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

PARTHENISSA, A ROMANCE.

THE SECOND PART.

PARTHENISSA.

THE SECOND PART.

BOOK I.

PVblius Cornelius Scipio, after his subduing of Spain, went with two Quinquereme Gallies privately into Africk, to Syphax that great Numidian King, who being a Neighbour to his new, and to his intended Conquests, he Courted to declare for the Romans, whose Victories were so recent, that though at the same instant Asdrubal was sent from Carthage to sol∣licite his friendship for their Empire, yet he at last de∣clared for the Roman, and protested to their General, that upon his arrival there, he would join Interest and Armies with him. Scipio on this assurance being chosen Consul, hastens into Africk; but as he was in Sicily, ready for his intended Expedition, he receives Ambassadors from Syphax, which in∣form'd him, though not in positive terms, yet obliquely of his change. The Consul not only kept this disaster secret, lest if it had been divulg'd, the Senate, and his Soldiers fears, might have put a period to his Voyage be∣fore it began, but gave out that Syphax had sent purposely to accelerate his Landing, and to acquaint him, if he protracted the time, he was so in∣tent upon the War, that he would upon his own score begin it. With this joyful Declaration, the Roman Army set Sail from Lilibeum: But while they are crossing the Mediterranean Sea, it will not be amiss to tell you the cause of this barbarous Kings inconstancy. The same Asdrubal, to whom lately he had refus'd his friendship, had a Daughter of such excellent beau∣ty, that Syphax (who was not unapt to receive the flames of Love) so abundantly admitted those which the fair Sophonisba's eyes inspir'd, that it made him not only abandon his Faith, but his Interest too; and to purchase her (for she was bought) he offer'd to decline the Romans, and de∣clare himself Carthaginian. This motion on so emergent a necessity was greedily embrac'd, and Sophonisba deliver'd up a Sacrifice for the pub∣lick advantage. For it is certain, the Numidian King had nothing consi∣derable but his Crown; and she by that fatal Marriage declin'd Massanissa, to whom she was contracted; a Prince of so much virtue, and so perfectly bles•• with the gifts of Nature, that I may truly say Sophonisba's preferment was her ruine. This Massanissa, was the Son of Gala, (Surnamed the Good) King of the Massesily; and though he were very young, yet by his great courage and wisdom he recover'd his Fathers Kingdom, (involv'd in a dangerous and intricate Rebellion) and by wayes which made all the world acknowledge him as worthy of it, as by his Title. His next care was to secure his Right, (both by Succession and Conquest:) To effect

which, and for the satisfying his inclination, he made his Addresses to the fair Sophonisba, whose Father (Asdrubal) had so large an interest in Car∣thage, that whosoever obtain'd his Alliance, might be said thereby to be Ally'd to that Empire. The Title of a Queen, and the Felicity of such a Husband, so pleas'd the Father and the Daughter, that the Marriage was as soon agreed upon as motion'd; and the more to endear it to the Cartha∣ginians, it was resolv'd that a Contract should be perfected, but before the consummation of the Nuptials, Massanissa should go in person with an Ar∣my into Spain, under his design'd Father-in-law, which the young Prince (more troubled to abandon his Mistriss, than his Kingdom) perform'd, and in that Expedition acted things of so transcendent virtue, that Carthage judg'd his Merit, without his Title, worthy the admirable Sophonisba; but Asdrubal having undertaken that fatal Expedition, (being himself no ex∣cellent Captain) met with disasters and oppositions, which would have render'd his being otherwise of no great advantage; for he began to move presently after the famous Battel of Metaurus, in which I may say Spain was conquer'd in Italy, for there all the Spanish Hostages were taken, that Asdrubal the Son of Amilcar had brought with him out of that Coun∣trey, and by which he kept that Wa••like Nation in more awe, than by his Garisons or Army. This success, made the Spaniards consider the Romans as the Rising Sun, and consequently adore the, so that his Levying an Ar∣my, prov'd more advantageous to his Enemies, than his Friends; for eve∣ry day they abandon'd his Ensigns in whole Troops, and put themselves under Scipio's, who was a General, that in Courage, Patience, and Conduct, was hardly to be equal'd. In a word, in one Summer Asdrubal lost all Spain, and Massanissa (perhaps glad of any subject which might return him to Sophonisba) joyfully abandon'd a great Kingdom to his Enemies, as ho∣ping in her embraces to lose all thoughts of misfortune; but he too soon found his error, for in his absence Syphax (as I told you) had seen Sopho∣nisba, and so passionately admir'd her, that upon his promise to the Cartha∣ginians not only of relinquishing Scipio, (who was preparing to invade their Countrey) but to bring them an Army of 100000 Men; they made of a particular Alliance, a publick Concernment, and in spite of Asdrubal and Massanissa, (who was as much his Rivals Superior in Virtue, as he was his in Power) gave that barbarous King the fair Sophonisba; and Syphax no sooner was in possession of his felicity, than proportioning Massanissa's resentments by the greatness of his loss, resolv'd to take from him the pow∣er of acting them. This particular Malice he made pass at Carthage for an Act of publick Security, it being a folly (as great as the injustice) to trust an offended Enemy with a Kingdom; therefore the Senate not only approv'd of their new Allies design, but furnish'd him with additional For∣ces, to expel the unfortunate Massanissa out of his Countrey, which Syphax soon effected, his Rivals virtue yielding to his numbers: But though Mas∣sanissa lost his Crown, yet did he not either his Courage or Judgement; the first was too great to sit down with such an affront to his Passion, and his Right; and the latter lead him to offer his service to Scipio, who ha∣ving found how considerable an Enemy he had been, doubted not but he would prove a resembling Friend: wherein he was not deceiv'd; for the Consul having acquainted him from Lilibeum, (where he shipt his Army) that he would Land at the Promontory of Apollo, he found Massanissa there with a gallant Body of Horse ready to join with him. Their first Action was to cut off 500 Horse, sent out of Carthage, to interrupt the Romans descent, which Massanissa perform'd as an earnest of his future Ser∣vices.

The next was against Hanno, a young Carthaginian Gentleman, of as little experience as years, who with 4000 select Horse, lay at a Town of importance, call'd Salera. This hasty Commander Massanissa (by bra∣ving him at his very Gates) toll'd out into an Ambush, then cut him (with his small Army) in pieces, and in the heat of the pursuit, enter'd the Town, with some few Run-aways, which presently he became Master of. This shews that Scipio gain'd by the loss of Syphax, for by his de∣fection, he sent him a friend, whose gallantry was more considerable than the others Forces. From Salera they march'd to besiege Vtica, a place con∣siderable for its strength and scituation, but much more for the virtue of the Defenders, which indeed was such, that though it were the first Town attempted, yet it was the last taken; and the Consul would have given his hopes of winning it, to avoid the disgrace he apprehended of having sate down before it; but Syphax and Asdrubal (whom the Carthaginians had made their General) by approaching with two Armies, which consist∣ed of near 80000 Foot, and 13000 Horse, gave him an honourable pre∣tence of abandoning Vtica, which he readily embrac'd, but the Winter was so far advanc'd, that the three Generals did nothing in it, but for∣tify their several Camps, which were not seven miles assunder; that of the Romans being excellently provided for, by the providence and libe∣rality of Massanissa, who Reigned in his Subjects, though not over them: but the Spring being come, Scipio, who believ'd the natural inconstancy of the Affricans, the tediousness of a winter Camp, the hazard of a War, whose Prologue had been unsuccessful, and perhaps the society of a Wife, might be plentiful motives to induce Syphax to decline Carthage, by sitting a Neuter, sent Ambassadors to him for that effect, with hope, that if they succeeded not, yet at least the Treaty would draw him into a jea∣lousie with his new friends. The Numidian King receiv'd the Ambassa∣dors with a magnificence that evinc'd they were not unwelcome, and sent them back to Scipio with this motion: That if the Romans would re∣turn out of Affrick, the Carthaginians should do the like out of Europe. But the Consul receiv'd a more pleasing and advantagious intelligence than this, though brought by the same persons, which was, that both the Carthaginian and Numidian Camp were so ill intrencht, and their Hutts cover'd with such combustible stuff, that it were a thing of as much ease, as glory, to end the War in one night; in brief, Scipio held on the Trea∣ty till such time as he had perfectly instructed himself in the truth of this information, and the facility of performing it, both which being con∣vinc'd of, one morning he commanded his Ambassadors to return, and sent Syphax and Asdrubal word, that 'twas in vain any longer to conti∣nue the Treaty, since he found all his Army unanimously bent to make them yield to their Mercy, or their Swords; This message blasted the two Generals like Lightning, for they had so fed themselves with the assurance of Peace, that the loss of that hope appear'd as great a misfortune to them, as if they had lost a certainty; but at last making Virtue of Necessity, they consol'd one another with mutual assurances, that as Scipio follow'd the steps of Marcus Atilius, so he would his Fate; but the same night, the Romans, who built their confidence upon a firmer foundation than Hope and Prophecies divided their Army, one halfe Massanissa and Lelius, the General of their Horse commanded; these were sent against Syphax's Camp, to whom Massanissa was an Enemy by the two most enflaming provocations, of a successful Rival, both in Love and Empire; the other, Scipio himself led; The first had orders to assault the Numidians,

who lay a Mile behind the Carthaginians, lest if Asdrubal's Camp were first on fire, it might be thought a design, and not a mischance. Massanissa and Lelius march'd two hours before the Consul, and before day, so exactly executed their instructions, that all Syphax's Camp was in a general Flame in the sight of Asdrubal's, who attributing it to some disaster (for they could not fancy the Romans would attempt the remotest, and so engage them∣selves between two Armies) ran without Arms or Order, to the relief of their friends; but their Charity was their ruine, for the Roman Horse of Scipio's Division, cut off all those which ran out of the Camp, and the Legions assaulting those in it, soon kindled as great fire there, as that they were deploring, and going to extinguish. The confusion, horror, and execution was transcendent, and though in both places the flame diffus'd it self above four miles, yet 'tis thought there was bloud enough spilt to have quencht it; for there we killed and destroyed (what by the Flame, what by the Sword) above 80000, and about 8000 were taken prisoners; 2000 Foot, and 500 Horse were all the serviceable Forces that escaped, in which number were the two unfortunate Generals, Never did Affrick receive a resembling misfortune, neither did all their Hannibal's Victories inspire them with a joy proportionate to the vastness of their grief, and astonishment for this loss. But in this high Misery, the Barcinian Faction shew'd a spirit unworthy of it, and not only absolutely oppos'd the sending for Hannibal out of Italy; (which they said would be a greater victory to the Romans, than that they had so lately won) but undertook in few days (if one of their Family might be General) to raise an Army, that at least should not be kill'd like Sacrifices (without resistance) that perhaps, might make the Romans acknowledge a succession of victories, was as well the way to Carthage as to Rome, and that none must present themselves before her Walls, but they must be loaden with Lawrels as much as Arms. This motion joy'd, and confounded the Senate; but the result of their dispute was, that not to discontent the Barcinian faction, lest they might lose Hannibal, they resolv'd not to recal him; and not to dis∣content Asdrubal lest they might lose Syphax, they gave Asdrubal again the Command of the Affrican War, sent Sophonisba as Embassadress from her Countrey, to her Husband, to implore him not to abandon them, when their condition render'd his friendship an action of Charity, as well as ••nterest; and besought the Barcinian Princes, by joyning their power and affections with Asdrubal, to manifest, that they lov'd the Common∣wealth more than they hated their Enemy. In brief, Syphax vanquish'd with the abundant Prayers and Tears of the fair Sophonisba, and the Bar∣cinians mov'd with the intreaties and danger of Carthage, so well improv'd the time, that in 30 days, they rais'd 30000 Men for Asdrubal, who resol∣ving to repair or repeat his disgrace, march'd directly towards Vtica, which Scipio, (more intent to vindicate his Honour, than increase his Conquest) had again besieg'd, which the second time he was necessitated to leave, and in a bloudy Battel, overcame Syphax and his Father-in-law, as absolutely by Courage, as he had formerly by Policy; the last flying to Carthage, and the other (follow'd soon after by his Queen) into his own Kingdom. The Consul to husband this victory better than the for∣mer, resolv'd himself to attempt Carthage, (the Rome of Affrick sent a se∣lect number to continue the Siege of Vtica, and enjoyn'd Massanissa, with all his Numidians, and some of the Romans under Lelius, to prosecute Sy∣phax. Scipio with his Division, took many Towns by his Name, and by his Arms, and at last presented himself before that stately City, which

had so long been a dangerous Rival unto his: Tunis, a great Town in the prospect of Carthage, he took by Assault; but as he was going to try his fortune upon her Neighbor and Mistriss, he was forc'd to alter his design, by the Carthaginians sending out their Fleet to destroy his, that lay ill∣mann'd before Vtica. By hasty marches therefore he came thither, and so well animated his Soldiers, and secur'd his Gallies, that his Enemies only return'd to Carthage with six of his Ships, where their Triumph was much greater than their Victory. In the mean while Massanissa, carry'd by the wings of Love, Empire, and Revenge, came with his Army into Nu∣midia, where the Masesilii, who had never been but his Subjects, now publickly declar'd themselves so, and joyning their Arms to their Prince's, march'd resolutely against Syphax, who with 50000 Foot, and 10000 Horse, was coming to dispute his Queen and his Kingdom: Massanissa and Lelius joyfully accepted the Battel, especially the first, who thought the ways to Empire, and fruition, were but the same. Syphax taught his Men to fight in the Roman order, but not being able to give them Roman Hearts, he lost his Army and his Liberty, to those that practis'd the former, and possess'd the latter. Massanissa justly pleas'd with this purchase, and being one who knew as well how to prosecute, as win a Victory, desir'd Lelius to follow to Cirta, the Metropolis of Numidia, whether he went be∣fore with all the Horse, and his great Prisoner: The Citizens upon the Conqueror's approach (who perhaps, hated the King, as much as an un∣successful Cause) open'd their Gates, where the first object that saluted his Eyes, was the fair Sophonisba, not as a Tryumphant Mistris, but an implo∣ring Prisoner: Massanissa, who consider'd her, and not her condition, a∣lighting from his Horse, and imitating her posture, desir'd her to believe, her Empire was as great where he commanded, as where Syphax did, and begg'd her, if she doubted so perfect a Truth, to evince it by some Com∣mands. She told him, that her inconstancy made her as little merit as de∣sire obligations from him, that had she not thought it a crime to have destroyed her self, by any thing, but by the sentence of his offended Love, she had, by becoming her own Executioner, punisht her inconstancy and misfortune (the former being the latter) and not liv'd to be so publique a spectacle of Fortune's mutability; that since he was pleas'd to pardon a sin that was its own punishment, she besought him, till her repentance for her fault, had created in him desires of affection, or the greatness of it, desires of Revenge, that he would preserve her from the Romans power. Her Youth and admirable Beauty, made so deep an impression in Massa∣nissa's heart; that not only he granted her request, but pardon'd her past inconstancy, and to take from the Romans all hopes of such a Prisoner, he seemingly, or really at that instant marry'd her.

But Lelius upon his arrival, was in so great a fury, that he had like to have been the destruction of the Nuptials, by being the destroyer of the Bride; but Massanissa knew so well how to humble himself before that proud Roman, and to represent, that she had always been his Wife, though married to Syphax; that he was content to suspend all things, till they return'd to the Consul, which (after the setling that great King∣dom) they soon did; There was no common joy in the Roman Camp at the arrival of so great a friend a Conqueror, and so great an Enemy a Prisoner; the first having by Scipio receiv'd in publique a just and am∣ple commendation, and acknowledgement for his transcendent obliga∣tions on this Empire; the last was strictly examined, what had induc'd him to embrace the Carthaginian Quarrel, having so professedly engag'd

himself in the Roman; to which he resolutely answer'd, 'twas the charms of his Wife, which truth he was confident e're long, a resembling operation on Massanissa, would abundantly confirm. Whether Syphax spoke this really, or in revenge, I cannot tell, but his assertion had so powerful an influence on the Consul: that taking Massanissa aside, he told him inge∣nuously, the Romans had an undeniable Title to Sophonisba's Life, whom he consider'd as the efficient cause of these Wars, and therefore conjur'd him, not to ruine the reward of so great services, by committing as great a Crime, which his detention of his new Wife, did, and would appear, in his, and the Senates judgement. Massanissa blusht and wept, but fi∣nally begg'd some time to work on his inclination, to submit unto his du∣ty; this civil request had the desir'd return, and Massanissa being retir'd into his Tent, spent an hour in an Agony, whose torments nothing but an unfortunate Lover is capable to imagine: but at length, after a seri∣ous reflection, that by denying her, he should deliver both himself and Sophonisba, into the Roman hands, and perhaps believing, if she had a real passion for him, that her own Fate would be the less bitter, by his not being involv'd in it, and if she had not, the loss was the more tollerable; he determin'd to preserve her in his memory, that he could not in his embraces, and sending for an exquisite poison, he commanded one of his Domesticks to present it from him to Sophonisba, as the only way he had left to keep his word, and her from the Romans. The fair Queen undauntedly taking the fatal Cup, bid the Messenger to tell his Lord, that to manifest, nothing which came from him was unwelcome, she would receive from him the present of her Fate; which having drank, she further enjoyn'd him to beg Massanissa, that if the actions of her life, had impair'd her in his first affection; that the resoluteness of her death, might restore it to its former luster, and that she might live in, though not with him: then casting her self upon her Bed, an eternal darkness soon clos'd up the fairest Lights which ever shin'd in Affrick, to which barbarous Countrey I had not confin'd my similitude, had the fair Sophonisba been as constant in her Love, as in her Death. This Tra∣gedy, and the sad influence it had on Massanissa, no sooner reacht the Consuls knowledge, than he sent for him, and having drawn all his Ar∣my in Battalia, in their sight, to repair the having taken from him Syphax's Wife, he gave him Syphax's Kingdom, saluted him by the name of King, pre∣sented him with a Crown of Gold, and by large Elogies on his noble acti∣ons, dry'd up his Tears. This truly was the best Cordial, and those clouds of grief, by so admirable a Sun-shine of prosperity, were soon dissipated, and he with the Romans march'd to the Siege of Carthage, from whence, they having heard of Syphax's defeat, instead of sending armed Troops to meet them, they sent out old Hanno with the Princes of his Faction, who prostrating themselves on the ground, not only kist Scipio's feet, but the feet of those that sate in Counsel with him, to whom they acknowledg'd they had unjustly broken the Peace betwixt Rome and Car∣thage, which they besought might continue as a monument of their mer∣cy, and in a resembling series of baseness, begg'd Peace on terms, though as low as those Spirits that implor'd it. Scipio, who knew Rome to be poor, though victorious, and Carthage rich, though subdu'd, willing to relieve the necessities of the former, by the abundance of the latter, and perhaps, fearful that dispair might make them continue the War longer than his Consulship, and so his victories might prove but the foundation of anothers Glory; or else believing so prostrate an Enemy unworthy his

Sword, or esteeming it more generous to be known a Conqueror by the confession, than the ruine of his Enemies, granted them Peace, but upon terms, as long as their submission, and permitted them to send unto the Roman Senate for their Ratification. In the mean time, Mago had rais'd so considerable an Army of Gauls, and Lygurians, that the Romans ap∣prehended he would kindle as great a flame in Italy, as Scipio had in Affrick. They therefore sent against him Marcus Cornelius, the Pro-Consul, and Quintilius Vartus, one of their Pretors, with whom I associated my self. In short, Mago and the Roman Army, met in the Countrey of the Insub∣tians, where was fought a Battel, of as much variety and resolution, as any since Rome or Carthage were founded: twice the Romans, and twice their Enemies were embracing Victory, but at length Quintilius, and I, having rally'd the reliques of our scatter'd Horse, and Mago of his, we resolute∣ly advanc'd to determine this bloudy dispute; Hannibal's Brother, who suspected his Men needed some high encouragement, advanc'd about an hundred paces before them, and invited the Pro-Consul by a single Com∣bat, to shew they were as prodigal of their own Bloud, as of their Sol∣diers. He not being present, and the Pretor (perhaps) more concern'd in the publique Safety, than in his particular Honor, declining it, (with his permission) I gallop'd up to Mago, told him, the Pro-Consul was on an employment which render'd him uncapable of hearing, and consequent∣ly answering his Challenge, and that therefore I was come (naming my self) to supply his place, that so generous an invitation might not fall to the ground. As soon as Mago heard the Name of Perolla, his Eyes were all inflam'd, and he was so transported with Passion, he had scarce the pa∣tience to tell me, that had he known of my being in the Roman Army, he had addrest his words to me sooner than to the Pro-Consul, and that the time was now come, I must answer for Asdrubals bloud, or shed more of it: then not giving me the leasure of a reply, we began a Combat of so peculiar a quality, that it produc'd a resembling effect, for both Ar∣mies were so concern'd in the dispute of their Combatants, that forgetting their own, as if it had been by mutual consent, they became spectators of their Fates, which they thought would be legible in that of their Cham∣pions. But why do I so long protract my relation? let it suffice I tell you, that though Mago's Virtue relish'd of his Family, yet his success was Car∣thaginian, for I having receiv'd a wound on my Bridle-hand, gave my Enemy so large an one in his Thigh, that he fell from his Horse, and had there lost his life, had not I thought it more handsome to give, than take it. At this Victory, the Romans gave so loud a shout, that most of the Gauls and Lygurians were hardly able to abide it, much less their victori∣ous Arms; but the Battel had so long continu'd, that the approach of night hinder'd the Conquerors from making any considerable advantage by winning it, and the vanquish'd during the obscurity, made so long a march with their wounded General, that in two days after they came in∣to Lyguria, where he receiv'd the sad Commands of Carthage, without delay to return thither, and rather employ his Bloud to preserve his own Countrey, than to Conquer his Enemies. This fatal Summons he obey'd in part, but his wound open'd so large a way for his Soul, that it flew out at that passage, as he was as far as Sardinia in his return. This loss, the Carthaginians resented at a higher rate, than that Battel which was the cause of it: To contract my discourse, I will pass over those Civilities, not only the Pro-Consul and the Pretor, but also the whole Roman Senate made me to let you know, that those low submissions Carthage had made

Scipio (which indeed were too humble to be real) were only to protract the time, till those two famous Sons of Amilcar were come out of Italy for their deliverance; the fate of the youngest, and his Army, Sir, I have al∣ready told you, that of Hannibal I am now going to relate, and it shall be in as little a Volume, as I can possibly contract so much Truth, and Busi∣ness in. I will therefore in pursuance of this assurance, pass by all his acti∣ons, since that famous Battel of Metaurus, and therein be no Enemy to his Glory, which would be more obscur'd by saying he did little, than that he did nothing, and come to his receiving from Carthage the Orders for his return; which though they were the same, had been sent his great Bro∣ther, yet he did not consider them with so Philosophical a temper; for whereas Mago at their reception, obey'd them, with an absolute resignati∣on; Hannibal by a thousand extravagancies exprest his rage, and discon∣tent; but after his fury, gave him leave to speak, he cry'd out to his Offi∣cers, yet at least this is plain dealing, and more handsome to let their Com∣mands, than their not supplying my necessities recall me; besides, (he con∣tinu'd) Rome nor Scipio cannot now glory, they have sent Hannibal out of Italy, no, 'tis Hanno and his Faction, who not able any other way to ef∣fect the destruction of the Barcinians, act it by that of Carthage. But this great Captain, whose providence extended over all events, had in readi∣ness a Fleet for so sad a Navigation, in which he embark'd his Army, but all such Italians as were not willing to follow his fortune, nor able to fly his Power and Fury, and had taken sanctuary in that sacred one of Iuno Lucinia, he forc'd from thence, and by putting them to several ignomini∣ous deaths, did that for them, which they merited of their Countrey: Af∣ter so bloudy a Sacrifice to the Manes of those friends he had left behind, he took Ship himself, more troubled at his abandoning Italy, than at the cause of it, cursing both the gods and his own stupidity, that after the Battel of Cannes, he had not led his Army all hot and bloudy to the Walls of Rome. But whilist he is at Sea, it will not be amiss to let you know, what is done on Land. The Carthaginian Ambassadors sent to Rome to ratify that Peace made with Scipio, appear'd so ignorant in what they were sent to conclude, and so uncertain in their desires, and answers, that the Senate easily disco∣ver'd their hearts, and found what there presented to be their simpli∣city, was their treachery: whereupon that great Assembly return'd them back to Scipio, by Lelius, who had been sent to Rome with Syphax. Lelius in a swift Gally, accompanied with his false Ambassadors, soon came to the Ro∣man standing Camp, where he learnt that the Carthaginians having certain∣ly heard of that great Army (following too the famous Name of Hannibal) which was coming out of Italy, asham'd of their tame submission, and that they had despair'd of their fate, whilst so fear'd a General was to dispute it, and coming powerfully to their deliverance, had not only broke the Trea∣ty, but by Asdrubal their Admiral had taken 200 Ships sent from Sicily to re∣lieve the Roman Camp, they being by extremity of weather, cast into the Bay of Carthage; and that Scipio having sent Ambassadors to complain of so barbarous a violation, contrary to the Laws of Nations, they had like to have been murther'd, declaring their Ambassy; but having strangely escap'd that misfortune, returning by Sea to the Consul, who then encamp'd not far from the River Bagradas, they were encounter'd by the same Asdrubal, who lay behind a Promontory to intercept them, which doubtless he had per∣form'd, had not the Ambassadors in a swift Quinquereme-Gally, avoided his stemming, and run ashore to some Roman Companies, which were sent for their rescue, where though they sav'd themselves, yet they lost many of their

attendants & followers, which A••rican proceeding had so incens'd the Con∣sul, that he was gone to vindicate it with his Army, which now breath'd no∣thing but blood and fury. Lelius, surpriz'd at this strange & true information, went to Scipio, who he found acting a Revenge proportionate to the great∣ness of those Crimes that made it just: but the Carthaginian Ambassadors he left in the Roman Camp, which then was commanded by Bebius, one of those that had so narrowly scap'd in his late Embassy; and though by Le∣lius he beg'd the Consul by the death of the Carthaginian Ambassadors, to let his Enemies know, and suffer for their fault; yet the generous Scipio commanded him not only to spare their Lives, but immediately to give them their liberty: For he esteem'd it a nobler way so to reprove their sin, than to imitate it. This great Conquest over himself, was but a Prophe∣cy of that over his Enemies, which now was not far off; for their great Hannibal, about this time, landed at Leptis, an hundred miles from Carthage, which he did, to refresh his men after their Navigation, and to get some ad∣ditional Forces, especially of Horse, in which he was most defective. Ty∣cheus, and Mezetullus, two African Princes, brought him 3000, with which reinforcement, having received positive orders from Carthage, without pro∣traction, to determine their destiny by Battel, he march'd directly to Za∣ma, not far from the place where the Consul lay, from whence he sent out Spies, to discover the Romans countenance and strength; some of them being taken, were brought to Scipio, who, instead of crucitying them, (which was then the general practice) commanded an Officer to carry them about the Camp, and punctually to shew them whatever they desir'd: this done, he sent them back to their General, who admir'd at the bravery of his Enemy, and concluded his Army was deficient in nothing, since he was so ready to shew the posture it was in. Hannibal immediately after, (but I cannot tell from which of those two causes it proceeded) sent to desire a Parly with Scipio, who assur'd him shortly to satisfie his request. The next day after Massanissa (who upon that false Peace was sent into his own Kingdom) came to the Camp, at the Consuls reiterated requests, with 4000 Horse, and 6000 Foot, and the same day I arriv'd there, to satisfie my En∣gagement and Revenge. Those additional Forces gave the Consul so great a certainty of Victory, that the next morning with all his Army he remo∣ved to Nadagara, where mindful of his Engagement to Hannibal, he sent him word he was then ready to discharge it. The time and place was im∣mediately appointed, and those two great Men went out of their Camps to meet one another, each of them with 1000 Horse for their Guard; and I being desirous to see my Rival, had the command of Scipio's. No sooner were they come to a convenient distance, then all the rest making a stand, the two Generals advanc'd, and for a while did nothing but view one ano∣ther with mutual admiration, perhaps to find out where that virtue lay, which had render'd them so equally famous over all the world. At length, Hannibal saluting Scipio, first told him, It had been (generous Enemy) more advantageous both for Carthage and Rome, if they had confin'd their Ambitions within the shores of A••rick and Italy, since the Kingdoms of Spain and Sicily, about which our Fathers and we have so obstinately con∣tended, are not a sufficient recompence for that blood and treasure they have exhausted; but though things past are irrevocable, yet they may in∣struct us for the future, and induce us (by a serious reflection on those dangers we have expos'd our own Countries unto, to conquer others) to believe it necessary and just, rather with safety to possess our own, than run a hazard of that, for an uncertainty of more: To this temper, my experi∣ence

of the World, and of Fortune, has reduced me: But I apprehend thy youth and heat will decline these thoughts, till thou hast learn'd them in the same School; but, methinks, thou may'st, by my example, be infor∣med of a truth, which if now unregarded, thou may '••t learn at a more troublesom rate: For I am that Hannibal, which, after many bloody Bat∣tels, brought my victorious Arms to the walls of Rome, and now behold here I come to offer Peace unto thee, that thou may'st not do the like to Carthage. Consider too the Fate of Marcus Atilius, who, for declining so advantageous an overture, received a ruine from the gods, which perhaps attends all those that delight in shedding humane blood: Canst thou be content Scipio that Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, and whatever other Islands lie between Africk and Italy, be eternally abandoned by the Carthaginians? 'Tis a glorious bargain for the Romans; and for our parts, our future quiet shall be our satisfaction; and the contentment which from thence we shall derive, will be an abundant obligation to tye us faith••ully to observe the Peace that gives it: But if thou esteemest all this too little, reflect (I be∣seech thee) how great a hazard thou undergoest, for the obtaining of a little more than thou may'st enjoy without any. 'Tis now in thy power to make thy Fate, but if thou stayest till to morrow Night, the gods will make it for thee; let us therefore conclude on this universal blessing, and reproach me not the late treachery of some false-hearted Citizens of ours; it is Hannibal that now desires Peace, which he would never do, did he not find it expedient for his Countrey, and knowing it so, he will always maintain it, as he did the War he began, 'till the gods and Men did envy him. (To which Scipio reply'd) 'Twas not (generous Hannibal) the ambition of Rome which made them take up Arms, but the defence of the Memertines, and Saguntines, their Confederates; which action of theirs, the gods, by the issue of the War, have, and will declare was just: For the mutability of Fortune, I am not ignorant of it, the condition which thou once didst reduce Rome unto, and that which I have since Carthage, does sufficiently evince it, and therefore I would as willingly give Peace, as thou des••••est it, if it were upon terms which might convince the world, 'tis the Roman magnanimity, and not the Roman fear, that grants it; but by what thou offerest, thou only givest what their Swords have given them already; and whereas I expected, that in recompence of thy Citizens per∣fidiousness, thou wouldst enlarge the Articles of their late violated Peace, thou dost exceedingly contract them, and thereby wouldst have them gai∣ners by their treachery. No, Hannibal, those that will have Rome their friend, must not do actions unworthy of that end; and if the Carthagini∣ans break an Agreement, as soon as they see a probability of building their Fortune, by the ruine of their Faith, they do thereby instruct the Romans, to reduce them to a condition of not being able to violate a Peace before they grant them one. But (continued Scipio) all this I speak to Carthage, and not to Hannibal, to whose desires I will give, what I will deny my own judgment, and that is Peace, provided that my first Concessions be the Articles of it, and that an equal satisfaction be made for those injuries we have sustained by their Infidelity. I am not come (Han∣nibal reply'd) to cheapen a Peace, I come to offer what I esteem just; and as I have done it at first word, so I will not recede from my first overture; if thou esteemest it unreasonable, the god of Battels must be our Judge. 'Tis to him then (Scipio briskly reply'd) I refer our difference, who, I believe, thou wilt find more untractable than I am; for he cannot be a god, if he favor an Army which comes more loaden with In••idelity than

