believe I could answer all your objecti∣ons, yet the means I must take to clear those already mentioned, will create a greater than any I shall confute, which is my disputing against you, but if all those arguments you use, be to prove your denying me Izadora, is not an effect of your ingratitude, but your justice, I will abun∣dantly confess it, and declare, besides, if you fancy otherwise, you do as great a wrong to me, as you do to my Felicity, in refusing my passi∣onate desires. I had no sooner ended those words, but that Blacius calling the fair Izadora (who had been present at all this dispute, and in whose face you might have known the several tempers of it) told her, I am glad Perolla acknowledges my depriving him of his happiness is an action of Justice, I hope then no man can condemn my revenge, when Justice con∣curs with my inclination to confer it on me; I do therefore (Izadora) conjure thee, by whose wrongs his Family has done ours, by thy Uncle Magius Bloud, which Pacuvius sacrific'd to his hatred, by thy Fathers life, which he would have destroyed upon the same score, and by the glory of so sitting a revenge, scorn his Flame, and let him find in thy hatred, the punishment of his Fathers to all thy Family. At this cruel command the perfect Izadora became white as innocence, and after her disorder was a little past, casting down her eyes to the ground, she thus reply'd. Alas (Sir) your commands are come too late, for before I knew who he was, I gave him so large at Empire over me, that 'tis impossible to recall it; neither when I consider him bath'd in bloud for your preserva∣tion, rejoycing at his wounds, because they hinder'd you from any that were dangerous, losing his Father to preserve his Fathers enemy, and when you assur'd me you would judge of my affection to you by that I should pay him, I cannot repent what I have done, my friendship for Perolla, is deriv'd from my obedience to you, and my gratitude to him; who can then condemn a production from such noble causes? beside, he has no∣thing that's enemy to us but his name, his actions are not, for by them I enjoy a Father. Can you then have so low an opinion of my resentments, as to believe any consideration can make me hate the giver of so great a blessing? if then my affection for him be a sin, you will, I hope, pardon it by the knowledge of what occasions it. I do therefore (Sir) conjure you, by that precious life you owe his gallantry, by the Bloud of Magius, he has so generously reveng'd, by those services he has paid our Empire, and by the glory you will purchase by vanquishing your Enemy (as you term him) without revenge; permit Perolla to divest you of that pre∣judicate opinion you have for all his Family, or to assume a confidence by his repeated services, to remove that high aversion you have for his un∣fortunate extraction. Though these words in themselves were strangely moving, yet they were deliver'd with an action and tone so compassionate and ravishing, that no heart, which had not been harder than cruelty it self, could have resisted them. But alas, they were so far from produ∣cing any good effects, that Blacius with a look, that had all things of hor∣rid in it, told her, are you then so desirous to displease me, that to effect it, you will become a friend to your Fathers enemy, that you may be∣come an enemy to him? will you ruine my happiness, to create Perolla's? and will you shew me the way to be reveng'd on his cruel Family, and then hinder me from acting it? must that which deprives me of my re∣venge, deprive me of my Daughter too? must the cause why I do not

punish my Enemy, be as great a misfortune to me, as that is which he a∣voids? and to increase my trouble, must your affection and duty to me (which were my highest felicity) be the occasion of my proportionate misery? Ah Izadora (he continu'd, for I will no longer call you Daugh∣ter) will you then bestow your self upon this Perolla, when even now he declar'd, that to be deny'd you was just? do you love injustice so well, that in one action you will be unjust to Blacius, and to his Enemies? and will you make such haste to pay a debt that is not due, by declining one that is? Go barbarous Maid, unworthy of my Care (as well as Bloud) I will inflict on thee no greater punishment, than the granting thy desires, for when thy reason, or his embraces, has banisht or quencht thy impi∣ous flame, thou wilt know and deplore thy sin, in preferring a Lover be∣fore a Father. Go then, but for ever, and mayst thou never know what happiness is, but avoid it. Finishing these words, he went out of the Chamber, and left us in a perplexity, as great as his disorders; But before I could speak to the fair cause of them, he return'd again, and thus con∣tinu'd his discourse to his excellent Daughter. No no, I have thought better on't, for to cross a desire, though it be an ill one, is a revenge, and 'tis upon that score you shall never see Perolla more, for whom, if you continue your passion, you shall find from my justice (in separa∣ting you) as severe an affliction, as I can resent from your want of Du∣ty by your union. Do not think to divest me from this determination, for all your Tears and Prayers, will be as fruitless for your Lover, as mine to you were against him. (Then addressing himself to me, he said) And thou (cruel stranger) which by saving my life, hast made it my torment, and for my unfortunate care in bringing thee here to heal thy wounds, hast created as much misery in my Family, as there had been joy in thine had thy Father murthered me, remember as soon as my Chirurgeons tell thee thou art fit to travel, that thou quit my House, for if thou stayest a minute longer, by that quiet thou hast rob'd me of, I'll sacrifice thy life unto my just resentments. Then thrusting the fair Izadora out before him, he went away in a rage, almost equal to mine at that inhumane action. I will not tell you (said Perolla to Spartacus) all those expressions my grief and anger extorted from me, whose greatness you may in some sort guess, when I assure you I was so blinded with rage, that I made many criminal designs against his Life, which was so much an Enemy to mine, and had not my weakness hindred me, I had perhaps attempted that, which if performed, had made me worthy of all those miseries his hate has inflicted on me. But after this first heat was qualified, the conside∣ration that he was Izadora's Father, banisht those criminal resolutions, and struck me with so deep a grief, that my repentance had like to have proved his revenge. But (to be brief) Strato (for so was my Servant called, that follow'd me into Salapia) never left inquiring after me, till by his diligence, he had gotten some suspitions, that 'twas I which had sa∣ved Blacius, and was carried by him into his House; therefore to satisfy himself, by a considerable Present, he obtained leave from one of my Chirurgeons, to attend him as his servant, where when my wounds were next drest, he discovered what he sought, and himself to me. I was not a little over-joyed, by the finding out so faithful a Servant, and having acquainted him with those several accidents which had be fallen me since our ••eparation, I enjoyned him to try if he could possibly learn some way how I might see Izadora, or convey a Letter to her; but though his industry left nothing unessay'd, yet it proved absolutely fruitless,

for Blacius had so faithful and strict a Watch about her, that 'twas impos∣sible to corrupt or deceive them. But to increase the misery I then groan∣ed under, Strato (one day) told me, Pacuvius had discovered where my retreat was, and how I endangered my own Life to preserve his Ene∣mies, with which he was so inraged, that he commanded him to tell me as I had divested my self of all duty to him, so he had done the like of all affection to me, and that if I had any reliques of respect for him, I should shew it, by never coming into his sight again: he further told me, that Pacuvius had once determined to acquaint Hannibal, how Blacius conceal∣ed his Enemy, but that the fear of my ruine which would be involved in Blacius's had restrained him. You may well believe, that this was no small accession to my trouble, and truly I think had not I so great a sup∣port as my belief of Izadora's affection and constancy, I had sunk under the weight of my misfortunes. At last, through the great care Blacius Servants had of me, whether it proceeded from his generosity, to hasten the regaining of that health I had lost from him, or from his revenge to ba∣nish me the sooner from being near Izadora: in spight of the indisposi∣tion of my mind, that fatal day came, wherein the Chyrurgeons told me, I might undertake a journey without any pain or danger, O how I curst their skill that separated me from my desires! and how much more I had valued their Ignorance than their Art. Before I went away, I sent Strato to Blacius, to know if he would permit me to wait on him, and make him those retributions which his care for my recovery merited; but he sent me word, my abesence more than my presence, would better discharge any debt I pretended to owe him, and that I could not more oblige him, than by a sudden departure from that House, which I had flung into so many disorders. I obeyed this cruel Message, and that night (for I durst not stir by day, lest I might have been discovered) I quitted Blacius's House, neither did I visit Pacuvius, who I was willing should see I would disobey him in nothing, since I did it not in an injunction so opposite to my duty and inclination. I had not retired an hour in a friends House, when I called Strato to me, and told him, I was resolv'd before I left Sa∣lapia, to see the fair Izadora, which I fancied could not be very difficult, since she lay (for the coolness of the Lodging, it being then Summer) in a lower Chamber next the Garden. Strato, who consider'd my safety above my satisfaction, earnestly (though vainly) disswaded me from it, there∣fore we went silently to the Garden door, which answered on a by-lane, then having pickt the lock, I got in, and was conducted by Strato to that window, where he assur'd me Izadora lay, I commanded him then to re∣turn, and give me warning, if he should discover any thing worthy my knowledge: he was no sooner gone, but I walkt softly to the place he directed me to, lest some company might have been with her, but as the gods would have it, she was all alone (having retired her self into her Closet which was joyning to her Chamber) there looking in, I discover∣ed her by the light of a small Taper, sitting on a Chair, leaning her Cheek upon one hand, and wiping her Tears off with the other; I was amazed to ••ind her in such a posture, but suddenly my wonder was turned in∣to joy (at least as much as I was capable of, when she was so drown'd in sorrow) finding by her discourse, that I was the object of hers. Alas (she said, accompanying her words with a heavy sigh) perhaps at this instant that I onely but deplore Perolla's absence, I may have cause to lament his death, through Blacius's cruelty, by acting himself his revenge, or by gi∣ving Ha••nibal the means to do it. Wretched Izadora! must the not know∣ing

whether thou art miserable make thy misery? and must thy doubts of being unfortunate, render thee really so? No, no; I fear they are not on∣ly bare suspitions make me thus unhappy, but that my eyes weep by Prophecy, what they must shortly by Evidence.

I must confess, said Perolla, though it were a crime thus to intrench up∣on her retirement, yet I found in that fin, a more obliging joy, than I could in the reward of Virtue; and doubtless, I had longer continued my transgression, had I not thought it a greater to leave her in a sadness I could so soon remove: Therefore making a little noise, I told her, Ma∣dam, if your apprehensions for Perolla be the blest and sad cause of your Tears, you may now silence them, since he is in a condition of appre∣hending nothing but your disdain. Never, to my remembrance, did I see so strange a surprize as those words were to that excellent Beauty to whom they were spoken, who, though she a long time nicely consi∣der'd me, yet could she not fancy I was Perolla, for her Father (to destroy that friendship she honour'd me with) had given her so much cause to despair for my life, that her sense could not convince her belief I was li∣ving; but at length her disorder was so far supprest, tht coming to the window she askt me softly, whether I was really what I pretended to be? and if I were, what made me so evidently endanger my life, and conse∣quently hers? Madam (I reply'd) I am the happy Perolla (that which I have heard since I came to this place, makes me assume that Title) and I am come to know how you will dispose of a life, which you are pleas'd to be so much concern'd in. You live then, gallant Perolla (she said) and Blacius, after all his threatenings, has preserv'd your life. No Ma∣dam, I (answer'd) 'tis not Blacius, but Izadora which has done it; that glorious confession she made him in my favour, was the essential cause of it; all that Blacius did, was, that he kill'd me not, but 'twas his unequal'd Daughter give me my life by giving me that which makes me value it; and I should be more unworthy the gift, had the apprehension of any danger hindered me from acknowledging at her feet, that as I hold it by her, so I Will only preserve and employ it for her. If, said Izadora, you had given me so large an Empire over you, before this visit, I should have enjoyn'd you to trust my justice, in believing your goodness, ra∣ther than thus hazard your safety for the expressing of it. Madam (I re∣ply'd) I should more endanger it by going away without assuring you of this duty, than I do in the paying of it, for that might have ruin'd me in your good opinion, which I more fear than all that my Enemies can act against me. You are (she answer'd) so deeply fix'd in my esteem, that hardly any action of yours, much less one which hinder'd you from danger, can prejudice you in it. But fair Izadora (I reply'd) may not your Fa∣thers hatred, my unfortunate extraction, and my own unworthiness, raise your justice to the suppression of your present mercy, and the ruine of my Felicity? Ah Perolla (she answer'd with a little blush) can you then suspect my constancy? Silence I beseech you all such doubts, for you need not fear I will commit a fault, in the which I shall find my punishment; neither can you believe I will prefer any other before you, without do∣ing as great a wrong to my judgement as my happiness: but (she conti∣nued) may not I (Perolla) suspect, that Blacius's cruelty may induce you to withdraw your Passion from his Daughter? and that your revenge may be more predominant than your affection? Madam (I reply'd) I attest the gods, if my words have given you the least doubt, that I fear'd you would prove inconstant, they did not express my meaning: for if I

have any suspition, 'tis not of your Virtue, but of my Felicity; and if I were jealous of your change, I am not so rude or partial to my self, as to call that your inconstancy, which would be but your justice; but if I had had any suspitions of that nature, what you have been pleas'd to say would make me rather cherish than condem them, since they are the cause of my receiving assurances of an affection, as far transcending my hope as my desert. As to those doubts you mention'd of your Fathers hatred raising any resentments in me; I attest the self-same powers I even now invok'd, that as long as I am blest with your esteem, I can be capa∣ble neither of misfortune nor change; and though I have lost Pacuvius and Blacius, yet when I consider what I have thereby obtain'd, I shall ne∣ver repent the purchase. We had certainly past the night away in so pleasing a conversation, had not Izadora's Woman interrupted it by knocking at the Closet-door, and telling her, That Blacius at his coming home (for he was then abroad) would doubtless visit her, and if he found her up at so unseasonable an hour, it might raise suspitions, which would hardly be supprest. This fatal summons I receiv'd with extream reluctan∣cy; but Izadora, who knew the truth of it, and who apprehended my discovery; told me, 'twas time to retire, and having made me a thousand protestations of her constancy, she strictly forbad me any such hazard∣ous visits, enjoyning me to go into the Roman Army, and endeavour there to get friends strong enough to suppress her Fathers aversion for me: Then having setled an address for our Letters, I kist her fair hands, and resign'd the Office of my words unto my Tears, which only assur'd her, how cruel I esteem'd that separation. 'Twas in this sort, Sir, (conti∣nu'd Perolla) that we contracted an affection, which has cost us so many miseries, and which I never deplor'd, but only for that share the fair Iza∣dora had in them; and though at this sad farewel I had abundant cause to be highly satisfied with her ambition'd friendship, yet I have always had a Genius so apt to torment me, that I found my misfortune in my hap∣piness, the knowledge of her making my departure from her the more unsupportable.

Here Izadora (who feared that the Relation of her Servants Life might endanger it) put a stop to it by remembring him, that by their contract he was to acquaint Spartacus with no more than what had hap∣pen'd in her Fathers House. Perolla with a look full of humility, acknow∣ledg'd her care, and by his silence, gave her a rise, thus to prosecute their History.

The end of the Fourth Book of the First Part.

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIRST PART.

BOOK V.

I Cannot resemble the greatness of that grief I resented for Perolla's departure to any thing more aptly than to my joy and fear before it; and though Blaciu's fu∣ry could have inflicted no cruelty on him which I should not at least equally have participated, yet I may justly profess my apprehensions for him were more sen∣sible than for my self, and that you may know they proceeded as much from my Reason as Affection, my Fa∣ther had removed his Lodgings to those over mine, and had set such faithful and vigilant Centinels about me, that had not his then being abroad, and their unsual neglect both concurred for Perolla's safety, he might have fallen into troubles, the thoughts of which has a thousand times created mine; and he was no sooner retir'd than Blacius came in∣to my Chamber, where, with many expressions of gladness he celebrated his Protectors remove, and enjoin'd me the like resentments for the same cause: but though disobedience to Parents be a Crime, yet when I con∣sider'd the occasion of mine, I could not give it that Name; for I esteem'd the object of my affection so deserving, that I had no way so justly to merit my sufferings as by not resolutely avowing so pure and merito∣rious a Friendship. But whilst I was thus persecuted by the Enemy of our affections, Perolla was persecuting him of our Empire. 'Twas he, who under Fabius and Marcellus recovered that Cassilinum by assualt which was lost my Famine: 'Twas he, that during Marcellus's sickness at Nola reconquer'd the Samnites, Lucalians, and Appulians, by the loss of 25000 of the Rebels and Affricans: In a word, 'Twas he perform'd such sublime Actions, that had I not known the Charms of his person and con∣versation, I could not yet have resisted those of his Fame. The Winter, which succeeded this active Summer, Hannibal made Salapia his Head∣quarters, and though he had endeavoured by a world of civilities to make a friend of Blacius (who Perolla, intent only on those accidents which re∣lated to his Amours had omitted to acquaint you, was invited and per∣swaded into this Town by the Carthaginians, after it was his) yet the mi∣series of his Countrey, and Magius's Blood were so recent in his memory, that none of Hanniballs inticements could induce him to stifle his designs of revenge; in order to which, he made use of the Carth••ginians offer, but yet lived under his Power, only to destroy it. But the time of Fa∣bius's Consulship being expired, the Senate, to testifie the value they plac'd upon his merit, elected his son to succeed him, and the Father, either

to manifest the goodness of their choice, or to evince he believed who∣ever they esteem'd fit to command in chief, he thought himself not too good to serve under, procured a Commission from the Senate, to be Lieu∣tenant-General to his own Son. It was worthy observation when the Father came into the Camp, and the Son rode forth to meet him: Ele∣ven of the 12 Lictors, which carried Rods and Axes before the Consul, suffer'd him in respect of his Age and Relations to pass by them on Horse∣back, which was positively against the custom, and, which the Son per∣ceiving, commanded the last of his Lictors to note it; who, thereupon bad the old Fabius to alight, and come to the Consul on foot, which he cheerfully did, and told him, 'Twas not son my neglect but my design, to make tryal whether you understood your self to be what you are.

I have related (said Izadora to my Prince) a particular, which though it has nothing of connexion to our story; yet being in that time exceeding∣ly discours'd of, I hope 'twill procure your excuse. Spartacus having as∣sur'd her that she had committed no fault but in thinking she had commit∣ted one, begg'd her to prosecute those Adventures wherein he took so much interest and satisfaction. This young Fabius (she continu'd) was General of the Roman Army when Blacius had brought a design of deli∣vering Salapia and Hannibal into the Senates Power, to so much per∣fection, that there wanted onely as much time as the acting it would take up; The day which preceded that night, in which this Plot was to be executed, my Father, who had covertly drawn the Consul with some Forces near this Town, sent a Confident of his to advertise him, that at any hour he should appoint, he had so many Partizans at his devotion, as he could secure for him either the Samnite or the Brutian Gate, and that he de∣sir'd to know which of them would be most commodious for his attempt.

This Agent returning about the dusk of the evening, unfortunately met with a Commander of the Carthagineans, whose gate and habit was so resembling unto Blacius's that blinded with that, belief, he took him aside, and told him, The Consul would not fail at midnight, and that the Sam∣nite Gate would be most commodious. You may easily believe these words did as much surprize the Carthaginian, as the knowledge of this mi∣serable error did afterwards him that had committed it: But the Cartha∣ginian had too long follow'd the trade of War, not to conclude by what had been said what was to have been done; which made him immedi∣ately seize upon the unfortunate Agent, and carry him to Hanniball; who, by exquisite Torments, forc'd him to reveal the whole Conspiracy. This discovery was as pleasing to Pacuvius (who then was present) as de∣plorable for Blacius, who, with exceeding diligence, was by a strong Guard violently carry'd into a Prison, which in the greatness of its horror had this of advantageous, that it made Death a Comparative Good. Fa∣bius for all sustain'd no loss but that of his hopes, for though he were in Arms all night, yet by my Fathers committal, the Signal not being given, (which was a lighted Torch our of a Turret Window) he conceiv'd the design had vent, and so leisurely a little before day retreated to his Camp. But alass, I was no sooner inform'd of Blacius's sad Fate, then I lamented him as dead, the knowledge of Hanniball's vindicative Nature justifying that prophetical way of grieving: but after I had moderated which those tears my Sex and Relation render'd unavoidable, and that thereby my Reason was less hinder'd from acting, I resolv'd to write unto Perolla, who I knew was in the Consuls Army. The Letter I sent by a trusty Messenger, and was to this purpose.

IZADORA to the generous PEROLLA.

BLacius has lost his life for his zeal to the Romans, unless your power with Fabius preserve it, by obtaining prisoners for his Ransom, or sus∣pend his Death by a high Message of making all the Affricans in his hands follow my Fathers destiny. Do not now I beseech you consider Blacius as Perolla's Enemy, but as Izadora's Father; and by a second protecting him create his affection, or else so justifie mine, that want of duty may appear vir∣tue: and though his past insensibility would render your revenge very just yet your saving him will therefore render your Generosity more eminent.

Whilst with great impatience I expected a return of this Paper, Han∣nibal, to make his revenge appear rather the effect of justice than of pas∣sion, proceeded against Blacius in the ordinary forms of Law; by which he was condemn'd to lose his Head, and to have his four Quarters fixt up∣on the Gates of Salapia, for a future Terror to all others. O gods! when this fatal Sentence came to my hearing, what did not I utter against Han∣nibal's Cruelty, and Blacius's ill Fortune: But whilst I was in the midst of my despair, my Messenger return'd with this answer from my generous Friend,

PEROLLA to the fair IZADOR

BLacius, as he is a Friend to the Romans, cannot without a high Injustice apprehend my not being his; But as he is Izador's Father he cannot without a higher doubt of my exposing all that is most precious for him; and though his severity has been somewhat great, yet his admirable Daughter by a contrary extreme has so over-repair'd all his injuries, that the service I intend to render him will relish as much of gratitude as obedience. Fabius, Madam, will embrace your Fathers deliverance as he ought; and if his endeavors prove un∣successful, I will either free him from so sad a destiny, or my self from the misery of seeing you deplore it.

