Clelia, an excellent new romance the whole work in five parts, dedicated to Mademoiselle de Longueville / written in French by the exquisite pen of Monsieur de Scudery, governour of Nostredame de la Garde.

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Title
Clelia, an excellent new romance the whole work in five parts, dedicated to Mademoiselle de Longueville / written in French by the exquisite pen of Monsieur de Scudery, governour of Nostredame de la Garde.
Author
Scudéry, Madeleine de, 1607-1701.
Publication
London :: Printed and are to be sold by H. Herringman, D. Newman, T. Cockerel, S. Heyrick, W. Cadman, S. Loundes, G. Marriot, W. Crook, and C. Smith,
1678.
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"Clelia, an excellent new romance the whole work in five parts, dedicated to Mademoiselle de Longueville / written in French by the exquisite pen of Monsieur de Scudery, governour of Nostredame de la Garde." In the digital collection Early English Books Online. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/A58876.0001.001. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed October 31, 2024.

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The HISTORY of AVRELISA and TERENTIA.

I will not detain you, Madam, with telling you Aurelisa and Terentia are descended from very noble families, since you know it already; or that Theanor, Aemylius and Cereontus are persons of quality; for 'tis a thing you are not ignorant of. I shall omit to tell you that these five persons are indued with great merits, because you know them sufficiently to be so; neverthelesse, for that the Prince that hears me has not time to observe the humour of Aurelisa and Terentia, you must permit me to tell him that tho Terentia be brown and Aurelisa fair, one has black eyes, and the other blew, one be tall of stature and the other low, yet there is more difference in inclinations than in the out-side of their persons. Yet they have both very much wit; yea, they had for some time a considerable kindness for one another; but this has not hinder'd but that they have opposite sentiments, and in brief, can never a∣gree in any thing whatsoever, not even in such matters as are of least concernment. If they be onely to walk together, one of them will go in the shade, and the other sayes she do's not fear the Sun, and much affects those great open quarters in Gar∣dens which leave the sight free, and where the air is not confin'd. If one will have her Curtains drawn before her windows, the other maintains on the contrary that the clear day is advantageous to such as have a good complexion. In brief, they never had the same friends of either Sex in the very time they lov'd one another, and I may say I am the only exception to this general rule; 'Tis true, since 'tis a happiness I have to be oftentimes a friend to per∣sons who have no resemblance, and whose interests are many times contrary, this ought not to be won∣der'd at. But which is strange, these two persons, whose opinions are so different have yet so much reason that they never had any publick fallings out, and they have so well conceal'd their difference that I am almost the onely person that have had any knowledge of them. In the next place, Madam, you must know, that these two persons having both almost in the same time lost their Fathers and Mothers, they were plac'd under the Guardianship of a man of quality, call'd Tolumnius, whose wife was Aurelisa's Aunt. As for Terentia she was Cous∣in to Tolumnius, who had two Nephews, not Bro∣thers, to whom he intended to marry these two Virgins who have sufficient fortunes. In order to which, he educated them under his wife, whose name was Elinyssa, tho he conceal'd his determin∣ation; however, he so expresly commanded Aemyli∣us and Theanor, (who obey'd him as if he had been their Father) to insinuate themselves into the a∣ffection of these two persons, that they began to make Courtship to them, more out of obedience than choice, and consequently without Love towards them, or jealousie between themselves; for they had other things which affected their hearts. On the other side Aurelisa and Terentia having been adver∣tis'd by one of their relations, that they were to pre∣pare themselves to marry Aemylius and Theanor one day, lookt upon them as two men who in time might come to be their husbands. But as they could never love the same things, so they made different desires; for Terentia wish'd she might be lov'd by Aemylius, and

