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

PARTHENISSA.

THE FOURTH PART.

The First BOOK.

THE generous Artavasdes had no sooner finish'd his Story (which had produc'd no common operations in the hearers), than Artabbanes told him, If the sin of not-believing Artavasdes were not greater, than the vanity of believing my Sword could contribute to a victory his was acting, I should not make the last of those my faith; which since to avoid the first I must do, I shall to extenuate the necessity of that crime, protest, That I will no more exclaim against the gods for having so extraordinarily preserved me from death, since now I find 'twas to preserve Artavasdes from it; for whom I am so justly concern'd, that I shall cherish the continuation of my miseries, if they contribute to the continuation of his life; which, though replenish'd with many sensible misfortunes, yet are as far short of mine, as an unhappiness that time and many accidents may cure, is of one which the very gods them∣selves cannot. If (said Artavasdes) my miseries till now were not equal to yours, this assurance had made them so; for the accession to my past misfortunes, that yours transcend them, gives mine the Precedency. Callimmachus, who apprehended this generous dispute would suspend him from learning what would enable him to determine of it; acquainted them with his fears; to which Artabbanes told him: Alas Sir, I shall by not obeying you, do it; for by not being able to tell you what should determine it, you cannot but do it on my side; I am also the more con∣cern'd in this victory, since by the loss of it, I shall be depriv'd of this only consolation in my miseries, that my generous friend's are not equal to them. But the Night being already too far spent to begin a fresh relation, he not only perswaded them to defer their curiosity till the next morning; but also to permit Symander to satisfie it; whose fidelity had

render'd him an unsuspected hearer of Artavasdes's Adventures; and whose interest in his Princes life, and secrets, render'd him a fit Relator of them. Callimmachus and Artavasdes having exprest a greater sorrow, that Artabbanes was not able to tell his own story, than that he did it not; and a little time being spent in discourses of that quality (and of the different opinions they all had, what could make the Prince of Parthia so intent upon Artavasdes's Death, as to hire Assassinates to act it, which he had told Callimmachus and Artabbanes one of them had confest with his last breath): The generous Priest took leave of the two Friends, not only to afford them a liberty which he apprehended his company something limited, but also to perform some ceremonies of his office, and to be the earlier ready to summon Symander of an e••∣gagement which he in part had already so well satisfied, that it gave him a just impatience till he had done it entirely. The night therefore had no sooner resign'd her Empire to the Sun, than Callimmachus came to Artabbanes and Artavasdes Appartment, where he found that his fear of Incivility proceeded from a different cause, than from that he apprehended; for the latter of them was so far from believing it too∣early, that he had already expected him above an hour, with all the im∣patiencies of a concern'd friend; and the former having left Symander to satisfie his promise, was already retir'd into a Gallary contiguous to his Chamber, to avoid the hearing of his unparallel'd miseries, and of ob∣serving the influence they would necessarily have over his generous friends. Smyander by Artavasdes's command, seated himself between him and Callimmachus, and there being summon'd by them both, to continue the Relation of his Princes Fortunes, having first remember'd the generous Armenian, that by his arrival he had been interrupted from the prosecution of them at their entrance into Rome, after the vi∣ctory of Crassus: from thence thus began his discourse, addressing it to Artavasdes.

The sequel of Parthenissa's and Artabbane's Story.

AFter that for the recovery of your health, and the extenuating your grief for the loss of a Father, which but too justly merited it, you had retir'd for a few days to Ventidius's Palace, and that my Prince was assur'd by the Chyrurgeons, his wounds were in such unfor∣tunate places, that for at least two Moons he should be unable to travel: To oblige the generous Sillaces, who was then perfectly recover'd; and to silence those fears, which so long an absence had doubtless contracted in the fair Parthenissa, but especially in Lyndadorie, he conjur'd him to begin his journey into Parthia, and to leave his cure to the help of time, and of the Chyrurgeons. Sillaces, though he were too much a Lover, not to esteem a separation from his Mistress a misfortune; yet he was also too much a friend, to leave one that was so to him, in so dan∣gerous a place and condition; and besides, fearing Artabbanes had made him that request, more to satisfie him, than himself, he absolutely declin'd it; but when by many pressing protestations my Prince had remov'd those doubts, it was not long after, that Sillaces (taking the benefit of a Roman Galley, which was bound from Ostia to Tyre) left Artabbanes, having first concluded amongst themselves of what he should say and do in Parthia; and having receiv'd from him a Letter to the

fair Lyndadory, so fill'd with approbations, and extolments of her election, and of implorings in his favour, and advantage, that had she but only lov'd her Brother, she could not but have done the like to her Servant. 'Twas by my Princes command that I waited on the generous Sillaces to Ostia, where having seen him aboard, I return'd to Rome the same day, and passing by the Capitol to go to Artabbane's lodging, I perceiv'd at the gate of it, a great confluence of people; my curiosity led me to enquire the cause of it from one who told me, it was from a Salapian Lord, who had begg'd of the Senate the head of Spartacus, which he was then taking down. This information made me imagine 'twas the generous Perolla, who I soon after perceiv'd all in Mourning, in a Chariot that was so, and near him the fair Izadora, in the same Li∣vory, like the Sun in a cloud: I must confess, I had a thousand pains to abstain from running to acquaint them with a Truth, their ignorance of which, produced such sad, and noble effects; but the belief that the discovery of it was fitter to proceed from my obedience, than me, and would in that quality be better relish'd by them, I went hastily to my Prince, and having given him an account of what I have you; with all the impatience which so just a concern could inspire, he immediately commanded me to go and acquaint the generous Lovers where he was, and assure them, that had his wounds permitted him to pay them a visit, no other impediment should have suspended him from that duty. As soon as I had received this order, I went to obey it; and though I came immediately after to the place where I had left them, I learnt, that having taken down the Senate's grant, they were return'd with it to their Lodging; which having inquir'd out, I went thither, and sent up one of their Domesticks to let them know a stranger desir'd the honour of seeing them, who had something of importance to acquaint them with. I stay'd not long for an answer, or admittance; and as soon as I came into the Chamber, I perceiv'd the generous Lovers weeping many real tears over the counterfeit head of my Prince; but after that by the little noise I made, they had turn'd their sight towards me, and perceiv'd who I was; the fair Izadora by some shrieks, and a more violent weeping, de∣monstrated, that her seeing of me, brought some fresh, and more sensible reflections into her memory, than a disfigur'd and unknowable part of Spartacus had done; but Perolla, whose Sex dispenc'd him from a pro∣portionate excess in those effeminacies, came towards me, and told me, You see Symander, that the cruel gods having allow'd us no other way but this, to evince our gratitude to your generous Master, we have not declin'd it; we have now nothing but this part of him, and his memory left us, which we will cherish at a rate, that those which know it, shall be convinc'd by what we do, what we would have done, had our powers of gratitude proportionated our cause, or our desires of it; which last we cannot more highly, or justly illustrate, than by assuring you they equal the first; and in our transcendent loss we should receive some little relaxation, if one who Spartacus did so much esteem of as Symander, would so much esteem of us, as to pass his life with those, who during their own, will eternally deplore the loss of his generous Ma∣ster's. Sir, (I reply'd) I should be too unworthy so noble an offer, had I surviv'd him in whose consideration 'tis made; No, generous Perolla, Spartacus lives, and does so, so much the more happily, by how much he knows his life is considerable to you, and will put a period to a grief

nothing can repair, or equal, but his, when I shall acquaint him with yours, and the fair Izadora's.

Thereupon I made them that complement my Prince had commanded me; which they no sooner heard, than in raptures as far transcending repetition, as imitation, they both conjur'd me to bring them to a person, who by the obligations of gratitude, and virtue, they acknow∣ledg'd themselves equally confin'd to admire and esteem. 'Twas by this time, about the close of the Evening, so that without any hazard they might give my Prince a visit; which when I had told them, they imme∣diately went in their Chariot (taking me only with them) to my Prince's Lodging, where the generous Lovers continued their tears, though for a contrary cause to that for which they had usually shed them. 'Twas in this interview (continued Symander) that Perolla acquainted Artab∣banes, how that having heard of his fatal loss at the Battel of the Trenches, and that a Head as replenish'd with the gifts of the Mind, as of Nature, was ignominiously fixt on the Capitol; both he and Izadora dressing their Bodies in the livery of their Minds, came purposely from Salapia, and had begg'd from the Senate the remainder of a person, who could not be more an Enemy to Rome, than a friend to Salapia and them. The Senate, who always esteem'd of Gratitude, as knowing they had the greatest power to create it in any; and believing those that had it for their Enemies, would not want it for them; in one action, to reward and create ours, granted our request; with which we intended to return, and to have rais'd such a Trophy to this part of the dead Spartacus, as should have evinced the just and vast esteem we had of the Living. Perolla further told him, That since his leaving of Salapia, their Fathers had as much admir'd at their past differences and cruelties, as others did at their present friendship, which was so settl'd and perfect, that it relish'd not a little of what had caus'd it; and that already virtue was so habi∣tual to them, that it appear'd rather an effect of their nature, than their change. Artabbanes by many embraces to the generous Perolla, and retributions to the fair Izadora, acknowledg'd their virtue and good∣ness, and protested he was more satisfy'd with their Father's friendship to them, than with theirs to him; since he was more concern'd in their satisfaction than his own; which they could not suspect, since he evinc'd it in the most pregnant testimony.

But after some other discourses of this nature, Artabbanes, who re∣member'd the pressing desire the generous Lovers had demonstrated to learn his quality and life, and that by the discovery of the fair Parthe∣nissa's Constancy, he esteem'd himself disoblig'd from any longer silence, he acquainted them with it; who no sooner heard of a Concession his formal denial, and nothing else, had suppress'd their imploring, by fresh impatiencies they invited my Prince to satisfie their longing. This he did, by telling them exactly all his Adventures, in which they so justly sympathiz'd, that it invited him to do the like, in the joy they assum'd at that happy intelligence he had so miraculously receiv'd from the gene∣rous Sillaces: Neither did they after the knowledg of my Prince's quality, pay him any more respect, or affection; for their Gratitude and Virtue, had render'd them uncapable of any accessions of that nature.

I will not (said Symander) so unnecessarily intrench on your atten∣tions, as to inform you how constantly every day the virtuous Salapians

visited Artabbanes, nor of the excellent entertainment their conversa∣tion gave him: for 'tis high time we should leave that Italy, which had been the Scene of such discrepant events. To effect this the sooner, I will inform you, that the generous Ventidius being return'd from the Gulph of Tarentum, came to my dear Master, and there acquainted him of what depriv'd him of the honour of your Company, which his Friendship for you, made him esteem a greater misfortune, than the deprivation it self; and indeed, Ventidius, to render your precipitate departure the more excusable, render'd it so dangerously necessary, that Artabbanes had esteem'd the Misfortune of your having left him without cause, a less one. The generous Roman upon your score, or that of virtue, so assiduously visited, and serv'd my Prince, that his obligations had no unfruitful return, if their design was to acquire him really his Friendship. At length after two Moons, my dear Master's wounds were well-enough clos'd, to permit him to think of Parthia, and the Night before his design'd departure, Perolla (who apprehended, in a strange Country he might not be sufficiently provided) came and brought me the richest Jewels I had ever seen, and desir'd me to carry them with me, to remedy any misadventure. I was much more satisfy'd with his care, than he was with my assurance, that Artabbanes had enough of them to supply his necessities, and with my protestations (after he had earnestly press'd me to accept them for my self), that I would carry away nothing of his, but the memory of his virtue. Perolla immediately after went to Artabbanes, with whom he had left the fair Izadora, where he conjur'd him before her to permit his waiting on him into Parthia, since he and the gods had left him no other way to demon∣strate his Gratitude, and affection. Artabbanes absolutely refus'd this offer, ` and was much more troubled at the making it, than ever Izadora was.

