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

PARTHENISSA.

THE THIRD PART.

BOOK I.

THE News which the Priest of Venus brought to his Superior, and Symander, was very true; for whilest the last was acquainting the first with his generous Princes Adventures, he himself (as has been related) was retir'd into a solitude which that morning he had discover'd, where (by Fortunes giving him some ease, the better to enable him to support her longer cruelties) he was fallen into a slumber; and though his cares were so unusually civil, as not to interrupt it, yet it was suddenly, by a noise of Horses, and clashing of Swords, and Arms, which reach'd his ear, which invited him to take his Horse, and gallop to the place from whence this Alarm came, to learn the subject of it; the continuance of the noise, and the swiftness of his Horse, faithfully and suddenly b••ought him to see a Combat which struck him both with admiration and anger; the first was caus'd by a single Valor, which could not be but transcendent, since it had such an Admirer; and the last was occasion'd by six armed men, which endeavor'd to destroy the possessor of it; who, to sell his life at a rate worthy so high a purchase, and to make his Enemies deplore the de∣struction of so great a Courage, or the effects of it, had already kill'd two of them, with blows that struck as great a terror into the rest, as the very example of those deaths; but finding at last that his Courage might be worsted by, though not yield to his Enemies numbers, he was retir'd to a little Thicket that shelter'd him behind, and his Horse being kill'd in the retreat, defended his right side, doing him service even after death: 'twas in this little fortification and posture, Artabanes found him, and there be∣ing no greater invitation to his generous mind for the relieving of virtue, than to find it in distress, he instantly took up one of the dead mens Hel∣mets, to join himself to the opprest stranger, who (as he was coming full speed towards him) thinking the now wearer of the Helmet, as much his Enemy, as he that had so lately worn it, cry'd out to Artabanes, Make haste, make haste, and help those, whose hearts are as ill as their cause; and who need relie on their number, since they cannot on their quarrel. Our Hero esteem'd it more handsom and necessary, to shew the generous Stran∣ger his error by his actions, than words, and at his first strokes so abun∣dantly did it, that he which he reliev'd, thought his mistake a greater mis∣fortune, than that which he had now more than hopes to be freed from; and indeed Artabanes perform'd things so far above his strength, though not himself, that three of the surviving four, left the Stranger, to employ

their Swords against an Enemy, who they concluded would render the odds as needful, as it was dispoportionate; but the valiant Stranger finding he had to deal but with one, and that his relief might endanger the Bestower of it, suddenly abandon'd his intrenchment, and as suddenly made his Ad∣versary abandon his life; but his Horse he made use of to assist his unknown Friends, who was already in a condition not to need it, for he had killed one of the three; and the other two perceiving how powerful an additi∣on was coming, endeavor'd in their Horses feet, to find a security they de∣spaired of from their own hands: Artabanes and the Stranger followed them awhile, but finding more difficulty in the Chace, than the Quarry merited; and that the way they had taken to avoid their resentments, rendered them unworthy of them, they gave over the pursuit; and then the Stranger having with as much grace, as civility, beg'd a Pardon from Artabanes, for a mistake created by the Arms he had on told him, Though my life is rather a misfortune, than the contrary, yet my obligation to my Deliverer is nothing inferior; and what my miseries made me desirous to lose, (though not in so unhandsom a way) my gratitude now obliges me to preserve, since I esteem the giver of my lite, has too great a share, and title in it, to dispole of it without him. A••tabanes extremely satisfied with so obligaing a civility, told the maker of it, I have (generous Stranger) as little title to your life, as to your relief; and if by drawing my Sword in your quarrel, I have done any thing, it deserves rather your resentment, than your thanks, since I have contributed but to a Victory that was cer∣tain without my assistance, and under a pretence of serving you, ••ob'd you in part of a glory, which your courage only had won. Were not your performance (the Stranger reply'd) of a quality that manifests you in∣jure your actions when you decline their merit, I might as easily evince that Truth, as acknowledge it; and if you refuse that Present I offer you, (as having receiv'd it from you) I shall esteem your declining it, as high a mis∣fortune, as any that has made me esteem my life so. If (said Artabanes) there be any obligation in what I have done, it wholly reflects upon me, that have more obliged my self than you, in serving so prodigal a gratitude; but (he continu'd) perceiving some blood dropping from the Stangers wounds, as well as from his own, let us not lose the benefits of your safety, by disputing who you deriv'd it from; and though I am a Stranger in these Parts as well as you, and as much your Equal in misery, as you are my Su∣perior in those virtues, of which, that ought not to be the reward; yet I can offer you a retirement, till your health, or business, invites you to pro∣secute your journey. I am (reply'd the Stranger) so miserable a crea∣ture, that nothing can increase my being so, but the belief that you are a more; and though I accept of your civility till my wounds be healed, yet I must beg your pardon if I first learn from whom I receiv'd them. Are you (said Artabanes) yet ignorant of that? Yes, (said the Stranger) and cannot fancy, any that knows me, and are my Enemies, can be so much mistaken in their revenge, as to think killing me, is any. 'Twas such dis∣courses as these, that brought them where the marks of their Courages and Victory lay, where the Stranger pulling off all the Murtherers Hel∣mets, to learn if he knew any of them, found himself as ignorant in their faces, as in the cause of their malice; yet one of them, by the benefit of the Air, and by the turning of his Body, faintly open'd his eyes, and being ask'd of the Stranger, who 'twas that had invited them to so unfortunate, and unjust an attempt, was only answer'd by half words, and signs, 'twas the Prince of Parthia; and then he clos'd both them and his lips for ever.

Whil'st the Stranger was thus employ'd about this dying man, Artabanes was about his companions, whose souls were so long fled from their guilty bodies, that all his pains and art could not recall them; this made him re∣turn to the unknown Gentleman, who he found (by that little intelligence he had gotten) almost as moveless, as he that had given it him; but Arta∣banes's presence drew him from his amazement, and after he had fruitlesly endeavor'd to make a dead man speak, he beg'd our Hero's pardon for his necessary incivility, which had so long suspended his waiting on him to that retirement, which he was now ready to do. Artabanes obey'd this invita∣tion, but observing that he which made it, was more melancholy than he had been, he desir'd to know whether he had newly learn'd any thing that caus'd it. Alas Sir (said the Stranger) I am inform'd who has attempted against my life, and am involv'd, by that knowledge, in a higher confusion than I was in, by my ignorance, Artabanes perceiving by what he had said, that he was not willing to explain himself, alter'd the subject of his dis∣course which he entertain'd him with, till they came to the Temple (the place as the Stranger said of his intended journey) where our Hero brought him to his own Lodgings, and where they had no sooner pull'd off their Helmets, than having awhile gaz'd at each other with a mutual and high ad∣miration, they suddenly after ran to embrace with as much joy and satisfa∣ction. One of the goddesses Priests was present at this Adventure, who carry'd his Superior the news of it; and though at his departure, the two friends were in one anothers arms, yet he, Callimachus, and Symander, found them still in the same posture; and because the celebration of their joyes, hinder'd them from taking notice of this company, the last of it, being un∣willing to interrupt a contentment, which he knew was as just as great, took the leisure to acquaint Callimachus, that the Gentleman his Prince em∣brac'd, was the generous Artavasdes, the beginning of whose Story he had learn'd from Artabanes, and the service he had render'd him, was the subject of their last discourse. Callimachus was highly satisfi'd to have at once in his house, more virtue than the world had besides; but whil'st he was in the contemplation of that blessing, the Chyrurgions which he had sent for, coming in, interrupted it, and Artabanes, and Artavasdes, perceiving how rude their joy had been, repair'd it by a thousand excuses; but Cal∣lima••hus, more intent on their healths, than their civilities, broke them off, to employ the Chyrurgions, who having search'd both their wounds, found them somewhat inflam'd; and that they might prove dangerous, unless by quietness and silence, they would contribute to their recovery; and though Callimachus had prepar'd a magnificent Apartment for Artavasdes, yet nei∣ther that, nor the Chyrurgions Prayer could invite them to a separation; nay, 'twas with much difficulty that they extorted a promise from the Princes, not to speak to one another in Four and twenty hours, which they both profest was more troublesom to them than those wounds, to which their silence was to be a contributory cure. Symander, who knew his Prince was as much concern'd in Artavasdes, as in himself, proportion'd his care accordingly, and the Holy Priest by his transcendent diligence, manifested he knew the merit of his Guests; but the first time for their silence being expir'd, the Physitians enjoin'd a second of the same continuance, which our Hero's would not have submitted unto, but upon a faithful promise af∣ter that was efflux'd, they should, and might without danger, entertain one another. Callimachus was as impatient at this new imposition, as they were, on who it was impos'd; and though his curiosity was great, yet his civility was greater, which hinder'd him from desiring Symander to Con∣tinue

his Naration, or from begging his Prince to command it him. But the so much impatiented however was no sooner come, than Artavasdes remov'd his Bed, so near to that of Artabanes, that they might discourse as commodiously, as if they both had lay'n in one. There the generous Ar∣menian began to exclaim against his fortune, for having render'd his mise∣rise contagious, and for having made the means of his deliverance, a great∣er misfortune, than the want of it could have prov'd. But Artabanes took him up so short, and so civilly, for thinking those wounds a misfortune, which had secur'd his friend, that Artavasdes, by being fore'd to beleieve them none, found them a greater. Callimachus came in as the two Princes were in those discourses, and finding them so employ'd, offer'd again to re∣tire; but Artabanes had given his friend so true a character of him, that they jointly assured him, his company could never prove an injury, but in his depriving them of it: This (with their entreaties) stay'd him, and he being too much concern'd in both their Lives, not to be ambitious to learn the Accidents which compos'd them, cast out some oblique words that ma∣nifested his curiosity, which infinitely reviv'd Artabanes's who remem∣bring some fad expressions his friends had us'd in their late meeting, and be∣ing impatient to learn the whole, of what he knew but in part, beg'd him to satisfie both Callimachus's, and his Prayers. Sir, (said the virtuous Priest) since you have made my curiosity your request, I will let you know, that Symander's Story being interrupted by the generous Artavas∣des's arrival, he cannot better repair that injury, than in telling his own; and to induce him the rather to it, I can truly assure him, I had learn'd a part of it before now, had not he himself hinder'd it; for we were already so far ad∣vanc'd, as to your strange encounter at the Battel of the Trenches, and to your coming to Rome. Artabanes was somewhat troubled, that to satisfie Callimachus, he must be necessitated to remain awhile ignorant of a fresh intelligence, to listen unto one he knew, yet he was so perfectly interressed in all his friends Actions, and in the respect due to so signal a person, that he besought Artavasdes to begin his Adventures, from their separation in Par∣thia, ••ince till then Callimachus had learn'd them from his mouth. Artavas∣des having first ty'd the generous Parthian to repay his Story, by acquaint∣ing him afterwards with his own, began his obedience to his friends com∣mands, in these terms:

The Continuation of Altezeera's, and Artavasdes's Story.

AFter I had recover'd my liberty, by your running so great a hazard to yours, which I attest the gods was a higher trouble to me, than the benefit I thereby enjoy'd was a satisfaction, I found in Rysolis by your commands, a continuance of your favours, who, under the pretence of searching for me as far the Confines of Armenia, was my Convoy thi∣ther, where he dismist me, as sending me in the quality of a Spy, after my self. In my journey from thence towards Artaxata, in divers Towns, I saw many which deplor'd me for dead, and found by the small services I had paid my King and Countrey, I was much more esteem'd of, than either I thought, or merited; I know not whether the vainty of repeating those flattering sights, the desire of being at the Court before any knew of my being at liberty, or the providence of the gods, made me continue my Voyage in my disguise; but this I know, that had I cast it off, I had at the