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Aurelisa that she might be so by Theanor. Never∣theless, these wishes were conceal'd from all the World, and they never spoke of them but when they were alone. Nor did they then think that they spoke very seriously. For my part (said Aurelisa one day) I shall never resolve to become wife to Aemilius: not but that I see he is a person of much honour, but he is not such as I would have a Lover or a Hus∣band: but the case is otherwise in relation to Thea∣nor. As for my particular (added Terentia) I can∣not think of marrying Theanor, tho he be a per∣son of worth; but for Aemilius, I could easily re∣solve to do it. What? (said Aurelisa) would you be the wife of such an inconstant person as Aemylius, who has had a hundred Mistresses in his life. I would not marry him inconstant, (answer'd Terentia) but I should like well e∣nough to cure him of his inconstancy, and should not be loth to marry him when I had render'd him faithful. But can you your self (added Terentia) resolve to love and to marry Theanor, who you know loves a certain woman ever since he came to the use of reason, who makes a profession of being the most constant person in the World, and yet when he has marri'd you, will not cease to love his former Mistress? No, no, Terentia, (repli'd Aurelisa) I do not understand it so; but, to speak freely, I should take as much pleasure to render Theanor unfaithful to her that he loves, as you would have, in rendring Aemilius constant. Our two wishes are very different (answer'd Te∣rentia) for I desire to remove a defect from Emyli∣us, and you would confer one on Theanor. In truth (repli'd Aurelisa) I think we do not yet very well know what we would have; but the best I see for us, is, that in all probabilities we shall never desire the same things, and so having different pretensi∣ons, we shall alwaies live in peace, tho our inclina∣tions be contrary. However from that day Aurelisa and Terentia found arising in their hearts a kind of particular esteem for those two men, which had scarce any other apparent cause than the desire of contradicting one another. For, because Aurelisa e∣steem'd Emylius less than Theanor, therefore Terentia lov'd Theanor less than Aemilius; and for the same reason, Aurelisa knowing Terentia preferr'd Aemilius before Theanor, she gave the preheminence to Thea∣nor to the prejudice of Aemilius. Nevertheless, they so well conceal'd their sentiments, that they were taken notice of by no person whatsoever. But whil'st they contested thus, Aemilius and Thea∣nor who were friends, and mutually communicated most part of their sentiments, beheld these two Vir∣gins as most men do those whom they think they ought to marry, that is with an affection without ardour, and little better than ordinary civility; nor did they so much as inquire how their Uncle intend∣ed their marriages should be made; for Aemilius having at that time three or four Mistresses, and Theanor one who absolutely took up his heart, they onely consider'd that they whom they were to mar∣ry would be rich, without troubling themselves fur∣ther, except that they told their Mistresses, A wise man ought to marry only for his familie's sake, and to love onely for his own. They endeavour'd also to perswade them, that a marriage was not a real in∣fidelity; and they were happy enough to be be∣liev'd; for the inconstant Aemilius lov'd none but Gossips, and the constant Theanor loving a woman which could not be his, he perswaded her the more easily to what he desir'd. Things being in this po∣sture, I contracted an intimate friendship with these two young Beauties, and I hapned one day to be at Elinyssa's house with whom they dwelt, when Theanor and Aemilius came thither with two Ladies of no discommendable beauty. So that this conversati∣on being wholly compos'd of young persons (for Elinyssa was gone out of it about some affairs) it suddenly became very agreeable and gallant. 'This hapned so much the more easily, for that one of the Ladies who came with Theanor and Aemilius, and whose name was Cleoncia, being much addicted to make sport with her best friends, and to do it sometimes a little too pressingly; cunningly brought it in, to speak of unfaithful and constant Love, intending to give some light gird to those that were with her. She ask'd the other Ladies what they would do if they were necessitated to chuse a husband of two men, whereof one had a hundred Mistresses, and the other but one, whom he loved ardently. For my part, said one of the La∣dies, I would have neither of both; for certainly 'tis no great pleasure to be wife to one of those pro∣fess'd Weather-Cocks, who because they converse with none but Gossips, slight their Wives, and every day do a hundred things very displeasing to be seen; and 'tis yet less to be Wife of a Man who every mo∣ment is ready to sacrifice all his family to the per∣son whom he loves, whose thoughts are wholly tak∣en up with her, who never stirs from her, who is weary of all other places, who is prodigal in what concerns his love, and covetous in all other respects, and who will not have any thing that he do's, seen; or when it is observ'd, will not allow it to be com∣plain'd of. And which is strange, both that hus∣band who lends out his heart to whomsoever will have it, and he that gives his intirely to one person, do nevertheless require their Wives should keep a more exact fidelity to them, than any others. But since I may be mistaken (added she) I would know Aurelisa's opinion upon this case. Terentia then lookt upon Aurelisa, calling to mind what they had talk't of together some daies before; whereupon, (per∣ceiving it was believed, she was going to declare her true sentiments, and consequently to deter∣mine, that she lik'd a Husband better that had one constant Love, than one that had many) on a sud∣den to have the pleasure of deceiving her friend, she disguis'd her sentiments, and took the contrary side, with intention to anticipate all that she de∣sir'd to say. For my part, (said she, smiling) I see no ground there is to doubt; for 'tis better, no questi∣on, to be Wife of an unconstant Husband, provid∣ed he carry his business discreetly, than to be a Wife to a constant Lover, who perplexes his Wife with continual capricious. For inconstant Lovers, are almost generally of a good humour, whereas, on the contrary, Lovers scrupulously faithful, are for the most part fullen natur'd. Terentia observing Au∣relisa's subtlety, could not restrain her self from con∣tradicting her, tho in reality she contradicted her self. There is some wit in what you say, (said Te∣rentia) but yet it is certain, that it were incompara∣bly better, to be the Wife of a man who has a great passion, than of one of those that are inconstant to a thousand Loves, of whom every day a hundred stories are told, which divert the whole Court, and perplex his Wife in all companies, since she can