My memory not serving me to repeat the generous Lovers final Civilities, I will not so much wrong their excellence, as to dress them in my own expressions: The next day after this separation, they return'd to Salapia with the false Spartacus's head, which (either to disguise the Truth, or in honour to any thing which bore that name) they caus'd magnificently to be buried, and ever after liv'd in the unimitable joys of a virtuous Love; and that those cannot be transcended by any others, is not a greater Truth than it is, that never any more justly deserv'd them. The same morning my Prince left Rome, he went to Ostia, where the obliging Ventidius expected him, not daring, because of his eminent quality, to wait on him thither, lest it might have prov'd a dangerous Civility. There my Prince by Ventidius's favour found an excellent Gally, well fitted and Man'd, ready to receive him, and his Commands.

'Twas aboard, that these two great Men took leave, and 'twas in that separation I discovered charms in the generous Roman's Person and Discourse, which could be no more resisted, than sufficiently ad∣mir'd: At length having mutually vow'd a friendship as unalterable, as that they had for virtue, and confirm'd it by many strict embraces, Ventidius returned privately to Rome, and the whole Ginge immediately with chearful shouts and vigorous stroaks, made the Galley run faster than that River it had so lately abandon'd; but the Wind blowing a sted∣dy gale at West, exempted the Slaves from much labour, and so facili∣tated our intended Voyage, that in twenty days we cast Anchor in the

River Orontes, which washes the Walls of Antioch; whither the same night my Prince went; having largely rewarded the Slaves, the Mari∣ners and the Officers of Ventidius's Gally. At Antioch having furnish'd our selves with two excellent Arabian Horses, and having learnt that the ways through Syria and Mesopotamia, were much obstructed by Crassus's Army, which possess'd all the Bridges, and other considerable Passes, Artabbanes to avoid any probable impediments, determin'd to leave those two Provinces on the South, and so by the way of Armenia and Media to get into Parthia. This was by much the more secure course, and not very much the longer. We had already performed so much of our Journey, as to the Banks of the River Corindas, which runs through Arsacca, one of the noblest Cities in Media, and were not past eight Furlongs from it, when from the height of a little Hill, we discover'd a fight; which though not very considerable for the number of the Com∣batants, yet it was for those of the dead; for of above forty, two only remain'd alive; which by the richness and beauty of their Arms, but much more by their Courages, demonstrated themselves to be the Chief of either Party. Not far from the Scene where this Tragedy was acting, stood a Chariot, whose Horses either by design or accident, were running up and down the field with their Harnesses broken, and in it was a Lady, who we thought was the Judg, or Reward of the Victory; and who by what we could discern of her, when we came nearer (for she was vail'd) seem'd too to be a worthy cause of so ge∣nerous a Dispute. My Prince extreamly taken with such courages, and believing to permit them to destroy each other, would be as great a Crime in him, as in those which endeavour'd it; pulling down the sight of his Helmet, he rid up and thrust himself between them, where ha∣ving received on his Shield some blows, which their fury intended for each other, he conjur'd them both, by what they valu'd most, and by those lives which, by what he had seen of them, were too considerable to be fruitlesly lost; That unless the Cause of their Quarrel were mortal, they would desist from a fight, which would give both, or one of them wounds, which would prove so. He that wore the green Arms, either inraged to lose that dawning advantage he had over his Enemy, or to be interrupted from acting a Revenge he was very intent upon, told my Prince in a furious Tone, Whoever thou beest, that art so over-officious, know, that did I not believe thy care of my Enemy proceeded from thy ignorance of his Crimes, I should by thy defending a Person so reple∣nish'd with them, leave the punishment of his, for the punishment of thine; which out of that belief, I will now omit; but if this declara∣tion be not sufficient to restrain thy Assistance, thou shalt find thy Death in thy mistaken Charity. Then clapping Spurs to his Horse, and strik∣ing my Prince's with the flat of his Sword, he joyn'd again his Adver∣sary, and so incessantly prest him, that before my Prince could come to punish the Conquerour, or defend the vanquish'd, the former had pass'd his Sword through the latter; who by that fatal thrust, let fall his own and his Bridle, employing both those hands which had held them, to hold himself in his Saddle: The Horse finding nothing to restrain him, ran with his wounded Rider up and down the Field. He in the green Armour had doubtless made the Death of his Enemy, the end of his victory, had not Artabbanes run after him to hinder it; which so in∣cens'd the Stranger; that leaving his old Enemy for his new, he only

said, Since by undertaking my Adversaries defence, thou wilt partake of his Crimes, prepare thy self to do the like of his punishment; and then with an active rage, he discharg'd some furious blows on Artabbanes, who moved by this fresh accession to his former affront, receiv'd him so briskly, that the Stranger found he had undertaken a Quarrel far more difficult than that he had so advantageously and lately decided. I knew too much the Laws of Honour and my Prince's Courage, to offer him any assistance from Mine, and therefore only continued a Spectator of a Combat, which though replenish'd with many admirable things, yet none appear'd so justly so to me, as that Artabbanes was so long a conquering. I must confess, his Adversary's courage gave me inclinations for him, that the way in which he imploy'd it, might justly have exempted me from; and I had longer continued my admiration, had not I by chance, casting my Eye on the South-side of the little Plain we were in, perceived Ten Horse-men which came out of a Wood which confin'd it on that side; two of them having observed the dangerous condition the wounded Gentleman was in, ran to his Assistance; one of them vaulting up behind him, upheld his tottering Body in his Arms, and the other leading his Horse by the Head, retook (with their charge) the way they had come; but the remaining Eight came a-gallop towards that place where my Prince and the Stranger were prodigally employing their Valours against each other, which united were hardly able to secure them: Their be∣ing so intent on each others ruine, made them not consider how near their own was; which to prevent, I rid up and acquainted them with what their Eyes immediately did; wherefore the Stranger more concern'd in the Ladies safety, than in his Revenge or hopes of Victory, immediately told Artabbanes, Valiant Stranger, The difference betwixt us, is not of so high a concernment, but another time may serve to decide it, and having found in your Sword a virtue worthy to serve so great a Beauty as these are coming to ravish from me, I shall not scruple to desire your assistance, or at least your neutrality; but to invite you to the former, I protest, I present you with a higher glory by the honour of serving her, than your victory over me can afford you; and perhaps by this concession you will conquer me a more certain and a more facile way, than that you have now undertaken. My Prince extreamly satisfied with this generous pro∣ceeding, told him, If I receive any trouble from what you motion, 'tis only left you might think I grant that to your desire which I would to your condition, or to the Beauty you so resolutely defend; neither can you doubt by the cause of our present Dispute, that I would not practice for you, what I did against you. Artabbanes had not time to give him any other assurances than what his Sword did; and finding it necessary and just to joyn with my Prince, I did it; our Enemies, though they lost at the first charge two of their resolutest Companions, were not near so much surpriz'd thereat, as to see so strange and sudden an union against them; but this mysterie some of them had not Life enough left to unriddle; yet the others made so vigorous a resistance, that the Stranger had lost his Life, if my Prince by the death of one of his Enemies (which was come behind him) had not hinder'd it; I had my share in the danger, and the victory; the first by receiving some slight wounds, and the last by killing him which gave them me: In brief, our Enemies survived not their defeat, for the Combat ended not but with their Lives. The Stran∣ger had no sooner done acting towards, and observed this Truce, than he

came to my Prince, and lifting up his Helmet, told him, Generous Stran∣ger, since I hold my Sword from you, the gods forbid I should employ it against you; if I have now any designs upon you, they are not only by imitating you, to preserve your Life by the hazard of mine; but, if the oc∣casion were offered, by the absolute loss of it. The Stranger had scarce finish'd these words, when he found himself in my Prince's Arms, who by repeating twice or thrice the Name of Sillaces, made me know 'twas that generous Prince whom he so passionately embrac'd. You may believe (continued Symander) this accident produc'd no small admiration in Artabbanes, which was rais'd to a higher degree when Sillaces after know∣ing my Prince, told him, 'twas upon his score he had then been fighting, and that it was against Surena, When Artabbanes consider'd he fought against his Friend for his Enemy, it rais'd in him some just repinings against the strangeness of his destiny; but as soon as he reflected on his Enemie's being the fair Zephalinda's Brother, they were immediately silenc'd; and if any thing in this encounter afficted him, 'twas, that he had drawn his Sword against Sillaces, and not that he had done it for Surena. My Prince assur'd his generous Friend of this, who could not sufficiently ad∣mire at a Friendship so efficacious, as that it ran in a Blood; when even one of it had acted as much to create his hatred, as the other was capable of, for the raising his affection and esteem. But Artabbanes, who was im∣patient of all discourses, but those which tended to the learning of his destiny in the fair Parthenissa's condition, earnestly implor'd from Sillaces an account of what he knew concerning it: Who replyed, that his absence in his search, had made him but from second hands, and confusedly learn it; but that the Beauty his Sword had so much injur'd, and so much serv'd, could give him an exact relation of all. My generous Master, who was confirm'd by that Zeal with which Sillaces had embrac'd her Service, that it was Lyndadorie (though he could not fancy by what strange adven∣tures she had left Parthia and needed his Sword) went with Sillaces to the Chariot: But great Gods! what was his surprize when he found the Beau∣ty in it was the fair Parthenissa! I cannot tell you with how many tremb∣lings and prostrations he express'd his joy and wonder, before he could do either by his words; nor can I tell you with what emotions the admirable Parthenissa found her Deliverer was a more transcendent felicity than her Deliverance. Never (continued Symander) never did any mortal appear so like those that are not; so that if the gods had not reserv'd adoration for what only was a Deity, and not for what merited to be one, my Prince must have converted a flame of Love into one of Devotion. His Three years absence had so perfected those morning-Beauties, that the light which sees every thing, never saw any so exactly accomplish'd; insomuch that had the gods given eternity to her then Beauty, they could have given it no other accession. Artabbanes who receiv'd her Flames as fast as her Eyes inspir'd them, was so entirely taken up with that employ∣ment, that he continued silent as long almost as I have been speaking; but no sooner had his words the liberty of utterance, than he told the fair Par∣thenissa, You see (Madam) prostrate at your feet, the unfortunate, and happy Artabbanes; the last of these, in having obtain'd your Pardon; and the first, in having needed it; you cannot (Madam) doubt of your power, when as an effect of it, after my Crime, I dare present my self before my injur'd Princess: But may I not fear I receiv'd this command from your Revenge, and not your Mercy, since to behold the Virtue and Beauty I

have wrong'd, is one of the most sensible punishments could be inflicted on me for having done it; and it had been more just (if you had not esteem'd it otherwise, because it was more easie for me) to have executed your Revenge, than obey'd your Mercy; Neither is it a small Misfortune, that by a Crime I come to implore it for one; but yet by having fought against your Deliverance, you may discover my Sins against the divine Parthenissa, are not my Elections, but my Fate; for nothing but so unre∣sistable an impulsion, could have made me either doubt her professions and constancy, or fought against her Interests.

