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

PARTHENISSA.

THE FIFTH PART.

The Fourth BOOK.

MIthridates Fear was not inferior to the Joy this confidence had given his Enemies, whose hasty advance made him often determine to desert the place of his usual residence, and seek his safety in Atafernes Army, which he consider∣ed as a more hopeful Sanctuary than that large and unfor∣tified City. But at length his Honour having conquered his Apprehen∣sions, he resolved to continue where he was, and not to encrease Nico∣medes advantages by two such signal accessions, as those of his own flight, and of the loss of Nicomedia, which last would be an infallible conse∣quence of the first. This intention once assum'd, he sent several Expres∣ses to my General to acquaint him with it, and to command him to ha∣sten out of his Army such a considerable strength to secure the City, as might rationally do so, till he came up with the residue, or till Pharnaces could come to his assistance. Atafernes having received these Com∣mands, resolved in person to take four thousand Horse, and mounting as many select foot behind them, to cast himself into Nicomedia, as knowing those services in which the King's safety is ascertain'd, and which he is a spectator of, are of deepest impression, and happiest ad∣vantage. The command of the Army he intrusted me with, though I passionately beg'd to wait upon him, both as 'twas my inclination and du∣ty to him, and the Princess Statira's last commands; for which disobe∣dience having undertook to excuse me, upon the necessity of the pub∣like safety; and having pressingly invited Lingarus and the rest of the Bosphorian Nobility, to encrease his numbers, and to contribute to a bat∣tel which probably was to decide a War, the Enemy having put them∣selves into a posture which rendered that belief a rational one, he march∣ed away, taking Craterus with him, whose wounds made the Town more fit for his condition than the field. Soon after I followed his steps, lea∣ving yet nothing unessay'd to encrease the Army to such numbers, as without Jemerity we might conquer Nicomedes, and not be obliged to the assistance of Pharnaces, and thereby end both Wars, before he had begun one. Neither was I altogether indebted to my hopes for so flatter∣ing an imagination, but to my reason also; for Lingarus had so intently and actively imploy'd himself, that when I was come within a days march of Nicomedia, he overtook me with the flower of the Nobility of Bos∣phorus,

who perhaps thereby endeavoured to let Mithridates see, they were too considerable not to be continued his friends, or to be made his enemies. But alas, my satisfaction then could not transcend my sorrow soon after, when by an Express from the King, I understood that the same morning on which the Letter was writ, the Prince Atafernes being furiously assaulted by the Enemy (who knowing their condition, admit∣ted no recovery if they were not conquerors of Nicomedia, and of one Army before the other had joined with it) and having with wonderful resolution beat them off, had so far and so briskly followed this dawn∣ing success with all his horse, that before he saw his mistake, he was not in a capacity of remedying it, the whole Army having interposed be∣tween him and his retreat, which finding 'twas impossible to make, he and his were resolved so to signalize their defeat, that his foes might have as much cause to mourn, as to rejoice at it. This design he had fully acted; and at length he and all that followed him, overpressed with multitudes, were every one kill'd or taken; and whether he him∣self had fallen into the first or last of these misfortunes, was yet un∣certain; so that the Forces in Nicomedia being deprived of him, seem'd to be deprived of what had animated them; defending now the Ene∣mies renewed and universal assault, with such coldness, that 'twas deep∣ly apprehended their ressistance would not be long enough to render my relief worthy that name. Oh Gods! you alone can tell my trouble at this sad advertisement, having of two persons I most valued, lost one, and being but in too high a probability of losing the other. But I had not time given me to deplore my unhappiness, nor hardly enough to prevent the encrease of it: Therefore immediately marching away all the Horse I had, and appointing Megabizes, a gallant and experienc'd Officer, to follow me expeditiously with the Foot, I bent my course with all imaginable celerity toward Nicomedia, resolv'd to put a period to the danger of those in it, or to my life.

By the dawn of the day I was come near enough to hear the shouts and cryes of the Assailants and Defendants, and soon after to see all Ni∣comedes Army (except those employ'd in the storm) under their Co∣lours. By this I knew the place was not lost, and that the Enemy had no small hopes that it would soon be won.

Thrust on by this apprehension, and elevated by that joy, I flew to charge a Body of near Ten thousand Horse, which lay ready to receive that relief they believed Mithridates needed, and I would bring him.

I strictly order'd all my Soldiers not to follow any success the gods and their courages should give them, farther than might contribute to our entring of the City, which was then only our design.

The Fight was furious and bloody, the hopes of both parties depend∣ing upon the event of it; but at last I singled out the General of their Horse, and in sight of both parties kill'd him; at which our Enemies gave ground, and soon after so precipitately lost all, that we entred Ni∣comedia, not having lessened our Numbers above four hundred, and ha∣ving lessened five times as many of our Adversaries: But, as if Fate had designed that both the Streets and the Fields should be equally moist∣ned with human blood, as I entered the West-gate, Nicomedes in person entred the East, having left the generous Craterus for dead in the mouth of the breach, and fill'd up the gra••t with the dead bodies which had so resolutely defended it, thereby having rendered those which had been the obstacle of their entrance, now the means of having it more easie.

Had you seen the faces of the Nicomedians, you might have read their condition; for they equally participated of joy and fear, their friends being triumphant at one end of the Town, and their Enemies at the other. But the last News coming earlier to Mithridates than the first, he thought it no longer courage, but frenzy, to expect relief in a place which he now esteemed uncapable of any.

He therefore hastily abandoned the Palace with the Queen, the Prin∣cess Statira, the Princess Roxana, and the young Princess Cleopatra; and flying with them towards a little Fort which stood at the extremity of the Street I was entred, and commanded the Sea (to which Element he now only hoped to owe his deliverance), he met me at the head of my Forces, covered with dust and blood, as most in the first Ranks were.

The posture we were in, joyn'd with the intelligence of the Enemies having entred the City, made him no longer doubt but that his Fate was come; and in that belief he was going to act it with his own hands: but perceiving his mistake by the flight of those few Guards he had left, and by the cryes of the Princesses, lifting up my Helmet, and turning the point of my Sword to the ground, I rode up to the King, and con∣jur'd him not so much to wrong the gods and his own Soldiers, as by abandoning Nicomedia to evidence he doubted the goodness of the one, or the courages of the other, their having so freshly defeated a consi∣derable part of the Enemies Forces and their now having so opportunely sent him a more considerable part of his own, were such good earnests of future mercies, if not themselves present ones, that to doubt a de∣liverance afterwards, were but to provoke them to deny it.

Never words had a more fruitful effect than these, not only upon Mi∣thridates, but even upon the fair Statira too, who lifting up her fair eyes eclips'd with weepings, fix'd them so obligingly on me, that my felicity was thereby higher in my own apprehension, than their late danger had been in hers.

Here (generous Princes, continued Callimachus) I must acknow∣ledg my crime; for I could not but bless the gods which had cast her in∣to such misfortunes, since they had destin'd me to free her from them.

As soon as I was alighted, the King flew into my arms, and in expres∣sions great as his joy, he began to give me acknowledgments of the same nature: but he was cut off in the midst of them; for by this, Nicomedes had so far enter'd the City, that her Inhabitants and Garison by their hasty flight, and confused cryes, seem'd to acquaint him all was lost. I had only time to conjure him to return to his Palace (which he was not many paces from) and to beg him to rest assur'd of a Victory which our Swords had in some measure begun, and were now going to perfect.

Mithridates, whilst he was acting my desire, gave me so many assuran∣ces of his confidence in my Courage, that it brought no small accession to it.

But when (out of respect) I was helping the Queen to walk, he so expresly prohibited so dangerous a civility, and she to take away the op∣portunity of my continuing it, went so hastily from me, that thereby I got an occasion of telling the fair Statira (whose incessant weepings seem'd to reproach my having not paid her commands of never abandoning her Brother, that obedience I owed and have faithfully promi∣sed them), Madam, had I followed my highest inclination, and my greatest duty, for so I shall always call that observance your orders

exact from me) I had now freed that generous Prince from his misfor∣tune, or not liv'd to see you so deeply deplore it.

But his injunctions on me of following him with the Army, which by reason of Craterus wounds he would not trust with any other, and his reiterated Vows of apologizing for me to you, has made me guilty of a Crime, which by what I see and feel, cannot be greater than my punish∣ment.

But Madam, I am now going by some eminent action to dry up your tears, and wash away my guilt, or else to convince you by my death, that I did not altogether merit that cruel Command of your Brothers, which at once was to separate me from waiting on him, and from obey∣ing of you.

These words brought fresh tears into the fair Princess's eyes, and seem'd so to contract her breast with sorrow, that she was only able to tell me; The poor Atafernes has told me all which you have now spoken, and I think I have not been accustom'd to give your words so little credit, as to provoke you in so fatal a way as you mention, to invite me to believe them: no, Callimachus, though the gods have so signally punished the Royal House of Pontus, as to deprive it of that unhappy Prince (the un∣certainty of whose death has hitherto hinder'd grief from acting mine) yet I believe their Mercy will place limits to their Justice, and not de∣prive it at the same time of so considerable a Friend, for whose particular preservation I shall as concernedly pray, as for the publick success.

A hideous cry occasion'd by some of Nicomedes Soldiers, who thirsty after blood or pillage, had much advanc'd themselves before the rest of their Companions, render'd me uncapable of hearing what she farther said, or of speaking any more unto her; so that having hastily again re∣covered my Horse, I moved eagerly towards that Enemy, the shedding of whose blood could not be but a just and necessary expiation for their having caus'd Mithridatia to shed so many tears.

I will not here enumerate the various accidents of that bloody Day: it may perhaps suffice to tell you, That Mithridates having seen the Streets of Nicomedia run with the blood of his enemies and his subjects; he at last saw after a little Battel, in a great Piazza, that by the last the first were expell'd the City, in which they left so considerable a part of their Army, that had they been alive, they had been enow to have kept it against the rest.

I was not solicitous to follow the execution too far, lest I might have repeated the generous Atafernes misfortune, and thereby have left Sta∣tira without a Defender, when she had honoured me with that Noble Title. Besides, I was not without apprehensions, that Nicomedes might believe it a more hopeful design to cut off our Foot under Megabizes, than now to take Nicomedia; and might with such celerity attempt it, that if any time were lost, that part of the Army might be so too. Ha∣ving therefore first diligently search'd for, and at last found the poor Cra∣terus Body, which yet seem'd to have some life in it, and of which I took all imaginable care, I hastily caus'd that wide breach by which the Ene∣my had entred, and had been expell'd, to be made up; and whilst that was doing, I went to the King, gave him an account of what we had done, begg'd his permission forthwith to attempt those who interpo∣sed between Megabizes and me; and being join'd, to camp in those great Fields which Neighbour'd the West-port, that our men having a Night's refreshment, they might be the earlier refresh'd for a Battel,

which I was confident Nicomedes, Ariobarzanes, and Murena would so pressingly offer, that I must either accept it, or draw into the City in which our Horse would be famished, before Pharnaces could come to our Relief, and by which our Army would be as much dejected, as the Enemies heightned; who also might when Pharnaces came near, silently rise in the Night, and fight him before we could get notice of their remove; where∣in if they had success, all would too probably be lost: whereas if he permitted me to decide the quarrel in the Field, if we did not present him with Victory, yet at least we should so much diminish our Adversa∣ries Numbers, that our Friends should find an easie way into it.

