Theophania, or, Severall modern histories represented by way of romance and politickly discours'd upon / by an English person of quality.

THEOPHANIA.

BOOK V.

Continuation of the Story of HERACLIUS and CENODOXIUS.

MOst excellent Prince, Impartiality is one of the greatest vertues required in those who are born to Soveraignty, and you abun∣dantly testifie how worthy you are of such a birth, by permitting so great a licence to my speech, in which otherwise, through fear of offence, I should have forborn to touch upon divers passages which will not be unworthy of your knowledge.

But emboldened by so gracious an invitation, I shall conceal nothing that is material to the present subject, nor leave your curiosity unsatisfied in those particulars, which hitherto have been the secrets of our unfortunate Family; therefore without interruption to continue.

No sooner had Heraclius retired to his Cabinet, which for the greater privacy, was in one of the highest Towers of the Castle, which had a fair prospect upon a large Plain that ex∣tended

it self many Leagues upon the Sea-side, but opening one of the Casements he addressed his prayers to heaven to direct him in his resolutions; when suddenly his meditations were interrupted with an unusual spectacle, which at a remote distance presented it self to his view in the adjacent Plain.

He immagined he saw a great white cloud advance leasurely forward upon the earth, and as it moved ascending into the air, seemed to be insensibly dissipated by the brightness of the Sun, which by reason of a clear serene skie, caused in him no little ad∣miration, but approaching within distance to be discerned, his wonder was not at all abated, when he perceived a solemn pro∣cession of Matrons and Virgins, cloathed all in white, bare∣footed, some bearing white Tapers in their hands, and others with Censors casting Incense into the air.

Whereupon immediately descending, he called his chiefest friends to him, and placing a strong guard upon the Gate, for fear of some intended stratagem by the enemy, himself ac∣companied only with those that were of his secret Councel is∣sued forth to attend the success of this adventure, giving a strict command, that whatever happened there should be no farther motion in the City but by express order, and by that time they had advanced some few paces from the Castle, the Procession was almost ready to encounter them, when it im∣mediately made a stand, Heraclius and his attendants doing the same, exceedingly admiring the order of their proceeding.

But I doubt once more, said Cenodoxius, you will think me teadious in the relation of this seeming Pageant••y; No, re∣ply'd Alexandro, and again I both entreat, and enjoyn you, not to omit any circumstance to make up the full narration of your story especially in this particular, for it promiseth to be both delightfull, and of consequence in the conclusion. Your Highness judgeth rightly, answered Cenodoxius, therefore I will under pardon describe to you the whole manner of their solemnity.

Th•• Leader of this reverend Band, was a modest elderly Matron clothed in a loose garment of course Canvas, with a vail

upon her head of the same; she was bare-footed, and carried in her hand a Spear, to the point whereof was fastened a Ban∣ner, having painted on it in lively colours, a Peacock with his train spread, being the bird of Juno, the Goddess whom that people superstitiously adore as their Protectrix, After whom followed in pairs a hundred and fifty women more, about the same age, and in the same habit, their eyes devoutly fixed on the earth, each one bearing in her hand a burning Taper; and after them a very aged Mat••on supported by two others, herself in the same kind of habit, but flowing more loosly, and some other little distinctions, which shewed her to be the Superior, or Go∣verness of that society.

The next was a woman of middle years, who bore likewise in her hand a Banner, wherein was represented Juno sitting up∣on a cloud, and divers people of all conditions praying to her; she was followed by two hundred more in the same manner, carrying lighted Tapers, and bare footed, but their habit diffe∣ring from the former, for their under-garment, the border whereof only appeared, was black over which they wore a white vest or fine linnen girt close to them with a silken cord, and their Matron had on her head a larger vail then the rest, training upon the ground, with a long silver staff in her hand, on the top whereof was an Imperial Crown.

The third Banner was richly embroidered with the figures of Jupiter and Juno sitting together in their Majestie, and the troop that followed were young women, none above thirty, their heads adorned with curious Coronets made of Peacocks feathers; their under garments were of Purple, their upper vests of pure Lawn pleated, and fringed with silver, being girt to them with a silver girdle, over which they wore mantles of cloth of silver training upon the ground; their Matron bore in her right hand a mass of gold set with precious stones, on the top whereof was a small figure of Juno cut out of one entire Emerald; she had divers attendants about her, and her mantle was born up by one of the same order; but herself as well as her company, had sandals upon their feet of Crimson Velvet, with laces of silver.

After them marched another banner, which by reason of the greatness, was born up by twelve young maids, in which Jupi∣ter sate enthroned with his threefold Scepter, Juno kneeling on a cloud before him, and on the earth a King in his Royal Robes offering up his Crown, with divers people behind him in a de∣vout posture, who by the intercession of that great Queen of heaven, seemed to be recommended to the protection of the Thunderer.