Oh! How pleasing and forlorn at once was this Letter, I saw my Fa∣thers deliverance promis'd, but the way which conduc'd unto it was almost as great a misfortune as it exempted me from: for I found I must hazard all my felicity in attempting to save but a large part of it. Whilst I was thus perplext, I was inform'd that the Consul had sent a Trumpet to Hanni∣bal, with an offer of all his Libian Prisoners for the redemption of Bla∣cius, and a deep protestation in case he executed him, that he would give no Quarter to those he had already, nor any others in the future. To the first of which, the Carthaginean reply'd, That he valu'd the execu∣tion of Justice more than the Romans could the saving a Traytor, and upon that score he would not pardon Blacius's life for a few Prisoners, who being so merited to continue so: And as to his latter threatning, he believ'd it was sent when he remembred not Cannes, Trebia, Tissinum, and Thrassimene: and though Fabius by executing those he had then in his pow∣er, would sooner free him from a trouble than give him any; yet he would consider that action as 'twas intended, and vindicate himself at that rate. In a word, he sent him a positive answer, That all the offers or threatnings

of the Romans, no not the saving his dear Brother Asdrubal's life (were it in their power) should tye up his hands from so just and necessary a Re∣venge. I was further acquainted, that Hanniball had given order before the Trumpet was withdrawn, to have a Scaf••old erected in the Alarm∣place, and had sworn by the glory of Carthage, and his Fathers Memory, (Oaths which he held in greatest veneration) That before two days were ended, Blacius should receive the reward of his Infidelity. I might ap∣pear too impertinent, did I acquaint you what sad operations this cruel Sentence produc'd in me: it shall suffice to tell you, that my weeping in the apprehensions of my Fathers death had well-near caus'd my own, and that I had shed so many antedated tears for it, that had the cruel Hanni∣bal seen them, they would doubtless have quench'd his rage. But whilst I abandon'd my self to a grief, that was as just as great, the Night arriv'd which was the Eve to that fatal Day; and as the horror of darkness is always apt to raise in us dismal imaginations; I fancy'd the unfortunate Blacius all pale and bloody coming to my Bed-side, and after he had view'd me, with a look which had almost reduc'd me to the condition he was in, he told me, Behold Izadora, behold these several wounds (which he open'd so wide, that his Soul, had it yet inhabited his Body, might have come entire out of the least of them) though they are full of torment, yet I have forc'd my self to travel from the Elizium: where I have re∣ceiv'd the reward of my fidelity to the Romans, and of my Martyrdom under Hanniball, to come and conjure thee by the duty thou owedst me before I was a Ghost; by the joy I have left, and the pain I shall suffer till thou grantest my request: now thou art at thy own dispose, never shew thou hast that power by giving thy self to Perolla; but as thou art Heir to our Blood, be so also to our generous resentments, and let him find that revenge in thy beauty and disdain which he thought he had avoided by the extinction of our Family: if thou grantest me this, the blessed Plains cannot afford me equal satisfaction; but if thou deny'st it, all the felicity of that place will lose its quality; and where others find their happiness, I shall torment. These words methought were spoken with Eyes swell'd with Tears, and with an accent so moving, that in my life I never was in a higher perplexity: I began a thousand times to con∣demn those learned Men which taught us, that the felicity of the other life is so perfect an extasie of joy, that it needs no foyl to set it off; and that they in it are no more sensible of any concern for us here than we are capable of conceiving their felicity there; when alass to my cost I found one there not only retain'd an unjust desire of Revenge, which poyson'd all other delights, but also prosecuted a virtue here which was to possess the highest Empire there: and I esteem'd it one great misfor∣tune of the other World, that those in it were confin'd to their happi∣ness, but by having a liberty of going from their own, they could there∣by ruine, or at least interrupt ours. Oh, How I did also inwardly exclaim against my Fathers Tyranny, who pretended a power over me after that by death the Bond was cancel'd, that that he would be so much an Enemy to my felicity, as to deprive me of mine he would involve himself in the like Fate. But whil'st I was preparing such an answer for this ima∣nary Ghost as might render my disobedience a justice, I was diverted by a noise so confused and loud, that that death it seem'd to threaten had been rather to be elected than avoided, since therein I had been exempted from hearing so much horror. After half an hours suspence and fear, a Ser∣vant of my Fathers came into my Chamber with a lighted Torch,

and to remove my doubts, told me, he believ'd that 'twas some false alarum, which Hannibal had given to try the readiness of his Soldiers; for there was no Enemy near enough to give him a true one; and whil'st he was fortifying this conjecture by some other allegations, we heard a noise in the Garden; and suddenly after I perceiv'd a Gentlemen all arm'd and cover'd with blood coming towards me, and leading another, whose hands were loaden with Irons. As soon as the first was come to my Beds-side, he kneel'd down and told me, Your commands, Madam, have not onely given me the desire, but the power to serve you; and since my hazarding a life that I fear is but indifferent, to you I have preserv'd one that you highly value, I shall find in the action the Reward. Then rising and turning towards the Prisouer, he continu'd, You are at liberty, Sir, and if I had had the power to free you from your Chains as well as from your Prison, you had long ere now been eas'd of that burthen; but that office I must leave to some happier hand, lest by my continuance here the joy of your freedom might be extinguish'd by your knowledg of him that gave it you. Then faluting us with a humility as great as his obligation, with∣out staying for any answer, he went out of the house the same way he came in; and left us in so deep an astonishment, that for a long while we could not get out of it. The first thing I perceiv'd after my amazement vanisht, was, that the fetter'd Prisoner was Blacius; ah! How pleasing was that surprize? and how I detested my disorder, which had so long suspended and separated me from my joy, which wrought so powerfully on me, that forgetting the posture I was in, I flung my self out of my Bed, and at my Fathers feet, by a thousand irregular actions testified the greatness of my satisfaction; which the more I reflected on, the less cause I found to suppress any effects which proceeded from or illustrated it; neither can my amazement for the greatness and suddeness of this alte∣ration be attributed to the weakness of my Sex, since Blacius, whose courage had out-brav'd many dangers, resented a resembling one: And 'twas a long while and by many extravagancies that I withdrew him from his; which when I perceiv'd entirely vanisht, I embrac'd his knees and cry'd out, You are then alive, Sir, and the gods have heard my reite∣rated prayers and tears for your deliverance. Yes, Izadora (he reply'd) I am once again at liberty, and doubtless owe that blessing immediately to those powers to whom thou hast address thy weepings; for certainly those prodigies of valor acted for my relief were too much transcending a hu∣mane strength: But alass (he continu'd, turning about, and perceiving none in the Chamber but his unfortunate Daughter) What is become of my Protector? He is gone Sir (I answer'd) and his departure has left as high a testimony of his modesty here, as even now he did of his valor in the Prison. His modesty (said Blacius) is as injurions as his courage was obliging; for in acquainting me with a new Gallantry, he has de∣priv'd me of expressing my gratitude for the old. If (I reply'd) he could but hear your resentments in his favour, I am so well acquainted with his disposition, that I dare assure you he would esteem not only too plen∣tiful a reward for what he has already done, but for those services he hopes to pay you in the future; but the apprehension he had that the same fate which attended Perolla might wait on him, and that what his valor did create, your knowledge of his condition might destroy, made him so suddenly vanish, and rather elect to leave you a good opinion of him by not knowing his Name, than hazard the contrary by a re∣vealing of it.

I am then (he reply'd) still so unhappy, that to know, and not to know to whom I am indebted for my life must prove an equal misfor∣tune? No, no, Izadora (he continu'd) I conjure you by all the gods, if you are acquainted with my Deliverer, and would have me relish what he has given me, inform me who he is, and where he resides, for rather than leave him so ill a character of my resentments, I will repeat greater dangers than he has freed me from; and to assure him of my Gratitude, I will undertake (it may be to perform) actions of as tran∣scendent a quality as those which created it: This I command you as a duty, and this I beg of you as a charity; neither can you suspect in this discovery the same destiny which attended Perolla, the difference of the action justly silencing those apprehensions, For though it be true, that the ends are the same, yet the ways are extremely different: Perolla per∣haps was surpriz'd into his gallantry. This acted it with premeditation, that freed me onely from the hands of an apparent violence, but this from a seeming Justice: That did but the duty of every man in suppres∣sing Murtherers, who are the destroyers of humane Society; and who knows whether his seeing my distress did not put him in mind of what his own might be as soon as my death had given those that were acting it in the liberty and the power, and so, that which you term his giving me life, might be in order to preserve his own; But this generous Stran∣ger had no motive to invite his assistance but his gallantry, which makes him attempt an action, where the undertaking of it is as great a wonder as the per∣formance, and has thereby so bound me to gratitude, that I believe were it Perolla that had thus obliged me, I should almost suppress my just re∣sentments for his Family, and that performance which gave me my life and liberty, might give him my affection and friendship. Sir (I reply'd) Perolla's actions are of too high a quality to need any commendations but what they carry in themselves, but were not my duty more prevalent with me than truth, I should perhaps aver that your comments can no more diminish their natural luster than mine can add unto it; but since you are pleas'd to place so right an esteem upon this Strangers services, and express as earnest a desire of knowing as of being grateful to him, I will no longer conceal him: 'Tis Perolla, Sir, That same Perolla, whose former obligations you have lessen'd but to increase the present; 'Tis he whose gallantry, were it capable of being supprest, had doubtless been so by your ingratitude; (Pardon me if dare say what you did act:) But he from your cruelty deduces arguments to convince you of his affe∣ction and friendship, by not declining your preservation, when dangers as great as your hatred threatned whosoever should attempt it: 'Tis then, that he with an unimitable virtue exposes his own life to redeem yours, which by a sad experiment he knew was the chiefest obstruction in his felicity. Give me leave Sir too, a little to repine that you could fancy any other could undertake and act so much for you; and certainly were not your judgment clouded with a prejudicated opinion of him, the gal∣lantry of the performance, and the modesty and humility of the Perfor∣mer, would have been a certainer information than my words that it was Perolla; in whose behalf I beg you to practice (now you know him) what you promis'd when you only knew his services; for all returns but that of your affection and friendship will be as short of his merit as both those will abundantly reward it. Blacius, when I had ended speaking, after having fetcht two or three turns about the room with an angry look, reply'd, I should have ••ooner known 'twas Perolla by the great

rate you set upon his services than by the services themselves; and if I plac'd a higher Character on them than they merited, 'twas only to draw a confession from you, which I thought nothing else could perform: My design has succeeded; and in those very expressions which you intended should create my affection for your lover, I perceive the continuation of yours to him, and in so high a disobedience to my commands, that that death I am freed from, turns to a misfortune, and forces me to tell you, if you persevere in this criminal passion, I shall embrace Hannibal's resent∣ment rather as a cure than a punishment. Alas Sir (I answer'd, exceedingly surpriz'd) Must then Perolla's saving your life, and my gratitude for it be look'd upon as Crimes? And must an obligation from an enemy, which should raise the greatness of it, turn it to an offence? Since these are the constructions you make of his actions, 'tis high time for him to despair: since 'tis as impossible for him not to offend you (if obligations be an of∣fence) as for you with justice to give his performances that name. If what he has done for me (said Blacius) be an obligation, from thence you may derive a proof of my affection to you, which had rather en∣dure the name of ungrateful, than by giving you away free my self from that aspersion. But do not proceed in this disputing against my re∣solutions, which may force me to hate what I desire to love. You are too just (I reply'd) to hate without a cause, and 'tis on that assurance I dare become Perolla's Advocate, since his fear of offending you makes him decline being his own: do not then, Sir, employ that breath he has pre∣serv'd to destroy him that gave it you; his service merits an esteem, if not a reward; and it may be, others will say you do as high an injustice in thus using your Deliverer, as he did that put you in a condition to need his help. To which Blacius told me, That Life which is now (I hope) out of Hannibal's power, and which you say I owe Perolla's Af∣fection to me, was rather an argument of his own to himself; he knew the justice of those resentments I had for his could not be silenc'd but by actions as great as those which created them, and that whilst they con∣tinu'd, he could no more obtain my permission of possessing you, than you without it; so that my deliverance being the best way to that end, he perform'd it, and thereby no more oblig'd me than a Passenger does the Commander of a Ship, by saving what could not perish without invol∣ving him in the common ruine, so that his being a friend to himself only made him a friend to me. Sir (I reply'd) he that sav'd your life once, and could not by that obligation suppress your hatred, had no reason, by a repetition of that favour, to expect a better return; so that his expe∣rience convincing him your aversion was not to be taken away, he might have sufffer'd your life to have been so by Hannibal, who had both the power and will to do it; especially, that being the onely obstacle to his desires, had not his affection to one of your family inclin'd him upon that score to love all of it; This gallantry shews so handsomly, that I hope 'twill invite yours to an imitation, especially too, since by the effects of it you receive a benefit whose greatness cannot be equall'd, but by that in∣justice which makes you endeavor his ruine that conferr'd it on you. He that by saving my life (said Blacius extremely mov'd) found in that acti∣on a gratitude so extraordinary as to suppress a revenge (where my power to perform it was not greater than the justice which invited me to it) might reasonably hope that by a succession of services of that nature I might in time be induc'd as well to silence my hatred as I had my re∣venge, so that what you attribute to my Enemies gallantry, might be

better ascrib'd to his reason and judgement: My death too had been so far from freeing all his obstructions, that it had but created greater, for I had so order'd it in my Will, that if you had married him, you should have broke those Tyes and Conjurations which had render'd you unworthy of his Bed; or if his Passion had attributed your want of duty to your Fa∣ther, to be a higher argument of your affection to your Lover, yet you should have brought him nothing but the bare Izadora; for apprehending by what you have done, what you might do, I had (upon so transcendent a violation of those commands, which I would have seal'd with my last breath) given to another all my estate, which I believe (whatever advantageous and partial opinion you have of your self) makes Perolla as much your Servant as your Beauty. If no one (I reply'd) had a greater value of me than I have of my self, Perolla would soon have as low an opinion of me, as you have of his Services; and truly when I consider the largeness of your Fortune, and the little Title I have to any perfections which are capable of inviting so transcendent a happiness as his Affection, I am apt enough to believe I derive that felicity from the first of those motives; but on the other side, when I reflect upon those sacred protestations he has made me, that his passion was created, and is nourish'd by my Beauty and Vertue and from no secondary causes, I am inclin'd to believe any thing, rather than that he dissembles; especially, since in not crediting his vows, I cannot injure him more than I do my own felicity. At this reply, Blacius could no longer suppress his Choler, but with Eyes and Looks, which had terrified me in a Cause, less just than I now defended, he told me, You are not then only contented to pre∣serve a criminal Flame in your Heart, but you must publish it too; and to raise your insolence to an inaccessional height, you voluntarily ac∣knowledge, that you find your contentment in that which divests me of mine; but since by your disobedience you will force me to use my pa∣ternal power, I will make you e'r long not only know, but practise your duty. Finishing these words, he went out of my Chamber, and left me in as great a trouble at his rigor, as he could resent for my constancy: I must confess, that my Affection made me say things which I should have condemn'd upon any other score, and which after my resentment was a little over, I endeavoured to wash away with Tears: But no passions of Love or Repentance were hardly more predominant in me, than those of Rage and Fury were in Hannibal, who could not reflect upon the in∣jury done his Authority and Revenge, by forcing a Prison in his Head-Quarters, and taking thence his capital Enemy, upon the Eve of the Execution, which Perolla had done by surprize, and by the assistance of a few resolute friends he had in Salapia, who were all disguis'd as well as he, without abandoning himself to an excess of choller, which made him utter things unworthy his Place and Reputation: neither for two days together could those which had most intimacy and power with him, ob∣tain of him to appear in publick, or so much as to take sufficient nou∣rishment to preserve Nature; nor had his despair been so soon vanquisht, had not his Officers engag'd themselves, not only to find out the Offen∣ders, but the Prisoner too, if he would publish a Proclamation, which might promise large Rewards to those which should effect either; upon which the Carthaginians set forth a Manifest of this Tenor.

HANNIBAL, General of the Carthaginians in EUROPE.

WEre not Ingratitude a crime of so high a quality, than nothing can be of a higher than to pardon it, that same clemency which in∣duced us heretofore, not only to forgive Blacius, but restore him to his Estate, might have now again extended it self to him: But our above∣specified Principle, and his unparallel'd Treachery, makes him so unfit for a repetition of Mercy, that 'twould lose that name, and turn to Injustice, were it conferr'd on him, who was not contented to be guilty himself, but hath so involv'd others in his offences, that he has (in having forc'd our Prisons by his Complices) as much violated the publique Iustice, as his private Engage∣ments. These great wrongs done to the Carthaginian Empire through me their Minister, are well merited, if endur'd; which to avoid, I hereby so∣lemnly protest before the gods, by the Glory of Carthage, and my dead Fa∣thers memory, That whatsoever Person shall reveal where the persidious Bla∣cius is conceal'd, or who were the Contrivers, Ca••sers, or Actors of his Li∣berty, shall have any one thing that the said party can desire, and we can grant, and receive, besides some such other mark of our favour, that all Men shall know, we are as much concern'd in rewarding of Fidelity, as in pu∣nishing the want of it.

I Know not whether the promise of so unlimited Rewards, or the Ju∣stice of the gods (who would not let Blacius enjoy that liberty he had been so unthankful for to the Bestower of it) was the cause of his discovery; but two days after he had relisht the blessing of Free∣dom, he lost it again by a Squadron of Soldiers, who violently breaking open the doors, went so directly to a secret Vault, where he had con∣ceal'd himself, that it manifested their search for him proceeded from their knowledge, and not from their suspitions; from thence they conveyed him bound in Irons (and with words as ill to be digested as their usage) to Hannibal's own Lodgings, where a Guard of barbarous Affricans new∣ly come from Carthage, were set over him, who no more understood the Roman Language, than what belong'd to Humanity. For Hannibal, you may (in some sort) guess at his joy by what his trouble had been; but for my part I was so drown'd in sorrow, that when you can imagine the highest operation of grief, I can truly affirm mine did make that good. And indeed, when I considered my unfortunate Father in the hands of those whose fury would not be quencht but with with his Bloud; and that Perolla's usage made me esteem it as high a sin to engage him in any further attempt for Blacius's relief, as my ignorance where he was, made it impossible to send to him; I found in my Judgement and Duty, such strong arguments for sorrow, that I had no way better merited the mis∣fortune, than not to have deplored it in the sublimest degree.

In the mean while the cruel Carthaginian, to avoid all accidents, and to hasten the satisfaction of his Revenge, caused my Father the next day, to be brought with ignominious cruelty, to a Scaffold he had erected in the Allarm-place, and as well to avoid those tumults which the Salapians affection to Blacius might raise, as to satiate his Eyes with his Enemies Bloud, he had raised another Scaffold near the first,

and there waited on by his Guards, be intended to become a Spectator of that execution, of which he had been the Judge. Whilst these things were performing in publique, an antient friend of Blacius's came to visit me, and to give me that consolation my duty and affection so abundant∣ly wanted. After some discourses of a nature fit for the subject, I was ve∣ry inquisitive, whether the Revealer of my Fathers retirement was not yet found out? To which he answered me, that though he had declin'd no ways imaginable for that discovery; yet his endeavours had been fruitless, but (he continued) though I cannot tell you the offender, yet I can (I am confident) shew you the cause of the offence, and there∣upon pull'd out the Copy of that Proclamation, I even now acquaint you wit. Though my grief were of a quality which hardly permitted my Eyes to do any thing but weep, yet (as the gods would have it) I stopped a while their employment, to read that fatal Proclamation, which as soon as I had ended, I reflected upon some words in it, that I thought might prove of great advantage to me, and immediately after, asked this charitable friend, whether he thought the execution were yet done? To which he answered, he was confident it was not, for just then he came from the place where it was to be performed (his antient friend∣ship rendring him uncapable of seeing such a Spectacle) where some of the assistants had told him, the usual Ceremonies that are practised in such Cases, would take up at least an hour, which was not yet half expir••d. I re∣ceived this assurance with exceeding joy, and immediately conjur'd him him to conduct me to the cruel Hannibal, who he had told me, was an assistant at Blacius Tragedy. The good old man would have disswaded me from seeing an object which would but augment my grief, but I begg'd that favour of him with such earnest words and expressions, that at last he yielded to me, but it was so long e're I could vanquish him, that what he designed for a proof of his care, had like to have produced a strange and contrary effect. For just as I came under the Scaffold, I perceived my poor Father preparing himself for the fatal stroak with a courage which render'd him unworthy of it; so sad a spectacle made me hasten to Hannibal's seat, where at last I came, and with a counte∣nance more suitable to my resentment than condition, I presented my self unto him, and told him, Sir, I beseech you, command a suspension of Blacius's death, till I have acquainted you with some things, that may perhaps induce you to pardon him. The Carthagineans, (who then con∣sider'd nothing but my Sex and motion) with a look as barbarous as his Countrey, reply'd, Woman, the offences of that Traytor are too tran∣scendent to expect a pardon for any thing thou canst reveal, thou mayst well therefore spare thy self a labour which will proveal together fruitless, Then turning about, he commanded some of his Guards to carry me down again. At that cruel order I flung my self at his Feet, and embra∣cing his Knees, I thus continued; I am (Sir) come to invoke that justice which has hitherto made you as famous as your success, and will not stir from this posture, till you assure me, I shall not be denyed it. Those few words I spoke so loud, and so distinctly, that most of those Salapians which were near the Scaffold, heard them, which putting them in hopes that it might be something that would conduce to Blacius advantage, (whom I told you they extreamly loved) they cryed out to Hannibal, Hear her, hear her, which voices (as is common in the croud) were seconded by those that neither understood the cause, nor the approvers of that mo∣tion. The Carthaginians finding the City so pressing and unanimous, for∣bad

his Guards to meddle with me, who were already beginning to force my Hold, and not only enjoyn'd the suspension of the execution, till I had done speaking, but told me, I might be as consident of his doing me right, as of Blacius's death, than which nothing the Oracles did tell, could be more certain.

Sir (I continu'd) you will soon find how great a confidence I have of your Justice, since my relyance on it, makes me offer my Life into your Power, who am the unfortunate Daughter of this Blacius, that it seems has offended you in such a degree, as nothing but his Bloud can be your reparation; in pursuance of which resolve you were pleas'd under sa∣cred Oaths, when his Prison was forc'd (and thereby your revenge fru∣strated) to publish, That whosoever would reveal unto you who were the Contrivers, Causers, or Actors of his liberty, should have granted any one thing the said party could ask that was in your power: this Procla∣mation which I here present you is my witness, and the assurance you are inviolate in your engagements, has brought me to discover unto you who is the offender that has so exceedingly transgrest your Laws; but before I disclose this secret, I must beg a reiteration of that assurance, which to induce you to with the less reluctancy, be pleas'd to receive mine, that the same minute you confirm your first engagement, I will put into your power the crimital person which procur'd my unfortunate Fa∣ther his short liberty, so that the same action which makes you satisfy your word, will give you the power to satisfy your revenge too. All those which could hear my request, gave their approbation to it by a loud shout, for they car'd not upon whose ruines they built Blacius's deliverance, and Hannibal, who was always as ambitious of Glory as of Revenge, re∣peated and confirm'd the Oaths and Promises of his Proclamation, which being finisht, I thus continued: Since by a generosity which I ever ex∣pected from so great a Prince, you have silenc'd all those doubts my own constant unhappiness, and not any suspitions of your Virtue, did create, I shall boldly acquaint you, that your justice receiv'd that affront from Izadora, and though my Sex exempted me from actions of that nature, yet by my Prayers and Letters to a young Roman Gentleman, I rais'd that power which cast you into so great disorders, and for the punish∣ment of which you have made such unlimited promises. Thus, Sir, I have satisfied my engagement, not only by acquainting you who committed the offence, but by putting the offender into your hands: And now I shall expect as punctual a performance from you. Then, as I was begin∣ning to make my request, the Carthaginian, who suspected by my reso∣lution, that it would be Blacius's Life (wherein he was not deceiv'd) sud∣denly started up, and with a furious look told me; If thou art so mad as to beg thy Fathers Life for this discovery, in expectation afterwards that thy Sex will induce me to pitty thee; know that thy Crime will make me pass by all considerations, and raise a fury which by all the gods, nothing but thy destruction will appease; this I acquaint thee with, that thou mayst owe thy death to thy wilfulness, and not to my resentments, which I tell thee once more will prove so severe, thou wilt soon repent thou e'r didst raise them; but if thou wilt yet decline that request, thy Sex and Relations will invite me to pardon what I know I ought to punish. Sir (I reply'd nothing terrify'd at these threatenings) I desire not to be ob∣lig'd to your Mercy, but your Justice, neither can I lose my life more gloriously than for him that gave it me: My duty in this case is most pre∣dominant, and I know nothing can make me more worthy of death, than

how to avoid it; therefore (Sir) I conjure you by those gods you have invok'd, by that Empire which derives its g••eate••t Glory from your Vir∣tue, and by that Father whose memory you 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to reverence, were it onely for giving the world so g••eat a 〈◊〉〈◊〉. At the end of these words, I heard a voice which stopt me from p••oceeding any farther, by saying, Hold, hold, Izadcra, be not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be gen••rous, not accuse your self of a fault, which if it be one, I (by your own 〈◊〉〈◊〉) am only guilty of it. This voice (which I too soon knew was Pcrolla's) made me turn about, where •• immediately saw my generous Friend breaking th••ough Hannibals Guards that would have stopt him (among whom he had staid awhile, where he had heard all that had past,) and ••linging himself ••t his Enemies feet, told him; Sir, You have bound your self by obligations too strong to leave me any suspition that you will not perform your en∣gagement to him that shall reveal who was Blacius's Deliverer; and there∣fore I shall make no scruple to acknowledge that it was I, and the reward that I expect for this discovery, is, that you will suppress all th••••e cruel thoughts you have taken up against the fair Izadora, who through an ex∣cess of duty condemns her self to free her Father. You that have been just, Sir, to your Enemies, will not now I hope be the contrary to your self, especially when the subject you are to employ your virtue on, me∣rits adoration sooner than Pardon, and whose only crime is her Chari∣ty. Instead then of so unfit a victim to appease your fury, I offer that Perolla, who had at Capua depriv'd you of life, if his Sword had prov'd the more fortunate, and had not his Fathers Tears and Dissimulation pre∣serv'd you: Who at Pettely rais'd his reputation by the destruction of 10000 Affricans; who at Cassilinum made you send Blanks where you had denyed any conditions; Who by the destroying of 25000 of Allies and Soldiers forc'd from you the Samnites, Lucanians, and Appulians; who took that Cassilinum by storm, which you only won by Famine: in a word, I present you that Perolla, who was not only content to offend you in all these particulars, but came even into your Head-Quarters, and in the Center of your Army, broke open your Prisons, kill'd your Guards, restor'd your Capital Enemy to his freedom, and was now come to have stopt the progress of your revenge upon him, by owning the action, and by tying you (unless you would violate your Faith) to give me his life for the reward of this discovery, which I had too effected, had not his generous Daughter by her own confession, necessitated me to imploy that Petition for her safety, which I had designed for her Fathers.