Mithridates and all his Council believed this too hazardous a Resolu∣tion, but I so confidently perswaded them the contrary was so, that at the last they condescended to what I proposed.

I was beginning to take my leave, and to return to my Men, when the King perceived some blood drop from my Arm, at which he seem'd as much concerned, as if it had been from his own; and forthwith sending for a Chirurgeon to dress me, and for a Scarf to support it, the Queen not having one about her, and fearing 'twould take up too much time to send for one, she desired the fair Statira to spare me hers (for by a hap∣py accident she had one which she had prepar'd for the unhappy Ata∣••ernes): This that obliging Princess did, and I received it from the hands of Monyma, who by an excess of civility would needs put it on her self, though I endeavoured by many entreaties to free her from so low a trouble; But whilst she was ordering of it, I seem'd by my looks to ac∣knowledg Mithridatia's goodness, more than the Queen's, and that the first had more oblig'd me in granting the Request, than the last had, in having made it; and if I was capable of any dissatisfaction in so much happiness, 'twas only in deriving my Obligation from any but my Princess.

But finding my hurt had more befriended me already than it could in∣jure me, unless by longer expectance of one to dress it (which it's in∣considerableness needed not) I went away, having first paid my humble acknowledgments to the Princess, and the Queen, and so fully assur'd Mithridates of success, that he seemed to be then as desirous of the Event of my Enterprize, as formerly he had been apprehensive of it.

My Soldiers having (during this) taken a little refreshment, which the over-joy'd Inhabitants willingly presented them, were all in Arms at my return. I told them, we were again by another Victory to join with those, which we had obtained a Victory, to separate our selves from.

This was so requisite a performance, that it appear'd such to the meanest capacities there, which made the motion be received with Mi∣litary shouts; at the conclusion whereof, we chearfully left Nicomedia by the same Gate by which we had entred it.

We were not above two furlongs on our March, when we discovered many Divisions of Horse drawn up to intercept us, and all the Residue of Nicomedes's Army (who easily foresaw our intention) moving to join with those; we were therefore hastily advancing to charge, which we did with such fury, that all their resistance contributed but the more to their loss, and our glory.

We had no sooner disintangled our selves from this bloody Impe∣diment, than we prosecuted our intended design, and with such dili∣gence, that Nicomedes not being able to overtake me with his Foot, thought it was the more safe advi••e to give his men refreshment, whilst I *

was harrasing of mine, that they might be the fitter next day to attempt the City if I did not return, or to give me Battel, if I did,

'T was therefore that uninterruptedly I joyn'd with Megabizes, whom I met about thirty furlongs from the place we had so lately fought in, and with whom I found such brave accessional Forces, which Lingarus's cre∣dit had drawn under out Ensigns, that I return'd with a firm resolution, no longer than the next Day to decline a general engagement: and an hour before the Sun was set, I camped in some great inclosed Fields con∣tiguous to the Walls of Nicomedia, where I order'd my Soldiers to take as much rest as their vicinity to so many ill Neighbours would admit: And having assembled a Council, and resolved in what form we should give the intended Battel, leaving Megabizes the command of the Camp, I went into the City, taking Lingarus with me, whom I presented to Mi∣thridates with those Elogies I esteemed due to his merits. The Kings actions shewed he believed my words, and that gallant Man received so many kindnesses from his Prince, that it brought no small increase to the zeal he had already assumed for his Service.

Whilst Mithridates was entertaining himself with him, and giving him many Professions that his present services had totally wiped away his pre∣ceding fault, one of those many Officers I had employ'd amongst the Pri∣soners to learn some intelligence of Atafernes, sent to speak with me in an anti-chamber; to whom I went hastily, and from whom I received information, that by a Prisoner of quality he was assured that generous Prince had been taken alive, but much wounded, and yet not so dan∣gerously, as to make the Chirurgeons despair of his recovery. Trans∣ported with this happy News, I fled unto the King, and acquainted him with it, who sending forthwith to the first Informer of this joyful Ad∣vertisement, and having received from him a full convincement of the certainty thereof; he told me, Go, Callimachus and stop the poor Sta∣tira's tears with this obliging assurance. This almost as obliging a Command I hastned to obey, and having obtained the Princess's permis∣sion of waiting on her, I entred her Chamber, but did find her so drown'd in sorrow, that for a while it made me forget my own grief, and that I was come with what would mitigate hers: but when I had found the ••n∣civil cruelty of such a sympathizing; I told her, I was once, Madam, coming to implore the priviledg of mingling my tears with yours for our common Loss, and of lamenting, till I could revenge it: But now, Ma∣dam, I am come to tell you, That the Prince Atafernes hath not lost his life, but his liberty; which misfortune I hope by this time to morrow so to free him from, that you will have no trouble but in beholding of his, when he shall know those tears his Captivity has made you shed; and if he prefers not your satisfaction above his own, he cannot but believe his wounds and loss of Liberty a cheap price for discovering so high a friend∣ship as thereby he experiments the Princess Statira honours him with; for my part, though I value him at the rate his virtues merit, yet if I can by restoring him to his Freedom give her as great a contentmeat, as the loss of it did give her a trouble, I shall hardly so much repine at his Fate, as I shall glory in my own.

The Princess either did not, or would not hear my last words, but inter∣rupting them, told me; O gods! Callimachus, is it then possible that Atafernes is alive? or do you think my sorrow was so near sending me to bear him Company, that to deny that only remaining happiness, you this way endeavour to suspend me from it now, and to morrow hope

by repeated Victories I shall not find room enough to entertain a killing grief in so general a cause of Joy? Madam, (I reply'd) the Truth I have told you is as great, as therefore my satisfaction is; and your generous Bro∣ther wants, I hope, but that Freedom which ere long he will enjoy; since Fortune which has honoured my Sword with some success when 'twas for your service, will not deny it the like when 'tis for your satis∣faction.

You have (said the Princess) done so much already for us, that I know not any thing which we may not expect from your Courage and Civility; and the next happiness to seeing my Brother at Liberty, is to receive an assurance of it from you; but yet Callimachus, have a care you give me as good an account of your self, as your promise; for your preservation will be as requisite for my satisfaction, as for the publick safety.

Madam, (I answered, transported with what she had spoken) till these glorious words, I never was acquainted with any thing which might flatter me into a belief that my preservation could be useful to the publick, or as much as to my self; the gods having kept me a stranger to my own extraction, and yet at the same time having given me a heart to aspire to what the sublimest only can legitimately pretend unto; yes, Madam, I have such transcendent aims, that I thought I could under∣take nothing which was not inferiour to them, till the gods destin'd me to your service, which goodness I must at the same instant acknowledg, and deplore; since for to make me useful to you, they have eclips'd the condition you were born unto, and have thought fit rather to diminish your greatness, that thereby I might become in some poor measure useful to you, than continue it, whereby I should have been deny'd that honour; and since I find by so unhoped-for, yet obliging experiment, that such a manifestation is not indifferent unto them, nay, rather than not evidence it, they have shaken the greatest Empire of the World, and troubled a Princess fit to be inthron'd in it; I shall no more doubt they will finish what they have begun, than I should rejoyce that my Opinion might have the honour to be yours; or if it be not, that you will pardon its being mine.

All the while I was speaking, I was much more concern'd in Statira's looks in what I spoke; for I could not but believe that a heart entirely hers, could be elegible to her; and therefore I was much more intent to know her sense of what was there, than to cloathe that discovery in ex∣pressions fit for its self, or that admirable Person to whom it was made: Neither durst I, observing that more reserved look she put on when I be∣gan my discourse, conclude it in words of the same quality; but I so alter'd it, that the end might relish of the beginning, or of my great hopes of relieving her generous Brother: In which sense she seemed to receive what I had said, and therefore told me; Though the gods have directly conceal'd from you what your extraction is, yet obliquely they seem to inform you of it; for by giving you such high aims, you may thereby know your descent is not disproportionate: yet permit me to tell you, that your designs of acquiring as great an Empire as you pre∣serve for Mithridates, is not to me so eminent a proof that your birth is high, as your so generously undertaking his quarrel against his Rebels; the relief of the oppressed being a clearer act of greatness, than winning of Kingdoms; this being most frequently the recompence of force, that being alway the illustration of vertue. But alas (she continued) would

to the gods I could believe the Warrs my Father is plunged into, could be irrationally attributed to what you alledg: No, Callimachus, his own faults, and the crimes of his subjects are too visible, and great, to allow me any rise to ascribe our present confusions to any other cause; and if I have any hopes that they are sent only for our correction, not our ruine, 'tis that the gods have sent us in our afflictions such a Friend, who doubtless would not have been permitted to have imploy'd his sword and conduct in a quarrel designed to be unsuccessful: Nor would those powers have so strangely preserved Ataphernes, but that every in∣dividual of this unfortunate Family are destin'd to owe their safety unto you, that the gods might not wholly destroy a House, in which possibly some unguilty persons are, and yet preserve it in such a way as might en∣tirely silence any imaginations of their having acted towards that mercy: And it may be also to make those of it in love with virtue, above power, when they shall experiment, that the desert of an unknown person could more preserve them, than innumerable Armies too too empty there∣of.

I had not (continued Callimachus) leisure enough to admire the ex∣cellent vertue, and resembling obligedness of the fair Statira, nor in∣deed to pay by my acknowledgments any part of that vast debt, what she had said, had so justly engaged me unto; by reason the Princess Rox∣ana, and immediately after, the Queen came to congratulate with Mi∣thridatia the happy news of Atafernes's being alive.

Whilst the two Sisters were entertaining one another, Monyma after some usual Discourses presenting me her hand, made me follow her to the farthest end of the Chamber we were in; where having a while continu∣ed silent, she at length told me; I observe, Callimachus, your carriage towards me has so much of indifferency in it, that it might justly pro∣voke me to imitate you; which (doubtless) long agon I had done, were it not to convince you, that in all things which entirely de∣pend upon actings, I have an esteem for you uncapable of suppression, or as much as of dimunition.

Madam, (I reply'd, strangely surprised at what she had spoke) I hope my carriage to you has relish'd of all sorts of respect due to your con∣dition and merit; if it has not, I humbly beg to be told my fault, that I may not only repair it, but also punish a crime so contrary to my duty and inclination.