Those that followed were maids of admirable beauty, their hair hanging loose, and on their heads Chaplets of flowres; their under garment was of crimson, short before, but very long behind, covered with another of lawne girt close to them, with wide sleeves hanging to their feet, and over that a kind of jacket of silver net close to their bodies, and streight short sleeves as far as the elbow, but a loose skirt cut in panes like scallops, which reached to their knees.

These as the others bore tapers in their hands, but sung in a most mournfull tune, yet with a harmony that seemed ce∣lestial.

Then followed two hundred maids more, four in a rank, lit∣tle differing in habit from the others, with silver Censors, which smoaking with rich perfumes, they tossed in the air as they marched.

The next in order were fifty young women playing upon Ivory Harps, with strings of silver wier, being clad in a close garment of black, over which they wore a short vest of lawn curiously wrought about the skirts, and in every seam with needle work, which reached only to their knees; after whom followed fifty more in the same habit, that played upon several other Instruments, all together making a most excellent con∣sort, which infusing a kind of sorrowfulness into the heart, rai∣sed the soul into a divine contemplation; yet in contemplating the celestial quires, no humane fancy could frame a more per∣fect image of them then what was there represented to the fight.

Then came a hundred yong Virgins, none above twelve yeers

of age, in long garments of cloth of silver, with wide sleeves, bearing in their hands Olive branches, who likewise in sad notes sang the praises of their Goddes; after whom came a Damsel cloathed in black, on her head a battered Coronet, and in her right hand a broken Scepter.

Then followed a Lady of a Majestical presence, her hair slow∣ing upon her shoulders, on her head a Garland of Olive mixed with Roses; her Garment which was close to her body with wide sleeves, and a long train; was made of little plates of sil∣ver artificially joyned together like the small scales of fish, over which she wore a Mantle embroidered with pearl, in the An∣ticque fashion fastened on one shoulder with a large Diamond of great value: Her train was born up by six Virgins of the most eminent quality, besides divers others which attended her; but her self with her eys, and hands held up to Heaven, seemed unmindful of all earthly glory.

Immediately after, under a Canopy embroidered with a Sun, whose glistering rays cast a glorious light, supported with twelve staves of Gold, which were born up by twelve Virgins richly habted, followed the Image of Juno all of massie Gold, with a Crown upon her head, enchassed with Precious-Stones of an inestimable value, in her right hand a Scepter, in the other a heart of one entire Rubie hanging at a small chain of Gold, and about her neck, wrists, and waste, great ropes of Oriental Pearl, besides divers other Ornaments, as Tablets of Diamonds, Sa∣phirs, and Emeralds, which altogether made a vast treasure, and testifyed with the greatness, and liberality, the devotion of the doners; but because of the sadness of the occasion, all this glo∣ry was shaded over with a vail of thin black Tiffany, which co∣vered her from the head to the feet.

Twenty Virgins carryed the Goddess upon their shoulders, fifty more carryed great white Tapors lighted, and two hun∣dred with golden Censors raised a cloud of perfume that en∣compassed her: after which followed promiscuously a great number of women, by their sad countenances, and the motion of their lips seeming to implore the ayd of their Protectrix a∣gainst some common calamity.

But as soon as they perceived a company of men to encoun∣ter them on a suddain they all made a stand, and dividing them∣selves into two ranks, made a long lane; so that Heraclius had a full view of Juno••s Image, and of the incomparable Lady, who stood in a devout posture before the shrine, when immediately he perceived the damsel cloathed in black, advance towards him, and being come within convenient distance, she asked whether the General Heraclius was present amongst them; who stepping forward said, Beautiful maid, I•• to him you have ought to de∣liver, he stands here read to Answer your demands; when fal∣ling upon her knees with tears in her eys she thus began.

Most redoubted Lord, my doleful Lady, the no less vertu∣ous, then beautiful Agnesia, sole heir to the great Conar, the last surviver of our unfortunate Princes, whom now in a hostile manner you persecute, by me, who bear these ensignes of an op∣pressed Royalty, surrenders her self, and this dejected company, who are willing to follow her fortune, into your protection, humbly desiring she may be admitted into your presence; which reasonable request she supposeth you will not deny to a Lady of her birth, though the daughter of an enemy, and by the power of your Arms now reduced into a most deplorable condition. When raising her up he replyed.

Ill were the power of my Arms employed, and I should e∣steem that victory a scandal to my honor, by which either Beau∣ty, or Vertue, were oppressed, and if your Lady accompanyed with those Graces seek here for protection, she may not onely command my presence, but you may likewise give her assurance, that even my life is devoted to her service.