Gods! into what confusions did this resolute acknowledgement cast me into? That death which I was prepared to suffer, appeared far more sup∣portable than this action of Perolla's, for it reduced me either to imploy my request for my Fathers, and so lose my friends Life; or if I preserv'd Perolla's, I must lose Blacius's, and that which was an aggravation to this misery, was, that by what was done already, I was necessitated to survive the loss of one of them, unless I would prove my own executioner; Alas, how sad a conflict had I betwixt my Duty and my Affection? Na∣ture pleading for the one, and Gratitude for the other. What, (said I to my self) wilt thou destroy thy Father to save his Enemy? wilt thou not preserve that Life that gave thee thine? wilt thou satisfy thy debts with thy Fathers Bloud, and shall the tyes of Friendship be more preva∣lent than those of Nature? But on the other side, shall the name of Fa∣ther make thee act that which will render thee unworthy that relation? shall that breath which even now Perolla gave thee, be employed to save

anothers life by the ruine of his? Unfortunate Izadora! hast thou no way to perform thy duty but by a murther? and hast thou no no way to per∣form thy gratitude, but by a Paricide? must the satisfaction of thy gratitude be the ruine of thy Father? and must the satisfaction of thy duty be the loss of thy Friend? must to be grateful and ungrateful prove an equal crime? and must the paying of one debt, render thee uncapable of pay∣ing the other? I take the gods to witness that I would joyfully put an end to this fatal dispute but that of my life, and have embrac'd that fate with a satisfaction equal to that of Martyrs, who know their punish∣ment, is but the way unto their Glory: but the time was so pressing, that I was necessitated to spend what remained, not in complaints, but reso∣lutions, therefore I thus continu'd. Perolla came to preserve Blacius, though my unfortunate duty made him change his design: and that ge∣nerosity which once made my Father to esteem his life his misfortune, be∣cause his Enemy conferr'd it on him, though only by his courage, will make a repetition of that favour, create a higher trouble in him, when the purchase of his safety, is his Enemies voluntary death; his Virtue, doubtless, will make him decline an obligation, where what makes him receive it, deprives him of all power to express his resentments for it: 'Tis but just too, that that life which has so often preserv'd Blacius's, should now be preserv'd by his; Yes, yes Izadora, let Perolla find his safety from one of that Family, in which he hath hitherto found his misery; act now thy Fathers part, and upon the score of his Virtue perform that for Perolla, whose effects may demonstrate their cause, and let him find, now thou art in Blacius's room, that that cruelty thou didst condemn in him, thou wilt not practise for him, and in this one action show what thy Fa∣thers resentments should be, and what thine own are: Then when this debt is discharged, satisfy thy own as generously, and by ending thy life with his that gave it thee, convince him and the World, that as thou valu'st thy life short of thy duty, which shouldst thou any longer enjoy would bring that truth in question, and make that relish of self-interest which is of a contrary quality. But alas (I continued) how will Perolla resent this proceeding? he'll alledge, that what thou termest Gratitude, is Cruelty, that the way thou tak'st to save his life, is the certainst means to lose it, and that instead of repairing Blacius's injuries, thou art more injurious far than he. These, and a world of such, thy Friend will object against thee, to which thou hast no reply, but that thy Fate having invi∣roned thee with excess of miseries, thou electest those that to thy judge∣ment are the least, and that thou hadst rather dye by acting what may merit his esteem, than live in a contrary unhappiness. Whilst I was thus debating, and had fixt upon this resolution, Perolla was all the while conjuring Hannibal to observe his Promise, and to make him the object of his Cruelty, so he made me that of his Justice, and in order to this told the Carthaginians such reasons, that I apprehended nothing more than he would find his destruction in his Eloquence, and so raise his enemies fu∣ry, that he would sacrifice the violation of his Oaths and Faith to his re∣venge: In this fear I interrupted him from proceeding by addressing my self in these terms to the Carthaginian.

Sir, If I have been thus long silent, you will, I hope pardon it when you know, that a dispute betwixt Gratitude and Nature was the occasi∣on, in the end, the first has been victorious, but to make it so, I was ne∣cessitated to act my Fathers part, who I know is too generous to let Pe∣rolla suffer for him, when by his own sufferings he may hinder his, and

'twere too much wrong to the generosity of Perolla's action, not to let it instruct my Fathers to an imitation of it. These words too fully inform'd my friend of my intentions, to let him permit my proceedings any fur∣ther, which he hinder'd by leaving Hannibal, and by prostrating himself before me, where as soon as his disorder would permit him, he cry'd out, Ah Madam, do not, I beseech you, by so unjust a Victory, blemish your Virtue, nor make me so wretched, as to find my misery, in that which perhaps you intend as an argument of your Affection, to preserve your Fathers and your Life, nay your Fame too, are cause too glorious to deplore any effects which may proceed from them: do not then envy me a death, by which I shall always live, and by losing only an uncer∣tain Being, obtain an Eternal one. If I had not (I reply'd) taken up this resolution, that which you do to suppress, would have created it, and in this fresh proof of your Virtue, I find a greater invitaion to continue, than alter my intentions: Blacius would live more miserable with such a debt, than he can dye by paying it, and I cannot deplore his destiny which makes that Life (which even now was to be an oblation only to Hannibals fury) to prove a sacrifice to Gratitude. If (said Perolla) the payment of that Gratitude be addrest to me, I take all that's holy to wit∣ness, I shall find in the design only a larger, and more pleasing payment, than in the action: Alas Madam, consider too, I beseech you, what all Mankind will say of you, they will (doubtless) condemn that Virtue which has been hitherto their admiration, and that which you think will raise their esteem, will absolutely suppress it; besides, if you proceed in your design, 'twill be so far from hindering, that it will but hasten my death; do not then, I beseech you, force me through despair, to spill that bloud, which now may be shed for a Subject that out-weighs the loss. I shall find (I reply'd) in your silence, a stronger inducement to obey you, than in your words, espicially if they be of this nature, and for your apprehension of my prejudicing in this action, that little Virtue I possess, I have fixt upon a resolve, shall still preserve, if not increase it, and I have so order'd all things, that your last Declaration is now my only trouble, which forces me to make use of that power you have so often assur'd me I have over you, to beg, and if that be not sufficient to com∣mand you by our passions, which have been as pure as great, and by all other conjurations that are most powerful, whatsoever happens to me, use no violence upon your self, nor leave this life till the gods do call you to a better; this I implore with the more earnestness, because po∣sterity shall judge of your love by your obedience. Then without stay∣ing for his answer, (whose quality I read in his amazement) I went to Hannibal, and having laid open all the most pressing terms I could com∣pose to illustrate the unworthiness of a violated engagemeut, I conjur'd him as a recompence of what I had reveal'd, to give Perolla his life and liberty; who having followed me, and hearing my request, detesting to derive his safety from the cause he esteem'd in me, so unnatural, thus spoke to the Carthaginian. By a true confession (Sir) how Blacius was reliev∣ed, I am confident you find no other had a hand in it but I, at least Iza∣dora had not, who was so far from either contriving or knowing it, that when I presented him to her she was weeping him for dead, and admir'd as much at his deliverance as he himself did. As for that Letter she al∣leadges, which was the cause of his Liberty, I protest by all the gods, it commanded me only to make use of the Consuls favour for Blacius's redemption, by offering some Lybian prisoners, or for a suspension of his

death, by threatening all those he had to follow his destiny, so that she was no more the cause then the effect of her Fathers freedom, neither can she pretend any title to the benefit of your Proclamation, by disco∣vering who was the Actor, for when I brought Blacius to her, I was so co∣vered with Armor, that she could not possibly know me, and as an ar∣gument of this truth, she call'd me Roman, when as yet I never saw Rome and had my birth in this City; therefore (Sir) none but I has any inte∣rest in your manifest, which obliges you no less to preserve inviolate your vows and promises, than to punish those which have offended you. Ah Sir (said I, flinging my self at his feet) I hope you are too judicious not to distinguish betwixt an accusation which proceeds from Generosity, and one which proceeds from guilt, and consequently not to impute this of Perolla's, to one of the first quality, but yet, lest you should want light to see so much Virtue, I beseech you reflect upon whose Son he is, and you will find in his extraction, cause to invite him, rather to destroy Blacius by the hazard of his own life, than to save him by a certain loss of it. Yes (Sir) I blush in his behalf to acknowledge that the little Beau∣ty and Virtue which the gods have given me, converted his inclinations, and made him cherish what he would otherwise have destroyed, so that I am apparently the cause of that freedom, which created your resent∣ments: besides, I have a title to my request, discovering who was the Actor; For as to that allegation, that I was weeping my Fathers loss, when he presented him to me, I may truly answer, my affection had as large a share in those Tears, as my Duty; for I could not reflect upon Bla∣cius danger and Perolla's courage, but it was impossible to retain them, and though indeed, at his coming into my Chamber, he was covered with Arms and Bloud, yet his Gallantry discover'd what his unkind Ar∣mor would have conceal'd, and in his actions I found as great an assu∣rance that it was Perolla, as I could have had in seeing his Face; so that my calling him Roman, proceeded not from my ignorance but fears; for I was informed after my Fathers rescue, such strict Guards were plac'd about the City, that I apprehended my generous friend was not gotten out of it, so that if by any misfortune he fell into your power, I would not (by precisely acquainting you who he was) have given you so great an ac∣cession to that hatred you had already contracted for him; besides, I might aptly enough, call him a Roman, his inclinations and actions having always been for that Empire. Thus (Sir) have I clearly demonstrated the in∣terest I have in your engagement, which gives me the confidence to con∣jure you by these Tears, and by that word which you have hitherto so religiously observed, give Perolla that Life and Liberty, he would so me∣ritoriously have lost, which is the Petition I humbly make for my disco∣very: neither can you satisfy that request he has already made you, with∣out yielding to mine too; for that life he has begg'd, is so united to his, that it cannot admit of a different Fate. To which Hannibal reply'd, Madam, Perolla may with reason be credited, since 'tis not likely he would disclaim a Truth which would save his life; and therefore as I have been just to him in granting his desires for you; so permit me now to be just to my self, by sacrificing an offender, who is not only contented to be so, but glories in it, and out-braves my Justice. Yes Sir (said Perolla) since you have saved the fair Izadora: inflict on me all the torments your Revenge and Fury can inspire you with, and I will embrace them with more joy than they are imposed, nay, commend that justice which by my sufferings, exempts the perfectest creature from induring any. This

generous reply so incen'sd the barbarous Hannibal; that he commanded his Guards to bind Perolla, and carry him to receive a death; whose torments might be as great as his crime. The Guards at those barbarous Orders advanc'd to seize upon Perolla, who perceiving their intentions, went half way to meet them, and holding out his Arms, told them. Here, here Soldiers, obey your General; and bind up those Arms which when they were at liberty were as much his fear, as now they are his satis∣faction, and which yet, (were I disposed to ••ell my life) might make him tremble in the midst of you; but I will not impose that in which I find my Glory. Those words he spoke with so furious a look, that though unarmed, and invironed with his Enemies, yet it struck such a damp into their Hearts, that their trembling was the greatest proof they were alive. But Perolla instantly disarming himself of all his fury, with an Humility great as my grief, kneel'd at my feet and told me, The gods shall be my witness (Madam) that the onely thing which made me cherish my life, was out of a hope that it might prove serviceable to you, and now it is so fortunate, not only to save you, but pardon me if I say so, to keep you too from a stain which might blemish all your other Virtues, I re∣sign it with more joy than I kept it; but yet I must confess, when I re∣flect upon our separation, I find a strong aversion to it, and am forc'd to run for my Consolation to the necessary causes of it. Must then (I re∣ply'd, interrupting him with a shower of Tears) must then the une∣quall'd Perolla have so hard a fate, that he finds his Consolation in the destruction of my Felicity? unjust Heaven! who will ever adore friend∣ship, when it turns to be the ruine of him that possest it in the highest per∣fection. Ah Madam, said he, call me rather your Votary than your Friend, and then you need not fear this President will prejudice Poste∣rity, for Men sooner adore, than decline a Deity, by the example of a Martyrdom. But Madam, you may convert my trouble into my felicity, by permitting this voluntary death to preserve me alive in your esteem, which will be a nobler existence, and render me an object fitter for your Joy than Tears. You shall not only have my esteem (I reply'd) but my company, since 'tis a greater misery to out-live the loss of so much Virtue, than to dye with it. But Sir (said Izadora, speaking to Spartacus) per∣haps I make the relation only of these accidents as tedious and troublesom to you, as they themselves were to us: but I will repair that fault, by contracting the sequel of our Adventures. To which my Prince reply'd, Madam, if I am in any trouble, it only proceeds from sympathizing in those disasters you were fallen into, and the difficulties I find in your be∣ing delivered out of them, of which I am so impatient, and concern'd, that I shall beg you henceforward to believe, that as long as you prose∣cute your Story, you will as much oblige me, as by interrupting it you will do the contrary. Izadora, with an action which testified her ac∣knowledgement, thus continued her Relation. I will obey you, Sir, and it may be in my following discourse, you will find that our perplexities were cur'd by as strange an accident, as that which created them: For Hannibal all this while continu'd in a deep silence, which I attributed to his being a Judge, rather than a Lover; but the gods, who magnify their power by producing great Effects from small Causes, made us find in this poor Beauty, the redress of those disorders which it had occasioned; for at the first, when I presented my self unto the Carthaginian, I was (as my condition required) all vail'd, and continu'd so, till Perolla's cruel Gallan∣try forc'd me to uncover my Face, in which Hannibal fancy'd as many

charms as it wanted, and by the help of his own imagination, so abun∣dantly supply'd the unkindness of nature to me, that in his wounds we found our remedy. And truly, for it to vanquish any Heart was strange, but to captivate Hannibal's, who hated our Sex as much as he did the Ro∣mans, and to divest him too, of his fury and revenge, appear'd so great a Miracle, that had not some visible effects been the witness of that Truth, I had found in my imperfections, too many Arguments to have doubted it; and without question, 'twas such Passion as his, that made Love be painted blind; but many that stood by, and were not so ingaged as I was, observ'd at first, that which I no way suspected or perceiv'd, till Hannibal, who found Perolla was as much his Rival in Love as in Glory, after having laid down all those motives he esteemed most prevalent to in∣duce me rather to employ my request for my Father, than my Friend, per∣ceiving me so unshaken in my resolves, and so pressing in my Tears, and Prayers, and guessing at my disposition by his own, which hardened it self by opposition, at last when the Guards were carrying away the gene∣rous Perolla, he told me; Madam, If I have labour'd to prove you had no Title to my Proclamation, 'twas only to shew you, that you had a power over me from yourself, greater than you can derive from thence, and that you may command upon the score of your Beauty, that which you only beg by virtue of my manifest. Alas Sir (I reply'd) I am too well acquainted with this unfortunate Beauty, to believe it can have so high an influence on so great a Conqueror, pardon me then, if I dare tell you, I shall be diffident of its power, unless I am convinc'd of it by a de∣monstration? If you suspect (said he) that which carries its authority with it, and if you can doubt that Truth which Hannibal's Captivity does witness; command me any other tryal, and you shall find in my obe∣dience, how great a wrong you have done the fair Izadora: So high a ci∣vility, I answered, merits a proportionate return, and therefore I shall employ that power you give me, for your own advantage, and only beg you to be just unto your vows, by giving Perolla his life, Madam, (said Hannibal) though in saving him I shall preserve (by what I have observed) as great an opposer of my Felicity, as of my Conquests: and thereby too, create as many Enemies as Soldiers in my Army, yet I will observe your Orders. Yes Madam, I give Perolla's life to your com∣mands, and I give you Blacius's without them, who for having bestowed so great a perfection on the World, merits rather my esteem than revenge. My zeal to your service, stays not in that dull method of only obeying what you command, it lays hold on that which it thinks is your Will without the revealing it. I could not have the patience to let him pro∣ceed, his Words and Actions were too generous to delay my acknow∣ledgements for them, which I exprest, prostrate at his feet, in the most moving and humble manner I was capable of. I will not, Sir, said Izadora, trouble you with the repetition of them, though they were so satisfacto∣ry to him, to whom they were addrest, that as an acknowledgement of it, he went immediately himself, unbound both Blacius and Perolla, and presented them to me, with an humility so far beyond his practise, that the standers by admir'd as much, as I was pleas'd at it. But to obscure this joy, some of Pacuvius's friends seeing the danger his generous Son had been in, went to his House to inform him of it, (for he, out of gallantry, would not be present at his Enemies death, though he had Hannibal's example to authorize that action.) As soon as he had notice of it, he went with so great haste to the place of Execution that those which saw it,

thought that his affection and not his hatred was the cause of it. The croud about the Scaffold was so great, that it was with much difficulty and with an often repeating of his name (to which all paid a deep re∣spect) that he got at last to Hannibal, and it was just at that instant, that the Carthaginian had unbound Perolla, and given him to me. Pacuvius was suddenly informed of all that happened, which every one assured them∣selves, would render him a large sharer in the general joy: but alas he soon put them out of that belief by thus speaking to Hannibal. I were (Sir) unworthy the friendship of so great a Conqueror did I value any relati∣on above it; 'tis upon that principle that I have detested Perolla, who hates as much your Person as your Glory, and if I hitherto conceal'd that horrid attempt against you, which he himself has now publisht, 'twas not Because he was my Son, but out of a belief that I might convert him: for I knew, a courage which was capable in so green an age to attempt so bold and high a design, which was more advantageous to you to be gained, than destroyed; but since that valour, the gods have given him, has been imployed to ruine what it should have advanc'd, I am come to implore your justice against one who is as much an Enemy to nature, as to Carthage; punish him for intending your destruction, in a place where not to have sacrific'd himself for you, had been as great a sin. Yes (Sir) punish him for designing your death, and punish me in him, not onely for concealing, but likewise for not revenging it, and let one execution repair both our crimes; you see, generous H••nnibal, how I contemn my own interest, when yours comes in competition with it, which I imbrace with such a concern, that I had rather extinguish my Family, than continue it, by leaving so great a stain upon your Justice, and danger to your person, as the saving of Perolla will amount unto. Besides Sir, shall that courage, which hitherto found nothing so easie as to conquer, leave the blemish behind it of having been vanquisht by the eyes only of one of our enemies? shall the Romans derive their Triumph from a Sex which never merited higher than your pitty? 〈◊〉〈◊〉 such a plead∣ing Desire as Revenge, and such a Virtue as Justice be supprest by an un∣worthy passion, which like madness, none believe they ever were possest with when they'r cur'd of it? Let not (Sir) I beseech you the cause of your disorders be worse than the effects, but by a generous Conquest over your self, shew you are capable to vanquish all obstacles, and let your enemies in that very action which they esteemed would prove your shame, find an argument that you are invincible, so he that can overcome H••n∣nibal, cannot but be thought to do the like to Rome, and all the World. The Carthaginian, who knew no other cause of Pacuvius's hatred to his Son, than what he had alledged, not only upon that account excus'd his passion, and expressions, but replyed, had I not already given Perolla's life to the fair Izadora's commands, I now had bestowed it on Pacuius's generosity, and find in what he alledges more cause to suppress, than to creat my Revenge; He that could sacrifice the hopes of his posterity for my interest, had too much misplac'd his friendship, if for a return to it I would not silence a Revenge, especially when the acting it will prove the destruction of so generous a Family, in which my misfortune is the onely fault of any one of it; for Perolla wants not Virtue, but I the felici∣ty to merit it, and though (he continued with a smile) you upbraid me with being vanquisht; yet I cannot but acknowledge I am more pleased in this defeat, than with all my former victories; I have too, this satis∣faction, that I was never conquered but by a Sex which the gods them∣selves

could not resist, who, if they can, for their subjection, produce thus much beauty, they carry their justification in the cause of their fault, (if it be one) so that I commit none unless it be one to imitate those we adore. I will not particularize all the dispute betwixt them, since it serves but to acquaint you, that Hannibal remained unshaken in what he had done, and then came to me, and told me; I should Madam, with the lives of Blacius and Perolla, have given you too their liberties, were it not that the grant of the first of these has been too great an exasperati∣on to my Army, to increase it at the same time by the last: I will there∣fore hope for your pardon, if I obey you but by degrees, since other∣wise I might hazard the losing of a power which is not so dear to me up∣on any score, as out of a confidence it may serve you; yet still for your sake, they shall have no other Prisons but their Lodgings, and as soon as I have fashioned my Officers to approve of their liberty, I shall restore it to them with as much joy as I have lost my own. Though this hard Declaration (however moderated both by reasons and civilities) did extreamly perplex me, yet I only begg'd him to shorten their sufferings as much as might be, and to perfect what he had so generously begun, for I durst not be too earnest on so tender a subject, lest it might create his suspitions, that my love as much as duty occasioned my solicitations. 'Twas in this sort, (continued Izadora) that we were preserved, and truly when you consider all the accidents of this Adventure, you will acknowledge it to be a strange one: For that life I came to sacrifice to preserve Blacius's had been preserved by the sacrificing of his, and where I thought to have found my death, I found my safety, but by a way which made it odious to me: Perolla too, who came with the same design, found the same fate, and that sympathy, which till then we both gloried in, in that occa∣sion was converted to our misfortune: what we singly might have effected, we joyntly destroyed; and my Father by having more friends than one, found he had never a one, and which was more intricate, we both came to lose our selves to save him, and we both saved our selves to lose him, and yet we ruine our selves all three, for Perolla by begging my life and I his, we leave Blacius to the execution, which made me resolve having so satisfied my gratitude, to dye with my Father, as a vindication of my duty, and as my generous friend has often since vowed unto me, he was determined to have born me company: On the other side, Hannibal to be more certain of his revenge, publishes a-Proclamation which debars him of it, and to end this miraculous day with a greater wonder than any which had happened in it, Izadora's Beauty, by ingendring as great a passion in the Carthaginians, as he had till then a detestation for our Sex, dissolves all our fears, and makes us return in triumph, where we thought never to have returned again. For Hannibal with all his Guards, and with the acclamations of an in∣finite confluence of people accompanied me to my Fathers House. But alas (Sir) as soon as Blacius was informed how I had declined his de∣liverance to purchase Perolla's, and knowing what I had done, but not what I had resolved to do, he contracted so violent a••••atred against me, that doubtless I had in the effects of it, found my ruine, had not the apprehension of offending Hannibal silenc'd his fury, who every day gave me such fresh and high proofs of his passion, that had my felicity depended on his affection, I had been then as happy, as since I have been miserable. But in that which most of my Sex would have glo∣ried, I found my Affliction, for I had given too visible proofs of my

affection to Perolla to doubt the Carthaginean was ignorant of it, and consequently, I left my Fathers unlikelihood of liberty in the loss of his Rivals, whose actions too soon inform'd me, that his denying to give me Perolla's freedom, proceeded more from his jealousie than any apprehen∣sion of distasting his Army, over which he had so great an Ascendent, that though it were compos'd of sundry Nations, and that they often en∣dur'd miseries as great as their succesles, yet they never mutiny'd, but thought their sufferings too meritoriously recompenc'd, if in them their General might find his Glory, But Sir (continu'd the fair Izadora) to satis∣fie my engagement and perhaps you in it, I will pass over all those addresses which Hannibal made me, and only inform you, his Passion grew to such a height, that he declin'd the Conquest of the World to conquer the unfortu∣nate Izadora; and that Glory which he had hitherto so exceedingly ador'd, he now as much undervalu'd, delivering up the conduct of all Martial Affairs unto the generous Maherbal; and those Days and Nights which he esteem'd misemploy'd, if not projecting some new Conquest, visiting and regulating his Troops, provoking and improving their natural fierce∣ness by Orations, and in performing all the functions of an expert Gene∣ral, he now had the same opinion of, if not spent at my feet; in which dejected posture he often vow'd he took more satisfaction than in his for∣mer Triumphs. But for my particular, I may justly profess, if I deriv'd any contentment from his expressions and submissions, 'twas only in see∣ing by so strong an experiment, that my constancy was immoveable; I say, so strong an experiment, for Hannibal was a Prince capable to infuse a flame into the coldest heart; for he had a look so spiritual and full of viva∣city, that no effeminate Beauty was comparable to it; his person and shape were nothing dissonant to his Face (which had not then receiv'd the blemish of being depriv'd of that Eye which soon after he lost in the Ma∣rishes of Ancona) his fashion was majestick and without constraint, and he was endu'd with so singular an Eloquence, that you would have thought him an Athenian sooner than an Affrican, and rather bred up in those famous Schools than in a barbarous Camp. And though Hannibal him∣self when he saw his fortune was expir'd, did alledge in open Senate when he pull'd down Gisgo out of the Pulpit of Orations for enveighing against a Peace then offer'd them by Scipio (whose succeeding Conquests gave him the sir-name of Affrican) that he never knew any way but force to suppress Offenders, yet in a subsequent Speech he unfolded such pregnant arguments in so transcending expressions and method, that the Senate soon perceiv'd he wrong'd his Eloquence to excuse his Passion: His Fortune also was proportionate to his other qualities, being, at four and twenty years old after the death of Amilcar and Asdrubal his Father and Uncle elected: General by the unanimous concurrence both of the S••nate and Army: His Conquests too were as early as his preferment, and he never apprehended a defeat, for his Victories had always so little of Fortune in them, that they could hardly proveinconstant. But I fear (said Iza∣dora) that by my confidence of undertaking to give you this Character, I give you an ill one of him: I will therefore conclude, that he had no fault but an unconfin'd ambition, which made him embrace any means that conduc'd to his desires, and to conquer whatsoever oppos'd him, he never scrupl'd to sacrifice his virtue to his ends. This truly makes me believe, 'twas more upon the score of his wilfulness than his judgement that he persever'd in his passion for me. But after a long time in both our computations, he for his sufferings (as he term'd them) and I for his