same time cast off my safety with it. The Cloaths I then wore, were a com∣mon Troopers, so that a violent War being kindled in Armenia, I past the gates of Artaxata in that quality, without examination, and lighting at the Palace, I went (to my admiration) to the Princesses Apartment, without meeting any by the way, and the door of the Chamber being unlock'd, I gently open'd it, where the reward of so large a confidence, was the sight of the fair Altezeera; and though I unexpectedly made a little noise, yet her thoughts were so obliquely intentive, that she heard it not, and there∣by gave me liberty to contemplate a Beauty, that had nothing in degrees equal to it, but the zeal and passion with which I ador'd it; and truly I was so ravisht in the contemplation of so many perfections, that had not the Possessor of them, by hazard turning her eyes that way, taken me from my rapture, I had longer continu'd in it; but as soon as I found to lengthen my felicity, was to lengthen my rudeness, I cast my self at her feet, to beg a pardon, for having continu'd it so long, and for having so much intrencht upon her retirement. My voice and my actions chang'd the fair Altezeera's fear into admiration, since a Soldiers coming into her Chamber, could not more create the former, than that Soldiers being Artavasdes did the latter. Great gods! when her wonder was supprest, how liberally did she reward the sufferings of my duty, and manifested so transcendent a joy for my deliverance, that the sight of it, inspir'd me with a greater, than the cause of it could my Princess. There (generous Artabanes) I told her of your gallantry, and that the same fortune I had had in Love, did follow me in War, since I ow'd my preservation to my Conqueror; but alas these contentments were as sho••t as their relation, for Altezeera assur'd me I was in more danger in A••t••••ata, than in the place from whence I came; that she hop'd by the cloaths I wore, I was not ignorant of it; and that I would more fully convince her thereof, by retiring to my Fathers Army. Madam, (I reply'd, somewhat surpriz'd) If what you last mention'd must be the evincement of that belief, I fear 'twill be also of my ruine; and if I must be banish'd from my Princess, and by her, I shall be in greater danger in Ar∣menia, than I was in Parthia, since the consolation of my miseries there, is ravish'd from me here: As for my disguise, 'twas rather by chance, than design, for I am as free from fear, as guilt; neighter do I know the posture my Father, and the Kingdom is in, though, as I Travel'd, I heard some dis∣courses of both: But the information was so dark and confus'd, that it left me in as deep an ingorance, as their silence could. I will tell you then (said Altezeera) that Anexander, after some sharp encounters with Zenax∣tus (who you know, before your Expedition into Parthia, had taken up Arms to revenge his Brother Celindus's death, and to maintain his ambition and quarrel) within these ten dayes, under the very walls of Nicapolis, drew your Father to a pitch'd Battel, in which his Courage and Cause gave him so entire a Victory, that the marks of it were all the Rebels Colours, and the Field pav'd with 35000 of their Bodies, the Reliques, with their General, saved themselves within that City, the Mertropolis of the Rebel∣lion, which Anexander the next morning besieg'd, and from whence Ze∣naxtus sent a Trumpeter, to let him know, he was desirous to Treat, but it should be with his King, not his Conqueror. Anezander esteem'd it his du∣ty to inform Artabazus of this, and as much his duty to dissuade him from accepting it; which the more to induce him to, he undertook in 30 days, to send this capitualating Traytor to Artaxata, in a posture as low, as his condition, or hopes. These Letters came three dayes since, and being de∣bated in a general Council, (which till then, since your imprisonment had *

not been convened) Crassolis, and his party, by their old power, and incli∣nations, advis'd and persuaded my Brother, to go Post in person to Annex∣ander's Camp, and there not only settle a Peace by a Treaty, or a Conquest, but also have the glory of doing it. This being determin'd, and the Coun∣cil ready to break up, the generous Phanasder, who by your favour suc∣ceeded Celindus in all his Commands and Dignities, and consequently was of the highest quality in this Assembly, earnestly motion'd, that some im∣mediate course might be taken for restoring you to that liberty, you had so meritoriously and successfully lost; and that for the effecting thereof, Am∣bassadors might be sent to Arsaces. The false Crassolis in a set Speech, (be∣ing the mouth of the Council) gave Phanasder an answer as handsom, as hypocritical, for his care of so publick a concernment; which to forget, (he said) was to be as unmindful of the general gratitude, as safety. I tell you (said Artavasdes to Artabanes) Altezeera's words, and Crassolis flattery] but (continu'd Crassolis) I am apprehensive, that the way which Phanas∣der propounds, will be obstructive to the end, which would be sooner rea∣ched by a seeming neglect of Artavasdes, than a real and pressing sollicita∣tion for him, since I have ever observ'd, that the Parthians raise the value of what they posses, by the value they know we place on it. I must con∣fess (reply'd Phanasder) were Artavasdes's performances of a quality that they could be conceal'd, there might be some appearance in Crassolis Allegation, but since the very Act which made him a Prisoner, makes him unworthy to continue so, our∣neglecting his liberty, will look too like a de∣sign, not to be taken for one. These, and many other Reasons of Phanas∣ders, were so prevalent with my Brother, that he order'd Ambassadors should be sent, and the care of sending them to Crassolis: The King thus declining his Advice, follow'd it; and Phanasder, who saw it no time to dissemble, told Artabazus so much, for which he receiv'd so severe a repre∣hension, that yesterday morning when my Brother took Post to go to An∣nexander's Army, Phanasder retir'd unto Artemita, the chief Town of his Government. But that which brought no small accession to his discon∣tent, was, Artabazus leaving the care of this City to Crassolis, and with it, that of two such considerable and dangerous Prisoners, as Tygranes, and Pa∣lisdes. But (continu'd Altezeera) that you may see my Brother was not sent from hence only to eclipse your Fathers glory, but also to raise that of Tygranes, I will acquaint you with an intelligence as strange, as the manner of my learning it. You are not ignorant that Regeliza (my chiefest Con∣fident) has as much judgment, as beauty, the last of which has so infinite∣ly inflam'd Crassolis eldest Son, that he has not long since acquainted her with what effects it has produc'd; and though his Virtues, and Birth, might have made her consider, and condemn that Declaration as a confidence, yet the power she has over herself, made her suppress all resentments of words, in hope to acquaint him with hers in a more sensible way; the bet∣ter to effect this, after by many Artifices she had induc'd the young Lover (who she knew his Father doted on) to believe, all her doubts were, that his passion was rather an appearance, than a reality; and that what con∣firm'd her in that belief, was, his never communicating any of those secrets, in which he was a principal Agent, and which he could not conceal, were not his heart and word strangers; she so admirably acted her part, that this morning her servant, to silence her reproaches and doubts, clearly inform'd her, that Artabazus was sent out of the way, but to place Tygranes in the Throne; That though Crassolis had not yet as great an influence over that young Prince, as over his Father, yet he was confident of obtaining it, by

the obligation of a Crown, and of Liberty; That Artabazus was too ea∣sie to be a good Friend, and was as facile to be lost, as won; That on the contrary, though Tygranes was hard to begain'd, yet being so, he was hard∣lier lost; That Crassolis had done too much privately, not to apprehend the discovery; and having merited death, his Adversaries were too dili∣gent, and too considerable, not to fear it; That Anexander was so success∣ful and powerful, that either he would obtain, or assume the Authority, ei∣ther of which, would be his Fathers ruine; That Palisdes and Tygranes were perfectly reconcil'd, and had join'd their interests; That Artabazus and Artavasdes absence, would give them the opportunity to be Gover∣nors, where they were Prisoners; and that Crassolis (to leave as little in the power of fortune as he could, and to seem to follow what he lead) was to be made a Prisoner by his Friends, to have this mutation appear his pu∣nishment, not his design, thereby not to lose the Father, if the Son lost himself; and that all this was immediately to be put in execution, lest the delay of the Conspiracy, might be the ruine of it. Regeliza seem'd to ap∣prove this Plot, lest her Lover might have suspected she condemn'd it; but he was no sooner gone, than she (being more faithful to her Mistriss than her servant) came this morning, and acquainted me with what I have you, which was the cause of that deep melancholy you found me in, and which your presence here will continue and increase. The fair Altezeera (said Artavasdes) had no sooner done speaking, than I found, that the Kings ab∣sence was the cause of so solitary a Court; that Artabazus was an enemy to reason, and to gratitude, or to Artavasdes, and that Phanasder was not to the two latter. 'Twas therefore that I humbly beg'd Altezeera to make Ar∣temita her Sanctuary, and not expose herself amongst those, to whom Loy∣alty and Nature were only words. But my fair Princess absolutely oppo∣sed it, alledging, that there was more hazard in a flight from Artaxata, than in a continuance in it; That if she did remove, Regaliza must do so too, and consequently lose all intelligence; or by leaving her behind, raise a jealousie in Crassolis son of the Cause, and thereby inevitably ruine what it should perform; That she had sent already an Express after Artabazus with the intelligence, and an assurance that she would, to continue it, re∣side where she had learn'd it, till either his Commands called her from thence, or his Forces render'd it a secure habitation; that if after such an Engagement she should flie away with me, who (all men knew) had a passion for her, it might raise too pregnant jealousies that her love, and not her fear, was the occasion of her remove; and that since she knew there was, nor could be nothing intended to her prejudice, she had no reason to contribute to it, by her own Actions, and to put herself in danger to be safe, when she was already so without any. I then propounded my going immediately to Artemita, which was not above 200 Furlongs off, and with Phanasder's Forces attempt to suppress the Rebellion before it appear'd. To which my Princess answer'd, That could I effect my Proposition, what proofs could I bring of the intended Conspiracy, but Regeliza's saying it? which would be too invalidated by her servants denial, and be look'd upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 an Act of my hatred to Crassolis: But my Proposition was so far from being feasible, that Tygranes, and his Partisans, had above 4000 select men alrea∣dy in Artaxata, who would execute their design before I could tell it Pha∣nasder; she therefore conjur'd me, since my continuing with her would but increase her fears, and my danger, and that my being out of Artaxata might probably contribute to the speedy reduction of it, and her delive∣rance, that I would immediately leave off all thoughts of the former, and

embrace the latter. This sad command went much against my inclination, but it went more against my duty to disobey it, therefore as soon as we had form'd all our resolutions, and setled our affairs and correspondency, I kist my Princesses hands, and having beg'd her to consider of the merit of my obedience, by the torment of it, that thereby I might find my consolation in my very sufferings, I took my leave, and going out of the Palace, I met my faithful Philanax, to whom I made my self known, and whose joy at it, had like to have been as prejudicial to me, as if it had been treachery; but finding his error, he immediately repair'd it: and after he had told me, that Lindesia with all her Family was remov'd to Thospia (Anexander's Government) the place too, where he had found both his sickness and his health; and that I had commanded him silently, and with some Jewels to follow me to Artemita, without any disaster next morning by Sun-rise I ar∣riv'd there, where the generous Governor made me a reception, in which I read both his satisfaction and heart. The Night following Philanax came to me, and acquainted me, that what I knew of in design, was turn'd into action. This true Alarm made me think my immediate repair to the King and Anexander requisite; and whil'st I was fitting my self for my intended journey, Phanasder sent some Troops of Horse to beat the wayes, who did too, a Party of the revolted, leaving 100 on the place, and presenting him with half as many Prisoners; from some of which, we learn'd that a Post was intercepted with a Packet for the King, and that Crassolis's eldest Son was kill'd in a quarrel, an hour before they were come out of Artaxata; we immediately concluded, that the former was the cause of the latter, and that Tygranes and Palisdes declin'd the forms of Justice for the Sons pu∣nishment, lest it might have incens'd, and appear'd a cruelty to the Father. My Equipage was no sooner form'd, than I took leave of Phanasder, who was extremely pressing to have been my Convoy, which I absolutely decli∣ned, since it might lose a Province, I was confident his care and presence would preserve; I besought him too, to be very vigilant for intelligence, to communicate to me what he learn'd, and to raise what Forces his power and credit would maintain. This Phanasder faithfully promis'd, and ha∣ving conducted me with 500 Horse to the Confines of his Government, we there parted; but because I found that to Travel with all my company, would take up too much time, I commanded them to follow me by easie journies, and only taking Philanax with me, I continu'd mine, which was indeed so long and troublesome, that the next evening, to refresh our hor∣ses and selves, we quitted the High-way, to gain a Wood not far from it, (for we durst not enter into any Towns, lest they might have become our Pri∣sons.) We had not been an hour in this wild Inn, when Philanax (whose turn 'twas to watch whil'st I did sleep) came and interrupted mine with the most dejected and confus'd look that horror and amazent was capable to put on, and told me, Alas Sir, I fear we are for ever ruin'd, and that the gods have forsaken virtue, to take part with vice. This sad Introduction, and his sadder countenance, made me start up, and impatiently enquire, whether too ••ittle rest, and too much travel, had not made him frantick? Ah Sir! (he reply'd with a deep sigh) would I were, for that would appear a less misfortune both to you, and me, than what has created in you that belief: for as you were taking your rest, a sad voice in a neighbouring Thicket reach'd my ears, and invited me to discover the unfortunate utterer of it; but I was no sooner approach'd near enough to satisfie my curiosity, than alas I found it was Artabazus, tearing his hair, and by a thousand other ex∣travagant cruelties, seeming to take part with fortune, by contributing to

his own misery. Oh gods! (Philanax I reply'd) what is it that thou tellest me? That (said he) whose truth your sight may convince you of, if you will silently steal wheremine receiv'd so fatal an intelligence, Come (said I Philanax) I will go and satisfie my doubts, though I believe the clearing of them, will be a greater trouble than they themselves are; but canst thou not (I continu'd) judge at the cause of this unexpected change? Yes Sir, (he reply'd) and I am much mistaken, if it be not of a nature which will be as great a grief unto you, as the effect it produces. We were by this time so near, that had he continu'd his discourse, he must have had more Auditors than one; and I had crept but a little further, when alas I did perceive my poor King in so sad and dejected a posture, and so many tears running from his eyes, that the loss of my own, had been more tolera∣ble, than to have had them so employ'd; I had not the patience to look up∣on his sufferings, and not offer them my consolation and assistance, which rising up to perform, the noise I made was so near, and so sudden, that the unfortunate Artahazus believing he was surpriz'd, covering his face with his Cloak, he cry'd out, Strike, oh strike, for I am reduc'd to so much mise∣ry, that mine is uncapable of accession, but by permitting me to live, and continue in it.