Whereupon the Damsel making a low reverence, without any reply hasted back to her Lady; who as soon as she had re∣ceived this joyful message, turning about, and prostrating her self before the Goddess, after a short Orison for a happy success to her undertaking, with a modest pace, attended only by the same damsel, and some principal young Virgins, moved towards Heraclius, who h••sting to meet her, as soon as they had a distinct view of each others perfections, they both were sensible of un∣expected passions.

Heraclius spirits retiring to his heart, he looked pale, and felt a trembling in his flesh; but Agnesia's blood starting into her face, made her cheeks sensible of that flame which was on a suddain kindled in her heart.

Then Heraclius blushing that he had appeared so unmanly, and Agnesia trembling through an apprehension that she had be∣trayed too much of woman, by the often changing of their co∣lour, they discovered the secret agitations of their minds, yet both were so amazed that neither perceived the others alterati∣on; but Heraclius first recovering out of his trance, offered humbly to kiss her hand, which she by no means permitting thus addressed her speech to him.

Noble Heraclius the Ceremonious respect you are pleased to shew to me, as to a woman, I wish rather may be converted to a real compassion of these my compassions, and my suffe∣rings.

That I am the daughter of the unfortunate Conar, you are not ignorant, but I retain an honour above that my virgin puri∣ty: These you see are likewise professed votaries to chastity, and those that follow after us the chaste wives and matrons of the neighbouring City, all devout reverencers of that sacred fi∣gure of the Celestial Juno, which we hold in the greater vene∣ration, because it was not formed by the art or industry of man, but he who had undertaken the work, finding his fancy inca∣pable to comprehend such an excellence as might represent the perfections of that great Queen of the Universe, devoutly in∣voking the assistance of the Gods to aid him in his endeavours, was instantly surprised with a heavy slumber, and waking, found the Image formed in that heavenly shape, which as a present from the Divine Powers, being forthwith transferred into a sumptuous Temple, by the piety of our Ancesters, prepared for it, the place hath ever since been especially honoured by the presence of the Goddess, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 h••th convincingly appeared by the effectual operation of 〈…〉〈…〉 miracles, nor was that the least, of which we 〈…〉〈…〉 witnesses, when the Goddess, 〈…〉〈…〉 of these our present

calamities, this her sacred Image was seen many days together continually to weep.

But perhaps I recount these supernatural effects to persons incredulous of such divine mysteries; however our wretched∣ness is so obvious to every sense, as cannot but gain a credit in the relation, and may beget a compassion in the most barbarous enemy, much more in the generous breast of so noble a Con∣querer.

For it so happened immediately after the late encounter, wherein the chiefest of our youth signalized the nobleness of their courage with their blood, that our troops disheartned with their fall, being at length forced to a shamefull flight, the runaways to palliat the ignominy of their cowardise, made such a terrible relation of the invincible valour of the Sicilians to the rest of the Army, that of twenty thousand men, who lay encamped without the City, in less then an hours space, being overcome by their own fears, not any remained for the defence thereof, except some few of the principal Commanders, who, notwithstanding all their endeavours, finding themselves so a∣bandoned by their souldiers, hasted to the Palace to advertise their Prince of his peoples disloyalty.

Whereupon his Highness immediately taking horse, with an intent, if it were possible, either by perswasions or threats, to bring them back again to the defence of their Country, this sad disaster was so quickly bruited among the inhabitants, that perceiving the soldiers precipitate flight▪ and beleiving their Prince had likewise forsaken them, being struck with a pannick feare, all the men, both old and young, that were able so to se∣cure themselvs, and even the Preists, who by hollowed vows, are obliged to attend at the Altars, ran headlong out of the gates, to lu••k for safety in the adjacen•• Woods, and Mountains.

The Mothers tears, the VVifes embraces, the lamentable cryes of tender infants, nor the reverence due to the supreme Powers, could not fortifie them with a resolution, rather to dye manfully in the discharge of those natural, pious Obligations, then most unnaturally, and impiously, in seeking refuge amongst

beasts to relinquish the protection of the Gods.

In this confusion, ignorant of what had passed, I returned from the Temple, accompanyed onely with a small traine of Ladies, when I found the streets filled with multitudes of wo∣men running distractedly up and down; some weeping over their children, some tearing their hair, and wringing their hands, and others though more patient in their griefs, ready to expire with the anguish thereof, but all irresolute, whether they should by laying violent hands upon themselves, and their Infants, put a period to their miseries, or else by following their fugitive friends, perish with them by a languishing death.