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scarce go into any place without finding some Mi∣stress of her Husband's with whom she is at a loss how to comport her self: but it is not so with a Hus∣band that has but one Love; for provided you keep but some measure of civility to his Mistress, if he be ingenuous he will thank you for it, and if he does not love you, yet at least he will esteem you. While these two Virgins maintain'd the side they under∣took, which is sufficient weakness, because it did not agree with their real sentiments, Theanor and Ae∣milius, to whom this conversation was unpleasing, by reason of their being concern'd in it, believ'd that these two fair persons thought what they spoke, and thereupon Theanor was incens'd against Aurelisa, and Aemilius against Terentia. And either of them desiring to make good their side, produc'd all the reasons for it they couldinvent. For my part, (said Aemilius) I see not how the thing can be doubted; for I conceive no∣thing is more troublesome to a Wife, than one of those Husbands with a great passion, & nothing more convenient than one that is a Gallant. For he is scarce ever at home, some Feast alwaies takes him up; and, as he is unwilling to be constrain'd, so he gives the same liberty which he desires to take. On the contrary, a Husband of the other sort, is insupportable; for out of cross intention, that he may have something to blame in the deportment of his Wife, to the end that may excuse his own, he has continually his Spies to observe her. But however, (interrupt∣ed Theanor) the Husband you represent so, loves some person, and so his Wife has some ground to hope, if he can cease to love his Mistress, her self may at length get into his affection. But what can be hop'd from an inconstant person, who is never capable of loving any thing? If he do not love his Mistresses (said Aemilius) why should his Wife take it ill? But if the Husband who has a con∣stant Love, (answer'd Theanor) does not cease to use his Wife civilly, what reason has she to com∣plain? since you do not believe it necessary to her happiness, that she be lov'd. For my part, (said Aurelisa, contrary to her own sentiments again, be∣cause she had begun so) I am against Theanor: And I (added Terentia) against Aemilius. In my appre∣hension, (said I then) you are not against any bo∣dy; for to speak sincerely, you do not well know what you would do, if both of you had Husbands, which did not love you. It is not material for what reason you are not lov'd; since in what manner so∣ever the matter is, it is alwaies troublesome. How∣ever, whether you be lov'd or hated, you ought for Virtue's and your own sake, to be as faithful to a Husband that does not love you, as to one that does; for it is not fitting ever to revenge your selves to his prejudice; nor to offend by example. No doubt Terentia and Aurelisa thought the same thing that I spoke; for they are both very discreet; but they were in a manner not to agree to it, to the end they might have occasion to contest. Nevertheless, seemli∣liness restrain'd them, and so the conversation ended; after which, Theanor went away with a secret indignation against Aurelisa, and Aemilius against Terentia, tho in truth Aemilius was oblig'd to love Terentia, and Theanor Aurelisa. When they were return'd home, (for they lodg'd toge∣ther) they fell to speak concerning these two Ladies, and resolved between themselves, that if their Uncle should oblige them to marry them, Theanor should marry Terentia, and Aemilius Aureli∣sa. In the mean time, these two fair Virgins be∣ing retir'd, Terentia ask'd Aurelisa why she would not speak her mind really? 'Twas to hinder you from speaking yours, (answer'd she, smiling) for I conceiv'd you would not be of my opinion. But by obliging me not to speak what I thought, (reply'd Terentia) you did not speak your own thoughts, 'Tis true, (said she) but do not you know, that sometimes the mischief you do others, com∣pensates us for part of that we do ourselves? You may judge, Madam, by what I say, in what condition things then stood. But how weak soever this begin∣ning of aversion was which Aemilius had against Terentia, and Theanor against Aurelisa; and how slight soever an inclination Terentia had for Aemilius, and Aurelisa for Theanor, these first impressions were the true cause of all that have befallen them since. For Theanor after having had so long and constant affecti∣on in his Soul, was insensibly cur'd of that Love by another, and had a great dearness for Terentia, alwaies remembring the sentiments he had observ'd in her mind, at the time of that contest, at which I was pre∣sent. About the same time too, Aemilius being wea∣ry of the turmoil, occasion'd by the necessity of en∣tertaining several gallantries together, accustom'd himself to take more pleasure than usually in the company of Aurelisa; and thus these two friends by degrees became very amorous of the two fair Vir∣gins. But by a strange crossness of Fate, the first in∣clination of these two persons continuing, and be∣ing not alwaies able to restrain themselves from bearing envy one towards another, Terentia could not endure Theanor, and wisht so ardently Aemilius would love her in stead of him, that she seem'd to love him already. Aurelisa on the other side, accounting Ae∣milius insupportable, desir'd Theanor would please himself less with the company of Terentia, and more with hers. Not but that these four persons were every day together; but it is often seen, that tho persons be in the same place, their hearts are far distant from those in whose presence they are. However they all conceal'd their sentiments, and not know∣ing preciseely in what manner he on whom they de∣pended, would dispose of them, they expected till he declar'd his mind, every one of them desiring in their hearts, his pleasure might not check their re∣spective inclinations. But it was in a short time per∣ceiv'd, that some change hapned in the minds of Ae∣milius and Theanor; for the ancient Mistress of this latter, being possess'd with extreme jealousie, ut∣ter'd several expressions, which intimated that Thea∣nor could not but have an other Love. All the Mi∣stresses of Aemilius did the like, and within a very few daies it was generally talkt of, that Theanor was became unfaithful, and Aemilius constant. It was also added, that the cause of the constancy of one, and of the infidelity of the other, must needs be in E∣lynissa's house; but however, it could not be conje∣ctur'd, whether it were Aurelisa that Aemilius lov'd, or whether it were Terentia that had cur'd Theanor of his first passion: for these two Lovers not knowing the intention of their Uncle, durst not declare themselvs, and liv'd in partial civility towards these two Ladies, for whom they had notwithstanding very different sentiments, and by whom likewise they were lookt upon after a very different manner. I being then their intimate friend, inform'd them of the rumour that was reported concerning the constancy of Aemilius, and the unfaithfulness of Theanor, and ask't them for