Your fault, (the Queen reply'd, casting down her eyes, and blushing) is better mended than told: but since you pretend to be ignorant, I shall find out an opportunity not only to acquaint you with it, but also with what, I am confident, causes it. These words were scarce out of her mouth, when she went away, and 'twas happy for me she did; for had she staid, she could not but have guessed by my disorders, what had occasi∣on'd them: her last expression gave me so much fear, that I found my self too unfit to continue longer in the Princesses Chamber, out of which I pretended to go, as a duty to the company there, having assured them, if the next day the Enemy declin'd not the Battel, which I thought nei∣their their condition nor courage would make them guilty of, I would leave no means unattempted to restore the Prince Atafernes to his Li∣berty.

After the civilities that promise did invite the Queen and Prin∣cesses to bestow upon me, I went to visit Craterus, whom I found more afflicted by his being unable to assist me in the intended

Battel, than at those wounds which denied him that power, and me his help: from thence I went to Mithridates, who the nearer we grew to the execution of our design, had the more aversness to it; but hav∣ing again dissipated those cold apprehensions by words altogether Mar∣tial and promising, I retir'd towards the Camp, accompanied by all those Officers which then were in Nicomedia, resolving not to see that place again, till I were covered with Laurels, and till by eminent repeat∣ed services I might let the fair Statira see, I wanted not merit, but a sufficient quality to aspire unto the title of her servant. After, having giv∣en the requisite orders for the succeding days business, I dismiss'd all men out of my Tent, but Demetrius, whom I order'd to imbellish my Armour with the richest stones I had; for designing to act remarkable things, I was resolv'd to wear Arms which were so: And knowing that so signal an engagement could not but invite the Princess to be a specta∣tor of it, which from the Battlements of the Palace she might easily be, I thought my intended gallantry would be excusable; and I elected rather to be known to all my enemies, than not to be so to my Conqueror. All the night almost I entertained my self with the Ca∣priciousness of my Fortune; By how rare an accident I had first seen Mo∣nyma, and by a rarer lost her; how that to cure the reliques of that passi∣on, I had elected a course of life which had cost me a greater; how Fortune seem'd to delight to engage me in love, by having enabled me to pay my two Mistresses higher services the first moment I saw them, than o∣thers could expect to perform in the whole course of their lives: And then, that she was really more concern'd in making me unfortunate in it, having the first time perswaded me to pay my affection to a person from whose humour I could expect no success; and the last, from whose quality I was to attend the like unhappiness: how from nothing I was rais'd high enough to love, and not high enough to hope the reward of it: That if I prov'd successful in War, I should be no longer useful; and if unsuccessful, I could be no longer considerable; as also, that if the War were protracted, the greatest glory of it would be lessened, even that of expedition; That the King of Cyprus was daily expected, whose Title and Power, joyn'd with the Authority of the Father, and the exact obedience of the Daughter (whose principles I had but too reso∣lutely been acquainted with, to allow me the least hope she would decline the practise of them) would soon involve me in infelicities as vast as those joys which were to cause them. These and many other suggestions of as unpleasing a nature, my memory (conspiring with my fortune) represented to me in their liveliest colours, and would not so much as by sleep allow me an interval of rest, so that they were my constrant and importunate Companions, till the day, and the military musick made them retire, and resign their places to the thoughts of acquiring Victory, the possession or loss whereof some few hours would decide. The glory I possess'd in being the fair Statira's Servant, and the glo∣ry I hoped that day to win in being her Brother Deliverer▪ so dissi∣pated that melancholly the nights entertainment had infected me with, that when I began to draw out my Army, my looks so participated of my hopes, that my desire of success could not therefore exceed the con∣fidence my Soldiers had of it: And that which did yet more contribute to my hopes, was to see the Tarrase of the highest Tower in Nicomedia covered with Royal Pavilions, whereby I was satisfied Statira would ho∣nour us with her sight, whose influence could promise nothing less than Victory.

But whilst the Mithridatick Army was drawing up in that form I ap∣pointed, and the Enemies were covering the opposite side of the Plain with their Divisions, an Officer from the head of one of those which was most advanced, came towards me, and turning the point of his Javelin to the earth in sign of friendship, told me with a loud voice, That one of his Generals desired to speak with Callimachus between both Armies, and en∣gaged his Faith during the parley, and till his return, nothing of violence should be offer'd, and that he intreated the like assurance.

A compliance herein having a possibility of good, and a certainty of no hurt, I was advis'd ro accept thereof by all the Officers which were near me, whose opinions I more willingly followed, because of the passio∣nate desire I had to learn the condition of the Prince Atafernes. I there∣fore told the Enemies Officer, I would forthwith meet his General, for whose safety during the conference, and return to his own Army after it, I engaged him my Faith. To which he (being told who I was) reply'd it was sufficient; and so return'd to the head of the Enemy's Army, from whence I saw a Gentleman advance singly into the middle of the plain, where immediately I met him, and where after, having lifted up the sights of our Helmets, and performed all the civilities which are usual in such cases; He told me; If you now think it strange that I have desired a parley, when we are going to fight a Battel, possibly you may do so no lon∣ger, when I have told you I am Nicomedes King of Bithynia; that same Nicomedes who owed principally to your Sword and Conduct, a Naval Victory he obtained over Mithridates in the Mouth of the Euxine Sea; and that it is but even now I learnt you are that brave Callimachus, from whose courage I derived so signal an advantage; I must plainly confess after this information, I could not but desire to express my trouble, both that you are engaged against me, and for him, who, to say no more, de∣serves not such a Friend: But I come not now to Court you from him, I could not be worthy of your Friendship if I now made you such a Re∣quest; neither could you be worthy of mine, if you now granted it: all that I ask, is, after this Battel, if the gods make us outlive it, that you would take leave of him, and joyn your self to a quarrel, which possibly deserves your embracing it; and to a Prince, who during his life will give you as large a share in his Fortunes, as he has already in his esteem.

This I hope will not be thought an immodest desire, since, as you once assur'd me, you are not Mithridates's Subject, and had too much cause to be his Enemy; and that you must fight to maintain an Usurper in the Throne, and to keep the Legitimate Prince out of it, who has not only a right thereunto by a lawful succession, but also even by the Pon∣tick King's Treaty of peace with Sylla, and his reiterated engagements to Murena.

If the gods too, favour my Arms in this Field, I hope I shall not need employ them to win another; and though I should lose this day (which I have no cause to doubt, but your being my Enemy) I have yet so many powerful Friends in As••a, nay the whole Roman Empire is so en∣gaged in my quarrel, that Mithridates to be quiet King of Bithynia, must be the like of the whole World. As soon as Nicomedes had done speak∣ing, I reply'd: The honour I once had to do you a small service, is so nobly remembred, and paid, in what you formerly did, and now are generously pleas'd to offer, as well as in that high care you have of my reputation even when I am in Arms against you, that I hope you will conclude my confinements to Mithridates's service are not to be broken,

since they continue firm after such powerful Assaults: Yes (great Prince) I take the gods for witness, that your generosity will make me look up∣on success with grief, and wish I had never worn a Sword, since it must be so unhappily employ'd.

I can too with the like truth protest, if the now difference between the Pontick, King and you were ended, that I would as freely hazard my life to restore you to your Kingdom, as now I will to preserve Mithri∣dates from losing his: And though possibly his innocence towards you might not be perfect, yet I beg you, generous Nicomedes, to consider how unfit it would be for me to hear it accused; and let that consideration prevail with you to send me away, with the sorrow of being compell'd to draw my Sword against a King, from whom I have received many Ob∣ligations, and never any dissatisfaction; I say, Compell'd, and that too by causes so undisputable, that I must act what I do, though I were as fully convinc'd of the Justice of your quarrel, as you your self are.

After this Declaration, be pleased rather to pity than condemn my not accepting of your favour; and be confident I would not have said so much, but to one I perfectly honour, and to whom I am a servant in heart, though my hand may act against that truth.

This I spoke, being truly affected with the injustice I did to the King of Bithynia in opposing his undoubted right, and being as perfectly van∣quish'd with his civilities.

His answer too was so moving, and full of Obligation, that thereby I the more clearly discovered the height of my passion for the Princess Statira, which made me deaf to friendship and justice, and resign the power en∣tirely even to a hopeless Love; but yet to a Love so glorious, and so charming, that not to have given it the precedency of all other conside∣rations, would have been a greater Crime than to have done it.

What need I tell you more (generous Princes) than, that this confe∣rence ended with the high satisfaction and trouble of us both, the one to see we had such invitation to be friends, and the other that there was such an impossibility of becoming so.

But before I took leave of the unhappy Nicomedes, I begg'd him to tell me what was become of Atafernes; to which he reply'd, If he were living, he was in the power of Murena's Soldiers, for he had been taken by the Roman Legionaries.

This doubt rais'd in me so many fears and troubles, that they were vi∣sible to the King of Bithynia, who therefore assured me, since he perceiv∣ed I was concerned for him, he would thenceforth be the like.

I pay'd him as many acknowledgments for that promise, as for all his other respects, which he increased by telling me; Lest you may believe the denyal of your friendship to me, has supprest mine to you; Permit me to tell you, Your disorders at Atafernes's danger, may be prejudicial to you; for I see your Army is ready to begin the Battel, having Ariobarzanes and Murena to supply my absence, and that yours probably having none to supply yours, may sustain a prejudice, which this way I would not have it endure, were it com∣manded by Mithridates himself, much less being 'tis by the brave Cal∣limachus, whose refusal of my offers I cannot be offended at, since, by what he has told me, I must believe it springs from a cause to which not only a desired friendship has been inferiour, but even a formed one, and which I have experimented has been so prevalent with me, that I can∣not be offended at its now being so against me.

These words made me at once joy'd, and confounded; this that he should know the truth of the thing (though not of the person) and that, that it had produced so obliging an effect.

In brief, we parted, and I believe as full of thoughts at what had past, as at what was to come, he galloping to the head of his Troops, as I did to the head of mine, where I gave all the chief Officers a Relation of Ni∣comedes's desires to me, which only had occasioned and continued our conference, of which also I sent an account to the Pontick King, that he might have no cause to suspect my fidelity, which was tyed unto him by an Obligation, though secret, yet incorruptible.

This being done, I forthwith sent every Commander to his respective place: and having in a short speech incited the Soldiers to manifest their courages for, and before their King, I commanded the signal of Battel to be given, and then the military Musick began to invite us to that glory which so Noble a Field was to present the Conquerour: never per∣haps was there a Battel in which so many Kings and of Royal blood were Actors, or Beholders; and never perhaps were Armies so brave and glittering as these.

The King of Bithynia and the King of Cappadocia appear'd in an Equi∣page, and with Forces worthy their Titles and their hopes; and Murena manifested that the people of Rome were sometimes as exorbitant as the As••aticks, which their pride or wisdom so much condemn'd.