Thus whilst some exclaimed against the unkindness of their dearest Allies, others reproached the vild timerousness of the Prince and Souldiers, and all in general bewailed the cruelty of their own destiny, at length understanding perfectly the cause of their lamentations, being inspired by the Goddess, I ascended a high Tribunal in the chief place where on certain days the Magi∣strate gives publike audience to the people, whether they al pre∣sently flockt about me, and having with much difficulty obtained hearing, after some few arguments to excuse my fathers so ha∣sty leaving the City, having assured them if they would follow my example, either to lead them on by a glorious fal to terminate their sufferings, or else to restore them to their former happiness▪ with these promises, together with the respect and affection that they bore to me as their natural Princess, they were per∣swaded to return quietly to their houses, and with patience three days onely to expect the return of our Prince, our kinsmen and Allies; which being expired, and having not heard the least news what is become of them, now truly disdaining either the Empire, or Society of such pusilla••mous men, with a general consent we submit our selves as Vassals to that power, the onely report whereof hath already vanquished our Armies: Yet with these conditions, That our Chastities may be preserved invio∣late; The holy residences of these Votaries remain protected from the rapine of your souldiers; and the sacred Temple of

our Goddess not be prophaned, or polluted by the irreligious contemners of her Deity: Otherwise rather then to suffer our own dishonor, or to be the wretched spectators of any impious violence which may be offered to that Heavenly Image, in contempt of your power we come thus prepared both to prevent your tyranny, and by a voluntary Martyrdom to ap∣pease the anger of the incensed Gods.

When on a suddain, and at the same instant both her self, and all the rest drawing out of their sleeves short poignards, the points whereof they directed against their own breasts, pawsing a little, in that fatal posture, they expected the answer of Heraclins.

But he without any demur falling presently on his knees, and laying one hand on Agnesias poignard, besought her, that if from him she apprehended any violation of her honor, that she would rather by his death secure her fears, then through a diffidence of the Conquest her Vertue had made leave his memory infamous to posterity.

When raising himself up, and having a while considered such a multitude of Beauties, and in Agnesias person the amassed perfections of the whole multitude; You have conquered, said he, most excellent Lady; The Invaders of your Country, will henceforth become the Champions of your Li∣berty, and either Theodora shall by remitting the punishment of this late revolt confirm to your Nation their ancient priviledges, or I will my self armed in your defence undertake the protection of your cause.

Return therefore triumphant to the City with your holy Band, and recall thither your Prince, your Husbands, and your friends, and despise not their society, who by the chance of warr being subdued, and through a fear in such occurrences incident to humane nature flying the supposed fury of a Conqueror, have lost nothing of their own honor, and given such a glorious occasion to the whole world to celebrate the fame of your Heroick vertues; which will spread so far, that as the Amazonian Queen to raise an issue worthy of her self ••ncited by the report of his matchless Valour, through many Regions, sought the embraces

of the renowned Alexander, so the remotest Monarchs of the earth, hearing the relation of this noble enterprise, will conten∣dingly submit their Crowns to these Virgins, that the glory of them may be preserved in their posterity: But to your self the great example of so magnanimous an action, none must dare to aspire, but he who by an invincible vertue shall acquire the Em∣pire of the Universe.

I know not by what tradition you have received the story of your miraculous Image, but Nature hath in your self formed so excellent a shape, a beauty so transcendent, and the whole com∣posure adorned with such heavenly endowments, as if at the same time, in villification of the supreme powers, she meant to ensnare men in Idolatry.

But since you so superstitiously reverence the shadow of a Deity, I may certainly with less offence adore a mortal deifyed with such real perfections.

Therefore you may henceforth remain as secure from any attempt by us against your divine person, your Patriots, or those things which you esteem sacred, as the Temples, and Altars of your Gods are from being prophaned, or destroyed by their own Priests.

This more then expected Grace, abundantly satisfyed Ag∣nesia, as concerning the success of her designe: But she who preferring her Countries honor above her life, came fortifyed with a resolution to defye the strength of a whole army, now inspired with gentler thoughts, neither mindful of Country, nor friends, nor the terror of those dangers so lately passed, through a compassion of her self desired to live, yet not to live unless pittyed by that enemy, whose power she had before despised: And though Heraclius had sufficiently discovered the passions of his mind, yet innocent love ignorant how to extract any assured hopes out of artificial expressions, though she thought he had given her attributes far exceding her merit, yet imputing all to Courtship, she could hardly believe he was an affectionate lover, and when through a self kindnes she would have interpreted his words in favour of her desires, the remem∣brance

of Theodoras greatnes, and the fame of their contracted vowes, so confounded those imaginations, that rage, dispair, and emulation with an united strength combating the sole support of a vertuous minde, if Honor and Chastity had not repelled the fierceness of their invasion, would perhaps have forced a yield∣ing to those violent transportations.