importunities, he came one evening to my Chamber as I had newly done reading a Letter of Perolla's, which contained such passionate expression for our cruel separation, that they infus'd into me a grief equal to his that writ them; the impression thereof was so evident at his coming in, that he soon perceiv'd it, and after a melancholly silence, to shew the interest he had in my sadness, he at last begg'd me to pardon him if he presum'd to en∣quire the cause of it. You may easily Sir (I reply'd) find it out, when you remember that Blacius is yet a prisoner. If that (he answer'd) be the occasion, I shall find my satisfaction in your disorders, having power to redress them; and to confirm you in this truth, from this instant I declare him free: But Madam (he continu'd) interrupting that return I was about to make him for so transcendent an obligation) may not I fear your Love has as great a share in your melancholly as your Duty? That friendship (I reply'd) which I pay Perolla, is too pure to be deny'd, and he has done so many things for the preservation of him to whom I owe my duty, that without an offence to it, I may give him (as an acknowledgement) a share in my sadness. Call you that Madam (said Hannibal) but an acknow∣ledgement, which made you on the Scaffold prefer his life before your Fathers? I did not (I reply'd) prefer him, but Gratitude before my Father. Ah Madam (he answer'd) take heed what you say, for if you so much undervalue yourself, as to believe any services can deserve your Gratitude; you will perhaps give me a title to that by Justice, which I never could expect but from your Mercy: For Perolla when he sav'd Bla∣cius the first time, knew not who he was, and the second time did it to obey his Mistris, and offend his Enemy; But I not only knew, that in preserving him I preserv'd my mortall'st Enemy; and did it without any inducement, except a belief that it might be pleasing to you, but also sav'd that Perolla too, for whom you would have sacrific'd not only your Father, but your self, and by which I found I cherisht my own destruction: but my obe∣dience was too perfect to stand upon Reason, or if it did, it found no∣thing which more deserv'd that name than to obey you, Yes Madam, I consider'd my destruction too glorious to deplore it, if thereby I might settle your Contentment: Judge then (fair Izadora) if I have not cause to say, that there is some desparity between our Services, and whether I may not upon that belief expect, that you will at least commiserate the captivity of my Mind as much as of his Body, who certainly is un∣worthy his felicity, if he can find room to entertain a grief, having the highest preservative from it, the blessing of your affection Sir (I re∣ply'd) those obligations you have conferr'd on me are of so transcen∣dent a nature, that to think to define, is to injure them; and if they have any defect, it proceeds only from their greatness, which by a necessity of gratitude casts me into as high a misery as they took me out of: Yes, generous Hanniball, I can truly say, that when I reflect upon your obli∣gations, and find not only a want of power, but of hope to make them of proportionate return, I am struck with a melancholly equal to the joy I resented when you conferr'd them on me; and perhaps I should not lye if I profest that these thoughts are as large a cause of my sadness as any other. Would to the Gods Madam (said he) that your will to oblige me were but equal to your power, I could soon then exchange my fears for joys, in very contemplation whereof I quickly lose my self: Yes, fair Izadora, those that gave you the power to command, have given you too the power to reward, and I find should in an Hymeneal Crown an bundant recompence for my services and sufferings; this union should

give the World Peace, or you the World, which is a far easier Conquest than that of Izadora, whom I durst promise to make Em∣press of that by Arms, which by virtue she has so just a title to; for if only if only to obey the Carthagineans and to satisfie my own inclinati•• I have already so far proceeded, she cannot doubt but to justifie her choice, and merit the glorious title of her Souldier, I would perform miracles almost as great as the cause of them. Though the words of this Declaration were very confident, yet the Declaration it self was not, for Hannibal, maugre his high Courage, was all the while it lasted as pale as guilt, and made it with so great a trembling and constraint, that he had as much of my pity, as of my anger; but after a little si∣lence, which rather shew'd my resentment than irresolution, I told him, My apprehensions of being ungrateful, were now I perceive too well grounded, for that you do me the honour to mention, is not in my power to grant; I know this confession to a Prince less generous, might produce a contrary effect than I am confident 'twill in you, from whom I have recei∣v'd such memorable obligations, hat I had rather have your disesteem by ac∣knowledging a Truth, than continue your favour by a dissimulation which would render me unworthy of it: That Heart which is below the great Hannibal, is so given to another, that were it revocable, 'twere upon that score, if not on any other, unfit for your acceptance; for I must be un∣constant to be kind, and I know you have a greater Passion for Virtue than for Beauty. Alas Madam (he eply'd) fetching a deep sigh) Why did you make such haste to give your self away, knowing the influence of your Eyes, which would create as many Servants as Beholders? Why did you prove unjust to one of them, to be the like to all the rest? for to give all to the happy Perolla is as great an injustice in one extream, as to reserve none for the residue of your Adorers is in the other. Sir (said I) you may easily perceive the great distinction I place between your and Perolla's actions, for by undertaking to reward his, I shew at how low a rate I value them; and by acknowledging that the impossibility of my satisfying what I owe you, is as great as my desires to pay it; I ac∣quaint you with the largeness of my resentments, and do perhaps in my very ingratitude it self in some degree prove grateful. Ah Madam (he answer'd) do not lessen your power to the increase of your cruelty; nor render my services uncapable of reward, by esteeming them above any: No, fair Izadora, let me not find my ruine in that which was my duty, and shall be my ambition, let not my performances like bubbles encrease to nothing. But at last Hannibal (who perceiv'd that his replies did ra∣ther confirm than lessen my constancy, and that he had unfortunately ta∣ken a time which my melancholly made unfit for his addresses) told me; I should be too partial to my self, Madam, did I expect to suppress one flame in you, and create another any way but by perseverance; I will therefore no more importune you with my Passion, nor make use of any other Orators than my services and sufferings; neither shall I despair, but by their help to vanquish your disdain, for I find in my very fear an ample cause of hope, since the impressions of nature are as firm as those of our own acquisition, and Perolla by his services and glory having vanquisht your aversion to his blood, it gives me a confidence by the same ways to pro∣duce as high effects, the disproportion being at worst but equally great. I will go then Madam, and peform things of such Virtue, that you shall be as unjust as I am miserable if you decline my Passion, and the world shall see, if Perolla exceeds me in any thing 'tis in happiness not in merit.

Then without staying for any reply, he saluted me with an humility as great as he would have perswaded me his Passion was, and went directly to his own house, where immediately he gave orders to have the next morning his Army ready to move, for he would act some exploit, which should abundantly repair his unaccustomed idleness. This promise gave the generous Maherbal as high a contentment as the Effects of it the con∣trary to the Romans; but after he had distributed those orders which were necessary for hasting his march, he began to reflect upon the impos∣sibility of success in his passion, as long as I had so just and advantageous an opinion of Perolla; he therefore fancied, that if he could but create any suspitions in him of my con••tancy, it might furnish him with a means to destroy his, whose perfections he esteem'd its fault, because it was his own misfortune. But after he had projected a Million of ways to ac∣complish this design, he seem'd none so probable as by corrupting Oristes, a Salapian of quality, in whose house Perolla was a Prisoner, and who by his exceeding civility, and the interest he took in all his troubles, had gotten a great share in my generous Friend.

This Oristes, Hannibal sent for that Night, and having brought him in∣to his Cabinet, disclosed to him there his condition and desires, but in such pressing words and actions, that he easily perceiv'd how infinitely the Carthaginean was concern'd in the accomplishing of them; The Salapi∣an, who had some weak principles of virtue, did a long time resist both Han∣nibal's prayers and rewards; yet in the end, that little generosity he had shew'd, serv'd but to aggravate his offence, for he was vanquisht, and evidenc'd thereby he knew his duty, but would not practise it, for he promis'd the Carthaginean not only to undertake, but succeed in the de∣sign; which fill'd him with so much satisfaction, that the effect of it were visible next morning when he past under my Window: for out of gal∣lantry he made his Army march through Salapia, and in a military civili∣ty saluted me with all those victorious Ensigns, which never before or since pay'd that homage to any but their General; and because those trium∣phant Troops appeared that day by his expresscommands in all their mag∣nificence, I shall not think it impertinent to mention their orders and num∣bers, which though it be a thing out of my Sex's element, yet I took so particular notice of it then, that I am confident I shall in my relation abuse nothing but your patience. The first division consisted of 8000 Numidian Horse, led by the gallant Maherbal, whose Men was as full of virtue as courage, and whose actions sufficiently justified their Phisiog∣nomy: These Troops methought relisht something of their Commander, and were generally so well Armed and Horst, that they seem'd rather go∣ing to a Triumph than a Battel. After these Hannibal appeared environ'd by a thousand young Carthagineans, which he had elected for his Guards, and followed by 4000 Foot, (all Affricans.) I must do him the right to acknowledge, that he had so noble a fierceness in his Armour, that though I had never seen him I should yet have taken him for the Gene∣ral; and certainly he was no friend to his good Meene, when he shew'd himself out of an Army. These Affricans resigned their places to Three and thirty great Elephants (all that then were left) which had towers of Wood upon their Backs, and so not onely carried but fortified their Riders. After these follow'd 4000 Mules and Horses, the most of them loaden with so many several Engines of Battery, that I admir'd as much at the wickedness as at the ingenuity of Men, which could find such several ways to destroy one another. These were no sooner past

but their appear'd 10000 Guiles, 6000 Lygurians, and 4000 Grecians, all lead by Commanders of their own Nations, and fighting under Carthaginean Colours, more for Hannibal's Fame than his pay; These Squadrons had so warlike and haughty a march, that it shew'd how eager and ambitious they were of Battel. The last divisions consisted of 8000 Horse, 4000 of which were Men at Arms, and all Gaules, led by the valiant Britogentrix, and the other 4000 were Iberians, under the com∣mands of Mircal and Barmocal, who brought up the Rear of this great Army, which was compos'd almost of all Nations but those it was going to conquer. I must confess, this sight made me excuse that haughtiness of which Hannibal was esteem'd guilty, for who could have been so much a Philosopher, as not to be proud of having so many thousand gallant Men ready to sacrifice themselves at his commnad? but my admiration as it was not greater than my fear for the Romans, and that reflection at last lead me to a joy which I shall not scruple to reveal, since if it pro∣ceeded from a want of courage, it did not from a want of love: 'Twas Sir (Izadora continu'd) occasioned at Perolla's being a Prisoner; for I could not consider his valor and the endless subjects it was to be employ∣ed against, but I found my satisfaction in that which had been my trou∣ble, and was more pleased that Hannibal had deny'd me his liberty than I should have been in his obedience; for I could no more deplore my ge∣nerous Friends sufferings, since it procur'd his safety, than I could any mans condition who took Physick but to be well. I must not omit to tell you, that every common Soldier of this vast Body carry'd a branch of Lawrel, their confidence being so great, that they wore the reward of victory before they obtain'd it. 'Twas with this Army that Hannibal march'd first to Tarentum, where though he found a vigorous resistance, yet the valor of the Defendants serv'd only to set off his own the better, for he carry'd it by storm, and in that action perform'd so much of the Sol∣dier as well as of the General, that he deriv'd his success as much from his courage as his conduct. I know (continu'd Izadora) the Romans affirm that Nico and Philomenes betray'd that great City to him, but I know too, that both of them being kill'd not long after in the be∣sieging of Capua, they sealed their innocency with their last breath, and vow'd that the Carthaginean civility in curing these wounds he had re∣ceived in being made their Prisoners, and the Romans ingratitude in terming their misfortune their treachery, made them in revenge aban∣don the Eagles, and serve under Hannibal's Ensigns, who though he had taken the Town, yet the Castle which stood upon the point of the Har∣bor did resolutely defend it self: and well it might, for the Carthagi∣ginean having no Ships to hinder their relief, every Easterly Wind the Grecians supply'd it with Men and Victuals; but at last, when all Hannibal's Engineers could not find a way to block it up, he himself did; for having taken good store of Gallies, in the Key of Tarentum, and not being able by Sea to bring them out of Harbor, because the Castle com∣manded all the streights and passages, he caus'd the Gallies with an admirable celerity and art to be put upon Carts, and so carried them by Land into the Sea, and in that miraculous manner besieged them round, which the Romans discerning, not long after yielded. I have told you (said Izadora) this particular, since it never had a president, or an imi∣tation, and because it dejected the Senate more than the loss of a Bat∣tel, by finding they had to deal with an Enemy whose industry per∣verted the very order of nature, making one Element bear the burthen

and do the office of another. From thence he went into Lucania, where i•• a bloody of Battel, he defeated Marcus Centineus, who publishing aloud, that he loved the Senate and his Honour too well to bring them news that his Army was lost, resolutely thrusting himself into the midst of the Car∣thaginians, where he found upon the points of a thousand Swords the cure of that days misfortune. From this fatal Field, he carried his victorious Troops into Apulia, where by a stratagem too intricate and te∣dious to be related he reduc'd Praetor Fabius's Army, from Twenty to Two thousand: But to qualifie these high successes he receiv'd advertise∣ment that both the Consuls were set down before Capua, and by the cele∣rity of their approaches, had already so straitned it, that unless he brought the place an immediate relief, it would be past any. These pressing Letters made him carry the War into Campania, where after he had a little refresh'd himself, he offer'd the Consuls Battel, who as readily accepted it, for the Roman Empire was then in too desperate a sickness to try a desperate Cure. That day much of those fertile Plains were moystned with Blood; and though Hannibal perfor••'d all the parts of an excel∣lent General, and of a valiant Soldier, yet it was darkness and not victo∣ry which ended the dispute. The next morning as soon as it was light, Hannibal again drew his Army in Battalia, but the Consuls, who had not (by the precedent days loss) Men enough to keep the Field and Trenchestoo, contented themselves to continue in the latter; so that thereby they made his fortune the more admirable; for he was Conqueror without fighting, because he won the Battel the day after it was fought. But after he had by many attempts endeavor'd to relieve his Confederates, and found, that though he besieg'd the Romans, yet that they did the like to the Capuans, the Consuls having both victuall'd and fortify'd themselves sufficiently, he resolv'd to effect that by diversion which he could not by force, and therefore past silently the River Vulturnus, and crossing with wonderful expedition the Countreys of the Sidicinians, Artifanians, Cassinians and Fregellans, he in seven days presented himself before the magnificent Walls of Rome, and had done it much sooner, had not the Fregillans pull'd down the Bridge at the River Lyris, and thereby much retarded his march; and though this was meerly a stratagem of War, yet he attributed it to a gallantry of his Passion; for in a Letter he sent me, it relisht more of Izadora's Soldier to take Rome than relieve Capua. It is not difficult to believe that the Romans, who did fear to hear of Hannibal, did much more so to see him at their Gates, especially being fol∣low'd by a triumphant Army; But for all his using such unimaginable di∣ligence, the Senate receiv'd secret advice of his designs. Never Rome was fill'd with so universal a Terror as then, no not when the Gaules under the valiant Breunus, conquer'd all of it but the Capitol, and when the Forum ran with streams of the Senates and Patricians Blood. This great consternation had no influence upon any but the people, the Senate still maintaining that gravity and courage which was their nature as much as practice; but at the length the common fear was well silenc'd by the arrival of Fulvius Flaccus (one of the Consuls that had besieg'd Capua) who being sent for to defend Rome, was come almost as soon as Hanni∣bal, and brought with him 15000 of the select Legionaries, and a thou∣sand choice Men at Arms. That which gave him the happiness of coming so opportunely, was, not only the timely intelligence was sent him, but also passing through Countries that were his friends, he receiv'd none of those impediments which the Carthaginean met with. The Senate sent

the Carthaginian met with. The Senate sent for one of the Consuls to please the People, and but for one, not to please Hannibal, who might have too much glory'd to have made them neglect their Conquests for their safeties. The Consul Flaccus being inform'd, that the next morning the enemy intended to storm Rome, resolv'd (with the permission of the Senate) to make a Battel, Hannibal's only way to the assault, decla∣ring generously, that 'twas not fit the Empire of the World should fall like a common City, but if the expiration of it were now arriv'd, 'twere requisite its ruine should shew its greatness, and that those which com∣pos'd it should dye with it. The day therefore no sooner began to appear, but the valiant Consul drew out his Army, which with those he brought, and those Romans that voluntarily came under his Ensigns, consisted of 50000 Men. Hannibal on the other side about the same instant, drew his Soldiers out of their Camp, but he admir'd when instead of seeing the Walls cover'd with his Enemies, he perceiv'd the Fields were so; but his wonder was soon converted into joy, to observe that Rome would fall like her self, and that he should have to deal with those upon even terms, who he had suspected would give him more trouble to joyn with, than to conquer them; and to lose no time, he commanded the Trumpets, the Clairons, and all the other Musick of War, to give the signal of Bat∣tel, which no sooner was heard, than both these great Bodies began to move with resolution worthy their Quarrel, the one fighting to win the Empire of the World, and the other to keep it. But just as they were about to begin that fatal Tragedy, the Sun (which till then had shone very bright) began to hide it self, as perhaps detesting to look upon so many intended Murders; the whole face of the Heaven was in an instant obscur'd with a thick darkness; the Thunder did hideously grumble; the winds made a noise, as if they had all broken loose out of their Caves, and the Clouds melted so fast, that many thought the Lightnings had dissolv'd them, and as many admir'd how so much fire could avoid quenching in so much water: I cannot better describe the horror of this day, then by the effects it produced, which were, that it constrain'd the Consul and Hannibal to return with their Armies into their several Camps; for Flaccus too had pitch'd his Tents in a great field some two furlongs from the Temple of Hercules, lest Hannibals being before Rome should look like besieging it, which none could truly say he did, whilst there was a Roman betwixt him and the City. But that which afflicted Hannibal, as much as this miraculous separation, which he then termed but a suspension of his victory, was an advertisement he received by his Spies, that the Senate had not only since his coming sent certain Com∣panies with flying Ensigns to the recruit of their Legions in Spain, but also had sold those very fields on which he Campt, at a higher rate, thau they were valu'd at before his being possest of them; In revenge whereof, he caus'd all the rich Shops in the Forum, to be sold by a publique Cryer. But sir, (said Izadora) that which made the precedent storm so absolutely a wonder, was, that as soon as Flaccus and Hanni∣bal were returned into their Camps, the day prov'd so very fair, and the night too, that the Carthaginian was proud with a belief, that th•• next visit of the Sun, would unavoidably decide his Fate; but there∣in also he was deluded, for the succeeding day, was but a perfect repe∣tition of the preceding, as well for the Miracle, as for the separation of the two Armies, onely the Tyber was with those Cataracts of Rain, so ex∣ceedingly swell'd, that she overflow'd her Banks, and had like to have

reveng'd all the Romans losses by the ruine of Hannibals Army; but he by a timely care remov'd his Tents to a higher ground, and thereby avoided an Enemy, which he could not resist. I remember, I have been told, that several private persons in Rome (for the Senate detested to seem to derive any advantage, but from their Arms) perform'd many sacrifices to the Nymphs and Nayades of Tyber for endeavouring their revenge, and for making Hannibal fly out of his Camp, which never any Romans thitherto had done.

I must now, generous Spartacus, acquaint you with a particular which few have heard, and fewer have believ'd, in which last number, I per∣haps include my self; but yet I shall tell it you, since it is a part of that story you seem so much concern'd in: Blacius, (according to Hannibal's promise to me) being set at liberty, and understanding of Hannibal's design upon Rome, and of the continuance of his passion, com∣manded me to desire him, by the pressingst conju••ations a Letter was capable of, to carry his Arms to any other place, rather than to the de∣struction of that City, where I had my Birth, with this hope, that if my Prayers were successful, it would free Rome from an imminent ruine, and if they were not, 'twould prove a good rise to free me from his ad∣dresses: for he abhorr'd an allyance with Hannibal, as highly as with Pe∣rolla and detested the Enemy of his Countrey as much as of his Fami∣ly. I immediately obey'd Blacius, as much by inclination as by duty, and sent a post away with a Letter to the Carthaginian, which because 'twas my own, I did not think it worthy the remembring: my Express came to him in the midst of his fury for these two unfortunate separati∣ons, and of his Resolves the next morning, if his Souldiers could not march, they should swim to a Victory; but as soon as he had read my Letter, he divested himself of all his rage, and gave immediate Orders to have his Army the next day ready to march away, contenting himself (as he gave it out) that he had made Rome tremble, and necessitated the gods to a double miracle for her safety (that of the Inundations, and that of his not taking her:) But yet to satisfy the Avarice and Suffer∣ings of his Soldiers, he led them the direct way to the Grove of Fe∣ro••••, where stood a Temple of inestimable Riches, all which he expos'd to their pillage, and from thence return'd me by my Messenger, this An∣swer to my Letter;

HANNIBAL to the fair IZADORA.

HE that has already sacrific'd his revenge to your Commands, does the like now with his Victory; I should have said with his Glory, did he not find more in his obedience, than he could in his success. Would to the gods, fair Izadora, you could but enjoy as high a contentment in the reception, as I do in the payment of your Duty: I might then have some hopes that my Passion might not prove eternally fruitless, and that he who ambitions nothing but this satisfaction, might by incessant impressions of that quality and pro∣duction, invite you by an imitation, to reward what you cannot but approve.

AFter Hannibal's retreat from Rome, Flaccus return'd to Capua to his Colleague Appius Clodius, and the Capuans, who had endur'd miseries almost sufficient for the punishment of their Rebel••i∣on observing the Consul, was not follow'd by the Carthaginian

Army, found it high time to think upon their securities; in order where∣unto they assembled the Senate, where after a serious debate, Vibius (Uncle to Perolla) perceiving that the major part inclin'd to submit un∣to the Roman Mercy, in an excellent Oration befought them, rather to dye by their own hands, and so rob their Enemies of the Glory of full Con∣quest, by contributing to their own ruine, and make Hannibal know by so noble a fall, that the preserving of such generous friends, had been more worthy his Arms, than the taking of that which he but attempted; that it was more resembling the antient splendor of Capua, to perform what might rather create the Romans admiration than their pity, that for his own particular, he esteem'd no Fate so bad, as to make up a part of Claudius and Flaccus's Triumph, which was the best condition they could expect by a surrender; therefore all those who were gallant enough to expire with their liberty, he invited to go with him, and take their share of a Cup, which should exempt them for ever from the cruelties and vicissitudes of Fortune. After he had finished these words, he saluted the Senate with an admirable constancy, and being follow'd by seven and twenty Senators, he went directly home, where they all hasted to pledge that fatal health which he began, having no fears in their deaths, but that the Romans should possess Capua before they were acted. I have told you (said Izadora) this Tragedy, not only because it was the dis∣course and admiration of the whole World, but also because the chief Actor of it had so near a relation to my generous Friend, the rest of the Senate immediately submitted to the Consuls, and found from Flaccus, that death with ignominy, which they might have given themselves with Glory. Hannibal to revenge his dead Friends, perform'd many great ex∣ploits in the Countreys of the Brutians and Lucanians, where he sacrific'd to appease their Manes above ten thousand Romans, and then the season being unfit for action, he return'd to this City, and in a Complement to me, declin'd a Triumphant Entry, because the chiefest ornaments of it, were to have been compos'd of the spoils of my Countrey.

When the faithful Symander was (to Callimachus) thus obeying his dear Masters Commands, they both perceiv'd him coming towards them, accompanied with one of the Priests of Venus, who was come to adver∣tise his Superior, that the Sacrifices which are usually offer'd to appease the incens'd Deity, and to break the Oracles unaccustom'd silence, onely expected his presence to be performed. He immediately obey'd the Sum∣mons, though he had much rather employ'd his time in hearing of Syman∣der, whose Relations so charm'd him, that it almost darkened his Piety; but that he might return the sooner to so pleasing an entertainment, he took Artabanes by the hand, and led him to be an assistant to those Ceremonies, which were unavoidably to be perform'd, before he could learn his Fate,

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIRST PART.

BOOK VI.