The gods forbid (I reply'd, prostrating my self at his feet, and embra∣cing his knees) that ever I should ease my Princes Afflictions by so crimi∣nal a Cure; No (Sir) they have doubtless sent me hither to offer you towards that duty (but in a nobler way) my Sword, which if it proves fruitless, I will then employ it rather to follow your Fate, than act it. These words and actions were as strange to Artabazus, as the cause that render'd them necessary was to me; and at length fancying he knew my voice, by degrees he unseal'd his eyes to be resolv'd, and no sooner was, than going back two or three steps, he cry'd out, 'Tis Artavasdes! 'Tis Artavasdes! Yes Sir (said I) 'tis he, who did not he value his life out of a belief that it might be serviceable to you, would blaspheme the gods for having so long preserv'd it, to shew him his King as much forsaken of his Subjects, as of Fortune. I fear Artavasdes, (he reply'd) I fear thou wilt repent thy kindness, when thou shalt learn what has reduc'd me to need and invite it; for know but two dayes since, I not only contemn'd thy Fathers advice in not listening to a Treaty with the perfidious Zenaxtus, but upon Hostages, sent even him into Nicopolis to conclude it; and relying on the faith of that Traytor, against Anexander's prayers and intelligence, I kept so care∣less a Guard in the Camp, that in a night as black as his action, he surpriz'd his own Hostages, cut thy Fathers victorious Army in pieces, I fear himself too; and all the benefit I receiv'd from the fidelity and courage of my Guards, was the time only with one of them, to flie where Fortune and the gods did lead me, which was to this Wood, where inforc'd by hunger, I sent the only companion of my misery to the next Town, who last night brought me some refreshment, but accompany'd with news, that after it, the want of relief had been no misfortune; for alas he told me, that Tygranes was at liberty; that he had seized upon Artaxata, declar'd himself King, and Partizan of the Rebels; that he had imprison'd the faithful Crassolis, kill'd his Son for sending me intelligence, and hath promis'd Altezeera to Palisdes, whose Nuptials in five dayes are to be celebrated. This morning I sent him again for further intelligence, and to procure some Horses, both ours being dead by the violence of our Travel; the faithful Guard was already at the extremity of the Wood, when his care of my safety made

him come back and assure me, if he were not return'd at a time he limited, I might conclude he was either killed, or taken, and that therefore I should remove my self to some other concealment; this time is an hour since eflux'd, so that when you came to offer me your assistance for preserving my life, I believ'd it was some-body that was come to afford me his, by easing me of it: Though I will not (continu'd Artavasdes) give you so low a character of my grief, as to endeavor to describe it, yet I must tell you, that my constancy, which was firm enough not to sink under the bur∣den of my Kings, my Countries, and my Fathers ruine, was too weak to un∣dergo the thought of Altezeera's, which had so sad an operation on me, that my misery appearing more transcendent than my Princes, for awhile he suspended the sad reflections on his own, to consider mine; but after that through pity, or goodness, he had given me leave by his silence to ut∣ter a throng of sighs and complaints, he told me, Consider Artavasdes what my griefs are, when thine have so strange an influence; those that afflict thee, are thy misfortunes; those that do me, are my faults; thou hast that consolation, that the gods have made thee miserable; I have that tor∣ment, that I made my self so, and consequently must consider the cause of my misfortune as great a one, as the effect. Alas Sir! (I reply'd) that which you alledge for an Argument to console me, is an aggravation of my misfortunes; for the Actions of the gods are more just than those of men, and they having inflicted mine, 'tis a more pregnant testimony I have meri∣ted them, than that you have those you have drawn upon your self; when I consider the wayes how mine are impos'd, I cannot hope they will end, since that expectation must be grounded on no less an impossibility than the justice of the gods; but the wayes in which yours are inflicted, carry their comfort with them, for had you been guilty, you should not have been your own Punisher; and not being so, you cannot doubt of your relief, but by injuring the highest powers as much as your hopes. Were there (said Artabazus) but as much truth as art in this Argument, I might be flatter'd into a belief, that I am as innocent as miserable; but when the gods make us become our own executioners, 'tis so much a mark of being guilty, that then to doubt it, is to have a higher title to our punishment. Yet (I reply'd) we seldom see, that Humane Justice (which is a Copy of' the Divine) does execute a Criminal by a Criminal: But Sir (I continu'd) let us not contribute to our own misfortunes, by so long disputing whose are the greatest, rather let us seek out a retiring, since by what you have told me, I fear this will prove no safe one. Alas! (the King answer'd) that we should flie, is not more requisite than it is impossible, since for ought I see, you are as destitute of Horses as I am. No Sir (I reply'd) I have two, not far from hence, which we will make use of; as for Philanax, I know he would lose, much more hazard his life, to preserve his Kings. Yes (said that faithful servant) 'tis my inclination, as much as duty; and next the spending of it in your service, the best fortune it can aspire unto, is, to lose it in it. Artabazus embrac'd him for his Loyalty, and gave him assuran∣ces, that if ever he return'd to his former fortune, he would build his in so plentiful a way, that he should acknowledge he had found his interest in his duty. Then turning to me, he said, But now Artavasdes we are fitted for our journey, whither shall we direct it? Thospia, which is the only honest and secure retreat I can rely on, has a way to it as hazardous as continuing here.

Ah Sir (I reply'd) why does your memory or suspitions, do the gallant Go∣vernor of Artemita, & the Province belonging to it, so much wrong? you will

find, that could he rejoyce in any of your misfortunes, he would in this, which will afford him so ample an evincement of his Affection and Loyal∣ty. 'Twas (said Artabazus) neither my memory nor suspitions, but (I fear) my reason that made me not look on Phanasder with the same faith that you do; for Crassolis, whose judgment if forming opinions is as great as his honesty in communicating them to me, has given me so bad, and per∣haps so just a character of him, that I should as soon put my self in Zenax∣tus's hands, as his. Oh gods! (I cry'd out) is it possible that Crassolis could so much bewitch your reason, as to make you consider your servants as your enemies, and they as your friends? Believe me (Sir) I will make that dissembler appear what he is, in the wo••st extreme, as Phanasder will shew himself in the best, with whom you shall find a Sanctuary as inviola∣ble as his faith, and for which I do engage you both mine and my life Upon your score (Artabazus reply'd) I will venture what I would not on my own, neither would I give my retiring to Phanasder that name, were I as confident of his Loyalty, as of his that made me suspect it. Sir, (said I, going to our Horses) this is a time fitter to flie from a Traytor, than prove one; but I will be contented to wear that name, if I do not evince that Crassolis does it already. Then commanding Philanax to go meet the rest of my servants, and return with them to Artemita, (which afterwards he did through many dangers, and then brought us word how the faithful Governor was put to death, in torments as great as his fidelity, for not dis∣covering to the Rebels where the King was conceal'd.) Artabazus and I, by very unfrequented wayes, and by as great diligence as good fortune, in three dayes arrived there also; but never was there a more melancholy and silent journey: for after I had acquainted my King with all my Adventures since my imprisonment, his griefs were so obliging, that they gave me the liberty without interruption of entertaining my own; where to find a remedy for them appear'd as difficult, as the torment which thereby I in∣cur'd. We had not been an hour in Phanasder's Government, when he (who was gone to beat up one of the Enemies quarters) return'd with success, and presented Artabazus with the Keys of Artemita, and with the lives of 200 of his Enemies. I cannot express with what assiduousness and zeal he served his Prince; you may learn them better by their effects than description, which were, that they wholly converted Artabazus's suspiti∣ons into as great a confidence, and made him acknowledge he had injur'd the best of his Subjects, when he thought Phanasder was not so, who ha∣ving first resign'd his own magnificent house to the King, receiv'd the ho∣nour of his orders, and doubled his care and guards, came to visit and ac∣quaint me, that by a Prisoner of quality that day taken, he was assur'd, that to extinguish all difficulties between Zenaxtus Partisans and Tygranes, the latter had engag'd himself within two days to give Altezeera to Palisdes; who either to satisfie his ambition, his passion, or his doubts, commanded all his Party to keep their houses, till he were in possession of what might in∣vite them with honour and safety to take the field. I am then (I cryed out) a creature as far above being capable of more misery, as of relief. Sir (said Phanasder) I would not have told you so fatal an intelligence, had not my hopes of relieving your sorrow been as great, as the certainty that this would create it. Alas! generous Friend (I reply'd) my rea∣son cannot so much yield to hope, as to afford me the latter with the former: Do not I know Altezeera is in a place as strong by Numbers, as by Art and Nature? Do not I see my self void of Forces, and of all things tending towards her Relief, but my desires of attempting it?

Do not therefore endeavor to silence my despair, since 'tis as impossible a Task, as to remove what creates it. At least (said Phanasder) let me acquaint you with what I design, to prevent Altezeera's loss, which I know will be accompany'd by yours.

Yes, yes, Phanasder, (I reply'd) I invoke the gods to punish me with a higher affliction (were it possible) than the losing that fair Princess, if, in the same minute I hear she is in Palisdes's Arms, I do not cast my self into those of death. That (said Phanasder) which I have to propound, is of a quality, that you may dye acting your revenge, if you cannot reach your hopes, and be certain not to survive your felicity when you have lost it. Ah Friend (said I embracing him) this is something worthy Phanas∣der, and my attention. I believe (said he) when I have told it you, you will esteem it too worthy your hopes: This Night (he continu'd) I shall have here a thousand select Horse, and as many Foot, drawn out of the ge∣neral Garisons of this Province; I can take from Artemita 500 Horse, and as many Foot, without endangering the place, or Artabazus's safety; these numbers being too few to storm Artaxata, we must supply their want with Art; to effect which, to morrow Night (which is the Eve of the intend∣ed Nuptials) we will march during the obscurity, by unfrequented ways to Artaxata, and under some Ruines and Banks of Artaxis, we may conve∣niently lodge a greater Body than ours; at the first opening of the gates, I will send in at several Ports (to avoid suspition) 200 of the valiantest and youngest Soldiers in womens cloaths, but with weapons under their gowns, who passing for Villagers come to see the Solemnities, may, by de∣grees, draw towards the gate next to us, seize upon it, and give us entrance; which if once we have, we deserve to lose our hopes, if we do not convert them into certainties. I was infinitely satisfi'd with so probable a way of relieving my Princess, and so certain a way of death if that fail'd. But whil'st we were making and answering all Objections in our design, an Offi∣cer came and advertis'd his Governor, that all those Forces he had sent for were near the City, and expected his commands; this joyful intelligence separated us, he to dispose of those Troops, and I to acquaint Artabazus how we intended to employ them. I found him somewhat startled at the greatness of the hazard and attempt, but when I had told him that our dis∣ease was too desperate to refuse any cure; that as we had lost our selves by a deep security, so we must endeavor our restauration by as high a bold∣ness; that we could but lose 3000 men, and that we might recover half a Kingdom, which at least follow'd the fate of Artaxata, Tygranes, and Pa∣lisdes, he at last gave us his leave, and his prayers. The next Night all things being (by Phanasdes care) in an exact readiness, we began our march, and by continuing it without any intermission or encounter, an hour before day we came and lodg'd our selves behind those Banks and Ruines, and having sent our young Villagers scattering to the several Ports, they were no sooner open'd, than without any examination or suspition, they all enter'd, and about half an hour after, by a successful resolution, cut off as great a number as their own, which compos'd the guard of the East gate, and having given the agreed-on signal, Phanasder with 500 Horse, ran with full speed to the assistance of his Amazon's, who, for all his expe∣dition, were, before he join'd them, deceas'd above 50. I cannot express with what ravishment I follow'd with all the rest of our little Army, nor with what fury we trampled over all those that oppos'd our passage to the Temple, whither, I was told (by a Prisoner) Tygranes (immediately before the Alarm) had lead the Princess Altezeera, who I was greedily am∣bitious

to relieve, lest I might lose the invitation and reward of my at∣tempt. I therefore beg'd Phanasder to pardon the impatiency of a Lover, and to oppose our Enemies, whil'st I was going to relieve our Friends. That generous man conjur'd me to make haste, left he might miss of victo∣ry, by missing me; I had not leisure to answer so flattering a Compliment, for I went directly with 500 Gentlemen, to the dwelling of the gods, where I was necessitated to sacrifice unto them near 1000 Soldiers that op∣pos'd my entry, and where the reward of that victory was great, though the victory itself were not; for by it I possest the fair Altezeera, who I found abandon'd by Tygranes, and her design'd Husband, and with whom I left all those to secure her liberty, who had obtain'd it, being hastily called away to assist Phanasder, whom I join'd in the great field before the Royal Palace, ready to receive the charge of 3000 Horse and Foot led by Tygra∣nes and Palisdes. I will pass over the Accidents in this little Battel, to tell you the event of it, which was an entire victory on the justest side, and which shew'd that Fortune had no hand in it: Palisdes found his Fate on that Sword on which his father and brother had found theirs, but the Prince Tygranes by flight avoided his, though in this Action he manifested so much courage, that had his duty been as great, he had not given testi∣monies of it in a way which chang'd that virtue into a crime. With the winning this little Battel we won Artaxata, which I left to his care that had conquer'd it, and went to my Princess, who receiv'd me with such passio∣nate praises, that I found in them a higher reward, than in having been suc∣cessful; but observing that her joy or ignorance, made her attribute the entire glory to him that had but the least share in it, I let her know, that 'twas not only Phanasder that had acted her release, but design'd it too; that for my particular, my grief for her captivity had been so large, that I could do nothing but deplore it; and that it had not been so transcen∣dent as to have made me decline the thought of her relief, had not the thought of the impossibility of it render'd it so. Whatsoever you tell me (said Altezeera) I will call you my Restorer, and I believe Phanasder will neither envy nor deny you that Title; but believe me (she continu'd) though you had not reliev'd Altezeera, your Rival had not possest her, but my evasion only was a trouble to me, because the way which conduc'd to my not being Palisdes's, had render'd me eternally uncapable of being Artavasdes's. Thereupon she shew'd me a glittering steel, which I can tru∣ly say struck me with more fear than all of the same metal I had seen that day in my Enemies hands; which my Princess observing, she told me, what Artavasdes! does a demonstration of my Affection fright you? And had you rather I should be unconstant, than dead? Yes Madam (I reply'd) for I had rather dye, than you should. But (said Altezeera) had you rather have me live in vice, than dye in innocency? when too that vice, would render me as unworthy, as undesirous to live.