But Reason being now agen placed in its proper sphere, with a heart full of generous thoughts, and the beams darted from her eys, dissipating all cloudes of discontent, like a triumphing Con∣queror, to secure a submissive enemy from his fears, she first threw away her mortal weapon, and then thus replyed.

Theodora's insatiate ambition of rule will be soon satisfied through your generosity, for to be thus vanquished, all Nations will esteem as a certain foundation of their liberty, unless through the fond opinion of a servile loyalty, by suffering your vertue to be made the instrument of her tyrannical oppression, you stain the glory of your Conquests.

However if you so dispose of us, we must now to her render a passive obedience, but I believe the Immortal Juno, who in compassion of our long sufferings inspired you with such a ge∣nerous clemency, hath likewise chosen you to be the Author, and preserver of our future felicity, and remember that Agnesia though a feeble Virgin, deserted by her father and his people, armed with a resolution to despise the power of Theodora though supported by the prowess of Heraclius, yielded not her self, as her slave, but the sole prize of his incomparable Vertue.

When blushing that she had said so much, yet continuing her speech, on a suddain upon the side of a hill descending into the plain, their appeared advancing towards them a numerous Ar∣my, for Conar having collected together his scattered Troops, and being besides animated with a fresh supply of his confede∣rates returned to the City but finding it desolate, and supposing the Sicilians by the advantage of his absence had led his daughter; and the inhabitants into captivity, inraged with the disgrace, he resolved either to free them agen, or else to perish in the enterprise; and their march being likewise perceived by

the Sentinels from the Castle of Oristagnuns, the Comman∣ders not attending any order, fearing a surprisal, issued out with a considerable force, to the defence of their General, which moving a jealousie on either side of some intended stratagem, yet each party apprehending even more then death it self, to be thought guilty of so vile a treachery, they awhile gazed upon each other without uttering a word, but Heraclius fearing his men would advance too far, lest in an ignorant zeal, violence might be offered to the Ladies, without any reply, hasted to withstand their attempt, yet if need were to defend himself from the attempt of the enemy.

But Agnesia by his abrupt departure, judging her self already condemned as a Traitor, with a perplexed mind remained doubtfull, whether to justifie her innocence she should follow Heraclius, or else to prevent the mischief of a fatal encounter, carry the joyfull tidings to her friends, who she saw were come to her rescue, of the happily contracted Peace.

Nevertheless, Love, not yet grown an absolute Tyrant, per∣mitting a consideration of the event, though it were an anguish to her soul to remain so long suspected as the Agent of a contri∣ved treachery, yet reflecting on the dangerous ruine both of her life and honour, through an unhappy misprision on either side, she with all the Virgins, chaunting the praises of their Goddess, as the author of this success, but ignorant what sacrifices they ought to have offer'd to the God of Love, in the same solemn manner of procession, returned towards the Princes host, who being fully informed of all that had passed, no less admiring his sisters matchless resolution, then the transcendent humanity of Heraclius; presently commanding his Army to face about, with general acclamations of joy, they returned to the quiet possession of their City; and Heraclius when he perceived they were marched away, dismissing likewise his Souldiers to their several stations, retired to commune with his own thoughts.

On the one side they represented to him Agnesias youthfull beauty, accompanied with such an undaunted courage, yet go∣verned

by the mildness of a modest chastity; on the other the mature graces of Theodora, with an equal greatness of mind, but subject to all the passions of an unbridled appetite; the one innocent of what she desierd, the other so full of those desires that were destructive to innocence▪ the one tyed to him by the band of a holy vow; himself united to the other by the sacred power of Love, and both, though through a different influence, threatning the period of his fate, he proposed to himself all the waies immaginable how to evade those difficulties into which his cross fortune had plunged him, and at length with the preser∣vation of his honour to compass his desires.

In which perplexity he remained altogether irresolute, till the next day Conar accompanied only with half a dozen of his chief Nobility ariving unexpectedly about a furlong from Orr∣stagnum, without any ceremony or safe conduct, desired admit∣tance to a parley: whereupon Heraclius advertised of his com∣ing, with the like number went to meet him, and after the first salutations were past, retiring a good distance from their fol∣lowers, they entred into privat conference; the effect where∣of was never known to any; only it was observed that they parted with great demonstrations of kindness on either side, and Heraclius assumed a more contented countenance then usually he had shewn in many daies before; which Ergastrix percei∣ving pressed him to resolve his friends concerning their late consultation, and omitting no occasion to incense him against Theodora, produced fresh Letters of the immoderate favours she bestowed upon her new minion Arsidas.