THE Sacrifice being finisht, and Callimachus having perfectly consider'd the Prophetical parts of the Victims, assured all the Assistants, that the Deity was well pleased with their Devotions, but that he could not as yet discover any Maxim in Divination, which might afford a certainty, that within few days, the Oracle should be restored to the liberty of speaking. Artabanes was extreamly troubled with this belief, and the better to entertain those thoughts it created, he withdrew himself into a solitude which that morning he had disco∣vered, and which was indeed a place fit to cherish so deep a melancholly as his: it was in a Valley all over-hung with lofty Trees, whose tops were so interwoven by the help of Nature onely, that they rather form∣ed an obscurity than a shade; it was watred too with many clear Foun∣tains, whose sad murmur seemed to bear our unfortunate Lover compa∣ny, and to have a sense of his miseries: but this forlorn retirement was so far from the Temple, that Artabanes (whose natural strength was ve∣ry much impaired by an internal grief which by degrees consumed him) was constrained to make use of his Horse to return thither, where he was no sooner come, then having ty'd him to a Tree, he flung himself upon the grass, and after a serious reflexion on his past misfortunes, and pre∣sent condition, he cryed out, Great gods, do you take delight in cruelty, that you enjoyn me to live after a loss, which makes my life my torment? or are you ignorant that it lies not in your power (in this life) to re∣pair the miseries you have cast upon me in it? if not one of these, why did you command me to live, when I had almost found in my resolution my cure? and enjoyn me to receive my Fate from this Oracle, on which at the same instant, you impos'd an extraordinary silence; if you intend∣ed my ruine, why do you bring your power in question by not effect∣ing it, and if you design'd my felicity, why did you take Parthenissa to you? if you were resolv'd upon the former, why did you bestow on me so great a Heart? and if you meant the latter, why did you give me so great a Constancy? Shall I find Courage is as high a Curse to me, as it is a Blessing to others? and shall I find in Virtue a greater torment than ever you inflicted for the punishment of Vice? Great gods! (he conti∣nued fetching a deep sigh) I have for all this obeyed you, when it was against my reas••n, when it was against my inclination, and yet all the re∣ward I beg of you for so painful an obedience, is, that by a mark of your

fury, I may receive one of your Love: but if your Thunder be kept for the wicked, and not the unfortunate, let your Oracle command me to dye, this hand (when you have taken off the impiety) shall be the joyful Executioner of your sentence, and by one generous blow send me to that union in the other World, which it seemed you thought me un∣worthy of in this. Whilst Artabanes was in these expostulations, Calli∣machus had led Symander into that Walk, in which he had begun his re∣lations, and where he desired him (with an impatience that manifested his concernment) to prosecute them, which the faithful Servant willing∣ly undertook, and having begged Callimachus's pardon, for dwelling so long on a story, not essential to his Princes, which yet he believed high∣ly worth the relation, and minded him, that he was interrupted at Han∣nibals return unto Salapia, and that he always spoke the fair Izadora's words, thus continued her Adventures.

The continuance of Izadora's and Perolla's History.

YOU may be pleased (said Izadora to my Prince) to excuse me, if I have too much particularized Hannibals success and actions, on which I should not have so long insisted, had he not vowed to me, they were performed more upon the score of Love than Glory, in which last he was ambitious to our Rival Perolla, as much as Perolla had him in the first. I believe too, you have not forgot, that when he did leave this City, he did not either his hopes or his passion, the first of which was cherish'd by Oristes's undertaking and promises, who to avoid being as false to Hannibal, as he had been to Virtue, entirely bent himself to ru∣ine the perfectest flame that ever any Lovers were capable of, and know∣ing, that Vice, is never so powerful as when it assumes the habit of Vir∣tue, he resolved to take up the name, and (for a while too) the actions of a friend, in which hypocrisie he was so successful, that he made Pe∣rolla his, as sincerely as he was seemingly so to him; and truly he prov∣ed so excellent a Conterfeit, that his misfortune had been as great if he had not reacht his ends, as his fault was in attaining them. In brief, he so engaged himself in all my generous friends concerns, and so deeply sym∣pathized in his joys, his fears, and all his other passions, that it was on∣ly the work of time, to disclose the fallacy: but at last, hearing of Han∣nibals return, and knowing that delay in designs of Love and Glory, are equally intollerable, he began to sow the seed of jealousie betwixt us, which he was confident would bring him so plentiful a return; and indeed it was a great misfortune that the Carthaginian had elected an in∣strument so perfect, both in dissimulation, and in wickedness; for if the former had been less, his power to do ill had resembled it, and if the latter had been so, his Will had been the like; but both concurring to∣gether, was a danger whose greatness can hardly be equalled, but to the goodness of those powers which hindered its effect. I told you, Sir, though Oristes knew well, what Hannibals impatience would be, yet he declined his attempt, till a good while after his return, not doubting but to satisfy him for the delay, by the certainty of the advantage it would produce. In order to this, the same night he entred Salapia, Oristes wait∣ed on him, of whom he immediately inquired with an earnestness, which demonstrated an accession, rather than a Diminution of his passion, what progress he had made towards the settlement of his felicity: to which the false Agent replyed, that as yet he had been but preparing, what he

shortly intended to act, and thereupon informed him, how that he had got so great an interest in Perolla, that he doubted not but to employ it for his certain ruine, if at least, Hannibal redoubled his assiduity towards me, and whatsoever my usage were, that he would not only put on a coun∣tenance which might relish of satisfaction, but cast out words, which might make all the Salapians believe, and talk of the change, which when once divulged, and none permitted to visit Perolla, but such as would cre∣dit, and relate what they heard, he would so Husband that report, that if Perolla's constancy were not his nature, it must inevitably be ruined. Hannibal exceedingly approv'd of this advice, and so admirably acted his part, that not only most of the Salapians believ'd I had a real passion for him, but also Blacius did so. This great alteration soon flew like Light∣ning through the City, and at last came to Perolla, whose amazement as it proceeded rather from his finding so many were mistaken in me, than that he himself was so. But Oristes who attributed his to the cause he de∣sired, and not to the true one, came one day to Perolla's Chamber, where after having with great vehemency, protested to him an unequall'd friend∣ship, he conjur'd him by it, to cast off a melancholly which would rather increase my Triumph, than make me repent my crime; and that if he were so unfortunate as yet to have a passion for one which was so unworthy of it, and desired to reclaim me, he should rather, than constantly conti∣nue, seemingly divest himself of his Flame, and contemn me; for Wo∣man-like Kings were more concerned to subdue a Rebel, than to make a new Conquest. I am sorry (Perolla coldly reply'd) that I have an op∣portunity to place so high a justice upon the fair Izadora's constancy, as not to suspect it when Oristes does: But (he continued) is it possible, that a perfection more apparent than this Calumny can be so unhappy as to be doubted by Men of judgement and honesty? Ah! unjust Heaven, why did you establish the Throne of Virtue in the Heart, and not in some conspicuous place, where to be virtuous, and to be known so, had been the same thing? but perhaps the highest proof of virtue is undisturbedly to endure the reproaches of Vice, and if goodness were visible, our In∣Interests, and not our Inclinations might make us embrace it, whereas when it has no witness but the possessor, it is a nobler invitation to it. But Oristes, lest your should persevere in your crime, know, that constancy is Izadora's nature as well as practise, and I having no Title to her af∣fection, but her goodness, I should be as foolish to doubt the foundation of my felicity, as miserable if it fail'd. I wish (reply'd Oristes) Izadora had a constancy worthy so noble a Flame, and if this be not the object of my belief, it shall be at least of my Prayers. You speak (said Perolla) as if you had still some doubts of her Passion for me. Would to the gods (he coldly replyed, folding his Arms, and casting down his eyes) that mine were but doubts: (and then unfolding them, and looking up cheer∣fully again) but I am too blame (he continued) to make you misera∣ble before your time, and to let my words be so unfortunate, as to ac∣quaint you with what her actions will. Ah Oristes (Perolla cryed out) I conjure you by all the gods, inform me of your suspitions, and be confi∣dent, if I receive any trouble from them, it can proceed onely from the knowledge that my friend has injured what he should admire; for in what concerns my particular, I am as far from believing she can be criminal, as she is from being so; No, no, Oristes, I beseech you, tell me your suspiti∣ons, that I may remove them, and that for your good opinion of her, I may be oblig'd as mch to your Reason, as your Faith; and the sooner

to induce you to this; I must tell you plainly, that to be my friend, and Izadora's Enemy is inconsistent. The wicked Oristes perceived by these generous replies, that he had undertaken a task as difficult, as dishonest, but knowing himself too far engaged to retire, he told Perolla (with a deep sigh) I had rather renounce all things, than the blessing of your friend∣ship, and therefore what I thought to have acquainted you with, as an effect of my care, I will silence as an argument of my respect; but perhaps Izadora's flame for Hannibal may tell you a truth, which the excess of your passion makes me decline to do: neither would I have so much as mention∣ed this, did I not know, it is already as publique as true, and consequent∣ly that you have heard it. That I have heard it (said Perolla) is not more certain, than that I do not believe it; but alas (he continued) is it possi∣ble that Oristes does? If I did not apprehend (he replyed) to offend you, by acquainting you with my belief, I should inform you of it, and accom∣pany it with such pregnant reasons, as perhaps it might turn to be yours too. I conjure you (said Perolla, hastily) to impart it to me, for I find, 'tis as impossible to remove your jealousies, till I know them,, as 'twere for you to have any of Izadora, if you knew her. I will then (said Oristes (tell you freely, that not only I believe she has gas given her self to the Carthaginian, but also wonder you do not: consider (I beseech you) that Inconstancy and Ambition are the Hereditary Vices of her Sex; that you are a forlorn Prisoner, that your Rival is a Triumphant Conqueror, which are two extreams that can hardly avoid creating those two others in your Mistriss: Reflect, I beseech you, upon the difference between the imaginary Crown of Constancy, and the real one of Empire; For though Hannibal be not born of a King, yet his Virtue makes him the disturber of Kingdoms, which is a more glorious power, than any that can be deriv'd from Succession or Birth; Remember also that a Woman is more pleas'd with the Power, than with the Merit of her Lover, the first being an ad∣vantage, which she participates in, but the last, one, which he wholly in∣grosses to himself.

This (said Perolla, interrupting him) is the character of some of her Sex, but 'tis not of Izadora, whose Reason as much as Nature, detests so black a crime; I say, her Reason, for the cannot decline a Crown of Vertue for one of Gold, but the reflection on the purchase, will deprive her of all the joy of it; and though a Crown of Empire be more glittering than one of Constancy, yet the just gods, by conferring many real advantages on the latter, have abundantly repair'd the seeming ones of the former; for the first being material, is subject to the inconstancies of Fortune, but the last being a speculative Blessing, is exempted from the power of that blind goddess: yes, doubtless, a Crown of Constancy is the noblest, as well as safest, for it produces Admiration, where the other does Envy. Alas (said Oristes) how ingenuous you are to invent Arguments to cousen your self, and as if Izadora deluded you not fast enongh, you contribute to her design. Take heed (reply'd Perolla) of what you say, for I can hardly believe him virtuous, that thinks she is not. This made Oristes per∣ceive, that to destroy my generous Friends good opinion of me, he must decline arguments, and employ demonstrations, which made him say, Though I find I shall create your anger, by acquainting you with what I lately discover'd; yet I had rather hazard the losing of your friend∣ship, by an action which will render me worthy of it, than continue it by a silence which my own Couscience will more severely punish,

than you can. Yes, yes, Perolla, I am determin'd since to cure your disease I must shew you the deformity of it, to instruct you with a truth, that had not my sight been a witness of, I should never have credited; in a word; 'tis that with these Eyes I lately saw her give such large proofs of her passi∣on to Hannibal, that not only I suspect her Constancy but her Vertue. At these barbarous words, all Perolla's temper abandon'd him, and in its room he entertain'd a rage so unresistable, that forgetting all the former¦ties of friendship, he flung himself upon the false Oristes, and having cast him at his feet, and there drawn out the wretches own Ponyard, he held it to his breast, and cry'd out to him, Traytor, that under the habit of a friend, thinkst to shrowd thy self from the punishment of an Enemy, and from a crime the Devils would tremble but to hear; know, that in accu∣sing Izadora's Virtue, thou hast justify'd her, and by undertaking to make her guilty, hast prov'd thy self so: Do not think, that because I have lost my Liberty, I have lost my Courage, nor that the apprehension of Hannibal's resentments shall hinder me from acting mine; no, no, could he inflict on me torments as great as those thou merit'st, I would endure them all, rather than thy impiety should escape them unreveng'd; for that Di∣vine Justice, which has made me from a Prisoner, a Judge, and hast fur∣nish'd me with Power as well as Will to punish thee, would not have so arm'd my Hand, if it had not ordain'd, thy death should appease that sa∣cred Virtue, thy life has so highly injur'd. Whilst Perolla wai thus speak∣ing, the falfe Oristes lay as if he had already receiv'd the reward of his infi∣delity; but when he perceiv'd his resolution, and that he was going to act it, he cry'd out, Hold, generous Perolla, and if I beg this small sus∣pension of Life, 'tis only to let you know, who 'tis you destroy, 'tis your faithful'st Friend; and now I have told you that Truth, act your resentments, for since you have withdrawn your friendship, they will be rather effects of your goodness, than your revenge, and the gods who know my innocency, are so just as to render that which makes my life my misfortune, the cure of the latter, by the ending of the former. Though I know well (reply'd Perolla) all thou now say'st, is but a continuation of thy wickedness, and that these words are spoken, because thou hast found I am sooner vanquish'd with dissembling, than resistance, yet I give thee thy Life, not as a mercy but a punishment, for the horror of having injur'd so fair an Innocence, will be a greater torment, than that death from which I now exempt thee: Rise then (he continu'd) and be gone, but if ever again thou present'st thy self before me, thou wilt kindle a fire, which nothing but thy bloud can extinguish. I will obey you (said the perfiduous Oristes) in hope that by so painful an obedience, you will dis∣cover a friendship and innocency, which your passion hinders you now from seeing, and if by my sufferings I can shew you your error, I shall never deplore them. Then saluting Perolla with a great humility, he went from him with a greater joy, 'having escap'd a Death which he could not think he had more strangely avoided, than he had justly deserved it. I know (said Izadora) that 'twere but just to decline a while the prose∣cuting the rest of my Story, to declaim upon this generous part of it; but I know too, Perolla's virtue would be as much offended with such a gra∣titude, as I was pleas'd with the cause of it. Perolla, who for so obliging a Civility esteem'd it necessary to make his fair Mistriss a return, told her, If you had a design, Madam, to have made this performance pass in the generous Spartacus opinion for an action of Merit, you should not then have shew'd him the perfect Izadora; for in her Beauty she carries her

Justification, and to suspect that Vice can dwell in so much brightness, is to be ignorant of its Nature, and to commit a folly as high as Oristes wickedness. Izadora by a reply of the same quality, repaid her Lovers Compliment, and thus reassum'd her discourse.

As soon as the false Agent was gone from Perolla, he went and acquaint∣ed the Carthaginian with his ill success, from whose rage he had like to have receiv'd an usage as ill, as that which Perolla's Justice had near impo∣sed on him, for he had rais'd his expectation to such a height, that it made the fall the more insupportable: but at last Hannibal perceiving that Oristes was unfortunate, and not faulty, (at least as to him) he was con∣tented to tell him, that he must not expect his favour, till he had gain'd him mine; that it was too the sensiblest way of obliging him, as well as of revenging that so fresh and high affront: that their Interest being now joyn'd, he would not despair, but that he wou'd project some new de∣sign for the obtaining of his desires, which if it succeeded, should make him acknowledge, that whosoever made Hannibal happy, could not doubt the being made so by him. Thereupon Oristes having first assur'd him that no particular interest of his own could bring any accession to that zeal, he had already for his satisfaction, and that he would employ all his fa∣culties to the settlement of it, withdrew himself to meditate on what he determin'd to practice. But it is high time to inform you, that the Cartha∣ginian, (though he constantly visited me) had yet (in reliance on Oristes promises) declin'd making any overtures of his passion, lest my replies might have provok'd him beyond his temper, and made him disclose a fallacy, which with admirable patience and sagacity, he had so long continu'd; but now, seeing those hopes were vanisht, he resolv'd to renew his addres∣ses, and to that end came to see me, where finding me alone (which my hu∣mour and condition, made me often elect) he, without any of those ci∣vilities which he usually practis'd, told me; That long silence, Madam, which your Commands have made me observe, the violence of my Passi∣on makes me break, which is arriv'd to such a height, that it must now be the occasion of my Felicity or my Ruine, for it can admit of nothing but extreams, and I must now become the object of your hate or of your Love; the gods shall be my witnesses, that I have declin'd this declaration, till ne∣cessity constrain'd me to it, and I believe you cannot doubt, but it must be a strange violence, which forces me to what I apprehend is a trouble to you; Yes, fair Izadora, I say, forces me unto it; for, in what depended on my Will, when 'twas to acquaint you with my respect, I declin'd my re∣venge, I declin'd my Ambition, two of the most pleasing passions, and not to offend you, I elected to offend the gods, chusing to reward my Soldi∣ers valors with sacred things, rather than with the spoils of Rome. But in what relates to my Flame, I am not master of my own motions, I have af∣flicted my self, not to do the like to you, I have endeavour'd to establish your felicity, by ruining my own, and I have represented to my self, that I ought not to have a higher contentment than the setling of yours; but Madam, all my endeavours therein are fruitless; for I find the passion of Love is most predominant, and that the extinguishing of my flame is as impossible, as I believe the performing it would be pleasing to you; but your Beauty that makes my crime, must be my excuse, for it has charms to print a Passion, as well as Majesty to enjoyn Obedience. This (fair Iza∣dora) is my condition, and 'tis at the last extremity, and after all Essays, that I am come to implore your Affection, when I know I should rather beg your pardon. I must confess (said Izadora) so violent a beginning

gave me strange apprehensions what the conclusion of this visit would pro∣duce; but (lest my fears might increase his considence) I instantly reply'd; If you have had any great conflicts with your self, for the setling of my feli∣city, I believe those I have had for the acquainting you with my gratitude, have not been inferior to them; but that same Will which forces you to a perseverance in your affection, necessitates me to the like in mine; and since by an experiment you find we have something within us, which is the god over our inclinations, I hope you will pardon my not accepting your affection, upon the same score that I excuse the continuation of yours. If (said Hannibal extreamly mov'd) our Wills were wholly created by our Fancies, which are the most often deprav'd irregularities, there might be some appearance in what you alledge; but since amongst reasonable Creatures, reason commonly forms them, I must look upon that which you do term a constraint resembling mine, rather as a design'd cruelty for my destruction; for if Perolla has purchas'd any glory, I believe my stock is not less than his; if he have a high a passion for you, mine is not inferi∣or; if he have paid you any services, I have not been deficient in those du∣ties: and if he has received any gifts from nature, perhaps I have not been unbeholding to her: therefore Madam, you cannot be so unjust to use that argument, for the continuing of your flame, which I did for your pardon for persevering in mine, the difference betwixt you and Perolla being so vast, that none which is not as blind as Love, can imagine the same effects have an equal cause.

I must acknowledge (said Izadora) I was so sensible of hearing him make his own Elogy, so much too, to the prejudice of Perolla, that I had not apprehended what I should have said for his justification, might have turn'd (through Hannibals fury) to his prejudice, I had made him know how much (in truth, and in my judgement) he was his own flatterer; but that consideration made me only tell him, If either our Wills be form∣ed by our Fancy or Reason, or composed of both, I find in Perolla a great∣er subject for the continuance of my affection, than you can do in me, for a perseverance in yours; 'tis not that I give him any precedency over the great Hannibal, who it may be (had I known him first) might have had that heart, which now it is impossible for any but Perolla to possess; but the Stars have tyed me to him, 'tis not in my power, nor in my inclination, to change their influence: therefore, Sir, I conjure you, let your genero∣sity act what your judgement should, give me cause to admire what I am unworthy to love, and consider 'tis something of divine to make others hap∣py. If (said the Carthaginian, with a Face all inflam'd with fury) it be im∣possible for Hannibal to possess your heart, I will render it as impossible for Perolla, who shall find I have a power to make others miserable, if I my self am made so; and since you esteem the possession of Izadora too great a felicity for me, I must think it is so for any other; Your cruelty (Madam) constrains me to this declaration, which whatsoever influence it has on me, it shall have the like on Perolla: and if at last you reduce me to despair, I will accompany my ruine with ones, whose loss you will deplore, as much as you would rejoyce at mine, Great gods! what a trembling did these barbarous threatenings put me into? they were a thousand times fuller of horror, than if they had been made against my own life, but amongst all those fears, the reflection on Hannibal's Power, and Inclination, and consequently on Perolla's danger, arm'd me with such a resolution, that had had I follow'd the dictates of it, I might have rendred that rage a justice, which was a cruelty: but my good Genius gave me power to sup∣press

it, and finding the Tyrant was the fiercer by opposition, I replyed, The virtues of the great Hannibal are too well known unto me, to suspect, any passions can be more predominate over him, than they: those hu∣mane frailties can only do like clouds, hinder the Sun from shining,, but not extinguish his light; 'tis his anger, and not he which threatens me. No, no, Madam (the Carthaginian hastily replyed, interrupting me) do not flatter your self, nor me, in believing I am capable of milder resolutions, than I have acquainted you with, and receive this as an unalterable Truth, that the same hour in which you absolutely take away my hopes, I will Pe∣rolla's life. With those cruel words he went out of the room, and left me alone to breath out those complaints, which I disdain'd to utter in his presence, But, Sir, my astonishment at this proceeeding, was far short of what it was raised unto, by that I am now going to tell you. Some four or five days after, Hannibal came to visit me again, where having found by oblique questions, that his assaults had rather confirm'd, than mov'd my resolutions, he immediately made me such submissive r••••anta∣tions, for what was past, that I believed they were as real as humble; then he assured me, that having always loved me above himself, he was come to evidence that truth, by an undeniable experiment; that the respect he paid the happy Perolla, as being the object of my love, was greate than his aversion to him, for being the obstructer of his; and since he thought no evincement of the reality of those professions could be both so great and pleasing, as the ruining of his own felicity, for the establishing of mine, he was determined to settle it, at that rate, that his former threatenings were but as a last Essay, and that having found our flames were too Di∣vine to admit of extinction, he was inviolably fixt to admire what he could not destroy; and to obtain a pardon for those persecutions his passion, and not he had raised us, he would immediately restore Perolla to his liberty, and employ all his authority with Blacius to unite, what was a sin any longer to divide. At these generous words, I cast my self at the Carthaginians feet, and by too many expressions for a repetition acquainted him with my joy and acknowledgements. Immediately after he went to Perolla, where in civilities of a resembling quality, he implor'd his forgiveness, and begg'd him always when he consider'd his persecuti∣ons, that he would too, consider the occasion of them, that so the re∣flection on the cause, might apologize for the effect; he besought him further, to remember the obligation was greater to lay down a passion for Izadora, than the injury was to have assumed one: since having seen her, not to be his Rival, could not prove a greater miracle, than having been it, ever to decline that name. After some other expressions, and embraces, Hannibal assured Perolla, that as an argument of his conversi∣on, and that he had silenc'd (if not suppress'd) his passion from that instant he restored him to so perfect a liberty, that he might either return to Rome, or continue in Salapia, My generous friend with an equal pro∣portion of wonder and joy, received these transcendent civilities from the Carthaginian, and having made him some retributions proportionate to their cause, he was invited by him to his own House, where by fresh ac∣cessions of the like quality, he induc'd all the Salapians, not only to won∣der at, but believe the change. But (continu'd Izadora) least your asto∣nishment should prove as great at the hearing, as ours at the performance of these mutations, I must acquaint you, that Hannibal was seemingly gallant, but to become the more securely the contrary; and though he

were a Prince, who in affairs of craft and ingenuity, had hardly any equal, yea, his Genius had a greater propensity to those stratagems, which were for the winning of a Battel, or a Kingdom, than a Mistriss; This Truth I believe you will not question by the sequel of this discourse, which I must continue, by informing you, that the same night after his fatal decla∣ration which he made me, concerning Perolla, he sent for Oristes, and ha∣ving lockt themselves up in his Closet, he informed him particularly of what had past betwixt us, and conjured him to find out an expedient for his relief, which if any longer delay'd, would immediately prove his de∣struction; To this his wicked Counsellor reply'd, We have already (Sir) by our attempts on Perolla, observed that his constancy finds in them rather arguments of Triumph, than Suppression; we must therefore now assault Izadora's, for it imports not whether you reach your desires by Perolla's declining her; or by Izadora's deserting him; and I am confident, had not your resentments forc'd you to threaten your Rivals life, I had found out a way which would have made it his torment, and whose success could not have fail'd, without the gods declaring themselves as much enemies to your Love, as they have been friends to your Glory. 'Twas (he conti∣nu'd) that I would have had you in your next visit to Izadora (in case you found your threatenings had not produced the effects you desired) not only alter your words, but your looks, and by a countenance alto∣gether penitent, acquaint her, that you are resolv'd to give her a testimo∣ny of your Passion, by suppressing the effects of it; that since the only way to manifest how much you valu'd her contentment, is to deprive your self of your own, you are come to divest your self of it, by re∣nouncing your hopes, and resigning them to Perolla, who you must ac∣knowledge is more worthy of the Felicity, by her esteeming him so; that since you could not conquer her, you have vanquish'd your self, and that imitation in of her, you valu'd him above your self.