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whose sake Theanor was become unfaithful, and Ae∣milius constant. For it is not doubted, (added I) but 'tis for the sake of you two, that these Lovers have chang'd inclinations. For my part, (answer'd Terentia suddenly, and blushing) I know not whether Theanor loves me, but I know well Aemilius does not. I am very well assur'd, (said Aurelisa,) Theanor is not faithful for my sake; and as for Aemilius, I care so little for knowing wherefore he ceas'd to be in∣constant, that I have not at all taken notice of it. Yet I wonder, (added Terentia) you have not ob∣serv'd, that he takes more pleasure in speaking to you, than to me. I assure you I have taken notice of it, (answer'd she), but I have observ'd upon di∣vers occasions, that Theanor uses all his address to a∣void discourse with me, and seeks to place himself near you, as often as he can, without doing me inci∣vility. If it be (so repli'd Terentia coldly) I have rea∣son to complain and pity my self, and I wish Aemili∣us be more happy than he. If he have any such in∣tention towards me as you speak of, (answer'd Au∣relisa) he will not be more happy than his friend nor I than you. In truth (said I to them then) I see not, however the business be, how either of you can be unhappy; for Theanor and Aemilius are both such deserving persons, that you cannot make a bad choice of either of them. They were going to an∣swer, but these two Lovers enter'd, who, to con∣firm what they had spoken of, handsomely sought to place themselves according to their inclinations. Aemilius approacht near to Aurelisa, and Theanor to Terentia, At which both of them blusht; which the Lovers observing, interpreted to their own ad∣vantage, (as persons, in their condition, use to take all occasions of flattering themselves) tho in truth it was to their prejudice. For Terentia blusht out of spight, to see that Aemilius prefer'd Aurelisa before her self, and Aurelisa out of anger, to observe that Theanor neglected her in respect of her friend. How∣ever, being both intelligent, they suppressed their sentiments, and the conversation was nevertheless sufficiently agreeable at the beginning. For com∣ming to speak of gallantry, the question was put, whether that love were greater that could not con∣tain from declaring her self, or that which was con∣ceal'd out of respect. Terentia being in a great fear lest Theanor should tell her he lov'd her, and more, lest Aemilius should declare his mind to Aurelisa, made haste to answer that there was no cause of doubt, and that there was more love in not telling that one loves, when respect alone causes the Lover's silence, than in going to tell it with precipitancy. Aurelisa now found her self a little perplext; for she lov'd not to be of Terentia's opinion, and was as un∣willing to take upon her to maintain, that it was fit to declare one's love, for fear of encouraging Aemili∣us to tell her something that might not please her. Therefore she chose rather to say nothing of her self, but asked me, What I thought of the case? For my part who had no interest in it, I spoke sincerely what I thought of the matter, and indeavour'd to main∣tain, that a Lover who could restrain himself from de∣claring that he lov'd, had a less passion than he who in spight of the respect he bore to his Mistress, and in spight of his own reason, was enforc'd to profess that he was in love. Aemilius was of my opinion, and Theanor intending his silence should be a declaration of his love to Terentia, maintain'd the contrary, and was of her opinion: So that this dispute lasted for a good time. For my part, (said I) I confess to you, I fear people who are not able to contain from say∣ing they love, have nothing in their hearts which torments them very much; and there is no surer token of a luke warm affection, than the long si∣lence of a Lover. For, is not complaint an infalli∣ble sign of great sorrowes? little diseases are easily past over in silence, but the wisest complain of such as are great, and all the Philosophy of the most insensible persons, can scarce ever keep from crying out when they suffer very much. So that as, no doubt, it cannot be prov'd that silence is a sign of great pain in the body, no more can it be made out to be an evidence of great grief of mind. But, do you make no difference (said Theanor) between a great love and a great pain? No, (answer'd I); for, besides that I am perswaded there is no love without inquietude, which is a kind of pain, I am so also, that a Lover who has not declar'd his passi∣on, has so vehement a desire to tell it, that he suffers one of the greatest torments in the world. You have reason, Amiclea (said Aemilius to me) and I can answer you, that for certain it is the greatest misery that can be imagin'd. 'Tis no doubt a great trouble (repli'd Theanor) but for that reason it is a great sign of love; for is there any thing more ob∣liging to a Lady, than to make her know, that the fear of displeasing her, and the respect you have for her, obliges you to be silent, and to suffer without complaining? and besides (added he) to speak equi∣tably, was a Lover ever believ'd upon his word? and if he does no more than say, I love you, would any Lady in the world believe him? And if so, the best way or course to prove one's love, is by a thousand cares, and a thousand services, sighs, glances, and a thousand other wayes more effectual than words, without offending a fair person, who will not have the respect due to her, lost. Believe me (said I then to Theanor) the sighes, glances, cares and services you speak of, may be compar'd to metal, (of which not long since money has been made at Rome) whose value is redoubled by the Prince's stamp. For all that is done for a fair person before a man discovers himself to be a Lover, is lookt upon but as testimonies of esteem and friendship at most, and, till after such declarations, she does not look upon the services render'd to her, as testimonies of love. What you say, is, no doubt, very well spoken (said I to him) but it must be added, that when people are forbid∣den to speak, 'tis taken for no great offence if they break that prohibition, in case they be esteem'd, and they knew how to do it handsomely. But, Ami∣clea (answer'd Terentia) I think you have lost your reason, in accusing women of such a defect as this; For, I conceive, a deserving person can never be more oblig'd than when she sees her displeasure is dreaded, and that she is fear'd and respected. 'Tis true (repli'd I) but if a Lover do not profess himself to be such, how will he ever be lov'd? I know not whether he will be lov'd or no (answer'd Terentia) but I know well, that a Lover who should tell me rudely that he lov'd me, should be hated. When Amiclea (repli'd Aemilius) maintains it fit for a lover to declare his passion, she does not mean he should do it after an unhandsome manner. As I was going to answer, the Lady which Theanor had lov'd so long, arriv'd with two others; her name was Menesile, and it is not to be doubted, but she is a very confident person, and passionate. This visit very