If (said Parthenissa) the generous Artabbanes hazarded my Delive∣rance by his Sword, he has establish'd it by the same weapon, and abun∣dantly repair'd a small injury by what acted it; and if he doubted my professions and constancy, he was so excellently deluded into that mistake, that it had been a greater Miracle he had avoided those thoughts, than that he assum'd them. I may profess too with the same Truth, that I fear'd as much the disclosing of my Innocency, as he detested my seeming want of it; for I knew the discovery of his errour would but too∣abundantly punish it: and I was more concern'd in his felicity than esteem, the latter being an advantage I wholly appropriated to my self, which also I could not but by his extream prejudice. Ah Madam, (the ravish'd Artabbanes reply'd) the more you disclose your Virtue, the more you manifest my Sin in having doubted it; and you increase the punish∣ment thereof, by endeavouring to extenuate it: 'Tis upon that score only, that I receive with joy what you now deliver, as I shall do any thing of that quality with the same reception, that contributes to a suffering I cannot more deserve, than I am ambitious to embrace: Yes, fair Parthe∣nissa, if I have languish'd so long a Life after the evincement of my Crime, 'twas because I esteem'd Death rather a Reward, than a Punish∣ment of it, and because you commanded me to return; which the more zealously I obey'd, because in that obedience I evidenc'd I would de∣cline no other penance could be inflicted on me, this transcending all others, as much as my offences does. But now, Madam, that I have effected that command, let your next be to become the Executioner of your Jnstice; you will prove your Mercy greater in such an imposition, than in a Pardon, since the first will end a Life which has lost those hopes which only gave it a relish; and the last, by permitting me to see that blessing I have lost, and which I can no more aspire unto without com∣mitting as high a Sin by my presumption, as by my doubts will involve me in torments, that but to reflect on will transcend the actual operations of all others. If (said Parthenissa) I am satisfy'd that you believe your self so great a Criminal, it proceeds only that by my passing by your offences, you have the greater obligation to me; I am too-much concern'd in your Life to continue it in Torment, and the gods have render'd me uncapable of that Injustice, without equally participating in the effects of it: I do therefore with your Pardon, return you your hopes, and give you an assurance that mine cannot have a more pleasing object, than that you will believe your Life is so undissolubly ty'd to mine, that the cares or negligence you have of your own, must produce resembling opera∣tions on Parthenissa's. Great gods! (reply'd Artabbanes) you are not so infinite as my Joy, or the Mercy which has created it; neither of those know any limits, and your Power does, by being uncapable but by them to make me value, or cherish my Life: Yes, my Princess (he continued, embracing her knees, and printing a thousand burning kisses on her

hand), you have by so obliging a declaration, invited the happy Artab∣banes, almost to approve his Sin, in rendring it the efficient cause of so transcendent an evincement of your favour; and made him as much in love with his Life, as with you, or as you are with virtue; and if ever he employs one moment of it but to celebrate your Mercy, may he re∣peat that Crime which has so abundantly prov'd the vastness of it; or into higher punishments, if the gods were capable of inflicting on him any that were so. It was (continu'd Symander) by an infinite Number of such expressions that these generous Lovers gave each other assurances of their being so; which being finish'd, the Princess, who till then had been so intent upon this admirable Adventure, that she had omitted to cast her Eyes on Sillaces, (who so prodigally had hazarded his Life to revenge and break her imprisonment) then did it, and being convinc'd 'twas he, by his having lifted up his Helmet, she made him retributions worthy what created them; which fill'd Artabbanes with new admirations, for he hitherto had thought that his Friend, and his Princess (especially by the former having address'd him to the latter) had seen and convers'd with one another before (which by a rare accident they had not): but during the Combat, my generous Master had receiv'd some wounds, which by the emotions of so passionate a conversation, were so inflam'd, and had so much bled, that he began to give some symptom of fainting, which cast Parthenissa into one; the care of whose recovery, created Artabbanes's: but as soon as she was restor'd to her self because of Silla∣ces wounds as well as my Prince's, and that it was late, we resolved to go to Arsacia, which we esteem'd a Place of security against the attempts of Surena's Partizans, should they have any desires of revenge, whilst Sil∣laces and Artabbanes wounds facilitated their acting it; I omit (said Symander) purposely, those favours the fair Parthenissa honoured me withal; which I had no sooner received and acknowledged, than I went to a Countrey-house in sight of the place where all that I have told you happened, and there by good fortune lighted on a young fellow, who by often driving a Waggon, had some little skill in driving a Chariot; with his help we got together the Horses, and mended their Traces; but because my Prince's and his Friend's wounds made it dange∣rous and painful to ride, by Parthenissa's reiterated invitations, they went into her Chariot, and in that manner came in the close of the evening to Arsacia, where by the help of our young Peasant (who was liberally rewarded) we got into a private House, the Gates being already lock'd; and because my wounds were so favourable as to permit me to pay my duty to those my condition and inclination owed it, I went and got a Chyrurgeon who lived in the Suburbs, from whom I understood that the then Governour of Arsacia, was Zenophon, which was no small satis∣faction to Artabbanes, whom he had learnt from Moneses, had ever been a faithful servant to all his Family. I must acknowledg my satisfaction at it was not inferiour to his, for my Father and Zenophon were Cousin∣Germanes, and yet had been more united by Friendship, than by Blood; which obligation never ended but with my Father's life. But before my Prince would permit his wounds to be drest, he waited on Parthenissa to her Chamber.

'Twas there, by a world of reiterated and passionate expressions that he acknowledged his Crime, and the Mercy that had produced it; which latter gave him a less ill opinion of the former, by finding experimentally there could be something that transcended it, which till so obliging an

evincement, had never entered into his Faith. Artabbanes and Sillaces were no sooner retir'd, than they went to the woman of the House, who they found had been bless'd with an education different to her present quality, and of no common Beauty; they were not a little pleas'd with both, as knowing they rendered her the fitter for a Service which she joy∣fully went to pay the fair Parthenissa. 'Twas after this, that the two Friends made use of the Chyrurgeon, who found how great an Enemy their civilities had prov'd to their healths, and that the paying of their's (unseasonably) two hours, would render them uncapable for many to do the like. Artabbanes was much more troubled at this assurance, than at the danger which caus'd it. The Chyrurgeon being retir'd, I told the two generous Friends (who lay both in one Chamber) that perhaps it were not amiss, if the next morning I went to Zenophon, and acquainted him with their being in his Government, which obligation of Trust would not only in some good degree recompence his past fidelity, but invite his future, and thereby procure a powerful Assistant, in case Surena's being alive, should thrust him into desires of revenge, and of recovery of Parthenissa; or if dead, should infuse resembling ones into his Friends and Partizans. Artabbanes, though he knew exactly the merit of Zeno∣phon's fidelity, yet he consented as much to what I motion'd upon the score that his Princess would be thereby removed to a place, and Atten∣dance less unfit for her, as upon any other. This resolve being assum'd, they endeavoured to take their rest, which the joy of Artabbanes, and the sympathy Sillaces had in it as much hindered, as the pain and incon∣venience of their wounds. The day at length appeared, and I had no sooner informed my generous Master, that the Princess was awake, than he sent me to the woman of the House to enquire of her Health, who returned me word from Parthenissa, that he might know hers by his own. Artabbanes found a misfortune in so much kindness, by finding himself in a feaver. This made me hasten to Zenophon, whose power and care I fear'd my Prince's sickness would need; as soon as I came to his Palace, I desired one of his Domesticks to bring me where he was; who being my Guide, I pass'd unexamined through his Guards, and came into a large Hall, where I found him invironed by a throng of his Officers, and though with Moneses I had left Media in a very green Age, yet I had still some impressions of Zenophon, which the seeing him revived; 'twas with some difficulty I got near-enough to be observed by him; which when I perceived I was, I looked on him so fixtly, that perhaps it made him the more hastily dismiss the greater part of his Officers; who were no sooner gone, than presenting my self to him, I desired to know if he were at leisure to hear a Stranger, who had some things of moment to inform him of, and which it was not improbable but he might be satisfied with? I know not whether he read something in my Face which made him guess or suspect who I was, or whether the Times which then began to be strangely confused, made him believe I came to give him some important advice; but whatever was the Cause, without any ballancing, he com∣manded me to follow him into a Cabbinet, which was contiguous to the Hall we then were in; whither being come, and the Dore lock'd, I ask'd him, if he had never seen any thing that resembled me? After having considered me narrowly, he replyed he had, but that he could not sud∣denly recollect where it had been. I thereupon told him my name, which he had scarcely heard, but I found my self in his Arms, as a reward of that discovery; and though by many testimonies of joy he acquainted

me with his, yet they were infinitely short of those demonstrations of that Passion with which he celebrated the news I told him of my Prince's being so near him, and in a place under his Power; after I had convinced his belief of that Truth by many protestations he necessitated me to make him of it, lifting up his eyes and his hands to Heaven, he cryed out, Great Gods! you could not create my acknowledgments in a way I should more willingly pay them, than by granting me the happi∣ness of serving any of Monese's blood; and if to this blessing you will add that, of permitting me to see his Son seated in the Throne of Me∣dia, I shall esteem my self abundantly satisfied for your having deny'd me one. 'Twas by many resembling expressious that the generous Zeno∣phon evinc'd to me his fidelity to Artabbane's Family, was not at all im∣paired; neither did his desire to the gods in my Prince's favour relish any thing of an ill subject; since Tygranes the then King of Media, either by Nature or choice, was so averse to the fair Sex, that Artabbane's Passion for one of them, could hardly transcend his aversion for all. Zenophon having put a period to the evincements of his joy and grati∣tude, conjur'd me pressingly to conduct him, to him which had raised them; This I obeyed, having first desired him it might be with privacy, for that my Prince's condition if it did not already need circumspection, yet it might; it was therefore by water that we went to his Lodging, which (as the Governour's Palace) stood upon the River Corindas. 'Tis as impossible as needless, to repeat all that past between them of civility; it is sufficient you know, Artabbanes received him with all the demon∣strations of satisfaction and respect, a person so replenish'd with virtue and fidelity could either desire or hope; and Zenophon's joy at the recep∣tion was nothing inferiour to the greatness of what created it. My Prince afterwards informed him of the quality of Sillaces, whom he saluted, and complemented with much humility: Those ceremonies finish'd, Artabbanes, who could not but admire at any man's possessing so high a Government as that of Arsacia, who was so declared a Parti∣zan of his Father's, as Zenophon informed him of it. To which Zenophon replyed, Though you are (Sir) ignorant of this present Government, yet you are not, that the past was so unequal and Tyrannical, that your generous Father quitted not only his interest in it, but in the Kingdom; and not to be an Enemy to Tygrane's Quiet and his own, voluntarily con∣fined himself in Parthia. It was long before we knew what created such ungrounded jealousies in our King, and so strange a way of sup∣pressing them in his Uncle; but now the Mystery is as visible as his dis∣sembling that has so long hindered it from being so. Merinzor, the first Prince of the Blood (after Moneses) aspired by Art and Sin, to acquire that preheminence which Nature had denied him; and having by admi∣rable insinuations made Tygranes as much his Subject by inclination, as he was his by duty; he so successfully represented to him the danger of having the next and certain Heir (by Tygrane's aversion, or disability for Women) to be in the Government or Kingdom; that at length the King by some usages which neither were consistent with Monese's quality or disposition, necessitated your generous Father to an Exilement: This was no sooner effected on which Merinzor's designs were founded, than he appears publickly the Favourite of his King, yet so artificially, that many believed his condition but from thence bore date; whereas some others (though indeed but very few) concluded Monese's Banishment was an effect of his having been so before. Merinzor (as Tygranes has