On the other side, Mithridates Troops which consisted (for the most part) of the young Nobility and Gentry of his Dominions, which their honour, as much as his danger, had incited under his Ensigns, were so gal∣lant and rich in their Furnitures, as were also all those Courtiers which shame or glory had drawn out of Nicomedia; that they look'd rather like going to triumph after a Victory, than to win one: Who even that morn∣ing had beheld the various multitudes of Colours, the Wind and those which carried them did wanton with; The glistering of Arms, and Swords, the vast Numbers of brave Horse, all seeming as impatient of de∣lay as their very Riders; the variety of Nations and Habits, and their di∣stinct Martial Countenances; the exact regularity every individual Bat∣talion had within its self, and the perfect proportion all of them had with each other: whoever too had heard the neighing of the Horse, the shouts of the Soldiers, and the Military Instruments, could not but have con∣fess'd how deformed soever the face of War uses to appear, yet that day it had Charms enough to have captivated even that Sex whose Nature is compos'd of pity.

I must acknowledg how greedy soever I was of a Victory, which I hoped might in some measure repair the unhappiness or ignorance of my Birth, yet I was so delighted with that Noble entertainment and Pro∣spect, that it was with some reluctancy I put a period to it.

The Enemies Forces consisted (as I may say) of three Armies, and were commanded by Nicomedes, Ariobarzanes, and Murena, out of all which Archilaus and Neoptolemus had a great body of Horse and Foot given them to lead, who acted so many high things that day, that had it been for their Countrey (as it was against it) their precedent guilt might have been thereby entirely defas'd.

In imitation of the Enemies Order, I had divided my Army into three equal parts, having first chosen out a select Number, as a general reserve to answer all Emergencies: and because I was exceedingly over-power'd in Foot, I placed behind every Battalion of my Foot, a Reserve of Horse to

countenance and second them, which proved of no small use.

Secretly, behind the outwardmost divisions of our wings of Horse, I placed some of our best Archers, who when we were going to charge, discovered themselves, and thereby not only amazed, but so gall'd our Enemies with their Arrows, that the wounded Horses by their disorders made sufficient breaches for us to enter at: This too did not a little help us; but that which did most, was this which I am now going to tell you (for I never saw it practis'd before; and it was then of so great an ad∣vantage, that you will perhaps pardon my particularizing of it, and possibly one day have occasion to make use of it; which if you have, I wish it may be as successful to the followers, as to the beginner of it).

I found when our Armies faced one another, that the Enemy did much over-wing us, and that possibly therefore he had neglected to secure his left Flank with a deep stream which ran some three furlongs from it; so that he had so much of Champion-ground on that wing, and had much more on the other.

In our embatteling therefore I let him see how much he outwinged us on both sides; but when he moved to the Charge, I gave strict order to all my Army to shog still toward the right hand; so that by the time we came to mingle, we outwinged their Left Flank, as much as their Right Wing outwinged our Left, and thereby in a great measure shared the in∣conveniences with them, which by their numbers they might have entire∣ly cast upon us, if they had taken the advantage of the place in keep∣ing the stream on their left Flank.

I shall not trouble you in giving a minutes description of this days acti∣on; 'tis enough you know, though the Mithridatians did behave them∣selves like men of Honour, yet the Romans led by Nicomedes (for Mu∣rena had been dangerously wounded, and was carried off in the begin∣ning of the Fight, and all Nicomedes's Forces had been broken and dis∣pers'd) so signally manifested their Courages, and kept their Discipline, that I was twice reduced to our general Reserve, and to a Body of Foot which had been kept entire only by the help and countenance of some Horse which had been their Reserve.

That which had reduced us to this extremity, was not only the fall of Megabizes (who though he lost his Life, yet he got a Reputation which was much more worth) but also the dangerous wounds which Lingarus received, who thereby was carried out of the Field sensless and speech∣less, yet accompanied with so many elogies, that none which was a friend to Honour, would have declin'd the bloody rate at which he had pur∣chas'd his. Great gods! what did I not think! and what did I not say, when I saw my self reduced to so sad an extremity, to be worsted in Sta∣tira's quarrel, nay even in her sight, and thereby expose her to lose her own Liberty, whose Beauties were capable to deprive all men of theirs! To presume to lift up my eyes to such a person, and be defeated at the head of such an Army; To have had success enough to give me such exalted hopes, and then from the height of them to precipitate me, were considerations too too sufficient to make me cast my self into the arms of death, to put a period unto them.

I may truly say (generous Princes) that this despair made me act strange things, even worthy the fair Mithridatia's sight, and perhaps her commendation, which yet I even blusht at, to find that any motive could inspire my Arm, more than the Noblest Passion for the Noblest Object.

I kill'd in this fury Neoptolem•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the head of his Forces, and took Ariobarzanes in the Center of his, and by the help of Lingarus's Son, who had rallied a body of the young Bosphorian Nobility, I stop'd the current of Nicomedes's success, and thereby gave my own Forces time and opportunity to Rally, which they did, and with which we soon made our Friends see we were Conquerors, and our Enemies feel it.

Never was there in such a number so horrid an Execution, scarcely Ni∣comedes and Murena loaden with wounds, could recover a little Boat, which with much hazard carried them to Archilaus's Fleet, where he him∣self soon after did arrive, cursing Fortune which had given them such hopes, only to make their loss the more unsupportable.

But amidst the blood and confusion of our Victory, I caus'd the Name of Atafernes to be ecchoed in all places, and by all Persons under my Command, promising high Rewards to any which could bring me News of him: but finding those ways unsuccessful, I sent several parties of Horse towards the Sea, presupposing when the Enemy had seen the probability of their Defeat, they might have sent him towards their Fleet, as the only place to secure so considerable a Prisoner in.

And that nothing might be left unessay'd, and something acted ac∣cording to my own mind, galloped I my self away at the head of some Horse, to seek that generous Prince, for whose Freedom I had higher de∣sires than for Victory.

I was already come within sight of the Sea without discovering what I sought, and was even turning back when I perceived com∣ing out of a small Wood, a body of Horse, who bended their course towards a Galley which rode near the Shore, but yet they marched so leisurely, that I concluded in so general a Flight they carryed off some considerable Person, whose then condition would not admit of a speedier motion.

I therefore resolved to attempt them, and having sent some Horse to engage them, and to retard their March, I came up at last with those I had with me, and after some Resistance, broke and defeated the Enemy: But, O gods! what was my joy when I found in a Litter the Prince Ata∣fernes alive! but so weak and changed with his wounds, that 'twas some time before I knew him, and 'twas with much difficulty that he embra∣ced me.

This addition to the winning of the Battel, made me need but one de∣sire more. With Atafernes I joyfully took up our way to the Camp, whither as we were going, he so signally owned the services I pay'd him and his Family, and in such pressing words assur'd me, they had nothing in their power above my Merit, that thereby he flatter'd a Despair, which his fair Sister could only suppress.

He told me too, that he owed his life to me, before I had this last time redeem'd it; for Murena enraged at his wounds, and thinking the day would be lost, since those necessitated him to retire, had commanded his Soldiers (to whom I was a Prisoner, and who then guarded me) that if they could not recover the Fleet before they were overtook, they should put him to Death; which (being once pursued) they were about to per∣form, when by accident Nicomedes in his flight passing by, not only hin∣dred, but discharged those Romans of Murena, placed a Troop of Bithy∣nians and Cappadocians about me, with order if they were overtook, or worsted, they should leave me untouch'd; and having acquainted me therewith; he added, 'Twas for Callimachus's sake, who had desired his care of me.

This generosity I was inform'd of with much satisfaction, and with no less trouble, to find my Fate had destin'd me to be an Enemy to a Prince, who by many confinements merited my Service.

We were no sooner arrived at the Camp, than the shouts of Victory were drown'd in those Atafernes's life and Liberty occasioned in the Soldiers, whose joys yet had not a higher production, than a cause. 'Twas then I waited upon Ariobarzanes, where having pay'd him all the civilities due to his Title, and given him all those consolations due to his condition, I sent him to Mithridates, accompanied with the chief Officers of the Army.

But to let you see the instability of the most promising earthly condi∣tion, as I was inviron'd with some thousands of Conquerors, and in the embraces of a generous Prince, there came a young man of an excellent Meen, and in a Garb which shewed him to be of some quality, who de∣sired to speak with me, promising a piece of intelligence worthy my knowledg.

I must confess I trembled at it, fearing it might be some discovery where Nicomedes was concealed, and therefore I would have put him off; but he so pressingly importun'd my attention, that in the end I gave it him; but instead of what he promised, he plung'd a Dagger in∣to my breast up to the Handle, and would have doubled his stroke, but that I had strength enough left to force it out of his hand, and return his bloody present, at which he fell, and had only Life enough left to say, That he was Neoptolemus's Son; and that since I had destroy'd his Fa∣ther and Family, having no other way to act his Revenge, he had chosen that, which he hoped his high wrongs and necessitated condition would apologize for.

His immediate Death saved him from those torments the rage and grief of the Soldiers had design'd him; but such abundance of blood gushed out of my wound, that I soon after fell, and 'twas with much Art and pain, that my wound was bound up.

The generous Atafernes took me into his Littor; and the Palace in Nico∣media being the nearest place we could retire unto, we advanced thither.

Never was there Triumph so sad as this, and never was there Laurel and Cypress so exactly mingled; the whole Army march'd by the Littor carrying the Trophies of their success, and washing them with their tears; so that when the King, the Queen, and the Princesses, came to meet us at the Court-gate, to honour and share in the joy of our success, they found so many evincements of grief in all the Armies looks, that they knew not what to fear, and yet did fear every thing; the sadded Soldiers which marched in the first Ranks, gave so imperfect an account of what they were demanded, as did also all those which followed, that their eyes were their first and truest Intelligencers; and though at the same time they saw Atafernes alive, and free, yet seeing me with so little life by him, and all disfigured with blood, it seem'd to chase away all their causes of satisfaction; and I found by as sad, as high a proof, that my life was not inconsiderable to so many eminent Persons; and above all, to that fair Princess to whose Service I had devoted it: The shrieks she made when she saw me in so dangerous a case, drew me from that Dying∣slumber I had been in, and as soon as my eyes were open, they met with hers, which suddenly after wept such a deluge of tears, that had I not ascribed them all to her Noble Brother's condition, I had neither de∣plor'd my own, nor her grief.

I would have forc'd my self to rise, but I found I could not; which she perceiving, forbad me any more attempts of that nature; by which I had scarce strength enough humbly to acknowledg her care.

This made them the more hasten up to the Prince's Chamber, where he would have me lye, causing another Bed to be set up. We were no sooner in a condition to receive a visit, than the two Princesses, and the King gave us one (a sudden indisposition of the Queen's then confining her from stirring out) who after he had spent some time with me in e∣vincements of his satisfaction for what I had done, and sorrow for what I was reduced to, and in kindnesses to his Son; he went immediately after to the Queen's apartment, out of which he seldome did use to stir, when any distemper tyed her unto it: The two Princesses stayed with Atafernes, who perhaps to oblige me (for I believe he then suspected my Passion) desired his Favourite-Sister to entertain me, whilest he did the Princess Roxana.

That admirable person did me therefore the honour to come near my Bed, and told me; I see, Callimachus, how deceitful and uncertain all humane things are; for had I know that this day you should have brought us home Victory, and Atafernes, I could not have believed there had been unhappiness enough left to have clouded our satisfaction; but your wounds and danger make it impossible at once to express grati∣tude, and joy.