Ah Madam (I reply'd) let us (I beseech you) break off this discourse, left perhaps the evincement how much I love you, might induce you to sus∣pect I do not, You may (said Altezeera smiling) impose what Laws you please, where you have made your Conquest, which I will obey, lest you might think it not so entire as it is. We had in the Temple some discour∣ses of this nature, which at length were interrupted by the generous Pha∣nasder, who came to kiss the Princes••es hand, and to tell her, that now she had no more enemies in Artaxata, than those which had lost their lives for having been so.

Have you then (said to Phanasder, after Altezeera had receiv'd him with a respect worthy his services and virtue) given Crassolis the reward of his infidelity? No Sir (he answer'd) Crassolis shall be (if you please) re∣serv'd for Artabazus's sentence, which pronounc'd from that mouth, will be more regular, and perhaps more sensible, we are too much his Enemies to be his Judges: But (he continu'd) when I spoke of the Princesses Ene∣mies, I only intended those in Arms. I believe (said I) though Crassolis does more merit the name of Enemy, than any that have been in Arms; yet we shall find it a more difficult task to make the King think him his, than we had this day to conquer all ours. If he does not (Phanasder an∣swer'd) he will find his punishment in his fault; but were I of your faith, I would immediately be just to Artabazus and Crassolis, by having the latter executed. No Phanasder (I reply'd) I beseech you leave off that thought, for if we impos'd his death, we might bring his guilt to be doubted, by the way in which it is punish'd.

I tell you this (said Artavasdes) the more particularly, that you might see how near I was to have avoided all my future miseries, and how I my self contributed to the preservation of him, which caus'd them; for this Inchanter Crassolis, made himself appear as innocent to Artabazus, as he did faulty to us; nay, the loss of that life which discover'd his Treason, he made a successful argument of his innocency, and thereby obtain'd a pow∣er, whose effects I shall eternally deplore with as much cause as violence: but whether (continu'd Artavasdes, interrupting himself) does the re∣flection on that Traytor transport me? I must beg your pardon for a fault, which I believe you will excuse when you know the cause; and the sooner to acquaint you with it, I will return to the fair Altezeera, who I left in the Temple, and who merited one with more reason (perhaps) than the Dei∣ty to whom that was consecrated. She too was so merciful to Crassolis, as to think it lust to have his King only his Judge. Her opinion was our resolu∣tion, which we had no sooner elected, than we return'd to the Palace, and meeting by the way Palisdes's Body carrying to the Grave, it had the no∣ble Solemnity of Altezeera's tears, which afforded him a fe••••city in death, better than his life had merited; but it may be she shed those for his crimes, and not his fall. Phanasder and I having waited on Altezeera to her Apart∣ment, withdrew our selves, to make our dispatches to the King, who in few dayes came to his old residence, and new conquest, where he receiv'd Crassolis into his former favor, who made use of it according to his former practice. You do perhaps, think it strange, that I found Altezeera so early in the Temple, but I believe you will no longer, when I acquaint you, 'tis the Armenian custom for the Bride to employ half the day of the Nuptials in Prayers, and Divine Solemnities, to render the gods propitious to the marriage. Her first thus happily prevented, I was a thousand times ready to implore her permission to beg her of her brother, and when I had even supprest my fears, and taken up a resolution for so transcendent a request, I was diverted from it, by the certain intelligence that Zenaxtus with an Ar∣my of 60000 men, was marching towards Artaxata, to recover or lose him∣self before it; and that the Prince Tygranes was gone to Pompey the Great, (the Successor to Lucullus's Army and Fortune) and by his prayers, and assurances of a considerable Party's joining with him, induced that great Captain for a time to suspend his prosecuting Mithridates, to invade Arme∣nia, towards which the Roman Eagles were flying with great celerity. Ar∣tabazus in this great exigency gave me the command of all the Armenian Militia, and opening the publick Treasures, left them to my dispose, with

which I immediately levy'd an Army to oppose Zenaxtus, great enough to raise my hopes of relieving Anexander (if living) or of revenging him (if dead.) I gave the gallant Phanasder Commission and Money to levy another, to secure and defend the Passes on the Banks of Araxis, where then Pompey was Campt, till I had decided the dispute with Zenaxtus, who was the nearest and the most pressing Enemy. To be brief, Phanasder, who reign'd more in Artabazus's Subjects, than he himself did over them, so sud∣denly form'd his Forces, that before I thought he had sent his inferior Of∣ficers to have rais'd them, I learnt they were all ready, and possest of the Armenian Frontiers. For my particular, with 6000 Horse, and 24000 Foot, I advanc'd to meet the Enemy, he relying on his numbers, and I on my quarrel, and the virtue of those that fought in it, we soon came to a Battel, which lasted till night did the office of Trumpets, and founded a retreat. The advantages and the animosities of both Armies were so resembling, that we soon found what call'd the Soldiers to rest, was esteem'd by them an injury, which the next morning was again evinc'd; for they could no sooner see their enemies, than they went to destroy them; and though we omitted nothing of either side which might end the dispute before the day did, yet I believe this had been the perfect Copy of the Precedent, if an Accident, as strange as the Battel, had not put a period to it. The Scene of this long Tragedy was at the foot of a great Hill, which in our hottest dispute we saw cover'd with a great cloud of Cavalry, that so terrifi'd both Armies, (not knowing to which of them the release was intended) that whatever Zenaxtus and I could do, all our Soldiers at first suspended their Swords as their thoughts, then sheath'd them, and by degrees return'd un∣der their Ensigns, thinking all dispute against so powerful a supply, as vain as dangerous. I was enrag'd to find that the faith of my Army, for I was confident those Forces came to ravish, not contribute to my Victory; and in that belief I prest my Army to return to the charge, that if they were friends, they might see and have no share in our success; and if not, to fight them before they were join'd. But all my persuasions being fruitless, I was taking some resolution of an honourable death alone, since I was deny'd it in company, but those designs instantly vanish'd, and gave place to joyes as pleasing, by those new Troops falling like a storm on Zenaxtus's Army, who by it, having lost their hopes, soon after did their courages and lives. My Army contributing nothing to the Conquerors glory, but the not par∣ticipating in it. Zenaxtus's death accompany'd by 40000 of his compani∣ons, was the end and expiation of their Rebellion, all the rest having been kill'd the precedent way, and taken in this. After the execution was ended, I rid up and down the Field, to learn from whom Armenia and Artava'des had receiv'd so signal an obligation; but I soon found the sight of my Preserver, was a greater blessing than the preservation it self, for 'twas the generous Anexander; I flung my self instantly at his feet, acknowledg'd him twice my Father, in giving me my life, and in preserving it, and by a million of other demonstrations, endeavor'd to manifest a contentment as great exteriorly, as it was in my heart. That generous Princes extasies were not inferior to mine, which being somewhat lessen'd, to satisfie my impati∣ent longing, in knowing from what kind god he deriv'd his deliverance, he told me, after I was fallen into Zenaxtus's hands, by his treachery to Ar∣tabazus, which might as easily have been prevented by the King, as it was foreseen by me; the persidious Traytor had immediately executed me, but that he thought a death without lingring, rather a mercy than a revenge, therefore I was kept alive, till some torment as great as his cruelty, or as he

merited, was found out, which being at length, I was carried out of a Prison that I believe could not be an inferior one to that he design'd me; and as the Tormentors were beginning their office, (my Judge being one of the Spectators of his sentence) a Post arriv'd, who presented him a Packet, which (as I after learn'd) brought the news of your success against Artaxata, the death of Palisdes, the flight of Tygranes, and your being made Generalissimo of all Armenia, this which in all probability should have increas'd his fury, suspended the execution of it, and return'd me to a less troublesom Prison; but though he gave out, that he preserv'd me only, to make you (whom he was then going against) participate in my sufferings, by imposing them in your sight; yet I rather believe my re∣prieve proceeded from his apprehension of a turn in fortune, and that his would be desperate, if yours were successful, did he extinguish his fury in my blood: whatever was the cause I cannot determine, yet he carry'd me Prisoner in his Army; but as the gods ordain'd it, Zenaxtus committed the care of my restraint, to a Gentleman who was engag'd in his Cause, more by his relation to those in it, than his approbation of it. This generous Keeper, the first night of our march, allow'd me half his Bed, and taking the opportunity of our being without Auditors, by a handsom discourse, assur'd me of his pity for my miseries, and of his intentions to relieve them; that my patience in enduring my Torments, was of a quality that con∣vinc'd him, it proceeded not from my Fortitude, but my Innocence, and concluded that he was thereby invited to be of a Cause, which gave the Defenders of it power to conquer their Enemies by their very sufferings. This proceeding was so free, and so like a Gentleman, that to have doubted it, had been a Crime, as great as his Virtue, I therefore gave him assurances of my believing his professions, and that if he would decline Zenaxtus for Artabazus, he should thereby better his Fortunes, as much as his Cause.

Sir, (said he) I will take up Arms to evince that the Quarrel I approve I will defend, but I will accept of no Command but an inferior one to what I have here, left those that are Enemies to Truth, and to me, should alledge my interest was my conversion. In brief (said Anexander) the next night, he so judiciously order'd our Escape, that leaving nothing to Fortune, he left us nothing to fear, so that without any encounter or interruption, we reach'd in three dayes to Thospia, from whence my Deliverer sent Zenax∣tus the cause of his being there, and where, by Lindesia's power and care, I found that Body of Horse ready for service, with which I march'd after Zenaxtus, but could not overtake his Army, till you had so weaken'd and harrast it, that I came rather to act an Execution than a Fight; and instead of helping Artavasdes to a Victory, I have rob'd him of one. This flat∣tery was so palpable, that I did not esteem it fit by a Reply to evince it one, but beg'd him by his permission, to have the honour to be known to his generous Preserver. He merits it (said my Father) for I have seen him this day do more against Zenaxtus, than when he gave Anexander his liber∣ty; we went thereupon towards those new and victorious Troops to find him, but alas we found him too soon, for before we had gone half the way, Anexander perceiv'd him pale and cold amongst the dead: oh gods! what did not my poor father at the fight of that fatal object? But let us pass over those grateful extravagancies, though they abundantly manifested how precious to him the life was, whose death was so passionately deplo∣red. The next morning after our Victory, by a general Muster, we learn'd what it cost us, which was 10000 men lost, and as many unserviceable for the present; with this Army we return'd to Artaxata, whose littleness made