since told me) assured him he might now Reign by no Law but his Will, since the discontented had no head to give their Body; and that Mo∣neses by being kept out of Media, would be deprived of anticipating his Title to the Crown of it; but to leave as little to Fortune as the nature of humane things would admit, he humbly begged his King's permission to allow him in publick to be an earnest Solicitor for your Father's return, which (as he said) would insinuate him in all the De∣signs that would be laid to effect it, and consequently enable him to prevent them. The deluded Tygranes condescended to this; by which concession, Merinzor not only cast the odium of Monese's Banishment entirely on the King; but also acquired to himself those of your Fa∣ther's Friends, who had not wit enough to discover Merinzor was his Enemy; whereby many designs for his restauration became unfruitful, and by the frequent Execution of the Conspirators, so weakened his Party, that now there are scarcely enough left to act a design, though not prevented by Intelligence. My Fortune, or my suspitions, kept me out of all those unsuccessful Plots, and thereby I find my self (and some few Friends, who I had acquainted with, and made approve of my jea∣lousies) in a posture able to serve our generous Prince; for not only this City, but Ecbatan, Cyrapolis and Europus, are in the power of those, who are resolved, they cannot more justly employ theirs, than against Merin∣zor, and for Moneses and Artabbanes. But Sir (continued Zenophon), Tygranes being convinc'd that your Father being removed, all causes of his Fears were so too, abandoned himself so absolutely to those vices which unlimited power is aptest to inspire, that partly those exorbitant disor∣ders, but more particularly his assuming to himself Monese's Banishment, from whence all our miseries took their original, has so alienated his Sub∣jects Affections, that Merinzor by obliging all, by permitting Tygranes to oblige none, and by a seemingly soliciting your Father's return, having gained those Hearts he made his King lose, began lately so much to un∣vizard his designs, that I discovered and disclosed them to Tygranes; but I had much difficulty to free my self from being thought dishonest, for endeavouring to evince Merinzor was so; which I had not effected, had not the gods (concerned in the discovery of so black an ingratitude), miraculously evidenced it: For the Court being then at Ecbatan, there came a Packet to Merinzor out of Parthia; but the day before he was gone to a House of Pleasure not above 200 Furlongs off; where under a pretence of passing away his Time, he employed it in gaining of Partizans, and in establishing a fortune for himself, which should ruine his King's. The belief I had, that in that Packet there was something of concern∣ment; and the knowledg I had, that it lay not in the Power of inferences, but of demonstrations, to make Tygranes revoke that unlimited Autho∣rity he had so fatally trusted his Favourite with, made me determine to hazard my own ruine to prevent my King's: I say, hazard my own ruine; for if in that Packet I resolved to open, there had been nothing which might have apologiz'd for my doing it, by my inclinations to your Fa∣mily, and Merinzor's Power, I could not have avoided resenting the most violent effects of it. In brief, I seiz'd upon those letters, and hav∣ing by the admirable Art of a Secretary of mine decypher'd them, I found they came from Surena, and discovered palpably a strong and dangerous conspiracy, which was partly to be acted by some Parthian Forces that Prince had promised him. I believe Sir (continued Zeno∣phon) you are not ignorant of Surena's Person, and Power with Arsaces,

which hinders me from giving you a Character of either. Alas (reply'd Artabbanes) I am but too-perfectly instructed in the latter, which has cost me so many troubles, that 'tis no small one to remember them; but I will another time give you their relation, in the mean while I shall be∣seech you to continue yours. After (said Zenophon) I had so success∣fully disclos'd what Tygranes, not I, disbeliev'd, immediately I presented him with what he found a misfortune then to know, but had found it a greater to have longer ignor'd. Never did I see so sudden and so strange an alteration; that in his looks was much inferiour to that in his Go∣vernment, for he perceived 'twas not now by the Title, but the Virtues of a King that he must continue one; and that Merinzor had but for a time cast away his fears, that afterwards he might eternally cast him out of his Throne. Tygranes in Tears told me this truth and many an other, and by great favours convinc'd me his gratitude for my faithfulness and vigilance, was proportionate to them; I told him 'twas not enough to discover Merinzor's infidelity, but he must prevent it; that nothing was more conducive to that end, than without any respite to place men of high fidelity, and no less resolution, in the principal Towns, which would not only hinder Merinzor's possessing them, but deter his Parti∣zans from a conjunction with him, by so prejudicial and pregnant an evincement, that his Conspiracy was disclosed, and partly prevented; that if yet the despair of Merinzor's Faction flung them into Arms, yet the possession of the Towns would so protract the time, that before all of them were lost, He might raise an Army not only to recover them again, but to punish those that necessitated him to do it. That one of the best advantages in a Civil War, was to secure the Cities, they being not only Sanctuaries for small Numbers against great, but the Banks and Magazines of a Kingdom, and without which the Countrey cannot sub∣sist; for 'tis those which take off the fruits of the Earth, and return to the Countrey those of Industry and Art; that possessing them, he would gain the ablest men, which commonly make their residence there, or at least hinder the Enemy from that advantage, which is one of the highest in a Domestick War. I told him many things of this quality which he approved; and because by what I had done, he was also confident of my fidelity, he instantly gave me Commissions to place such Governours in the four chief Cities, for whose Honesty I would answer. In Ecbatan (which you know is Metropolis of this Kingdom) I plac'd Patafernes, Symander's Uncle; Arsacia I elected for my self; and for the other two, Men of whose inclinations I am satisfied, and for whose abilities I will more answer for, than my own. This I did with that celerity which accompanies those actions we embrace with duty and inclination. Ec∣batan by reason of the King's presence and Guards, we secured without delay or hazard, and thrust out Merinzor's Governour and Creatures: the other Three with some little difficulty we effected; but the first thing of all that we attempted, was the seizing on Merinzor's Person, whose intelligence of my taking his Pocket, came immediately to his knowledg, and so he scap'd me; but so narrowly, that had he been as much hurt as fear'd, he had not now been in so promising a condition. I believe (con∣tinued Zenophon) you may think it strange that in the heat of Tygrane's apprehensions, and of his hatred to his late Favourite, I did not embrace so obliging a conjuncture for soliciting your Father's return; I do con∣fess, I was a thousand times upon the point of motioning it; but that which suspended my doing so, was, left it might create some jealousies of

me, and in them, recall the power he had conferred on me, which I intended to make use of, to place Partizans of your Family in the most important Governments; which once being effected, would probably render my solicitation less unsuccessful, by rendring it more dangerous to deny, than to grant my request. This reasoning of mine, the event but too evidently evinc'd was not groundless; for after I had secured the chief Cities with Governours, declared Servants to Moneses, which I palliated to Tygranes, by assuring him I knew none but your Father's Friends that were Enemies to Merinzor; I implored of him by many reasons and reiterated Prayers, to invite Moneses to return; from whose Courage and Judgment, he would doubtless derive those good Services, which by Merinzor's infidelity he needed, and which thereby he had been so long hindered from receiving: I added to this, that had Merin∣zor's infusions of your Father's designs of aspiring to the Crown, been as true, as they were false; yet by his loss of Artabbanes (for alas (Sir) we then were confident of that misfortune, by your being so long concealed to the world) there was no danger of any attempts, since by the course of Nature, Moneses was much nearer his Grave than he, and by the course of the Median Laws, the Princess Lyndadory was excluded from the Crown. But though Tygranes had cast off his affection for Merin∣zor, yet he still retained those impressions he had planted in him when he possess'd it; and consequently either as a Complement to our fidelities upon his own score, or as an unremovable maxime he had establish'd, not to admit of your Father's return, (for if guilty, he must thereby invest him with too ample a power to act his designs; and if innocent, to act his revenge) he not only positively denied me my request, but enjoyned me never to revive it; and in expressions so violent, that instead of making him Monese's friend, I once apprehended he was no longer mine. Judg, Sir (said Zenophon), if to motives of justice, having added that of his interest and fear, I could not prevail; how much more certain I had been of that misfortune, if I had attempted my request upon the score only of the former: I was necessitated notwithstanding so sensible a repulse, to make no publick demonstration of it; yet I was often deter∣mining to betray my King into his advantage, by sending for your Fa∣ther; but the apprehension I then had, that such a proceeding before the effect was evidenced for which I acted it, might cast Tygranes into an eternal ruine, by occasioning him to cast himself into Merinzor's power, hindered me from it; which latter was but too probable: for what Me∣rinzor did perform, he was resolved Moneses would, had he but the Force; and of two Enemies, 'twas a rational faith, he would elect him whom he had so recently honoured with his favour, than him, who had never had any share in it. 'Twas upon many as pregnant reasons as these, that I determined to expect the leisure of the gods, for the restoration of your Family, and in the mean time to act what I could for the ruine of the greatest Enemy of it, which I esteemed much conducive to that end. In pursuance whereof, the King having honoured me with the title of his Lieutenant-General, reserving to himself the Superiority over all (as a King that desires and merits victory, determining to Court her in Per∣son) I came by his Command to this City, to raise such forces as volun∣tarily would fight under the Royal Ensigns; Merinzor too, having already so far advanc'd his preparations, as to have marching out of the Northern parts of this Kingdom, a Body of 30000 Men, which daily increases and with which he hopes to settle, what my successful doubts has so much shaken and indangered.

Zenophon had no sooner done speaking, than Artabbanes by many fresh Civilities congratulated his Command, and his deserving of it; and by particular expressions, made him many signal retributions for the care he had of Moneses, and his Family. My Prince then let Zenophon know that Surena was in Media, and near Arsacia, how miraculously he had avoided the generous Sillace's Sword; and at last, that the fair Parthe∣nissa, the Authoress of his sufferings and desires, was in the same House with him. Zenophon was much amazed at the intelligence of Surena's being in Media; but he was much more satisfied to learn his Prince's Mistress was in a place where he might serve her, and where he might see a Perfection, which he concluded could not be but transcendent, by making so generous a Captive; he went therefore with Artabbanes's and her permission, to the Chamber of that excellent Beauty, which he saw with admirations and confessions, that my Prince's desires and sufferings could not equal in degrees that perfection which had occa∣sioned them. After Zenophon by a silent wonder had complemented her Beauty, by many pressing and humble implorings, he invited her to his Palace, which he said would be less unworthy of her, than the Chamber she was in. Parthenissa acknowledged this civility in expressions which acquainted him with hers; and after the Chyrurgeons had assured her, that the two Princes might without any danger, be removed by Boat to Zenophon's, she condescended to accompany them thither, where they arrived undiscovered; which my Prince was much intent upon, lest his accidental coming into Media, might by the conjuncture of Affairs, relish more of Design than Chance, and consequently prejudice Zeno∣phon, who by the Laws of Hospitality and Gratitude, he was confined to oblige. As soon as the Princess was retired to her Appartment, Ze∣nophon presented her with the fair Emilia, his Daughter and only Child, who he begged her to accept till she could recover one that was more capable to serve her; or if she esteemed none could be so, then he con∣jured her to accept of her for ever. Parthenissa was exceedingly satis∣fied with so obliging a Present; and though Emilia at first sight abso∣lutely gave her self up to the Princess, yet she could not more do so to Parthenissa, than I did the like to her. I cannot, Sir (continued Sy∣mander), but acknowledg a Truth, which if you saw the cause of, you would perhaps upon her account excuse this digression, whose Character I would give you, did I not know that in such attempts, either the Lover thinks he speaks too little, or is thought to speak too much. There is no doubt, had not Artavasdes been too deeply concerned in the hearing of his Friends Loves, and in the infelicities of his own, to act any thing of mirth or suspension; he had at Symander's cost, given himself no small divertisement; for that faithful servant had been so little one to Love, and so contemned the two Princes assurances, that it was a Fate as certain as Death, that now this acknowledgment had furnished his generous Hearer with an ample Theam for Raillery, had not those former considerations silenced all thoughts of that quality. Symander in expectation of this little war, had continued a while silent; but at length perceiving, and troubled at the cause that he mist it, thus pro∣secuted his Narration.