Arms; and from whom Victory will flie, lest she be thought as blind as For∣tune. Then the Consul, laying by his serious looks, told the Carthaginian smiling, But if at my return to my Army, every one be as well satisfied with this conclusion, as a Gentleman that commands those Horse (pointing to his Guards) I shall find as general a joy at the assurance of a Battel, as at the possession of a Victory; and if every Soldier had his resolution and design, Hannibal would not avoid his particular Fate, whatever the Gods determined of the publick. Who is this, said the Carthaginian, that is so great an Enemy to Peace, and to Hannibal? 'Tis Perolla (said the Consul) Oh Gods (the A••rican reply'd) what strange accident makes him abandon his Izadora? But may I not (generous Scipio) by your favor, be satisfied from his own mouth? Yes (said the Consul) I will send him to you, but first I must exactan engagement from you, and then the like from him, that what∣ever your discourses be, you shall pass no farther. I do (Hannibal answer'd) faithfully promise it; for since I am certain in so short a time, to have so ma∣ny thousand witnesses of my revenge, I would not confine the sight of it to so few. This confidence (said Scipio) I will leave Perolla to answer, who immediately shall meet you: then taking leave of Hannibal, he told him, Remember Carthage pulls down her own destiny, by decliming a Peace, which she implor'd with tears; and when I ask no other satisfaction for their treachery, but to restore what they took from us by it. Remember (said the Carthaginian) 'twas Citizens not Soldiers which beg'd made, and broke the Peace, and 'tis Hannibal you have now to deal with, who intend∣ing to keep his bargain, will make it accordingly, and has offered you what before next Sun does set, you will repent you have declin'd. The Consul would not hear this reply, but came immediately where I waited for him, and there told me the publick transactions, and my Rivals desire, which he gave me leave to satisfie, but first engaged me to the same conditions Han∣nibal had submitted unto; which having faithfully promis'd, I gallopt to the place where he attended me, and where truly I was receiv'd by that great man, with a civility and countenance which had nothing of an Enemy and Rival; I salu••ed him with an high respect, and with an humility proportio∣nable to the difference of our qualities; but I could not suspend that just hatred I had contracted against his barbarous usage, to a perfection greater than that sin; which the seeing him so infinitely increast, that had I not re∣member'd my engagement to Scipio, I had then either ended our differen∣ces, or my life; but whil'st I was in those thoughts, they were interrupted, by Hannibals telling me, Is then (Perolla) your Hate greater than your Love, that you abandon your Mistriss, to prosecute your Rival? Or has that high justice of Izadora's, which esteem'd Hannibal unworthy of her, taken up the same belief of you? Sir (I reply'd) that affection which I confess is an injustice for the fair Izadora to confer on any man, forces me to seek out the high in∣terrupter of it, which yet is no argument that my desire of revenge is great∣er than my flame; for the cause being alwayes more noble than the effect, my passion, which makes me endeavor to vindicate the object of it, cannot be esteem'd less great, than that which it forces me unto: neither could I by any one action render my self more unworthy the beatitude of Izadora's Love, than in not declining my joys, to revenge her wrongs; which to effect, I will fling my self into dangers, as high as those pleasures I have lately abandon••d. Ah young man (said Hannibal) thou art as little sensible of, as worthy thy felicity: Canst thou possess Izadora's Love, and think of any thing besides? Were I in thy blest condition, nor Revenge, Empire, or Glory, should one minute separate me from a felicity which I could not render my self more

unworthy of, than by abandoning: nay, I would quarrel with any thought which should interpose, much more remove me from it: but since thou ••ast left all to follow thy Revenge, if thou hast the courage to act it, to morrow I'll present thee the occasion. Oh Gods! I cry'd out, if I have the courage to act it? Alas! he that did not want it to vindicate an injur'd Empire, will not certainly, when 'tis to right a perfection as far above an Empire, as she is any thing else that's mortal. Yes, Hannibal, thou shalt find, a heart that's fill'd with so divine an image, cannot be capable of so low a sin as Fear; but on the contrary, 'twill inspire me with resolution enough to seek thee out, even in the center of thy Troops. I will (said Hannibal) spare thee that pains, thou shalt find me at the head of them, where I will more handsom∣ly punish those miseries thy better stars have cast upon me, and by thy death, before 200000 witnesses, evince, thou hadst more Fortune than Merit in thy Love; and by destroying the object of Izadora's flame, punish her in∣gratitude to mine. Do but (I reply'd) assault my life in so generous a way, I will excuse thy attempt upon it by Oristes, and never implore a greater certainty for the punishment of thy Crimes, than to have thee de∣fend them with thy Sword. The apprehension I had (continu'd Perolla) that my passion might transport me beyond my promise, made me (after having again summon'd Hannibal of his engagement) gallop away to the Consul, who I found (by an excess of civility) was become the Captain of my Guards, as I had been of his; he made me too, that generous Compli∣ment: and after I had by an humility resembling the cause of it, exprest my gratitude, I inform'd him (as we were returning to the Camp) what had past betwixt my Rival and me, whilst he was doing so great an injury to his quality. As soon as we were come within sight of it, Massanissa, Lelius, and all the most considerable Officers, came to meet Scipio, who told them with a look which relisht of Victory, that the Carthaginians would force the Romans to become their Lords; and by denying them a part of their Empire, give them a title to the whole, which the next Sun should absolute∣ly decide. The Numidian King, and all the rest, were exceedingly satisfi'd with this News; for they were confident, their Swords would give them more, than the Carthaginians. The day therefore no sooner appear'd, than the large Plains of Nadagara were cover'd with Soldiers, from which place the ensuing Battel took its name, though many (but ignorantly) term'd it that of Zama; and though I had the honour to have been in most of the signal actions of my time, yet there were none of them to beequal'd with this, whether you reflect upon the Generals, the Armies, or the dispute, which in effect was to decide the quarrel betwixt Rome and Carthage. Scipio divi∣ded his Horse in two wings, the right Massanissa had with his Numidians, under whom I elected to serve, because their manner of Fight gave me a greater probability of meeting with Hannibal, though the Consul offer'd me the command of the flying Regiment, which consisted of 1000 Roman and Sicilian Gentlemen; the left Lelius commanded, which was composed of the Italian Cavalry: The first Maniples were the Hastati, the next the Principes, the third the Triarii, who were mutually seconds to each other, and only in this the Consul differ'd from the usual Roman Discipline; for he plac'd not the Maniples of his Principes, opposite to the Intervals be∣twixt the Hastati, that so (as was usual) they might fall back between the Principes, but plac'd them directly one behind the other, as it were in File, which was of singular advantage; for those Elephants that charged the Romans, finding a free passage through the Intervals, never broke upon the Soldiers, which it seem'd was rather their constraint, than their choice. The

Consul having thus drawn up his Army, made them this short Speech: If Glory, Revenge, and the Empire of the world, are capable (generous Companions) to bring any accession to your Valors, in this Battel, as in their centre they all meet, you safeties too are included in it, for in this barbarous Climate you have no retreat; so that were there any Cowards amongst you, they must find their security in their hands, not in their feet: For my own particular, I bless the Gods that have made it my Fate, to be after this day uncapable of misery, for Death or Victory equally secures me from it; and this Battel ended, you may quietly possess the fruits of it, since if your Swords conquer this Nation, your Fame will all the others. Remem∣ber your Enemies last action in Italy, was the violating of Sanctuaries, and their first in Africk was the violating of Peace: so that their Crimes weigh down their Arms; and by destroying them, you sacrifice as well to the Gods, as to your Revenge. Let us then begin the Charge, and let it be vigorous enough, to make them acknowledge, that their sin was not capa∣ble of transcending their punishment; that by flying from that Peace which we granted them, they have as much injur'd their interest, as their honesty; and force the Survivors to shed as many tears for having declin'd honesty; and force the Survivors to shed as many tears for having declin'd our mercy, as they did to obtain it. Hannibal too was not unimploy'd, for he knew this day was to perfect, or ruine his glory. His Elephants (which were above Fourscore) he plac'd in the Front of his Battalions, behind these was his Vanguard (all Mercenaries) and compos'd of Lygurians, Gaules, Baleares and Moors, his Battel then follow'd, consisting of Cartha∣ginians, and other Africans, more concern'd in the quarrel, but not so va∣liant maintainers of it. To these were added 4000 Macedonians, under the command of Sopater their Captain, lately sent him by Philip, King of that Warlike people. More than a Furlong behind these last Divisions, came his Rearguard, consisting of those brave Soldiers which had serv'd him in his Italian Wars, in whose virtue only he was confident of victory. His right wing of Horse (all Carthaginians) was led by Mircall, and Bar∣mocall (for the generous Maharball was dead.) Two famous Captains, Tycheus and Mezetullus, commanded the left, which was formed of Numi∣dians. Hannibal having thus order'd the Fate of Carthage, endeavour'd by few, but powerful words, to elevate and increase his Soldiers courages; to the Mercenaries he promis'd rewards, as great as the quarrel that Battel was to decide. To the Carthaginians, perpetual slavery and chains, if by death or victory, they did not avoid those misfortunes. But to his old Army, he put them in mind of all that Glory they had won, when their Courages effected greater wonders, than would be necessary that day: 'Tis not (he continu'd) your General alone that now incites your Valors, 'tis Carthage, liberty, glory, your wives, children, and friends, that speak by my mouth; they will think you valu'd Italy above all these, if you had courage to con∣quer that, and want it to preserve them: no, generous Companions, shew the Senate, by the defeat of these Romans, what you had done to all the rest, had your Supplies been equal to your Merit; and convince them by so noble an Argument, of your virtue, and of their neglect of it. Then turning towards our Army, he told them, Observe whether these numbers equal those at Cannes, Trebia, Tecinum, or Thracimene; alas! these are so far from opposing you, that their ruine will hardly bring any accession to your Glories. Remember this Scipio's Father was the first Captain we beat in Europe, let his Son be the first we beat in Africk, make your Successes run in a blood, his Soldiers will contribute to this design; for they are the

Sons of those Cowards you have so often vanquisht, that you have entail'd fear upon their Posterity.

No sooner had Hannibal done speaking, then he commanded his Numi∣dian Horse to begin the Battel, whereunto they were invited by a Thou∣sand Trumpets, Clairons, and other Warlike Musick: The Elephants too were commanded to Charge the Romans, but those irrational Creatures seem'd to reprove the Carthaginians with their violation of Faith; for the greatest part of them turn'd head, and extremely disorder'd their own left wing; Massanissa so well improv'd so unexpected an advantage, that he perfected what they had but begun. The rest of the Elephants (which were faithful to their own side) made a horrid execution on the Roman Velites, whom they Chased through the Intervals of the Maniples; yet did the Battalions no prejudice, by that excellent prevention of the Consuls, which I formerly mention'd: but divers of those moving Castles being at length much wounded, turn'd head, and ran furiously upon their own right wing, and thereby gave Lelius the same advantage which they had presented Massanissa, and which he as well improv'd as the Numidian King. In the mean time the Battalions of Foot of either Army advanc'd, with a slow and confident march, till they came within shot, but then giving a shout which made the Neighbouring hills to tremble, they ran against each other with a fury worthy their dispute; at first, the barbarous strength of the Mercenaries prevail'd over the Roman virtue, but at length the Roman discipline, and resolution, wrought its accustomed effect; for the Principes by sustaining the Hastati, reliev'd their fear, and disorder; but as soon as the Mercenaries retreated, the new-rais'd Africans had not the courage to second them, which the other sattributing as much to their treachery, as fear, began to flie; but not being able to run away but through the Inter∣vals of the A••ricans, those either to punish, or hinder their Cowardize, would not permit them that way of safety. On the other side, the Gaules, and Lygurians, by not being seconded, and by then being oppos'd, thought themselves betray'd; and esteeming it a more pleasing Revenge to destroy their false Friends, than their valiant Enemies, made use of those Arms a∣gainst the Carthaginians, which they had taken up for them; which disor∣der the Romans soon ended, by involving both Parties almost in a general ruine. I have (said Perolla) the more insisted on this part of the Bat∣tel, to vindicate the justice of the Gods: for these Forces were those only which had broke their Faith, and Peace; and they only were those against whom Fortune so visibly fought, that the Romans were convinc'd Victory was on their side, because Justice was; and indeed they acted their success with so much ease, that it appear'd the work of the gods, and not of men. But all this while Hannibal with his Italian Army stood firm, and charged his Pikes and Launces against those Cowards which sought their safety in their feet, so that they were necessitated to seek their deliverance in that, by which they had thitherto found it. Scipio perceiving those gallant Troops, with as little fear in their looks, as hearts, Hannibal too at the head of them, and the ground over which he was to march, slippery with blood, and in∣cumber'd with dead carcasses, was in a great apprehension, whether march∣ing such an obstructed way, his Battalions might not be disorder'd before he came, where he was confident they would most stand in need of their discipline and virtue; but after a short debate with himself, (for he was blest with an excellent presence of mind) not to lose the victorious heat his Soldiers were in, he commanded the Hastati to wade slowly through

that Sea of blood, and (as I may say) as soon as they were Landed, to draw up all in Front, and if Hannibal offer'd to assault them before the Principes, and the Triarii were come up, immediately to retreat into that purple flood they had made, where the Carthaginians might share the in∣conveniences of the ground, and where the dead Africans would assume the quarrel of the gods, and hinder the living. But these directions, though they abundantly manifested the Consuls Soldiery, yet there was no use of them; for Hannibal either disdaining all advantages from those dead, that when living had afforded him none, the better to set off the vir∣tue of his old Army, or the distance being too great to advance and charge the Hastati, before their companions came, made that great man decline it, and so Scipio had time to draw his Principes and Triarii on the right and left Flank of his Hastati; which was no sooner effected, than he immedi∣ately advanc'd to charge an Army, who never saw any defeats but those they had given the Romans, and where he was so entertain'd, that it made the precedent fight against the Mercenaries, and Africans, appear not wor∣thy that name; for the Romans, encouraged with their numbers and suc∣cess, and their Enemies inflam'd with the loss of their companions, the ha∣zard of their Empire, and perhaps with the glory of having the general safety left to their Swords, so mutually fill'd all places with blood and hor∣ror, that I may truly say, the World was well disputed, and Victory was so equally and generously courted, that she knew not which side to elect; whereby you may in some sort conjecture, what hazard the Roman Empire was reduc'd unto, by the too violent pursuit of Massanissa and Lelius, which I may truly say, I first discover'd, and first made them sensible of; for whilst we were following those whose low resistance made them unworthy our Arms, we abandon'd those, whose resolutions merited our assistance, and whose condition needed it. Massanissa and Lelius were so far from con∣demning my confidence, that they acknowledg'd their fault, and after the Battel, confest unto the Consul, that he deriv'd his relief from my care, (this I tell you, not to acquaint you with my virtue, but to shew you how secure they were in their own.) I will omit (generous Spartacus) in∣forming you, how that day I kill'd two A••rican Captains, that naming them∣selves Hannibal, by deluding me into a false Revenge, deluded themselves into a real death.

It is time to return to Scipio, who, perhaps, we have too long abandon'd in our Story, as well as in the Battel; that great man, at our arrival with all our Horse, was upon the point of losing a Victory, by our having pro∣secuted one too far. To be brief, our return was most happy, and in a needful time; for the Carthaginian had so well continu'd his practice, that he had left Forces enough to prosecute his dawning success, and drew a considerable Body (as well for their number, as virtue) to oppose Mas∣sanissa and Lelius; and that which made this little Army the more formi∣dable, was, that Hannibal himself lead them: the gallantry of the charge was proportionate to the Soldiers and Generals, and we were no sooner mingled, then I sought him amongst the press, who had promis'd to be found at the head of his Troops; but I was soon reliev'd from that em∣ployment, by a voice which I heard often repeat my name, I ran with ex∣cessive joy to the place where I was call'd, in hope that it might be Hanni∣bal; I soon found 'twas no third counterfeit, as well by that majestick grace he had under his arms, as by the fury of his blows, which I imagined could not be inspir'd but from Revenge and Jealousie.

Our Javelins working no effect (mine glancing upon his shield, flew between his right Arm and his Body, and his past hissing by my ears) we soon made use of our Swords, and were so equally animated, that our rage for awhile hinder'd the actings of it; but not to hold you long in a Com∣bat which did not last so, after we had almost cut in pieces those Armors, whose goodness we mutually curst, and that we had by light wounds drawn of each others blood, Hannibal who apprehended, that by playing too much the part of a Soldier, he should as much neglect that of the General, determin'd by a powerful reverse to end both the dispute, and his life, that was the cause of it; but what he design'd for that effect, might have had a contrary one, for the blow was so vigorous, that by chance lighting upon a piece of my Helmet, it broke the Sword that struck it, and left nothing in Hannibal's hand but the Hilt: Though a piece of the Sword gave me a deep wound in my left shoulder, yet I no sooner saw my Enemy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 than my Anger was so too; but the object of it perceiving his misfortune, was so far from being terrified with it, that observing I declin'd prosecu∣ting my advantage, he told me, Why dost thou not (Perolla) embrace an opportunity which Fortune has offer'd thee, since thou canst never expect an advantage over me, but on such a score? Those words mov'd me a lit∣tle, but not so much as his condition; so that laying aside Izadora's wrongs, my Countries, and my own, I reply'd, 'Tis not (Hannibal) from Fortune, but from Justice, that I will derive my Revenge; for since I undertake to vindicate an injur'd Innocency, I must make use of no wayes, but those as virtuous as the Subject of my quarrel: Thy attempt on my life by Oristes, when I could make no resistance, I condemned and therefore will not pra∣ctice a resembling Crime; since to imitate so low a sin, were rather to au∣thorize, than punish it: Go then, and at our next meeting get a better Cause, as well as Sword; for if the first be the same, the latter will be the like. H••nnibal made me some Reply, which by the tone I imagin'd was very civil, but I gallopt away from him, ending those words, (lest he might conjecture I obliged him, to make him my Friend, and lest some Ro∣mans might have made a more fatal use of my advantage) and joined my self with Massanissa, who had perform'd miracles that day, which (in a word) concluded with an entire defeat of the Carthaginians, 22000 being left dead upon the place, and almost half as many Prisoners taken. Scipio in the midst of his Troops, (upon Lelius and the Numidian Kings infor∣mation) came and embrac'd me with transports which were too great ei∣ther to be related, or believed, and then ask'd me, whether I had met with my own and our Empires greatest Enemy? I told him I had, and exchan∣ged some blows with him, but that we were soon separated. This I ac∣knowledged, but durst not acquaint him with the en••••••e truth, lest he might have esteemed that an offence to Rome, which I was certain was not one to Gallantry; and on the other side, Hannibal, either not to own his mis∣fortune, or out of an apprehension, that the discovering of his safety, might endanger him that gave it, ever kept it private, which was the cause that so great a truth was not a publick one. In this great Battel of Nadagara, or (as some called it) of Zama, was determined the fate of Carthage, though Hannibal avoided that dayes ruine, having performed all the vir∣tues of a General and Soldier; and where to speak the truth, 'twas (as he said) more the gods, than the Romans, that won it, for his two wings of Horse were routed by his own Elephants; and had he been blest with their return, as Scipio was with Massanissa and Lelius's, he had probably prosecuted that advantage over the Consul, which their arrival forc'd from

him; Many who knew his temper, admir'd, and ask'd him, why he out-liv'd that loss? to which he reply'd, That the Romans might not too-much glory in it, for to destroy Carthage and Hannibal in one day, would have made them proud with more justice, than they could be condemn'd for being so; that to deprive his Countrey of himself, was to doe more against them than Scipio had, who might lay too hea∣vy a Peace upon Carthage, if they had lost Hannibal and their Army; that it would have made his Countreys condition appear more despe∣rate than it was, if he had lost the courage of not seeing it, and that perhaps, the pride of Carthage might be her ruine, in not making a Peace, when the gods had abandon'd her, which he knew she would embrace, when Hannibal himself advis'd her to it. These reasons were as true as lo••ty, and to evince they were not excuses but realities, he went to Cart••age with a celerity that manifested his concernment, which place he had not seen from his Childhood, and where he was receiv'd ac∣cording to his Virtue, not Success. There he besought them to leave off their Tryumphs, since the gods had left off giving them the occasions; and that immediately they would conclude a Peace with Scipio, and so preserve something by a capitulation, lest they lost all by declining one. A Senator call'd Gesco, who thought it a manifestation of Courage indeed, to shew some, in a season when Hannibal had lost it, began to incite the Senate to a new War, by the example of Rome, who had lost her Empire, had she lost her resolution, and that they wanted only a Roman success, by wanting a Roman Magnanimity. But Han∣nibal inrag'd to hear those discourse of War, who were as ignorant of, as unfit for so dangerous a profession; and were only like Trumpet∣ers, that set Men by the Ears by their breath, but never fight them∣selves, arose from his Seat, and pull'd down Gesco out of his; which the Senate resenting, Hannibal (as the fair Izadora has told you) so excel∣lently excus'd himself by his zeal for his Countreys safety, and so Pathe∣tically declaim'd upon the making of a Peace, that he obtain'd an ex∣cuse for the former, and invited them to embrace the latter; This was the cause that the Consul sailing towards Carthage, was met by a Gally loaden with Carthaginian Ambassadors, who bearing up with the Ad∣miral, and using the gesture of Suppliants, were commanded to wait for an answer at Tunis, where the Consul arriv'd (after having brav'd the proudest City of the world with his Fleet) and where he was ad∣vertis'd that Vermina, the Son of Syphax was advancing towards Car∣thage, with a good body of Horse, either to bring the fate of that City to a new Tryal, and Field, or protract her ruine, by flinging himself within her Walls. This Allarm the Consul receiv'd as the means of an infallible accession to his Glory; and because he had employ'd Lelius to Rome, with the news of his Victory, and that Massanissa in the gaining of it, had receiv'd some wounds, which might have render'd his march against Vermina, more dangerous than the Combate, Scipio sent for me, and though I believe he elected me, because of those two great Mens being uncapable of then acting; yet with a flattering Complement he assur'd me, his choice was the effect of his judgement, and not his ne∣cessity, that he commanded me to go against this Numidian Prince, who by his largest intelligence, was not above 8000; that he had select∣ed me 4000 choice Horse for this Expedition, suplying the defects of their numbers, by the Gallantry which compos'd them, and that he gave me so few, that my courage might be the more conspicuous. I will not

tell you in what words I cloath'd my Gratitude, I rather was covetous to express it by my actions, which the sooner to perform, I went to the Ren∣dezvous, where I found my little Army ready to march: I would not loose that good disposition they were in, but having assur'd them, I was as con∣scious of the Consuls injustice in putting me at their head, as any of them could be, and that I knew them so perfectly, that I would make less scru∣ple to Serve under, than Command over them: I immediately sent out my Forlorn-Hope, which had not march'd Ten miles, e're they return'd me word, that they had discover'd the Enemy, which could not be less than 15000 Horse. I told the Messenger, that sure they had seen with multiply∣ing Eyes, but yet the greater the number was, the greater the Glory, and then desir'd my Body to continue their march a Foot-pace, and with twenty Horse I gallop'd to the place where my Adverti∣zers were, where again they confirm'd their first intelligence, but Vermina had so cover'd his Army, that I could not possibly satisfy my curi∣osity, by my Eyes, without beating in a Body of 500 Numidians, which I elected with my 250, and perform'd. The fruits of that little success, was the discovery of our Enemies Army, which I found, was rather contract∣ed, than multiplied by my first Intelligences, this had startl'd me, but that I perceiv'd in my little Troop, an augmentation of Courage, by that of Dan∣ger, and in them I found the pattern of the residue, to whom I retreated all the way in view of the Enemy, that prest us in all things well, but in success. By that time we came in sight of our Body, the Sun was sett, and Vermina perceiving so many Horse, took them for the Van of the Consuls Army, (that too, which fortify'd his belief, was, his own strength, and Scipio's care of Intelligence:) in this faith he makes a stand, and judging of the Cause of it, I resolv'd, whilst he was in so terrifying a belief to improve it to the best advantage, in order to which I sent a Soldier of mine, (as if he had fled from me) to let Vermina know, that Hannibal was defeated, and shut up within the Walls of Carthage, and that all the Roman Army was ready to make him a companion of his Fortune, as well as of his Cause; this advertisement was given just as I fell on, which was an hour before day, for I would not give it him sooner, lest he might have retir'd, and had the benefit of the whole night to favour his retreat; I sent also advertisement to Scipio, of what I had discover'd, and that he might think 'twas my Duty, and not my Fear produc'd it, before I had any return or additio∣nal Forces, I began the Battel. The obscurity, the news of Hannibal's de∣feat, and the belief, that we were all the victorious Roman Army, excel∣lently contributed to our advantage, though the Numidians so resolutely disputed the difference, that above 14300 found their Graves, where they thought to have found their success, but Vermina himself was none of that number; my loss was about 900, and I receiv'd a slight hurt in the self same place that Hannibals Sword had made one, which was in effect, but opening a little wider, that which was not yet well clos'd up, and consolidated. But the Allarm of the Numidian strength no sooner came to the Consul (who was then visiting Massanissa) than that valiant Prince, who merited a King∣dom from Rome, though he had had no Title to one, caus'd himself to be led to his Horse, and though Scipio earnestly disswaded him from so dangerous a Gallantry, yet with all the rest of the Roman Cavalry, and some Foot, he ad∣vanc'd to my assistance. I know not whether their appearance was any advan∣tage to my little Army, (for they came in sight assoon as we could see) but I am sure their actions were not, for they saw us Conquerors asson as they perceiv'd us: and their generous Commander, to give those entirely the

glory that had won it, would not so much as permit his Soldiers to follow the Execution, or to share in that spoil, which had been purchas'd at the expence of our Bloud. Indeed the Pillage was great, and their civility too which had got it, for they brought me a proportion, that might have as much satisfy'd my avarice, as the cause of their being so liberal, did my honor; and though I accepted their Present, it was only to deny them no∣thing, for immediately I had it all divided amongst those Soldiers, whose wounds disenabled them to seize upon what they had purchas'd by them; This just distribution wrought so powerfully on all the rest, that they thought I had only perform'd that action, to shew them what they had omitted, and in that belief, they made amongst themselves new Collecti∣ons, of as great a value as the former, which they begg'd me passionately to accept, for (as they alledg'd) 'twas unjust I should devest my self of what was my due, to repair their fault; This Gallantry from common Men was extraordinary, and if I have insisted so long upon't, 'twas to ac∣quaint you with theirs, not my own. To conclude this business, I declin'd the repetition of their Civility, and though it were in terms, as obliging as I was capable of, yet I found to have left them rich, was to have in∣jur'd them. Massanissa, after we had ended the Execution, came to em∣brace me, and to be civil, he was so unjust as to protest, that though Rome had made him a King, and Scipio gave him the Crown, yet 'twas I (by Vermina's defeat) that had given him the Kingdom. I did not answer this Complement, lest he might believe I was so vain as to think I had a Ti∣tle to it. I cannot tell you (generous Spartacus,) all the Tryumphs an•• Joys at the Armies return, since alas, I was torn from them by a storm, greater than the reception the Consul prepar'd for us; for as I was with∣in two miles of the Roman Camp, a Stranger (having drawn me aside as I was riding with the Numidian King) told me, if I were at leasure to hear him, he had something of high concernment for me from Izadora, who had expresly sent him. That fair Name surpriz'd me, and made me use the Ambassador from such a perfection, with Civilities, that manifested the re∣spect I paid her: after a thousand embraces I told him, Yes my dear Friend if you come from the fair Izadora, I am not only at leasure to hear you, but to desert all the Glory of the Earth for that of obeying her Com∣mands. You will (said the Messenger) somewhat confounded with those Civilities, at the head of the Army) receive them in this Paper, which I took with a transcendent greediness and devotion, and having open'd it, found it contain'd these words:

IZADORA to PEROLLA.

BLacius will give me to Flamminius, but I will give my self to Perolla, or to Death, if the former will have me, he must return suddainly, or he will find I am in the possession of the latter, lose no time then (generous Friend) since the least dealy will leave you nothing to love of Izadora, but her Memory and her Constancy.