Madam, (I replyed) there can hardly be a higher evincement how unestimable most Worldly things deserve to be, than to see that so incon∣siderable a persons condition should cloud and disturb yours; but, Ma∣dam, how sad soever it appears, I have yet sufficient cause to bless the gods, which have given me life enough to deliver you from your Ene∣mies, your Brother from his imprisonment, and to see you once more, to give you such an account of the honour of your Commands: And possibly now there would remain no addition to these happinesses, but that I left the World, lest the future actions of my life might be inferiour to these, and consequently more unfit for you to receive, or me to pay.

The Actions you have perform'd (the Princess replyed) in a few days, are so signal and eminent, that upon the glory of that stock you may spend a longer life than your condition or courage will (I fear) lend you; and though in the future you should never more oblige us, what you have done already has left such deep impressions in me, that I must lose my memory to lose the sense I have of them; your favours be∣ing of the like quality with Life, which needs not still be renewed; it's first principle being so powerful, that it still carries it self on in the strength and vigour thereof.

Madam, I answered, by so telling me of what I have done, you tell me what I should have done, had my power of serving you proportioned my desire of it; and though you could flatter me into a belief, that you are so good as to credit what you say; yet that Rule I have set up to my self in serving you, does so far transcend all you have spoke, that whilest I do any thing short of what may be done, and whilst I ever intermit acting at that Rate, I am such a reproach unto my self, that my dissatis∣f••ction surpasses whatever you can imagine of it. At the end of these words, Mithridates came hastily into the Chamber, with what did more wound me than the young Neoptolemus Sword; 'twas with News that the King of Cyprus with a vast Fleet appeared before the Harbour, and

had sent some of his Nobility to advertise him thereof, and to beg his per∣mission to land, that he might offer his Forces to him, and his service to the Princess Statira.

Oh Gods! continued Callimachus, how great a torment this was you only know, and I only did feel; 'twas such, that before I could be ma∣ster over my own motions, I sighed so loud, that the Princess not only took notice of it, but had the goodness to enquire what had caus'd it: I was a thousand times going to tell her the truth, and then in a Sea of blood to have expiated the confidence of that discovery, as well as to have avoided that indignation it could not but have raised in her; but then the Majesty which shined in her eyes, which could not inspire me with higher admiration, than it did with reverenc and respect, stifled those thoughts even in their Birth, and rendred them guilty only in design, not in act.

But I was then as much troubled what to say, as I had been what not to say; and finding no better expedient than to attribute it to the pain of my wound, I made use of that, whereat she assumed so high a grief, that I perswaded my self she could not then entertain any other guest.

Mithridates observing the visible sadness in the Princess's eyes and looks, came towards her, and ask'd her, What could in such general cau∣ses of joy make her express so little of it? To which she replyed, Whilest the recovery of her Brother's wounds was so uncertain, and mine so dan∣gerons, the dictates of Nature and Gratitude would sufficiently apolo∣gize for her sorrow.

The King answered, there is so little fear for the one, and so much glo∣ry in the other, that I must not only desire but expect, that you will di∣vest your self of whatever may render you unlike that Statira, whose sha∣dow has conquered the King of Cyprus.

The Princess made no reply, but by bowing her self seemed to say, she had too long practis'd obedience, than to decline it.

The King at least (I believe) placed that interpretation upon what she had done, for he suddenly after went to the Port to receive his designed Son-in-law, who made so magnifick a descent from his Fleet, that all concluded he could not be less than a King, and a Lover.

In the mean while, the fair Statira continued alone in Atafernes Chamber, her Sister after Mithridates was gone, returning to Monyma, who otherwise had been left unaccompanied.

That generous Prince who perfectly lov'd her, beginning then to con∣sider, that to be Ascanius's (for so the Cyprian King was called) he must de deprived of her, told her; Would to the Gods, Statira, you did not consider duty above friendship, for then I might be certain to enjoy your Company whilest I enjoy'd my life; but now a Fathers power will give that happiness to a Stranger, which otherwise I should have pos∣sess'd; and that affection I have for you, must endure an absence which cannot more bless him, than trouble me.

These words he spoke so loud, that I not only heard them, but also that she thus answer'd him; If it were lawful to break those Tyes the gods have confined us unto, the King of Cyprus should have been exempted from giving both himself and me this trouble; but since the violating a Divine Rule cannot bring a satisfaction so great, as the sin is, I shall strive to evidence as little discontent in obeying Mithridates, as I am certain I should have done if he had commanded me not to receive any

addresses, which are to banish me from Atafernes, in whose affection and company I find so high a contentment, that I am capable of begging no higher than to be continued in it: Since, reply'd the Prince, you are devoted to that obedience, ah that Callimachus were King of Cyprus, I could then find some consolation in my loss, and without reluctancy part with my best happiness, to him I esteemed best worthy of it: Blush not Statira, at what I have spoke; for since I am unable any way to evince my friendship in Actions, deny me not the priviledg of doing it in wishes.

This (continued Callimachus) was so strange and unexpected an expression, and consequently had so universal an operation on me, that my wound gush'd out a bleeding, and thereby so entirely conquer'd those few spirits I had left, that casting open my arms, and fetching a deep groan, I fell into a swound.

The Princess was not so confounded at what her Brother had spoke, but that she had heard my last manifestation of life; so that turning her eyes towards me, she saw my condition, and therefore shriek∣ing out, she went hastily into the Anti-chamber, and called in all the servants which waited there, by whose help I was soon brought to my self again, and the Chirurgeons which some ran for, having bound up my wound, desired all persons to leave the room, lest I might repeat the like sad accident: Statira, who possibly was glad of such a pretence, civilly to decline her Brothers company, whilst he was addicted to discourses of that nature, having first desired me to take a special care of my self, which the more powerfully to in∣vite me to, she told me she should receive it as an obligation, immedi∣ately withdrew, and left me to contend with difficulties too strong for me, though I had not been reduced to a weakness, which for the many causes I had to despair, I rather wish'd were greater, than less.

Atafernes, not to oppose the prescriptions the Chirurgeons had made, continuing silent, thereby gave me the uninterrupted leave of enter∣taining my own thoughts, which were so confused, that for a while I could not reduce them to any method: but as soon as I had in some degree composed them, I began to consider, that Fortune continued her usual practise, and by mingling felicities and torments, gave me still at once cause to adore and hate her: The glories which the beginning of that day had thrown upon me, and the miseries which the conclusion of it had involved me in, appear'd so admirable, that though I enjoyed those, and felt these, yet I could hardly believe either: but when I began to consi∣der that all my Victories made but an easier way for my Rival to possess Statira; that the nearer I had acted to deserve her, made my deprivation of her the more sensible; and when that by a miracle her generous Brother had let fall expressions whereby without a crime I might in some measure have disclos'd what her thoughts were towards me, be∣fore she had pass'd any engagement to Ascanius, or have found so much cause of despair, as I might no longer have flattered my self into a su∣spence more unsupportable than the highest effect of it; then to fall into a fainting which had hinder'd it; I could no longer contain my self, but by loud exclaimings, condemn'd that Fate which I wanted power to pre∣vent or alter.

Atafernes finding thereby that his silence was so far from contributing to my good, that he apprehended it had done the contrary, soon broke it, and after some introductory discoursers, having first commanded all

those which in the outward Chamber might have been within hearing, to keep at a greater distance; told me, That friendship, Callimachus, which we have contracted, merits we should have nothing in reserve to each other; and if it does not confine you to tell me all the secrets you know, yet at least it does to acquaint me with the truth of those I shall disco∣ver: In a word, either my observations have strangely deluded me; or you have something in your breast, which though I may be concern'd in, yet I am kept a Stranger unto; and though possibly I might hitherto have had but cause to suspect it, yet what these few hours has produced, makes me confident of it; so that if any thing can perswade me to ex∣cuse your so long silence, it will be your persevering in it no longer.

You cannot but imagine (generous Princes) that what Atafernes then spoke, made me repeat as high Emotions as any that day I had been in∣vaded with; for I found my self necessitated either to deny the truth, and thereby become guilty to my Friend; or reveal it, and thereby be∣come guilty to my Princess: but at length, finding to adore her could not be a greater duty, than to conceal any thing from her Noble Brother, and be a crime; especially, he then extorting a confession from me by the powerfullest Rack, the conjuration of a Friend, blushing and trembling all-over, and fetching a deep sigh, I spoke to him to this effect: If, generous Prince, I have concealed any thing from you, it is that only which I thought unfit I my self should know; and I was too much con∣cern'd to continue the blessing of your esteem, to acquaint you with what might too justly invite you to deprive me of it: but since what I am to say is a pure effect of my obedience to your command, I do with less trouble lay my Secret before you, knowing you are too vertuous to require a discovery, and then abhor me for making it.

Here I paus'd a little, being startled at what I was about to say; but finding I had said so much, that not to speak more might be as ill resent∣ed as if I spoke all, I thus continued; I must confess, great Prince, I must confess the beauties of your admirable Sister gave me the confi∣dence of lifting up my eyes towards her, or rather denyed me the possi∣bility of doing otherwise; and ever since I first beheld her, I have lan∣guished away in flames which only her eyes are able to kindle, and which death only is able to quench; 'tis therefore that long since I had em∣braced that cure, had I not thought I was obliged as much to be just to her, in punishing my sin, as I had been to her beauties, in committing it; and therefore not to put a period to my torments was too much a duty, to let the ease of ending it perswade me to so criminal an Act: this, great Prince, hath hitherto kept me from laying violent hands upon my self, and perhaps I might not lye if I assur'd you, I have had as high a dispute, not to embrace that remedy, as I have had to avoid that presumption which will render it necessary.

This is that concealment I have so long labour'd under: and if now I have discover'd it, permit me to say it springs from a friendship as great as my passion; and nothing inferior unto that, could have made me discover this.

Now you know my miserable condition, be not, I beseech you, so cruel as to deny me your pity, if you do your pardon.

After I had done speaking, Atafernes was some time before he an∣swer'd me: but at last he thus spoke; If I have been so long silent, 'tis not that I am surpriz'd with what you have now said; for I consider it rather as a confirmation of what I formerly thought, than a disclosure of

what I was ignorant of, but yet I see so infinite a distance between what you aim at, and what possibly I wish you may possess, that I do not only believe your unhappiness is great, but also I highly sympathize with you in it.

Statira's disposition, Mithridates's authority and engagement, Asca∣nius's passion and presence, joyned with the ignorance of your extracti∣on, are difficulties so insuperable, that to assure you of all my assistance, is to promise you at once whatever I am capable of, and yet nothing: But yet not to leave any thing unessay'd, and to let you see I am your Friend in impossibilities, as well as in things of hope, I will not only let her know your passion, but employ all my interest in her, to make her approve and accept it.