Zenophon leaving Parthenissa in her Appartment, went to see the two Princes's in theirs; who, though his Palace was capacious enough to afford them distinct ones had determined their Lodgings, as their Friend∣ships, should admit of no division. The residue of that day and the

night, was dedicated to Rest; but Artabbanes took so little, that the next morning his Princess being informed of it, came to visit him; and perceiving by his indisposition, and the loss of so much blood, that he was very pale, she became so too, and what misfortune had created in Artabbanes, Sympathy did in his Mistriss, who by the eloquence of her words as well as looks, acquainted him with her sufferings, which she said, recived no small accession, that his proceeded from the service he had done her. If (Madam, said my Prince) my present condition ought to produce any operations in you, they should be of a contrary quality to those you ascribe them to; for my Crime upon its own score abundantly merited a higher punishment than these unconsiderable wounds; I have therefore much more cause to rejoyce than repine, that what I should have suffered as an expiatory Penance for my Sin, I do, for the duty of serving you; your goodness having rendered my punishment needless, 'twas just my services should impose on me what your Mercy declined the doing; and that a part of that blood should be shed for your safety, which was all preserved by your forgiveness; but Madam, (continued Artabbanes) may I not again stand in need of it, when I have taken the confidence humbly to beg the knowledg of your Adventures, till my wound permit me to acquaint you with mine? This entertainment will be the best Charm against their Pain; for whil'st I can hear and see the fair Parthenissa, my other Senses will resign their functions to those. If (she replyed) the relation of my Story can produce so ambition'd an effect, I shall find in it an ample recompence for all my sufferings; which the sooner to receive, I will obey you.

The Sequel of Parthenissa's History.

After (said Parthenissa) that the generous Sillaces by an attempt to silence our fears for you, had raised them for himself, by ingaging in so dangerous and unpromising a journey, wherein he evinced the vastness of his Friendship; (for there is hardly any of so perfect a qua∣lity, as to undertake that upon certainties, which his did but in hopes.) I continued for a while free from all troubles, but those which both your absences created, and those I sympathized in of your excellent Sisters, and the fair Zephalinda's; for Surena, nor Arsaces on his score, did not renew their persecution; I admired at it, as much as I was satisfied with it; for though Surena's words assured me not of his Passion, yet his languishings did; and in all his visits he so pressingly implored my par∣don, that I found he was but too much concerned in the obtaining it; which having granted to his condition, and not to him; that being al∣tered, I had also altered my concession; this I did as a necessary justice, though he gave it a contrary Name: For those prayers which by that proceeding he employed for obtaining of my Pardon, he would other∣wise (as I apprehended) have imployed for obtaining my affection; and the obstacle of his Crime being removed, it would have left Arsaces none, whereby he might have continued his solicitations for his Favou∣rite. It was above six Moons that I remained in this condition; which, though but too full of infelicity by your absences and Surena's presence; yet it seems the Gods thought it not full enough; for by the folly of his Passion he was finally reduced to as dangerous a condition, as your Sword had done: 'Twas then that Orodes passing over all considera∣tions, but those of his Favourite, came to visit me, and not only implored

my Pardon, but my Love for him. I represented to him, that one which could stand in need of the former, could hardly merit the latter; that he was a Person whose Treachery rendered him as unfit for his Friendship, as Mine; and that his actions rather called upon his Justice, than Pro∣tection. Madam (said Orodes) that infidelity you reproach him with, is that which you should esteem him for; the least production of a common Passion, is to endeavour the having it rewarded by suffer∣ings, and by submissions; but one that could not but prove extraordi∣nary, by the Beauties being so that inspir'd it, you cannot admire at an effect, resembling its cause; and that your perfections are not common, is not a greater Truth, than that a Crime in Surena is the like. Your Artabbanes himself I believe durst not have done so much; he loves his Reputation more than Parthenissa; and who dares do most for her, merits most from her. I know (Sir, I reply'd) that the generous Artabbanes is more a friend to Virtue, than to Love; and I am confident he knows I am so too; 'tis therefore only on that account I believe he durst not have done what Surena did; neither is it any glory, that he transcends Artabbanes in nothing but Vice; which is a preheminence he will as certainly resign him, as surpass him in all actions of an opposite quality; but (Sir) I hope you cannot seriously expect my affection for a Person, who pretends no title to it, but by one which renders him unworthy of it. I am (said Orodes) so serious in my request, that to deny it me, will cast me into as bad a condition, as his whose preservation I solicite; my Fate and Surena's being unseparable. But Arsaces finding I was as con∣stant in my resolves, as his Favourite in his fruitless passion, at length converted those Prayers for my Affection, into some, for giving him a visit; and that at least I would preserve his life, if I would not render it happy. The King's importunities forc'd that from me, which his rea∣sons could not; and taking me with him in his Chariot, he brought me to Surena's Palace: I found the Master of it in a condition that con∣vinced me. Pity is none of the ways to Love; for had it been, Surena could have been no longer deny'd mine. You know (continued Par∣thenissa) that his good meen yields to none but to Two which are in this Chamber; and yet I found it as remarkable for the change, as it had been for the perfection. As soon as Arsaces had acquainted him I was come to give him a visit, he raised himself faintly up, and with a lan∣guishing voice told me, I know not Madam, with what design 'tis you do me this honour; is it either to see the effects of your Power, or to increase them? 'Tis (I replyed) purely from my King's Commands, that you derive this visit; and if mine have any influence over you, do not I beseech you, by continuing so ill, necessitate him to command from me another. Alas Madam (said Surena) why do you then by your sight give me so great a dis-invitation to obey you? who can see your Beauty, and resolve to banish himself eternally from it? your Eyes de∣stroy what your cruelty makes me elect; and had I not had the felicity of beholding you now, my sufferings in few days had made me obey a command, which your words has not now more plainly told me, than your usage has. Yes Madam (he continued) since 'tis impossible to de∣cline my Flame but with my Life, I am taking that fatal and only way of extinguishing it; and I hope in a short time so to change my con∣dition, that it shall render me as worthy your Pity, as my ill Fate has rendered me unworthy your esteem. That Death (I replyed) which you seem to imply, is not to obey, but injure me; and I had rather in∣dure

your importunities, than avoid them at that rate; 'tis your change, not your ruine I desire. Ah Madam (Surena answer'd) the impossibility that any Beauty can transcend yours, is not greater, than whil'st I live, that I can decline adoring it; and if I vow'd your Eyes could act all things, I excepted the impossibility of their quenching fires, which they themselves inspir'd: that miracle is deny'd them by a power, which renders that deficiency a greater: so that if you command me to live, you consequently command my Passion to live with me; and you must resolve to suffer the effects of the latter, if you enjoyn the continuance of the former: I tell you (Madam) ingenuously what you must permit, if you permit me to live, That either I may put a period to my Torments, by putting a period to my Life; or not be deluded into fresh Miseries by fresh Expectations, which will vanish as soon as my sickness does, and add to the Miseries of losing my Cure, that of losing my Hopes. So resolute a demand (continued Par∣thenissa) was so far from inducing me to say more in his favour, that it made me repent I had said so much; which I had no sooner told him, than Arsaces demonstrated as great a despair, as what I had said, did in∣volve Surena in. And truly the King by such moving conjurations and humblings, so far transported me beyond my resolution, that the conclu∣sion of our visit was a promise I made Surena of a pardon for all was past. But le••t this might invite him to actions that might need it again, to qualifie my forgiveness, I told him, he derived it only from Arsace's commands, and his own condition. He prest me extreamly before I left him, to say he derived it immediately from me; but that I was so far from telling him, that it made me profess, if he was not satisfied with what I had already spoke, I should rather recall my concession, than any way increase it. Surena (as he said) by this visit, was in few days able to pay me one, which he did, and entertained me with retri∣butions, not desires. To invite him to a perseverance therein, I used him with much more Civility and Freedom than either his offence or my resentment for it had made me formerly practice: Neither was I out of hope, but that receiving favours, when he desired none, and none when he desired any, his reason might invite him then to what it should have done before. I must acknowledg, I could hardly have been civil to him upon any other score; and I had had no small difficulty to perswade my modesty to listen to such constant expressions of Gratitude with satisfa∣ction, but that I found it less troublesom to hear his thanks, than his re∣quest; and to have him acknowledg obligations, than desire them: For a quarter of a year Surena gave me no other troubles, but those of his Visits; but then he began to add to them, those of his accustomed im∣portunities; I know not whether he believed, what I had elected to sup∣press his addresses, was to invite them; or whether those Civilities I did him to reward his silence, was to solicite the breaking it; but I know, if these were his Thoughts, as soon as he reveal'd, he had no reason any longer to retain them; for I gave him so resolute a reprehension, that he found I had been kind, but to keep him from imploring my being so; and that he could not elect a more certain way to be deny'd my affection, than to solicite it; I cannot certainly acquaint you whether this usage, or some internal infirmity which then began to manifest it self, was the cause of his Sickness; but I can, that suddenly after, he fell into a very dangerous one; and though it were equally so to his former, and that Arsaces did me the honour constantly to visit me; yet he never desired