No no (I cry'd out) fair Izadora (having twice read this Letter) I will lose no time, but go and relieve you from your Fathers Tyranny, or by my death, remove the cause of it; then turning to the Messenger, I

told him, come (my Friend) I am ready to obey you, and Izadora's Commands, and the gods knowing the justice of my obedience, will doubtless contribute to so necessary a duty. Sir (he reply'd) methink, as yet they do not favour your desires, for they have ty'd you to cele∣brate a Tryumph, and confin'd you to Affrick, by an opposite wind. Alas (said I, interrupting him) how ill thou understandest me, to be∣lieve that Triumphs or the Empire of the World, can one minute suspend my serving the fair Izadora: Nor those, nor the Winds shall stop me a mo∣ment; I'll force the Sea to be my Friend or Ruine, by perishing, in attempt∣ing of my Duty. Let us go then; (reply'd Izadora's Servant) That Gally which transported me, is now at Tunis, and expects but our return; she has a gallant Ginge, and nothing but a storm great enough to swallow us, shall hinder our arrival in Italy. Thou rejoycest me (I reply'd) for the best fortune next to our intended Harbor, is a wrack: go then and pre∣pare all things, that we may set to Sea within this hour, for before that time be expir'd, I'll be aboard. The faithful Messenger without reply, gal∣lop'd away, and in an instant, in a cloud of Dust we lost sight of him. But my Passion for her that merited a higher, was so great, that till the fair Izadora's Servant was gone, I took no notice that Massanissa and all the Army had made a stand, whilst I was receiving so fatal an intelligence; to repair their rudeness (which nothing could excuse but the cause of it) I rid up to the Numidian King, besought him, and who had known the ef∣fects of Love, from the fair Sophonisba's Eyes, to pardon those which pro∣ceeded from a resembling perfection. That generous Prince, at the name of Sophonisba look'd pale, and sigh'd, and then told me, he was sadly skil∣ful enough in the operation of Beauty, not only to excuse what it pro∣duc'd, but was bound by his knowledge of those effects, to offer all his assistance to them; and therefore he begg'd me to make use of five excellent Gallies of his, which lay ready behind the Promontory of Carthage, well mann'd, both for the Oar and the Sword; that if Blacius continu'd his Ty∣ranny, I might have wherewithal to disingage Izadora from it, and that I should find a plentiful Sanctuary in his Kingdom, which was at my de∣votion, by my having reduc'd it to his. This transcendent Civility I de∣clin'd, with all the submission I was capable of, and assur'd him, that it was by more humble Arms than those he had so generously offer'd me, that I would vanquish Izadora's Father; but since by what he had mention'd, he gave me the confidence to implore something of him, I would make use of those humble Prayers, to beseech him to Apologize for me to the Con∣sul, for my i••stant departure, since an hours delay might be the Eternal ruine of a Virtue, greater than ever yet had shin'd on earth; that my crime was the more extenuated by my resigning those Forces he trusted me with, to the great Massanissa's care, and after they had obey'd his Commands. That virtuous Prince undertook what I implor'd, and bid me not doubt but Scipio would listen to all excuses of Love from him, but to those which concern'd himself: he spoke these last words in high disorders, which the Consuls sad Commands concerning the fair Sophonisba had created. From Massanissa I went to make my excuse to those Troops I had commanded, who exprest as much sadness for the cause of my departure, as for my aban∣doning them. Some of them were so gallant, as to offer me their Swords and Lives, (which they might dispose of, being all Voluntiers.) I would not make use of so obliging a proffer, but having declin'd it upon the same score I had Massanissa's, I immediately took leave, and only follow'd by Strato, I soon lost sight of the Army, and recover'd Tunis, where I found my Gally

had weigh'd Anchor, and stay'd upon her Oars for my arrival. As soon as I came aboard, I animated the Slaves by Gifts, and Promises of exces∣sive rewards, and in the joy of those hopes, they chearfully began the voyage; but we had not crost half the Sea, which separates Carthage from Naples, when a ••urious Northern wind began to whistle so hollow, and so loud, that though it rais'd a storm of it self, yet we knew it was but the fore-runner of a greater, which soon follow'd, with such extremity, that the Mariners, and Slaves, were as much troubled as the Sea, and as deaf to all my Prayers, of continuing their Navigation, as the Wind. But at length, finding the Pilot had put the Gally before the Wind, and was steering for Tunis, I ran to him, and presenting my Sword to his Breast, I vow'd by many horrid Oaths, that if he did not change his Course, whatever become of the Gally, he should immediately receive his Fate. That which too increast the horror, was an Ecclipse of the Moon, which those Superstitious ignorant Souls, attributed to a divine forewarning of their wrack, and not to a natural Cause; but I had (whilst study was my employment) so great propensity to Astronomy, and made some such progress in it, that I knew perfectly the cause and duration of Eclipses, and having by a former calculation found out how long this would continue, what with my threatenings, what with my engagements to them, that if the Moon did not recover her former Luster (which I said she had only lost, in horror, and detestation of their fear) within three hours, I would be content to return with them: I made the trembling Pilot tack about, and the gods of the Wind, and Sea, with the Queen of Love, who sprung from that Element, so favour'd my resolution (which had for end, the relieving of a Beauty as fair as she, and which presented her more votaries than all the residue of her Sex) that after the Moon within the time li∣mited, had assum'd her former light, by a friendly South Wind, we safe∣ly arriv'd in two days at Naples; where leaving Izadora's Servant, next night I came Post to this City, but in disguise, lest the rumour of my arri∣val might prejudice the intention of it. Immediatly after I lighted, I went towards Blacius's House, to learn by what intelligence I could get, how to form my resolutions; and though there was no light in the streets, but what the Lamps of the Shops and Windows did afford, yet as I was passing by that House Pacuvi••s us'd to dwell in; I heard a Gentleman that stood at the door, tell his Companion, either I am infinitely mista∣ken, or that is Perolla which is going by; t'other being of his opinion, they immediately follow'd, and overtook me, and so confidently call'd me by my name, that I could not well deny it; neither indeed would I at any time have deny'd it to them for they were two of those intimate Friends, which had helpt me to force Hannibal's Prisons, when Blacius was in them. I was as much astonisht at the weakness of my disguise, as to find my friends without any, in a place where Blacius commanded, but they silenc'd that wonder by a greater; their assurance that my Father was too in Salapia; That the Senate, (after Hannibals abandoning Italy) had sent him a Par∣don for his Estate and Life, and were so generous, as to attribute that fa∣vour to those services (they said) his Son had done their Empire: That the Garison of Salapia was disbanded, and things were in the same posture they had been in, before the Carthaginian crost the Alps. All this I heard with astonishment, but being uncapable of any concern, but my greatest, I conjur'd my Friends to preserve me unknown, to provide me a pri∣vate Lodging in one of their Houses, and to permit me awhile to prose∣cute an intended design. All this (but the last) they promis'd, and seem∣ing

to know the scope of that, they begg'd me passionately to be sharers (and serve me) in it: this I as passionately declin'd, and having taken a hasty leave of them, I went alone directly to Blaciu's House, which find∣ing open, (guided by my Ear) I came into a large room, almost fill'd with company, that then were Dancing a Ball, and where the croud of Lookers on was so thick, that for a good while I could not come to see those particulars that compos'd it; but as soon as I did, the first object I saw, was Izadora, drest in all the shinings of a Bride, and with a Face as full of content, as 'twas of Charms. Judge (Sir) continu'd Perolla, speak∣ing to my Prince) what a perplexity this sight did cast me into, but after the first disorders of it was lessen'd, imagining what I knew to be a reality, was an illusion, I enquir'd of a Gentleman that stood by me, what was the occasion of so celebrated a meeting: He (without considering any thing but my Cloaths) answer'd me briskly; of what Countrey art thou Friend, that art ignorant of it? I told him I was one that dwelt not far off, and that passing along the Street, having heard excellent Musick, I had per∣mitted my Ear to guide me, and was come to hear it, but finding some things that pleas'd my Eyes as well, I was desirous to satisfy them too, and by his favour to learn their Names that did it. Since thou art a Stranger indeed (he reply'd) I will, to the best of my knowledge, inform thy cu∣riosity, assoon as thou acquaintest me with it. I would then (said I) be∣seech you to tell me, who that Gentleman is which goes so richly drest, and that becomes his Cloaths so well? 'Tis (he reply'd) Flaminius, who is this night to possess that Beauty (pointing at Izadora) which cannot be greater than his merit. Oh gods (said Perolla, interupting himself) you only know my disorders at so fatal an intelligence, but lest the Gentleman should, the better to conceal them, I begg'd him to let me know that Beau∣ties Name? 'Tis Izadora (he reply'd) I have heard (said I) that Izadora, (if this be the same) was so engag'd to Pacuvius's Son, both by Inclination and Services, that he only should have married her. 'Twas, the Gentleman answer'd, generally believ'd so, and I am sure her Father has been suffi∣ciently oblig'd to him, to make the gift of his Daughter the evincement of his Gratitude; but either her Inconstancy, or Blacius's hatred, is the cause of these Nuptials, though for my part, I attribute them to the form∣er, for methinks her Face is too full of joy, to believe her Heart is possest with a contrary passion; yet believe me, Friend (he continu'd) this Marri∣age will end in Tears, for I know Perolla's courage too well, to be igno∣rant of what his resentments will be in such an affront, and therefore I could gladly wish the gallant Flaminius had plac'd his Passion on an ob∣ject, as fit for that honour in all things, as this is in Beauty. I could not hear these sad words, without some sighs stealing from my Breast, which he that caus'd them, observing, ask'd me the occasion. I told him coldly, 'twas to find that the god's bestow'd the blessing of Beauty, without that of Constancy, which was in effect to lay snares for Mens destruction; but to take him off from considering me, and to learn whether there were any suspitions, or belief of my being in Salapia, I besought him to tell me where Parolla was, for I could not but think it strange, if her were a Man of Courage, that he did not employ his, to vindicate such a wrong Alas (he reply'd) the poor Gentleman I believe, is so happy, as to be ignorant of his misfortune: He is now in A••frick, where he has obtain'd within these few days, a great Victory against Vermina (the Son of Syphax) who it seems, is successor to his Fathers misfortunes, and consequently not to his Kingdom: this I was even now told by a Gentleman that came from the

Roman Camp before Perolla was return'd unto it, who I believe when he hears Izadora's Inconstancy, will curse his Fate, that he did not find his Death, where he found his Victory; but I am still of opinion, that he which takes Perolla's Mirtles, whilst he is gathering Laurel, will shortly find them turn'd to Cyprus, unless the forsaken Lover will esteem Flaminius possessing a Woman of as much Inconstancy, as Beauty, a sufficient pu∣nishment: I cannot tell you the disorders I was in at these strange discour∣ses, but I can perfectly tell you, that had not he which made them, been more intent in considering the company, than to whom they were ad∣drest, he had certainly discover'd me; but as I was about to retire to form my resolutions, (which I could not do whilst I saw Izadora, and Flami∣nius,) I heard a fresh Consort of Musick, which presently usher'd in a Youth in a Saffron Coat, a Crown of Roses on his Head, and an unlight∣ed Torch of Pine in his Hand. This I knew was a representation of Hy∣men, who is the Deity of our Italian Nuptials, and his appearing made me soon learn, that the intended Marriage was suddainly to be consum∣mated. I withdrew my self in the horror of such a sight, and having ob∣serv'd, Callione (Izadora's Confident) was not amongst the other Ladies, being perfectly knowing in the passages of Blacius House, I stole up to her Chamber, to be inform'd of my destiny; for though I saw her fair Mistriss (as it were) in my Rivals Arms and Embraces, yet I attributed my mise∣ry to all Causes, rather than to her Infidelity; which if by a miracle I should learn from Callione, she was capable of, I was determin'd to change the Marriage into a Funeral, by killing the Bridegroom first, and then his Murtherer at Izadora's feet. But Madam (continu'd Perolla, with an hum∣ble gesture, and accent) though I have as often begg'd and obtain'd your pardon for this Crime, as I have mention'd it, yet I must still continue that practice; for to think 'twas in the power of a miracle for you to be one, in any thing but Perfection, is a sin greater than all things, but the Mercy which has forgiven it: In confidence that you have so again, which I implore with an humility as transcendent as my offence, I will prosecute my Relation, which was so necessarily interrupted at my going to Calli∣one's Chamber, where finding the Door shut, but not lock'd, I gently open'd it, and looking in, perceiv'd there was no Light in the Chamber, but that there was some in a Closset contiguous to it; thither I softly went and looking through a Crevice of the Door, I saw Callione leaning upon the Table, with a Bole befor▪ her, over which she wept Tears enough to have fill'd it: so high a melancholly in a House where nothing (any where else) was visible but joy, extreamly surpriz'd me; but I was much more when I heard her say to her self; What Callione, canst thou then be faith∣ful to Izadora, when thy Fidelity is a Crime? and when she makes use of thy affection for so fatal an end, as to become her Murtherer? No, no, Perolla doubtless will be more satisfied to find her in the Arms of Flammi∣nius, than in those of Death; especially since her being the former, was her misfortune, not her design: He will too console himself in the knowledge of my Treachery, and pardon it, since 'twas to preserve, what his delay only ruin'd: but (alas, she continu'd, after a small silence) thou speak'st Callione, as if hind'ring her Fate in this Nuptial Bole, would hinder it till the hand of Age impos'd it: No, she that has resolution enough to receive Poison into her Breast, will not want it to plant a Ponyard there, when the first has fail'd: What wilt thou do then, unfortunate Callione? to obey thy Mistriss is to become her Executioner, and not to do it, is to make her become her own, after the gods too (by a Holy tye) has left

her no disposal of her self, and thereby must act her murther, by almost as high a Sin; she must dye too, Flamminius's and not Perolla's, and must detest thee as much as she will Life. Oh gods (Callione continu'd) you that have brought me into this Labyrinth, lead me out of it, and do not destroy a perfection, which suppresses Atheism, for nothing can create, but must be more perfect than what it creates, and to be more perfect than Iza∣dora, is to be without doubt a Deity. The fair Calliones's Tears for a while, interrupted her words, but the confu••ion they wrought in me (I attest, the same gods she invok'd) was so great, that I was in hope, what betwixt that and grief, I should never more have been capable of any: but those that form our Destinies, made not mine so favourable, for they render'd my Heart stronger than my Misery, and by that time they had perfectly restor'd me my Senses, I heard Callione thus assume her discourse. Yes fair Izadora, I will obey your Commands, the Nuptial Cup shall be poison'd, but you shall not take it, for I will go and acquaint Blacius with your re∣solves, who shall hinder them in such way, that you will attribute his care, rather to his doubts, than knowledge; perhaps your despair may more work on him, than your Tears have done, and when he finds you elect Death before Flamminius, he may let Perolla supply his place. No Calli∣one (I reply'd, knocking at the door) Perolla knows the gods, and Izadora too well, to believe the former have ordain'd me the latter; if I am come, 'tis to contribute to, not interrupt the Marriage. Yes, yes, I am resolv'd to give Izadora up all her vows, they have been too much her torment, for me to continue their possession; but if she be too generous to receive them by a resignation, I will present them to her by my death. Callione hearing my voice, (after a little trembling,) open'd the Door, and her Eyes had no sooner confirm'd the Intelligence of her Ears, than she cry'd out; Is it you indeed Perolla, alas, what Tears has your absence cost us? you can∣not guess them, but by the joy of your return, which revives my hopes, for the gods are not so cruel to send you to be a spectator, but a reliever of our Miseries. Thereupon, after some other discourses of this quality, to satisfy my intreaties, she told me; That Flamminius, a Roman Gentleman, who had no fault, but too transcendent a Passion for Izadora, had seen her one day in the Temple, where from adoring an invisible Deity, he ador'd a mortal of as much perfection; and being as great in the Riches of Fortune, as of Nature, had by some Senators (expresly come from Rome) pro∣pounded his alliance to Blacius, who meeting in him all things worthy it, and your absence contributing a favourable opportunity, greedily em∣brac'd the motion, and Flamminius began his addresses, with so charming a Grace, and Humility, that nothing transcended both, but Izadora's Constancy, which is not to be extinguish'd, but with her Life. I cannot tell you how diligent she was to discover an imperfection in her Servant, that might have render'd her declining him, an action of as much rea∣son to her Father, as it was to her: 'tis too much you know, that though she had you for her pattern, I tell you, said Perolla, her flattering expres∣sion, yet she could find no fault in him, but that in which he resembl'd you most; I mean the greatness, and unmoveableness of his Love; in this misfortune, to declare the good opinion she had of his Virtue, and to be convinc'd of the reality of it by an experiment, one day she freely acquain∣ted him with all your Loves, and how fully he might be satisfi'd of the fixt∣ness of her Passion, since he could not remove it; that therefore she im∣plor'd him to render that an effect of his Generosity, which else would be one of her Constancy; and that he would turn his Love into Friendship,

since she was as ambitious of that, as uncapable of the other. These words so mov'd the generous Flamminius, that his Bloud ran all to preserve the seat of Life, his Eyes were fix'd in his Head, his Tongue was moveless, and suddainly he fell so at Izador's feet, who in a fright, ran out, and call'd me in to her assistance; both ours prov'd so powerful, that after a quar∣ter of an hour, Flamminius came to himself, and having immediately begg'd Izadora's Pardon for the incivility of his indisposition, he only told her; That either He or Death would obey her Commands; and then retir'd to his Lodging, where, what reasons he rais'd against his Passion, I am ignorant of, though not of the strange effects they produc'd, for two or three days after, he came to visit Izadora, where he was hardly known, and where constantly afterwards, if she were alone, he never mention'd any thing of his Passion, but would only look fix'dly upon her, fold his Arms, and groan, and say he was not yet Conqueror. But if Blacius were there, he would court Izadora with a countenance as full of joy, as his heart was empty of it, and if he admir'd at Flamminius pining away, he protested 'twas an inward disease, but not one of the mind, nor of Izado∣ra's neglect. This was his practice for twenty days, the Night of the last, he came again to visit Izadora, and in Sighs, and some Tears, implor'd his Pardon for his Passion, Importunities, and so long disobedience; and protested that he would shortly so vindicate her, on himself, that she should acknowledge her Interests, and satisfaction, were much dearer to him, than his own. Flamminius after those assurances without any more words, immediately withdrew himself, and the next intelligence we had of him, was, that he kept his Bed, of a disease, whose nature the Physitians were as ignorant of, as of the cure; and that though Blacius, by many reitera∣ted, and passionate conjurations, begg'd again to know, whether Izadora's coldness were not the efficient cause of his sickness, yet he could never receive any other answer, but that she was not, at least if the gods impos'd not that affliction on him, for so aspiring a Passion. Six days Flamminius Feaver was so violent, that he despair'd not the Seventh (which in that disease was the first critical day) but to be able to obey Izadora. There∣fore calling to him a Page of his, who was his Confident, he commanded him to bring him some Paper, on which, (though with much difficulty) he writes these few lines;

FLAMMINIVS to the fair IZADORA.

HE that lov'd, where he should have but ador'd, to repair his Sin, from your Lover, makes himself your Martyr. Let your resentments, (fair Izadora) dye with the object of them, and be so merciful as to believe, I find more satisfacti∣on in Death, since 'tis the effect of my obedience, than I can in life, having lost the hopes of what my ambition desir'd, and your justice deny'd me.

THis Letter being seal'd, he commanded the faithful Youth, by all the strictest tyes he could invent, to deliver it with his own hands, and without any witness, to her to whom it was addrest; For if Blacius, or any other, discover'd what it contain'd, he should spend those few hours he had to live, inso much despair, and horror, that those torments would almost equal Izadora's hate. Judge (Perolla) if ever Gallantry was rais'd to a greater height, than to have so particular a care for the preservation of one's own destruction, and whether you have not cause to glory in posses∣ing a Beauty, which could produce such rare effects, and in a Constancy that was not mov'd with them; at least, no further than Pity could extend. I an∣swer'd

(continu'd Perolla) Callione's words only with a deep sigh, that the reflection of having been cursed with one Rival, too full of Power, and another too full of Virtue, drew from me, which made her thus continue. But though the circumspection of the Master, and the Servant was great yet it was fruitless, for having deliver'd Izadora the Letter, as privately as he was directed, Blacius, who always suspected Flamminius denials, pro∣ceeded rather from his goodness, than his Truth, and who observ'd an admirable vigilancy over Izadoras actions, was no sooner advertis'd of the Pages coming to his House, than he stole to his Daughters Chamber, who had scarcely read her Lovers fatal generosity, but she fell a deplo∣ring it with Tears, and in so great disorders, that in the heighth of them, Blacius surpriz'd her with the cause in her hands, which he violently snatcht from hers, and having perus'd it, contracted so transcendent a rage for her to whom it was sent, that his Ponyard was twice out to have quench'd it in her Bloud; but perhaps, believing to kill her, would be rather an ob∣ligation, than a revenge, he resolv'd as the most sensible one he could invent, to carry her to Flamminius, and force her to give him some such pregnant evincements of her conversion, that he should not doubt it; and which, if afterwards she broke, might render her as unworthy his Affections, as Resentments. Blacius being thus fixt, commanded a Charriot to be made ready, in which he took Izadora with him to Flamminius's, to whom he commanded her to be askind, as she had been cruel, or as he merited; which if she declin d, he protested by Oaths (that to be repeat∣ed would give one horror, much more to have broken them) that if he could hire no murtherers to destroy you, he would do it with his own hand, and that then he would force her to marry Flamminius, or Diana's Nun∣nery. The fear (as she vow'd to me) she had for you, the pitty of Flam∣minius sufferings, and virtue, and the duty to a Father, made her more in∣cline to obedience than her own safety, which the gods by the condition they had reduc'd her to, had render'd the least of her cares. As soon as they were come into Flamminius's Chamber, the poor Gentleman seeing Bla∣cius with Izadora, began to exclaim against the Fates cruelty, and not hers, that had given him no obstacle but want of health, to enjoy a Felicity as transcendent as her Beauty, This discourse the generous Lover held, for he was ignorant that Blacius knew the cause of his danger, his Page not daring to acquaint him with it, lest what was his misfortune, might have been esteem'd his fault; but he was soon put out of that Faith by Blacius, shewing him his own Letter. Oh gods! who can tell you those sad words Flamminius utter'd at that discovery (they were such, that I as much ad∣mir'd, as commended Izadoras Constancy not to have been shaken by them. But her Father who had solemnly sworn, that nothing but Flamminius's re∣covery, should convince him of his Daughters change, withdrew himself to a window, lest the dying Lover might attribute Izadora's kindness, to his presence, and not her conversion. Flamminius perceiving 'twas with design, instead of employing so kind an opportunity, to implore his Mer∣cy, in receiving, and cherishing so pure, and bright a flame, made use of it only to invoke her pardon, that the assurance he had sent of his obe∣dience, had prov'd so unfortunate a Duty, and then protested (with Eyes and Hands, elevated to Heaven) that if her justice would not in∣vite her to believe, he intended not to make use of Blacius authority, her reason should be convinc'd of it, by the demonstration of his death; and lest that might be consider'd as her act, he would by a Letter, and before witnesses, seal with his last breath, 'twas not her disdain that pro∣duc'd

so sad an effect, but the joy of her alteration, meeting with a Bo∣dy too much weakn'd, to receive so transcendent a blessing. This new, and perhaps unexpected Gallantry, more troubl'd Izadora, than had he made use of that power, Blacius was so willing to furnish him with; for she found it far more difficult to oppose Virtue, than persecution; and indeed her perplexity was such, that for a while she answer'd him in no∣thing but weepings; which the generous Flamminius observing, and perhaps fancying the cause of her disorders, begg'd her to believe he was more sensible at her Tears, than she could be for their subject; that all he said, or hoped for, was but to obtain a pardon for what his Passion, and Misfortune had cast upon her; that she would not so much contri∣bute to his Torment, as to manifest she was sensible of it; nor to his Re∣covery, as shewing him a Beauty, which was capable of greater miracles. This discourse confounded Izadora, on the one side to destroy so perfect a Virtue, and on the other, to preserve so dangerous a Ryval for Perolla, was a strange perplexity: besides, to give him hopes, was to cast herself into as great a danger as she exempted him from; and to make him de∣spair, was, (by Blacius's vows) against your Life) to involve you in a re∣sembling misfortune; but at length, considering that he had virtue enough, to give her a confidence that by it, he might in time suppress his Passion; or if that which was so strong in all other occasions, should prove so weak in this, that yet her, and your condition would be but as desperate, as without that Essay, she resolv'd to save a life, that the gods (but by Iza∣dora) had not the power to preserve. In this relation she told Flamminius (blushing, and trembling) I will pardon you all things, so to dye, be not one of them. O Madam (hereply'd) are my Crimes so great, that you deny me too that way of avoiding farther punishments? No (said Izadora) your Virtues are so, that I can better suffer your passion, than your ruine. I could not but sigh at those words (said Perolla) but Callione did not, or would not hear me. Ah Madam (she continu'd, Flamminius reply'd) do not you think me past recovery, and in that faith, do like Physitians to Patients, which are so, permit them any thing? or may not I fear I owe this preservation to your duty, not your mercy? But I carry my fears too far, and make them perhaps as injurious, as my hopes, which have no greater ambition, than to have the Divine Izadora for the object of their adoration, and that she will promise me, in the same moment she forbids me that felicity, I may (as by her Commands) end my life with what gives the relish to it? This (said Izadora, hastily, and in disorder) I promise you. And this promise (said Flamminius, kissing her hand) I do more joyfully receive, than that health and life it will restore me to, Izadora gave Flamminius that engagement, because it was nothing conclusive to your prejudice, and because Blacius (who was impatient to learn the event of their discourse) was coming towards them, who might have forc'd his fair Daughter to a more binding one, or to as great a danger by her declining it. To shorten my relation, Blacius, though he had many protestations from Flamminius, that his Truth, and not his complyance, publish'd that Izadora (as far above his hopes, as merit) had made him happy, and that his health should be suddainly a visible effect, and evince∣ment of what he profest; yet upon his return, he confin'd Izadora to her Chamber, till by Flamminius recovery, he was convinc'd of his Daughters obedience, which yet he durst not manifest to be his intention before Flam∣minius, who he knew would revenge any Tyranny upon himself, that was impos'd on his Mistriss, But upon his first visit, which was not long after (so

powerful a charm were Izadora's words) she was restor'd to that freedom, her Servant never knew she had lost; but it was upon condition, that she should receive Flamminius addresses, and the same minute she manifested any aversion for them, to be one of the vestal Nuns of Diana, which you know is a society, that admits of no return to the world, to any that are once ingag'd in it. If it had not been for Perolla, this threatening had lost that quality, and the pennance had invited her to the Sin: but she knew to be in the World, and not his, was as inconsistent with her inclination, as Vows; and that the way was easier for him to follow her to Elizium, than to the Nunnery; but yet the hope she had in his Fortune, and Cou∣rage, made her look, as at a distance, though as at a certainty upon the latter, and dispatch an express to acquaint him with her resolution, if his arrival prevented it not. But whether Blacius has heard of this messenger, or whether his apprehension, that your now accession of Glory, (which came to his knowledge last night by a Spye he kept about you) would make the Senate consider your particular, as a publick Concernment, ac∣celerated the Nuptials, I cannot tell; but this I can, that there was no in∣tentions of them so suddenly, and that Flamminius had never the confi∣dence to ask Izadora's consent, but contents himself with not learning her aversion for them, and in observing in her countenance, a joy, which has not only deluded him, but all those that have consider'd it; but alas, it was but the better to palliate her fatal resolution; which is in the Nuptial Bole that is offer'd to Venus, to drown her life; or else, perhaps she does not counterfeit: but her exterior satisfaction proceeds from an eternal one, that she dyes a Martyr for Perolla, and for Constancy, which I hope his ar∣rival will prevent, and convert our fears into nobler passions. For my part, I shall not tell you, either the Office Izadora impos'd on me, or the resolution I form'd on it; since I am confident you have heard both. Yes (said I) fair Callione) I have, and you must practice neither; I will act a part, that will exempt you from acting any. Then lifting up my Eyes and Hands, I thank' the gods for having communicated so much Divinity to a Creature, and implor'd them to direct my actions, for her satisfaction, though to my own ruine. This short ejaculation finish'd, I begg'd Callione, that I might have the felicity to see (and talk one minute with) Izadora, which she promis'd, and was no further on her way towards the satisfying her engagement, than her Closet door, but Izadora came into the Cham∣ber, waited on by Flamminius, Great gods! what tremblings did that sight cast me into, which I saw through the crevice of the door? I was once going to have made him no more my Rival, or to have been his no longer; but the presence of Izadora (and Flamminius virtue) ty'd up my Arm; neither though my reason had not supprest my disorders, had I enjoy'd the opportunity of acting my despair: for the cause of it, imme∣diately withdrew himself, with so much Grace and Humility, that I ex∣claim'd against Fate, which had render'd my being his Friend and Izadora's Servant inconsistent. Flamminius was no sooner gone, than she having shut the Chamber door, told her Confident; Now Callione, I perceive the gods are determin'd to furnish me by Perolla's absence with what shall evince, that my passion for him, is as perfect, as unfortunate; I must dye (Callione) and (beseech the gods to make me as unfortunate in the other World, as I have been in this, if I resent any trouble for my Death, but what I ap∣prehend it may create in him; and that by this one argument of my Flame, I am render'd for ever uncapable of giving him any other; but it may be the cause of my death, may extinguish, or lessen the effects of it. On

the contrary, Madam (Callione reply'd) 'twill augment them, not only by the loss of the highest perfection that ever was, but by his knowledge that that loss was his, and for him. Let us speak no more of it (said Iza∣dora) my resolution is too just, and too setl'd, to be remov'd; for, either 'twill make him love my memory, or follow me; and in this one perform∣ance, I satisfy my Duty, and my Love: the first being cancell'd by the hand of death, the last by going to a place where the object of mine may be assured to find and possess me; and I have stoln this minute to let him know so much under my hand. For thy particular (Callione) the trust I have impos'd on thee, is of a quality which manifests the greatness of it, and this is all I have to enjoyn thee, that thou wilt deliver my last desires to Perolla's hands, and that thou wilt, with as much resolution, see me take the Poison, as I will drink it. Come Madam (said Callione) I can∣not believe Miracles are ceas'd, since I see your constancy: retire yourself into this Closet, where you may deliver me your Commands, with more secrecy, which I beseech you to believe I shall faithfully obey, though I would not any of them with so much passion, as that of pledging you. Alas Callione (said Izadora) thou hast no griefs, which death alone can ease. I shall have (Madam (she reply'd) when yours are cur'd by that reme∣dy. At the end of these words, the fair Izadora open'd the Closet Door, and perceiving a Man there, for my disguise hinder'd her from knowing me) she cryed out, oh Callione, thou hast betray'd, thou hast betray'd me, but death hath more doors than one, and I will try them all, but I will find a passage. No Madam (said Callione, perceiving her error) your suspitions wrong me more, than you believe my treachery does you: 'Tis Perolla you see, and unless my presenting him unto you be a treachery, I am guilty of none. Izadora at that assurance, consider'd me more atten∣tively, and then continu'd; oh gods, 'tis not Perolla, but his Ghost which comes to invite me to a place, where Merit and Love have no Enemies, and where a virtuous and a happy Flame are the same thing. No, fair Izadora (I reply'd, prostrating my self at her Feet, (for till then my di∣stempers were too violent to let me speak) I am Perolla, not his Ghost, and am come to implore your continuance in this life, not to invite you to another; the gods will not so much tempt us to doubt their provi∣dence, as to decline rewarding your Virtue, on the same Theatre, where it has so conspicuously shined: for that were to make Sin Reason Callione (Madam) has told me such a story of Flamminius, that you must be the unjustest Woman in the World, if you make me not the miserablest Man: and that hatred of your Fathers, which I thought was the gods cruelty; I now find was their care, since it has reserv'd you to a blessing, which no∣thing can transcend, but my misfortune which builds it. I had conti∣nu'd this discourse, had not Izadora interrupted it first, by going two steps back, and then by saying; This is sure Perolla's Ghost, not he: for nothing but a Spirit, divested of Flesh, could entertain so high a Philoso∣phy; but can you esteem Flamminius Virtues great, that never but ha∣zarded his life to please his Mistriss, when at the same instant you make yours your misery, to reward your Rival? his performance carried its ease with it, but Perolla's it's torment; had I been curst with any doubts of your transcending him; this action had clear'd them, and what you in∣tend for the disclosing of his Virtues, do but the better manifest your own: neither can you think, but that his embracing your Offer, will render him unworthy of it; for the receiving a resign'd up Mistriss, is like losing a life for a Friend, where that act which makes the obligation, imposes an impos∣sibility