At the perusal whereof, with a disdainfull smile, he replyed, The resolution is already taken; I will not by invading my Country, blemish the renown of my Ancestors with the re∣proach of disloyalty, but by maintaining my faith, punish the infidelity of this perfidious Queen.

To be short, I am determined privatly to imbarque for Sici∣ly, and let none examin the drift of my intentions▪ but that my absence may not be known in the Army, give it out that I am detained in my bed by an access of feaver: In the mean while

to Callisthenes, Clytas and Lysias, with this caution, that by no means they offend the Sardinians, I commit the government of all affairs; to you the care presently to provide a Vessel, and my self will so manage the rest, that at my return, which if I prosper in my designes, shall be no less sudden then my depar∣ture, those friends who have been faithfull to me, shall partici∣pate of the glory; but if I miscarry, be no way involved in my disgraces.

Having thus disposed of all things in order to his intentions, within a few daies after in the habit of a Souldier, attended on∣ly by two trusty servants, he set sail, and guided by a favourable wind, in a short time arrived in the road of Palermo, upon the Western coast of Sicily, where Theodora being then in her Summers progress, recreated her self with the pleasant situati∣on of the place, and to vary her delights, at the same time that Heraclius ship cast anchor, she was in her barge upon the sea, to enjoy the coolness of the evening.

When supposing by her equipage it could be none but the Queen, presently descending into a small skiff, he intended to go on land, yet as he passed, if it were possible, to take a view of Theodora and her company, but being almost within conveni∣ent distance, the gang to shew their address, beginning to row cheerfully with all their force, ignorant of the Stee••smans trea∣chery, who as the bruit present ran, was by some of Aurelias faction suborned to that treason, the barge ran so violently a∣gainst a rock, that her keel being broken, the Queen her self with Arsidas, and the Ladies that accompanied her, were all exposed to the mercy of the Ocean.

Whereupon he hasted to their relief, but Arsidas unskilfull in swimming, was presently drowned, and the rest every one in such an exigence preferring their own safety, hanging about her sides endangered the oversetting of the skiff, which Heraclius perceiving, and that Theodora by the help only of a small plan••, being as yet preserved, cryed out for assistance, casting away his garments he plunged himself into the main, and with a man∣ly strength lanching forward to the distressed Queen, with the

one hand he supported her under the arm, and with the other, like another Neptune to preserve the Queen of his most belo∣ved Island, guided both himself and her, being somewhat as∣sisted by the plank, safe to the shore, from whence a timely as∣sistance was sent to those Ladies that yet hung strugling about the skiff; but when the manner of this accident was related, all grew into a horrible confusion, with terrible threats and excla∣mations against the authors of so foul a Treason.

Nevertheless the Court being again appeased, and the asto∣nishment of the danger a little past, Theodora knew not whether she should most lament the death of Arsidas, or that she was now again preserved by Heraclius; yet questionless the remem∣brance of past obligations, the nobleness of his person, and this present deliverance had restored him again entirely to her fa∣vour, especially now his corival was gon, if Glaucus and Pausa∣nias, two chief Councellors, who because they could not imi∣tate his vertues, envied his advancement, having by their spies intelligence of all that passed, had not malitiously suggested that his excessive greatness began to grow dangerous to the State, and already menaced a destruction of the Royal Authority; for if his ambition were not boundless, why did he not content him∣self to remain in his Government of Sardinia till it had pleased her Majestie to recall him home to greater honours; or if his designes were not pernicious, why in such a manner did he come away; but that which most manifesteth his high aspiring mind, was the assuming to himself such a soveraign power, as of his own head to grant a peace to Rebels, and without the privity of the Councel, to entertain a Conference with a publique Ene∣my.

Which Objections were so aggravated with politick recrimi∣nations, that instead of a reception answerable to the merit of so notorious a service, one morning as he entered into the Palace he was by a suddain surprisal disarmed, and by the guards convey∣ed to a strict prison, where notwithstanding the earnest endea∣vours of secret friends, finding it impossible to gain access to the Queen, and by this violent proceeding confirmed in the O∣opinion

that she had cancelled the Bond of all former Obligati∣ons, the remembrance of Agnesia's beauty wholly possessing his affections, and the known malice of his enemies, represent∣ing to him his present danger, He began for her sake more studi∣ously to think of his own preservation, and by promise of large rewards, so entirely gained Cardonius, Captain of the prison, that the second night after he made an escape, and though with some difficulty in a short time after returned undiscovered to∣wards Sardinia, hoping by the fidelity of his friends, there to arrive in a secure port, from whence he might upon a gentle stream sail to the embraces of Agnesia, whose hereditary right would possess him of a Kingdom, and her fathers forces united with his own, invest him with a power to oppose the Tyranny of Theodora.