I should do so to Surena: But the satisfaction I received thereat, I soon observed, was too dearly purchased; for in some four or five successive visits, I observed Orodes had so incessantly his Eyes fixt on mine, and uttered such disordered and disjointed discourses, that I began to doubt what his next seeing me made me but too certain of: for after all the Court which waited on him, were retired into a Gallery contiguous to my Chamber, Arsaces spoke these words, with as much trouble as I heard them. Madam, Though you should infinitely admire that I do not now solicite you for my dying Friend; yet I do as much, that I have done it so long, and that I should employ those prayers for another, which your Beauty makes me stand in need of for my self: I believe fair Parthenissa (he continued) you cannot so much admire at my making now this declaration, as that I did it not sooner; and the greatest wonder next your Beauty, is, that I have so long declined adoring it: whilst my Love was kindling, my Friendship transcended it; but now it burns, it has consumed my Friendship, and I fear will consume me, unless you afford me as much Love, as you inspire. This assurance cannot be more confident than true; and I esteemed I had no higher motive to induce you to save your King, than to acquaint you that you have the power to do it. I believe (said Parthenissa, to her generous Auditors) by your own surprize, it will not be very difficult to perswade you of Mine; but as soon as the first disorders of it were a little mitigated, I turned my Eyes towards the King, and sound those I had so lately suppress'd could not transcend those which were visible in him; and though this gave me too palpable an assurance of a Truth, which none could have been more ambitious to have discovered, than I was troubled to have done it; yet I told him: This discourse (Sir) which you have made me of your Love, is doubtless to revenge my not conferring mine on Surena; and I consider this Raillery with joy, as my belief, that 'tis the only penance you will impose on the necessity of my disobedience. I rather hope (Arsaces reply'd) that your esteeming that a Raillery, which I now tell you in so much earnest, is the only penance you will prescribe me, for not having told you of it sooner: or if you esteem me so un∣worthy the honour of your Conversation, as in it to speak any thing unserious, your Beauty might more justly have made you assume that thought, when I did implore your bestowing it on another, than when I do, your conferring it on me: But Madam, if you believe it as great an injury to your modesty to acknowledg your conquest, as I know 'tis to your Eyes to decline it; yet your reason cannot be but convinc'd of your victory, when I assure you I have seen Surena languish with as little reluctancy, as you have done it; when even his silence pleaded for him, as much as his conditition: for I suspected he kept it, out of a know∣ledg that I was become his Rival, which he has discovered either from my not persevering his Intercessor, or my sighs, which are now more inflamed than those of grief used to be, has told him, what I had not the confidence to do. This proceeding, fair Parthenissa, affords you no low, nor perhaps unpleasing Character of my Passion; for at the same instant that I but implore your affection, I act your revenge, which gives me a hope that what obliges you, cannot be detested by you. These words he animated with so passionate a tone and action, that even those did also speak: but as I was about to do so, I was relieved by the fair Zephalinda, in whose presence Arsaces entertained me a while in words of a contrary quality, either that he would conceal his Passion from all,

or particularly from Surena's Sister; and though the King continued a while in my Chamber; yet by the disorders and disjointedness of his discourse, I found how much he was troubled, that Zephalinda had inter∣rupted him. But he could not be more offended thereat, than I was satisfied; for thereby I procured some time towards the forming my answers, and the course I was to follow in this new emergency; for I was hopeful to improve his passion to a better end, than that for which he had assumed it; and make it the means of bringing Artabbanes to Parthe∣nissa, which was designed to deprive him of her. As soon as Orodes was retired, Zephalinda told me, At last Madam, I believe I shall make my visits prove what hitherto I fear they did not, a satisfaction to you, proportionate to that I receive in paying you them; for but even now I have had the effect of my incessant solicitations: Surena has given that to my Prayers, which he should long since have done to Reason and Vertue: Yes (Madam) he has protested to me by what he ador'd, as much as now he does but admire, That if he has any Passion for you, it is only to serve you, and that he will employ as much Care and Art for your union with Artabbanes, as he has done to binder it; and I am come to implore you from him, to give him a visit, that he may give you those demonstrations of his conversion, which may induce you as much to be∣lieve the reality of it, as already I do. I know not (said Parthenissa, prosecuting her discourse) whether it be the nature of all my Sex, to fear the Truth of what they most desire; but I am certain 'tis mine; and consequently I had many pregnant jealousies, that Surena but seemingly yielded that to his King, which he really preserved for me; and that what he now did, was an action of Policy, and not Conversion: I was often about to tell Zephalinda my doubts, but left they might be an offence (which mine own defects, and Arsaces letting me know Surena did not know his Passion, made me the apter to fancy), I did at last, (more convinc'd by Zephalinda's Prayers, than Reasons) condescend to visit her Brother, into whose Chamber I was no sooner come (for yet his indisposition made him keep it) then staying his Sister, and sending all the rest out of it, he told me, with a confidence which I believed nothing but Truth could put on, at least that a Lover could not, speaking to his Mistris: That I have had a Passion, Madam, for you, is not so strange, as that I now divest my self of it; and those hopes which despair should have made me lay down, I do now, by way of reparation for their having been so offensive and dangerous; I am also so sensible of having inter∣rupted a Passion, which I now as much esteem as I have envy'd; that I find as transcendent a satisfaction in having mist my desires, as I should in having obtained them: Those Prayers therefore which I hitherto em∣ployed for your affection, I do now, Madam, for your Pardon, which is now as necessary to my Life, as that was to my Felicity; which you may establish without being obnoxious to your own; formerly you were to be vicious to make me happy, now you are but to be virtuous to do it; your Inconstancy then could only be my cure, but 'tis your Mercy now that only can be so; which to obtain, I protest by all the gods, and by those which are more particularly concerned in the punishment of per∣jury, I will never have any desires for you, but to see you by an Hyme∣neal union in his embraces, who now, and never but till now, I esteemed the least unworthy of you. What need I tell you more (said Parthenissa), than that Surena by such expressions and vows gave a beginning to that Faith, which in progress of time he so well improved and setled, that

his change was as absolutely my belief, as desire. But what the Favou∣rite declined, the King assumed, and I read the greatness of his Love, by the conquest it had obtained over his Friendship; he gave me besides some signal evincements of it every day, though I was not a little dili∣gent to retrench all opportunities, that by my actions I might acquaint him with my intentions, which I esteemed the civillest and certainest way of denial. I must acknowledg I was both satisfied and troubled at a Passion so replenish'd with respect, as that of Orodes was; for though on the one side, it secured me from those violences, his power and flame might inspire him with; yet on the other, it hindered me from suppres∣sing his hopes and importunities. Surena being recovered of the indispo∣sition both of his Body and Mind, gave me as many visits under the notion of a Friend, as he had done under that of a Lover, and as a fresh evincement he was no more the latter; he told me one day, Certainly, Madam, the gods are not a little concerned in the having me lay down my Passion, by ordaining two things for the reward of that performance, which I most ambitioned, That of obliging you, and Orodes; who has this morning disclosed to me a Flame I should have wondered at, had he not told me, 'twas you that inspir'd it: By the experimental knowledg I have had of your Beauty, I was not so much surpriz'd at that declara∣tion, as when after he had made it, that he could conjure me to pardon his being my Rival, and that I would no longer continue his: I esteemed it strange, that he which resented the influence of your Eyes, could think me capable of not doing the like; and that I should decline the power of a God, to obey that of a King; I told him this, but to indear an obli∣gation I had prophetically conferred on him; but after I had cast him in∣to Troubles, great enough to let him know those my obedience would involve me in, I assur'd him of it. Truly Madam, he contracted a joy so great at the promise I would lay down my passion, that I believe no∣thing can transcend it, but an assurance that you will accept and reward his. I did this readily, that he might conclude 'twas with willingness, that thereby convincing him I was no longer his Rival, I might become his Confident, and pay you those duties, which one more concerned in his Interest than yours, would never do; I had also this farther hope, that since out of a respect to him, I could divest my self of my Flame, it might upon the generous Artabbanes's return, take from Arsaces all excuses of continuing his; since it manifested there was actually a Power in your Adorers to decline that Title, which without this President, he might have alledged was an impossibility. I knew not (continued Par∣thenissa) whether I had cause to resent this as an obligation; for though as Surena stated it, there might be some possibility of its success; yet that was so small, as it left it disputable whether there were any, or no; for examples of virtue are more often commended, than practiced by those, who promise themselves a higher satisfaction in declining their imitation; especially too, when the quality of the Person preserves him from suffering, but in Mens opinions; whereas if Surena had still pre∣tended an Affection for me, it might have denyed Arsaces a liberty, which this Concession absolutely afforded him; and thereby, by having two Lovers, have been preserved from having one: I let Surena know this was my opinion; but he was so wedded to his, that he assured me, were he to act his part again, and had only heard those reasons, and not that they were Mine, he had followed his own, which nothing could induce him to believe, were the worst, but my thinking them so. At

length Arsaces, convinc'd that Surena was not his Rival, made him really his Confident, who so artificially acted his part, that he satisfied us both; and to make his King the less solicite me, he gave him still better answers from me, than ever were given him by me: I yielded to this Proceed∣ing by Surena's advice; who pretending the greatest knowledg in Orodes's humour, made me esteem him the fittest to manage it: But whilst the Court of Parthia was in this Condition, the Kingdom was engaged in a bloody War: For the Tabienians knowing their Crimes merited no Mer∣cy, neither expected nor implored the King's; your unfortunate diffe∣rence with Surena, having rendered you uncapable to command the Army, and the generous Sillaces having declined that honour to restore us your Company, it was conferred on Ariobarzanes, who you know is a Prince merits that Title, and wanted success in nothing, but in what you had too much; I cannot tell whether his desire to serve his King, or his hopes to become more fortunate in the fair Zephalinda by the Orato∣ries of Honour, than he had been thitherto by those of Love, made him accept that Command; but I can, that he did: and though by the situation of the Countrey, and the despair of those that inhabited it, the War was protracted; yet Ariobarzanes had that consolation, that he never lost an opportunity to fight; and never did fight, but he was vi∣ctorious: In the end his Courage and Conduct made him entirely so over the Tabienians; but at his return from that victory, he found thereby he had nothing facilitated another, which he a thousand times more ambitioned; for Zephalinda was as uncapable of having a Passion for any, as all that saw her, were, of declining one for her. This inter∣nal War concluded; by the advance of Pompey, an exteriour one began: Orodes, and the Prince Pacorus, with a vast Army marched to the confines of Armenia, and the Prince Phraates with another into Syria, to infest the Roman Colonies, hoping that by making two Wars abroad, they should hinder any to be made at home. I purposely omit telling you what Complements Arsaces made me at his departure; and how he pro∣tested, if he ambition'd Lawrels, 'twas only to lay them at my feet. But by the as strange, as sudden Peace Pompey made with the Armenians, he found himself necessitated to advance with a part of his Army into Syria to fortifie that of Phraates, which abundantly needed it, by the Roman General's being more concerned to relieve his Friends, than to make any new acquisitions. Pompey by this re-inforcement of his Enemies, or called home by the dawning confusions in Italy, setled his Affairs by Treaty with Orodes, and so returned to Rome, and the King to Nineveh, where he was received in Triumph, his Flatterers alledging he had obtained a victory, by not losing one to the Romans; Pacor••s had not so much as this pretence to a triumphant reception; for he was entirely defeated by the generous Artavasdes; who us'd his success so handsomly, that his very Enemies did hardly envy, or deplore it. Surena, who amongst many others enjoyed the benefit of his Civility, assured me it had pro∣duced the effect I mention'd. The winter of this year, the Court con∣stantly resided at Nineveh, and Arsaces as constantly persecuted me, though I must acknowledg I avoided many importunate days, by Surena's Art and Friendship. About this time there happened an Accident, which though for a while it exempted me from Arsace's Addresses; yet soon after it afforded him a Liberty to continue them with more assiduity and hope: 'Twas the Death of his Queen; who having been in some dan∣ger whilst she was in labour of Phraates, had solemnly protested, if Iuno