of gratitude. Ah Madam (said I, interrupting her) he that could dye to please Izadora, merits to live for her. Observe (she reply'd) the ju∣stice of the Gods, which furnishes me with Arguments out of your own Mouth; for you will acknowledge, to live in Torment is a greater un∣happiness, than death, and since you assure me by becoming Flamminius's, I must make the first of those your Fate, must not a higher Martyrdom, have a proportionate reward? will you make Izadora unfortunate, because the gods have made Flamminius generous? and will you give away what you have given yourself to? have you not rewarded a gallant intention, by a gallanter? and have you nothing to pay Izadora's debts with, but Izadora herself? Alas Madam (I reply'd) they are my debts, as well as yours, and I beseech you, judge of the value I place upon those that ob∣l••ge you, when I submit to such a payment. Great gods! (said Izadora, ••••fting up her hands) what have I committed, that Perolla against Reason, against my Tears, and against my Prayers, will part with me? cruel Pe∣rolla (she continu'd) fixing her Eyes upon me, after a short silence and weeping, you shall but extend your power over your self; you can but deny Izadora to be yours, and recall those vows you have made her: you cannot make her cancel hers, which were to be yours or Deaths; the first you willingly exempt her from, and the last she therefore as willingly e∣lects. When she had done speaking, she came again to the place where I kneeled, and after having wet my Face with her Tears, she dry'd her Eyes, and with a look as cold, as temperate, and as far above misfortune, as she was unworthy any, she told me: farewell Perolla, farewell for ever, but before I execute what your cruelty, and my religion renders necessary, I will satisfy you, and Flamminius by my Nuptials; and after in that Bole, (pointing to the poison) or in as certain a remedy, if that be deny'd me, I will satisfy my duty to the gods. At the finishing of these words she left me, as if Life had done so, but observing her Fatal resolution, and that to be just to my Rival, was to be unjust and cruel to Izadora, before she was gone out of the Chamber, I cry'd out to her, Stay, Stay, (fair Izadora) your Life is dearer unto me than Justice, Gratitude, or all other conside∣rations; and upon better thoughts, I have plac'd too high a value upon Flamminius's performances, that could think they merited Izadora for their reward, who can find none worthy of her, but he that she raises to that height, by her esteeming him so; and since she has created Perolla to, not found him in that blest condition, let her impose what Commands she will on the work of her creation, he will either act them, or not survive his im∣potency, and disobedience. All that I have (said Izadora returning) to en∣joyn you, is, that you leave no means un-essay'd (I will not so much wrong you, as to limit them no further than honor shall direct) to free me from Flamminius, and if those fail, to give me leave to do it. Farewell Perolla, though I dare embrace death, yet I dare not stay to see the event of your designes. Izadora was no sooner gone, than I begg'd Callione to let me know, whether there were a private room, in which I might by her favour enter∣tain Flamminius without witnesses, whose virtue she had given me so large a Carracter of, that I despair'd not to perswade him to abandon a blessing, he could not purchase, but by as great a Tyranny. I believe (said Callione) I might bring him into the lower Hall, which is kept empty for the cele∣brating the Nuptials; but allow I did, and that his Flame prove greater than his Virtue? Ah Callione (I reply'd) do not do the latter so much wrong, nor me, as to ask what my resentments will be, at so high an inju∣stice. I will not (said Callione) do my innocence so much, for if I know

your intentions, perhaps I might not contribute towards them, but being ignorant what they are, I may serve you without a Sin: Go then Perolla into the great room, pav'd with Marble, whereas certainly I will send him, as that my Prayers shall attend you. Her going away immediately, left me no time to answer, and that little I had left, was too precious to be mis∣imployed: I therefore stole down to the place I was assign'd, where I had not long continu'd, but Flamminius came alone unto me; I besought him first to permit me to lock the doo••, for my intelligence was to be without witnesses, or interruption. This he consented to, and this being perform'd I took off my disguise, and told him; The gods shall bear me witness, ge∣nerous Flamminius, that I almost esteem my not unfruitful Passion to Izadora a misfortune, since I fear it may deny me a friendship, which is a blessing next to hers I should be most ambitious of, and most cherish; For you have been my Rival in so handsom a way, that I must acknowledge her declining, the giving you yet a more advantageous Name, is as great a demonstration of her partiality, as of my happiness; I have too, been so bold, as to tell her this truth in your behalf, and some things more as hard to be credited, as perhaps they were to be spoken. Yes Flamminius, I have been your Advocate against my selfe, and have passionately pleaded your Cause, with hope of success, though I know I could not obtain it, but by my eternal ruine; neither should I now have alter'd that practice, were not Izadora's Life the cause of it, who more constant to her Vows than her Felicity, prefers Perolla, or Death before Flamminius; so that the lat∣ter cannot attempt to be her Husband, but he will necessitate her to be her own Executioner, and by so fatal a perseverance, not only extinguish the fairest light that ever shin'd, but make your self so guilty to your self, that should Izadora want friends to revenge your cruelty, your Conscience would assume that part, and act it with as much certainty, as horror. There is glory Flamminius as well as Reason in declining one Blessing, for a great∣er, and of two evils you choose the least, when you elect your own ruine, before Izadora's; neither should I ever have had the confidence to beg this of you, had I not begg'd more for you, and were I only to receive the fruit of your Virtue, I would never have implor'd it: For Blacius being as constant in his Hate, as I am in my Love, I shall remove no obstacle by re∣moving my Rival; but remain at as great a distance from my happiness, though you decline possessing it, as I shall be if you act the contrary. I will not tell you (Sir) what were Flamminius astonishments, both at learning who I was, and my requests; for they were indeed of a quality fitter to be imagin'd than related: but his answer (after a little silence) was this. Though I only know Perolla by report, yet I believe him such as he is de∣scrib'd, but had I been as ignorant of his actions, as his Person, I must have concluded them both excellent (I tell you said Perolla) true, though not the truth) since they had charms sufficient to captivate Izadora, who ha∣ving her own perfections to try others by, evinces his to be great, since they were esteem'd so by her. This faith (when I first saw Izadora) made me esteem my engaging my self in her service, and becoming your Rival, an action of as little justice, as hope: but that Beauty which is the cause of my Flame, must be the Apology of it, which would need none to any but Perolla; and lest he might believe the distance betwixt him and Bla∣cius, did create my expectations of a nearness betwixt his admirable Daugh∣ter, and me, I declin'd all Arms to conquer her with, but those you made use of, and would be oblig'd to Blacius for nothing, but his wishes, and the opportunity of making my addresses. What their successes have

been by the mercy of her to whom they were paid, is visible in this nights preparations, and in Izadora: neither by her commands, nor by her looks opposing them. So that though I should credit Perolla in all things as an Oracle, yet I must look upon what he now alledges, as pro∣ceeding sooner from his Despair, than Truth, and believe since art in Love, is rather a Virtue, than a Crime, that he considering of it in that quality, does make use of it to destroy what Izadora's Mercy and Duty, have elected to conferr on Flamminius, to the prejudice (perhaps) of her in∣clination, and of her Reason. If (I reply'd) I am troubl'd at your not be∣lieving me, it is only by knowing what prejudice it may involve Izadora in; to whom you have hitherto been so civil, that I am upon that score uncapable of resenting any thing from you, as an injury to me, which does not absolutely prove one to her, and if there be any Art in speaking Truth, what I have alledg'd, is abundantly replenish'd with it, for by Iza∣dora (an oath I hold in too much veneration to violate) what I have told you is a real truth, and, is only in design, to preserve you from a sin, the very thought whereof doth make me tremble. You must pardon me Pe∣rolla (said Flamminius, interrupting me) if I cannot raise my Faith so far above my reason. Alas (I reply'd) I must of necessity be oblig'd only to your Faith, for your doubts are of so sad a nature, that if reason and de∣monstration only must remove them, the very performance which does it, will render you uncapable of making any advantage by their suppression, and the knowledge of your mistake. No Perolla (said Flamminius) I have not been so rude an admirer of Izadora, as not before now to have con∣vinc'd her, that I prefer my obedience before my death, and when to ma∣nifest that reality, I had almost made use of a demonstration, I would not again return to life, (left her enjoyning me, it might have proceeded from her Duty, or her present pity) till she had faithfully engag'd her self, to permit my death, when she would no longer my Passion; so that having given her the power, when she has the will to be free from my Flame, I cannot consider you now, but as your own, and not Izador's Agent. Alas Flamminius (I answer'd) that which you build upon the Cause of your Confidence, will be of our Misery, and her ruine; for the engagement Izadora gave you, the invitation to which was your virtue, with the condition you were in, when she gave it you, and her fear of what you may do, by what you have done, makes her elect her own Death, ra∣ther than avoid it by yours; so that what you chose to evince your respect by, turns to a Tyranny; but let her generosity instruct yours, and remem∣ber it can be but virtuous to imitate Izadora. You make me (said Flammi∣nius) happy whether I do, or do not credit you: for if the latter by my choice, there is nothing since I spoke with you that troubles me, and con-sequently I am in joyes of hopes, till those of fruition converts them into greater: and if the former, I must be convinc'd that Izadora loves Flamminius better than her self; but yet (he continu'd) were I assur'd so fatal a proof, must certify that Truth, I should be less unfor∣tunate in her hate, than her esteem; besides (he continu'd preparing himself to leave me) Izadora knowing her death, will be so far from preventing, that it will but accellerate mine. I must again (Perolla) beg your pardon, for not crediting your vows, which you may grant with the less reluctancy, since my unbelief is with reason and against my self. Then (I reply'd) staying him, and drawing my Ponyard, which was all the Arms I had then about me, you must either oblige me so much, as not to let me live to see you restor'd

to a better opinion of me by so black an Experiment, or you must not live to be Izadora's death; which, were I not certain your intended Nuptials would prove, I had rather make use of my hand against my self, than Flam∣minius. Since (said he, unsheathing his Ponyard, which was a Weapon all Gentlemen constantly wore in those times) you will force me to dis∣pute Izadora by my Arms, as well as by my Services, I make no question but to prove as successful in the first, as I have been in the last. We had no more words after those, but ran furiously at each other; my thrust was more fortunate than Flamminius's, for though his entered my right side, yet meeting with a Rib, and glauncing on it, it gave me but a large flesh wound, whereas mine past through and through his body, a little above his heart; and our Weapons being not long, we were constrain'd to close, in which I had the fortune to fling him down, and disarm him; but percei∣ving by the great Spring of blood which issu'd from his wound, that I had at least for awhile hinder'd his Marriage, presenting him his Ponyard, I implor'd his forgiveness for what I had done, beg'd him to be satisfi'd by my being able to have success against him, that I had the better cause; and besought him not to implore that life I gave him, and Izadora had preser∣ved, for his ruine, and for mine: since he would hereafter know how near she was to sacrifice her own for his, and that I would ever be of a resemb∣ling resolution. Flamminius made me some answer which I could not hear, for having effected my design, (though in the most unfortunate way) I thought it high time to retire, lest a longer continuance in so dangerous a place, might rob me of the fruits of my Victory. I was but newly gone out of the Room, when (occasion'd by the curiosity of some that had listen'd at the door whil'st we were fighting) I heard all the house in an alarm, and was scarce half way out of it, but that I found my self in a narrow Entry assaulted by four with Swords, who cry'd out, Kill, Kill, the Murtherer of Flamminius; one of those was so hot in his fury, that run∣ning at me, he stumbled, and fell at my feet, and by his fall choaking up the passage, I had time to take away his Sword, with which for awhile I re∣treated safe against the rest; but as soon as I was come into a more spacious place, not only the other three came all upon me, but most of that crowd which were invited to this Marriage, and Blacius at the head of them: so that I had certainly there receiv'd my Fate, had not those two Friends I formerly specified, with Strato, relieved me; who suspecting my design, had continu'd about the house ready to answer all alarms; and this they did so vigorously, that having worsted some that oppos'd their entrance, they join'd me in my greatest danger, and crying out, Courage Perolla, by their voyces, and their performances, had restor'd me mine, though I had lost it. The name of Perolla, made Blacius discover what my disguise had conceal'd; and the affront, but more the Actor of it, so transported him, that striking at me with all his force, and I defending his blow with my Ponyard, his Sword fell out of his hand, which snatching up, I presented it him by the hilt, and beg'd him not to employ his Arms against a life, that I was perpetually ready to sacrifice for his service. Blacius was so extreme∣ly surpriz'd at the loss of his Sword, and at the manner of his recovering it, that I had time to leave him in his astonishment: But I ow'd it to the Valor of the Gentleman with whom I had that discourse at my first coming into the Room where the Ball was dancing, who learning by the publick noise that I was Perolla, and pardoning my attempt on Flamminius, as to my resentments, did preserve my life, by cutting off another Gentlemans hand that was coming behind me to have taken it away, whil'st I was restoring

Blacius his Arms. With this generous additional assistance, I recover'd the Street-gate, where I found by the care of my two Friends so powerful a recruit, that had my revenge been my design, I might as easily have acted, as desir'd it; and indeed I found a greater difficulty to suppress the fury of those Swords which were drawn in my quarrel, than I believe I should, to have been victorious by them. To be brief, I retired to a private and se∣cure Sanctuary, though most of us received so many wounds, that their be∣ing not dangerous, made us acknowledge a high Providence.

Whil'st we were thus disputing our difference, Izadora, though she were but a hearer of it, was (as she has assured me) in far greater fears, than any that were Actors in it; but being told that Flamminius was killed, she ran with Callione where he lay, and where she wept so many tears, that he almost mistook her Pity, for her Love; but Blacius being (after our re∣treat) come thither also, caused Flamminius to be carried into the next Chamber, and as soon as the Chyrurgions had searcht, and bound up his wound, the impatient Father asked him, Whether his Daughter had any share in this Tragedy? Ah Sir (said Flamminius) be not so cruel to truth and to me, as to suspect her guilty of such a Crime; for had she intentions of that nature, she needed not employ any to kill me, since she knows, she has not only the power to act it herself, but by the honour of dying by her commands, she has wherewithall abundantly to recompence my death. No Sir, he that has reduced me to this condition, is some Stranger, and Friend to Perolla, who believing him too much injured by the loss of Izadora, has so civilly endeavor'd to revenge his absent Friend, that I can no more com∣plain of his resentments, than I should at the loss of so much blood, had it been in Izadora's service; for after he had by courage (and not surprize) disarmed me, and that I had given him no slight hurt, when the latter pro∣vok'd him to revenge, and the former gave him power to execute it, he restored me my Poniard, and for that gift, only besought me to excuse those resentments his Friends interest had created, and so left me. Take heed Flamminius (said Blacius) lest you make me question what you said of Izadora's innocency, by seeming to be ignorant of Perolla's guilt, when that he wounded you, is so known a truth, that there are as many Witnes∣ses of it, as People in this house.

It may be (said Flamminius) that it was Perolla, but you cannot there∣fore conclude that I must know 'twas he; for if it were, his disguise might have deceived one that had been better acquainted with him than I have the honour to be; besides Sir, 'twould have been too much in me, had I thought it had been my Rival, to have given so large a character of his per∣formances before my Mistriss.

Well (reply'd Blacius) the certainty that it is Perolla cannot be great∣er, than that he shall never have Izadora, who I will think innocent, because you do, and who upon your recovery, shall be the reward of your passion, and your wounds. Blacius immediately after went away, and Izadora to satisfie her Father, and her goodness, continued with Flamminius, whose gallantry she admir'd, as much as she esteem'd herself unfortunate, in being uncapable of rewarding it. But he (as soon as Blacius was retir'd) some∣what touch'd with my carriage to him, but much more with what I had told him concerning Izadora's design upon herself, besought her, to permit him the honour of entertaining her without Witnesses, which she granted; and the Chamber being emptied, Flamminius told her particularly all that had past betwixt us, magnified my actions in terms as flattering as hand∣som, and then conjured Izadora with passionate and moving words, to ac∣quaint

him ingenuously, Whether all I had delivered was true? but she (more perplex'd at this question, than she would have been to drink the fatal Bole) for a good while did nothing but fix her eyes upon him, and cry'd out, Oh gods! Flamminius, Oh gods! Flamminius, What is it you ask me? And at length answered him only in a shower of tears, which drew another from him, and words so distracted, yet so significant, that Iza∣dora found, Rhetorick did not wholly consist in well speaking, or in talking sence. But Flamminius's disorder being somewhat mitigated, he continu'd, I perceive (fair Izadora) that your apprehensions I should destroy my life, when you do my hopes, hinders you from letting your words ac∣knowledge, what your tears have done, but I beseech you believe, that I shall be more tormented in continuing your misery, than in knowing my own; that I shall consider my affliction as my joy, if it can build yours; and if by the learning my own misfortunes, I may put a period to Iza∣dora's, she will more oblige me by building her Happiness on the ruine of mine, than if she continued my hopes, by her sufferings. Alas! (said Iza∣dora) what shall I answer? for your virtue is such, that it makes mine my pain; and that constancy which I still gloried in, is now a subject as fit for my tears, as satisfaction. Oh gods! she continu'd after a short silence, why do you make virtue so offensive to virtue? why do you make Flammi∣nius's virtue of such a quality, that I am troubled to profess mine? And why do you render perseverance in good, a torment as great, as the fault in declining it? Alas! Flamminius, press me not to tell you what I elected to shun by death, and guess at the nature of what I am to speak, by what I would have performed to avoid it; let it suffice, you having tied me to ap∣prove of your passion, or your death, and that since my preingagement hindered me from cherishing the former, to preserve you from the latter, I was willing, and am resolved to exchange our destines. Great gods! (Flamminius cry'd out) why did you teach me what retributions I ought to make so high a perfection, and so long delayed giving me the power to perform them; then turning to the excellency he had mention'd, he con∣tinu'd, Fair Izadora, you have not only taught me what to practise, but given me the power to act it: Yes, I am now ready to lose my hopes, with∣out my life, and the joyes of having served you in a way that you can no more hereafter doubt of, than reward my passion, will recompence my loss, and preserve a life which must be my contentment, since it has esta∣blish'd yours, and is esteem'd by you. But why do I lengthen my discourse? 'Tis sufficient you learn (generous Spartacus) that the great Flamminius made a resignation of all his passions for Izadora, but those of being ser∣viceable to her, and became as perfect a Friend, as he had been a Lover. This admirable change both he and Izadora acquainted me with, by a ser∣vant of his, to whom she had told my retreat.

To draw to a conclusion, during Flamminius's weakness, he so perfectly acted the Lover before Blacius, and so perfectly the Friend, when he was absent, that Izadora was convinc'd (by so painful a part) he was as much concern'd in procuring her for me, as formerly he had been in doing it for himself; but when his health was so much return'd, that he could no lon∣ger cloud the fallacy, we were all in new disorders: For Blacius, who was still confident of Izadora's constancy to me, and who suspected what she de∣sign'd to attempt for her own deliverance, would be as soon as Flamminius was recover'd, so strictly kept his Daughter, that she was then absolutely confin'd to her chamber, whose windows were grated with Iron, and whose doors were justified by a Guard. Flamminius, in this exigency, to manifest

his conversion, and to make himself uncapable of a relapse, advis'd us by speedy Marriage to exempt our selves from the power both of Blacius, and of Fortune; which course if we would elect, he was confident in some short time to furnish us with the means to practice. This both my Passion and Reason infinitely approv'd, and by Callione, with whom I had in disguise some private meetings in the Temple, I besought Izadora to be of my opinion, and made use of those very Arguments to her, that she had to me, when I was in the blest condition of Blacius's esteem, and appre∣hended the contrary from Pacuvius; but that scrupulous Virtue resolv'd it as great a sin against her duty, to marry Perolla without her Fathers con∣sent, as it was against her Vows, to Marry any other; and though the gene∣rous Flamminius represented, that when he could no longer conceal his change from Blacius, she must expect to be depriv'd of his assistance; which if not made use of, whil'st he had the opportunity of paying it, might pro∣bably alter her confinement, into a perpetual Prison; or by her Fathers presenting her a new Husband, necessitate her to act what she had but de∣sign'd: yet all he could extort from Izadora, (in my favor) was, that she would contribute to any thing which might secure her from her Fathers vi∣olence, so the place of her future Sanctuary were of such a quality, that she might be confident her Honour would no more suffer in Report, than in Act: this unalterable Decree cast us into new difficulties; and before we could imagine any way of suppressing them, Flamminius was so per∣fectly recover'd, that Blacius publisht within two dayes the Nuptial, which had been interrupted, should be consummated. This Alarm (which I receiv'd from Callione,) by that just and high character I had of my late Rival, had no further operation on me, than the fears of what advantages we might lose by his banishment from Blacius, who permitted no creature but Flamminius, and Callione, to see Izadora; and who kept a Guard as strong, as faithful to him, at the door of his House, as at the door of her Chamber; but when my hope had resign'd itself to despair, he that to create my joyes, had ruin'd his own, was not content only to leave Izado∣ra to me, but to help her to me; in prosecution of which gallantry, the day before the intended Marriage (for 'twas so long defer'd, either that he found not out the invention sooner, or else to endear it) by that free access he had into Izadora's Chamber, he came to visit her, with a Counte∣nance as full of satisfaction, as if he, not another, had been to enjoy the fruits of his industry; and there inform'd her, that he had seen, and con∣sequently ador'd her, coming to Salapia to visit an Aunt of his, who was chief of Diana's Vestals, whom that morning he had acquainted with all his Story, and whom he had persuaded, to repair what his Civility to her had caus'd, to receive her into that Nunnery, without those oaths which they really admitted must necessarily take, and thereby, by deluding Bla∣cius's belief, frustrate his hopes of forcing her return into the world, 'till she might make it her election, and not constraint. I cannot express with what joy and acknowledgment Izadora receiv'd this News, both which were in∣creast by Flamminius, assuring her, that before the Night was many hours old, he would conduct her safely to her retirement; and towards the effect∣ing it, presented her with a water of so excellent a quality, that its nour∣ture was Iron; this strange Liquor he apply'd to the Bars of the Windows, in little Channels of Wax, which did its operation so powerfully, and si∣lently; that late at Night when he repeated his Visit, he found a breach in the Window, large enough for Izadora and Callione to get out at, which they did by a Ladder of Silk he had purposely brought. They were no

sooner descended into the Garden, upon which the Window answer'd, than by the ordinary way (to delude the Guards at her door) he went thither himself, and by picking the Lock, they got into a retir'd street, where by Flamminius's appointment I attended them. I cannot tell you what were my expressions of joy, and gratitude to my Mistriss, and my Rival; nor what Prayers, and Reasons, I us'd to invite her rather to a Temple, than a Nunnery, and to embrace the opportunity of an union, when the gods presented us so favourable an one: that to decline it, was not to rely on, but tempt their Provicence. 'Tis too much you know, that all was fruit∣les, and that we conducted Izadora to her living Grave. Who can repeat Blacius's amazement, when next morning, instead of finding his Daughter preparing herself to be a Bride, he only found a Letter on the Table, of what forlorn courses his rigor had forc'd her to; but though his surprize, and astonishment, had been as high as fancy could reach, yet it could not transcend Izadora's and mine, when discoursing together, we were adverti∣sed that one of Apollo's Priests desir'd to speak with us, who being admit∣ted, we found `twas Flamminius which had taken that Holy O••der, and who told us, That having lost the hopes of this world, he would no longer livein it; that having been a servant to Izadora, he could not go less, lo∣sing that servitude, than become one to the gods, that he was the more fit∣ted for their service, by having practised under their perfectest resembler; and at last so passionately beg'd a pardon for having so much endanger'd Izadora's safety, as to have brought it to an equal Fight, (though his Vi∣ctory had been both his and her ruine) and so admirable declam'd upon a speculative and recluse life, that we could not more absolutely excuse what he had done against us, than admire what he had done for us; which had it not been of a quality that had plac'd us above the thoughtsof any other felicity, Izadora had esteem'd a real Nunnery, and I the taking of Flamminius's habit a blessing. But what he had perform'd, render'd fruit∣less what he had spoken; and his actions were more eloquent, than his words. When this great man had spent about an hour with us, he took his eternal leave, with a look asserene as his thought, and with words as heavenly as his profession; we both accompany'd him, as far as we durst, and then casting our selves at his feet, we implor'd him, by his Prayers, to preserve us in that condition, as his Virtue had placed us in; which having faithfully promis'd to endeavour, he return'd to that holy Society, of which he was the greatest glory, and the noblest portion. After our tears were something lessen'd for so sad a separation, because I had but that day allow∣ed me by Flamminius's Aunt to entertain Izadora in, (which too, was a favor above example) I employ'd the small time that was left, to implore her permission (now that she was in an inviolable Sanctuary, and my Visits thither prohibited) to return to Scipio, and Massanissa, by whose favors (upon the knowledge of my condition) I made no doubt but to procure the Senate to enjoin Blacius to permit our Nuptials; which course was suf∣ficiently justifiable, since we sought to make use of Power, but to oppose Tyranny; and to obtain that from Authority, which was deny'd to Rea∣son: that since the severe Laws of the Society she was in, permitted me not to see or speak with her, during her residence there, my absence in Asrick or Italy was the same; and by my continuance about Salapia, I might in∣duce Blacius to suspect she was a conditional, not an absolute Vestal, and increase his hatred, by increasing his jealousie. These reasons (and my engagement of a sudden return) obtained her consent for my journey,

which I began the next morning, having first sent a friend to beg Pacu∣vius's permission to pay him the duty of a Son; who returned me word, that he knew of none which bore that name, but that if ever Perolla ap∣peared before him, he should esteem it the highest injury he had ever done him. The grief of this message, was not much inferior to the satisfaction of having freed Izadora from so great a hazard, and the having setled her in as great a security. But I must acknowledge (Sir, continu'd Perolla, speaking to my Prince) in this Voyage my heart and my tongue were strangers; for though what I have specifi'd were the pretence of it, yet the design was to prosecute Hannibal, whose wrongs to Izadora and me, though they were as hard to be reveng'd as pardon'd, yet I could not but undertake the former, not being able to grant him the latter, and I esteem'd the Siege of Carthage would furnish me with an occasion. But as I was go∣ing to Capua to take ship for Africk, I met Scipio returned from thence; he Landed at Lillibeum in Sicily, from whence all the way to Rome he was met, with merited and triumphant Songs and Trophies. That great man ha∣ving pardon'd my uncivil departure, upon the knowledge of the cause, told me the particular conditions Carthage had submitted unto, without a Siege, (which are too long to be specified) and which were in substance, they had acknowledg'd themselves vanquish'd, in such a way, that the very proofs they had given of that confession, ty'd them perpetually to continue so. He inform'd me also, as a testimony of their believing them∣selves as justly, as absolutely conquer'd, that a Senator asking them by what gods they would swear to keep the Peace? He was answer'd by As∣drubal, Even by the very same gods we have found so severe to those that violate it.

After I had awhile congratulated a Success which none could doubt, that were not ignorant of Scipio's quarrel and virtue, and after I had beg∣ged his assistance in converting Blacius, I took leave of him, and learning that Hannibal was about Carthage, at Scipio's departure thence, I rowed down the River Vulturnus that night, next morning set Sail for Africk, and in three dayes arrived where I thought my Enemy was; but I found that but six dayes before, he had embark'd himself for Asia, and had elected the Court of King Antiochus for his retreat: Thither I directed my jour∣ney, resolving to prosecute him with as little intermission, as he had Izado∣ra's virtue; but the gods were so much enemies to my design, that what by tedious sickness, what by the crossness of the winds, I arriv'd not there, 'till there was nothing left of the Carthaginian, but his fame; he himself being gone to Prusia's King of Bithinia, after he had lost the Battel of Magnesia at Sea, by the Cowardice of Apolonius his Colleague; who fly∣ing away, left all the Right Wing of the Enemies Fleet entire, to fall upon the Carthaginians Squadron that was much shatter'd in obtaining a Victo∣ry over the Rhodians which compos'd the Left: But this misfortune was term'd a Crime by Antiochus's Courtiers, who apprehended Hannibals knowledge in War, would soon, if once manifested to their King, discover their ignorance in it. I cannot omit telling you a passage which perhaps you may esteem worthy the digression, when Antiochus was at Ephesus, and Hannibal with him, the Romans, amongst many other Ambassadors they sent to that great King, elected Scipio for one, who discoursing familiarly with the Carthaginian, desir'd to know of him, who he esteem'd the noblest General of all others? Hannibal answer'd, first he thought Alexander King of Macedon the chiefest; next to him, Pyrrhus King of Epire; and third∣ly,

Hannibal. Scipio (smiling) ask'd him, What wouldst thou say Han∣nibal, if thou hadst vanquisht me. Truly (said he) then I would have been the chiefest my self. This Reply was the handsomest Compliment I have heard, for without counting Scipio amongst the greatest, he inclusive∣ly acknowledg'd him so.