some believe we had mist of success, and others, that we had dearly bought and deserv'd it. Artabazus (when my father kist his hand) protested he had brought him two things he most ambitiously desir'd, Victory, and Anexander; that he was as much oblig'd to him for the latter as the former; and if he were capable of any grief whil'st he lookt upon him, it proceed∣ed from a reflection of what his Credulity had so much hazarded, and for his having neglected an advice where the punishment of it could not have been greater than the fault. My reception was much resembling my fa∣thers, so were my acknowledgments, which finisht, I presented the King my Commission, which Anexander's Liberty made my Justice and my Duty to restore. But (said Artavasdes) why do I amuse my self to give you my story by retail? 'Tis enough you know I kept my Commission, because my King would not receive, nor my father accept it, and by that retension I found the duty of it, and my promise oblig'd me to join with Phanasder, whose courage all this while had kept the Romans from possessing what they daily saw, there being only the River Araxis betwixt both Armies. But to abuse your patience as little as I can without disobedience, I will omit my Princesses joyes at my late return and success, and her contrary paf∣sions for my then separation, which too appear the more unfortunate, since the cause of it was to oppose the Conquerors of the world (for that title the Romans gave themselves, and their performances did almost confirm) with Forces too that were so diminisht by a former success, that they could hardly expect any in the future: But what consol'd me in this Expedition, was, if I were successful, my joyes would be no longer protracted; and if I were not, I resolv'd my life should not. 'Twas with these thoughts and resolutions I advanced towards Phanasder, whose numbers I found as much diminisht by sickness, as they could have been by a defeat, so that the con∣junction of both our Forces did not compose as great a Body as mine did before Zenaxtus's defeat, or his before the mortality; but that which cau∣sed our admiration was, that though Pompey knew our weakness, yet he made no advantage of it by any attempts, but alas! our admiration was cured by our grief; for not many dayes after, Artabazus (with a small Train) came to the Camp, and told me, that all the higher Armenia was in a general flame, which he had sent my father to quench, with Forces risen in haste, and that his intelligence of Artaxata's intended revolt upon the least misfortune, had made him esteem my weak Army a securer Sanctuary than that City. Oh gods! Sir, (I hastily cry'd out) if Artaxata be no Sanctuary for Artabazus, how could he esteem it one for Altezeera? I have (said Artabazus) neither esteem'd it one for Altezeera, neither left her there, she is gone to Thospia with Anexander, who, were he not concern'd in her safety for his Kings sake, I believe he would be for his Sons. Those words made me blush, and the former made me know that Pompey had lay'n quiet, till this new combustion might (by a diversion) facilitate his entry. That same day therefore (because we hourly expected the Romans advance) a Council was call'd, in which Crassolis (who attended the King) assisted, his opinion was to determine all by Battel, not by Treaty, since the latter could not possibly cement the fractions, but by the Kings yield∣ing much to the Prince, which concessions would be a dangerous President; would be termed by the Armenians a submission, and would invite Tygra∣nes unto future Revolts by the first proving so successful, who being too reflected on as a Successor to the Crown, the multitude (which commonly consider their own benefit, and not the right) might in the future incline to him, who, according to the course of nature, was probably longest able

to reward or punish them; That a victory against the Romans, would be one too against the Rebels, who never had taken up Arms, had not they thought those of the Romans would have exempted them from making any use of their own, that the cause of the revolt being taken away, the effect of consequence would follow; and if the gods had decreed our ruine, 'twas more like Armenians to fall by the Sword, than by Submission, without which he durst (as he said) lose his life, if ever Pompey would treat: This advice Phanasder and I oppos'd, not only because 'twas his, (and conse∣quently we might think it the worst) but because too it was really so, and esteem'd so generally by all the Council, who concur'd in my reasons, which were, That if the revolted follow'd the fortune of the Romans, by having an external Peace, we should have an internal one also; That all the faith∣ful Armenian Militia were almost destroyed by Civil and Foreign Wars, by Successes, and by Mortalities; That not only the Rebels within, but the Romans, and Parthians without, were all pulling on her fate; That she had never more Enemies, and less power to resist them; That nothing but a Peace could avoid the former, and restore the latter; That it was better to yield something, than lose all; That time might procure a return of those concessions, or enable us to retake them; That by a present Peace we should (if there were in the future an occasion of War) make it, when the Romans (Tygranes's greatest help) would not be in a readiness to af∣ford him any; That by making a Peace, Artabazus would make Tygranes his Subject; but by a War, he would make him his equal, and perhaps his Superior; That thereby the Roman and Parthian Arms, which were ready to invade Armenia, would leave her in a quiet security, by being employ'd one against another; and that if a Peace were refus'd, after an offer of reasonable terms, we had thereby made the gods our friends, and invited them to punish an enemy who was guided by the rule of Power, and not of Justice. I know not whether Artabazus fear or judgment made him de∣clin Crassolis's advice to follow the Councels, but I know the next morn∣ing he sent a Herald to Pompey to offer a Parley, which he absolutely de∣clin'd, without Artabazus would submit himself as conquer'd, and to his mercy yield that part of Armenia on the East of Euphrates to Tygranes, and pay a yearly Homage for the residue to the Roman Empire. Though my resentment at so barbarous a message was great, yet it could not transcend my Kings fears, who valuing Pompey's power by his insolency, in apprehen∣sion of the former, told me, there was no way but to submit it unto the latter. Never, never Sir, (I cry'd out) shall Artabazus, whil'st I wear a Sword, unking himself, let the gods do it, if that misfortune be writ in the Book of Fate; and though I esteem'd it fit to Treat with the Romans, be∣cause their Army was the greater, yet now I am absolutely against it, their unjust and insolent demands having at least equal'd our Forces; 'tis more glorious to dyeat the head of 2000 Gentlemen, than to live with the Ti∣tle of a King without the power, and to let our succeeding Story's register, that Artabazus was the first that dismember'd his Kingdom, and the onely man that was conquer'd in it. The King esteem'd what I said to be fitter for his commendation than his practice, and the false Crassolis perceiving the Father was ready to give as much by Fear, as the Son could win by Battel, upon the second sitting of the Council, (which was to fix upon a positive Answer for Pompey) he was as absolutely for a Treaty, as at the first he had been for a War, and so proportion'd his Reasons to his Princes Apprehen∣sions, that he determin'd to put himself into the Roman mercy, when the Presidents of some Kings of the Gaules, and of the Africans, demonstrated

they had none. Phanasder and I, at this resolution, beg'd Artabazus's per∣mission for our selves and Anexander, to retire unto our Governments, that by seemingly becoming Rebels to his Authority, we might preserve some Forces to maintain and raise it in the future; but our request concerning our selves, found a resembling return to that we had made for our King, and 'twas no wonder he declin'd his Friends advantage, when he had al∣ready his own; but as the Assembly was upon the point of rising, a Trum∣pet from the Roman Camp came into ours, and sent me (in) a Letter from the Lieutenant-General of that Army; I was surpriz'd at the news of that name, for I knew Pompey had been without one since the death of Sil∣lanus; but opening and reading what was sent me, I found the Contents of it was, to desire a single meeting with me that day, and that the desirer of it was the generous Ventidius (a Patrician of Rome) with whom (du∣ring my residence there, and in Lucullus's Army) I had contracted an inti∣mate and passionate friendship: I cannot tell you my joy, to learn I had no small power with one Roman, that had so much with all the rest; I imme∣diately communicated this to Artabazus, beg'd his permission to wait upon my Friend, and that he would not permit any of the Council to be out of his fight till my return, left the discovery of his intended submission, might hinder my preventing it. The King having promis'd my desire, I dispatcht the Trumpet to Ventidius, and immediately follow'd him my self to a place assign'd upon the Banks of Araxis, where I found my generous Friend was already come, out of a confidence I would not fail his commands, which, (after a world of embraces, and new reiterations of an ancient Friendship) I desir'd to learn that I might obey them. I would not (said Ventidius) have given you this trouble but to serve you, and to evince our former confidence of one another is not diminish'd, or impair'd by absence or time, or by our now being of different Parties. I will acquaint you with that which shall abundantly perform it: Know then, that but two dayes since I came to Pompey's Army to be his Lieutenant-General, which Title I de∣rive from the favor of Iulius C••sar, who, if my affection deceive me not, you will see as famous for his power, as he is already for his courage and virtue; and though now he has the command of all Gaule, (one of the greatest and noblest Provinces in the world) and though against that war∣like Nation he has won more Victories than ever Alexander did against the effeminate Persians, yet I have seen him at the reading of that Grecians life, weep that his own has not been so victorious and active, when indeed, if he ought to have shed any tears, they should have been rather of joy, than a contrary passion, for Alexanders having been his foyle, and not his pattern; by this you may fancy what C••sar is like to aspire unto, when though al∣ready he has attain'd unto such a height of glory, he yet esteems himself scarce ascending; and lest Pompey (who he only thinks worthy the name of his Rival) should prove a successful one, C••sar has sent me to the second command of this Army, which he knows I have some interest in, it being•• compos'd (for the greater part) of Lucullus's.

But Pompey's Friends, who judge nothing but the Roman Empire can satisfie a mind as large, have sent Domitius to him, to let him know, that 'tis more for the interest of Rome, to make the Armenians their Friends, than their Subjects; That they apprehend C••sar's Ambition, Power and Fortune, will make them stand in need of more than Roman Arms, to maintain the Roman liberty; That besides those fears, they have contracted as great and as just ones, from the Virtue and success

of a Slave, which if the progress of his Actions prove as fortunate as the beginning, will soon make Italy the Scene of two contrary extremes; That therefore he should with all diligence disingage himself from those Eastern Wars, lest whilst he is increasing the Empire of Rome, another pos∣sess it. This (continu'd Ventidius) I had from Domitius, who has been my companion in my journey, and who esteeming me more a friend to Rome, than to Caesar, trusted me with this intelligence, which Pompey so ab∣solutely believes, that I being inform'd 'twas Artavasdes which commanded the Armenian Army, and the bad posture it was in, I took occasion this morning to let my General know, now the opportunity was offer'd of obli∣ging all Armenia to him, that his power might make them fear, but his mer∣cy love him; that by countenancing so unnatural a Son against his Father, the success of the Action would be blemish'd by the cause; that he which would be an enemy to him that gave him life, could hardly be a friend to one which gave him a Kingdom; since the power which could confer such a gift, will (by the knowledge of his own want of merit) keep him in perpetual fears and jealousies that it will reassume it; that his carriage to his father evinces, that those which most oblige him, ought most to appre∣hend him; and that the General of Armenia was so particularly known to me and my friend, that I durst engage my self as much for his gratitude if he were oblig'd, as for his induring all the miseries in the world, rather than incline to any conditions which might look like a submission. To which Pompey (who has set up his rest to win me) reply'd, I shall be rather in∣duc'd to grant Armenia what you desire, because their General is your friend, than out of a belief thereby to make that Kingdom a friend to me; therefore Ventidius, upon your own score I gave you a power (to conclude with them) as large as the Senate has given me, I have too but even now receiv'd an assurance which makes me think Tygranes fit for my revenge, (were he worthy of it;) For a Packet that he sent Zenaxtus before his defeat and death, came by a strange Accident into my hands, which (un∣cypher'd) discovers, his intention was to keep me here, to divert and di∣stract Artabazu's Forces, till Zenaxtus had subdu'd them, and then to per∣mit me no share in Armenia, but what I could purchase by my Sword; and though what I now tell you may seem to lesten my obligation, yet if you consider it rightly, it will raise the value of it; for if Tygranes had conti∣nu'd in innocency, I must have rewarded it with my Conquests, but his guilt will give the Romans what I shall win with their Arms. I will (con∣tinu'd Artavasdes) exempt you from the repetition of our discourses, to acquaint you with their conclusion, which was, that Artabazus the next day should visit Pompey, that he should pardon his Son as Pompey would because he was so, and that he should give the Roman Army 6000 Talents as a largess. That Pompey, on the other side, should salute him by the name of King of Armenia, Friend and Ally to the Roman Empire, that he should demand none of the Armenian Territories, but should restore him to the little Kingdom of Sophena which the Romans had formerly taken from his Crown.

After this result, the generous Ventidius return'd to the Roman Camp, and I to the Armenian, where I learn'd the King was still in Council; whither I went, and where as soon as I came, Artabazus with a timorous action came towards, and ask'd me, Well Artavasdes, what must I expect? Has Pompey rais'd his conditions, because I was so long a granting them?