Lucinia (who you know we acknowledg Guardian of the Genial Bed) would free her from it, she would wholly sequester her self from the World, and dedicate her the residue of her Life. This the goddess granted, and this the Queen performed; and though the accomplish∣ment of this vow was esteemed a great misfortune; yet it was a greater, that she had not made it after the generous Pacorus Birth. The solemnity of the funeral being celebrated for one Queen, Orodes attempted to make another, by offering me that Title in such earnest and pressing words, that I was as much troubled to find they were real, as another would have been to have doubted it. Whilst the Queen was living, I had some pretence to decline his Addresses, and to render that an impossi∣bility from his condition, which really was one from mine: Though he often told me, That his Queen by having voluntarily banished her self from his Bed, had given him provocation enough to make another assume her place: That though it were a custom amongst the Kings of Parthia to have but one wife, yet it was not a law; which though it had been, yet the cause of his infringing it, would sufficiently apologize for it, and that my Beauty would render the preserving that practice a stranger thing, than the violating of it. To this I answered, That it was a preg∣nant evincement Bygamy was extream odious, since custom without law had so long hindered our Kings from it: That there was a sufficient determent in the very act, since no penalty was imposed on the committing it: That I should receive more horror from being the cause of violating so sacred and ancient a Practice, than advantage by the honour I might thereby derive; and that that custome of our Kings having but one wife, was so ingrasted in the Hearts of all the Parthians, that I should not only be considered by them, but by my self, as his Concubine, rather than his Queen: 'Twas with many resembling-reasons, and as many pressing conjurations, that during the Life of the Queen I preserved my self from that Title: But now the gods having removed that pre∣tence, they left me without any, especially since I had always represented her as the greatest, and indeed as the only obstacle; which I had done, not only by Surena's Counsel, but by that of my Reason; for I found none so civilly unanswerable, nor so long like to continue so, as that. Orodes when he made me the offer of a Crown, told me with it, that doubtless the just gods, who knew the vastness and clearness of his Flame, had purposely removed all obstructions that might hinder my reward∣ing it. This unexpected accident, and his so resolute and pressing de∣mands, cast me into great perplexities, which I may justly term so, though they were created not from what I was to resolve, but what to answer. At length, lest he might esteem my silence a Concession, I told him, By giving me (Sir) too great an opinion of your Passion, you may create in me a proportionate fear to receive it; for if as soon as your Queen is in her Grave, you take another into her Bed, you will demonstrate how little esteem you make of a Wife, and consequently make me ap∣prehend being yours; besides (Sir), so precipitate a proceeding, may induce the World to believe 'twas not the gods, but the King that re∣moved his obstructions; I shall therefore (Sir) conjure you, as you esteem my satisfaction, or your Kingdoms, protract your desires till I may without prejudice receive them. Arsaces told me I might rather create inferences of the greatness of his Flame, than Fears of its reality, by his passing over all considerations which came in competition with it; but since I did not decline, but suspend the recompence of it, he would

to satisfie my nice scruples, indure some days of Torment; for so (he said) he must term all those, which he was to spend in the condition he then was in. He withdrew himself not long after, and gave me leisure to reflect on the cruelty of my condition; for if on the one side I reso∣lutely acknowledged my affection, and unalterable resolution for Arta••∣banes, I should thereby not only eternally confirm his Banishment, and consequently not only deprive my self of Him, but also of that delive∣rance which I solely and absolutely expected from him, and so exaspe∣rate Orodes, that it would inevitably (as Surena protested to me, who was perfectly vers'd in his Nature) make him run to those extreams, which he could not think on without Horror; and to prevent which, I had treated him with so little cause of disgust: and on the other side, if I disclosed not my affection for you, I left my self by the Queens unfor∣tunate Death, not many dayes of disguisement, which would no sooner be effluxt, than I must absolutely fall into one of those extreams I so justly apprehended, and thithetto I had so artificially and painfully avoided. These sad reflexions, though they were much extenuated by the constant visits and consolations of Lyndadory and Zephalinda; yet at length they had so efficacious an operation on me, that by degrees they cast me into an indisposition, which increas'd as the allotted-time for the King's mourning expired. The gods shall be my witness, I implored them with constant Tears and Prayers, to send me some such Sickness as might ruine this little and unfortunate Beauty, which was so likely else to ruine me: I did this (generous Artabbanes) out of a true character I had contracted of your virtue, which I concluded could not despise one that wanted Beauty, but by having lost it for you; and who apprehended not the losing your affection, in giving you an evincement as great as un∣fortunate, of her own. Artabbanes by an action altogether humble and acknowledging, interrupted his Princess, to make his words do the like, which to the best of my remembrance were these: Though there are not any things I so passionately ambition as the transcendent felicity of receiving testimonies of my Princess esteem, and of satisfying her, I adore the Beauty of her Mind at least as much as that of her Face; yet I had much rather be resolved of the former, and convince her of the latter, by assurances and by vows, than by so fatal a manifestation; neither would the gods give so undeniable a proof of their want of om∣nipotency, as to destroy a perfection they cannot restore or repeat; 'twas better a thousand times the criminal, Artabbanes, should lose his hopes, than the world so unimitable a Beauty; and Arsaces could not be so unjust in having so persecuting a Passion for it, as you, Madam, in wishing it so dear and criminal a cure. I did not only (said the fair Parthenissa) with it that cure, but rather than he should want it, I would have conferred it on him by my Death; and 'twas but fit I should act that for the preserva∣tion of my affection, which only can put a period to it. My Prince would have made her some proportionate retributions to what had made him esteem it necessary, had he not esteemed it more so, to obey his Princess, who imposed on him the keeping of silence; and as a further confinement to it, she thus continued her discourse: Whilst I was lan∣guishing away a Time which yet I thought much more too short, than Arsaces the contrary; the generous Pacorus never left soliciting his Fa∣ther, till he had procured a second Army to repair the disgrace of having lost the first; which he had no sooner obtained, than he did too a Vi∣ctory against the Armenians; which had wanted nothing of meriting

that Name, had it been won against the same General, to whom Pacorus had lost one; but perhaps had he been present, who should have perfe∣cted his success, it might have hindered it. Artavasdes thought he de∣rived this Civility from Symander, till he had protested he did that Truth from Parthenissa; whose words and Story the Faithful Servant thus prosecuted. My indisposition (the Princess continued) proceed∣ing absolutely from that of the Mind, had a languishing and slow ope∣ration on the Body, which the Physicians said nothing but time could render dangerous. Arsaces having assumed this belief, the less incon∣veniently to pass away the remainder of the Morning Year, or to usurp the Glory of his Sons success, or (as he protested to me) to avoid seeing my indisposition, which his sympathy would make him assume; with an Army raised in haste, he marched so to the siege of Tygranocerta, which Pacorus the next day after his Victory had besieged. Artabbanes to ex∣empt the fair Parthenissa from an unnecessary trouble, acquainted her how he had from the generous Ventidius, received at large the rela∣tion of all those transactions in Armenia, which he promised that night to Communicate to Sillaces. I have then (said the fair Parthenissa) but to inform you, that Arsaces came to Nineveb before Pacorus and Altezeera; which though he alleged was but to render her reception the more considerable, was indeed to summon me of my inferred engage∣ment, the last day of his mourning, being that of his return. The con∣tinuance of my indisposition gave me an accepted excuse, which I would have constantly purchased at the same rate. Neither did I despair of both; and that which gave me those hopes was, the having lost all Mine of your returns; for now 'twas above two Years, since we had remain'd in a perfect ignorance of your Fortunes; which made me apprehend Oro∣de's affection for me, and his knowledg of mine for you, had made him destroy what I wanted but the certainty of, to do the like unto my self: But Surena by passionate Oaths of Arsace's innocence, removed my jealousies of him; but nothing could my fears for you, which I hoped would have so impaired my small Beauty, that by my loss of it, you had not suffered the loss of me: But not long after I found the flattery of those imaginations, which Arsaces by a visit entirely banish'd; for after he had commanded (having first obtained my permission) all the Com∣pany to retire, he told me, That indisposition (Madam) which I did hitherto consider as my punishment alone, I now do as yours also, for the just Gods have imposed it on you, to revenge your not rewarding a Flame as bright and pure as those Eyes, and that Virtue which created it. The year of mourning, my fair Princess, is now expired; Your so long declining to be my Queen, made my Mind wear that Livery, as much as my Body did, for the loss of my other: let not your coldness make me any longer carry it; neither, Madam, can you do it without publishing you have not delay'd, but refus'd to reward my Passion; for since to deny me my cure, you decline your own, that belief will be with more reason assumed, than it can be rejected. Sir (I replyed) you might rather infer from the strange continuance of my indisposition, that the gods are not a little ingaged to prevent an union so unworthy the great Arsaces, and consequently so apprehended by me: Therefore (Sir) you cannot consider that as my punishment, which is both the gods and my desire; but could my receiving your affection be as efficacious as you alledg, judg then, I beseech you, thereby, how much I am concern'd in not committing that fault, since to prevent it, I decline not only my own

cure, but my King's. You may, my fair Princess (said Arsaces), rather conclude that your indisposition, if not sent you as a punishment from the gods, is at least sent you as an evincement my Flame is confined to you, more than to your Beauty; and that they are not a little concerned in the manifestation of this truth, since they elect so dear a way to evince it; and rather than not prove the greatness of the one, impair the greatness of the other: If, Madam, I had the power to obey your Commands of a longer expectancy, I should not implore their revo∣cation; for the highest honour next to obeying, is receiving them; do not therefore, fair Parthenissa, expect a testimony of my respect, from what will give you an ill one of my Flame; and believe it, Madam, that must be an impossibility, which your commands and satisfaction cannot make me obey. He entertained me with many professions and requests of this Nature, before he left me: And a little after, Surena came to visit me; but with a Countenance as full of sadness, as my Heart, which he brought no small accession to, by assuring me he fear'd our Griefs had the same source: Alas, I found his apprehensions were but too justly grounded, when he further assured me, that at his meeting Arsaces as he came out of my Chamber, he had told him, that he now found what he had considered as a delay, was a refusal; but that he was determined to make all those that meant to delude him, find in the end that they did delude themselves. He said this too (continued Surena) in one of those Tones which he uses when he is unchangea∣bly in earnest; which makes me conclude, he will shortly make use of Power, to obtain what he cannot by Intreaty. Alas, Surena (I replyed), is there no way but Death to avoid a Tyranny I more justly detest? Tru∣ly, Madam, he answered, I am confident there is no way of preven∣tion left by Flight; for under the Title of his future Queen, he has already given you a Guard, which is not so much to defend, as to detain you; and could we deceive their intelligence, or corrupt their Faith, what retreat could you propound? for all the Kings of Asia would fear the receiving a Beauty, which unavoidably will carry a War after it as great as it self; and by making a while their King∣domes a Sanctuary for you, render them in a short time none for themselves; for Arsaces will employ all the forces of his Empire, to repossess what he values more than it; which will hinder any Prince from so dangerous a Charity. I must then (I replyed) be my own Sanctuary; and the first insolence Arsaces offers me, shall be the last; for when he loses the respect due unto my Sex, I will lose that due unto his Quality, and let him know I lived only for Artabbanes, which when I may no longer do in this world, I will go and expect him in another, where all Power is employed to preserve, not perse∣cute a generous Passion. But, Madam (said Surena) should the gods call unto them the blessed Artabbanes who is the cause of this Con∣stancy, would not the effect then cease? and might not Orodes expect your Affection, when you could no longer confer it on his Rival? If, said I (much offended at so strange a question), the gods call Artabbanes to a fitter residence for him, I shall esteem it so for me, and soon after give him my Company, either by the help of my ••rief, or Resolution. I had scarce ended these words, when I found Surena at my Feet, where in expressions as humble, and moving, as his posture, he implored a fresh pardon for having persecuted and injured a Flame so pure, that it shew'd him he had acted a Sin, in only adoring the possessor of it; which to re∣pair,