To conclude our Story, I will not tell you all Hannibals Actions under Prusias, in his Wars against Eumenes King of Pergamus, 'tis enough you know wheresoever I follow'd him, I found him (by his Military virtue) a General, and at last (through a thousand troubles and dangers) I came to Libissa, the Town of his Residence, where the next morning I intended to endeavor the finishing of that Combat in Asia, which was but begun in Asrick; and that which gave me the hopes of effecting it with less pain, was, that by a new contracted jealousie of Prusias's, he liv'd then but as a private person. The day no sooner appear'd, than I went to Hannibals house, but alas I found all his Domesticks weeping over his dead body, and inquiring from one of the principallest of them, the occasion of that dis∣aster; he told me, That Titus Quintus Flamminius, a Roman Ambassador to Prusias, having seen Hannibal in his Court, was so incensed at that object, by the remembrance of those miseries his Valor had involv'd the Roman Empire in, that he never left solliciting the barbarous King, to revenge their sufferings on the Actor of them, 'till he had obtained an order to have him delivered into his hands; which the generous Hannibal inform'd of, to prevent falling into a Romans power, had that night temper'd an ex∣act Poyson, and hearing Prusias's Guards forcing his Lodgings, cry'd out, Come, let us end our own misery, and the Roman fears, and then drank of the fatal Cup, which has afforded him that ease, which none that know him, and Virtue, can participate of, till they are in his condition; but (said the sad servant) I beseech you (Sir) observe in this example, how much the present Romans do degenerate from their Ancestors; those preserved their conquering Enemy from Poyson, and these induce a King, contrary to the Laws of Hospitality, and Faith, to betray his Guest. Hannibals servant could speak no more for weeping; and though I was sorry any but Perol∣la should revenge Izadora, yet I was satisfi'd that the gods (by making him become his own Executioner) evinc'd, his Crimes were great by their punishment, and declared their justice to be so too, in forcing him that had been her Enemy, to become his own, and her Revenger. The next day this great Captain was buried, and my anger dying with the cause of it, I esteem'd it a duty to attend his body to the Tomb, which had no other In∣scription, but HERE LIES HANNIBAL, and indeed was not ca∣pable of a greater. This Solemnity perform'd, I began to return into Ita∣ly, from whence my Revenge had too long detain'd me, but the misfortunes I endur'd, and the obstructions I met with were such, that I arriv'd not in this City, 'till the very day the Inhabitants of it sent to treat with the ge∣nerous Spartacus, which to do byfear, and not by necessity, I esteem'd so low a thing, that making my self known, I made their duty so to them, which was to oppose their captivity in a way, that if afterward it prov'd their destiny, yet at least it would be esteem'd their misfortune, and not their crime. The first day our success was proportionate to our desires, and the next, where Canitius storm'd, I had the fortune to oppose, and worst him; but whil'st a fresh Alarm drew me, though not the Guard, from that Post, by your unresistable Sword, you made a passage for your Army, as easie for them, as glorious for your self; But I thank the gods (Perolla continu'd) that I was call'd away, for perhaps my sacrilegious Arm might

have been employ'd against a Virtue, which to have fought against, or re∣sisted, would have more troubled me, than to be vanquisht by it, and which to know, is so great a felicity, that I count my defeat an easie purchase of it. The news of you possessing that quarter of the Town, no sooner came to me in this, than not knowing to what insolency the Soldiers hea••, autho∣rized by a successful As••ault, might raise them to, abandoning all other cares but those for Izadora, I ran to the Religious House she was in, and carried her from thence to Pacuvius's, there to preserve her Honour, or not live to see it violated; where all those friends I had about me, were lost in so gene∣rous a defence, and where (when my resistance was no longer useful) I deriv'd that from my Enemies virtue, which the gods deny'd my endea∣vors, and my sword.

'T was thus (said) Symander to Callimmachus) that Perolla finisht his Story, on which, if I have too long insisted, 'twas to publish what were a sin to conceal. It remains now to acquaint you, what period had our Lovers sufferings, in which my Prince so justly sympathiz'd, that he had doubtless made use of his power to settle them in their joyes, had he not first esteem'd it requisite to hear what their fathers could object, which ha∣ving invited them to, P••cuvius addrest his discourse unto him in these terms.

If I thought your justice were not as great as your conquests, I might ap∣prehend, after Izadora's Story, that you would not have the patience to hear my defence, but look upon that as an evincement of my being as highly guilty of cruelty, as I am confident by that time I have ended speak∣ing, you will think me free from it; for I will make it evident, that all those Actions which she alledges, proceed from his inclinations to her, and to virtue, are only testimonies of his hatred to his father. His high gene∣rosity, and a desire of freeing his Countrey, was, to kill Hannibal, my great∣est friend, which was far worse than to have murther'd me, my death had ended all miseries with it; but to survive such a friend, was to endure a torment, which none but he that resented it, can believe; or if I thought death a greater contentment than life, by that Action he reduc'd me to the sad extremity of being my own Executioner; but that which was worse than all this, he design'd to murther that great Conqueror in my own house, where he would have no Guards but my Fidelity; which to have violated, had been a breach of Trust, and Hospitality, two of the most sacred Tyes, and all this under a pretence of serving the Romans, who had they not scorn'd to owe their safety to a sin that had render'd them unworthy of it, night certainly have found spirits of a temper apt enough to sacrifice them∣selves, to have preserv'd the Publick; but the high esteem they yet pay Fabritius's memory, for not permitting one of Pyrrhus's own Subjects, up∣on (as it were) the eve of their ruine, to poyson him, does sufficiently demonstrate, they had rather hazard their Empire, than their Reputation; and certainly if they thought it gallantry in Fabritius, not to purchase their safeties, by only permitting an ill Act in an Epyrote, which he had no interest in, but what his knowledge of it gave him, how much would they then condemn a Roman, when their State was not near in so great a hazard, so that that which he would have appear an obligation to his Countrey, would have been really a sin against it, and his family: But besides, who knows, if after having done the Fact, he would not have fled, (for I can hardly believe, he that would act a treacherous design, would expose his life to justifie he intended it for a generous one) and so have lest me a sa∣••rifi••e to the fury of Hannibal's Soldiers.

The next proof of his Affection to me, was to preserve my greatest ene∣mies Life, when I might by so favourable an adventure have purchas'd that Death, which I would a thousand times have bought by my own, had not higher considerations, plac'd limits to my just revenge. He pretends indeed, that he comes to see me, but the event justifies, 'tis to preserve Blacius; he is loaden with wounds for the defence of Izadora's Father, and spends that bloud for his preservation, which could not have been more generously spilt, than for his destruction; in a word, he employs that Life I gave him, to preserve his, that he knew, made mine my greatest torment; and as if all those were not sufficient wrongs, he makes his House his Sanctuary, and thereby excludes me, and his friends, from affording him any demonstrations of our care; but that I look upon as an argu∣ment of his guilt, which was of a quality, to make him esteem himself safer with his Enemies, than with me. But his most unpardonable crime was, to become a Slave to one of that Family, whose greatest ambition should have been, to have made all of them his; nay, Courts her with Sighs and Tears, to accept his Liberty, and by a thousand such unworthy submis∣sions endeavours to make me question his Mothers Faith, which I should have done, did I not know one of the greatest vices, is to suspect she hadany; for in a long succession of years, there were none legitimate of our Line till the degenerate Perolla, but with their milk, suck'd a hatred for that of Blacius's; but he had no sooner gotten his health, and lost his liberty, but more joyful of the last than of the first, he quits Salapia, without paying me the duty of a visit, which was the pretence of his coming thither, and his impiety not being yet come to the height of attempting my Life with his own hand, he endeavours it obliquely, by taking up Arms for the Romans, against the Carthaginians, in whose party I was so engag'd, that he could not prosecute their overthrow and effect it, without involving me in their ruine; and when the great Hannibal, had justly censur'd Bla∣cius to death, for his pactice with the Romans, Perolla (that I might not suspect the first service he did him, was by accident, but design) engages all such of his friends as he could seduce, and with them, employs his Sword, and Life, to redeem my greatest enemies; in which attempt, as you have heard, he had a success proportionate to his desires; and after that Blacius was found out, and brought to the Scaffold, there to receive the punishment of his offences, lest I might yet doubt he lov'd his Ene∣mies, as much as he hated his Father, he voluntarily embraces Death, to justify that Truth. Judge (Sir) if ever there were a higher injury than this, and if by it, my hatred be not as just, as great, for in this one action, he destroys that Life, he knew (maugre all his ingratitude) I yet lov'd best, to preserve his, whom I hated most; but he was preserv'd from death by Izadora's Tears; Izadora I say, one of Blacius Family, which had he had any generosity, he should rather have suffer'd, than ow'd his delive∣rance to such a Deliverer; For my part, the cause of his safety, took away all my joyes for the effect, and made me celebrate his preservation in Tears: but though Hannibal pardon'd his life, yet he kept him in prison, where he had still retain'd him, had not the generous Maharbal given him his li∣berty, which he had no sooner obtain'd, than he employes it by bearing Arms under the Romans) for his destruction that gave it him; but perhaps he will say, he redeem'd that fault by giving Maharbal his life; to which I an∣swer, that was no satisfaction for the old Crime; but the acting of a new one, for he was only treacherous to his friends, to repair his ingratitude to his Enemies, and thereby committed one sin, to act another; he makes

the publique, pay for his particular fault, and redeems his own unworthi∣ness, by depriving the party he serv'd, of so considerable a prisoner; be∣sides, what happen'd was but an accident, but his taking up Arms was a design. Thus you see, those actions he most glories in, being diligently enquir'd into, are found contrary to what they appear'd, and if his best performances are crimes, what are then his others? He was an earnest per∣secutor of Hannibal, (my greatest friend) while he continu'd in Italy, all my perswasions, and Prayers, not being able to hinder him so much, as from acting against him in his person; and as if the knowledge of the affection I pay'd that great General, were a sufficient cause to creat Perolla's hatred for him, he left his own Countrey, and his Izadora too, to prosecute him under Scipio in Africk, and at that famous Battel at Zama, a thousand times ventur'd his own life, to deprive Hannibal of his; and though he al∣ledges that he preserved him, when he might have acted his destruction; yet I shall beseech you to consider, he is but his own Witness, and whether it be likely he would have neglected that opportunity, had it been offer'd, which he has since sought out over all the world, and never declin'd, whilst there was any possibility of finding it, He was not only content to injure me in my Friend, but does it too in my Enemy: and that I might not doubt his perseverance in his former courses, by stealing away Izadora (in which Sin every accessary is a principal) he violates both Humane and Divine Laws, and rather elects the committing of so high a crime, than that I should want testimonies of so proportionate a Truth; ••y, by his own confession, would have Married her, and joyn'd those two Blouds together, that never till then were united, but when they ran from Wounds, and mingled on the ground, and would thereby have ty'd my Hand from revenge, or for••'d me to act it, thorough my only Son. Lastly, and that I hope will not prove in your judgement inferior to any, when your victorious Arms had struck such a terror into our Citizens, that we were going to present you our Keys, and Liberties, he, by his unfortunate perswasion, and example, made them take up Arms, and for••'d you to purchase your Victory by Blood, reduc'd his Countrey and Friends, to a fatal subjection, or death, or to owe to their Deliverance to a Mercy, they have so highly offended, that they are unworthy of it; but if you exe∣cute the rigor of War upon us, and that your Justice involves Perolla in the publique Fate, I shall then find my happiness in my destruction, and more commend Fortune in revenging me upon him, than be displeas'd at her, for my own and Salapia's ruine. Spartacus and all the assistants, were infinitely surpriz'd at so strange a reasoning, and request: But my Prince put a silence to the general murmur, by inviting Blacius to speak, who thus obey'd him.

I attest the gods (said he, lifting his Eyes and his Hands to the place of their residence) that from the time Perolla preserv'd my life, it has been my misfortune; for if ever since, I deriv'd any joy from this Woman, (point∣ing at Izadora) 'twas only learning by my own sufferings, in her want of Duty, what Pacuvius's were in his Sons immitating her crime; but because she has told her own story with so much Art, that it may induce you to consider my resentments, as an injustice, I shall briefly give you a true Com∣ment upon it; I confess she had my Command to cherish, and esteem him that preserv'd my life; but she had it not to give those retributions to Perolla: That ignorance, which (I believe) procur'd my safety, pro∣cur'd that injunction; I found him my Friend, when I gave him my af∣fection, but she knew him my Enemy, when she gave him hers, Observe

too, I beseech you, how confident this young man was of having it; when the argument he us'd to make her declare that Truth, was only, if she avow'd it not, he would kill her Fathers Enemy; that which was a just motive to silence her Flame, was his inducement to invite her to disclose it; in which one action she doubly injur'd me, in not only being content to save my mortal'st Enemy, when too, she contributed nothing to his ruine, but the performing of her Duty, but also in making the pur∣chase of that safety, the loss of my only Child; she obey'd me, whilst she knew I was ignorant of what I did, and disobey'd me, when she ignor'd not what I enjoyn'd, but that also the injunction was just; besides, after I had preserv'd Perolla's life, when I had both Power and Justice, to ex∣tinguish it, by her receiving his prohibited visits, and by making a con∣tract of passions with him, she thereby endeavours to induce me to detest Charity, by converting the effects of Mine, into so sensible a gief; and when for my successful endeavours and duty to the Roman Empire, I became Hanniba'ls prisoner, she invites an assistance for my Liberty, which I had declar'd in her hearing was a greater misfortune than that execu∣tion I was menac'd with; whereby she did offend either my professions or me; the first, by not crediting them, or the last, in acting against them, if she believ'd their Truth; nay, she acknowledg'd she was apprehensive of losing her happiness, in attempting to preserve a part, intending her Lover by the former, and her Father by the latter, thereby becoming so impious, as before Perolla was her Husband, to give him a precedency, only due unto that relation: She is so earnest to disoblige me, that she impudently confest, she put her self in the highest perplexity she was ca∣pable of, to involve me in a resembling one. When I was got out of prison, in the hurry of that change, she endeavours to extort a declaration from me, that in a setled temper of mind, she knew my judgement would deny; gives Perolla unjust praises, to make me give him an unjust reward, and would render that an act of Friendship for me, which was but one of Friendship to himself, as you may be pleas'd to remember I then largely evinc'd; but when the second time I was taken, whether it proceeded from their revenge, or my own misfortune, I will not positively deter∣mine; Alas (Sir) how ungrateful was her carriage? she says that she came to preserve my life, but her actions say, 'twas to preserve Perolla's and when her Fathers, and her Loverslife, came in competition, she gave up the first a Sacrifice, to preserve the last from being one; neither can she alledge this impious proceeding, was an effect of a precipitate electi∣on upon a suddain emergency; for after she had publish'd her Love was the god over her Duty, Hannibal (startled at a Declaration which was even a Monster in Nature) gave her, not only leasure to reflect on her crime, but power to recall it; yet she, to demonstrate that the murther∣ing her Father, was a premeditated design, and not a hasty choice, per∣severes in, and repeats her impiety, when he that was to receive the ad∣vantage of it condemn'd, and detested it: which action of Virtue, her depraved reason makes a confirmative argument for her continuing in her vice, This (Sir) which I alledge, would be, I believe, the reasoning of a stranger, which has any, but now I beseech you, let us take her own sence upon this way of proceeding; she first alledg'd, that I had not been gratefull enough to Perolla's Virtue, and that now she was to act my part, she would make him know what his performances were, and what my gratitude should have been by her Retributions. To this I answer, that

besides my former saving his life, after his Father treacherously endeavour'd to take away mine, the condition I then was in, sufficiently confirm'd my Gratitude; for the same Proclamation which gave her a rise to save my life, by her declaring who 'twas that fore'd the Prison for my deli∣verance, gave me the same power, (for no one was excluded by the ma∣nifest) which my Gratitude made me decline, and rather elect to lose my own life, than secure it by hazarding my preservers; (for I was confident the Guards were too strict to have admitted his going out of Salapia) and though as in this action I evinc'd, that I preferr'd my Gratitude, before my life, so I did too, too, that I preferr'd death, before any alliance with Pacuvi∣us's Bloud; yet she persever'd in a passion, which tended to that, or a more unlegitimate end; Hernext allegation is as vain as the first; for to justify she murther'd me with a good intention, she designs to murther her self, as if one crime could expiate another, or as if having kill'd one of the Family, the destroying of the residue, were a sufficient reparation; No, Sir, she loves Pacuvius's Bloud so much, that she has a hatred to her own, for being the object of his, and so weds his resentments, that she executes her Father, herself, and consequently all her family, to act them; but my enemy wasmore merciful than my Daughter, for I receiv'd that life from Hannibal, which Izadora deny'd me, and though those Crimes (her Constancy in a forbid∣den Flame, and her seeking Death, because of a supposed loss which she knew, was my satisfaction) might have induc'd me to consider her suffer∣ings, as an immediate justice of the gods, for her want of duty; yet as soon as Hannibal threaten'd to be their instrument in it, I not only hazard∣ed my Life and Fortune to prevent it, but also embrac'd her satisfaction with so much concern, that rather than continue her languishings, I intend∣ed to set a period to them by giving her to Perolla; which I had effected, had not he at the same time I was acting his felicity, been robbing me of my Glory; for though he attributed his immediate leaving of Salapia after Hannibal's repulse, to a design of suppressing any jealousie his continuance in it might create, yet I was perfectly inform'd, 'twas his Ambition not his Respect, that caus'd it; and his speedy return to the Camp, was only to ingross an honor to himself, which in a good proportion was built with my Bloud; neither did his long abstaining from justifying himself to me, proceed (as his Mistriss said) from his ignorance of my resentments, but from his being conscious of the justice of them; (And though she magni∣fies Pacuvius's Sons gallantry, in crediting my Change, I must only his Reason, since in that only, by what I had already done, he might well credit any thing I should doe. But after that, by Perolla's new affront, I had alter'd my resolutions, by esteeming him unworthy of my Ally∣ance, that esteem'd me unworthy of justice, and after that, by my former concessions, I had manifested to her, my present resentments were effects of my Reason, and not of aversion for her Lover, yet she was so far from sympathizing with me in my legitimate resolves, that when I presented her Flamminius, who wanted nothing but the be∣ing of Pacuvius Family, she was notonly content to decline the Husband I approv'd, but elected one I justly abhorr'd; and when his being more in∣tent, in Affrick on her Revenge, than his Love, which might have some∣thing lessen'd hers, had like to have render'd her disobedience without excuse, she determines to abandon her Father, and the World, rather than a negligent Lover; and was satisfy'd with no way of being reliev'd from her Distress, unless she increases her own Crime, by making Perolla act

another; nay, so much abhorrs any thing from her Fathers recommenda∣tion, that Flamminius coming to her upon that score, she will rather ha∣zard her Lovers Bloud, than spare his. To conclude, that her impiety might be uncapable of any accession, and to resemble her Servant as per∣fectly in Sin, as in Affection, she (like him) by stealing away, violates all Divine and Humane Laws; and her not being Married, which she al∣ledges to qualify her Crime, is an aggravation of it, for flying from her Fa∣ther to her Husband, had been only an offence in giving Perolla that Ti∣tle, but flying from her Father to her Lover, she must be more oblig'd to Mens Charities, than to her actions, if they have not thereby as bad a Character of her Chastity, as I of her Duty. These (Sir) said Blacius, are my reasonings, and as I believe they are not much dissonant from Truth, which gives me a confidence, that if your justice be proportionable to your power, you will right an injur'd Father; but if her Sex moves you to pitty, Perolla's I hope will not; your punishment of him will oblique∣ly repair my wrongs, for either his death will be the occasion of hers, or if she revive him, her torment, or her cure, will be my satisfaction. This discourse did but increase that wonder Pacuvius had given a being unto; And my Prince was preparing himself to declaim upon a Theme, which would have furnish'd reasons to a Judgement as ill, as his was excellent, when he was diverted by a noise, and suddainly perceiv'd the occasion of it, was the coming in of Granius, Furiles, and some other Officers of his Army, that presented him with two Salapians, whose very sight almost de∣priv'd Pacuvius, and Blacius, both of theirs, and of their Lives: Spartacus observ'd it, and so did our generous Lovers, but being ignorant of the cause, they expected with much patience to learn it, which they soon did, by one of the Salapians, addressing himself to Spartacus, in these words. Sir, we are come to beg Justice of you, for you, These two Gentlemen (pointing at Pacuvius and Blacius) whose guilt is as much in their Faces, as in their Hearts, observing in the Assault, that my Companion and I, em∣ploy'd our Lives somewhat prodigally for the defence of our City, inferr'd from thence, that we would hazard them, to be reveng'd on the Conque∣ror of it; and in this Faith came severally to us, and by assurances of ex∣cessive rewards, hir'd us by our treachery, to destroy what we could not by our Swords. This office we accepted; were seemingly wicked, but to be really the contrary; and undertook to kill you, that we might preserve you; for we apprehended our declining their overture, might have in∣duc'd them to invite some others to embrace it, where the greatness of the reward, might have cover'd the greatness of the crime; besides (Sir) for us to have undertook such a design, had been a Sin against Gratitude, as well as Honour; for we are two of those that receiv'd our Liberties, when we expected our Deaths, and if we employ'd those Lives against you, which we receiv'd from you, 'twas not only by your permission, but by your command; and since to obey you, we durst draw our Swords against you, you cannot suspect we will decline any other obedience. The Sala∣pian had no sooner done speaking, than Blacius first, and afterwards Pacu∣vius, acknowledg'd by their words,, what their tremblings and disorders had confest; and though they severally alledg'd, that the ignorance they then were in, of my Prince's virtue, and their knowledge, that in him on∣ly consisted the Life and Soul of his Army, had induc'd them to that re∣venge, yet all the Assistants (but the generous Lovers) were so enrag'd at them, for their Tyranny to their Children, and their intended trea∣chery

treachery to so mild a Conqueror, that there was nothing heard in that great Assembly but Cryes, that Spartacus should revenge himself, that he should extirpate such Monsters out of the World, and pay with their Lives, those Crosses which they had given to Izadora and Perolla.

Granicus too, and the other Officers that came with him, inform'd Spartacus, that they had been already condemn'd by a Court-Marshal upon that Article, That whosoever endeavour'd the death of the Gene∣ral, should receive his own, for his punishment, so that he had nothing to do, but to give the Law its course, which in that case to oppose, was not to be merciful, but unjust. All this while the generous Lovers were so confounded, that had not their innocence been known, their disorders and trouble, had been taken for their Guilt; but my Prince having whisper'd something privately to Euriles, he went to Izadora, and her generous Ser∣vant begg'd them to excuse an execution which Blacius and Pacuvius me∣rited, had it been only for their cruelty to them, that in their deaths they might read the justice of the gods, by rendring their vices, (which had been the cause of their own troubles) the occasion of their Parents pu∣nishment, and of their own quiet; that since for him to be just, would make them happy, he hoped they would pardon a revenge, which he inflicted as much upon their score, as his own. Then my Prince bid Euriles carry away the Delinquents, to receive the censure had been gi∣venthem. At that sad command, both Izadora and Perolla cast themselves at Spartacus Feet, which having a while wash'd with their Tears, they begg'd him either to alter his sentence, or permit them to participate in it; that if the death of their Fathers must be the only way to their union; they would be content with the being eternally deny'd it, rather than purchase it at that rate; that they should be more miserable in the loss of their Parents, than in their cruelty: and lastly, they protested by invio∣lable Oaths, if they suffer'd; they would perpetually banish themselves from each others company, and either by grief or resolution, suddenly follow them. Then rising up from my Prince, they prostrated themselves at their Fathers Feet, where they again reiterated those engagements, and in such passionate terms, and moving actions implor'd their pardons for those disobediences their Lovers, (not they) had committed, and which they would suddainly repair, by embracing a resembling destiny to theirs, that my Prince could not abstain from crying out, Tyrants, are you so much fortified against Virtue, that so powerful an assault, must re∣main fruitless? can Fathers see that without pity, which Strangers cannot? can Nature be insensible against the attempts of Nature? Whilst Spartacus was speaking many things of this quality, Izadora and her generous Servant had by their weepings so laid their Fathers rage, as showres do storms, that those Clouds of hatred, which had so long hinder'd Reason, and Nature from shining, began by little and little to dispell, and they were no sooner absolutely vanish'd, than Blacius first went to Perolla, and Pa∣cuvius afterwards to Izadora, and in more Tears, than Words, acknow∣ledg'd their repentance, and conversion, and when their several passions permitted them to speak, they joyfully commanded them to consider their sentence; but as a tribute to the Law of Nature, and War, and that they should in the joys of their union, extinguish all the sorrow their Deaths could inspire, which they protested was not so great a trouble to them, as that they had so long, and cruelly hinder'd it.

I am, I confess (continu'd Symander) unable to tell you Spartacus's rap∣tures at this change; he first ran to the Fathers, embracing them, pardon'd

them, and gave them as many thanks for their conversion, as if he had been to enjoy the effect of it; then he went to our generous Lovers, told them, that his private Commands to Euriles were much different from his pub∣lique ones, that he seem'd to be cruel, but to make their Fathers just; that he was glad an attempt against his life, had setled the Felicity of theirs which he would have gladly bought by the attempts, having been turn'd into an execution. I should lose my self, did I acquaint you with Perolla's and Izadora's extasies, with Pacuvius and Blacius's embracings, their beg∣ing mutual Pardons for a hate, which then was converted into as great a friendship, and with all their gratitudes to Spartacus. To finish their Adventures, 'tis sufficient I tell you all things changed their Faces, and those passions of Hatred, Fear, and Revenge, resign'd their places unto Love, Friendship, and Kindness, and as soon as those wounds Perolla had receiv'd from the Sword; permitted him to heal those he had receiv'd from Love, he was put in possession of his Izadora, which was a felicity so far above needing a foyl to set it off, that his past troubles and crosses were not consider'd, but forgot; And lest you should think I have the two Salapians, or Spartacus, I will tell you, that the former had abundant cause given them of satisfaction, and the latters Adventures I will now resume, where I broke them off.

PARTHENISSA.

THE SECOND PART.

BOOK II.

AFter my Prince had seen the Solemnities perform'd of so perfect an Union, wherein he omitted no∣thing which might testify his satisfaction at it; That the Salapians might for ever remember, and be sharers in the joy; Spartacus assembl'd the chief∣est of them together, and in terms as obliging as the action it self, inform'd them: That least they might alledge Perolla's Courage drew them into their misfortunes he protested, the just esteem he had of it, and of his virtue, made him restore them to their former free∣dom; That for his sake, and the fair Izadora's, he would immediately withdraw his Army from their City, which should never approach it again but for their preservation, for which he would at any time relinquish his own designs, and repeat as great dangers to defend, as he had done to take it. This generous declaration (as they all profest) afforded them a satis∣faction, far transcending the grief they resented, for that loss, which gave my dear Master the power of thus obliging them; and to pub∣lish their gratitude, as well as contentment, they deputed immediately from the body of the People, certain select Citizens to the generous Lo∣vers, where after an Oration (too tedious to be remembr'd,) they con∣cluded, that since their own sufferings, had been the cause of their Feli∣city, they were so far from deploring them, that they would willingly un∣dergo greater, if they might produce a resembling effect. These Ceremo∣nies were no sooner finisht, than Spartacus went to take his leave of Perol∣la and Izadora, the last of which (in both their Names) conjur'd him to acquaint them who he was, for they could not fancy, so sublime a virtue had a disproportionable extraction. Alas Madam (said my Prince, extream∣ly surpriz'd) what is it that you ask of me? then after some deep sighs (which the reflection on his miseries forc'd from him) he continu'd; I take the gods for witnesses, (fair Izadora) did not an inviolable Vow tye me to a concealment of myself, I would have satisfy'd your curiosity, as soon as I had known it, but all that I dare inform you of, is, That I had my birth in As••a; that I am born a Prince of the greatest bloud of the World; that an infelicity in Love has not made me abandon my Countrey onely, but my hopes, and forces me to languish in as high torments, as you are now in joyes. These sad words, and the remembrance of the cause which pro∣duc'd them, struck Spartacus with so black a melancholly, that it prov'd contagious, and communicated it self to the fair Izadora, and her generous

servant, who judging what those misfortunes must be which could have so powerful an ascendent, over so admirable a courage and judgment, imme∣diately converted those Prayers which they had used for the learning of his Adventures, for his Pardon in having desir'd a knowledge of them. After that Perolla in civility and sympathy, had awhile continu'd in silence, he at last interrupted it, by saying to Spartacus, Generous Prince (for I should have given your Virtue that Title, had I yet been ignorant of your Birth) since you are resolv'd that we shall only know you by the felicities you have plac'd us in, permit me to offer you that life you have preserv'd, and made me relish; perhaps it may serve you, and help to build for you, what you have perfected in me; I know the fair Izadora will dispense with my absence, when she considers the cause of it, and will be as much satis∣fi'd with my Gratitude, as with my Company. This I implore (continu∣ed Perolla) as the only means to let you know my resentments, whose greatness you cannot suspect, since I beg even to forsake Izadora, to acquaint you with them.

This offer (said Spartacus, embracing Perolla) is far more obliging, than if it were acted; for I know no way which could render me more unworthy of it, than the accepting it: Neither could I embrace so gene∣rous a motion, without being as much an enemy to my own happiness, as to yours; for the only consolation in my misfortunes is, that they have put a period to yours, and by your abandoning the excellent Izadora, that also would be revisht from me. I should never finish my relation, did I acquaint you with all those noble tears and expressions which were shed, and spo∣ken, at my Princes departure; but, in a word, to describe the strange ope∣ration it had, not only Pacuvius and Blacius, but all the Salapians were un∣consolable, and so justly admir'd his Virtues, that they almost accounted it a misfortune to return to their former liberty, since the being deprived of his company, was the rate of that purchase. At last all the divisions and Squadrons of my Princes Army marched out of the City, rather like Friends than Conquerors, and received at the Gates so liberal a Largess, that they had as much reason to be satisfied with the Salapians, as the Salapians had to be so with them: All the Nobility and Gentry, accompanied him two Miles on his march, where they made him so many fresh Retributions for his Civilities, that he found his Sword had not been the only thing which had Conquer'd them. 'T was at this last farewell that Spartacus having ta∣ken his leave of all the rest, reiterated his Vows of perpetual Friendship to Perolla, whose grief was of a nature not to be exprest by any thing, so well as silence. But alas those Glories and Triumphs lost that name, or at least their operation with my Prince, he languisht in the midst of Prosperi∣ty, and had been more obliged to Fortune, if she had presented him with Death, instead of Lawrels. All that day, and the next following, he con∣tinued in so silent a melancholy, that those which knew not the Cause, ad∣mired at the Effect; but at last finding, that Time did rather improve, than diminish it, I took the confidence to conjure him by what he had so lately heard, to banish his despair, that his Love could not be more impro∣bable o•• success than Perolla's had been, and that I was confident the gods had shew'd him so miraculous an example, to raise and fortifie his Faith. No, no, Symander, (said my Prince) the gods are resolved never to let me see the joyes of fruition, but in others, they will give me the power to create all mens felicities but my own; and to speak truth, they have so far ruined me, that it is as little in their Power now, as Wills to restore me;

for Parthenissa is fallen into a Crime which admits no cure, and her loving me again, would but render her more unworthy of my love, for she can∣not now be kind, but by a new vice: Had the cruel gods been pleas'd to have raised me but as great Crosses as Perolla's, I might have strugled with, and perhaps overcome them as well as he, and should never have repined at my Afflictions, could I have propounded a possibility of ending them; but at the same instant that they made me wretched, they made me uncapable of being otherwise, and gave me no hopes in my torments, but that their greatness would prove their ••ure; whereas when they made Blacius hate Perolla, they made Izadora have a Passion for him; when they brought him to be executed, he received his life from Izadora's love; the cause of his preservation, being more pleasing than the preservation: and when they made Ha••••ibal his Enemy, they made Izadora's constancy his Friend, and gave it power to triumph over all obstacles; so that all his miseries were but demonstrations, and endearings of his happiness, he had never impossibi∣lities to wrestle against: For if the Carthaginian, and Blacius, were de∣stroyed or converted, he had alwayes Izadora's Heart, and Arms, ready to receive him; so that his obstructions (unlike mine) were in the way, and not in the end. 'Twas with a thousand such Reasons as these, that he an∣swer'd mine; and indeed they were uttered with such violence, that find∣ing my arguing would rather inflame, than lessen his grief, I determined to choose a ••itter season for my design. The night which succeeded this day, as soon as the Army was Campt, and the Guards plac'd, Spartacus (who long'd to be in his designed solitude) sent for all his chief Officers, and spoke to them to this effect.