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much surpriz'd the company; for she did not use to visit Elynissa. But jealousie exciting a desire in her to see what pass'd in this cabal, she caus'd her self to be introduc'd by one of Tolumnius's friends. Ne∣vertheless Theanor the better to make known his love to Terentia, continu'd with her, tho he did not speak to her apart, for should he have desir'd it, she would not have given him occasion. When Aure∣lisa beheld this Lady enter, she well understood that a sentiment of jealousie induc'd her to make this vi∣sit; so that perceiving she still lov'd Theanor, this redoubled the inclination she had for him, as well as the envy she bore to Terentia; for she was extremely sorry that she was not the person to whom he prov'd unfaithful. A quarter of an hour after, three of Ae∣milius's ancient Mistresses arriv'd; but he saluted them so coldly, and lookt upon them so little, that it could scarce be thought he had ever seen them be∣fore. Whereupon Terentia observing that this un∣faithful person was become constant, was extream∣ly perplexed it was not for her sake that he despis'd all his former Mistresses. And so she became as me∣lancholick as Aurelisa. However, civility obliging them to entertain those that came to visit them, they fell to discourse of several things; after which the conversation being chang'd on a sudden, they inveighed very much against men in general. It was affirm'd that they were very frequently unjust, vindicative, inconstant, insensible, and given to de∣traction. Theanor and Aemilius then maintain'd the cause of their own sex, defended themselves the best they could. But at length, I know not how it came to pass, but one of the new-come Ladies, who did not love Menesile, askt me if I believ'd that a woman whom a man ceas'd to love, ought to be more offend∣ed than another, who could not gain the affection of a man she lov'd. This proposition made Menesile, Te∣rentia, and Aurelisa blush, which nevertheless was ob∣serv'd only by my self. Menesile recollecting her self in a moment, had confidence enough to make good her own cause. 'Tis so easie to answer to what you de∣mand (said she) that tho many persons be present here, who have more wit than my self, I think I shall have enough to convince you, that 'tis greater shame not to be able to makes one's self be lov'd, than to be abandon'd. For the shame reflects upon the desertor, and not on her that is forsaken. I know not whose the shame is (repli'd I) but I believe the anger is on her side that is relinquisht, if she persists to love. I believe (said Menesile) the cause of the anger is for having been deceiv'd; but however, a person that cannot make her self be lov'd, is not only angry, but ashamed of her own weakness: and whereas a woman that has been lov'd, and is so no longer, is possessed onely with despight, hatred, and contempt of her Renegade; she that loves without being lov'd, comes at length, when she has any heart, to hate and despise her self; which, no doubt is the cruellest thing in the world. While Menesile was speaking thus, Terentia, Aurelisa, and Theanor, were extremely perplext, being inforc'd to hear an un∣pleasing discourse, without answering to it. I ob∣serving their trouble (answer'd Menesile) and desiring to make a third party, In truth (said I to her) whe∣ther a woman loves without being lov'd, or whe∣ther her Lover forsakes her, she is worthy of pity if she be vertuous; for as for such as are not, they ought never to be pitied. But I would know fur∣ther (said she who made this proposition) who suffers most of the two. She that loves most (an∣swer'd Terentia). That is likely (repli'd a Lady of the company) to be the forsaken Lady; for I cannot understand that he that is not lov'd, can love very ardently. For my part (said another) I do not con∣ceive a woman can love, if her affection be not an∣swer'd when she gives some Testimony of it; but I do not believe it impossible but a vertuous person may have a secret and hidden inclination which may lead her to love rather one man than another; tho without testifying any thing of it. If it be so (answer'd Menesile) I believe really she that is forsa∣ken suffers more than she that is not lov'd; but if she believes that her eyes have betray'd the secret of her heart, and that he that she loves understands her affection without answering to it, I conceive she undergoes the torment of a shame of greater pain to her, than the blackest infidelity can cause. For in this case the remedy is at hand by scorning him from whom the injury is receiv'd. Whil'st Menesile was speaking thus, Aemilius talk't low to Aurelisa, who at that in∣stant lik't rather to hear him, than to be oblig'd to answer Menesile. You are very melancholick to day, Madam, (said he to her) altho I do not complain of your silence; for it being a kind of consent, I presume you agree that Amilcar had reason to say: There is greater love in not being able to contain from dis∣covering that passion, than in being silent out of respect; and therefore to avoid giving you leisure to change your sentiments, it is best for me to tell you in the most respectful manner possible, that of the most inconstant of all men you will make the most faithful Lover in the World, provided you will please to fasten the Knots which tye me to your ser∣vice. I beseech you, Aemilius, (answer'd Aurelisa much astonish'd) do not force me to speak more rude∣ly to you than I would: you know I have respect for Tolumnius, and that I should be extream sorry to dis∣please him. However if you accustome your self to speak to me as you do, it shall be hard but I will find out wayes to deliver me from your importunity. Au∣relisa spoke this with a certain severe aspect, which sensibly afflicted Aemilius; but in stead of being re∣pell'd by it, he became more amorous; for he was one of those to whom the difficulties of things encreases the desire of possessing them. Wherefore he spoke a∣gain to Aurelisa to the same purpose, but so respect∣fully, that she had no pretext to be offended with him. On the other side Theanor observing all Menesile's dis∣course was only to despight him, design'd to take ad∣vantage of her anger: so that when all the company was gone, he continu'd last, and approaching to Teren∣tia who was musing by a window, If you remember, Madam (said he to her with a low voice) all that you have heard spoken indirectly against me, remember also at the same time, that I have suffer'd it for your sake; and that if I had not an infinite respect for you, I should tell you, that did I not love you, I should not be unfaithful. I assure you (answer'd she) I will alwaies remember the quality you give your self, to the end I may not be endanger'd to love you more than I do; for in brief a man that can forsake one woman for ano∣ther when he is lov'd by her, may prove unfaithful to all that shall put confidence in him. After this, going aside to Aurelisa, Theanor was constrain'd to go away without saying more to her. The rest of the even∣ing Terentia and Aurelisa were sufficiently melancho∣lick, they undrest themselves almost without speak∣ing to one another, tho they lay in the same Chamber,