he would leave no means unessayed; and if all others fail'd, he would involve the Parthian Empire in as great troubles, as the King of it could involve me. This proceeding made me change those words into retributions, which I intended to have imployed in reproaches; which his seeming solicitation for the King, made me esteem him wor∣thy of Surena was as much satisfied with my Gratitude, as I was with the cause of it; and to misemploy no time, he went immediately to Arsaces to search further into his resolutions. All that day, and the next, I heard nothing either from him or the King; the last consoled me for the first; but the night of the Third, Surena came into my Chamber somewhat late, and told me, That the cause why he had not so long visited me, and why he then did it at so unseasonable an hour, was to do me service, and to bring me the News he had done it. For (said he) at length, Madam, I have perswaded Orodes that your coldness pro∣ceeds from your indisposition, of which you might be soon recovered, did you but change the Air: That the Castle of Eden (which stands in the Island that bears the same name) is a place whose strength and scitua∣tion was as fit for your cure, as safety; and that if with your Sickness, you did not cast off your disdain, there would be then no excuse left you, and a sufficient one given him to act his desires by those wayes he should imagine soonest feasible and conducive to them: I was, Madam (continued Surena), necessitated to give him hopes of success, to hinder him from acting it; and 'twas thereby that I have procured your license to go into this Castle, where I shall have more opportunities to act your security, than I can have here; for the Garison (as the Castle) is mine; and if Orodes should continue his Passion, I hope so to order your affairs, that you shall never be the Sacrifice of it. I made Surena many retributions proportionate to the obligations. The next day I had the honour to receive a visit from the Princess Altezeera, who was newly come to Nineveh; in whose Person and Conversation, I found almost Charms enough to suppress that dissatisfaction I had contracted for her inconstancy to the generous Artavasdes, who I knew could not but de∣serve her Love, because he did possess Artabbanes's Friendship. I was disenabled from making her my Retributions at her own Appartment, or making a greater acquaintance with her, which my first seeing her gave me a passionate desire of; for the King, intent upon every thing which might probably contribute to my health, the succeeding morning gave me a visit, and conjured me, as he condescended to every thing for my satisfaction, so by a resembling return I would reward his care and passion. I was exempted from giving him any reply, by the arrival of Lyndadory and Zephalinda, to whom I had given advice of my sudden remove, and whose companies in my retreat I had desired, and obtained: Arsaces observing by their presence, he could neither continue his dis∣courses, nor expect any returns to them, led me to a Gally which was provided for us, and then, as a civility, accompanied us to the Castle of Eden, only (as he said) to see if there wanted any thing for our recep∣tion. We had not many Furlongs thither; yet our ascending the Cur∣rent (because the violence of it) took up the whole Day; so that Arsaces continued there all the Night, which (as Surena told me) he spent in giving the Captain of my Guard (that followed me) instructions to prevent my escape, should I have any such design; and promising to his care, recompences, such as nothing should transcend but his punish∣ments, should he neglect it. The day following, Artabbanes (taking

away Surena's Garison, alledging it unfit they should be where his Guards were) after some assurances of his Passion, and desires to receive and reward it, returned to Nineveb; which perhaps he did the sooner, from a belief, that his absence would be as contributary to my health, as any other prescription. The Isle of Eden is a place so replenish'd with all the Beauties of Art and Nature, that doubtless the Jews (a Nation not very remote), have some reason to justifie it the scituation of the Earthly Paradice; for I believe 'tis as difficult to find in it a defect, as to wish it an addition. For some Moons in this pleasing residence, we past a Life that had no Clouds, but what our fears and sufferings for the absence of you two, created; but to these not long after we added that of Orode's Company, who one day told me, he could no longer deprive himself of Mine, and that I must prepare next morning to return to Nine∣veh, to assume a Title I had but too long declined. Though I made many pressing implorings to suspend a little longer my return to a place which had so much indangered my health, and my leaving one had so much restored it; yet he was as deaf to my Prayers, as I had been to his; for immediately he gave order for my removal next Day, and the same went to Nineveh (as he said) to make my reception the less un∣worthy of me. Surena begg'd his permission to remain in Eden that Night, to do the last honours of his House, and to wait on me in my return; but Arsaces, either from wilfulness, or suspition, would not per∣mit it. They were no sooner gone, than Zephalinda and Lindadory came to my Appartment to consult on so great an extremity, which was the more so, by Surena's necessitated and unexpected remove; on whose advice and promises, I had establish'd my greatest confidence; but alas, we found in our consultations rather subjects of despair, than relief; for the more we reflected on my danger, the higher we always found it. At length I told them, that what confined me from hopes of escaping, taught me what to elect; and though the cruel gods hindered my being Artab∣banes's; yet they had not the power to hinder me from not being any others. This I spoke with a Countenance which did speak my resolu∣tions, and this immediately drew some tears into the Princesses Eyes, which more troubled me, than to have acted the design that caus'd them; whilst I was giving consolations, where it may be another had needed them, there came a Stranger hastily into the Room, whom we no longer thought one, than whilst he kept this disguise; for as soon as he had cast it off, we knew him to be Surena, who in a disordered haste told me, Madam, the concern I have in your Interests, makes me decline my own; for only to offer you my service in keeping you from your Enemy, I have made the King irreconciliably mine; for I have not only violated his Commands by leaving Nineveh, but am resolved to repeat my disobedience, if the honour of yours enjoyn it me: In a word, Madam, Arsaces told me he can no longer decline a blessing he has as much power, as will to invest himself in; and since to evince the greatness of his respect, he has so long delayed it; to evince the greatness of his Passion, he will no longer do it; that the next day after you return, he will make you his Queen, or if your coldness do decline so satisfying his desires, you will thereby invite him to the same end, though by a much differing way. These, Madam (continued Surena), were his very words; which he accompany'd with so many horrid oaths, that he has rendered it a less crime to act his sin, than to decline it. I am therefore come to offer you a Life for the preservation of your Loves, which has been too much

employed to distract, and ruine them; I present it you as much to re∣pair my crime, as to hinder my King from acting his, which nothing but some sudden and brisk resolution can prevent; were we but out of this Island, I durst promise you a retreat in a Kingdom, where I hope you may one day Reign; for Merinzor, the most considerable Person in Media, now Moneses and Artabbanes are out of it, is so much my friend, and so much more one to virtue, that were we but there, Arsaces must take that great Empire, before he take you: This I dare engage my self for; though I have practised the obtaining Merinzor's affection, but only since I apprehended the violence of my King's, would render it useful and necessary to you. We had (said Parthenissa) after Surena's assurance of a Sanctuary, a thousand propositions how to recover it; and that which gave me the greatest approbation for that which he pro∣pounded, was, that Media could not but have many servants to Artab∣banes, who by the Laws of it, and Nature, was one day to wear that Crown; Zephalinda advised, that by some device or other, Orodes might be again drawn to visit us, and then that Surena should seize upon him, and make his liberty the ransom of Mine, and her Brothers; with whom, and with her, I might retire into Media; Lyndadory approved this ad∣vice, so she might be of the Company; which she alledged might per∣haps bring some security to it, by her being Daughter to a Prince, whose memory there, was in as great as just veneration; she added too, that by my taking some Physick, whose operation should be visible when Orodes came to visit me, I might not only confirm him my remove was dange∣rous; but purchase time enough for Surena to draw in force enough to secure us from the King's: We had doubtless elected this design, had not Surena said, That 'twas a thing impossible to delude a jealous Lover; that the effects of an indisposition manifested in that conjuncture of time, would appear rather a Sickness assum'd, than befallen me: That to take the King Prisoner would raise him an Army, which might make me his; since many would fight for his liberty, which would not for his obtaining forcibly his Mistriss; and if I counterfeited an indisposition, Arsace's Love or Jealousie, would keep him perpetually near me, and so render my Flight as impossible, as desired; but (said Surena) if all these Rea∣sons were disputable, yet this is not, That by violating my King's Com∣mand in coming hither, I have so exasperated him, that he will never trust himself in a Place, where I have both the Power and Provocation to repeat my Disobedience. Therefore he concluded there was no other way, but immediately while the Night contributed to their assistance, under a pretence of giving the Guard their farewel-entertainment, to give as many of them Wine, as had not reason enough to refuse it; then to fall upon those who were able to resist, and by their Deaths force a passage to our Freedoms, which having obtained, to make Media the feat of it. There was nothing (said Parthenissa) I scrupled at in this, but the destroying those Persons, whose Fidelity to their King was their only Crime; but the necessity of my condition, made me at last conde∣scend to what (next being false to Artabbanes) I most apprehended; only I passionately conjured Surena to spill no more blood, than was of necessity to be shed for our deliverance. To be brief, Surena without his disguise, went to the Captain of my Guards, to whom (he said) Ar∣saces had expresly sent him from Nineveh, the next morning to wait on me thither, which the other easily credited, knowing his King's Passion for me, and his Friendship for Surena; who entertain'd the deluded

Officer, till some of his Servants had made all those of the Guard drunk, that had a mind to be so; about Midnight when all was buried in sleep and silence, but those which knew the Design, and those which had the Guard, Surena with all his Domesticks fell upon them, and though his Numbers exceeded theirs; yet their Captain, who knew how certain a Death his defeat would be from his Enemies or his King, so briskly dis∣puted his Fate, that Surena began to doubt his own; which to decide, he resolutely Charged the Captain, who he found was the Sould of his Party, and whom, after a long and bloody dispute, he left dead upon the place; all the Souldiers Courages fell with their Officers, so that Surena remembring my pressing desires, saved their Lives; Surena co∣vered with Blood and Victory came to my Chamber, and begged me so to employ the latter, that before Orodes could know his action, we might be where he could not revenge it. I told him, this was a request fitter for me than him, and that I left the ordering of my liberty to the Bestower of it; he desired me then by the dawn of day to be ready, by which some Chariots, and my Equipage should be; to hasten which, he left me. We were too much concerned in our joy to lose the solemnizing of it by sleep; and whilst Surena was contributing to convert our hopes of safety into an actual one, his generous Sister, yours, and I, entertained one another with the rare and high effects of his Friendship; and with the proportionate obligation I had unto him for them.

Symander was in this place of his relation, when it was interrupted by what made his Auditors think it no misfortune; For 'twas by the con∣fused running in of divers Priests of Venus, who came to acquaint their Superiour, that the Dome of the Temple was filled with Lightnings, as bright as ever their Goddess's Eyes did shoot; that the foundation of the sacred Vault trembled; and in a word, that all the symptoms of the Oracles being restored to the liberty of speaking, were so visible, that none with reason could apprehend the contrary. Callimmachus by an erection of his eyes and hands, acknowledged his gratitude to her, and his concern in our Hero's, whose Pardons he begged (for Artabbanes by this time was come out of the Gallery to participate in the News) that the function of his vocation would not permit him to wait on them again till the morning; to which he added, that he hoped they would the sooner grant it him, since his absence was necessary to the learning of their Fate, which the next day he told them infallibly they should. With this flattering assurance, he left the generous Lovers; who, whilst Callimmachus was employed in preparing the Sacrifices, were in dis∣coursing what effects they could produce.