Since (my generous Companions) we took up Arms only for our safe∣ties, and to repair our wrongs; and since the gods have contributed to∣wards, and perfected our designs, it is high time to think of laying them down: But before we put this resolution in practice, let us face Rome, and shew her by so bold an Action, that what we intend to perform, is our ele∣ction, not our necessity; from thence, if their fears will not give us new occasions of glory, let us march directly to the Alpes, which having crost, every man may return into his own Countrey, and I make no doubt, but passing thus through the heart of Italy, I shall load you with as much wealth, as glory. I must acknowledge (said Symander) that he extended himself eloquently, and largely upon this subject; but because I have so long dwelt on Izadora's Story, I am resolv'd to repair that fault, by cutting off all things that are not absolutely essential in my Princes. This motion found its wisht effect, for his Army were as desirous to secure what they had got∣ten, as my Prince was to be a Hermit; and truly he so doted on recluse∣ness, and upon any thing which nourisht his melancholy, that he would have prefer'd a Cell, before a Throne, and often told me, that since the gods would not afford him a Crown of Myrtles, he would never wear one of Lawrel.

In brief, the Senate having advice that we took the direct way towards Rome, sent Gellius and Lentulus (both their Consuls) to meet us, as to the most dangerous War they could employ them in; and the whole peo∣ple of Rome, by a thousand Sacrifices, and publick Humiliations, acknow∣ledg'd a fear, the justice of which, was soon made evident by an entire loss of their Armies, which in a pitch'd Field we absolutely defeated; but this Victory was bought, rather than won by Spartacus: For he purchas'd it by the loss of all the Germans in his Army, who, in a bravery, having quitted

that Post my Prince had assign'd them, found their destruction in their dis∣obedience, and their punishment in their fault: Canitius, who command ed them, came covered with wounds, and vowed to Spartacus, that thouigh he had been a sharer in their Sufferings, he was not in their Crime; whcch Protestation my generous Master accepted; as his excuse. But this suc••ess hinder'd us from viewing Rome, though we might have done it in a ar nobler posture than at the first time, being now more loaden with success, than we had been with chains. But my Prince, who design'd to face those stately walls only, because 'twas dangerous, now declin'd it, because 'twas safe; and thought what he intended for a Gallantry, would look (after the Consuls defeat) like an insulting; we therefore left Rome on our left hand, and march'd without any opposition, into that Gaule which extends its self along the famous River Poe, so celebrated by the Roman Poets, un∣der the name of Eridanus. Cassius the Pretor, and Governor there, thought with a select Army of 10000 Men, and by the advantages, and straights of the Countrey, to interrupt our passage, but he found by the loss of his Army, that Resolution, and Conduct, can overcome all obstacles; he had not the misfortune only to outlive his loss, but to carry the news of it him∣self to the Senate, who were so highly troubled at these successive dis∣asters, that immediately as a punishment of the Consuls faults, or misfor∣tunes, they recalled them, and gave the ordering of the War to Marcus Crassius, (one of those that compos'd the first and greatest Triumvirate) and raised so vast an Army for him, that the same of it coming to my Princes knowledge, it kindled that fire of glory in him, which had been so long cover'd, and made him lead back his victorious Troops towards this new General, lest if ever he were discover'd, the world might think his abandoning Italy, proceeded from the noise of those Forces, and not from a premeditated intent. Crassus, attended by all the Gallantry of the Roman Empire, joyfully understood that Spartacus was saving him the trouble of a march, and the less to harrass his Army, expected my Princes approach in the fertile Plains of Romania.

To be short, the night before the design'd Battel, Crassus sent Memmius (his Lieutenant General) with two select Legions, to lie in Ambush on the Left Flank of our Army, and strictly commanded him, That upon no pro∣vocation, he should discover himself, till both Bodies were joined, But my Prince, who is the vigilantest Captain living, and of whom no advantage is to be gotten, but what is given by Fate, sent two Soldiers in the habits of Italian women, to a height which was unsecure for our Scouts, and which look'd into the Roman Camp, where under a pretence of Sacrificing for the safety of their Army, they became the Intelligencers of ours, and soon ad∣vertiz'd Spartacus of this stratagem; but before he could engage them, they had recover'd a fastness, where 'twas impossible to make use of force, but yet next morning before the Battel was ready to begin, he gave Mum∣mius so seeming an advantage, that thereby he himself gain'd a real one, and by so sad an Argument as the cutting in pieces of 8000 Romans, made both the Lieutenant, and his General, of an opinion that he was invinci∣ble. Those that fled, were again receiv'd by Crassus, and having cast away their Arms to save their Lives, he furnisht them with new ones, but first made them give security, that they should keep them better than they had the former, and then reviv'd that strict Discipline of Decimation, where every tenth Run-away was executed in the sight of the whole Army; so that 500 ran to receive from their Friends that Death with shame, which

with less pain, and with Honour, they might have had from their Enemies. But for Mummius, his rebuke was so just and sharp, that he withdrew him∣self from the Camp, and by a lingering Death justifi'd, that whosoever in War undertakes an Attempt without Order, must either make Victory his Apology, or render himself uncapable of making any other. This Break∣fast hinder'd the Feast, for Crassus perceiving a pannick terror in all his Sol∣diers, would not expose those to our Swords, whose fears had already half conquer'd them, but was so much more a Friend to his Countrey, than his Ambition, that he advis'd the Senate to send for Pompey back, and rather endeavor to preserve, than increase their Empire. Three dayes successive∣ly, my generous Prince presented the Romans Battel, and the fourth day, as he was going to take up his late design of marching over the Alpes, and af∣terwards of confining himself eternally, in their greatest horrors he recei∣ved a solemn Embassy from those Sicilians which had cast off the Roman yoke, wherein they protested, That his Fame, and not their Necessity, made them choose him their Prince; That though the latter was pressing, yet the former was the only motive of their Election; That he could not employ his Arms more gloriously, nor more charitably, than for their de∣fence; That the only hope that his Courage would protect them, inflam'd theirs: But if they were supprest before he came, they would sell their ruine so dearly, that he should not be asham'd to acknowledge them his; and that they would all take up that consolation at their Deaths, that they dy'd Subjects to the great Spartac••s.

The Sicilian Deputies accompany'd their Oration with so many tears, that my generous Master, though he declin'd the Title of their Prince, yet he did not that of their Friend; and having compos'd a considerable Body of Men, as well for their Numbers, as their Resolutions, he Convoy'd them with all his Army to the Fare of Messina, and from thence sent them over into Sicily, where they renew'd the War with such success, as at length that fertile Island was upon the point of changing their old Lords. The daily intelligence of our Companions Victories, and of the wealth which atten∣ded them, so fixt all our Army upon participating of both, that they una∣nimously beg'd Spartacus to finish their labours, by setling them in so deli∣cious a Countrey, who willingly yielded to their requests, perceiving that Crassus absolutely declin'd a Battel, and that now he might with Honour profecute his old design, having no Enemies that durst oppose him, and ha∣ving given his Soldiers for their Reward one of the pleasantest Kingdoms in the world.

Consider, I beseech you, how deep a root his Melancholy had, when Tri∣umphs, nor the empire of Rome (which he might almost as easily have possest, as desir'd) could neither tear it up, or so much as shake it; and truly, to the best of my observation, I never perceiv'd him pleas'd but in dangers, and never so much troubled, as when he had avoided them; which I attributed to the height of his grief, whose torment was so great a bur∣den, that he would even have joy'd if Death itself had eas'd him of it. But to effect this determination, understanding that Menas rid with a good Fleet in that small Channel which separates Italy from Sicily, he employ'd an Express to him, who by large promises and gifts, receiv'd an assurance from him, That if my Prince would march with his Army into a Pen-insule of the Reggians, where there was good quarters for his Army, and a good Road for his Fleet, he would not fail within ten days, there to receive and obey his commands. Immediately the Messenger return'd with this dis∣patch,

and soon after Spartacus mov'd with his Army to the place assign'd, where, after twice ten dayes expectation, instead of discovering a Fleet, we only perceiv'd a single Gally, which having cast Anchor, Man'd a small Skiff, and sent a Gentleman on shore, attended only by two Slaves, who in∣forming the Guards that he desired to speak with Spartacus, was immedi∣ately conducted to his Tent, where he soon found it was that Gallipus who had made Pompey so just a character of him, that it had like to have pro∣cured his liberty. My Prince remembring it, used him with exceeding ci∣vility, and the first compliments being past, Galippus thus spake to him; Sir, I am employ'd by Menas to acquaint you, that as he was weighing Anchor for this Island, we perceiv'd a Sail to the Windward of us, and having im∣mediately sent a swift Brigantine to bring us an account of her, they both came to the Fleet, where Domitius, one of Pompey's greatest Favourites, presented my Admiral with a Letter from the General, (all written with his own hand) which was to conjure him, as ever he valu'd his friendship, that laying all other designs apart, he would immediately come to him with his Navy to Dyrrhachium, where then he was, and where he would expect him, being newly return'd from the Asian War, and from the defeat of Mithridates. This Letter (continu'd Gallippus) was accompany'd with such earnest and reiterated desires, from the valiant Domitius, that at last Menas, who fancy'd the business could not be but of exceeding conse∣quence, since Pompey thought fit to make him the Messenger, and not being above 18 hours Sail, and the Wind suddenly veering about to the South∣west, which was as opposite for our Sailing this way as fair for Greece, yiel∣ded to his request, and in two nights and a day, having crost the Adriatick Gulph which separates that Countrey from Italy, cast Anchor at Dyrrachi∣um, where my Admiral and I waited upon the great Pompey, who first shew'd us Letters from the Senate, (occasion'd by the apprehensions Cras∣sus had of your Army) which recall'd him out of A••ia, to finish the Bond∣mens War, (for that was (said Symander) the appellation the Romans gave it:) Then Pompey further told him, That being inform'd by a ship which accidentally came from Messina, that Spartacus had contracted with him to transport him into Sicily, he had sent for him purposely to hinder it, and to desire him, as he valu'd the title of being esteem'd a friend to Rome, not to transport those Slaves from the Romans revenge, and his glory, but as Italy had been the Scene of their Rebellion, so to let it be of their Ru∣ine. Pompey join'd with those words so many other pressing motives, and persuasions, that Menas desir'd that nights respite to form his resolution, which was readily yielded unto. I confess Sir, (said Gallippus) that the fear I had of my Admirals yielding, (for whosoever considers whether he shall do ill, has already done it) made me take the confidence (after we were retir'd) to tell him, That he ought to prefer the being a Friend to Virtue, above the being one to the People of Rome; That the way he took, made him unworthy of the end; and that to deserve that title with∣out possessing it, was nobler than to possess it without deserving it. I know (Menas hastily reply'd) all thou say'st is true, but canst thou wonder Gal∣lippus that a Genius which has triumph'd over Europe, A••rick, and Asia, should now vanquish Menas? No, no, all things yielding to that great man, makes it no shame for me to imitate them. In a word, seeing I could not make him continue your Friend, I made him vow he would not be your Enemy. The next morning Pompey having repeated his charms, obtain'd from my Admiral an assurance not to serve you, on condition not to be employed

against you; there were some of the Roman Colonels which mov'd that Menas should take you aboard, and then carry you to Dyrrachium, but that, both he and Pompey detested, the last alledging he would not cheat himself of a Victory. This being thus determin'd, my Admiral thought fit to employ me to acquaint you with what had past, to beg your excuse, to return your Presents, and to protest, that nothing but the great Pompey could have made him violate his engagement. Gallippus thus finish'd his Discourse, at which my Prince was extremely troubled, as indeed he was at all things that retarded his retirement; but least his melancholy might be misinterpreted, he made haste to return him this Answer: If your Ad∣miral had been principled like you, he would never have undertaken to serve me, or having engaged himself, would have perform'd it; but tell him from me, I am very much my own Flatterer, if what he has done to make the Romans his Friends, will not produce a contrary effect: For by necessitating me to stay in Italy, he will too necessitate me to conquer it; and that having hitherto had no designs but of Revenge, he will now in∣spire me with those of Ambition, and force me against my will to be victo∣rious: But (my Prince continu'd) because you have so generously op∣pos'd your Captains breach of promise, I give your Virtue that Reward I should have given his services; and thereupon presented him all those gifts that Menas had return'd, which Gallippus made some scruple to accept, but at last took: And then in acknowledgment of my Princes generosity, of∣fer'd him to sail into Sicily, and there to hire as many ships for his service, as would transport his Army thither; which Spartacus absolutely declin'd, al∣ledging, that he would not have his Gratitude hazard his Ruine; and that since Pompey was coming into Italy, he had now left the design of aban∣doning it, being 'twas only taken up because he could see no enemies there, but those which were his Prisoners. Gallippus admir'd at his gallan∣try, and having made him a million of engagements to sacrifice his life and fortune, when the Honour of his service should afford him an occasion, took his leave, and return'd towards his ••ally: But the report of his mes∣sage to my Prince being diffus'd over the Camp, fill'd some of the common Soldiers with such a blind rage, that not being able to discharge their fury on Menas, for the violation of his promise, and for leaving of them (as they falsely said) a Prey to Pompey's victorious Troops, they determined to punish the innocent for the guilty, and make Gallippus pay for his Cap∣tains crime, who not suspecting any treachery of that nature, was setting foot in his skiff, attended only by his two Slaves, when a croud of those in∣solent men fell upon him; at first he endeavor'd to appease them with an information of their error, but perceiving they were deaf to all reason, he retir'd into the Sea to his middle, that none might come behind him, and there with his Sword resolved to sell his life. One of his Slaves, in imita∣tion of him, got an Oar, and being join'd to his Captain, twice preserved his life, and gave so large a proof of a singular Courage, that my Prince (upon hearing of this Barbarism, being run thither) admir'd it, and judg'd that his condition was not answerable to his cloaths; but though Sparta∣cus's presence and threatnings qualifi'd, yet it did not extinguish the Tu∣mult; which he no sooner observ'd, than with his Sword, having killed three of the most violent, he ended the disorder, by causing five others to be executed upon the place. All things thus appeased, and Gallippus come out of his Fortification, my dear Master beg'd a thousand Pardons of him, that his Soldiers had so far violated the Law of Nations; and that if he

esteem'd the punishment already inflicted not sufficient for their Crime, he permitted him to be his own Judge. Gallippus assured him, that he had rather been too severe, than too partial; and having by many Compli∣ments repaid his civility, my Prince desir'd to see that Slave, whose Fideli∣ty, and Valor, deserv'd so plentiful a character. Gallippus instantly called him, and spite of his habit and some blood which endeavor'd to disfigure him, Spartacus observ'd that his shape, and meen, were answerable to his Courage; and after a little reflection on the inequality of Fate, in be∣stowing him such ornaments i•• his extraction were like his habit, or if the contrary, in giving such bles••ings so disproportionate a Fortune, he very intentively observ'd the Slave, and found that the Slave was not less fixt in looking upon him. This made him remember he had once seen some fea∣tures not unresembling his, and as he was calling to mind where it had been, he heard himfetch a deep sigh, and say to himself, Oh gods! what is it that I see? am I deluded? or have I already found what I seek? These few words (which were loud enough for Spartacus to hear) put him in∣to strange disorders, sometimes he cast his eyes upon him that spoke them, sometimes upon the ground, now trembling and looking pale, and then in∣stantly blushing: The poor slave did not only observe those alterations, but imitated them, which wholly converted my Princes suspitions into a cer∣tainty; but the better to confirm himself, he drew him aside, and having whisper'd something in his ear, they both, to our great admiration, embra∣ced one another with admirable Transports; I was present whilst all this was acting, and was so ravisht with the strangeness and intricacy of the Adventure, that before I could go to discover what it meant, I perceived them both returning to Gallippus, to whom my Prince said, He that was once your Slave, (Gallippus) now begs one of you, but does not intend so much to wrong your Valo••s wages, as to expect him as gift: the height of my desires is, that you will let me have him at any ransom; and if those Treasures I possess be not of sufficient value, I will lose my Army and my self, but I will present you too all those in the Capitol. Gallippus, who relisht nothing of his profession, and who thought to excuse himself to Menas, in giving the Slave his liberty, for the service he had that day renderd him, reply'd, Generous Spartacus, you have paid his ransom in desiring his liber∣ty, which from this instant I give him; and all I expect in exchange is, that you will believe I have been less beholding to him in twice saving my life, than in furnishing me with the happiness of obliging you. At this noble Answer, my dear Master ran with open arms to embrace him that made it, and then sent me for his Cabinet, from whence he took out many Jewels of an immense value, and by plain force made him accept them. Then Gallippus having acknowledg'd my Princes liberality in words as ample as the cause of them, and embraced a thousand times his enfranchis'd Slave, took of both, his last farewell, and went from them with as high a satisfa∣ction as he had left them in. Gallippus being gone, Spartacus return'd to his Tent, leading his Slave with him, in so high raptures of joy, that both his looks and actions testifi'd them. They were no sooner come thither, than he desir'd all that accompany'd him (but I) to give him an hour or two's privacy, and then he fell again to repeat his Transports with so much earnestness, that I believ'd in those very embracings he had lost the thought of ever doing the like to Parthenissa; but at last perceiving my astonishment was the effect of my ignorance, he was so charitable as to tell me, what! Symander, do you not know the Prince Sillaces? At those words

my Eyes were unseal'd, and I admir'd as much all that while, I knew him not, as then I was happy in doing it. I will pass by telling you how I flung my self at his feet, how I embrac'd his knees, and how I wash'd them with my tears, since all my Extravaganices were interrupted by Spartacus's who lov'd so passionately his Friend, that he could not be at quiet, till he had ask'd him what strange Adventure had reduc'd him to the sad condition he found him in. I know not (said Sillaces) if it be a strange, but I am cer∣tain 'tis an advantageous one; for when I least expected to find my liberty, and my desires, I have lighted upon both; 'tis you (my dear Artabbanes) that I seek, and 'tis only in that employment I have suffer'd miseries, which nothing could render tolerable, but the reflecting upon him for whose sake I endur'd them. the gods forbid (my Prince reply d) that I should be the cause of your sufferings, they are not sure so cruel as to render my misfortunes infectious; and to make those that share in my friendship, to participate in my miseries. You have none (Sillaces answer'd) unless you contracted them since you left Parthenissa. certainly (said my Prince exceedingly astonish'd) when you speak thus, you look upon my resolu∣tion, and not my condition; for there has nothing happen'd since I aban∣doned that fatal Countrey, which could afford me any ease of my tor∣ments, but what I found in my courage and resentments. Alas! (reply'd Sillaces) are you still in that darkness which your jealousie cast you into? must you believe Parthenissa criminal, till you appear so your self? and must I shew you your fault, to shew you your happiness? Yes, yes, (he con∣tinu'd) I see your suspitions will vanish no other way, prepare your self then to hear a Story, which these two years I have sought you out to tell you, and believe it with that faith you would an Oracle, for nothing it de∣livers is more certain. That which Sillaces tells me, (said my Prince) I alwayes credit at that rate. You had best (he reply'd) not decline that practice now, for what I must acquaint you with, will as much need your faith, as the cure of your Affilictions will stand in need of it. Spartacus, at these last words, had too great an impatience to delay the satisfying it by any Reply; which Sillaces perceiving, began this ensuing Relation.

The continuation of PARTHENIS∣SAS Story.

THE same morning, in which by Duel you decided your unfortu∣nate difference with Surena, Arsaces (as he usually did) was walk∣ing in those pleasant Fields which are water'd by the River Tygris, and as they were the shortest way to Ninive from the place you fought in, so he had not long been there, but he perceiv'd some four or five Men advancing towards him, carrying something betwixt them, which by the great care they shew'd of their load, manifested how much they were con∣cerned in it; but they were no sooner come near enough to know it was the King, than one of them leaving his companions, came with all the vi∣sible signes of an exquisite grief, and flung himself at Arsaces Feet, where the abundance of Tears he shed, hinder'd him awhile from shewing the cause of them, but at last (though his words were interrupted with ma∣ny sighs) he told the King, I am come (Sir) to demand justice against one, who has not only contemn'd your Laws, but you also: 'Tis against Artabanes that I ask it, who this morning sent Surena a challenge, whose courage has been so unfortunate, that this last proof of it, has (I fear) ren∣der'd him uncapable of ever giving any other: Yes (Sir) 'tis his Body that we are carrying back, and his Murtherer is fled, who could I have over∣taken, I would never have implor'd any other Sword of Justice for my revenge, than my own, and either punish'd the killer of my Brother, or not resented the misery of surviving him. That word of Brother, made us soon know 'twas Vixores that spoke it, and truly he so mingl'd his grief with his expressions, that Arsaces, who (you know) doted on that Favourite, was so inflam'd, that he protested by a world of horrid Oaths, you should never enter into his Dominions, but to bring your head upon a Scaffold. Then running to Surena's Body, he flung himself upon it, and by kissing his pale and bloudy Face, and a thousand such other extra∣vagancies, publish'd his Frienshdip and his Grief. I know not whether the motion in carrying, or Arsaces tormenting him, was the cause, but we soon perceiv'd that he began to breathe, and suddenly after, faintly to open his Eyes. Oh gods! into what transports did this discovery cast Orodes in, truly he was thereby so overjoy'd, that he perform'd many things un∣worthy of his years, and Majesty; but that these good symptomes might be improv'd, a Litter was instantly brought, Surena put into it, and car∣ried to his own Palace, accompani'd (on foot by Arsaces and all the Court. The Chyrurgeons having immediately search'd, and bound up his wounds, told the impatient King, that till the third dressing, they could make no positive judgement of his life, but they assur'd him, if his cure lay in the power of Art, they durst boldly promise it. I was present whilst all this was acting, and as soon as I found they left Surena to his rest, I stole out of the company and went to Parthenissa, in hope to learn the subject of your difference, but alas, I found her so drown'd in weepings, that I for∣got a while the cause of my visit, to bear her company in that sad employ∣ment; at length observing, that my weakness did but augment hers, I interrupted her Tears, by desiring to learn the subject of them, for if she knew no more than I, she had no just cause for so immoderate an af∣fliction. Alas Sillaces (she reply'd) have not you then understood what I came from being inform'd of, that Artabanes has kill'd Surena, and

being fled, Arsaces had solemnly bound himself by sacred Oaths, that the reparation of his offence shall be a perpetual banishment? Madam (said I) 'tis true indeed, Arsaces in his passion, when he thought Surena dead, swore what you say, but since, 'tis found that 'twas only a long swound he was fallen into, and that the hopes of his life are greater than the ••ears of his death, so that I believe the King will repent, and recall his vows. But Sillaces, (she hastily reply'd) do you tell me this as a Truth, or to flatter my grief? I tell you it (Madam, said I) as the former, for I pay you too high a respect to delude you into a greater sorrow, which I should unavoidably perform, did I give you a false subject of joy. Then (she said) one of my greatest fears is supprest, but I am doubtful I shall not so easily silence the other, which is (for, to you I dare boldly tell my thoughts) I apprehend I am the innocent cause of this disorder, and that Surena find∣ing the advantage, Artabanes had over him in my affection, has taken this fatal way to destroy his Rival. No, no, Madam (I reply'd) though I cannot tell you the cause of their difference, yet I can assure you, that which you mention is not it, for Vixores relation to the King, made us evidently understand, that the challenge came from Artabanes: Oh gods! (she imediately reply'd) what it Sillaces that you tell me? you have made my admiration as great as my grief; thereupon she began to renew her weeping with such violence, that I have often since believ'd, some Divine fore-knowledge of your suspitions, produced her Tears; for my particular, I was at first as ignorant of their cause, as perplext at their ef∣fect; but at last, remembring her grief, to repair my error, I told her, perhaps (Madam) Vixores relation had more of design than truth, and knowing that the Kings Edicts were only rigorous against the Senders, and not the Acceptors of Challenges, he to exasperate Arsaces fury, and extenuate his Brothers Crime, made that to be Artabanes, which was Su∣rena's Offence. Alas, (said the fair Parthenissa) would your conjecture were certain, 'twould exempt me from fears, which makes me tremble; But Sillaces (she continu'd) if you have any sense of that affliction, my suspence has cast me into, I conjure you to enquire certainly, and parti∣cularly what has happen'd, for I verily believe, the knowledge of what I apprehend, could hardly prove a higher misery than are my doubts. I was so earnest to obey her, that immediately I went to Lindadory's, as well to satisfy my Inclination as my Duty to Parthanissa's command, for I was confident, your Sister was as well instructed with your affairs, as any other could be; but alas, I discover'd nothing there but fresh causers of sadness, and found by a melancholly experiment, that the resentments of Nature, are as violent, as those of Love or Friendship, and at my first co∣ming in, though I had arm'd my self against all weaknesses of that quali∣ty, yet the fair Lindadory's Tears were so eloquent, that I thought it no sin to imitate them; and having mingl'd ours together for our common loss, I began to do that for her, which I needed as much my self; in brief, I so fortify'd her hopes, by assuring her, you could not be dangerously wound∣ed, since you had strength enough to fly from Arsaces choller, and that Surema being in a probability of recovering, 'twas not unlikely to make him recall a rash vow, where the performance would be a greater sin than the breach of it; that in the end I moderated her afflictions, and then ac∣quainting her how I was employ'd by the unconsolable Parthenissa, she permitted me to follow my enquiry, which though extream diligent, was absolutely fruitless; for though I ask'd of Zephalinda, and she of all her Brothers Servants, and Confidents, yet we could no more discover the oc∣casion

of your difference, than suppress the troubles it created. All this while Arsaces sufferings were not inferior to ours, that unfortunate Prince never abandon'd his Fvorites Chamber, and by promisin•• excessive rewards to the Chiurgeons, courted their Art and Diligence; but now the time was come, in which they were to give their positive Judgements of Su∣rena's life, and whilst they were taking off their Plaisters, the poor Orodes stood all pale, and trembling, and in a far worse perplexity, than if their sentence were to have been pronounc'd upon himself; at last Su∣rena's wounds being perfectly view'd, the Chirugeons found they were exceedingly inflam d, and so many symptomes of their being inwardly gangin••d, that they all with Tears in their Eyes, acquaited Arsaces, that it lay not in the power of any thing but a Miracle, to recover him; at this fatal declaration, the King (fetching a deep sigh) fell speechless on the ground, and Surena perceiving so high demonstrations of his favour, made such excellent and passionate retributions for them, and so admirably exclaim'd against Fate, not for ending his life, but for not per∣mitting him to end it in so generous a Princes service, that all which heard him, found his impiety, rather a justice, than a crime, Arsaces being by many remedies recovered from his fainting, was (before he had the strength to speak) carried out of his Favourites Chamber, who no soon∣er perceiv'd it empty of all but his Domesticks, sent one of them for the Princess Zephalinda, who being come, was conjur'd by him, to obtain from Parthenissa for him, the honor of a visit, to whom he protested he had some secrets of Importance to communicate, which should he dye before they were reveal'd, would leave too great a horror on his Conscience. The fair Zephalinda immediately obey'd his injunction, and came to wait on Pa••thenissa, when she and I, were admiring at the occasion of your si∣lence. The sadness which so visibly appear'd in Zephalinda's Face, was at first attributed by us both entirely to that unimitable Friendship, that ge∣nerous Princess paid you, but we soon found, that Nature had a large share in it. When she had inform'd Parthenissa with the occasion of her visit, your fair Mistriss was extreamly starl'd at it, whether it proceeded from a Prophecy of what she afterwards learn'd, out of sympathy with Ze∣phalinda, or from that sad banishment, which would inevitably follow by your Rivals Death; but to contract your suspension, I will not inform you of all those pressing motives, his generous Sister us'd to obtain her desires, since 'tis enough you know they were successful. But Parthenissa was no sooner retir'd into her Chamber; to make her self ready for the intended visit; than one of her Servants came to inform me, that a countrey-man which had sought me at my own house, and mist of me there, (being ac∣quainted where I was) was come to speak with me, having a Packet, which he said was of some consequence. zephalinda, (though she knew 'twas you which had reduced her Brother to that extremity, never lessen'd her friendship, but was so generous, as to profess she was confident 'twas ••urena, not you that was the cause of her misfortune) and was so earnest with me to satisfy her opinion, which was, that those letters were from you, that to obey her, I was uncivil, and left her alone to go and receive them; The superscription I scarcely lookt upon, when I knew it to be your hand, and transported with joy, I ran up to Zephalinda, and with her into Par∣thenissa's Chamber, where I assur'd them, that not only I should now know your condition, but the cause of your Duel; but alas, assoon as I open'd my Pacquet, I found a Letter for the King, and another for Zephalinda, but none for her which did most desire, and most merit one; I confess, my

disorder at it was not far short of hers, but she attributing your silence to any subject rather than the true one, and believing my Letter might discover the cause, conjur'd me to peruse it; But oh gods! what astonish∣ment was mine, when I found what it contain'd? it made me a long time continue silent, and trembling, and Zephalinda had no sooner ended hers, but it ingender'd the same effect; Parthenissa, who could not fancy (since you were living, as appear'd by your Letters) what strange accident could produce such an operation, broke her own silence, to learn the occasion of ours. Alas, Madam, (I reply'd) you will be more happy in theigno∣rance, than the knowledge of it. If (said she) I knew not Artabanes to be living, your words would make me suspect he were dead, No, no, Madam, Zephalinda answer'd, the certainty he is alive, is not greater, than having committed his Crime, he is unworthy to continue so. Is it possible (said Parthenissa) that he can commit a crime, which may render him worthy of death in your judgement? Yes Madam, (she reply'd) and when you have read this Letter (presenting him to Parthenissa) I believe you will be of my judgement; whilst he was the destroyer of Surena, I excus'd the action upon the belief I had, that he was invited to it by justice, but now I have discover'd he can suspect your Constancy, and convert a passion of Love, unjustly into one of hatred, he shall find I can from his Friend, become his Judge, and when his actions are ill, not fear to term them so. Whilst Zephalinda was thus speaking, the unfortunate Par••henissa read her Letter, and no sooner found what was in it, than fetch∣ing a languishing sigh from the botton of her heart, she only said; alas, Arta••••nes! how ill do you reward the purest Flame? and then fell down at our Feet, without giving any signs of Life, Zephalinda, who thought the sight of her Letter, would have rather inspir'd her with resentment, than grief, a thousand times condemn'd her own rashness, and by an abun∣dant weeping, discover'd her repentance for it; but at last, what with her help and mine, we brought Parthenissa to her self again; but indeed she employ'd that life we restor'd her to, to torment her self so excessively, that we found our charity was a disobligation. Yes Artabanes, had you but seen how she deplor'd your inconstancy, and how transeendent her passi∣on was, even when she thought you unworthy of it, I am confident the knowldege how yor were lov'd, would have sufficiently punish'd your belief, that you were not. Surena in the mean while, finding his forces very much diminish'd, and apprehending he should not have life enough left, to disclose that which would make his death a less misfortune, sent a servant of his to know the cause of Zephalinda's stay, who finding Parthenissa so well recover'd, as not to need her help, went to give her brother an account of her employment; but he hardly was inform'd of what had happen'd when he conjur'd his Sister with fresh impatiencies, to beg Parthenissa to afford him the blessing of seeing her before he dy'd, for he had some∣thing to reveal, which might set a period to her grief, and which he pro∣tested was of so high a concernment, that she should never repent the vi∣sit. With this message, Zephalinda return'd, and though Parthenissa was in extream disorder, yet we both so effectually employ'd our Prayers, that we obtain'd what they desir'd, and were no sooner come into Surena's Chamber, than he begg'd all but your fair Mistriss, to go out of it, which being perform'd, he told her; (Madam) I know the incivility of putting you to this trouble, and of leaving you alone in this room, is so great, that nothing but my weakness could render it excusable; I know too, that as some expressions of my joy for this transcendent Honor, I should cast my