'Tis (said Oristes) with such professions as these I would infuse in her a firm belief, that you would attempt against your own, rather than Pe∣rolla's life, and the better to disguise the fallacy, I am absolutely of opi∣nion, that not only your words, but your actions speak your change, I mean by giving him his liberty, and inviting him to continue near his Mi∣striss; for I can assure you, Blacius is so vigilant of his Daughter, that your Rival can derive no advantage by his freedom, and so detests any alli∣ance with Pacuvius's Bloud, that he had rather marry Izadora to her grave, than to Perolla; whose Father I would have you send on some employment of so long a continuance, that in his absence we may act our intention; having then by such pregnant testimonies of your conversion, rais'd a be∣lief in your Mistriss, that you have no designs for her, but to see her married to Perolla (which I would always press to Blacius, and as his aversions for it increas'd, so should your sollicitations) I would then one night privately seize upon Perolla, and by bribing two or three Phy∣sitians (amongst which, Blacius's should be one, who is my intimate ac∣quaintance, and whose aversion to all Pacuvius's Family, and affection to Gold, will induce him to say any thing we shall put in his mouth) make them give out, that he dy'd of an Apoplexy, or some such suddain disease, and then celebrate his Funeral with such mourning and pomp, that the World may believe the reality of your Friendship is as great, as that of his Death. This being artificially perform'd, you must a while mingle your Tears with Izadora's, as for your common loss, and so steal into her affecti∣ons,

by sympathizing in her friendship and her grief: For I cannot fancy, but if your Rival were remov'd, all obstructins were so too, and the ob∣ject of her flame being dead, she will (since 'tis without injuring her Vir∣tue or Felicity) bestow her self upon a Conqueror, whose Fame only is able to dissolve the most frozen Breast. As for Perolla (if this suc∣ceed) you may either send him to another World in earnest, or after you are marry'd, the more sensibly to revenge his having been so dangerous a Rival, both in Love and Glory, permit him to continue in this; but the first is the more secure, for his Presence may receive those Fires which no∣thing extinguish'd but her belief, that his Life was so; and thus whil'st you possess Izadora, he may her Affection. That which induces me, not to have Perolla kill'd, before you see the event of this design, is, lest if by a mi∣racle she should resent his loss to such an extremity, as it may prove her own; you may have still your remedy in your power, and thereby be in no worse a condition, than that which you are in at present. The malicious Oristes having done speaking, Hennibal continu'd a while weighing the probability of this design, and having at last absolutely approv'd it, he de∣manded (with much impatiency) of Oristes, whether yet it might not be acted? To which his Agent reply'd, that those menaces made against Pe∣rolla, would make that relish of design, which should be esteem'd the con∣trary, since all the hope of the Plot, was the managing it with such dex∣terity, that Izadora should rather believe you deplor'd, than acted her loss. I am (said the Carthaginian) perfectly convinc'd of what you alledge, but those threatenings I made against my Rivals life, were spoken when I was in so visible a distemper, that I am confident she ascribes them soon∣er to my choller, than design: neither were they positive, but conditional, and therefore probably, all the prejudice they will bring, will be only to me, and not to what you propose, for it will tye me to act my part with more dissimulation, and protract the time of my sufferings. Thus (said Izadora) Hannibal took up a design, whose beginning I have already in∣form'd you of, and whose success was so proportionate to his desires, that not only Izadora, but Perolla believ'd his conversion was as real, as 'twas well acted. And Blacius (on the other side) so perfectly made good Oristes assurance to the Carthaginian, that in half a year, (in which Perolla en∣joy'd his liberty, and the priviledge of living in Salapia) I could never have the happiness of seeing, or the satisfaction of hearing from him, and when so intollerable a separation made the effects of it visible in my hu∣mour, the artificious Hannibal offer'd, and conjur'd me to make use of his power for our union, which had formerly been employ'd for our separati∣on, that what had injur'd, might relieve us: But he too well knew, I had rather intrench'd upon my Felicity than Duty, and 'twas upon that con∣fidence he had made me that overture. To abbreviate my Relation I shall tell you, that all which Oristes advis'd, was perform'd, and that which con∣tributed to the better executing what related to Perolla's sudden death, was, that Pacuvius and all his were remov'd to Tarentum, and that Pe∣rolla (who only had Strato to wait on him) had employ'd him to Rome about some private affairs. Oh gods! what my suffering was at that fatal news you only know, but those effects of it which were visible, prov'd so dangerous, that Blacius Physician was immediately sent for, to hinder my death from accompanying Perola's: and that Traitor detesting my alli∣ance with any of Pacuvius's Family, and being corrupted by Hannibal's re∣wards, after he had prescrib'd those things which he held needful for my con∣dition, told me, That he was apprehensive the Carthaginian had murther'd

my Friend, to build his own felicity on his ruines; that Hannibal had ra∣ther counterfeited, than extinguisht his Flame, and therefore he would go and visit Perolla's Body, which if it had receiv'd any violence, he would as certainly discover, as the gods punish it. This proposition suited with my jealousies, and though the knowledge of what he suspected, would have added to my grief (if at least it had been capable of any accession) by a manifestation, that his Passion for me was the occasion of his death, yet I embrac'd his motion, resolving if any Symptomes should evince so black a Truth, that I would with one stroke revenge his Murther, and with an∣other follow him. The Physitian some little time after being return'd, with many false Tears, protested, that Perolla's Body had not the least mark of an unnatural death, and that he ask'd the gods forgiveness, for ha∣ving suspected so clear an Innocency as Hannibals. He then too began to play the Physitian of the Mind, and besought me not to afflict my self, since 'twas not Man that had sent Perolla to the gods, but that they themselves had call'd him: But alas, my afflictions had too just an object ever to cease but with my life, which every day so exceedingly impair'd, that I was in hopes by a speedy dissolution to make the end of torments in this world, to be the beginning of joys in the other. In the mean time Hannibal ce∣lebrated Perolla's Funerals, with so many counterfeit weepings, and with so much solemnity, that all Salapia believ'd 'twas he, and not Pacuvius which had lost a Son. Two months together, he was so far from consoling me by his visits, that by them he encreas'd my grief, which, though it re∣du••'d me to a condition fitter to create his pitty than his affection, yet the last had taken so deep a root, that no diminution of my little Beauty could bring any to his passion, which indeed he could no longer silence; there∣fore one evening he came to visit me, and though I was fitter for a Priest than a Lover, yet he declar'd himself the latter, and begg'd me with the perfect'st imporunities to receive and cherish a flame which he had silenc'd, whilst he held it a crime; but now, that the higher Powers contributed so much to reward its Purity, as to take him to them, which had hinder'd me from justly receiving it, he flatter'd himself with a hope, that to re∣compence his respect and passion, and to obey what the gods themselves had so evidently approv'd, I would accept of a heart that yielded nothing in the zeal of adoring me, to that of my last Servant and his Friend. I know he spoke many things of this quality, which because I detested to hear, I cannot repeat; for I so justly disrelisht this motion, that I had a strong conflict with my self, to silence my resentments for it, but at length I told him, Ah (Sir) how can you call your self Perolla's friend? and yet endeavour to disturb his Ashes? and how can you have a Passion for one, who you have hopes to make unworthy your affection, by con∣ferring hers on you? No Sir, I beseech you let me follow my resolution, which is, to dye Perolla's, since I could not live his; for my heart (af∣ter such a loss) is not capable of any passion, but grief; or if it be, that passion I had for his Virtues, I must now continue to his memory. To which Hannibal answer'd, Will you then confer a Blessing upon one which is not capable of it, to deny it to another, who is, and perhaps deserves it too? Ah Madam, if it is your affection for Perilla, and not your hatred for Hannibal, which produces this resolve, you will evince that truth sooner by granting, than declining my request; for if in the other life we are not ignorant of what is done in this, Perolla will be more satisfy'd to know by your giving your self now to me, that he only hinder'd it hitherto, then by your refusing me absolutely that felicity;

since that may appear rather an effect of your aversion for me, than your respect to him. I am, Sir, (I reply'd) of a contrary opinion, for my passion and my resentments for his loss will be much more legible in their taking from me the ambition of being the object of so great a Conqueror's Love, and in abandoning, not only the pleasures of life, but the desire of it too. I conjure you therefore by the quiet of Perolla, which you endeavour to distu••b, torment me not by so fruitless a per∣secution, which if you persevere in, 'twill induce me rather to sup∣press the respect I pay you, than to create that affection you solicite, and for me to believe that Hannibal (and not the god's) have taken away his Rival. It may be (continu'd Izadora) you will believe so great a Prince merited a proportionate respect, but I must acknowledge, that I was not in an humour to afford it him, neither do I believe I could give him a worse opinion of me, by my replies, than he seem'd to have of me by his desires; but after by his looks he had exprest what his an∣swer would be, he told me, You think, Madam, to silence my passion with reproaches, to avoid ingratitude by becoming unjust, ••nd by ac∣cusing my innocency to decline being a debtor to my Flame; but know, that your cruelty may induce me to revenge what I cannot obtain; and though you have avoided any impressions of my Love, some that you are concern'd in, may not those of my resentments. Tyrant (I reply'd) while Perolla was alive, I consider'd thy threatenings because I fear'd them, but now the subject of my apprehensions is remov'd, I desire them; for in becoming my Executioner, thou wilt be more kind, than in continuing my Lover. Oh gods! (Hannibal cry'd out, interrupting me) Why do you give me so much Choller, and so much Love together? and why did you not give me a heart capable of enduring injuries, when you give me a Mistriss apt to confer them on me: then imme∣diately flinging himself on his knees by my Bed-side (for my weakness made me unable to receive his visits in another condition) he conti∣nu'd, Madam, though my rage hath made me sin, by menacing in a place where I should only adore, yet do not so much mis-interpret my crime, as to think my threatenings had you for their object; You, I say, for whose safety had I as many Lives, as you have Beauties, I would sacri∣fice them all, rather than employ one minute of them to a contrary thought: No, fair Izadora, if my resentments at your cruelty, forc'd my Passion to what my Reason condemns, believe me, 'twas only against Bla∣cius, who for his injuries to you, as well as Relations, appear'd in my fu∣ry, the fittest object for it. Alas, Sir (I reply'd, interrupting him) you are more cruel in your interpretation, than in your threatenings, and are more injurious in having those designs against my Father, then if against me: for if they were onely intended against Izadora, if my grief deceive me not, 'twill be so charitable, as to exempt me from them, or if it does not, your resentments will prove an obligation, (for I consider every thing at that rate, which hastens my union with Perolla) but if nei∣ther my sorrow for my loss, nor your fury for your furitless passion, will prove my cure, know that I will act it my self, and to punish my cold∣ness for Hannibal, and reward my flame for his Rival, I will untye my Soul from that Cley which invirons it, and thereby also secure Blacius against your revenge, by rendring the acting it an injustice. Thereupon turning from him, I fell so bitterly a weeping, that though Hannibal made me a long answer to what I spoke, yet I did not so much as listen to him, being wholly intent in summoning all those thoughts which I fan∣cyed

would soonest make me perform, what I told the Carthaginian I de∣signed: and indeed those sad resentments finding a body extreamly weak∣ened, and a mind as apt to receive their impressions, were in one day so kind, as to give me the hopes of not living another; neither was this only my conjecture, but the positive opinion of my Fathers Physi∣tian, who in a trembling haste, acquainted Hannibal with it, and con∣jured him since by so evidencing a demonstration, it was impossible to separate us, that he would contribute to what he law he could not hin∣der.

I will not tell you all the Carthaginians disputes with himself, which could not on so plentiful a subject but be excellent, let it be sufficient you learn, that though the cause which was to create his pity, might as justly his revenge (I mean, the sad extremity my Passion for his Rival, had reduced me to) yet he got the victory over the latter, and gene∣rously told the Doctor: Come, let us shew Lzadora her Perolla, for I had rather lose my hopes, than the object of them; but if this fresh experi∣ment of my Passion, create none in her, it may reduce me to act what I have but hitherto counterfeited. Thereupon, immediately he sent the Captain of the Guards for Perolla (who had till then, been kept in the Dungeon of a little Castle, some two miles from Salapia) who was no sooner come (though it was very late) but the Carthaginian (who had access into Blacius's house at his pleasure) came with him into my Cham∣ber, where all those that watcht with me, were weeping a death, which according to their belief and my desire, was not many hours distant: But all of them no sooner saw my generous friend, whose Funerals had been solemnized above a quarter of a year before, than with horrid skreeks they fled out of the room. Hannibal was not displeased at their absence; and Perolla (who till then, thought he was drawn out of a Prison to end his life) began now to fear a more transcend••nt misfortune, for being ignorant of his own death, the sad posture he found my Women in, and those strange extravagancies of theirs, made him attribute the first to my death, and the last to their charity, for that horror they knew would in∣vade him, as his seeing me dead; which absolutely he was confirmed in, by my not (at so great a clamour) looking out to discover or enquire the cause of it; and he further believed, that his Tyrant had only brought him thither, to shew him so melancholly a Spectacle, as a Revenge for being his Rival both in Love and Glory. But then on the other side, he could hardly believe the Carthaginian durst shew him so inraging an ob∣ject, and trust him unty'd to act his resentments. Whilst the poor Perolla was in this labyrinth, he was led out of it by Hannibal's opening my Cur∣tains a little, and telling me; See Madam, my power, and my infelicity, that can perform miracles for others, and not for my self, that can raise the dead to bring you to life, and perhaps my self to death, that can do all things indeed, but what I most desire. Here fair Izadora (he continued) drawing Perolla towards me, dry up your Tears, which else may hinder you from seeing your happiness, and remember, he which to save your life, has run so hazardous a course to his own, merits (at least) that you never give your self to another, if you will not bestow your self on him. These strange words, and the as strange noise which somewhat preceded them, made me turn about to understand their meaning; but O gods! what was my surprize when I saw Perolla in this world, who I was, ma∣king such haste to find out in the other? truly 'twas so transcendent, that I fell into a deep swound, and thereby those powers, which have ever

took delight to afflict me, continued that practise, for whilst I believed Perolla dead, they kept me alive, and now they shewed him me alive, they flung me into a seeming death, which too had like to have caused a real one in my generous friend? Hannibal, whose concern for me was not so great as his, permitted his care to be greater, who ran out to call my Women to my assistance, and to whom he was constrained to make many oaths, that it was really Perolla, and not his Ghost, before he could perswade them to come in to me; but Callione, the chiefest of them, bo h in her extraction, and my esteem, knew so well the interest I had in Pe∣rolla, that whilst others took up their employment about me, she made him the object of hers; and was so unhappily successful in it, that she brought him out of his fainting, before I was recovered of mine, which raised in him so high despair, that had not all those which were pre∣sent, assured him, my disease and his were of the same quality, and that only mine, meeting with a Body disabled by a deep sickness, was the cause of its longer continuance, I believe he would have acted some such violence on himself, as had made my recovery my highest misfortune; but at length, about an hour after, by the help of strong Cordials, my swounding abandoned me, and I no sooner opened my Eyes, than the first objects they saw, were Hannibal and Perolla, who were both kneel∣ing by my bed-side, but the joy of beholding the latter, made me nie∣ther consider nor care how much the expressions of it would offend the form••••; to confirm this truth, I told the other: Are the Gods then so just (Perolla) as to reward by this sight, the fidelity of my Eyes, which abhorr'd all objects but you, and which having lost you, have endeavour'd to weep themselves out as useless things? or else is it an illusion and a mockery of Fate, by making me, (in resenting the joy of your Resurrecti∣on) the more exactly sensible of your real death? Tell me, I conjure you, which of them 'tis? for if it be the latter, I will deceive her cruelty, and convert what she intends for one, into a summons to follow you, which I thank the gods, my weakness (for you supposed a real Death) makes me as able, as my passion willing to perform.

Madam (he reply'd, kissing my hands) I am really alive, but 'tis on∣ly your joy at it, which makes me esteem my being so a happiness; for how can I consider the persecutions I have rais'd you, in being alive, and those afflictions I have cast you into, in not being thought so by you, but I must be struck with a grief as great as my flame, and perpetually deplore an experiment which convinces me, that both my Life and my Death must be a trouble to you. All this I heard Perolla speak, yet I was so over∣joy'd at his first words, which were an assurance of what I only desired, that not answering his last, I raised my self up the best I could, and im∣bracing him that spoke them, I did that which on any other occasion, and in that posture, I should not have perform'd; but the subject of my sa∣tisfaction was so legitimate, that I could not suppress any extravagancy it produced. It is true, Madam (said Perolla, interupting his fair Mistriss) your joy was obliging to Hannibal, as well as to me, for in your acting (as he aftewards confest to Cristes) he discovered Beauties which he pro∣tested, sufficiently payd his Charity in preserving your life. Izadora at these words, was all covered with blushes, and her servant perceiving it, (to repair her disorder) told her; But Madam, as it was but just that Han∣nibal should receive a reward for his cure, so it was as just, his Eyes should receive the punishment of their presumption, which were both perform'd; for as their seeing those perfections, effected the former, so

his seeing the little share he had in them, did the latter. Izadora (said Simander) was so confus'd in the remembrance of these particulars, that without taking notice of Perolla's words, she made haste to pass over the subject of them, by thus re-assuming her relation. Hannibal was so inrag'd, that in my joy I had forgot my gratitude to him, which furnisht me with the cause of it, that rising up he told me; Is then all the reward (Madam) you give my Love, but a demonstration that you have given all yours to my Rival, and is your flame so great, that you cannot conceal it, when the disclosure is both unwise and ungrateful? Ah Izadora! how much do you rely on the power you have over me, when you care to offend mine, by so sensible a provocation? These words drew me from that em∣ployment, my excess of joy had ingag'd me in, and finding the Carthagi∣nian was as just in his reproaches, as I esteem'd I was in what caus'd them, I thought fit to tell him: You do place (Sir) a wrong construction on my actions, since that which you term my ingratitude, is rather an effect of my confidence in your Virtue; for did I think you a Tyrant, I would not add a Provocation to the Power of your Revenge, but knowing you to be just, I dare even in your presence, manifest a flame, whose vir∣tue renders me confident, rather of your protection, than resentments. Ah Madam, (said Hannibal) why do you make me just, to make me mise∣rable? and if what I have seen you act, be in reliance on my Virtue, I beseech you ascribe none unto me, for mine will then be my punish∣ment, and make me rather implore the Gods, to take from me that little I possess, than to let it thus torment me. We were in discourses of this qua∣lity, when Blacius being inform'd of Hannibal's visit (and of Pe∣rolla's Resurrection) came into my Chamber, where in terms as sharp as the remembrance of the Carthaginian's power permitted him to use, he murmur'd at his bringing his mortal Enemy into his House, and restoring his Daughter to a certainty of his being alive: And though Hannibal re∣presented, that that was the only way to continue me so; yet my Fa∣ther never lessen'd his repining, but added, that since I was of so degene∣rate a disposition, he had rather have lost than preserv'd me at so high a rate. Then he besought Hannibal to permit him to make use of his pater∣nal and domestick power over his Daughter, and in his own House; which the Carthaginian granted, that we might be separated, and yet not derive that misfortune from him; but though it was not immediately his act, yet it was an effect of his permission, which I so resented, that seeing my Father going to send out Perolla, with somewhat a less civility than I expected, I made haste to tell him; Since, generous Perolla, I know not whether we shall ever meet again, I esteem it fit to give you an assurance before such memorable witnesses, that the gods shall be mine, I will ne∣ver be any's but yours, that nothing but death shall dissolve this engage∣ment, and if yours happen before mine, I will, by the help of my grief, or my resolution, immediately follow you. Perolla at this profession, turn'd about (though Blacius was leading him forth) and told me, And I Madam, do beseech the same god's, if ever I cherish my life, but for your sake, if ever I decline my passion, or if ever I survive your loss a minute, after I know it, to make me the object of their fury, and to throw on me as ma∣ny miseries, as they have bestowed perfections on the fair Izadora.

This profession I made him, as well to reward his flame, asto take from Blacius all the hopes of changing mine, as also to punish Hannibal for gi∣ving my Father a power which he denyed him in all things but to tor∣ment me; and truly the Carthaginian was in such a rage at this just and

mutual ingagement, that he commanded some of his Guards (which wait∣ed at the door) to take Perolla and keep him as their lives, till his plea∣sure were known. Then coming to my Bed-side, he told me; I see, Ma∣dam, that you trample on the goodness of my disposition, and that you believe, because I have not, that I dare not revenge my self on my Rival; but know, if you persevere in that belief, I will convince you of the contrary, by so bloudy an experiment, that you will find I am capable of as high a proportion of Revenge, as Love; and that by not reward∣ing the latter, you will necessitate me to act the former. He had no soon∣er done speaking, than without staying for a reply, he left me, and at Oristes importunate intreaties, he commited Perolla to his charge, with horrid vows, that he should answer for him with his life; To which con∣dition, the Traitor condescended; and having received his Charge, he brought him to his House, lodged him in a Chamber with grated Win∣dows, and placed at the coming in to it, a strong Guard of Affricans, which Hannibal furnisht him with, who, every day visited me, and as his discourse, so his reception was; sometimes returning with hopes, for I con∣sidered Perolla was in his power; sometimes without any, lest he might think him his only obstacle, and so remove him. But I omitted to tell you, that the certainty of my generous Friends being alive, made me court as much my recovery, as formerly I had my death; and with my health, my little (and unfortunate) beauty being returned, it increast so much the Carthaginians fire, that under the pretence of the greatness of it, one even∣ing he became so indiscreet, that I was not capable any longer to dissem∣ble, but gave him so just and sharp a reprehension, that in the fury it pro∣duced, upon his return to his own house, he sent for Oristes, and led him into his own Bed-chamber, where having shut the door, he acquainted that Traitor, that he was able no longer to contain his resentments, and that he could not bear two such powerful Passions, as Revenge, and Love. The false Oristes, readily laid hold of the motion, and to satisfy his own revenge on Perolla, (whom he highly apprehended) so husbanded Han∣nibal's fury, that he inclined him at last, really to make away his Rival, concluding, that his respect had been too long his torment, that it was but just to take away so considerable an Enemy, both to him and to Carthage, and that if he could not thereby obtain his desires, yet he should his re∣venge. This Resolve being assumed, Oristes, as he had procured Perol∣la's death, so he offered himself to act it, and propounded for that per∣formance, to give him a lingering poyson, which should be so slow in operation, that the world should rather believe he dyed by his own me∣lancholly, than by Hannibals resentments. This the Carthaginian having approved, he and Oristes separated themselves, the former to make some publick dispatches, and the latter with a design instantly to execute the result of that meeting. But the gods which detested so dark a sin, pre∣vented it by a way as strange, as was the intended design it self; for the gal∣lant Maharbal, General of the Carthaginian Horse, who all the preceding night, had been putting things in a posture for the Armies march, came to Hannibals house, the self-same evening and time in which he was visit∣ing me, where learning, that his General was in an employment, which commonly was of no small continuance, and being somewhat sleepy, flung himself upon Hannibals Bed, which was not strange, because of that great familiarity that was always betwixt them, where he slept till the Cartha∣ginians and Oristes coming in, did wake him, and before that he had time to rise, they had lock'd the door, and began this horrid consultation.

Maharbal, whose Genius was only inclined to War, detested the contrary humour in his General, which by experiment he found, had been alrea∣dy so destructive to the Carthaginian Common-wealth; This made him listen attentively, in hope to discover some of those contrivances which Hannibal kept so private, and which by his knowledge of them, might furnish him with a means to wean him from a passion he so much underva∣lued and detested; but at length hearing so black a Resolve, he deter∣mined to prevent what he condemned, but did not think the best way to effect it, was to discover what he knew, which he believed, would ra∣ther make his General ashamed, than penitent; therefore, as soon as he and Oristes were gone, he himself retired to his own house, and not know∣ing how soon that Traitor would execute his resolution, he immediate∣ly called for one of his own Liveries, which being brought him, and ha∣ving enjoyn'd the bringer of it an inviolable secrecy, he went immediate∣ly, (as his custom was) to visit Perolla, being attended by twenty of his Domesticks all in one Livery, (as is the Carthaginian fashion,) where find∣ing Perolla alone, he generously acquainted him with his danger, and presenting him with his Livery, advis'd him to put it on, and at his going out, to shuffle himself amongst his Servants, which none of the Guards durst examine, or would suspect.