But those instruments who with such dexterity wrought his disgrace, being no less diligent at the same time to secure the o∣bedience of that Army; had instantly dispatched Cleomenes, of their Partizans, with a large Commission from the Queen, to assume the charge thereof; who at his first arrival at Oristag∣num, presently secured the persons of Calisthenes, Clytus, and Lysias, with all others who were thought favourers of his de∣signs, and then in a long studyed Oration laid such horrible Trea∣sons to his charge, that the souldiery remained for the most part satisfyed with those transactions; and those whose affections, nor Faith, would not admit of any alteration, Heraclius being absent, and his chief friends under restraint, being destitute of Councel, fearing to act against their own interest, in expecta∣tion of another, submitted to the present change.

Nevertheless Ergastrix as he was more vigilant then the rest, and his power to hurt not so much regarded, escaping the perse∣cution of Cleomenes, easily procured a barque to transport him into Sicily, and having advanced some few Leagues from the shoar, happily encountred his Masters, who being desirous to learn the news of Sardinia, boarded his vessel, and was not a little astonished to meet so accidentally his faithful servant, but understanding by him the state of his affairs, and how his de∣signs

were traversed by Cleomenes, without any long deliberation altering his course, he steered directly for Sardinia; where being received with exceeding honor by Conar, Agnesias gracious de∣portment, added hopes so correspondent to his desires, that he believed he might without offence discover the ardency of his affection; which was so acceptable on the other side, that the nuptials were forthwith celebrated with all the pomp due to the birth of so great a Princess, and the mannagement of the war, being then resolved on as necessary, was wholly committed to his direction.

This news flew quickly to Oristagnum, which caused a sud∣dain disorder in Cleomenes Army, for a considerable party that on∣ly watched an opportunity to express their zeal to their former General, separating themselves from the rest, forced their way through the Guards, to the Tower, where Calisthenes with his other adherents were imprisoned, and having set them at liberty, marched triumphantly with Colours displayed to Heraclius Camp, offering with their lives to secure him from the persecu∣tion of his enemies, and he with this suddain addition of force was so elevated, that he now esteemed himself beyond the reach, or malice, of fortune.

On the other side Cleomenes giving advertizement of this unex∣pected defection into Sicily, was presently supplyed with fresh re∣cruits, wherupon knowing his greatness was inconsistent with his enemies, he took the field, with a resolution to give him battail, which was joyfully accepted by Heraclius, but in the encounter, the circumstances whereof would be tedious to relate, the Sici∣lians on Heracluis party fighting gallantly, being all slain, the Sardinians were soon totally routed, by which defeat their Country remained afterwards annexed to the Sicilian Crown, and their Prince, and people the slaves of the Conquerors. But my unfortunate Father seeking a noble death amongst his enemies, performed actions, which though I spare to mention, succeeding ages will admire, yet being overpressed with multi∣tudes, he vvas at length taken Prisoner, and as a sure token of an entire victory, sent vvith a strong guard into Sicily, vvhere Glau∣cus

and Pausanias, fearing time might mitigate the Queens in∣dignation caused his Process to be presently dispatched, and the Judges being all of the same Cabal, vvithout consideration of his many glorious atchievements, they condemned him to an ignominious death, vvhich being the sentence of a partial Fa∣ction, the relenting people, with a general murmur, voted the Authors thereof the greater malefactors.

But they, vvho about the same time, had barbarously embrew∣ed their hands in the sacred blood of Aurelia, vvhich vvas a horrid example for future ages to violate the dignitie of Prin∣ces, having brought Heraclius so neer the Scaffold, thought all delays dangerous until they had delivered him into the hands of the Executioner.

Nevertheless Theodora, vvho though she dissembled her incli∣nations, vvas of a haughty, insolent spirit, and no less unconstant then cruel in her resolutions, through a disdain as some supposed, that the person vvhom she had once destined to her bed, should by an infamous fall, be laid in an obscure Grave, for the present suspended the Execution, which made others conceive, that hovvever, by the persvvasion of his adversaries, vvho pretend∣ed her safety, she had suffered them to proceed to this tryal, and condemnation, yet she did it only to submit him to her povver, and that some sparks of her former love still remaining, began to kindle a nevv flame, vvhich if he vvould have absolutely humbled himself, and acknovvledging his fault, have repudiated Agnesia, might have lighted the Torches to his second Hyme∣neals.

But those vvho best knevv the Nature of her disposition, be∣lieved she did indeed desire his submission, but with an intent only to insult over his misfortunes, or if she suffered him to live, to let him knovv he lived only by her Grace, and that she vvas abundantly acquit of all past Obligations, in shevving so unusual a clemency, to so great an offender; vvhereas the best of his services could pretend to no other esteem then as the duties of a subject so highly obliged by his Prince, nor to no farther revvard then the acknovvledgemen of his loyalty.