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and it was not till the next morning that they spoke any thing. When, after they were drest, according to their custome, they went into a little Closet not far from their Chamber, expecting the hour to go to the Temple. As soon as they were there, Aurelisa (who naturally was more debonair than Terentia) ask't her with a something forc'd smile, whence it came to pass she was so pensive that day; For (said she) they ought not to be melancholick who have gain'd a vi∣ctory. You ought then to be more frolick than you are (answer'd Terentia) for you have triumph'd more gloriously than I. If you will change your victory (reply'd Aurelisa) I am content. I assure you, it shall not be my fault (answer'd Terentia): not that I absolutely agree to what I perceive you think; but I answer to your words rather than to the truth of the business you set upon me for. But I shall alwaies draw this advantage from what you have said, that I see Aemilius has mention'd his love to you, and I did not convince him yesterday. I acknowledge it (repli'd Aurelisa, knowing it would afflict Terentia): but now confess to me whether Theanor did not make you know he loves you; and that as I have made a faithful Lover of an unconstant one, you have made a man unfaithful who was reputed the most constant in the World. Your sincerity requiring the like from me (answer'd Terentia) I confess to you, Thea∣nor made me understand he loves me. Ah! Teren∣tia (said Aurelisa) why have you not made Aemilius your Lover? Ah! Aurelisa (say'd Terentia) where∣fore have you not gain'd the heart of Theanor, which I know not what to do with? The misery is (added she) that I perceive 'tis Tolumnius's absolute pleasure we should marry his Nephews; and that, according as your heart and mine are dispos'd, we shall be alwaies unhappy. For I tell you again, I shall never be able to live with Aemilius, tho he is a person of merit. I say the same of Theanor (an∣swer'd Terentia). After this, the like unhappiness u∣niting the hearts of these two Virgins, they promis'd much friendship and fidelity one to another. But, in order to seek some remedy to their hard fortunes, Terentia promis'd Aurelisa alwaies to treat Theanor ill, and never to marry him, what command soever To∣lumnius should lay upon her to that purpose, whom she obeyed as her own father. And Aurelisa like∣wise promis'd on her part, never to speak any thing favourable to Aemilius, nor marry him, whatever command should be lay'd upon her to it; they pro∣mis'd also to relate sincerely all that those two Lov∣ers should say to them. But alass! (said Terentia) all our providence will perhaps be unprofitable to hinder us from being unhappy; for it is in our pow∣er not to marry those we do not love, but if it should be propounded to us to marry those we do not hate, perhaps we shall not be able to refuse them, tho they do not love us; and 'tis possible Theanor and Aemi∣lius will have the weakness to obey Tolumnius out of a regard to their interest. However, I confess to you, I should think my self as unhappy to marry a man who should not love me, and I should affect, as to marry one whom I had no affection for, and lov'd me. You have reason (answer'd Aurelisa). But since hope is not to be dis∣claim'd to the last, we ought to hope that being united as we are at present, it may fall out that we may change our destiny; Aemilius may come to love you, and Theanor not to hate me. After this they made a thousand caresses to one another, and express'd a thousand blandishments. At the end of this conversation they went to the Temple, where their two Lovers were, who confirm'd by their looks what they had spoken the day before. At their return from the Temple, they were told, one of her Friends, delited they would go in the even∣ing into the Gardens of the Palace, whither, as you know, Madam, the whole Court resorts very fre∣quently in fair weather. Accordingly they went thither with a Kinswoman of theirs, imagining their Friend would take the pleasure to walk with them; but they found it was to hear musick-enter∣tainment which Theanor and Aemilius had prepar'd for them, and that she in whose name they were requested to come, knew nothing of this gallan∣try; which, instead of exciting joy in them for whom it was intended, afforded them but regret and discontent. Some daies after, these Lovers gave a magnificent Collation to the same per∣sons, in that delightful Grove which is call'd the Grove of the Spring, because the verdure appears there sooner than any other where, and all the World resorts to walk there in that season: and to make their love more taken notice of, one evening they gave a Ball under a magnificent Tent in the middle of that Meadow, which is call'd the Meadow of Flora, because indeed it is alwaies cover'd over with flowers. Terentia and Aurelisa were at a des∣perate loss with these contrivances of their two Lovers to please them; but yet it behov'd to be pre∣sent at all their entertainments for fear of displeas∣ing Tolumnius and Elinyssa. Not long after, they were joyful to understand that Tolumnius had resolv'd to go and spend some time in the Countrey at a ve∣ry fair house of his near Clusium. They understood also that I was to be of the company; and according∣ly I departed two daies after with them; upon which occasion, as friendship is more speedily contracted during a little journey into the Countrey than in the City, they were pleas'd to make me privy to the fear they were in, lest Tolumnius should determine to marry them after a manner contrary to their own inclinations; and, in brief, they told me all the principal secrets they had in their breasts. I con∣fess to you they caus'd me to pity them, and finding an occasion to intermeddle with love in∣nocently, I promis'd to do all I could to change the hearts of their two Lovers, who were both my familiar friends. During our Countrey-journey, there was nothing but continual feasting; but these two Virgins desiring me not to desert them at all, that so their Lovers might not have the liberty to speak to them apart, I did it indeed so handsomely, without Aemilius and Theanor's ever suspecting my design to hinder them from discoursing to them, that they could not say any thing to them concerning their passion. I did not con∣tent my self with doing this office to these two Virgins, I spoke severally to both their Lovers, in order to perswade them into sentiments con∣trary to their own. For speaking to Aemilius I extol'd Terentia with exaggeration, and did the like for Aurelisa speaking to Theanor. But, to speak truth, I did not observe they commend∣ed them with the same ardour. On the contra∣ry when I spoke of Aurelisa to Theanor he spoke to me of Terentia; and as soon as I nam'd Teren∣tia to Aemilius, he mention'd Aurelisa to me. In the mean time these two Lovers were so solicitous to