I will tell her, That the Sword which has captivated Kings, will pre∣sent her with Kingdoms: that vertue is preferable to power; and that being more a friend to her Happiness, than her Titles, I will conjure her to elect Callimachus without a Crown, sooner than Ascanius with one.

This, dear Callimachus, is all I can do, and this therefore is the least I will do; wherein if the success answers not my endeavours, be confident I shall resent as vast a trouble thereat, as you your self can, and where my power cannot serve you, my friendship shall suffer with you.

Generous Prince (I reply'd, bowing my self as low as my wounds would admit) you have already manifested so much obligingness and condescention to me, that I find my scores of gratitude are as unpayable to the brother, as those of adoration are to the Sister: you have done so much in the best extream, that nothing but my acceptance thereof could make me do the like in the worst. But, Sir, I have not told you my Se∣cret to invite your assistance, but to illustrate my obedience; and if I expect your favour in any thing, 'tis in your pardon, not your solicita∣tion; which latter yet I cannot more want, than I desire the former. No, Sir, though my Star's have destin'd me to a passion for the Princess with∣out hope, yet it is not without satisfaction; and what I should not pati∣ently undergo as their imposition, I shall as her due.

Possibly (said Atafernes, interrupting me) You cannot think this Dis∣course fitter for you, than I do, that acting the contrary is so for me; and therefore as I do not quarrel with you for making such desires, so I shall expect you will not be offended with me, if I grant them not: Mi∣thridates owes her unto you, and she owes her self unto you; and though you have not a Kingdom to give her, yet this day you have given her Fa∣ther one, and preserved him another, whereby you have made his condi∣tion such, that he need not find that a want in you.

Doubtless he would have given you Statira this Morning to have been certain of what you have placed him in this Evening; therefore why should you despair he would buy success at a higher Rate than he will re∣ward it? for my Fathers promises to the King of Cyprus, they were made but to engage him to undertake that which you have performed without him, and thereby not only removed the invitation to that performance, but secured Mithridates against the Cyprian's resentment at it, should he have any: besides, our new Lover may be perswaded to lay aside that Title by Statira's appearing averse unto it, which if the King once give her a Rise to do, let it be my care to improve it to that height your con∣dition will need, and my friendship will therefore undeniably endeavour: it is not a new thing for a Lover to fail of his Mistress's affection, nor for a Father in that case to decline making his Daughter miserable, to prevent a strangers becoming so.

He will more secure his Empire, and probably enlarge it in tying you by his alliance to his service, than by giving his Daughter to any Neigh∣bour Prince; the doing the like is an action so common, that it seldom produces an effect which is extraordinary; but the bestowing of Statira upon Callimachus, will not appear more rare to the World, than 'twill prove advantageous to him; for what returns may not be expected, when the largest cause of gratitude is placed upon a person the most replenish'd with it; and to whom the gods have given so much vertue and courage, that thereby his power of being thankful, will equal his will!

As for Statira, I strangely mistake, if she will not prefer him who de∣serves a Crown, before him that only wears one; and when I shall acquaint her with your passion for her, and my friendship for you, possibly if the one does not move, the other may; and the just ascendent she hath over Mithridates, may prevail with him to free her from Ascanius; and your repeated services may in time force him to believe no Reward under her deserves that Name; so that when it comes in competition, whether he must do nothing, or so much, he will rather elect This, than that.

Ah Sir, I reply'd, Do not, I beseech you, so much as mention acquaint∣ing the fair Statira with my flame: I am scarce able to undergo my own knowledg of it, and therefore shall never be able to support hers: your pardoning my Crime is so much above my desert; and your offering to attempt to reward it, is so much above my hope, that I cannot be that greateful person you were pleased to speak me, if I did not hinder your undertaking a design which must lose you, your Father and your Sister, and that too upon my account: No, generous Prince, let not my passion make any other unhappy, nor give me so low an opinion of my offence, as to find by such an experiment, as great a misery as it self can befall me by it.

My afflictions will either be supportable, and then they will not need your care; or unsupportable, and then my death will render me uncapa∣ble of it.

Do not, I beg you, believe I do this out of a modesty which none could want that had so many pregnant causes to raise it; but out of conviction that I am tied in duty, when she knows I have done her the highest injury out of my power, to do her also the highest Right is in my power to pre∣sent her; to dare to have said I love her, is That; and to dare to kill my self afterwards, is this; so that if you would not have me punish my self, now I have accused my self, let that be a secret to you, which shall be one besides to all the World.

Many such implorings, continued Callimachus, I was forced to make, and many such reasons to present to his consideration, before I could ex∣tort that promise from him which I had so passionately desired; which soon after I had obtained, a Gentleman came to tell us the Cyprian King was entred the Palace, and was gone to wait upon the Queen and the Princesses; and not long after Mithridates accompanied with Ascanius, came to visit Atafernes. Gods! What agitations was I exercised under, when I not only saw my Rival come into the Chamber, but found him a person of an admirable good Meen, and of a fashion not inferiour: I must acknowledg I was so mean, as then to hope I might discover in his Dis∣course what might have secur'd those fears his outside had raised in me; but it was but just I should be defeated of so low and unworthy a hope, and so I was; for I found in what he spoke to the Prince, he was as much beholding to Nature, and Education, for the gifts of his

mind, as he had been to either, for those of his Body.

After his civilities were performed to Ataphernes, the King told him; This room, Sir, contains a person worthy your knowledg, and by whose courage and success you have enjoy'd so peaceable an en∣try here.

The merits of Callimachus (said Ascanius) are so well known to me though his person be not, that though the motives be very high which make me desire his friendship, yet they cannot exceed the passion I have to acquire, or merit it. After these words, he saluted me with so much obligingness, and with so good grace, that in spight of all the causes I had to abhor him, I could not abstain from giving him a Reply, that relish'd of that civility which had acted over my resentments such a Con∣quest.

After many discourses of an usual quality, Mithridates took a Rise to inform him by retail, of all those transactions which had hapned so re∣cently within and near Nicomedia; and did it with such elogies in my fa∣vour, that Ascanius cryed out; Happy Callimachus! that not only per∣form'd the highest things, but acted them for and before the persons most worthy of them: would to the gods I had by all my blood purchas'd that glory, which has cost you but a part of yours.

Mithridates, who found by this ardent ejaculation, that the subject of his discourse had rather rais'd Ascanius envy, than satisfaction, by de∣grees disintangled himself out of what he had so far engaged in, and then conducted him to his apartment, where all things relish'd of the highest Luxury Asia was never guilty of, or the profusest Actor of it, ever practis'd.

He was not long gone, when the Queen (then recovered of her in∣disposition) with the two Princesses came to visit Atafernes, who ear∣nestly enquiring how he made his first addresses, received an assurance from both those which were least concerned in it, that never man had in such an occasion, acquitted himself with so much gallantry: His humili∣ty to Statira was at once full of deep respect, and of Majesty; as if there∣by he would shew, to be a King, and her Slave, were not inconsistent, but rather that this Title did help to heighten that; his looks had in them at once so much passion mingled with reverence, that either seem'd to be as uncapable of addition, as change; and his discourse and entertianment had peculiar charms: so that in effect there were hard∣ly any of the senses which found not in him, sufficient to captivate them.

These, and many other expressions as wounding to me, fell from Mo∣nyma and Roxana, which the obliging Atafernes easily guest, and there∣fore made the more haste to put a period to them; which when he had done, the Queen leaving her two Companions with their Brother, came to me, and observing they were probably engaged in a discourse with him, which might not suddenly interrupt hers with me, she began it in these words: If at your return with so much glory, I did not come to con∣gratulate it with you, I may truly say, you are the cause thereof: for when I saw the bloody rate of your purchase, a sudden horrour so invaded me, that till now I could not free my self from so many of its effects, as to be able to visit you, and to let you know why I did not so, sooner.

Madam, I reply'd, that little blood I have spent in your service, is too prodigally pay'd, by what you now are pleased to act, and speak; and had I known my wounds had so sensibly touched you, they

would have been more painful to me upon that account than their own.

I should (she answer'd blushing) have believed those words, had they been spoken to me at Miletus, or were I a person not far from hence, who though I must confess merits them better, yet perhaps would not receive them with that satisfaction I should, if I thought them not words of Civility, rather than Truth.

Madam, I replyed, (being somewhat moved to be still struck by her in so sensible a place, and, if possibly, to make her think she was mi∣stook) permit me to say, that had you never given me cause any more to doubt your words, than I have given you to doubt mine; you had been free from the trouble of such discourses, and I from the unhappiness of your believing I deserved them.

Alas Callimachus (said she, interrupting me) why do you delight so much to torment me, as not only to mind me of my unhappiness but to acquaint me you think I was the Author of it: No, I attest the gods, I would now, even with joy descend from the Throne, to be that to you, which I am to Mithridates; and rather be his who deserves the greatest Empire of the World, than his who possesses it: but (she continued, letting some few tears steal from her eyes) since the gods have other∣wise designed it, I beg but this, That you will esteem it a punishment sufficient for me to have lost you, and do not augment it so much as to let me see another has got you; this is all the unfortunate Monyma desires; and if there be any unreasonableness therein, ascribe it to a passion which makes me act more illegitimate things for you, than I ask of you.

She went away at the end of these words without staying for an an∣swer; and telling the company a relapse of her indisposition was going to assault her, she hastily retir'd to her apartment; and not long after the hour of rest being come, Atafernes enjoyning me to try if I could take any, and endeavouring the like himself, thereby gave me a licence to reflect upon some things past, which so powerfully entertained my thoughts, that I could not for some time so much suppress them, as by sleep to enjoy that refreshment my mind and my body but too much wanted.

These last words of the Queen, I soon concluded, sprang from a passi∣on which would not be easily quenched, and which had a being would so much interrupt any progress in that I pay'd the fair Statira, that it self would have been a sufficient impediment, had I conquer'd the misfor∣tune of many greater.

I was too proud at my insensibility, when I saw a Queen weeping before me, and one so full of youth, and beauty, that she could not be a greater wonder for her Charms, than I was in resisting them.

I must confess I was a little grieved, that so signal an evincement of my constancy should not be known to her who was the cause of it; but then when I consider'd that the misfortune could not be greater, than consequently the merit of it was, I concluded she deserved all I could suffer, and therefore I had more cause to rejoyce I had done so much, than to be troubled that she knew no more.

Whilest I entertain'd these parts of my fate, it was only with sorrow: but when I thought upon those parts which related to Ascanius, how he was come to rob me of my hopes, which was all I had left, or indeed ever had, and how a few days would invest him in that felicity I was to

lose, Rage and Resentment so entirely govern'd all my faculties, that if I did not follow the extreamest dictates of them, 'twas only because I thought them too low and disproportionate to their cause.