This was the conceit of the best judgements, and Heraclius himself concurred in the same opinion, wherefore besides his un∣alterable affection to Agnesia, rather then to submit, he resol∣ved to entertain death, without any shew of a servile fear, and though some perswaded him to implore the mercy of his Sove∣raign, and intimations were given him even from the Queen her self, that if he would conform to the compliance of a submissive subject, he might expect the mercy of a gracious Princess, yet he would never condescend to owe his life to that person, who had so manifestly outraged his honor.

Notwithstanding the pitteous lamentations of Agnesia, who was then young with child of me, and who, if he died, vowed her own destruction, so shaked his resolutions, that the evening before he suffered, he sent privatly for Despina one of the Ladies of the bed-chamber, who being highly regarded by the Queen, was acquainted with many passages of their former love.

To her therefore with many conjurations of secrecy, he deli∣vered that pledge of a perpetual Union, the divided Ring, which in his greatest perils Theodora had obliged him to send h••r, with a solemn protestation, that she would interpose the whole power of her Kingdom, and even her own life between him and danger; beseeching her if she tendered his life, with all the speed that was possible to convey it to her, and his once most gracious Mistress, not doubting it might produce effects suitable to her own de∣sires.

Despina seemed very joyfull of this occasion to serve him, but like a true Courtier following the vogue of the times, when Heraclius began to decline, she had received the addresses of Glaucus, who being one of Arsidas familiars, and of the then prevalent faction, he so far ingratiated himself into her favour, that to comply with him, having stained the honour of her hus∣bands bed, she thought it no crime to betray to him the secrets of a despicable friend.

So that instead of delivering the half Ring to Theodora, to ob∣lige him the more to her, she carried it immediately to her ser∣vant Glaucus, with a full relation of all other passages, who gi∣ving

her infinite thanks for so great a discovery, charmed her by all the endeerments of their secret love to an everlasting silence, and early the next morning, with Pausanias, posting to the Queen, pressed her with divers arguments to secure her self from many eminent dangers, and her faithful Councellors from their perpetual fears, by delivering at length the publique ene∣my into the hands of Justice, who had not only lived a contem∣ner of her Authority, but being legally convicted of most en∣ormous Treasons▪ had neither acknowledged his guilt, nor once vouchsafed to sue to her for mercy; but on the contrary, boast∣ing of his own innocence, vauntingly affirmed, even to the scan∣dal of her Majesties honour, that though he knew a certain means to secure his life, yet he would rather suffer a thousand deaths, then not leave a testimony to the world, that he despis∣ed both her favour aud her power.

This allegation had so strong an influence upon the woman∣ish humour of Theodora, who more then any thing, resented a contempt, that to punish his arrogance, as she termed it, she con∣desended to their desires, whereupon not expecting any fur∣ther Commission, or Warrant for their proceedings, they hast∣ed to the prison, and to prevent a second reluctance, caused him inhumanly to be dragged out of his bed to the common place of execution, where being spectators of his fall, they did not more glory in their cruelty, then he by a generous con∣tempt of the world, triumphing over their malice, and even death it self, with a chearful alacrity exposed his neck to that fatal stroak, which though at once it deprived him of life, and separated him from his dear Agnesia, yet could not be said to shed his bloud, since it so firmly cemented the affections of the people, both to her and his posterity, that though deprived of her Country, she was ever after honoured by them as a Prin∣cess, and her son since with the Title of their General.

But though I pass over the griefs of Agnesia as altogether unspeakable, it were too great an omission, and even a trans∣gression against the providence of the supream Justice, to seem forgetful of the last Scene of this woful Tragedy.

Despina within the compass of a few moneths was seised by a violent Feaver, in the ravings whereof, she often cryed out upon Heraclius, as if he had been present by her bed; and at length desiring to speak with the Queen, delivering the Ring, revealed her Treachery, and immediately thereupon delivered up the ghost, not without many bitter curses and exclamations of Theodora, who either through a real regret of her ingrati∣tude, or else through a vexation of mind, to be so deprived of her hopes in the submission of Heraclius, passed the rest of her daies in a languishing discontent, and before the year expir∣ed, often sighing out the names of Aurelia, and Heraclius, at length breathed forth her soul; and those torments of consci∣ence that accompanied her to the end, being generally interpret∣ed to proceed from a tenderness of compassion, the effects of her tyrannical cruelty, were wholly imputed to her Ministers, and to her self the glorious, and still lasting titles, of the most Pious, Just, and Merciful of Princes.

End of the Fifth Book.