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get themselves lov'd, that they did not perceive they were lov'd by those whom they did not affect. 'Tis true, Terentia and Aurelisa being both discreet and vertuous, they conceal'd their sentiments the best they could, and did not cease to seem pleasant, to be sociable, and shew an equal civility to those for whom they had very differing sentiments. That which render'd them the more unhappy, was, that tho Theanor were in love with Terentia, yet he did not cease to live much in favour with Aurelisa; and tho Aemylius lov'd Aurelisa, yet he was much complacential towards Terentia. Now it falling out that these two Lovers had Affairs at Court, they made but little journeys on a day. They made very urgent requests to Aurelisa and Terentia that they would permit them to write to them, but they would not grant it. Yet I, who lov'd news well when I was in the Countrey, desir'd one of my friends who was one of theirs too, to send me not only what he knew at Clusium, but likewise all intelligence he should receive from any other place, for he was one that had correspondence through∣out all Italy. Not that I car'd much what pass'd in places where I knew no person, but Tolumnius loving to know all that was acted all the World over, I was willing to divert him during my residing at his house. And accordingly, that Friend of mine several times sent me very ample relations of all that pass'd at Court, with the extracts of Letters which he receiv'd from Rome, Veii, Tarentum, Cuma, Vol∣aterra, Panormus, Capua, and divers other places. So that this affording divertisement to Tolumnius, and the news of the World giving sufficient pleasure to Terentia, Aurelisa, and my self, we awaited with much impatience the day that we were to receive Letters. One night we went to walk, expecting their arrival, and thinking to have them a moment sooner. And as we were between two Meadows border'd about with Willows, we saw him arrive who was wont to bring my Packets, and who now deliver'd me several. Amongst the rest, I beheld one which I did not know, so that the desire of knowing who writ it, caus'd me to open it first; which done, I found it was a relation divided into distinct Ar∣ticles like those I was wont to receive, tho I did not know the Character of it. Terentia and Aurelisa observing my astonishment, approch't toward me; and all three of us sitting down at the foot of a Tree, I began to read the relation which was in e∣ffect the same I am going to repeat to you; for I know I shall not alter the sense; however, I may something change the words.