No Sir (I reply'd) you are so far from parting with a share of your King dom, that by the generosity of Ventidius, I have gotten you another Thereupon I told him all we had concluded on, but the poor Prince was so incredulous, that even for a time, his good fortune afficted him as much as his ill, but when by many protestations I had remov'd all his doubts, he ran to embrace me, and was in such transports, that had we been igno∣rant what his fears had been, we might have read them in his joyes, ne∣ver so many Titles of gratitude were given to all men, as Artabazus gave me, the names of his Deliverer, Restorer, and Guardian-Angel, were the lowest of his irregularities. The next morning we put all things in a po∣sture to conduct him to the Roman Army, but truly we found ours so thin by the mortality, and by the absence of those which fled from it, that we could hardly form a Guard fit for a King, and hardly leave one fit for a Camp. As soon as we came to the Trench of the Romans, two Lictors, with Axes and Rods, came and advertis'd Artabazus he must light, for never any man rid in a Roman Camp; he obey'd this advertisement, and to repair his having offer'd an offence (which his ignorance of their Disci∣pline render'd none) as soon as he saw Ventidius, who attended him within the Gates, he presented him with his Sword, which Ventidius de∣clin'd with much humility, and pointing at me, told him, you owe (Sir) both it and your Crown to that Man. I was so asham'd at this submission, that I heard not then my Friends complement, who conducted Artabazus to Pompey, who came with much civility to salute him; but be∣cause my Prince's submissions were below his quality, I will pass them by, as unfit for my repetition, and tell you, that all which Ventidius and I had concluded, was ratify'd by Pompey to Artabazus, only the Roman Ge∣neral placing the Father on the right hand, and the Son on the left, desir'd the former to give the latter for his maintainance, the Kingdom of Sophena, which too, he said he ask'd, only to convince Tygranes, that they had both pardon'd him. This Artabazus willingly granted, and besides the 6000 Talents, gave the Roman Soldiers and Officers so great an additional gra∣tuity, that they found from his bounty, more than they could have ex∣pected from their Swords. Pompey too, for Ventidius's sake, plac'd on me many Civilities, of a nature, as generous as his own. But Artabazus had no sooner past the River Artaxis, than Pompey sent for Tygranes to let him know, before their parting, how great his faults had been, and the Mer∣cies which had pardon'd them, and to infuse into him some principles, which might in the future have made him acknowledge he had more ob∣lig'd him by by his Advice, than he could have done by his Sword. But that unfortunate Prince finding his designes reveal'd, and his hopes ruin'd, was so incens'd against Pompey (who he consider'd, as the Author of both) that he told his Messenger he would not come into a mans company, who for fear, or for 6000 Talents, had sold his Chest and Faith. Pompey inrag'd at so sharp, and so strange a replymade him a prisoner; this accession of mis∣fortune made Tygranes utter some words, that induc'd the Roman Gene∣ral to send him in that quality to Rome, there to be kept till his arrival, to be led in tryumph. Artabazus was soon advertis'd of this proceeding, with the impossibility of having it alter'd, in which he found, that Tygranes's want of duty which hitherto bad been his trouble, was now his consola∣tion, for my particular, I was so sensible of the Prince's sufferings, though in them I read the justice of them; that I became both to Pompey and Ven∣tidius an earnest (though a fruitless) Sollicitor. But whilst the Armenians

and Romans were celebrating their newfriendship on the Banks of Arraxis, there came advice both to Artabazus and Pompey, that Arsaces was alrea∣dy in person on those of Euphrates, with a vast Army, and had invaded the Roman Colonies in Syria, by his youngest Son Phraates. Pompey at this Alarm, by a personal visit, invites my King to joyn with the Roman Em∣pire in a League offensive and defensive, against the Parthians, and to conclude and ratify the conditions of it, that he would send a solemn Ambassy to the Senate. Artabazus joyfully embrac'd this overture, to re∣venge his affront (at the Battel of Miramnes) and to be united to a pow∣er, to which the world submitted; for my part, all the reluctancy I had, proceeded from being thereby involv'd in a War against my Preserver, and Restorer; but a publique duty yielding to a particular, I submitted to this League, with resolution, as well for gratitude as safety, to avoid the ge∣nerous Artabanes's Sword, and to employ my own as little as I could (with Loyalty) in a quarrel he thought worthy to act in, and defend; (Arta∣banes only by a smile took notice of his friend's flattery, who thus conti∣nu'd his discourse.) Whilst the Roman General was with Artabazus, there came an Express from Annexander to acquaint him, that by the assistance of Evaxes and Falintus, he had defeated one of the Rebel's Armies, in the higher Armenia, and that the other, learning their companions misfor∣tunes, and his new contracted friendship with the Romans, were come without Arms, and had submitted to his Mercy, which he besought Arta∣bazus might so act, as his subjects might find more safety (as well as hone∣sty) inreturning to their allegiance, than in casting it off. This request, in the joy of the success (and the necessity of Subjects Hearts, rather than Destructions) found a ready grant; and that the intended Embassy might have the greater appearance, Annexander was elected for the Ambassador, his Victories dispencing with his Absence, and rendring his Presence the more considerable at Rome; and though the League was but in agitati∣on, yet Pompey before his march into Syria, to convince Artabazus, how confident he was of its conclusion at Rome, and perhaps, to manifest, how little he apprehended Phraates, he left Afranius in Armenia, with Com∣mand, to unite his Legion with my Army, against Arsaces, for I was im∣mediatly sent with all the Forces already rais'd, to oppose his invasion. I cannot tell you, how infinitely I repin'd at Fortune, for creating new Wars upon conclusion of the old, and for raising almost as many difficul∣ties against the satisfaction of my flame, as in the object that gave it a be∣ing, there were Beauties and perfections: Annexander upon the Kingscom∣mands, left that Army, whose Swords had conquer'd one, and whose Fame had another, and was no sooner at Artaxata, than he was sent from thence to Rome, with Pompey's Letter to the Senate. His Equipage in that em∣ployment, was so magnificent, that many who judg'd of the King's State by the Subjects, concluded Armenia had been a Countrey fitter for the Con∣quest than Friendship of Rome, if the danger had not appear'd as great as the recompence. My Father having begun his journey, I advanc'd towards Ar∣saces with Afranius, in whose little Camp I saw a pattern of Discipline and Obedience, which made me no longer wonder at their success. I had that con∣solation too, that my way lay by Thospia, and that my Princess did my Army the houor of seeing it; whereby (but going to a battle) they receiv'd a no∣bler reward (except the repetition of the same) than they could have en∣joyed after a victory. This prophetical recompence rais'd both the Ge∣neral and his Soldiers resolutions, to act in Gratitude what they should

out of hope, and that which gave us no small one of obtaining a Victory, was the advertisement one of my spies brought me, that Artabanes was not in the Parthian Army. But the Euphrates being between that and the Armenian, for above three Moons we onely past the time in skirmishes, wherein our successes were so good, that perhaps they could not more enflame our desires, to decide all by a Battel, than they made Arsaces apprehensive of coming to that Tryal, who was not long after sent for by the Prince Phraates, being hotly alarm'd by the approach of Pompey, Orodes esteeming his youngest sons fears to be just, and thinking there was more honor to be won from Pompey than Artavasdes, left his eldest Son, the Prince Pacorus, General of that Army, against which I lay encamp'd, and with other Forces went to relieve Phraates, and oppose the Romans. And though Pacorus, three days after his Fathers departure, invited me to a Battel, which next to victory, was the best happiness I could desire in that War, yet I had no small reluctancy to employ my life against a Prince, from whom I had receiv'd it; but the ties of Loyalty to my King, and of Duty to his Commands, made me return him word, I would obey them, which too, was accompany'd with a passionate and true vow, that I had rather have drawn my Sword against my self, than him: That I could not expect his pardon did I not know, he did, the obligations which Subjects have to their Kings, and that all my consolation was, if con∣querd, I should increase his Glory, and if Conqueror, I should so employ my Fortune, as thereby evince, I was so long ungrateful, but only because I could not be otherwise. The next morning I drew my Army off the Banks of Euphrates, to give Pacorus liberty, without interruption, to pass over that Bridge of Boats he had made; and no sooner were the Parthians and Armenians ready to begin the Battel, than I made a Proclamation upon pain of death, none of mine should act Pacorus's, but that they should take as many prisoners as they could, without indangering the general safety, and then the signal being given, we began the charge; but the Parthean Army wanting Artabanes, wanted Victory, which the Armenians purchas'd at a bloudy rate; twice that day Pacorus singl'd me out, and twice that day I fled the Encounter, after I knew against whom I fought, though in our first meeting, my ignorance made me spill some Bloud, which when I knew from whom I drew it, I wish'd it had been my own. One hundred and five Ensignes, 6000 Common Soidiers, and 300 Offi∣cers (in which number Surena, Labienus and Vixores were) remain'd in our hands, as arguments of our success, all which the next morning I sent to Pacorus with a Letter, which begg'd him to believe the way in which I manifested my gratitude, was as great a trouble to me, as it could be to him. Two days after I caus'd all the Parthian and Armenian Bodies in one Funeral Fire to be burnt, and the next night Pacorus having done the same with his Bridge, march'd away, and left me the liberty of re∣turning to the fair Altezeera (a happiness greater than the glory of the success) with whom I found Artabazus, whose pardon I implor'd for having dispos'd of the effects of our Victory without his knowledge, and to his Enemies. But he seem'd to be angry at the request, not that I had offended him, but that I thought so. As soon as the importunate ce∣remonies of my Tryumph were ended, I went to my Prince's Apart∣ment, where I so represented the violence of my Passion, and the hope∣ful opportunity of now imploring her Brothers permission of ren∣dring it as happy as 'twas great, that my importunate Prayers extorted

a grant from his words, which her blushes and disorder acquainted me with before. Never, (generous Artabanes) never was there any thing greater, than my joy at this concession, but my fears and tremblings when I implor'd it. Oh gods! what did I not say to my Princess, that I could say no more? and what vowes did I not make, that my constancy should be as great as my felicity? the evening of this blessed day, as I was going to cast my self at my Kings Feet, and to implore a grant, which was as impos∣sible to be desir'd with too much humbleness, as to be receiv'd with too much extasie, I met a Gentleman sent from him for me, who I desir'd to ac∣quaint me, whether he knew the cause; he told me that he could not ima∣gine it, unless it were a Pacquet, which was then deliver'd him by an Ex∣press. I shall not (continu'd Artavasdes) be asham'd to tell you that I trembl'd, left this might be some new Alarm of going to the Field, and in that apprehension I came into the Kings Closet, where he had no soon∣er lockt the door, than he told me; I hope Artavasdes you are not ignorant, that if my resentments for your services are not as great as they themselves, yet at least they are as I am capable of: but that I may be oblig'd to your Reason, as well as to your Goodness, for so charitable an opinion, I have sent for you, to conjure you, without any Ceremonies, to name your re∣ward, which I shall be as pleas'd to confer on you, as you can be to receive, and if it be one which can satisfy your desert, I shall more value my pow∣er by that effect, than by any other. Artabazus having thus spoke, fix'd his Eyes upon me, and I mine on the ground, with so much confusion in my looks and gestures, that he read in my silence, what I was not able to ac∣quaint him by my words. Well Artavasdes (he continu'd) since you seem to give me your election, whether it proceeds from your modesty, or the merit of your performances, that leaves me but one way to recompence them; I must tell you, the former, and the latter, directs me to reward both by the gift of Altezeera, who, if I be not much mistaken, will find her own satisfaction in yours, and in my gratitude. Oh gods! (continu'd Artavasdes) you only know my transports at those ravishing words, which were no sooner spoke, than I prostrated my self at my Kings feet, embrac'd his knees and told him, ah Sir, I beseech you do not mention reward or gratitude, when you do the Princess Altezeera, nor so much wrong the blessing of your gift, as to term it a recompence, since it is so far above manifesting you are grateful, that by it I am render'd uncapable of ever being so. Great gods! (I cry'd out) lessen my felicity by some aff••iction, left I do not long possess it. Yes Artavasdes (my King reply'd) you shall possess Altezeera, your not demanding her, increases your Title to her; and I find my self as much ty'd to this gratitude by your humility, as by your services; but to limit that joy, whose greatness you apprehend, may destroy it self, and to shew how soon the gods have granted what you so earnestly implor'd, you must a while suspend the fruition, to act that which may induce my Kingdom, to esteem me as just in conferring my Sister on you, as I do therein esteem my self. Thereupon (commanding me to rise) he gave me a Letter from Annexander to him, and another directed to me, both which I read, and found they contain'd, that he had been receiv'd at Rome with a magnificer 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which testify'd his welcome; but in the highest of his ne∣gotiating, the gods had struck him with a lingring sickness, which most of the Physitians assur'd him, would be astedious as irrecoverable; that therefore he implor'd, that I might be sent (if Armenia were in peace) with Power and Instructions to perfect the Treaty, in case he ended his life before it, and commanded me to do him the last office of closing his Eyes, or if I

came too late for that duty, yet at least, to celebrate his Funerals. Consi∣der (I beseech you) how sad an influence this unfortunate Pacquet had on me, and how in one moment the gods convinc'd me, that neither joy nor grief could destroy me, I should for ever have acknowledg'd the confining my felicity, by 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the qualifying my sorrow by hap∣piness, had been their providence, if since, I had not found it their cruel∣ty, for they made me able to conquer those extreams, but to preserve me for greater; what need I tell you more, than that my duty to my King, my Countrey, and my Father, made me pass an engagement to undertake the voyage, and to mittigate the cause and trouble of it: Artabazus by many assurances, accompany'd by as many vows, told me at my return, I should be establish'd in a felicity, which he long'd as much to confer on me, as I could to possess it. I omitted to acquaint you, there was another Letter to Lindesia, from Anexander, who receiv'd the news of her Husbands sick∣ness, with a constancy that render'd her unworthy the affliction; but as soon as I retir'd from Artabazus, I went to my Princess, who perceiving so high a sadness in my Face, was so much a friend to my passion, as to believe nothing but a misfortune in it, could have created so large a one; and in that Faith ask'd me, whether he Brother had been so unjust as to esteem his allyance a greater reward than my services merited? I was in∣finitely asham'd at this question, and that I should be capable of so tran∣scendent a melancholly (having my felicity granted) as to induce my Princess to suspect it had been deny'd. In this perplexity I continu'd in a si∣lence, that increas'd her doubts, but as soon as I was able to suppress them, I did, by acquainting her what had past betwixt my King and me, and how that I was never so near my Blessing, and yet never was so like to be di∣stant from it. This separation, and Anexander's danger, the fair Altezeera concluded, was very sensible, since the joy of Artabazus Grant could not intirely console me, which induc'd her to suspend her own aff••ictions (for Anexander's condition) to lessen mine, that by the knowledge of hers could not but receive a large accession. But when she came to discourse upon my absence, and to bring reasons to qualify the hardness of it, alas! they were so far from bearing that name, or from producing that effect, that her esteeming they were so, or that they could be thought so by me, created a greater misery, than she endeavour'd to silence. But the necessi∣ty of my journey to Rome, either as a Son, or as a Subject, made me more firm in my resolution of undertaking it, than Altezeera's not ap∣pearing sensible of it, and though perhaps she lessen'd her disorder, that it might have a resembling operation on mine, yet it produc'd a contrary effect, and made me tell her, she had more Fortitude than Love: But though I apprehended nothing more, than leaving my Princess; yet for three days, (during which my dispatch was making) I did nothing when I was out of her company, but wait upon my King to hasten it; the even∣ing of the last day, coming to his Chamber, I found him writing, and in great perlexities, sometimes blotting out what he had written, then fling∣ing away his Pen, and tearing his Paper. I was something surpriz'd at this, but at last, turning his looks by chance where I was, he seem'd as much surpriz'd at my having seen his disorder, as I was at it; but having some∣what compos'd himself, he call'd me to him, and told me smiling, Artavas∣des, it may be you do as much wonder at that little fury I am in, as you will at the cause, which I will tell you, not only that you may remove it, but be convinc'd, that I have nothing of reserve from my Brother, for that name I will henceforth give you. Know then, that what Altezeera's