At last, not having strength enough to persevere in such entertain∣ments, sleep by degrees began to conquer me, and held me a Prisoner for some few hours, which yet it could not have so long done, but by letting Dreams continue what my waking had begun; whereby, and by the emo∣tion of the precedent day, the next Morning I found my wound was so inflamed, and my Body so feaverish, that the Chirurgeons doubted of my Life, and informed Atafernes so much; who easily imagining the cause, having freed the Room of all which waited in it, told me so many flat∣tering things, and then so reiterately vowed if I mended not, he would tell Statira what caused my languishments, that partly through hope, but much more for fear of that, I began patiently to receive those Medi∣cines which the Physicians & the Chirurgeons prescrib'd, whereby in few days I was past all danger of Death, as I wish'd I had been of Life. I knew not with what design I liv'd; and yet I could not oppose my doing so, carried on by an internal motion, whose cause I was as ignorant of, as unable to resist its effects.

Mithridatia, every day she visited her Brother, had so much humility as to enquire of me of my own health, and as my answers were of its impairing or mending, so her looks put on melancholy or satisfaction.

Atafernes was so generous as constantly to enquire of the Princess what progress Ascanius had made in the acquisition of her esteem, yet could never learn any thing from her, but that her duty to Mithridates had left her nothing but obedience.

This strange perseverance and submissiveness that generous Prince ac∣quainted me with, and thereby prepared me to receive a stroak, which soon after wounded me; but alas! not enough to relieve my pain, but increase and continue it.

'Twas with the fatal News, that at the expiration of fourteen days Mi∣thridates had publickly declared the Nuptials between Statira and Asca∣nius should be celebrated; who thereupon sent half of his Fleet into the Euxine Sea, to conquer what that Element had saved of Nicomedes, Ario∣barzanes, and Murena's ruins: The revolt of Archilaus and Neoptolemus having depriv'd the Pontick King of most of his Naval-forces, and his de∣sign'd Son-in-law's being so strong, that he rather thought that propor∣tion of the largest, than the least; reserving also the residue to carry back his Queen with more pomp into Cyprus, which happy Countrey had been once destin'd to the Queen of Love, and now to a Beauty which more justly merited that Title.

In the mean while Pharnaces returned with his Army, more troubled that his Father had by Atafernes received his deliverance, than if he had entirely failed of it: and if he had any thoughts which refresh'd him, they were only those which did rise from the speedy probability of Statira's removal, and consequently of his Brother's being thereby deprived of his powerfullest Friend; and therefore he so incessantly prest the speedy celebration of the Nuptials, that thereby he gained as high an interest in Ascanius, as a performance so acceptable to an impatient Lover could pos∣sibly procure.

At last the Eve of the long'd-for day arrived, and now nothing was seen but preparatives for celebrating of it, which was to produce the highest extreams in the Cyprian King and me. The Armies had received

orders to express their Military joys in all those ways which could give the highest evidence of them; the Streets were already beautified with triumphal Arches; The Courtiers did all strive who should out-shine each other; The Priests had prepared herds of Sacrifices; And in a word, all things had put on their chearfullest looks, but Statira, Ata∣fernes, and I; the first continuing that same equal temper which had been so long her practice, that I fear'd it was turn'd her Nature; the second sympathizing in his Friends sorrows, wore them so visibly, that they were at once both my comfort and my trouble; the third you may too too ea∣sily imagine had such infinite causes of grief, that their effects were pro∣portionate.

Had it been the hour of my Death which was come so near me as the hour of losing Statira, I should have consider'd it with much less trouble.

Sometimes I resolv'd to go and tell her I ador'd her with a passion which could much rather make me elect the Grave, than to see her As∣canius's; and though I was able to live and not possess her, yet I was unable to live and see another do it, and then act that truth as well as speak it; sometimes I resolved to let the Cyprian King know how abso∣lutely impossible it was for him to enjoy Statira, and I my life, and therefore that he must deprive me of This to possess That, and thereby either avoid being sensible of my loss, or hinder him from acting it: some∣times too I thought of going to Mithridates, of laying my Services be∣fore him; and of acquainting him Ascanius had never acted, but what all men living would, adored the highest Beauty, and desired to enjoy her; that my Sword had put him past the needing such a Friend, or at least the buying him at such a Rate; that if he would make her the blessing of my Services, I would engage to carry his Ensigns where the Roman Eagles yet could never flye, and seat her in a Throne as little unworthy of her, as the Earth could produce; that as soon as Mithridatia's Beauty was as well known to the World as to Ascanius, all the Kings of it would do more for hope of that Reward than Ascanius could do for possessing it: sometimes too I was determin'd to present my self to those Forces to whom I had so often shewed the way to Victory, and by disclosing my despair, have provoked their Swords to have cured it.

These and many as extravagant thoughts were the productions of my distemper, which when a little consideration had let me see they were, I cast them off as such.

But though my Reason shew'd me what I was not to do, yet it could not what I was to do; so that when the Night came, the last Night of all my hopes, I was as unresolv'd what to do, as I was certain, doing nothing, what I was to suffer.

I had some little glimpse of comfort, to feel I was not able to go to the Temple, and be a looker on, lest thereby I might have been snatch'd from my self, and forced into a Revenge, which I had so long endea∣voured to reason (at least perswade) my self out of; but this appear∣ing only a hindering of me from doing ill, and not any thing of advance∣ment in my doing well, I had as little time to reflect upon it, as I have spent in telling it.

The generous Atafernes did scarce abandon me one moment, knowing my condition needed all the consolation, though it was above all service of a Friend. The Night was not an hour old, when Ascanius leading in Statira, came into Atasernes Chamber, which bare sight had near over∣thrown

thrown all the sober thoughts of the preceding day, but they stay'd not long, Mithridates carrying them away to see some fires of joy the Nicome∣dians had made to grace the Eve of the intended Marriage: some two hours after, Atafernes and I, having disengag'd our selves from our many Visitors, went to try if we could walk in a Gallery contiguous to his Bed-chamber; where we had not long been, when Statira and Roxana came into it to visit their Brother, having miss'd him in his Chamber.

That obliging Prince so dexterously managed the business, that heg ot his elder Sister to him at one end of the Gallery, and lest me with my Princess at the other.

I thought this was an opportunity not to be lost, and yet could not imagine how it might be improved, but to begin a Descourse which might give me the opportunity to say something, if by a Miracle I should find a Rise for my so doing: I told her, You are now (Madam) going to place Ascanius in a felicity so great, that if thereby you could place your self in a resembling one, you would not leave your Servants any thing to wish, or your self to desire.

I know not (she replyed) whether my satisfaction will be great, I am certain my obedience is: but acting what lyes on my part, I shall have this comfort, that if the end answers not my expectation, I may condemn my Fate, but not my self.

Ah Madam! I answer'd, Permit me to believe you go upon a clearer Principle than you mention; for else what comfort can it be to you, if As∣canius should not still be as much your Servant & Adorer, as he is now to know your misfortune is an effect of your vertue; and that your obedi∣ence which you so highly magnifie, should make you more miserable than the declining of it could possibly have done? No, Madam, I cannot but believe, if it were fit for me to beg a knowledg of the Truth, or that you should condescend so low as to speak it, but that the Charms of As∣canius's Person and Conversation contribute as much to his happiness, as your obedience to Mithridates.

You make me blush (the Princess reply'd, passing her hand before her Face); but yet if you are not seemingly but really concern'd in what you say, I will satisfie your doubts.

Concern'd Madam! I hastily answer'd; Yes Madam, I am concern'd, and shall be whilst I live, in all things relating to you; and therefore, Ma∣dam, permit me to beg of you a certainty of that upon which I must ground all my felicity or trouble, because by it I must judg of yours.

Then, said Statira, I do assure you it, as a real Truth, that nothing renders Ascanius more acceptable to me, than Mithridates Commands, and possibly I should not lye if I said nothing else; but then I tell you as great a truth when I say, That that it self is more powerful with me than any thing which can flow from my own inclinations; for I know by observing those I may err, but by observing that I cannot.

For as to what you mention'd, that it would add unto my trouble to consider that my Vertue occasion'd it; I answer, it would much more af∣flict me to avoid an evil by an evil, than to endure an evil for having done what was good: for the event is only in the power of the gods, but the performance of Duty is in my own.

Never, continued Callimachus, never did any words at once so much cure and so much wound as these; and never was any confidence higher rewarded and higer punished, than mine, which asking such a question, received such an answer.

But, not to appear too much surprised at what she had last said, I reply∣ed; I have heard, Fortune delights to make some men perfectly happy, and some as perfectly miserable; which last I have, and do experiment, and the first you have now justified in Ascanius: for nothing could cloud his felicity, but to know, your obedience only does invest him in it, and that he is as unlikely to know, as not knowing it he is unlikely to think any happiness is equal to his; or indeed if he knew it, it might still leave him in that condition: for what you say would not be highly consider∣able, when what you do is so infinitely so: Nor, Madam, will I presume to argue in the furture against your obedience, since I feel you are so un∣changeably fix'd upon it, and so far engaged in it, that though I might convince your Reason, I should not be able to change your Resolution; Pardon me, Madam, if I have made use of an expression, which had been too arrogant had I spoke it upon my own score; and may be pardonable from so great a goodness as yours, it being spoken on your generous Bro∣ther's, who will not only by your Marriage be deprived of his power∣fullest supporter, even when Pharnaces's anger will most need your con∣tinuing such; but also tear you from him, whom he as certainly values above all things, as you merit to be so; And if, Madam, after what I have said, I may be permitted to mention any thing so low and inconsiderable as my own contentment, excuse me if I say, After you are Queen of Cyprus, I shall never expect to see any: the sadness that Title will involve your Noble Brother in, were there no other consideration, will strike me with a grief I should much rather elect to dye by, than to live under.

This, generous Princes, (continued Callimachus) was all I did say, and indeed all I durst; and I had more reason to think I had spoke too much than too little, when I heard her thus answer; Would to the gods, Calli∣machus, I had miss'd this last discourse with you, for it hath left so deep an impression in me, that I can hardly hope it will ever be defaced.

I confess I tremble when I think upon Pharnaces humour, and how naked Atafernes will be left when I am removed at a distance, unable to do him those Services my interest in my Father gave me hitherto power to pay him. I cannot too, without horror, reflect upon my eter∣nal separation from that poor Prince, in whose Society and friendship I have enjoy'd a happiness I must despair of finding in all things else: I must also confess, I resent no little trouble at my being to be banished from Callimachus, who has placed on me so many indelible Obligations, and in whom without flattery I have found such eminent and singular worth, that I know nothing he could wish that I do not wish him: nay, I attest the gods, had they made me the Distributor of their Rewards, I would joyfully have placed him in whatever he ambitions, and that with∣out any reservation: This, generous Callimachus, is all my unhappy con∣dition makes me able to do for you, and therefore I hope will be accept∣ed of by you,

Madam, I replyed, prostrating my self at her Feet (which I the bold∣lier did, because I saw Roxana and Atafernes had their Backs towards us, and were looking out of a Window) what you are, and what you say, makes me attest the self-same gods as my Witnesses, That had I by Birth or Virtue possessed all the Empires of the World, I would have lay'd all them and my self at your Feet; and have more gloried in doing that, than in commanding them: But since the gods have concealed from me my Birth, and given me only a Sword to raise my self with, whereby I am unable to act any thing worth your acceptance, permit me at least

to say, what my performances should have said for me; that never, ne∣ver was there any passion like to that I have for your Service, and ne∣ver any life could be so nobly employ'd, and ended as I should think mine would be were it to be spent, and were I to dye therin; nor would I ever desire a higher recompence for doing so, than I should receive in doing so: Possibly, Madam, studying too much for what I should say, I mind not well what I say, and therein may have offended; by which you may in some measure judg what an unfortunate person I am, that even for those expressions by which I would deserve your favour, I must abso∣lutely need it.