Of the Court.

Persons envious, discontented, and ungratefull are al∣wayes to be found here; they to whom any thing is given, believe they deserve more; they to whom nothing is given, think that rob'd from them which is given to others; in the mean time all the World is oftentimes in a burly burly without knowing wherefore. There are found there ambi∣tions persons without merit, flatterers ill rewarded, false friends resembling true, an out side of goodnesse which charms new-comers, and yet do's not deceive them who have experience; in brief, imposture and fraud is seen every where, and handsome deportment without honesty. As for love, there is little can be call'd so; altho sometimes certain frivolous loves are to be seen there, which are fit only for young idle persons that know not what to do, and many times too know not what to say. Loves of in∣terests are seen there likewise, which inspire onely unwor∣thy actions, and there is scarce ever any sincere love to be found unlesse it be in the breasts of Theanor and Aemylius, whose hearts they say are in the Countrey, tho their persons are seen every day at the Queen's Palace, where thy appear so melancholy that all the Ladies com∣plain of them.

Of CLUSIUM.

All the envious Fair ones rejoice here, for the absence of the two fairest persons in the World; yet they do not draw much advantage by it: for all worthy persons are so afflicted with it, that all their conversations are turn'd into sadnesse. There are some who affirm two of their Loves are in danger to die of sorrow if they do not spee∣dily return, tho it be not the custom to die for the ab∣sence of a rigorous Mistresse; Otherwise, Clusium is as it is wont to be, that is, the powerful oppresse the weak, every one seeks that which pleases him, those which govern are repin'd at, projects and designs are contriv'd to no end, little true vertue is to be found there, but much hypocrisie, disorderly magnificence, excessive avarice, in∣justice, irregularity and confusion.

Of the Gardens of the Palace.

All the Ladies who were wont to pull down their Veils, when they fear'd lest their beauty should be con∣strain'd to yield to that of Terentia and Aurelisa, walk with open countenances during their absence; but for that the image of those two fair persons remains in the hearts of all those who have judicious eyes in relations to beauty, they have never the more admirers, and the remembrance of those who are no more seen there, still prejudices the glory of those that are.

On the Grove of the Spring.

Tho all the Trees be here as green as usual, yet there is much lesse company than was wont; not but that there are still a hundered thousand Birds which make the most delightfull melody that can be heard; but the rea∣son, no doubt, is, for that the crowd of honorable persons who came to walk here the last year, came not so much to hear the Nightingals sing as to behold the two fairest persons of the Earth, who were seen there al∣most every day. Now, instead of them, two melancholick Lovers are seen very frequently-there, who came to sigh in the most solitary places of the Grove. Sometimes they loose themselves in it, their grief so possesses them; and there are some also who assure they have made very amorous Verses which have been found carv'd upon the Trees, by which it appears that one of them loves a handsom fair woman, and the other a beautiful brown, However, this Wood appears so solitary, that there is cause to believe there will be no more resorting to it, if those two fair ones who are absent do not speedily return.

On the Ball, upon the evening of Juno's Festivall.

All sorts of people are seen here; some dance well, o∣thers ill, and many others do not dance at all. There are seen also several Ladies who ought not to dance more, be∣cause 'tis too long agoe since they begun to dance. There are young people too, who begin to see the World by the Fall, and are so out of countenance, that they cannot dance ac∣cording to the right cadence. Here are also knots and

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factions, tho the design oftentimes is onely to dance ill. But, what is most resented, is, that the fairest ornament of the Assemblies at Clusium is no longer seen here, name∣ly Terentia and Aurelisa. And 'tis for the same reason, that Theanor and Aemilius are not seen here, who like bet∣ter to be in solitude by themselves than to be seen at the Ball, where they cannot see the only persons that can please them.

On the Medow of Flora.

All the World is much amaz'd, not to see any lon∣ger here that abundance of Flowers which were wont to be seen every year. Indeed, they say the West-winds, which serve to maintain the freshnesse of Flowers, have follow'd those two fair ones that love them, and that this is the cause the Medow has almost no Flowers this year. They speak of sending to request them to return, but very many beau∣ties oppose it, because they like better the Medow should be without Flowers, than to see the admirable complexion of Aurelisa and Terentia outshine the lustre of their own.

On the Temple of Venus.

A great sacrifice is preparing here for two unfortunate Lovers, who cannot be lov'd by their Mistresses, tho they have the most ardent and faithful passion in their breasts that ever was. There are some believe, that if they do not resolve to reward their fidelity, the Goddesse they adore will revenge their deaths after a strange manner; for 'tis the custom of this Goddesse, when she is offended with Ladies rebellions against the Laws of her son, to take a∣way their beauty immaturely, or cause them to love with∣out being lov'd. Therefore 'tis to be wish'd, those two fair persons would reward their Lovers for being so faithful. If they do so, they shall be happy in the highest degree, no∣thing being more sweet than to love and be lov'd, nor no∣thing so miserable as not to love at all.

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