Eyes have acted in you, another Lady's have in me, and though by many vows I have profest to have now a Passion only for her, yet as an argu∣ment of her Power or distrust, she will receive no satisfaction, but of a Letter to my abandon'd Mistriss, that I have deserted her, and of another to her self, that I only adore her, which hard sentence I was obeying, when you came in; but having never been blest with a fortunate expression, I found my self more troubl'd to act my obedience, than to undertake it, and since you are so happily present, I will make use of your stile, that my Mistriss may be as much satisfy'd with it, as with my passion. I was more perplext to obey his commands than to learn them, for I was not ignorant Artabazus was addicted to a Passion, which if plac'd upon a perfect object for a legitimate end, deserves a nobler name; but knowing that the Flames of Kings are apter to consume virtue, than che∣rish it, I was unwilling to shew my ignorance in a cause, which I too much detested to serve at so dear a rate; and therefore excus'd my self of the former by the latter; but Artabazus was so pressing, that at length being more vanquish'd by his importunities than reasons, having perfectly re∣ceiv'd his instructions, to follow them I writ this former Letter to the forsaken, and this latter to the ador'd Mistriss.

The First Letter was,

IF you saw the cause of my change, you would excuse the effects, and ac∣knowledge that constancy to you, after having seen her, is too great a weakness to be esteem'd a Virtue, Those Vows therefore I have made you: I do not only recall, but give you leave to do the like with yours, and though you should lose as much by the bargain, as I do gain, yet you cannot more de∣plore that loss, than I should the loss of that time I should spend in your ser∣vice, after having seen my new Conqueror.

The Second Letter was,

SInce you desire another argument of my Passion, besides the having seen the Beauty that inspir'd it, I have to obey your Commands, sent her (that first made me a Lover) a Declaration, that I am no longer hers; But do not believe I can be unconstant to you, because I have been so to her, since your Beauty, the cause of my First change, renders me uncapable of a Second, and that which made me act one fault, will be my security of the acting another.

ARtabazus was so flattering as to commend these Letters, and having passionately enjoyn'd my silence, especially to Altezeera, whose scru∣pulous Virtue (as he said) might think that a crime, which was but a diversion, he desir'd me immediately to retire, that he might transcribe, and send them, and commanded me two hours after to come and receive my fi∣nal dispatch for Rome, which by then should be finish'd. The short time which I found was left me, I dedicated to the fair Altezeera, who I found had more constancy to discourse of my departure than to see it. I will not particularize all was said when I took my leave, which I did with so deep a melancholly, that I have often since consider'd it a Prophecy and not a Weakness; my Princess too, perceiving its greatness participated of it, and practic'd a weakness her self, which she had condemn'd in me; and it may be suspecting my fears had as great a share in it as my separation, she told me, Artavasdes, I have hitherto determin'd to give you no pretence to Altezeera, but what you had by your services and her inclination, but to fortify your Title, which I find your absence and sorrow will need, I here protest by all

things I hold in highest Veneration, as long as you honor me with your af∣fection, I will pay you mine; I am now ty'd to you by Religion, as well as gratitude, which are Bonds I cannot cancel, without rendring my self, as unfit for all other Men, as unworthy of Artavasdes. And I (I reply'd, casting my self at her Feet) do protest by Altezeera, who not to adore, is a higher sin than to do it, that not only I will have a passion for her, whilst she blesses me with a reciprocal one, but continue mine, though she should prove so unmercifully just, as to recall hers. The fair Altezeera then permitting me to kiss her hand, hastily retir'd into her Cabinet, lest I might have perceiv'd those Tears, which at once would have gi∣ven the wound and the cure. From my Princesses Apartment, I went to Lyndesia's, who perhaps with more sorrow, but less demonstration of it, saw my departure; and because she had then receiv'd the Picture of Udosia, my only Sister, which I was much taken with (who had her education in a Principality that belong'd to Annexander, and who then began to disclose a Beauty, which I should without flattery have thought unparallel'd, had I not seen Altezeera's and the fair Parthenissa's) she gave it me as well to satisfy my request, as to convince the Romans, that in one of those Nations, which their Pride call'd barbarous, there was a Beauty to punish it. At last, by my Kings consent, having left the generous Phanasder (who then declar'd himself a Votary to Love) my Lieutenant in Armenia, with a small Equipage I left Thospia, and having past through Cilicia and Pamphilia, I arriv'd at Lydia, where lighting upon a good Ship, I crost the ••Egaean Sea, and landing at Athens, which I then found as famous for her Ruines, as she had been for her Learning, there I left one of my Domestick Servants (who I much trust∣ed) by reason of a great indisposition he was visited with. From Athens by Land we travell'd to Corinth, which stands upon that little Isthmos, that separates Morea from Achaia. From Corinth we went to Seutica, from thence in a Roman Gally, crossing the Gulph of Tyrrhene and the Ionian Sea, I came to Terentum, but with much hazard (for your Army) at length to Rome, where I found the virtuous Annexan∣der had concluded the Treaty, but still continuing under such a lan∣guishing, that my Grief for it could not transcend the Physitians won∣der at it. There I told him with repetitions, all that had happen'd in Armenia, how my joyes attended but my return and his recovery, to be consummated; I shew'd him too the young Udozia's Picture, which he consider'd with the admiration it merited, and lifting up his hands, on∣ly implor'd the gods to protract his life, till he saw the fair Altezeera in my possession, and the original of that Copy. Whilst I recided in that great City, the Fame of the generous Artabanes so fill'd it, though under a name, which, (had not Fortune lov'd Rome more than Virtue) he had impos'd on all the Italians, that after the defeat of Gellius and Lentulus, not on∣ly that Army which was by Annexander's Treaty to invade Parthia under Marcus Crassus, was stopt; but Pompey who then was as far on his return as Dyrrachium, was by divers expresses commanded to transport his Forces into Italy, where if he preserv'd the Roman Empire, he would win more glory than he had done by so much inlarging it; But when by your Valour and Conduct, the two Intelligences came out of Mummius and Crassus's de∣feat, the Senate immediately were assembl'd, and though they shew'd a mag∣nanimity as great as their danger, yet I easily perceiv'd, it proceeded more from their dissembling than their nature. The result of that meeting was to fortify Crassus's broken Troops, with all those which could be immediately

drawn out of Garrisons, or leavied, and to command him to put the fate of Rome to Battel, that if the gods had destin'd her subversion, she might fall like her self. The fame and necessity of this decision, drew under Cras∣sus's Ensignes, all the gallantry of Italy, and because we were to be com∣panions of fortune in another War, I resolv'd to be his in this, which by Annexander's permission I was; The Roman General at my arrival in his Camp, offer'd me such Commands, that I esteem'd, not to have declin'd them, an injustice as great as his civility, but though I refus'd participa∣ting in his Commission yet I could not in his Councils and Intelligences, where I learn'd how Artabanes's Virtue, which could not have been Con∣quer'd, was sold; the strange innundations which happened then, facilita∣ted our overtaking you, but your march to Rome so Alarm'd it, that the Senate invited Annexander to remove into the Capitol, left the City might not prove a secure Sanctuary; but that generous Prince declin'd it, to convince them, he understood their compliment as 'twas meant, which rather to manifest their care, than their apprehension. At length that fatal day came, wherein I lift up my prophane Arm against the per∣fectest of Men, and in which I had receiv'd the reward of an igno∣rance, I could not excuse (since I could not attribute without inju∣stice, the miracles Spartacus did, to any other Sword, than that of Arta∣banes) had not he thought the greatest punishment was, to shew me my offence. Artabanes could not hear those civilities, without interrupting them, which he did, to tell Artavasdes, you might more justly say (gene∣rous Friend,) that for ignoring by your prodigious valour, who was the master of it, and for preserving my self so long after having out-liv'd my defeat, you punisht both those Crimes, by sparing a life, which if then ta∣ken away, had been exempted from torments that can never cease but with it. I believe (said Artavasdes) it will be a less trouble to you to hear the continuation of my Adventures, than to find out matter to com∣mend me, and in that Faith I will prosecute them. But because the virtu∣ous Callimachus had heard all, till our arrival at Rome, I will from thence continue my relation. As soon as Crassus was return'd to the Senate, who deny'd him the honor of the Triumph, not but that his success merited it, but because (as they said) the persons did not against whom 'twas won, and that he himself had refus'd the Ovatio-Triumph, which he esteem'd as much too-low in one extream, as his Lords esteem'd the other too-high in a contrary one; He was immediately dispatch'd with his Army towards Parthia, taking Greece and the lesser Asia in his way, and though Annexan∣der by servent Commands, enjoyn'd my return with the Roman General, and to leave his death, or recovery to the gods, yet my duty submitted to my passion, and that which made me confident that the latter would not be suspended by the former, for above a Moon, was, the Physitians con∣fident assuring me within that time, Annexander would be past hope, or past danger; I know too, that Crassus marching with a vast Army, I might give him so much advance, and yet overtake him, before he could begin the War, besides, I esteem'd it my duty to endeavour the Prince Tygranes's deliverance, who was daily expected at Rome, but my highest motive of continuing longer there was, to enjoy the blessing of Artabanes's conver∣sation, whose company made me so much a friend to my self, and none to gratitude, as to rejoyce at his wounds, and pray against their speedy cure; and since I have begun to tell you my crimes, I will not conceal any of them, for I was too in some manner satisfy'd, that by your Kings cruelties, you were out of a capacity of commanding the War, and of preserving him in a

power to continue it, which though from thence I promis'd my self success, yet my joy had not so poor a cause, but deriv'd its being from a certainty, that thereby I should not imploy my life against the preserver of it; all these motives the gods rais'd for my ruine, which happen'd by my continuance in Rome, where I receiv'd a loss, which neither the Empire of it, nor all those of the world can repair. As soon as Crassus had past the Adriatick Sea, the same Fleet which transported his Army out of Italy, brought Pompey's into it, he was receiv'd all the way in Tryumph, but especially at Rome, where not withstanding the generous Ventidius, and my Prayers, the unfortunate Tygranes compos'd a part of it. This miserable Prince who had in short time, resented the two greatest extreams, was no more able to en∣dure the latter, than he had been to keep the former; and though he were not blest with resolution enough to oppose the vice, yet he was to avoid the shame of it, which he evinc'd, by the sad demonstration of becoming his own executioner. The gods shall be my record, that I shed Tears of grief for the death of him, that would have shed some of a contrary na∣ture for mine, though too, by his fall, I was then in a certainty of posses∣sing Armenia, which by a legitimate succession, was to descend to the fair Altezeera: for though Artabazus had a Son call'd Artaxias, and that he was born after his Master was Crown'd Queen, yet being be gotten unlawfully (which blemish the King esteem'd the Marriage would deface) all the Arme∣nian Nobility consider'd him rather as their Princes shame, than his successor, especially too, when to be unjust to Altezeera, was to be so unto them∣selves, since to have declin'd her rule, was to have declin'd the rule of Virtue. But though Tygranes dy'd not like a Prince, yet he was interr'd like one, and no sooner were the solemnities finish'd of that Funeral, than I fell into so violent a sickness, that Ventidius, who never was from my Bed∣side, believ'd my own would be the next to be celebrated; neither for above half a Moon, could he find any cause to retract that opinion; but asson as my amendment began to dissipate his fears, I assum'd them for him, and indeed, to the best of my memory, I never observ'd so strange an alteration in so short a time; For that quickness in his look, which was admir'd, where ever it was seen, now was as much for the change, his Eyes were dull, and languishing, his humour was resembling them, his discourses were as void of reason, as formerly they had been replenish'd with it; in a word, I cannot describe the condition he then was in, than to the contrary in which I first had the honor to know him; I suspected a while his care and continual watching, had created the alteration, and in that faith I apprehended the clearing of my doubts: but lest I might by ignoring the occasion of his disorder, not offer him my assistance to sup∣press it, I cast out some oblique words, which might acquaint him with my desires, but he was so far from esteming them a Rise to disclose his pain, that he continu'd in a perfect silence, from all things but sighs. This proceeding induc'd me to believe his sufferings were for me, because he appear'd so unwilling to discover them to me; I therefore told him, I was apprehensive his care of, had created mine for him. Yes Artavasdes (he reply'd, with a languishing accent) my care of you makes me take none of my self, nor deserve it, and then with Eyes big with Tears, he left me; but my admiration at it, did not for three days, during which time he never gave me the favour of a visit. So strange a proceeding had cast me in∣to a relapse, but that I esteem'd my health necessary to find Ventidius out, and learn what the avoiding me, and my sickness, gave me no hopes other∣wise to expect. But the evening of the fourth day, as I lay slumb'ring on