For this transcendent favour Perolla made him as many returns, as his gratitude could inspire him withal, and the time permit; and indeed he was so eloquent in his retributions, that not only Maharbal ingag'd him∣self to acquaint me with his escape, but also to make Oristes receive from Hannibal himself, the punishment of his Treachery and Wickedness, Im∣mediately therefore, (as soon as Perolla was drest) Maharbal (whose ser∣vants attended him at the door) went out of Perolla's Chamber, and amongst the rest, was lighted down by him, who no sooner got out of Oristes house (who all this while was at a Physitians, preparing his fatal poyson) then with the help of the word Maharbal gave him, he got too out of the Samnite Gate; and his generous deliverer, not only by a visit next day, assur'd me of his escape, but also so incens'd Hannibal against Oristes at it, (whose jealousie of his connivance at his flight, he so increas'd, by putting him in mind of his pressing importunities, to have him his pri∣soner) that in the heighth of that rage, he gave order to put Oristes to death, which he knowing was both unavoidable and just, as being an ef∣fect of that contract which had past betwixt Hannibal and him, when Perolla was committed to his charge, to disburden his Conscience, he sent me privately in writing, a large relation of all those particulars which I was ignorant of, and then receiv'd the stroke of death in his own Cham∣ber, by his Command, for whom he had so wickedly employ'd his life. 'Twas in this sort that Perolla 'scap'd a treachery, which fill'd him with so legitimate and high a resentment against him, which had at least allow∣ed it, that from that time he contracted an implacable aversion for him, and resolv'd the first Battel the Romans fought, to tye himself so particularly to Hannibal, that nothing but his own death should prevent his Rivals. In order to this determination, he went directly to Marcellus, from whose active courage, he expected an earlier opportunity to put his resolution in practice, than from Crispinus (his Colleague;) I need not tell you the great satisfaction the gallant Marcellus receiv'd at Perolla's arrival, you may in some degree imagine it by his saying, he esteem'd his single cou∣rage, and conduct, a greater re-inforcement to his Army, than the ad∣dition of the best Roman Legion, and he was confident, Hannibal valu'd

it at no less a rate. After these Civilities, the Consul offer'd him any preferment in his Army, and conjur'd him not to decline the Command of General of his Horse, (which then was vacant by the death of Marcus Aulius,) but my generous friend, who was more ambitious of revenge than preferment, and who suspected that Office would confine him to a certain Duty, and thereby frustrate his design upon Hannibal, absolutely declin'd Marcellus offer, by assuring him, that he had better proporti∣on'd his ambition to his desert, and consequently desir'd no greater ho∣nor, than to serve under him as a Volunteer. The Consul was extream∣ly griev'd at this refusal, for he would gladly have bound to him a person he justly admir'd; but yet he us'd Perolla with the same respect, as if he had taken so considerable an employment; for in all attempts, and in all counsels, he would do nothing without his advice and assistance, and if in things of action he was abundantly satisfied with his Courage, in those of Counsel he was no less with his Judgement. But Hannibal (whose rage at Perolla's escape is fitter for imagination than description) hear∣ing that he had retir'd himself to Marcellus Army, immediately put his into a posture to attempt the ruine of his publique and particular Ene∣my, but before he quitted Salapia, he came to visit me, and perceiving my joy in my face, it inflam'd his to such a degree, that for a good while his choller was unlegible in any thing else; but at length he told me, Ma∣dam, I see with what satisfaction you consider my trouble, and that my misery is the subject of your contentment, but I hope my patience at it, will instruct yours, or at least induce you not to condemn in another, what you practise your self; For know, I am going to sacrifice a person which my Respect and your Tears hinder'd me hitherto from perform∣ing, and which by his flight you think has escap'd for ever; but you shall find, if my ambition only inspir'd me with a resolution that has near sub∣verted the Roman Empire; my Revenge and my Passion will give me strength enough to destroy a Subject of it, which being perform'd, I will enjoy you legitimately, or if your perverseness decline that honor, I will satisfy my Flame by an easier, though not so pleasing a way; and believe me, did not your coldness render my Revenge a greater Passion than my Love, I would suspend the former to satisfy the latter; besides, having taken you first from Perolla, to kill him, would rather appear an obligation, than a punishment. These words deliver'd with an accent as barbarous as themselves were, banish'd all my patience, and made me tell him: Thou Monster (greater than thy Countrey Africk did ever yet pro∣duce) know, that the same gods which preserved Perolla from thy rage, when thou hadst the power to act it, will do the like now thou hast only the design: he never feared any thing of thee but thy Treachery, and if thou makest use but of thy own Arm to perform thy revenge, thou wilt sooner furnish him with the means to effect his, than create my fear of thine. For my particular be assured, that I will cast my self into the Arms of death, far rather than into Hannibals; that I have as great a de∣testation for being thy Wife, as thou hast for Virtue, and that the same minute in which thou attempst my chastity, if nothing else will preserve me, I will free my self from life, to do the like from thee.

You shall see (the Carthaginian replyed) that 'tis easier for Hannibal to act than to threaten, and at his return he will make you know the great∣ness of his Passion, by his resentments for your neglecting it. He left me, (saying these words) and the same day Salapia, but in it, a select Garri∣son of Lybians, rather to keep me than it. Their Commander was one of

his trustiest Captains, who he inviolably protested, should answer for me in torments and death. This Tyrant was no sooner on his march, than some of my Servants having informed Blacius I was fallen into such abun∣dant weepings, that unless they were stopt, they might extinguish my life; his goodness for a while suppressing his aversion, he came to visit me, and being acquainted with those threatenings the Carthaginian had made against my chastity▪ he only told me, that he would prevent or not see my wrongs. I knew not what interpretation to give that profession, till not long after, I heard one night a horrid noise in all the streets, and the next morning saw them paved with the dead Carkasses of Hannibals Garrison; my Father then coming again to see me, all hideous with Bloud, assured me, that Hannibal now might threaten, but had not the power to act his impiety, and that he expected, since for my preservation he had un∣dertaken so great a hazard, that my duty would be resembling his care. I too well knew those words related to my passion for Perolla, which since the impossibility of declining, was as great as the injustice; I thought, that as my silence was the best way of expres••ing my resent∣ments for his affection, so it was the civilest of assuring him of my legiti∣mate obedience: I know not whether he imputed it to my respect, or my wilfulness, for he went away without speaking one word, which might be as pertinently attributed to his satisfaction, as his a••ger. Four days af∣ter, the Senate sent a solemn Embassy to him, to congratulate his success, and to furnish him with a Garrison to secure it. Though this soon came to Hannibals knowledge, yet he was necessitated by the Pretor Cneius Fulvius, besieging the City Herdonea, to suspend a while his design upon Marcellus and Perolla; but to appease so many Lybian Ghosts as were lost in Salapia; and perhaps, the loss of Izadora had some share in that fury, he offered the unfortunate Pretor Battel, whose courage being greater than his judgement, accepted it, and by that fault, was rendred uncapable of ever committing any other, being killed by Twelve of his Tribunes, and the most of his Army. That unhappy Plain near Herdon••a, proved an unfortunate Theatre for the Fluvius's, two of them in one year, both Pretors, and both Generals, received the same fat•• in the same place, by the Carthaginian; who raised by this accession of Glory, march'd directly to Venusia, where Marcellus and Crispinus were joyned, the better to op∣pose their common Enemy. But because I have not undertaken Hannibal's but Perolla's Story, I will pass over all those memorable accidents which happened that active Summer, by telling you that Hannibal knowing As∣drabal his Brother (as well in Glory as in Bloud) had crost France, and was coming to him with neer 100000 men, as a Torrent to throw down all opposition, declined a Battel, though often provok'd to it by Mar∣cellus, who being not ignorant of the danger of two such Men and Ar∣mies joyning, thought himself always too far from his Enemy, if not fight∣ing with him, resolved to remove his Camp to a Hill covered with Wood, which lay betwixt his and Hannibals, and not suspecting his Fate, took Crispinus (his fellow Consul) with him, 200 Hetrurian Horse, for their Guard, and went to view the commodiousness of the place, where (alas) there lay in ambush above 1500 Numidian Horse, who invironing those unfortunate Generals, charged them with so much fury, that all those false or timerous Hetrurians, fled, and left the two Consuls no hope, but by a glorious death, to justify how unworthy they were of so private a one, and that Rome without losing a Battel, might resent as high a grief, as such a loss could inspire. Perolla (as the gods would have it) had been

that night upon a Party, and was not returned when the Consuls went to perform so fatal a curiosity; but he was no sooner come into his Tent, than the Alarm of their danger was given by a timerous Hetrurean, which Perolla understanding, took the first horse he met with, and ran full speed to the Theatre, where this Tragedy was acting, and where the first ob∣ject he saw was a Numidian Officer, that coming behind Marcellus, ran that great Man through with his Launce; but though my generous friend could not prevent, yet he reveng'd his Death, and by a furious blow sent that Affrican into the other world, to see how great his Virtues were, whom he had so treacherously kill'd in this.

Perolla having thus sacrific'd his Generals Murtherer to his Manes, he re∣scued first the young Marcellus (his Son) and then perceiving that Cris∣pinus was pierc'd with two Darts, and thereby render'd uncapable any longer to defend himself, he abandon'd his own Horse, and vaulting up behind the Consuls, upheld his tottering Body with one Arm, and with the other forc'd his passage through a hundred Numidian Swords, and brought him into the Roman Camp, where their fears had so far clouded their judgements, that they only remembred, but did not relieve their Consuls danger: Never Rome had at once a resembling misfortune, and ne∣ver was that Empire in worse condition to sustain it; and though Han∣nibal was more satisfied at Marcellus death, than he could have been at the cutting in pieces of the Roman Army without it, yet he was so generous as to be content with the joy, without giving any open demonstration of it: For he first wept the fall of so eminent a person, then in a military pomp burnt his Body, and having put the Ashes in a Silver Urn, and on it a Crown of Gold, he sent it in great state, with a condoling Letter, to the young Marcellus, and executed some Numidians for offering (by the way) to rob Marcellus Reliques of a Crown, which his noble Life, and valiant Death so justly merited. Spartacus was extreamly satisfied to observe that Izadora's resentments did not silence her justice, and that though she were an Enemy to Hannibal, yet that she was not so to his Fame and Vir∣tue. But (she continu'd) though Crispinus was mortally wounded, yet his care for the publique was as great, as if he had been to live and en∣joy the effects of it. As an evincement of this Truth, he sent certain Spies into the Affrican Camp, to learn what advantage the Enemy pro∣pounded to himself by his success: these perform'd their employment so happily, that they brought the Consul word, that Hannibal having an unextinguishable desire to be reveng'd on the Salapians, and having too, by the possession of Marcellus Seal, which with his body remain'd in the Victors power, found an expedient to effect it. He had sent false Letters with the true Signet to Blacius, in the dead Consuls name, to let him know, that that night he would come to Salapia, and commanded all the Garrison to be in Arms without the Samnite Gate, for some exploit he in∣tended to employ them in. Crispinus no sooner receiv'd this intelligence, than he sent for Perolla to communicate it to him, and knowing those concerns he had for the preservation of this place, gave him Commission to command the Garrison, till Hannibal had lost the hopes of taking it. Perolla declin'd it, because Blacius was Governor, but the Consul told him, that it was not to intrench on my Fathers authority, but to strengthen him in it; for he was confident, Hannibals assault would be so vigorous, that Blacius could not but think so powerful an assistant, a blessing rather than an affront, and that he was no true friend to Rome, if for a tempo∣rary suspension of his power, he hazarded so important a place. Perolla

finding Crispinus was unalterable, took Horse, and with that speed which Love and Revenge inspires, came to Salapia, where he soon found the truth of the Consuls intelligence, and that all the Garrison were drawing out of the Samnite Gate, which was the opposite one to that which Han∣nibal intended to enter at, and though by his authority he might have hinder'd the Soldiers march, yet he bore so great a respect to Blacius, that he declin'd it, and rather elected to hazard the ruine of Salapia, by not stopping them, than prevent it by intrenching on the seeming right my Fa∣ther had, who (he was inform'd) was at his own house, where he lighted, and coming in, found him with some of his intimate friends (and his unfortunate Daughter) discoursing what might be the subject of Marcel∣lus design. But O gods! what was my astonishment at the sight of Perolla? truly it was so transcending, that I observ'd neither Blacius's nor his, but the latter being a little supprest, he addrest himself to my Father, acquaint∣ed him with the fatal news, the cause of his coming, and then presented him his Commission, which whilst Blacius was viewing, Perolla and I were doing the like to each other, for we durst not express our thoughts, but by our Eyes; yet that silent language was as significant and legible, as Perolla's Commission, which Blacius had no sooner read, than he whose it was, told him, Sir, the Consul shall bear me witness, that I declin'd this Authority when 'twas offer'd me, and all Salapia shall do the like, now I have receiv'd it; and if I expect to derive any advantage from it, 'tis on∣ly to shew you, that I esteem it a greater justice to obey than command you; thereupon, without staying for Blacius's answer, in all our sights he tore his Commission in pieces. I cannot tell you how great an in∣fluence this generosity had on all of us: But my Father (who a good while ballanc'd betwixt his natural aversion, and present cause for sup∣pressing it) told Perolla, your generosity is not only greater than I could expect, but than I could desire from an Enemy, and you had more obli∣ged me, in using your Authority, than in thus declining it; but though you esteem it just, that I should command in my own Government, yet since the Consul does not, I am rather inclined to conform my self to his opinion than yours.

Alas Sir (Perolla reply'd) must I be still so miserable, as to bear a Name which I have no title to? and which I detest; and will you attribute that to your place, which I pay to you? No no, Sir, all the World shall be Sa∣lapia to me, and the Senate cannot give you so absolute a power over me, as my inclination does. You are more civil to me, (said Blacius) than the Consul is, and I think 'tis my Fate to be obliged, where I desire it not, and to be injured where I expect the contrary; but since you are resol∣ved not to Command in Chief, I will imitate your example; let us therefore divide our selves and the Garrison, and each of us take his half of Salapia to defend. I had rather (Perolla reply'd) be near your Per∣son, that you might see with how little fear (to preserve your life) I will expose mine own, which I take the gods to witness, is not dearer to me upon any score, than out of a belief that it may be serviceable to you. To convince you (said Blacius) that the tearing of your Com∣mission has not taken away its power, you shall (as an effect of it) chuse where, and how you will fight; but if my honor were not now engaged to defend this place, the Romans should know, that the same instant in which they thought me unfit to command Salapia, that I esteemed my self so, to live in it. If the Romans, (answered Perolla) are so unjust to them∣selves, and you, as to think you unworthy to govern, what you so gene∣rously

have conquered, I shall think them so of my service, and will em∣brace your interest with so just a passion, that if the Senate send any to usurp upon your Valour's Conquest, I will oppose every Roman, as if he were an Hannibal, and either preserve you in your Command, or not live to see you out of it. Come (said Blacius, without seeming to hear this last civility) let us go, and make Hannibal know, that at Salapia he shall have as little progress in glory, as in love. Blacius had no sooner said these words, than he went away, and Perolla (who durst not but ac∣company him) was necessitated to signify his discontent for not daring to speak to me by a deep sigh, which was the language too I exprest mine in; but as soon as my Father was informed, that all the Garrison was without the Samnite Gate, and that though Perolla had met them, yet he had so dangerously declined making use of his authority, he turned about to a familiar friend of his, and told him softly; I fear Pacuvius Son will force me to be an enemy to Virtue, if I prove any longer so to him. I need not tell you all the preparatives that were made to receive Hannibal, who about an hour before day, came to the Brutian Gate, (which was Blacius and Perolla's Post) where the Forlorn-Hope of his Army, con∣sisting of six hundred Runnagate Romans, (the better to disguise the busi∣ness) were admitted int the Gate, and some three hundred Carthaginian Horse after them, who were all no sooner enter'd, than the Percullis was let down, and my Father with Perolla, breaking out of those Houses and Courts, they had lodg'd themselves in, gave the Enemy so brisk and un∣expected a charge, that above half of them were cut in pieces, before the residue could put themselves in a posture to dispute their own lives, or revenge their companions deaths. I will not amuse my self to tell you the particulars of this action, 'tis sufficient you know that Crastinus, who commanded the revolted Romans, knew his crime was uncapable of mer∣cy, and therefore resolved to render his death famous enough, to excuse the faults of his life: This made him conjure his Companions so generously to dispute the business, as to make the Salapians never mention their defeat, but in as many Tears, as if they themselves had dy'd what they were born. This Traitor acted without his Companions what he desired of them, by killing with his own hand, five of the most considerable Sa∣lapians, and then by assaulting Blacius, where Fortune seconding Crasti∣nus despair, he had certainly ended my Fathers life, had not Perolla pre∣served it by putting a period to that Traitors; but yet Blacius received so deep a wound, that fainting, he was carried by Perolla, and his other friends, unto his own house, where, lest he might think the generous Pe∣rolla would take any advantage of visiting me, (by his weakness) he im∣mediately withdrew him••elf to the Brutian Gate, and there found the Combat renewed by a Carthaginian Commander, who performed exploits, as far above belief, as description: This Enemy Perolla had the honour singly to fight with, for most of the Garrison were searching those houses where any of Hannibals Soldiers had taken Sanctuary, and others took upon them the same employment, that it might be thought the following execution (and not their fear) hinder'd their assaulting so valiant an Ene∣my, who by this time had so over-haras'd himself, that Perolla who had more inclination to preserve, than destroy so admirable a valour, took occasion (by hearing a division of Horse came trampling up the Street) to offer him Quarter; for he thought his Enemy was too gallant to re∣sign his liberty to a single Sword, having still his own in his hand to dis∣pute it; neither was he deceived in his conjecture, for the other was so far

from listening to a surrender, or being terrified at that Troop, which was coming towards him, that he replyed; Whosoever thou art, that to give me a good opinion of thy civility, assurest me, thou hast an ill one of my courage; know, that I shall be more pleased to receive death, than safe∣ty from my Enemies; and have more cause to be joyed, than troubled at this assistance which is near thee, for I would not have Maharbal curst with so low a Fate as to fall by one Enemy, which the arrival of so ma∣ny, will I hope, prevent. Oh gods! (said Perolla, extreamly surpriz'd) are you then the generous Maharbal? I am what I told thee (he reply'd) but lest my being so ill-accompanied, might induce thee to suspect the con∣trary, or that by naming my self thou shouldst think I intend my preserva∣tion; I will by a generous death, hinder thee from justly assuming that thought; but whilst those I elect for my Executioners are coming, let me know (I be seech thee) who thou art that giv'st me so advantagious a Title? Alas (Sir) said my generous friend, my Name is much fitter to be conceal'd than known; it may wound you more than my Sword has done, and perhaps I shall be less injurious in declining than obeying your Commands; but yet, that you may learn 'twas my ignorance made my offence, and that I persevere not willingly in the former, to continue the latter; know I am called Perolla, that same Perolla, whom you so generously reveng'd on the false Oristes, who would lose his life for you, as he ows it to you, and who now thinks your preserving him a misfortune, since thereby he has lift up his prophane Arm against his generous Deliverer; but that you may see I am unfortunate, and not ungrateful, Here, Sir (said Perolla, pre∣senting him his Sword) this cannot make reparation for what it has acted, but by becoming the Sword of Justice, and by spilling some criminal Bloud, for having shed so much innocent. Mabarbal was as surpriz'd at this Gallantry, as at the knowledge of him that performed it; and being a Prince, as great in Virtue as in Title, and as loath to be vanquish'd in civility, as fight, having passionately embrac'd Perolla, and as absolute∣ly declin'd his Present, told him, If I had been kill'd as well as I am con∣quer'd by your Sword, and that you had known who 'twas you destroyed, your injustice (yet) had been as great as your courage; For my attempt∣ing to surprize a place for Hannibal, where your Izadora is, deserves that Fate: But if you will credit to profession which my actions seem to con∣tradict, I do protest before those gods which punish perjury, that when I could not obtain Hannibals permission to decline this attempt, I put my self at the head of our first Troops, that if we had been victo∣rious, I might have conveyed your Mistriss from his passion, or revenge, for both now seem so equally powerful, that 'tis difficult to know which of them is the most. But it seems, the gods would have Izadora derive her safety, only from him, from whom she does her felicity, and I attest those Powers, that I am more pleased with our defeat, than I could have been at our victory, and if I resent any trouble at it, it is to be found in a po∣sture, wherein I must be wholly bound to your goodness, not to be con∣cluded your Enemy as much as I am your Prisoner, which is a Fate I willingly embrace, for I count it as little a dishonour to be vanquisht by Perolla, as 'tis a great one, to be so by any other.

I should be (Perolla hastily replyed, because those Horse were so neer) as much an Enemy to my contentment in believing you were so to me, as to Virtue, did I accept of my Protector for my Prisoner; (No gene∣rous Maharbal) I assure you you are free, and if you will be pleased to take off the Carthaginian, and put on Roman Colours, till I have disposed of

this Troop, you shall find I will turn my promises into action, and that where I have any power, it shall be still employed to evidence a grati∣tude, which cannot be greater than what creates it. The Salapians were by this so near, that Maharbal wanted time to answer this civility, and had scarce pulled off his own Scarfe, and taken his friends, before they were come up; Perolla immediately commanded them to follow him out of the Brutian Gate, to discover whether any of the Enemy were yet about the Walls, which they were no sooner out of, than he desired Maharbal in ci∣vilities proportionate to the favour, to make use of that occasion to re∣turn to the Carthaginian Army. Maharbal embrac'd the opportunity and him that gave it him, to whom he said, I am sorry (generous Perolla) that I must receive an obligation from you, which I must not publish, but be sure, though I am silent I am not ungrateful, and that I shall remember what I dare not speak of, nor hope to requite. That (said Perolla) which is the subject of your sorrow, is of my contentment, since it lets you see I ambition no other glory in serving you, than that of doing so. 'Twas in as many expressions of this quality, as the time would permit, that Mahar∣bal and Perolla took leave of one another, the first immediately over∣took the Carthaginian Army, which he discovered by the help of the day, that then began to dawn, and the last seemed to have received satisfaction in what he never doubted, returned into Salapia by the contrary Port, to that through which he went out of it, and then not staying to dress so much as some slight hurts, he received in the Combat, and from Mahar∣bal, he came to visit Blacius, where having given him an exact account of all things but his own gallantry against his Enemies; and to his friend he desired to receive his Commands, if he had any to impose on him, for he was determined immediately to return to the Roman Camp, lest a longer stay might raise in him a suspition that he came for some other intent, than the honor of his service. This fresh evincement of affection, wrought so powerfully on a heart which was already ballancing, that it intirely dissi∣pated that aversion, which till then my Father had contracted for him; and to publish a change, which he thought too just to be conceal'd, he told Perolla; You have made your Virtue too well known, to let your professions need a demonstration to prove their truth; No, generous Perolla, I do acknowledge you have vanquisht me, and by such noble Arms, that I am as well satisfied with my defeat, as you can be with your victory; whose reward shall be Izadora, as soon as you get Pacuvius con∣sent to be hers; for whom I have upon your score, banisht all my hatred, and whose friendship I will meet with open Arms: go then and perswade him to confer it on me, but before your departure, let your Izadora know of that conversion which her Tears, and your Virtue have produc'd. Oh gods! who can tell those raptures this declaration cast Perolla into? you may in some measure guess at their greatness, when so excellent a wit found silence the best way of expressing them; but though his Tongue was unimployed, yet he was not, for he flung himself upon his knees by Blacius bed-side, kist, and washt his hands with Tears of joy, and by a thousand such extravagancies, was more eloquent and grateful, than he could possibly have been in words, which I beleeve you cannot doubt, when I assure you that thereby he so moved my Father, that he answered him in weepings of the same quality. I will not tell you those few ex∣pressions Perolla made after his first irregularities were ended, for they were so dis-joynted, that had not my Father been perfectly acquainted with his excellent Judgement, he might have believed he had oblig'd a

mad, and not a grateful man. At last the Physitians pe••ceiving how ill an influence his concernment and joy might have upon his distemper'd Body, desir'd Perolla to take his leave, which he immediately did, and to whom my Father again repeated his engaements, and having embrac'd him, and kist his Cheek (a high mark of friendship amongst the Romans) he commanded one of his Servants to conduct him to my Chamber: when he was come to the door, he sent in, to know whether his visit might not prove an offence? I must acknowledge I was infinitely surpriz'd at this Message, and that which contributed most unto it, was, that he which deliver'd it, was one of my Fathers exactest observers of my acti∣ons: but he perceiving my astonishment, and not willing any should suppress it but Perolla, ask'd me (smiling) if I would permit him to come in. This indeed, made me suspect his insolency (not his joy) was the cause of it, and that he was employ'd by Blacius, to learn, whether during his weakness I would admit of Perolla's visits, and in this belief I was upon the point of seeming to decline what I so passionately desir'd, and of pay∣ing one dissimulation with another: but at last Perolla's Messenger, who fancied the subject of my disorder, told me, That since I was silent to his proposal, he would take it for my yielding to it, and immediately brought him in, who soon prostrated himself on his knees, and did nothing for a time but embrace mine: this brought a great accession to my first astonish∣ment, which yet was rais'd higher by his saying, Madam, I shall hardly any more exclaim against Hannibal, since he has now more oblig'd, than ever injur'd me, for he has furnisht me with an occasion to conquer an Enemy I much more apprehend than himself; yes Madam, Blacius has been so generous as to consider my desires, as if they had been actions, for the rewards he has given mine, are too disproportionate a return for any thing else: I believe, Madam, you cannot doubt after this declaration, but 'tis you I intend, a gift as far above my hopes, as merit. Thereupon he acquainted me with all that my Father had promis'd him, and then continu'd;) But, fair Izadora, may I not fear the knowledge you have of your self, and of Perolla, may induce you to condemn his injustice, and my ambition, or that you created these hopes in me, only out of a con∣fidence, that it would never be in your power to convert them into re∣alities?