self at your Feet; but Madam, what is my Apology for the former, must be also for the latter. I should too (I must confess) be offended at these wounds, which necessitates me to this rudeness; but Madam, so much is the respect I pay you, that I cannot be troubl'd at my own torment, when I consider it as a punishment of having betray'd you; at those words the fair Parthenissa fell fresh a weeping, which Surena perceiving, he cry'd out, Oh gods! would I were so blest, as to be the object, and not the occasion of those Tears; but alas (he continu'd) 'tis in vain to expect a felicity, which the gods, as well as a perfection as great as theirs, thinks me un∣worthy of. Know then, Madam, that I have been wicked, in expectation to be happyy, but having lost the hopes of the latter, I will no longer practice the former; Yes (fair Parthenissa) those Eyes which are unresist∣able, had that influence over me, which they have over all they look up∣on, or they which look on them, and inspir'd me with a flame, whose violence forc'd me to embrace any remedy, that might moderate it; and finding that my continual sights, did rather cool than enflame your Breast, I could not fancy but some other possest what I sought: To resolve this suspition, I courted Zianthes Favour with such humbleness and assiduity that at last I obtain'd it, and from her learnt, that Artabanes was the hap∣py Man which blasted all my joyes, and possest what I but ambition'd; I must confess, when I reflected on that seeming passion he had for Zepha∣linda, I wonder'd for a while at that Truth, but upon that publique breach betwixt them, I began to believe the Mistery, and soon after to ap∣prehend by Moneses's resentment, to see it too visibly; This made me ha∣sten Arsaces declaration in my favour, in expectation that Artabanes would not oppose his King, but I quickly found by Zianthes intelligence, that all the operation it produc'd, was only a necessitating you to manage your Amours with greater privacy, and a bringing of an accession to your aversion for me. This discovery had so powerful a production, that in its effects, I had like to have found the cure of all my troubles, and an exemption from needing that forgiveness, which I acknowledge I cannot be more ambitious, than I am unworthy of; would to the gods, fair Par∣thenissa, I had been so happy, for then I had dy'd with this satisfaction, that I had only merited your pity, and not your hatred; but the higher Pow∣ers which form our Fates, and permit us not to make them, ordain'd the contrary, and Arsaces, who was too much concern'd in my Life, not to contribute every thing which might preserve it, so necessarily conjur'd me to discover the cause of my languishings, that at last I obey'd him, and gave him a true account of all which Zianthe had inform'd me. At first, that generous King, would publiquely have taken notice to Artabanes, of his daring to contradict, what he had so openly manifested was his in∣tention, and then by some rigorous penalty, have commanded him never more to see you again; but I absolutely oppos'd this proceeding, by re∣presenting to the King, that it would infallibly ruine Zianthe, who being the only confident of your Loves, must be immediately known to be the discoverer of them; that by losing my intelligencer, I should lose my hopes; and that his violence to Artabanes, might perhaps hinder the progress of his passion, but nothing advantage mine. I will not trouble you will all those reasons I us'd to make Arsaces deeline that overture, since at last he did it, and immediately caus'd me to send privately for Zianthe, where gi∣ving her large Presents, and larger Hopes, and by telling her how infinitely he was concern'd in my recovery, so entirely gain'd her, that she promis'd him, not only to leave no means unessay'd, which might cast a jealousie

betwixt you, and your Artabanes, but also toact any thing I propounded, which might conduce to that end. This assurance, which till then by all my Arts I could never draw from her, gave me my health, by restoring my hopes, for I could not despair of vanquishing all difficulties, when I had so powerful an Assistant; But, mada, for a long time we could not fix up∣on any design proportionate to our desires, till the Tabienian revolt, which necessitated Arsaces to raise a vast Army, to repair that affront they had done his Lieutenants, and to reduce them to their obedience. This I elect∣ed as the fittest opportunity to act, what I intended, and besought the King before that Army was form'd, not to declare who should be the Gene∣ral, but afterwards to make Artabanes, and the same night he gave him his Commission, to enjoyn him by inviolable commands, next morning to go to his charge; This was perform'd as I desir'd, and the same evening, in which Arsaces gave Artabanes his Orders, I made Zephalinda (who I durst not inform of my resolutions, for I found her more inclin'd to your Inte∣ress, than mine) to invite you to a Ball, where, whilst you were divert∣ing your self, I writ a Letter to you, as if that Command Arsaces had given Artabanes, was by your advice to me, that we might, during his absence enjoy a satisfaction which his vigilancy, and presence deny'd us, and fill'd the rest of the Letter with some expressions, which might make conjecture you had long honor'd me with a private Passion. This Letter I sent Zian∣the, and conjur'd her to let it so fall into Artabanes hands, as if it had been by accident, for I knew he would wait your return at your own Lodings, to kiss your hands before his departure▪ All this was so admi••ably acted by Zianthe, that it produc'd the wish'd effect; (as that very night she ad∣vertis'd me) and the more to confirm him in his error, I caus'd a small Christal Looking-Glass to be made, by one of the rarest Artists in Asia, and by a false screw I artificially put my Picture betwixt the Cafe and the Glass, and some time before, sent a Merchant to sell it you, which he did, the cu∣riosity of the work inviting you (as I ws confident) to buy it, this glass you so justly priz'd, that for the most part you carry'd it about you, and valu'd it, so much above any thing of that nature, that Artabanes took notice of it. Zianthe therefore, after she had reveal'd unto him, what by the reading of my Letter, she seem'd she could not well any longer con∣ceal, the better to confirm that fallacy, shew'd Artabanes the Looking∣Glass, which we well observ'd you had often worn, and then by opening the private screw, discover'd that to him, which you never knew of your self, and so excellently insinuated, that the este••m you plac'd upon it, proceeded more from that which was conceal'd in it, than from that which was visible, that being fill'd with a rage, which render'd him uncapable of all things but revenge, he went away, and going down the Stairs, met with a Servant of mine in the dark, whom I had expressly sent thither, who seeming to take him for one of yours, desir'd him to tell Zianthe, that you lay that night at my Lodgings with Zephalinda, and that he was sent purposely to wait upon her thither. You know, Madam (conti∣nu'd Surena) that all that night you honor'd my Sister with your company, for when you were returning late, I caus'd one of the wheels of your Cha∣riot, to be so dexterously broken, that upon the first motion, it fell all to pieces, so that you were necessitated to remain at my house, which the deluded Artabanes attributed to a co••trary cause, and though, that to put the greater Complement upon me, you evaded, allowing him the honor of taking leave; for his being made General, and his resolution of going next morning to his charge, was so suddainly divulg'd, that I am confident all

Nineve, except those of my house knew it in an hour; but there, I had ta∣ken such strict order, that none should speak of it, that it came not to your knowledge, Artabanes therefore without so much as answering my Servant, retir'd to his own house, where, had I seen the defects my delusion produc'd, I had (it may be) repented it. But Madam, his Griefs had an∣other operation than I expected, for I believ'd the being so egregiously a∣bus'd, would have made him decline any resolutions, but those of hating you, and have induced him to vent his despair, upon the revolted Tabie∣nians, in which time, by the assistance of your resentments for his so aban∣doning you, and my humility and constant passion, I was not out of hopes to gain what he had lost; but it seems he abandon'd himself so entirely to revenge, that as he had lost the hopes of possessing you, so he resolvd to endeavour I should wear his Livery; in pursuance whereof he sent me a challenge, which I could not decline, for he that has the courage to adore you, cannot want it to dispute you; which I did, but the gods, (who will not suffer infidelity to prosper in Love it self, where 'tis least unlawful) gave him an advantage over me, which perhaps upon a juster subject he could not so easily have gain'd: Whilst Sillaces (said Symander) was ma∣king this relation, my poor Master was in so many several disorders, that in my life I never saw a subject fitter for pitty; but no sooner had his gene∣rous friend disclos'd this fatal treachery, than he cry'd out, O gods, Silla∣ces; what is it you tell me? I tell (he reply'd) that, which, if your un∣just suspition had not been too predominant, Pa••thenissa would have in∣form'd you of, and thereby exempted her self, you, and all your friends, from that misery, your precipitate and voluntary banishment has cast us into; but be not so cruel to your self, as to interrupt me in that which makes your wound, and not permit me to apply the cure: Alas (said Ar∣tabanes) 'tis not in your power, for though Parthenissa should by an ex∣cess of goodness, pardon my crime, yet that it self would but increase it, by demonstrating, I have offended the greatest Mercy, as well as the greatest Beauty. You are (said Sillaces) very ingenuous to persecute your self, and your wilfulness is admirable; you will run into a storm, and then refuse the Harbor. No, generous friend (Artabanes answer'd) that which you call a wilfulness, is a justice, since for a Criminal to em∣brace Life, when his Conscience will be more severe than his Judge can be, is to become as much an ememy to himself, as to Justice. If (said Si∣laces) you will not permit me to finish my relation, for the interest you have in it, yet at least let me obtain that favour, as a reward of those suf∣ferings I have undergone, to bring you news, which I thought would not have been altogether unacceptable. I beg a thousand times your pardon (said my Prince) if the effects of my despair have been so uncivil, but as a pennace for it, I will no more interrupt your Relation, but listen to it with as much silence, as my miseries will permit. Surena (said Sillaces) had no sooner ended this discourse, than perceiving how strange an influ∣ence it had over Parthenissa, he thus continu'd: Alas (Madam) all the hopes I had in my misfortunes, I apprehend are groundless, for I expected by disclosing my fault, to obtain a pardon for it; but I find by your dis∣order, that you are more inclin'd to Justice, than Mercy. I confess (said Parthenissa) you have by your relation, made your self very unworthy the latter, for by your own acknowledgement, you are no longer wicked, but because you can live no longer, and 'tis not your repentance, but your death, which makes this discovery. 'Tis true, Madam (Surena answer'd) and thereby learn the power of your Beauty, which violently forces me

to actions against my Inclinations, and against Justice. But Madam, I have greater hopes of your forgiveness, by submitting, than disputing, and the more to induce you to it, consider, that if I am the only actor in this fault, 'tis because I only had the means to act it; that none would have declin'd my crime, if he had had my hopes; that it lay in my power to con∣tinue, as well as to create your troubles, (for I understand Artabanes is too perfectly deluded, ever to return of himself, and discover the contrary) consider too, Madam, that I have given you an ill opinion of me, to re∣store you to a good one of my Rival, that you will render my death as full of torment, withour uour pardon, as of quietness with it, and excuse my fault upon the score, that the purest flame was the creator of it, and that as it was my first, so 'tis impossible but it must be my last. All the while Surena, was thus speaking, his sighs accompany'd his words, and had so effi∣cacious power over the generous Parthenissa, that she told him; Yes Su∣rena, you have my forgiveness, and I beseech the gods, that it may render your death as full of satisfaction, as that crime which made you need it, will (I fear) ••ill my life with misery. At the end of these words she went out of his Chamber, and coming where Zephalinda and I were, she told her (passing by) Ah Madam, your Brother has forever ruin'd me. That virtuous Princess was as much surpriz'd at this Declaration, as Parthenis∣sa had been, when she learnt the cause of it: But Zephalinda perceiving your fair Mistriss was too much possest with grief, to desire an explanation of what she had said, contented her self to suspend her curiosity till a fitter season, and having waited on her to her Chariot, return'd to Surena, who she knew, by the emotions of such a visit, would remain in too sad a disorder to abandon him; but assoon as Parthenissa was got home, she learnt, Zianthe had absented her self, which so confirm'd Surena's relation, that Parthenissa immediately fell into a violent Feaver, and the distempers of her mind, so well conspir'd with the malignity of the disease, that for seven days together, all the Physitians were in despair of her recovery, but in the middle of her highest ravings, she would often excuse, and con∣demn you, and in such passionate terms, that in her frenzy, I almost learnt the subject of it; but at last, the gods who shew'd us our fears, to indear our joys, heard our Tears, and by a happy Crisis asswag'd, and at last took away her pain and danger; I say our Tears, for Lyndadory, Zephalin∣da, and I, had hardly any other employment during her sickness, and that generous Princess was so much more concern'd in Parthenissa, than in her Brother, that as often as possibly she could, she left Surena, to wait on her Rival. Whilst we were thus paying our duty, and care, to your sad Mistriss, Arsaces was not less vigilant, and concern'd about his Favourite, who, it seems, (was by those powers, which were concern'd in your Loves) reduced, into a danger of Death, only to extort a discovery from him, which nothing else could have had the power to do; for no sooner was his Treachery disclos'd, than an Arabian Physitian (who certainly has far∣ther pier••' into the secrets of Nature, than any which ever have been of his profession) understanding Orodes grief, and the subject of it, came boldly to him, as he was returning from the Temple, where he had been sacrificing for Surena's health, and told him, that he would undertake to end his fears, by recovering his Favourite, if for his cure, the King would build a Colledge for Physitians, and endowe it with a competent Revenue for their maintenance; Arsaces, who easily saw, that to grant the Ara••ian his desire, was but to oblige his people in obliging himself, greedily yield∣ed to his request, and promis'd him rewards, which though they were im∣mense

yet were but short of his merit; for by an admirable Art, onely dipping some Linnen in Surena's bloud, and by covering it with a Pow∣der, which he turn'd the Sympathetick, in eight days to our wonder, and Orodes joy, brought your rival out of all fear of death; but the Par∣thian Physitian, who envy'd what they could not imitate, gave out, that his cure was not the effects of Knowledge, but of Magick: but the skilful Arabian, to make their malice, as apparent as their Ignorance, promis'd to publish a Treatise, which should evince, that for his receipt he was on∣ly beholding to Art. His Enemies therefore, who imagin'd, that he which could perform a cure, could tell the means how it was wrought, one night privately murther'd him in his Bed, and so that excellent remedy is, (I fear) for ever lost, and only appear'd, to make us think it a misfortune. But assoon as Parthenissa was in any condition fit to be spoken to, Linda∣dory, Zephalinda, and I begg'd her with such incessant importunities, to discover to us what Surena had to her, that at length she granted our request. Alas! what disorders were we in at that relation? they were in∣deed so great, that for a time Parthenissa attributed what was meerly our astonishment, to a tacite condemning of you, but Zephalinda's resentments against Surena, gave her soonest the power, not only to condemn her bro∣ther, but to draw Parthenissa out of that error, our silence had lead her into, by telling her; But Madam, since the gods so mercifully have disco∣ver'd your and Artabanes's delusion, why do you so long let him continue in torments, whose greatness you may know by your own sufferings, and which are too high a punishment where his crime as much his design, as 'tis his misfortune. Madam (said Parthenissa) (who condemn'd you, but to learn more Arguments for your pardon) it seems then by your discourse, that Artabanes is not faulty, which I must inform you, is a far different opinion from mine; for was it a sufficient inducement to think me unconstant, because his Rival said I was so? if he thought me guilty, why did he not accuse me? and if not, why did he condemn me? is an accusation then a sufficient convincement? No, no, (Madam) when I consider the slight foundations his suspitions have, I must believe he has resign'd his liberty to some new Conqueror, and that which he ascribes to my inconstancy, is but an effect of his own. Ah (reply'd Zephalinda interrupting her) how unjust are you now to Artabanes, as well as to your self, had he any such criminal design, he would not have expos'd his life to Surena's Sword; that was too dangerous a counterfeiting? No Madam, he was deluded so artificially, that he merits rather your pity than your resentments; for 'twas not only Surena, said you were incon∣stant, but Zianthe (your Confident too) whose flight has confirm'd her guilt; besides your wearing my Brothers Picture, and transcendantly che∣rishing the Glass which contain'd it, above all things of that quality, your absenting your self from his Company, when it might have been the last time of your enjoying it, and when all Ninive knew of his departure, your making his Rivals house your lodging, and his next days accepting a challenge to justify your election (as he alleadg'd) were such strong temp∣tations, that I should rather have admir'd if they had not succeeded, than that they did; whilst I thought him faulty, I was the frist to condemn him, but now I find him only unhappy, I am become his Intercessor, and if I prove not a successful one, I will publish to all the world, that 'twas not the gods cruelty, but Parthenissa's ruin'd Artabanes. Madam (said Parthenissa) your friendship makes your partial, and you could not but ••ondemn what you excuse, did you reflect upon it with an unprejudicate

opinion, for he that could think me uncapable of Constancy, I must make him so of my affection, and since his believing me guilty of change is his fault, I am resolv'd it shall be his punishment. If (reply'd the perfect Ze∣phalinda) you are determin'd to be rigorous, let him rather know his error, than conceal it; for whilst he thinks you faulty, he may find his cure in that belief, but to learn the contrary, will prove a torment almost great enough (if 'twere plac'd on Surena) to punish his Treachery. Madam (said Lindadory, who all this while was drown'd in Tears, by an efflecti∣on on your sad condition) will you make my Brother miserable, because others have made him unfortunate? will you make him bear the punish∣ment of Surena's fault? and will you not grant him your forgiveness, be∣cause his rival has reduc'd him to a condition to need, and deserve it? Would to the gods (Parthenissa answer'd) I could find as much reason, as I have inclination to pardon him; but Madam, the cause of his fault, is of so misterious a quality to me, that perhaps in forgiving this crime, I may discover him guilty of a greater, and what I inte••d as a Charity, may prove an offence. Madam (said I) you ought then the sooner to clear your doubts; neither will we become his Sollicitors, if he obey not your first summons, and if at your Feet he do not acknowledge the infelicity of your credulity, and the continuation of his passion: consider, fair Par∣thenissa, I conjure you, that a longer delay may so confirm him in his er∣ror, that his despair may render your mercy fruitless, by driving him into some fatal resolutions against his Life, or at least, make him elect an eter∣nal exile, and I beseech the gods, that already he has not chosen one of those misfortunes, But why (continu'd Sillaces) do I make the way to your Felicity so long, that I render it a new misfortune, let it suffice, that at last Parthenissa seem'd to give that to our Reasons, which proceeded from her Inclination; Yes Artabanes, that generous Princess pardon'd your unfor∣tunate Crime, assur'dus, that she would divide the joy of your return, and that her Heart should be as open to receive you, as ever. With this fa∣vourable declaration, I dispatcht several Expresses, to seek you, and to in∣form you of it; and in the mean time employ'd all my friends, and my own power with Arsaces, to recall his Vows; but alas, our incessant Pray∣ers were so far from altering, that they confirm'd his cruelty; and though I know not from what misterious cause his aversion for you proceeded, yet I remember, for his final snwer he told us; The Parthians shall be convinc'd, how sacred an observer I am of my Laws, by making them as penal to the first Prince of my Bloud, as to the meanest of my Subjects; that though Surena be recover'd, it was no lessening of Artabanes's offence; that I owe the preservation of my Favourite, not to his respect, but to the goodness of the gods, to whom I shall make an unworthy re∣tribution, if my first action was a violation of my Oaths; And concluded, that whosoever mention'd your return again, he would consider it as an affront to his Authority, and resent it at that rate. With this barbarous answer I went to the thee Princesses, where I found two of my Expres∣ses return'd, who assur'd us that they had been at Babilon, Selutia, Heca∣tomphile, Arbelles, and all the other chief Cities of Orodes Empire, and made such diligent search for you, that they durst engage their Lives, had you been in any of them, their pains had not been fruitless; the others also at their coming back, made us the like assurances, so that all their te∣stimonies concurring, it fill'd Lindadory, Parthenissa, and Zephalinda, with such excessive sorrows, that perceiving nothing but your return, could put a period to them, I undertook to give them an account of you, or

never again to give them any of my self. This motion extreamly surpriz'd them, who perhaps thought, that an improbable way of finding one friend would turn to a certain one of losing another; but I so represented, tha' my friendship to you, and my eagerness of silencing all their Tears, would inspire me with a higher diligence than any other, that I obtain'd my re∣quest; and indeed I found Captivity a lesser trouble, than the seeing eve∣ry day so deep a melancholly as that which possest your Sister, your Mistriss, and your Friend. Immediately therefore I fitted my self for my journey, and though the King did me the honor to send me a Commission for that Army, which was desing'd for you, yet I wholly declin'd it, and rather elected to become a wanderer, to restore you to your felicity, than to tread the way which leads to glory, when not in order to it; within two days I had fitted my self, and having taken a pretence (to obtain the Kings permission) for a private affair, which would necessitate my absence for some time, I took, leave of those, for whose sakes and yours, I under∣took so uncertain a voyage; I will not tell you how I rais'd their Faiths by naming greater probabilities of success, than I fancied; nor all the pas∣sionate expressions at our separation, but I must tell you, that in hope I might be so fortunate as to succeed in my inquiry, I procur'd a Letter from Parthenissa to you, which having secretly made up in a Ribbon, that night I lest Ninive, and bethinking myself, that from that Peasant, which you sent with your Pacquet to me, I might get some light of the way you took, I went directly to that Village, where I found my hopes deceiv'd but riding a days journey further, by incessant inquiries after you, I learnt that not very long before, a Gentleman, attended only by one Servant, had hir'd a Guide to pass over those Sandy Desarts, which are between that place and Antioch, and by the description they made of the person, and his sadness, I imagin'd it was you; I therefore instantly hir'd the same Guide, who brought me to the same Inn you lay at in Antioch, where the Master of it assur'd me, that Gentleman embarqued himself in a small Ves∣sel that was bound for Cyprus; this gave me a belief, that since an infeli∣city in Love was the cause of your banishment, you intended to confine your self in that Island, where the Queen of that Passion had chosen her earthly residence. With this hopeful fancy, I hir'd a Ship, and in two days landed at Paphos, and from thence exactly visited every corner of that Kingdom, yet all the advantage I deriv'd from a hundred days spent in so curious a search, was, to remain confident you were not in it; but be∣cause I was inform'd, that several discontented persons, retir'd themselves into certain small Islands of the Archipelago, I resolv'd to try whether you did not increase their number, but we had not been under Sail above twelve hours, when a Cilician Pyrate gave us chace, and though with my Sword I disputed my liberty, yet at last being opprest by number, I lost both, and receiv'd so many wounds, that had not our Enemies Captain, by a good opinion conceiv'd of my Courage, been exceeding careful of my cure, I had mist the happiness of restoring you to yours; about half a year I continu'd with this Cilician, where I had nothing of a Slave, but the name, and whose affection I gaind so entirely, that he often protested 'twas that only which hinder'd my liberty; but out of apprehension that I might not have the same inclinations for him, which he had for me, he would every day endeavour to wean himself from my company; and as soon as he could digest our separtion, he would then give me my liber∣ty, to obtain a pardon for having so long delay'd it; his former Chari∣ty, and those fresh demonstrations of his friendship, were so justly predo∣minant

over me, that when the valiant Gallippus, and Menas, with three Galleys more, fell upon ours; I joyn'd my self to the generous Cilician, and though after a virtuous resistance he lost his life, yet in that action I sav'd it three times, and loaden with wounds, fell by his side; Gallipus and Menas having enquir'd, after their victory, who I was, were inform'd by some which surviv'd our defeat, that I was a Slave, and only in gratitude to him, whose courage took, and whose charity preserv'd me, I perform'd what they saw. I know not whether my resolution or gratitude, gave them an opinion, that it was not unlikely, the same usage might produce the same resentments, but whatsoever was the cause, Gallippus took up my Body, carried it into his Cabbin, and there so prest the Chirurgeons to shew their Art, that as proof of it, by powerful Cordials, they brought me to my self again, and having found my faintness, proceeded rather from the loss of Bloud, than any mortal wound, they then gave Gallippus an assurance of recovering me, and afterwards perform'd it. I cannot but tell you, that had not higher reflections than any which related to my self, silenc'd my despair, I had made my own Sword testify, that I pre∣ferr'd Death before Slavery; but the consideration of my engagements to your fair Sister, Parthenissa, and Zephalinda, and the eternal torment, the not knowing your error, would be to you, made me look as a providence upon my double Captivity, and as it were my double Refurrection; be∣sides, I could not fancy the gods, who are the relievers of Innoency, did so miraculously preserve me, but to render me at last their instrument in it; and since the Sea was the place where I lost any further intelligence of you, the being with Pirats, who examine all Ships they see, gave me no small hopes, that those accidents, which in appearance were misfor∣tunes, might prove the best way of putting a period to yours and mine; to conclude, the gods made not my conjectures false, for 'tis by my Cap∣tivity, that they have brought my troubles to an end; but before I have done so to my discourse, I must let you know, that in some sights, I did Gal∣lippus such memorable services (for 'twas with him I always went) that he endeavour'd to obtain my freedom from Menas, which the barbarous Pirat always declin'd; but the valiant Gallippus, to make my hopes ease my sufferings, protested that the next service I render'd him, which might make his Admiral, not justly to condemn his setting me free, he would ra∣ther hazard to lose the expectation of his future preserment, than not do it; 'twas a long while before I could on so favourable an opportunity, which at last was given me this day in your sight; but my being a Slave, having been the means of inceasing your Glory, I shall no more deplore it, than I do my other miseries, since they are so fortunately finish'd and since by them I have given some proofs of a friendship, whose greatness cannot be resembling to any thing so aptly, as to his perfections to whom it is paid.

'Twas thus the generous Sillaces ended his relation, and 'twas in passionate embracings, and not in words that Spartacus was eloquent in his gratitude; but his friends perceiving that his silence exprest his impatience for Parthe∣nissa's Letter, immediately by unsowing a little Ribbon, which in all his misfortunes he had artificiallay preserv'd, presented my dear Master with those fair Characters, which, having kist a thousand times, he found that they contain'd these words.

PARTHENISSA to the Prince ARTABANES.

IF I consulted with Iustice, and not with Friendship, this which is to re∣call you from your banishment, should be a confirmation of it, and perhaps your crime (if my affection were not your advocate) might deserve that punish∣ment; for in esteeming me inconstant, you have as much wrong'd my judge∣ment, as my Virtue; but since your fault affords you an evincement, that my affection by my yet continuing it, is uncapable of alteration, I pardon an error, which on that score I can hardly condemn, and all the reparation I desire, is, that you will never think me so near being guilty, as to have been thought so by you; that you will make a grief cease, which nothing but your presence has the power to do; and that you will be confident, 'tis as impossible for me to alter my Passion, as to improve my first election by a second choice.