But (Madam) will you pardon me, if I am forced to ask you if you do not think there is as just a debt due to a Friend that is also a Brother, as to a Father? and whether you have endeavoured all you can to pay that, before you engage your self so positively to pay this. I know (Ma∣dam) I could scarce be guilty of this confidence, nor were it indeed pardonable, but upon the score of the Prince Atafernes, whose content∣ment you have so often recommended to my care, that I had rather trouble you in obeying that command, than avoid doing it by so criminal a silence.

The fair Statira having first commanded and made me to rise: told me, Your care for my Brother which I have so often recommended to you, is so much my desire, and has been so much my satisfaction, that I cannot condemn any production of it, though this does both violate what you even now promised, and encreases a grief which is of it self already but too unsupportable; and therefore I will not scruple to assure you, that in the sense of my being to be banished from A••afernes, I have been so importunate with Mithridates to free me from Ascanius addresses, that you cannot think me so religious a worshipper of Obedience, as I fear he does the contrary.

Let this truth therefore which I have now spoke, and which I am re∣solved never to speak again, or ever thought to disclose, be sufficient to absolve me in your judgment; and hence forwards do not condemn, but pity an unfortunate person, who having tryed all just ways to avoid being so, has at last elected to submit to a Fate, which she cannot decline, but by what would render her too worthy of it.

Here (said Callimachus) that admirable Equality which this fair Princess had so unintermissively practised, was overcome by some tears which the end of her Discourse drew from her, which suddenly after being asham'd of, and to let me fee hers had rather been surprised than conquered, drying up her fair eyes, and putting on her usual looks she told me: I know not, Callimachus, what influence you have ov•••• me, but you have made me do and say more than I thought even 〈◊〉〈◊〉 nes himself could.

And since you have so far pierced into my secrets, allow me a little to enquire after yours, and tell me what Discourse you could have with the Queen, which could send her so hastily, and in such disorders from you? for if I be not much deceived, her Eyes were full of Tears, and her Face of sadness, when she retired.

Ah, Madam, I replyed, After what you have told me, do not think I am capable of doing any thing but of lamenting your condition, and of of∣fering you my Sword and Life to redress it.

The gods forbid (she hastily answer'd) you should have so criminal a thought: No, Callimachus, I tell you positively, if ever you should again mention such a thing to me, much more endeavour it, you would cast me in∣to

greater miseries than you would free me from, and convert that high friendship I have for you, into a proportionate hate.

Before the Princess had fully ended these words, Pharnaces came into the Gallery, and thereby put a period to an entertainment which had darkly given me some small satisfaction, and had clearly discovered, that was all I was to expect.

As soon as the Princesses and Pharnaces were gone, I gave Atafernes a million of acknowledgments for that opportunity I had derived from his favour, and an account how I had employ'd it.

I will not trouble you with a relation of those generous offers he made me of acting himself what Statira's commands had bound me from; nor of those reasons and prayers I made use of to divert him from it. Nei∣ther will I tell you how I entertained my self that fatal night, during which I slept as little as I do now; being too sensibly afflicted with the considerations, that it should be the last of my hopes; and that my mi∣sery was denied the common consolation of having it build the felicity of my Mistris, who in one performance was to make her self and me un∣happy. Nor indeed can I tell you all those confused thoughts my Love and Despair dictated to me, which left me not till the day appeared, and that the hurry and noise of the preparatives for the Nuptials, made me to begin to feel I was to provide to endure an unhappiness I was not able to prevent.

Here Callimachus observing the heat of the Sun began to be too offen∣sive, and by this time being come to the River Cyris (which not many furlongs off, continuing still navigable, falls into the Euphrates) the banks whereof were shaded with divers Trees which might afford an obliging shelter against that Enemy they endeavour'd to avoid, desired Artabba∣nes and Artavasdes to take the benefit of that natural defence, whilst his Servants would prepare an Entertainment as good as the place would af∣ford.

Our two Heroes had been so pleas'd with his Relation, that (doubt∣less) had they not had more care of him, than of themselves, they would have declin'd accepting of such a proffer, especially in such a part of his History; but the Laws of Respect being more prevalent than those of their curiosity, they left the high-way, and took a path which led them to a tust of Trees which had many neighbours of the like bigness and growth; but when they came thither, they saw an Horse tied unto an Oak, at the foot whereof the Master of him lay: His Armour was all black, without any thing in it which might give the least rise to judg the cause of his sadness; and his face was turned to the ground, whereby they were disenabled from the hopes of discovering who he was by a fight thereof.

The noise which they made when they came near him, did not alter the posture he was in; whereby they concluded a deep sleep, or a pro∣portionate sorrow had seized upon him; and therefore they withdrew to another shady place not far from thence: but before they had well seated themselves in it, they discovered a Boat ascended the River by force of Oars, which soon after came to the Shore on the same side they were of, out of which there landed a young Gentleman of an admira∣ble Meen; and soon after there descended out of the same Boat by his help, two Ladies, which though vail'd, had yet in their stature and fa∣shion so admirable a grace, and so like unto Parthenissa's and Altizera's, that had not Artabbanes and Artavasdes esteem'd it as great a crime to

have thought any therein could have resembled their Princesses, as an impossibility that these could be them, they must have judged against their eyes, or have concluded the first of them had seen a miracle, and the last what he would as much have priz'd.

These two excelent persons being landed, there came out of the Boat after them only three Women, and as many Men, who all together took the way to neighbour-Village, to go to which they were unavoidably to pass not far from the Thicket where Callimachus and his generous Friends were; who observing it, took as conceal'd places, and as near the way as they could. Soon after the Strangers coming thither, and find∣ing they needed the shade they were in, that lovely young man which led them, advised their continuance there, whilst he sent one of the ser∣vants before to prepare an accommodation for them in the Village, or to carry them to the Vestal Nuns at the Temple.

This motion being assented unto by all, and a servant employ'd about it; he that made it, having first sent away all the rest at a good distance, embracing and kissing the two Beauties which were with him, told them; This recompence of my services which I now take, you will both confess is not above their merit: for now I have brought you within a few ••ur∣longs of the place to which I undertook to conduct you, where I hope the gods will soon give you cause to believe they will henceforth reward that Constancy they have so long permitted men to persecute; and pos∣sibly the mercy of preserving us in so long a journey, is but an earnest of a greater.

I confess (one of the two repli'd) this last smile of Fortune is more than we have been acquainted with this long while, and might therefore invite us to believe she has a mind to be reconciled: but I have found her so treacherous, that whilst she can be my Enemy, I must fear she will. You know too we are not yet safe; neither do I know, till I hear of my generous Friend, whether my condition will require being so: possibly what he may have heard already, has occasion'd him to do that which may invite me to believe, what I have been freed from, may be that which I may wish had not been, and which I may have cause to elect again.

Ah, Madam, the other repli'd, how preferable is your condition to mine! you but fear that loss which I have already suffer'd. 'Tis true (said she that had first spoken), but then you are to consider, though the generous Prince you have lost, possessed your affection, yet there is a ge∣nerous Prince living, who deserves it, and who you have confess'd had a juster title to it than he which by death has now lost it. You are (Ma∣dam) a felicity great enough for two, and therefore the gods have destin'd you to reward those two which have best merited it.

Oh gods! Madam, the other repli'd, Be pleased not to wound me afresh with such remembrances, mine being a grief, which if it be to be con∣quered, will be better so, by time, than by discourse.

I know not, said the young Gentleman, what others may do hereafter, but for the present I pretend so great an interest in you both, and you dai∣ly give me such evincements of it, that if either of your former Lovers should chance to see it, they would conclude me more happy than they could expect to be; and think I had took too large a possession, to be cast out of it, or possibly that 'twere vvorth their pain to do it: But since your discourses rob you of your quiet, and that sleep may restore you to it, I vvould move you till the return of your Servant, to endeavour to take all this place vvill afford you.

This motion being relished by both, he took off a loose garment he had on, and spreading it upon the ground, the two Ladies and he laid themselves upon it, and having all of them embraced each other, endea∣voured in that posture to find a repose which the distemper of their bo∣dies, but much more those of their minds did render so necessary.

All the while these lovely Strangers were thus discoursing, and thus doing, Artabbanes and Artavasdes were in transports higher than till then they had ever been acquainted with: for though many things in those two Ladies resembled Parthenissa and Altezeera, yet their voices did it in such perfection, that our Heroes were often going openly to have resol∣ved their doubts, and had certainly done so, if their immodest kisses and embraces had not assured them of thelr mistake.

Artabbanes could much sooner believe his Princess was revived, than that she should be unchast; and Artavasdes, as perfect a Lover as he was, could easilier believe that another might be like Altezeera, than that she could do things so unlike her self: so that whatever hopes or thoughts their ears and sight had given them, were destroyed by the actions of those two fair Strangers.

A thousand times they ran over all the words they had spoke; and though they found therein something which might have come from their two Princesses, had the one been living, and the other in that place; yet other parts of it had so little connection with those, that the repetitions they made, served rather to encrease their wonder, than resolve their doubts; sometimes also they believed it a delusion of the Devil's, who conspiring with Fortune, endeavoured in this last essay to conquer Con∣stancies which till then they could never but assault: They were some∣times too about to try if they could see their Faces plainly, which during their discourse they had but imperfect glimpses of. But those resolutions soon vanished: for to think those could be Parthenissa and Altezeera which had done such strange things, would have appeared as admirable in our Heroes, as that very Immodesty would have done in their Prin∣cesses.

But Callimachus, who perceived their disorders, and who being the least interessed, was the fittest to counsel them, advised they would leave Symander in that concealment from whence they had made their discove∣ry, and that they themselves would retire to a shade at a farther distance, where they might take some refreshment, and the better consider and advise what was to be done when Symander should bring notice of their being awake.

This proposal was no sooner made, than accepted of; and our two Heroes, with Callimachus, went to a place within sight of the first, where having received a refreshment more proportionate to the Prince of Ve∣nus's Priest, than the place, they conjur'd him to prosecute his Story, though what they had seen and heard, gave them impatiencies, which nothing but their desires of knowing so generous a Friend's Fortunes, could have dispensed with.

Callimochus at length vanquished with their perswasions, and believing the Strangers might employ as much time in sleep, as he should in telling the remainder of his Adventures, in these terms did begin where he had left off.

The End of the Fifth Part of the History of PARTHENISSA.