No, no (said I, interrupting him) be not injurious to your self, to be the like unto me, for I nere gave you expectations out of an opinion that they would never change that name; for believe me, my Fathers consent can only render legitimate, not increase my flame, which was uncapable of addition since I knew you, and shall be of diminution while you are of inconstancy. Ah Madam (he reply'd) why did not the gods, when they destin'd me this felicity, furnish me with Vertue to deserve it? but since my defects are but indearings of my joy, by making me derive my contentment from your inclinations (a nobler cause than merit can be) I will silence my Complaints, and fix all my endeavours to enthrone my self in a condition of being uncapable of any desires, by being so of any wants; Yes Madam, I will use such means to Pacuvius, that he shall not de∣ny his Honor and my Happiness, or if he does, the same minute in which heprives me of my hope, I will him of his Son: for my condition admits of nothing but extreams, and I am destin'd (since you have permitted it to my ambition) by possessing Izadora to relish no misery, or by death, to feel none. If (said I) this be your resolve, I shall think your obtain∣ing Blacius consent a misfortune, since thereby he has put in your Fathers

power that hates, to ruine you: Ah Perolla, you shall not leave me with such cruel and irrational intentions: Pacuvius by denying your content∣ment, will declare himself your Enemy, so that your destroying one which bears that Title, is rather to please, than to be revenged on him: Will you punish Izadora for your Fathers Crime? and will you make me miserable, because he makes himself unjust? No Perolla, rather live, and shew him by an undisturb'd serenity, thatsince he has divested himself of the nature of a Father, you have suspended the relations of a Son, and till he as∣sumes the former, that you can la•• aside the latter; for the gods expect not we should pay obedience to the name of a Father, where he banish∣es the relation and care of one, and from a preserver, becomes a destroy∣er of his Son. I conjure you therefore, before our separation, promise me inviolably, that whatsoever Pacuvius usage be, you dispose not without my consent, of a life which cannot cease, but by Izadora's bearing it company, to whom you have a thousand times given it, and from whom you cannot take it, without an equal injustice to the highest that your Father is capable of; besides, I believe, that Blacius (who now looks up∣on your Virtues and Actions, with an unprejudicate opinion) will give that to them singly, which yet he seems to desire, might be accompanied with Pacuvius's consent. Madam (said Perolla) if the apprehensions of his cruelty, made me pretend to any right over a Life which I have gi∣ven you, and of which I again confirm the gift, I do acknowledge it an usurpation, which you rather reward than punish, when you declare 'tis yours, and that you have so transcendent a care of it: yes, fair Izadora, I will obey your Commands with as much willingness as justice, and beg you to believe, that whilst my life is dear unto you, it shall be so to me, and that I will never undertake to dispose of it, as long as it bears the glorious Title of yours. I know (continu'd Izadora) that had not Perolla's nature been of an admirable temper, my Fathers former proceedings might have rais'd some jealousies in him, that what he would have had taken for an effect of his Gratitude, was one of his Malice, and that turning him over to Pacuvius's consent, here mov'd his hopes to as great a distance as ever, and did it too to make Perolla contract a higher hatred for his Fa∣ther, by declining what his very Enemy seem'd to confer upon him; but his generosity was so perfect, that he has often protested those imaginati∣ons were as little on his Heart as his Tongue. To hasten to a conclusion, that morning, after I had inform'd Perolla of all things which had arriv'd me since our separation, and of those barbarous threatenings Hannibal made against my Honor (which inflam'd him with an unextinguishable revenge) he left me, and having again kist my Fathers hands, he return'd to the Roman Camp, in expectation to obtain from the Consul a Pardon for Pacuvius revolt, and an Order to enjoy his Estate in Salapia and Capua, which might give his generous Son a safe, opportunity to implore his consent. For he being then at Tarentum (a Garrison of the Enemies) he durst not trust himself to Hannibal's and his Fathers resentments, but at his coming to Crispinus, he found him on the point of yielding up the Ghost, which he did some few hours after, having first writ to the Senate an ample and just Letter in his praise, which did no little contribute to the immediate chusing of Clodius Nero, Consul, who had married Pacu∣vius's Sister, the other Consul was Marcus Livius, whom the People had formerly banisht, and whose Service they now implor'd, (a Fate com∣mon to ungrateful States and Princes,) who not learning Gratitude

rom Virtue, must be taught it from Necessity. The first thing which Nero perform'd was an unfortunate justice to Porolla's Gallantry, which has been the source of our second Miseries; for he so truly and so high∣ly extoll'd the whole series of his Nephews actions, and particularly that last, of preserving Salapia, (which came to his knowledge by Fame, and not by the Actor) that he procur'd a congratulatory Letter to him from the Senate, which was a favour he declin'd for Blacius, though his wounds spake his fidelity and courage, which he would not permit his words to do, lest the world might believe, he esteem'd his Eloquence greater than his performances. This action of the Consuls, whether it proceeded from his embracing the interest of his Family, above that of the State, or the design he had thereby to break that new contracted Friendship betwixt Perolla and Blacius, or his ignorance of the latters generosity in that action, I cannot certainly determine; but this (alas) I too well know, that my Father receiv'd such deep impressions of his slighting, which his own friends perswaded him was an effect of Perolla's being more ambi∣tious of Glory, than of his Daughter, and which Pacuvius's on the other side fomented and concurr'd in, to break an union, which their heredi∣tary malice made them detest, that Blacius, who was not so perfectly reco∣vered of his aversion for Perolla, as to be uncapable of a relapse, imme∣diately tore from his Heart a Friendship, which began but to take root: for his spirit was too high to preserve a good opinion for one, which both his Friends and his Enemies acknowledg'd, was greedier of a little Fame, than of Justice, his esteem or alliance. O gods! (said Izadora, raising her voice) could you find out nothing but Perolla's virtue, to be the cause of Perolla's destruction? a misery so much the greater, by how much since that provok'd you, it was impossible for him ever to do othewise. But Sir (she continu'd, addressing still her discourse to Spartacus) Pardon (I beseech you) a digression, which the sense of our succeeding misfortunes extorted from me, which began by Blacius, commanding me to banish from my Heart a Flame that was not to be extinguisht, but with my life. That cruel Injunction had like to have effected both, but I pre∣serv'd the latter, because it was inseparable from the former, and though I represented Perolla's innocency, as clear as it was, yet Blacius passion had so clouded his judgement, that like a false Optick, it represent∣ed all objects to be of the same colour of the Glass which was lookt through; and indeed I deriv'd nothing from my attempts, but the rais∣ing of his hatred for me, instead of suppressing his for Perolla; whose trouble I judg'd by my own, and therefore was almost as much perplext to let him know my Fathers change, as I was at it: at length I deter∣min'd by my silence, to preserve him as long (as might be) from the knowledge of his misfortunes, in expectation that some favourable ac∣cident might intervene, which would restore Blacius to his justice, and so Perolla might avoid knowing he had been unfortunate, till he were so no longer; but (alas) out of an apprehension of creating his trou∣ble, I continued it, for by not letting him know my Fathers suspiti∣ons, I denied him the means of suppressing them; and Blacius not ascribing his silence to his ignorance of his displeasure, but to a con∣trary cause, so confirmed himself in his jealousies, that the aversion they produced, has been ever since unremoveable.

But in this proceeding I could not be more faulty to Perolla, than I was obliging to Rome, which by his continuing ignorant of what was past,

received a benefit from his Valor, that perhaps it had fail'd of, had I acquainted him with his misfortunes; for I believe they would have ne∣cessitated him to have made use of all that courage to struggle with him, which ignoring he employed against Hannibal; for 'twas he that under Nero drave him from the Salentines, and Apulians, into the Country of the Brutians; 'twas he which was the chief Actor in those famous exploits at Grumentum, and Venusia; and 'twas he that rendred it impossible for Han∣nibal to march any further than Canusium, to join with his Brother Asdru∣bal, who having left the Government of Spain to his Brother Mago, and Asdrubal the son of Gesco, had already crost the Perenean Mountains, all Gaul, and the Alpes, and had with a powerful recruit of Lygurians laid siege to Placentia: The Consuls on this intelligence, drew lots who should oppose this Torrent, and it fell to Livius, who with near 50000 Horse and Foot, went to meet so redoubted an Enemy. Asdrubal informed of it, raises his siege, to shorten the Consuls march; who having thereby reliev∣ed his Friends, was very wary how he dealt with his Enemies; and though he left Rome to take possession of his Command, he told the great Fabius, (who advised him to protract the War) that he was resolved to fight the very first day, being impatient till he recoverd his honour by a Victory; or by seeing the ruine of his unjust Countreymen, satisfie himself with the joy of a great (though not of an honest) Revenge; yet his intention was better than his words, for at a place of advantage, called Scaena-Gal∣lica, near the River of Metaurus, he pitcht his Camp, and by winning the Pass, hindred Asdrubal's progress, who by Letters advertised his Brother of it, that then lay on the Banks of Aufidus, near the same Plain of Cannes, (in which he had won his highest glory) and that in few dayes he would storm the Roman Generals Camp, rather than not join with him; but these being intercepted by Nero's Scouts, that Consul, by the advice of Perolla to relieve Livius's danger, took 6000 select Foot, and 1000 Horse, and ha∣ving left the charge of his Army (which Camp'd within 10 Furlongs of Hannibals) to Veturius Philo (his Lieutenant-General;) in six dayes, by tedious Marches, and with exceeding secresie, he came to his Collegue, and was received into his Camp by night, without enlarging it, or any loud de∣monstrations of joy; where, in a Council of War, it was resolved next day to give Asdrubal Battel, which Livius (though provok'd unto) had thitherto declined: The next morning therefore, a purple Coat was hung up over Livius's Pavilion, and Perolla, the better to delude Asdrubal, de∣sired the General that a Trumpet might sound in Nero's quarters, as well as in Portius the Pretors, to make the Enemy believe, that either Hannibal was defeated by the Consuls being joined, or that it was done in policy to supply the defects of their numbers; the first (if credited) would in∣vite them immediately to a Battel, which (next to a Victory) was most in their desires. This was much approved, and readily practised, and As∣drubal, who was perfectly acquainted with the Roman Discipline, was ex∣tremely surprized at it; but yet attributing it to the latter, and perceiving (by the Signal) the Consuls resolution, he joyfully drew his Army in Bat∣talia, but then perceiving Livius's numbers to be increast, and that some of his Enemies Horses look'd as if they had performed a long march, (this being an accident above his expectation) he esteemed it rather a policy, than a dishonour, to defer an Engagement, till he could discover the truth of that mystery; and in order to this, spent that day in slight skirmishes, and by night retreated with all his Army towards the River of Metaurus, from which the succeeding Battel took its name: but he was followed by

Nero and Perolla with all the Roman Cavalry, and so vigorously prest, that he resolved next morning to decide the difference by a pitch'd Battel, lest if he gained any advantage by retiring, it might be said a Victory was forc'd upon, and not obtained by him; and if he were defeated, that at least he dyed like Amilcar's Son, and Hannibal's Brother. The day no sooner dawn'd (which was the last that so many thousands were to see) than those two great Bodies, which consisted of about 150000 effective men, were drawn up in a posture to determine all disputes: The Carthaginian having the advantage of number, and the Roman of resolution, which was sufficiently ••vinc'd by their Enemies attending the Battel by necessity, and not election. Asdrubal placed his Gauls (in whom he least rely'd) in the Left Wing, upon a Hill of impossible access; in the Right, were his Spani∣ards, and Africans, and himself at the Head of them; his Lygurians form∣ed the Battel, and his Elephants he bestowed in the Front of his several Divisions. The Right Wing of the Roman Army was led by Nero, (who was accompanied by Perolla, that commanded those Thousand Horse his Uncle had brought with him) the Left by Livius, and the Battel by Por∣ticus. You cannot doubt the dispute was bloody, if either you reflect up∣on the courage of the Soldiers, the resolution and conduct of the Com∣manders, or the glory and advantages which were to attend the Con∣querors.

Livius found a generous resistance from the Africans and Spaniards; Porticus from the Lygurians; but Nero and Perolla found more difficulty to come to fight, than I believe they would after it, have found in obtain∣ing a Victory; but whil'st they were disputing against a Precipice, the sca∣ling of which was not much less difficult, than to scale the Clouds, the last of them perceiving what disorder Livius and Porticus were in, besought Nero to leave those Gauls to a security which Nature, and not their Coura∣ges had plac'd them in; and who by the strange height they were upon, were as uncapable of doing, as receiving harm, and that he would go to relieve the Consul and the Pretor. Nero soon found the justness of this motion, and imagining by the Precipice the Gauls were upon, that Asdru∣bal had plac'd them there, rather to amuse, than oppose him, yielded to his Nephews request, and leaving some 3000 Foot and Horse to keep the Gauls at gaze, followed him with all the rest; but Perolla, with admirable celeri∣ty, having fetcht a compass behind all the Roman Army, fell upon the Right Flank of the Carthaginian so opportunely, that 'twas when Livius was brought to the last exigency, and so vigorously, that by it he courted Vi∣ctory so handsomly, that though she were declaring for Carthage, yet he won her absolutely for Rome. The execution after the rout was excessive bloody, the Romans remembring how freely the Africans had opened their veins, were not ungrateful in their return. The Gauls too, found they had been more securely fortified by nature, than by 80000 of their com∣panions; and though the Roman Swords were almost dull'd with blood before they came to them, yet they 'scapt not absolutely that dayes Fate; but that which brought a large accession to the honour of this success, was the noble Asdrubal's fall, who perceiving his glory fled, resolv'd his life should accompany it, and seeking some gallant Enemy to end his, he found none which gave greater marks of that title than Perolla; 'twas therefore upon his Sword he resolv'd to receive it, and 'twas upon his Sword indeed that he found it. I know (continued Izadora) that some alledge he had his death from many an Enemy, and not from a single one, but I know withall that that report had its rise from Perolla's modesty, who learning

afterwards, how great a virtue he had kill'd, rather deplored, than gloried in the Action. This Battel of Metaurus equal'd that of Cannes, for in it were left 56000 upon the place, 5400 taken Prisoners, and 4000 Captive Romans releas'd. But if in a Relation which my Sex renders me ignorant in, I have failed in the former, I have not in the truth, for my concern in Perolla made me exactly learn it; neither would I have so particularly in∣form'd you of it, had it not so great a connexion to my generous Friends Story, that in declining it, I must have injured his Adventures, as much as his Glory.

The day after this famous Battel, Nero and Perolla march'd towards their Camp, observing the same silence and diligence in their return to it, that they had in their leaving of it, for they serv'd Hannibal, as we were infor∣med you did Varinus; and though he were a Captain as celebrated for his Policy, as his Conquests, yet in this expedition he never discover'd any light of Nero's march nor success, till he sent two Numidian Prisoners to ac∣quaint him with it; and lest that Testimony might not be authentick, he flung his Brothers (the gallant Asdrubals) head over his Trenches: which Barbarism Perolla so much resented, that not being able to hinder it, he abandon'd his Uncle, to manifest he detested the Action; and indeed it was the blacker, because Hannibal had alwayes given the bodies of his dead Enemies a Sepulture, and usage proportionate to their qualities and virtue whil'st they were alive. Yes (Sir) Perolla was so justly transport∣ed at this inhumanity, that though the Consuls in their Triumph for this Victory, besought him (who they acknowledg'd, under the Gods, ob∣tain'd it) to bear a share in his own Acquisitions; yet he absolutely de∣clin'd it, protesting that he was more asham'd at the use they had made of their Victory, than pleas'd at the glory of it; and that he declin'd parti∣cipating in their Triumph, lest it might be thought he did the like in their Crime. After this generosity he came to Salapia, where he vow'd, had not the Consuls cruelty (for Livius approv'd of what Nero had done to As∣drubal's Head) render'd it an injustice to have shar'd in their glorious en∣try into Rome; yet he had rather have declin'd the honour of it, than purchas'd it at the price of a longer absence. I must confess, I never, till that time, thought it was possible for Perolla's visits to become my misfor∣tune, but my hard Fate then rendred his so; and I believe my disclosing to him that which I could no longer conceal, was the more sensible by his be∣ing unprepared to receive the stroke, and by his belief that his new acces∣sion of glory, would have rendred his company the more acceptable to Blacius. Alas! I cannot tell you his extravagancies at so fatal and unex∣pected an intelligence, but I remember they were so exorbitant, that I sus∣pended awhile the reflection on my own griefs, that I might the more just∣ly deplore his. Blacius, being ignorant of his being with me, came to visit me, when my generous Friends resentments were in their highest operation; and though my Father, upon so unlookt for an Accident, would have re∣tired, yet Perolla hindred him, by casting himself on his knees, and em∣bracing of Blacius's. His sorrows for awhile were silent, which was no small proof of their vastness and reality; but when they got a passage, they were so eloquent, that had he been guilty, he had done enough to obtain his pardon; and being innocent, he did enough to evince he was so. Yet (alas!) my Father had so exquisitely fortified his heart against all assaults of this quality, that what should have vanquish'd him, turned to a testimony of his cruelty.

In brief, Perolla observing that Blacius relisht no reasons for his inno∣cency, resolved to convince him of it by a demonstration, and in the rage and grief of so unexpected a misery, he rose up, and with eyes (in which death were evidently painted) he cryed out, Farewel fair Izadora, I will go expect you in another world, for I see 'tis impossible to possess you in this; and since there is nothing but the loss of this unfortunate life, which can either appease your Fathers hatred, or clear my innocency, I am de∣termined at that rate to satisfie both. At the end of these fatal words, he drew out his Sword, and turning the Pomel to the ground, he had cast his Body upon the point of it, had not I struck the Hilt away time enough to prevent it; and he not suspecting anything of that nature, by falling all along, gave me time to take up his Sword before he rose, and to protest that if he abjur'd not all designs of so black a nature, I would immediately make use of that Weapon for my own destruction, which he had designed for his. Twas thus I preserved a Virtue so pure, that if the higher Powe••s do not reward it in this world, 'tis certainly because they reserve their recom∣pence for a place where all things are of a resembling quality; and because I so sav'd Perolla's life, Blacius considered that which was an evincement of his integrity, as a premeditated design to palliate and disguise his guilt; and though his words did not declare what I tell you, yet his actions did, for he instantly commanded my generous Friend to abandon his house, or he would act what I had prevented. Perolla, at this cruel and barbarous command, cryed out, O Gods! why do you render sufferings so necessary to my condition, and make me uncapable to bear them? (then turning to me, he continued) But, Madam, if you are not of your Fathers opi∣nion, as well as of his blood, I shall contemn as much his threatnings, as he does my affection and alliance; and shall find in the virtue of one of the Family, charms enough to defend me from he cruelties of all the rest.

Alas! (I replied, interrupting him) ar•• we come to that again, of ma∣king fresh assurances of constancy? And will you so highly injure the merit of my passion, as to render it as much an effect of my promise, as my inclination? Ah Perolla, be not so cruel, as to think my Fathers change is contagious, nor divest me of the consolation I have had in my past suffer∣ings, that they were undergone with resolution and patience enough, to suppress all jealousies in you, that I was capable of sinking in the future un∣der any burden of that nature. O Madam, (he replyed) why do you so infinitely injure my intentions? for my asking that question, was not to resolve my doubts, but to hear my joy repeated; neither can you condemn my imploring so strong a Preservative, when you see what misfortunes I am to struggle with. Blacius, who perceived what our entertainment was, having repeated his threatnings to Perolla, commanded me immediately to leave him; which, before I obeyed, I told Perolla, since your question pro∣ceeds from that cause, I shall as willingly satisfie it, as I should have been troubled to have done so on any other account; Know then, that if my Passion for you be a Preservative against your miseries, you shall be for ever uncapable of any; for your desires can give you so large a possession in my heart, as my affection does; and this justice is so far from being suscep∣tible of change, that the Gods, while they give me life and reason, are not able to alter it. My Father, at this assurance, thrust me out of the Room, but he to whom it was addrest, observing he could not have time enough to make me in words a retribution of my engagement, by lifting up his eyes and hands to those Powers I had mentioned, sufficiently confirmed me that his resolutions and flame were resembling unto mine. But (alas!)

my love for Perolla, had not that power he ascribed unto it; for though I had given him pregnant testimonies of the greatness and reality of it, yet Blacius's cruelty had so fatal an influence on him, which cast him into so dangerous and long a sickness, that for above half a year he was unable to leave his Chamber. I must acknowledge, during that time, I was obliged to my Fathers rigor; for 'twas by the strictness of his watches, that I was preserved from knowing so sensible a misfortune. But at last he recovered, and with his health assumed a resolution, that he would act such gallant things, as all the Roman Empire should make his particular satisfaction, or death, a publick concernment, but his design was a while suspended; for after the Battel of Metaurus, the Plague so violently raged both in the Roman and Carthaginian Armies, that we hardly knew who commanded the former; and the General of the latter spent that whole Summer near the Temple of Iuno Lucinia, in erecting a magnificent Altar, with a large Title of all his Actions in Punick and Greek Characters. But the same year was not unactive in Spain, where Publius Cornelius Scipio (who justly acquired by his glorious Victories in Africk, the Sirname of African) beat Asdru∣bal, the son of Gesgo, out of the Continent, into the Isle of Gades, where he pillaged all things as well sacred as prophane, and then retired to Car∣thage.

The Conqueror, after having deliver'd up his Province to those the Ro∣mans had appointed his Successors, return'd to Rome, where he made suit for the honour of Triumph; this was deny'd him, having never been granted to a Proconsul, except to such as had received that dignity after a Consulship, as it were by prorogation, which (continued Izadora) in my opinion, was some injustice, and evinced, the Reward was not to the Merit, but the Title. But to repair this Repulse, Scipio and Publius Cras∣sus were chosen Consuls; the last being High Priest of the Romans, was confined, by the quality of his office, to a near residence to Rome; but the first beg'd the Senate to permit him to carry the War to the Gates of Carthage, which was the most probable expedient to draw Hannibal out of Italy. This motion had more reason in it, than success; for some that were envious, and others that were fearful, opposed it: yet at last he ob∣tain'd Sicily for his Province, with liberty (if he thought fit) to trans∣port the War into Asrick. Perolla, a Friend to the fame and virtue of this great Man, put himself under his Ensigns, and partly by stratagem, but more largely by his Valor, took the inexpugnable Town of Locry, with the two famous Cittadels, as it were in Hannibal's sight. Scipio highly ex∣tolled his Courage and Conduct in this performance, and pressingly invited him to his African journey, which to the wonder of all the Empire he was admirably provided for, though he had received neither encouragement by words nor actions from the Senate. Perolla (whose Love and Revenge confin'd him to Italy) declin'd Scipio's request, but with inviolable prote∣stations, that if his success drew Hannibal (on whose ruine he was un∣changeably bent) into Africk, he would not fail there to offer the Con∣sul his Sword and Life. Scipio with this assurance set Sail for Africk, and Perolla returned to Rome, where in open Senate he received ample expres∣sions of their Gratitude for the Blood he had lost, and the Victories he had won for their Empire; neither was he long out of a probability of obliging them at a resembling rate: For Mago, a true son of Amilcars, ha∣ving received orders from Carthage, to abandon the Isle of Gades, and mo∣ney to raise an Army of Gaules and Ligurians, to help his Brother in Italy, first whipt and crucified the Gadentine Magistrates, for holding a secret

Correspondency with the Romans; and then taking an eternal leave of Spain, by his industry and wealth raised so vast an Army of those two Na∣tions, that the Senate began to tremble, and some to move that Scipio might be recalled, which in such an exigency had been performed, if his Successes in Africk had not been more prevalent for him, than his Friends in Rome. But though his Actions were of a peculiar quality and merit, yet having al∣ready so much usurpt upon your patience, and having only undertaken our own Story, I will pass by Scipio's. Madam, (said my Prince, inter∣rupting her) if I durst in any thing have the confidence to instruct my de∣sires at so uncivil a rate as the lengthening of your trouble, it should be in his Story; for though the Fame of that great man has in generals diffus'd itself over the whole world, yet I must confess, I have only heard of his glory, but not of those particular Trophies which compos'd and form'd it. Sir (replied Izadora) since you seem to decline the being informed of his generous Adventures, only out of a belief that the telling them may prove my trouble, I would by experiment convince you, nothing can bear that name, or have that operation with me, which proves a satisfaction to the gallant Spariacus; but that I believe the Relation will be more exact by Perolla's making it, than by mine, whose willingness to obey you, I dare an∣swer for by my own, since the sympathy betwixt us hath been so great and constant, that I alwayes knew his heart by mine. My Prince (continued Symander) by his silence, seem'd to impose that task on the generous Lo∣ver, who observing it, and having by a handsom expression acknowledg'd the advantagious character Izadora had given Spartacus of his heart, by comparing it to hers, and protested that he undertook the Story to ease her, and not to improve it: In these terms continued Scipio's Adventures, and ended his own.