my Bed, Ventidius came into my Chamber, so softly, that I heard him not, and had not some groans, whose violence he could not suppress, given me notice of his being there, I had, by not knowing his torment, longer continu'd it; he seated himself by a Table, on which he lean'd both his Elbows, and his Cheeks upon his Hands, his Eyes were fixt upon some object I could not discover, though I could all things else he did, by gently opening of the Curtain. I had not been long in expectation, but mine was rewarded by Ventidius's saying with a low voice, Oh gods! is it possible that a Liberty and a Friendship, I have hitherto preserv'd, and glory'd in, should be destroy'd, by that which, perhaps, is only an effect of Art; and not of Nature, and which (may be) has an existence only in the sight? but (he continu'd, after a short silence) thy fate is not singu∣lar, thou hast heard of a Pigmalion and a Narcissus; the follies of which were not as great, as of those that condemn'd them; for Beauty is only that which passes the eies, and the madness is not as high to adore a moveless red and white, adorn'd with perfect Symetry of Parts, and though dead, has a lively Air, and Vivacity, as to have a passion for an Inhabitant of a Clime, where the Suns brightness engender'd their obscurity, and makes a constant night dwell upon their Faces; were there set rules for Beauty, the World would have but one Mistriss, and their Fancies are more extravagant that dote upon a Face, they seldom see, and never but arm'd with Frowns, where (were I one of their Votaries) that which demonstrates their cruelty, should render it more than mine, who can enjoy my Mistriss's Beau∣ty without fearing my presumption should cloud it: where I can breathe my passion without apprehending any punishment; and if silence be con∣sent, without suspecting a denial; I fear nor Age nor Sickness to impair the object of my Flame: I can excuse my Love by all ways demonstrating the Creator of it, when others in a few years, must be oblig'd to our Faiths, to believe they were not as blind as the Boy they worship'd; and their fe∣licity consists in, (what I should esteem a torment) the remembrance of what they have been, whereas mine consist in the possession of what it is; Their Summer must admit of an Autumn, mine is a Spring that is continu∣al, and though indeed it bears nothing but leaves, yet those do never fall, and for all those advantages, I am depriv'd of nothing but fruition, which some have determin'd, and found rather a cure, than a reward of Love. This I have to say, if it be only a Picture, but oh gods! what can I, if it be a Copy? (as certainly it is for Nature surpas••es Art) and 'tis a great∣er miracle that Man should fancy such a perfection, than that the gods should create it. But alas, (Ventidius continu'd, folding his Arms, and hanging down his Head) 'twere more for thy felicity that this were a Fan∣cy, than a reality, for thou mightst with greater confidence and hope, ex∣pect a resignation from Artavasdes of the former, than if it were the latter; and be better satisfy'd with the possession of a less happiness, by the gal∣lantry of thy Friend, than the greatest, by the crime of becoming his Rival. I could (said Artavasdes) have longer listen'd to his rational extravagancies, had I not esteem'd it a Sin to build my diversion upon my Friend's suffer∣ings, but as I was about to silence them, I heard him say, what Ventidius? is Love then really capable of that mistery which Lovers ascribe unto it? the changing of Hearts? and hast thou already so effemitate a one, as to ap∣prehend with tremblings, to disclose thy condition to thy Friend? If he be not virtuous enough to excuse thy Sin; be thou to punish it? and by the gallantry of thy performance, make him acknowledge, that to have continu'd his Rival, had been a less injury than so to have remov'd him.

Then rising up, I perceiv'd in his Hand, an enamell'd Box, cover'd with Diamonds, which soon made me know, 'twas Vdosia's Picture, which had created this violent conflict. I made a little noise, to let him know I was awake, which he no sooner heard, than he came to my Bed-side, where kneeling down, he open'd the case in a perfect Agony, and ask'd me, Ar∣tavasdes, do you love this Picture? Yes (I reply'd) but the Original much better. Oh gods (said he) then you cannot any longer love Ven∣tidius. You are mistaken (I reply'd) and to evince that Truth, I give you my permission to love it too; Alas (he reply'd) you may do that without fear, when you continue my Rival, for she must have as much im∣becility as beauty, should she, for the unfortunate Ventidius, decline the happy Artavasdes. I know (said I, smiling) nothing of her, but what you see, and that her name is Udosia, Great gods! (said Ventidius, starting up) how came you then by her Picture? and are you then the courted Party? No (I reply'd) I am confident, of all the world she would not have Ar∣tavasdes for her Husband, and yet I believe there is few she loves better. My reason (said Ventidius) is as much lost in those words, as my liberty to the subject of them. I hope (I reply'd) I have given you so much satis∣faction, as not to suspect me your Rival: If I have not already, I protest by your inviolable friendship, of all the Women in the world, I would not make Udozia my Wise, and much less endeavour, or hope to enjoy her, by an illegitimate way. You confound me (said Ventidius) as much as she does, and if you delighted not to torment your Friend, you would not so long continue my suspension. I will finish it (said I, embracing him) with an assurance, that if you can like the Original as well as the Copy, she shall be Ventidius's; as an earnest of which truth, I acquaint you she is my Si∣ster. He that could describe the generous Romans extasies and joyes, must have resented them; for I that saw them cannot, but when they were enough diminish'd, to continue our discourses, I told him, he had said so many per∣tinent things of a Passion for a Picture, that I conjur'd him to accept of Udozia's, that when time had ruin'd her Beauty, he might preserve some∣thing to extenuate his extravagancy. Ventidius a thousand times kist the Present, and as many times embrac'd me for the bestowing it; I then told him, 'twas not amiss to let Annexander know of his designe, whilst he re∣sided in Rome, that he might be the more certain of Udozia's Passion, which he could not doubt, when it would be both an effect of her judge∣ment, and her Duty. No (said Ventidius) I will ask her more handsome∣ly than so, for I will at the head of 50000 Romans, come and implore her in Armenia, she shall see under my Ensignes, Forces that will give her by their Virtue, those Kingdoms hers do merit, and which my birth deny'd me; for I will not presume to declare my self her Servant, till I can wear Crowns of Laurel, and present her with those of Empire. Yes, generous Artavasdes, I now repent my self I declin'd that Army (afterwards con∣ferr'd on Crassus) but now I have the ambition to Command, I shall not long be without one; I will make Glory my Advocate as well as you, and 'tis fit I should be miserable, did I expect any other way to felicity. To con∣tract my narration; after I had assur'd Ventidius, I would so fill Udozia's Breast with the Character of his Virtue, that she should be as much taken with his Fame, as he was with her Picture, and that he did injure her to talk of Kingdoms, after she was Ventidius's, he retir'd himself in such rap∣tures of joy, that in few days, he return'd to his former health. But alas! I was no sooner to mine, than the gods cast me into a relapse, whose cause was worse than the disease: 'Twas the death of Annexander, to which mis∣fortune

I paid so many Tears, that I thought (though falsly) their storc had been exhausted; never did any death more convince me, there was another Life than his; for had not he been satisfy'd of that truth, he could not have yielded himself up to eternal Ashes, with so absolute a resignati∣on. Great Gods! (continu'd Artavasdes) why did you not then acquaint me how miserable I was, that I might have left the World when Annexan∣der did? and have had so sure a way to eternal Felicity, as the following of him, and that in the effects of my Duty, I might have found those of your Mercy: But alas, you had destin d me to be as unparallel'd in suf∣fering, as in Love: and thereby (I hope) instructed me, there is a re∣ward in another world, since my constancy is deny'd one in this. [These passionate words, both Artabanes and Callimachus sympathiz'd in, which made Artavasdes the sooner finish them, which he did by thus resuming his discourse, after he had begg'd their pardon for having interrupted.] Be∣fore Annexander's Funeral, by passionate perswasions of one of his most con∣fident Servants, I caus'd his Body to be open'd, wherein (alas) I too vi∣sibly found, he was sent to the gods by the wickedness of Men, which being not discover'd (during his life) made me not wonder that the Se∣nate had once expell'd the Physitians out of Rome, for in this experiment, I found, 'twas their ignorance, and not their profession which was banisht; but this sad misfortune and discovery, with my impossibility of disclosing the poysoner, cast me into a violent Feaver, wherein, though those we adore, were not so merciful as to end my Miseries and my Life, yet they were so just as to discover, who wickedly would have been so charitable: for I had retain'd all my Fathers Domesticks, and being prescrib'd after my Physick, the drinking of some Broth, as it stood warming by the fire, one of those little Dogs which are so common, and so much cherisht in Rome, came and lapp'd it all up, but no sooner had he been my Taster, than he began to reel, then to swell, and at last fell dead by the Bed-side. This happen'd whilst Ventidius was present, who remembring how Annexander dy'd, enquir'd of Philanax, who had made the Broth, and having learnt it was one of my Fathers Cooks, he immediately went down, seiz'd upon him, and presented his naked Ponyard to his Brest, in the apprehension of death, he discover'd that which made him desire, and think it a happi∣ness, but as he was ready to expire, observing Ventidius and Philanax were spectators of his execution, he begg'd, and obtain'd leave to speak with them privately, where he told them, that to dis-burthen his Conscience of a load, which might sink it into eternal darkness, he acknowledge'd that 'twas he by a lingring poyson, had murther'd Annexander, and that he had been hir'd to that sin by Crassolis. This intelligence, (after Justice had past on the Criminal) the only knowers of it told me, I kept it private, lest the Traytor, by the knowledge of the discovery, might avoid the punishment of it. But though I had in one Moon, cast off my sickness, yet I did not recover my health, and was told, should not till I chang'd the Air. Ven∣tidius immediately offer'd me a magnificent Palace of his, which stood by the Sea side, within the Gulph of Tarentum, whither I went, after ha∣ving took leave of the generous Artabanes, who I could not perswade to remove thither, till his wounds were perfectly cur'd, and unto whom I promis'd to return, that I might enjoy the felicity of his company, as far as Armenia, but I never had the blessing to see him since, till by his Pre∣sence I not only receiv'd my Life, but the relish of it too. Some ten days after my arrival at Ventidius's, by that excellent Air, I recover'd strength enough to walk abroad, and as we were diverting our selves by the Sea∣side,

we saw a Gally cast Anchor in the Road, and mann out a Boat to land her Passengers, where, to my admiration, I found one of them was the gallant Falintus, who at first seeing me, put on a joyful Look, which his Face was so little accustom'd to, that I observ'd, it was soon expell'd, as an intruder. But oh gods! why do I protract the disclosing my miseries, since I complain their having given me no more, is a misfortune, because formerly they have given me so many? Yes (Artabanes) 'twas Falintus told me, that Artabazus had displac'd Phanasder as soon as I was gone: that by discontenting so gallant a Man, he had lost the Hearts of all those which bore that Title: That he had lost a great Battel to Arsaces and Pacorus: his Army being led by one of Crassolis's creatures, who the common Soliers had sacrific'd to their Fury (to rob the Parthians of the Glory of an entire victory, by acting of a part of it themselves:) That Artabazus, Lin∣desia, and Altezeera, had been shut up in Thospia: and (oh gods! that I live to tell it!) that the last,

Here the miserable Artavasdes had not fortitude enough to resist the remembrance of his loss, but abandon'd himself to effeminacies, which made both Artabanes and Callimachus more pity, than condemn them.

The generous Armenian was above half an hour, e'r he could dry up his Tears, or silence his sighs, but as soon as he had gotten the victory of those Passions, which had so lately gotten it of him, he made use of it to continue his Story, which he thus did, with the sorrow and attention of the Hearers.