O gods! (Spartacus cry'd out when he had ended reading) why did you give me the courage to love Parthenissa, the happiness to obtain hers, and not virtue enough to know she was uncapable of vice; Then abstain∣ing a while from words, he made those sighs which interrupted them, per∣form their Office; but having at length allay'd that storm, he thus conti∣nu'd; Great gods! what crime have I committed, that you make a decla∣ration of Parthenissa's Passion for me, my punishment? and yet you are therein but just, for since the suspecting of it was my sin, it is fit it should be too, my torment. My Relation would be endless, did I tell you all those rational extravagancies he utter'd, I will therefore pass them over, with all those Menaces he made against Surena's Life, and only inform you, that never any man's condemnation brought him a more real grief, than did Artabanes pardon to him, and that his despair for having injur'd the perfect'st excellency, flung him into a violent Feaver, which was not on∣ly like to have cost him his life, but was really the cause of those disasters, which afterwards did happen. For Canitius (who my Prince had honour'd with the office of his Lieutenant-General) at the taking of Salapia, saw the fair Izadora, and had for her so violent a Passion, that it gave him the impudence to beg her of my generous Master, as a reward of his Ser∣vices; but Spartacus not only refus'd it, but gave his so just a reprehen∣sion for it, that instead of producing repentance, it inspir'd him with re∣venge; to effect which (as we afterwards learnt) he held a private cor∣respondency with Gellius and Lentulus, at that famous Battel, in which they were defeated, and 'twas by his Treachery, and the quitting of his Post, that all those valiant Germans were then cut off; and for which, he attributing of it to their rashness, and my Prince not to his infidelity, he had his pardon; which generosity was so far from producing his conver∣sion, that it gave him encouragement to abuse a Virtue, which, if he had had any himself, he should rather have admir'd. This Traytor therefore ta∣king the advantage of his Generals sickness, which gave him an unrestrain∣ed liberty to accomplish his infidelity, began by his Agents, to let the Army know that Spartacus, who built his Glory upon their Bloud, car'd not how profuse he was of so precious a treasure, whilst that by it he could purchase his desires; that they had no reason any longer to follow a Captain, who declin'd so much as acquainting them with his Name, and Countrey; that to the best of his observation, they must not expect a pe∣riod

of their troubles but by a period of their lives, for having led them cross all Italy, with an engagement of disbanding them, when they had reach'd the Alps,, yet, when all their dangers were past (but that of not observing his promise) upon the bare noise of Crassus Army, he leads them from their security, to make them undertake a hazardous War; that when by the only blessing of the gods, by the defeat of Mummius, they had created such fears in Crassus, that they might with as much safety, as ho∣nor, have retir'd themselves to enjoy their Valours recompence, he declines Gallippus overture, of sending them a Fleet, which would have convey'd them into a Countrey, where at once they might receive their security, and their rewards, and for the hopes of a little Glory, which their Swords and Lives too must purchase for him, he is resolv'd, not only to expose them to all the Force of Italy, but to attend Pompeys triumphant A••my, who are so accustom'd to Victory, that they desire no greater certainty of it, than to come to a Battel; in which, the best name our Victory can bear, will be that of a happy rashness; neither can they have any hopes of his favour, had they no other experiment of the contrary, than that of Sa∣lapia, where lest Perolla should be too weak to shed their Bloud, he sends him those prisoners to destroy their Valours, which had been made so, by their valours; and that late one of Gallippus's Slave, who, though he gave no other proof of his Courage, than the defence of himself, and the killing of some of them, yet immediately, as if the shedding their companions Bloud, had been the best Title to a recompence, his liberty is purchas'd, and by trea∣sures far greater than any which has been, their reward for two years misery and success; and not content with this injury, but because they vented their just resentments upon a violater of his Faith, from their General he becomes their executioner, and lest they might judge that violence proceeded from the heat of Bloud, he causes afterwards five of them to be publickly hang'd, and offers their Enemy to become their Judge, who finding Spartacus to be more cruel, than he himself could be (though a Pirat) declin'd the motion up∣on that score only. It was with many such instruments that the traitor Caniti∣us, & his Instruments, endeavour'd my Prince's ruine, and though he were the only Author of this wickedness, yet he appear'd the chief detester of it; nei∣ther was he content to be false within our Camp, but carry'd his perfidious∣ness to that of the Romans, and by a private contract with Crassus (which my Prince's indisposition permitted him to manage with security) not only be∣came his Friend, but his Intelligencer; and advis'd him, during his Generals sickness to advance, and by a strong Trench to shut up the neck of that Pe∣ninsule we then quarter'd in, where if Spartacus ended his life, by his pre∣sent disease, the command of the Army by succession, being his, he would betray it into his hands; or if he recover'd, he would raise so dangerous a mutiny in the Army (for the which, their being thus besieg'd, would give a sufficient rise) that in so great a disorder he might make his advantage. He fur∣ther protested, he would then have perform'd that, for which he was future∣ly engag'd, but that as yet those seeds of disorder, had not taken root deep enough to produce the fruit he expected, but yet as an earnest of the reality of his professions, he would not oppose Crassus's making that Trench which was to besiege us; who upon this persidiousness rais'd his hopes, and his camp, which he remov'd to the neck of our Peninsule, where contrary to the ad∣vice, and above the hope of all his Officers, he in a short while cast up a trench from Sea to Sea, of three hunder'd Furlongs in length, fifteen Foot broad, as many high, and on the top of it rais'd a Wall of an admirable strength, whilst this was performing, our Army often repin'd at Canitius not opposing it, who to make his sitting still, appear rather his respect, than his treachery, protest∣ed

he would adventure nothing, till Spartacus was recover'd, left fighting under his fortune, the success might be attributed to his own courage; be∣sides, he often laught at so endless a toil (as he tearm'd Crassus Trench) and said 'twas a work sitter for Labourers, than Soldiers; but yet if the Romans effected it, they would but become the makers of their own graves, for they must be so over-haras'd, that it would be impossible for them to use a Pile or a Sword: I must confess, I was of his opinion, and had I not been so, I esteem'd it less hazardous to be besieg'd by Crassus, than to fight a Battel un∣der Canitius. Neither was it singly Canitius's treachery, which gave the Ro∣man General this confidence, but Pompey's unexpected return had a share in it, for though Crassus had conjur'd the Senate to send for him out of Asia, yet he had done it to palliate any disgrace which might have befallen him, to manifest the greatness of the danger, and the better to set off the glory of a victory, than out of a belief that Pompey could so soon, and so success∣fully disingage himself from the Mithridatick -War; but when to his grief, and admiration he receiv'd advice from Rome, that not only Pompey was at Dyrrachium, and expected but a fair wind to transport him into Italy, but that all the Senate consider'd him as the Man destin'd for that work, and had made him General of that War, taking the very rise from Crassus his own Letters, spight, and ambition made him undertake what his judgement, nor his courage, could have invited him to. In the mean while, my generous Prince lay strugling with greater difficulties than all the Roman Empire could have rais'd him, I mean his despair for having suspected the perfect innocency; which cruel thoughts, made him look with some sort of joy, upon that sickness we consider'd with horror; but in the end, the gods (who had not yet wearied themselves in persecuting him) abated, and afterwards took away the danger of his Feaver; but then his Melancholly augmented, as his disease decreas'd, and had so powerful an influence over him, that it appear'd as dangerous an enemy, as that which was so lately supprest; to be brief, Sillaces took so opportunely his good intervals, and so effectu∣ally employ'd them, that Spartacus began to listen unto reason, and one evening, finding him much inclin'd to relish his perswasions, he told him; Are you then, Artabanes resolv'd eternally to render fruitless that miracu∣lous discovery the gods have made in your favour? will you by your wil∣fulness, necessitate Parthenissa to believe, that what was your misfortune, was your design? will you render what you would make the testimony of your Repentance, a greater offence than your fault? and will you make your Love more obliging than your Hatred? for whilst you thought your Presence was Parthenissa's trouble, you banish'd your self from her, and now she tells you 'twill prove her only consolation, you deny it her: No, no, (Artabanes) if you think you have not really her pardon, a new diso∣bedience is not the way to obtain it; and if you believe you have, why do you deny your self the benefit of it? 'twas with many perswasions of this nature that Artabanes despair was assaulted, which at last were so pre∣valent, that after a deep sigh, he told Sillaces, You have vanquish'd me, (ge∣nerous Friend) yes: I will go to Parthenissa, for since 'tis she I have offend∣ed, 'tis unfit any other but that injur'd innocence should pronounce my sen∣tence: neither can she doubt how sensible I am of my crime, since I make her both the Party, and the Judge, and offer my life unto Arsaces fury, only to preserve it to her justice; you will find (said Sillaces) with extasies of joy, and a thousand embraces, how little cause you have to be apprehensive of either, for as Parthenissa's goodness has pardon'd your offence, so if Oro∣des justice does not imitate her example, let it be my care to preserve your being in Parthia, from his Knowledge. My generous Master

being brought to this good temper, we thought it high time to inform him, that the Romans had in a manner besieg'd us, and that the vastness of our Army had so exhausted the Island of all Provisions, that our necessities, if not our courages must invite us to force our passage. Spartacus heard this advertisement (which till them we had de••lin'd giving him, reason by of his sickness, and melancholly) with a singular satisfaction, and about some four or five days after, having recover'd sufficient strength to make use of a Horse, he came out of his Tent, which the Soldiers celebrated with so loud a shout, that the Romans apprehended their besieg'd were coming to be their Assaulters; neither do I believe their fears had been any thing lessen'd had they known the true cause of that Allarm, for I dare justly affirm, they more apprehended my Princes recovery, than a Battel: But Artaba∣nes having taken 10000 Men for his Guard, went to view that miraculous Trench, which he more admir'd than fear'd; but lest his Officers might misinterpret his silence, he told them; That Crassus (doubtless) had more Pioneers than Soldiers in his Army: that since he never declin'd a Battel, he rather thought the Romans secur'd themselves, than besieg'd him; that 'twas impossible any people could take that pains, b••t for their own pre∣servation; yet lest the world might believe the contrary, he would in few days evince the truth by a demonstration, and was more pleas'd to know where he might fight with Crassus, than troubl'd at those difficul∣ties he must surmount to do it. And indeed not long after, when he had perfectly recover'd his strength, and when all his Army despair'd of disin∣gaging themselves from so ruinous a labyrinth; in a stormy night, when the earth was cover'd with Snow, he gave orders to all his Forces to be ready to march, and whilst he was putting on his Armor, he told Sillaces; Come generous Friend, let us make Crassus defeat, the way to assault Rome, and having taken it, let us retire into Parthia, where I will manifest, that I prefer not the greatest Empire of the world, before lying prostrate at Par∣thenissa's Feet, nay, that I relinquish'd it, for so glorious and advantagi∣ous an exchange; yes Sillaces, I will in few da••s so cover my self with Palmes and Laurels, that my criminal jealousie shall not be seen, and do such virtuous actions, that her justice shall pardon my offence; or my Bloud shall expiate it. These words were scarce spoken, when he put him∣self at the head of the Army, and without the least stop, led on those Troops, who under such a General, could not but be victorious; in effect, Sillaces and he, were the first in person which pull'd down the Roman Ea∣gles, planted more fortunate Ensignes in their places, and without giving their success any leave to cool, with their Swords perform'd so great an execution, and so strew'd the ways with Roman Carcasses, that the effects of their valour almost hinder'd the progress of it, and had they not had a nobler design, they might have besieg'd the living Romans with the dead, and made as famous a Trench by their victory, as Crassius had done by his labour; but the unequal'd Friend so much undervalu'd a Conquest, where nothing was considerable in it, but the number of the Dead, and so abhorr'd all things which retarded their return into Parthia, that leav∣ing Crassus to deplore, and admire his defeat, they took the direct way to Rome, which was to be the crown and limit of their Conquests; but alas, that fatal poyson which the Traitor Canitius had given our Soldiers, began now to shew how strangely it had diffus'd it self; and though Gra∣nicus (a considerable Officer of our Army) were not of his conspiracy, yet imagining that Crassus loss had made him uncapable to revenge it, and finding the Soldiers prepar'd for any Mutiny, he so well husbanded their

disorder, that the second night, as we were in our march towards Rome, he revolted with 13000 Men from our Army, and campt with them near the Lake of Lucania, with intention to set up for himself. Spartacus was ex∣treamly enrag'd at this, and none appear'd more violent to punish it, than the false Canitius, who inwardly rejoy'd at so unexpected an advantage, and immediately advertis'd Crassus of it, lest he might lose that favourable opportunity; but though my Prince was sensible of so great a dismembring of his Forces, yet the belief he had, that in them all the Traytors of the Army were out of it, he consol'd himself, knowing that they were less dan∣gerous in a distinct body, than under his Colours, and to satisfy those that prest him to be reveng'd, he told them; That he knew no way more pro∣bable for their punishment, than their having put themselves out of his pro∣tection, and that he doubted not, but in their very offence they would receive the reward of it. Therefore believing himself for all that loss strong enough to carry Rome by storm, he determin'd the next morning to con∣tinue his march, almost as much troubl'd that Granicus had hinder'd it a day, as at his Revolt; but the first Squadrons were hardly drawn out of the Camp, when advertisement was brought; that Crassus, (who now fought for revenge, and the preservation of Rome) was fall'n upon Gra∣ni••us with so much fury, that 'twas impossible but in it he must find his ru∣ine. This Allarm so mov'd the gallant Spartacus's generosity, that though Canitius, (and Crassus, who by that time was corrupted too) begg'd my Prince to permit the Romans, to become his Executioners, yet considering the danger, and not the cause of it, and remembring Granicus's Courage, and not his Revolt, he lead his Ensignes back to the relief of those, who had so often been victorious under them; and though his only appearing made Crassus return to his Camp in a hasty march, yet it produc'd no other considerable effect; for Granicus and all his Soldiers were kill'd before Spartacus's arrival, not one receiving a wound in his back, or dying out of his rank, preserving that Order with their Bodies, which they could not with their Lives, their Deaths manifesting whose Soldiers they were, and their defeat, what General they had abandon'd; and indeed, my Prince was so taken with their resolution, that he spent two days in gi∣ving them a Military Funeral, burying their Crimes in their Graves. This sad Solemnity perform'd, we continu'd our design; but as if my Prince's Virtue had not opposition enough from publique and private enemies; the heavens themselves conspir'd against him, and by continual Rains so swell'd the Rivers, that the Romans having broken down all the Bridges, it was impossible for him to proceed. I leave you to think what his resent∣ments were at so froward a destiny, for it not only retarded the Conquest of Rome, and, (which was more intollerable) his return to Parthia, but also gave Crassus's recruits leasure to joyn with him, and the danger of the Empire made them so considerable, that before the waters were return'd into their usual channels he came, and with much confidence pitch'd his Tents within some sixteen Furlongs of ours, where the vicinity of our Camps, furnisht frequent occasions of fighting, which was our constant divertisement, in expectation of more favourable weather; but one day Spartacus having advice that Scroffa and Quintus, two of Crassus bravest Captains, were gone with all the Roman Cavalry for Forrage, he sent the generous Sillaces with all his, to intercept their return, where after a bloudy dispute, our Forces, by the valour of their Leader, had the better, who with his own hand having given Scroffa very dangerous marks of his courage, return'd into the Camp, loaden with Victory and Wounds. My

Prince receiv'd him in Triumphs, but was more afflicted for the latter, than pleas'd at the former, esteeming the loss of so much precious Bloud, too prodigal a payment, not only for having vanquish'd those Romans, but though it had done the like unto their Empire. But the Chirurgeons soon mittigated his fears, by an assurance that Sillaces was in no danger, and that the greatest trouble he was like to suffer, was the keeping of his Bed for some 10 or 12 days; Five of which were not expir'd, e're the Flouds were so asswag'd, that Spartacus might have continu'd his march towards Rome, had not his friends weakness hinder'd it. Crassus imputed this delay to his Fear, and having a while before, received advice from Ca∣nitius, that now all things were in such a perfect readiness, that if the Ro∣mans could bring Spartacus to a Battel, he would bring them to a Victory, he determin'd, as a provocation to my Prince (which was a needless la∣bour) to cast up two great Trenches, the one to hinder our passage to∣wards Rome, the other to hinder our Camp from Watering. To inter∣rupt this design, Spartacus made many vigorous attempts, and thereby ne∣cessitated the Romans by fighting, to obtain leave to work; but the eighth day after Sillaces's victory, the morning was spent in so sharp a dispute be∣twixt us, and the Romans, and Seconds on either side came so thick, and numerous, that my Prince perceiving he might engage Crassus, gallop'd back into the Camp, and Commanded all his Army immediately to prepare themselves for a Battel, which whilst they were doing, he came in to Sillaces, where he acquainted him, that before night, he would be in a condition. immediately to return into Parthia, or never to see it again; that nothing appear'd a higher misfortune, than to be depriv'd of his company and help, in so glorious an occasion, but since he had so lately engross'd a memora∣ble victory to himself, he was hopeful he would not repine, if he also laid hold on so favourable, and so often ambition'd an occasion, to imitate his example. Sillaces was extreamly surpriz'd at this Declaration, and having sufficiently curst those former marks of honor, which now hinder'd him from increasing his Stock, he begg'd Artabanes he might wait on him, though in a Litter, that since he could not be a sharer in, he might at least be a Spectator, and admirer of his Glory; and thereupon forcing him∣self to rise, he found how ill a correspondency his Mind and Strength had together: This sad experiment, and my Prince's Prayers, made him yield to his weakness and his friend, who having selected 7000 choice Men, more for the Guard of Sillaces than his Camp, he gave me the Com∣mand of them, and though I begg'd with vehement importunities, to be near his Person in so famous an occasion, yet the consideration of some slight hurts I had receiv'd in Scroffa's defeat, and the necessity of a faithful Attendant on Sillaces, made him deny me. The two generous Friends ha∣ving took leave of one another, with words, which nothing but so per∣fect a friendship was capable to produce, and my Prince having done me the honor to embrace me, he immediately lead his Troops which con∣sisted (not counting those left with me) of 55000 effective Men, to that Field in which he was confident they would purchase so much Glory; where he already found the Roman Army in Batalia, and with as much re∣solution in their countenance, and posture, as if they had been victorious as often, as defeated; his Army too being put in order, by an Oration, he animated his Soldiers, and then gave order to the Trumpets, Clarions, and all the warlike Musick to do the like, by sounding the Charge; and that his Soldiers might see his resolution, in all their sight, he kill'd that Horse, which he constantly made use of in a Battel, saying, that if ••e were

••onqueror, he should want none, and if defeated, he would make use of none. My Princes Army was divided into two great Battalions, the great∣est was led by Canitius and Castus, which consisted of 30000 Horse and Foot, the other which made up 25000 more, had my Prince in the head of them, who that morning was assur'd by those two Traitors, that they would act miracles, which indeed they perform'd, in betraying the great∣est Virtue that ever shin'd upon Earth. The ground over which my ge∣nerous Master's Batalion was to move, proved ••o uneven, that the other went first to the Charge, and those which led it march'd with much order, and seeming resolution, till they came within shot of their Enemies, but then Canitius and Crassus (with each of them about forty of their chief∣est Officers) turning the points of their Javelins to the ground, abandon'd their Soldiers, and ran full speed to the Romans, who opening their Divi∣sions, receiv'd them with shouts of Triumph. This Treachery you may well imagine, brought a world of confusion in those un-officer'd Troops, and in the height of it, the two Traitors, accompany'd with their adherents, and some Romans, return'd, and Canitius in Crassus's name, offer'd all those their Lives, who would lay down their Arms; to which a gallant Thracian (that my Prince had honour'd with a considerable Command) immediately reply'd, Traitor, 'tis a higher satisfaction to punish thy Treachery, than to live by it, and 'tis upon that score, that I decline the latter, to act the form∣er; thereupon, breaking like Lightning through a hundred Swords, he past his through Canitius's Body, and by so resolute a performance, depriv'd him of his Life; but Euriles (for his Virtue, Merits, to have his name re∣corded) had not the consolation long to out-live his and Spartacus's re∣venge; yet before his death, he gave Castus (who was most earnest after it) so many wounds, that he made him Canitius's companion, as well in Death as Infidelity, and sent him to learn in the other world, the punish∣ment which attends the being treacherous in this. But though the begin∣ner of this generous Action, found his own end in it; yet it had so strange an influence over all those which were ignorant of Canitius's designes, that in imitation of Euriles, having chang'd their disorder into resolution, they oppos'd all those which were not of their opinions, so that the numbers being almost equally divided, there began a most bloudy dispute, and the Romans had that satisfaction to see those Swords which were design'd for their ruine, employ'd to ruine those which had that design; But whilst the Honest, and the Traytors, were thus engag'd one against another, (Crassus being inform'd, that Canitius and Castus were dead, to whom on∣ly he had past his word) came, and ended both their differences, by end∣ing all their Lives; which was no small satisfaction to my Prince's marty'rd Friends, to see those which their companions fought for, to become the punishers of their Treachery. But (continu'd Symander) you wonder, perhaps, why Spartacus all this while was idle? but your admiration may cease when I inform you, that the Fates, either not to see so unparalell'd a Treachery, or to contribute towards it, had on a suddain rais'd so thick a Mist, for above a quarter of an hour, that my Prince, by the uncouthness of the ground, advancing slowly with his Battalion, could not possibly see what had happen'd, and perhaps had longer continu'd in his ignorance, had not a Trooper which escap'd the Enemy, come full speed, and aloud adver∣tis'd him of those events which I have told you, but not of their cause: and immediately after, as if that Mist had been purposely sent to contribute to his ruine, and then to shew him the greatness of it, it suddainly broke up, and discover'd the cruel execution the Romans had made and their Army in all its Glory▪ marching a precipitate pace to Charge us. Gods!

what courage (but Artabanes) had not been startl'd under such misfor∣tunes? but his was so far from being thereby impair'd, that it increast, and turning to those that follow'd him, he encourag'd them, both by his words, and then by his example, for advancing some hundr'd paces before all the rest, he call'd Crassus out, resolving as the Romans had by accident, de∣priv'd his Army of a Wing, so he would by his valour deprive theirs of its Head. At this Summons, two of Crassus valiantest Centurions, successively came out of their ranks to my Prince, and by a fatal counterfeiting, were render'd for ever uncapable of deluding him again; Crassus perceiving by those examples, what his own Fate had been, had his Valour resembl'd theirs, declin'd what he was going to undertake, and to disguise his fear, commanded his Army to cut in pieces all the Reliques of those Slaves, (for those were his words.) But why do I dwell so long on so sad a sub∣ject? let it suffice, I tell you, that Spartacus was become so horrible by the being cover'd with his Enemies bloud; that his Presence was as much ap∣prehended, as his Sword; that in his was verified the Fable of Anteus, re∣covering strength by his very falls; that he never won so much Glory in all his victories, as in that defeat; and that he perform'd such prodigious ex∣ploits, that I absolutely believe, had he been blest but with twenty of his humour, and resolution, their valours had supply'd the losses of Canitius Treachery; but at length, those Divisions he had left, being infinitely over-numbred, dishearten'd, and pierc'd in several places, were totally routed, and most of the•• cut in pieces; Spartacus perceiv'd it, and might have avoided so general a Fate, but scorning to out-live a loss, which he thought would have render'd him worthy of it, and observing a Roman, who had that fatal day made himself admirably remarkable, by his courage, he seiz'd upon one of those many Horses which were without Masters, and taking a Javelin in his hand, he ran full speed after him, and having over∣taken him alone in the Grove, in the midst whereof was a little Meadow, fit for his purpose, he cry'd out to his valiant Enemy, To me, to me, brave Roman, I am Spartacus, and seek but a gallant Sword to cure this days mis∣fortune; 'Tis thee I seek (the other briskly reply'd) and since thou hast thought me sit to end thy sufferings; I should be very unwilling to have thee mistaken in thy choice; thereupon they both leapt a Ditch in∣to that little Meadow, where having fetcht as long a Career, as the place would permit, they fell upon each other with more futy, than two oppo∣site Storms, and their Javelins flying into the Air into a thousand shivers, they drew their Swords to supply that loss, and to end their combate, or their Lives; and truly they were so intent upon each others ruine, that 'tis a miracle they did not mutually act it; above a quarter of an hour the dispute was so equally ballanc'd, that detesting the faithfulness of their Armours, they were often upon the point of moving a truce, till they had taken them off, but so long to be idle, appear'd a greater difficulty, than to cut them in pieces in the fight; at last my Prince enrag'd, that posterity should know one single Sword ended a life, which that day had divers times forced a passage through a thousand, recollecting all the strength which his Grief and Rage could inspire him with, struck his valiant Ene∣my so furious a blow, that cleaving his shield in two, it did the like unto the Gorget, and made a wound upon the height of his Shoulder. He (on the other side) enrag'd at a resistance, which till then he had never found, to be only vanquish'd when all the Army he fought in was victorious, and to leave so liberal a gift unrepaid, stiffening himself upon his Stirrups, and inflaming himself with those thoughts, by an unresistable reverse, which

though it glanc'd upon my Princes shield, yet afterwards lighting upon his Helmet, cleft it in two, and left his Head and Face unguarded, and unco∣ver'd; which his Enemy perceiving, and as the gods would have it, know∣ing perfectly those unequall'd Features, though his Sword were in the Air, to prosecute the advantage my Princes perfidious Armour had given him, yet he suspended it there, and by crying out, Great gods! is it not Arta∣banes that I see? not only hinder'd Spartacus by that example, and those words, from giving him a blow, whose strength had render'd it unavoid∣ably fatal to the Receiver, but also made him say, who ever thou art, if thou be'st a friend to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Romans, kill me as Spartacus, and if thou be'st a friend to me, kill me as Artabanes, for this days misery will make the grant∣ing that request, the highest proof thou ca••st give me of thy being mine. The gods forbid, (the Stranger reply'd, unlacing his Helmet) that ever my Sword should be employ'd in so criminal an action, for though my ig∣norance made my sacrelegious Arm offend, 'tis not the gods themselves that can command my knowledge of you to repeat my sin; thereupon flinging off his Helmet, he discover'd a Face, which Spartacus no sooner saw, than they both ran with as much willingness to embrace, as they be∣fore did to destroy one another; and for a while, my Prince in the joy of such an encounter, had laid aside the thoughts of those miseries which had caus'd it; but alas, they were too deep, and too recent to be forgotten, and the sad remembrance of them, made him on a suddain cry out, Oh gods! why do you give me so new a subject to desire Life, when you had so lately given me many to detest it? and why (if you design my ruine) do you make him know, and favour me, that was only capable to act it? These reasonings made him that only heard them, admire what might be their cause, and his wonder producing his silence, made my dear Master thus to continue; No, no, Artabanes, when thou wert a Slave to Fortune, and to the Romans, and when thou sought'st Death and not Victory, the gods gave thee the last, and deny'd thee the first; but now thou bear'st the glorious Title of Parthenissa's, the gods having deny'd thee the la••ter, deny not thy self the former, shew by so generous an experiment, that he which for not obtaining the victory, could act his own death, did not lose the one, out of an apprehension of the other; Thereupon he had certain∣ly extinguish'd the fairest life that ever was, had not the generous Arta∣vasdes (for 'twas he whom Spartacus had fought with, and whose strange being in the Roman Army, shall be told you in its due order) observing my Prince's despair proceeded from his defeat, first hinder'd the fatal effects of it, and then to take away the cause, assur'd him that he was betray'd, and not vanquish'd. Spartacus at this assurance (for till then he was ignorant of it) look'd upon his Friend with a Face which spoke his doubts, and then begg'd him to deal clearly, and inform him, whether what he had said, was not onely out of a design to hinder his violence towards himself? But Artavasdes having by many protestations, and particulars, assur'd him of Canitius and Castus's persidiousness, made Artabanes (who saw that 'twas not Crassus, but Treachery that had beaten him) to relinquish those sad designes he had upon his own life, and to preserve it for a perfection, who only merited so transcendent a blessing. This resolve was no sooner taken up, but the apprehension of Sillaces's safety, began to afflict my Prince with such excess, that Artavasdes for a while suspected, a relapse into his former despair produced it; but being inform'd of the occasion, he immediately made Artabanes to fling away his own Arms, to take those of a Servant of his, (which by accident was riding by) and then assuring him, the power he

had with Crassus was so great, that if Sillaces were not already lost, he durst undertake his, and my preservation (for they were so generous as to give me a part in their care) they both gallop'd away towards the Camp, where they found, that night (and not victory) had put an end to the Romans Assault, whereby it was apparent, if so unconsiderable a person as Symander, could defend so large a Line with so few hands, what then would Artabanes have done with so vast an Army, had it been free from Treachery? Artavasdes therefore joy'd at Crassus's repulse, and having lodg'd Artabanes in his own Tent, caus'd an inviolable secresie to be administer'd to his Servants, and his generous friends wounds to be drest, which were many, and those much inflam'd by that violent agitation, that his care to preserve Sillaces, had occasion'd; he went to Crassus (who with eloquent Elogies gave his Valour a just Character) and acquainted him, that a Servant, or rather a Friend of his, (for his unimitable fidelity, merited that name) was taken prisoner in the Enemies Camp, dangerously wound∣ed, and had sent him word, that he had obtain'd his own liberty, if Crassus would engage himself to their Commander in Chief, to release the first pri∣soner of his quality which he should take; that whether or no this was granted, he desir'd that a Chirurgeon might be sent him, (all those of the Enemies were so busy about their own Patients, that none of them had the time, or the charity to dress his wounds.) Artavasdes further told the Roman General, that the Chirurgeon he meant to employ, might serve al∣so to bring intelligence, in what posture the reliques of his Enemies were, and added to those two so many further motives, that Crassus willingly yielded to both his requests. Artavasdes was no sooner return'd, than he acquainted my Prince with what he had done, and after a short consultati∣on, they immediately imploy'd the faithful Philanax (who my Prince men∣tion'd in his generous Friends adventures) as a Chirurgeon to Sillaces, who passing the Roman Guards (by Crassus's direction) came with a Letter of Credence under Artabanes's hand, into our Camp, and fill'd us both, by the relation I have made you, with a joy, which nothing could equal but the greatness of our grief, before his arrival; but the time pressing us, I gave all my Soldiers Orders (by Philanaxes's advice) to shift for themselves du∣ring the obscurity, for we were not able next morning with so small num∣bers to receive that storm was intended; therefore all of them that night (by a way which the Romans thought inaccessable) descended to a little River, that issues from the Lake of Lucania, where some that could swim, helping others that could not, what by that charity, and some few Boats and Planks which were there, and which had been employ'd to fetch Victu∣als to our Camp, whilst the Floods were so violent, all of them (before day) recover'd the Mountains of the Brutians, where afterwards they re∣new'd the War, and furnish'd Pompey with an occasion to tell the Senate, that it was Crassus had defeated the Slaves in Battel, but 'twas he had pull'd up the War by the very root. But our Soldiers were no sooner gone, than Philanax and I prepar'd Silla••••••'s Litter, and having put him into it, we car∣ried him out of the Camp, and freely passing the Roman Guards, brought him to Artavasdes's Tent, where these three great Men manifested their joys, and friendship, in expressions, which if not related in their own words, were too great a wrong unto them; and the better to palliate the business, I writ a Letter to Crassus (as Commander in Chief of his Enemies) and deliver'd it with my own hands, as a Messenger sent expresly with it from the Camp, wherein I let him know, that upon his promise of the like ci∣vility, I had sent the Prisoner he desir'd, and afterwards to favour the

flight of that remainder of my Prince's Army, I assur'd him, those in the Camp were in a readiness for some exploit, that 'twas not impossible but they would make a desperate Sally, to fell their Lives handsomely, and that I told him this the more freely, because I was resolv'd to abandon his enemies for ever, being assur'd of my Life and Liberty by the prisoner, I had brought off. Crassus for this Intelligence, and at Artavasdes's request (who accompany'd me to him) confirm'd what the prisoner promis'd, and immediately put all his Camp in Arms, in apprehension of a Sally, which abundantly contributed to my poor companion's escape; For all the Romans being only intent on the east side of our Camp, which was the only place for an attempt, permitted those on the West (which was the way that lead to the River) to make a more facile flight. 'Twas in this sort (continu'd Symander) that all things happen'd in that famous Battel of the Trenches; I know some Romans gave out, that Spartacus was cut in pieces, others (and more truly) affirm'd, that after the Battel, his Body was never found, and some too (knowing none could contradict them, for there was no Quarter given) and, to receive a reward, cut off a Head, which they said was my Prince's, carried it to Rome, and fix'd it on the Gate of the Capitol. To conclude this part of my Story, I will not tell you all those desires Ar∣tabanes had to return to those Men, which escap'd unto the Brutain Moun∣tains, whose courage and fidelity he admir'd, and with whom he was con∣fident to repair the misfortune of Canitius and Castus's Treacheries. 'Tis enough you learn, That had not his wounds hinder'd him a while, and their defeat afterwards he would never have return'd to Parthia, without ha∣ving redeem'd that loss, which was his misfortune not his fault. The next morning as Crassus was preparing to repeat his Assault, news was brought him, that his Enemies had abandon'd the Camp, at which his discontent was greater in appearance, than in effect, for we had not so ill defended our selves the precedent day, as to make any thing which avoided a second storm, appear a misfortune. Three days Crassus spent, to repair the disor∣ders of his Army, and to bury the dead, le••t if left without Sepulture, the numbers being great, they might infect the Air; in which time my Prince acquainted the generous Artavasdes with his Fortunes, who admir'd as∣much to find Artabanes, the famous Spartacus, as he was joy'd to have been the instrument of saving him. When Crassus had ended his charitable, and necessary Office, he return'd to Rome by easy marches, which gave Sillaces and my Prince, the means of accompanying Artavasdes thither, and where they had enter'd in Triumph, if their Success had proportion'd their Vir∣tue.

When Symander was in this part of his Relation, one of the Priests of Venus came in great haste to advertise him, and Callimachus, that Artabanes was return'd, and had brought with him a stranger, that yielded nothing to him in the blessings of Nature, that they were both much wounded, but yet they seem'd, in the joy of having found out each other, to have forgotten the danger they were in. Callimachus therefore perceiving Sy∣mander's impatiency, to satisfy it, and his own, immediately went to learn the cause of this fresh accident, and provide necessaries for persons which rendr'd his Charity as much a Duty, as 'twas a Virtue.

The end of the Second Part of Parthenissa.