The extravagant shepherd, the anti-romance, or, The history of the shepherd Lysis translated out of French.

THE Anti-Romance; OR, THE HISTORY Of the SHEPHERD LYSIS. (Book 12)

The Twelfth Book. (Book 12)

ALL the way-long Philiris and his Companions entertained Adrian and his wife with the wonders of Lysis his life, and his strange adventures. They knew not whether they should take all for true misfortunes, or for fictions; and that which troubled them most was, to see the serious fa∣shions of those from whom they had those fine relations. They went on till they came near the little house of the Vine-dresser Bertrand, whence they saw Lysis and Car∣melin come forth. Assoon as Fontenay perceived Lysis, he cry'd out to him, Do you hate us so much Shepherd, that you would be gone and not bid us a diew? My journey hath not been far, replies Lysis, and besides, I use no ceremony to∣wards you: But alas! can I call my self a Shepherd and not shed tears? Car∣melin will tell you I am a Shepherd without Sheep: 'Tis too true, saies Carmelin, Our Host, seeing we came not back in a long time, and that we ought him some money, hath sold our sheep to the first Drover that came by; nay he saies we are still in his debt; the poor dumb creatures being so out of case that he could make nothing of them: My Master was much the better to tell him again, that he should have kept them for us, and have sent them abroad every day: He told him he had not the leasure to do it, that they would have grown worse and worse, and that he had a Vintage to look after. That's the true account of my

misfortune, saies Lysis with a sad countenance; this is all the satisfaction I could get of the rustick beast. The worst on't is, that being unwilling to be at the charge to keep my dear Musedore, a loving cur I had left with him, he hath bea∣ten him so, that he is run away to get a condition somewhere else; If I knew where he was, I would go for him: and if I thought my sheep were yet alive, I would buy them again, though they cost me so much apiece as the whole ••lock stood me in. Here's my Cousin, who once before did me the like discourtesie; but for that time I was comforted by Anselme, as being resolved to leave the place I was in then: As for this Country, the case is not the same, for I intend to live here alwaies, and in the mean time I shall have nothing to do, having no flock to look after. You speak as if there were no more sheep in the world, saies Philiris, I undertake you shall find enough; you must not be troubled for such a small matter: That which adds to my grief (saies Lysis to him softly taking him aside) is that thou hast not done as I desired thee by the Lacquay; thou art not come privately to me that so no body might know where I was, but hast brought Adrian along, who is the only man in the world that I fear, and whom I desire not to be near. I must tell you the reason why I did it, replies Philiris, 'tis be∣cause we have prevailed so far with this your troublesome Cousin, as that he is not so eager to take you away: Nay it's more likely he and his wife will stay with us: O God! what good news is that, cries out Lysis, if it be so, I will never be sad, for this adventure will furnish me with joy as long as I live. It is then true my dear and sweet Cousins, that it is not your desire I should return any more to Paris (continues he, turning towards his friends) all these Shepherds will be obliged to you, because they esteem my company; but I am moreover assured that you will enter into Shepherdry as well as we: O what a commenda∣ble thing it is! you shall be added to the number of the Parisian Shepherds that are to come hither; can you tell any news of them? I will not contradict you for the present, saies Adrian, do me only the favour as to tell me what kind of life you have led since you left Paris, for these Gentlemen, whom I have born com∣pany hither, have told me strange things, whereof I would be assured from your own mouth▪ You desire what's most just and reasonable, as I am an Heroick Shepherd, saies Lysis, since you are he among my friends, to whom Authority hath given me in charge, 'tis fit I give you an account of my actions. It's only necessary we go into the shade; Here we have it, saies Polidor, shewing him a little thicket; but is there no need you feed your own body before you enter∣tain the minds of others; I and Carmelin have just now been at a banquet where a man fears neither poyson nor excess, replies Lysis, bread, nuts and grapes which we bought of the Countrey-people, have been varieties wherewith we have satis∣fied nature, to reduce our selves to moderation after the sumptuous Feasts at the Marriages of Hircan and Anselme. A little water taken up in the hollow of the hand out of the fluid Cristal of a Fountain hath afterward banished our thirst, in commemoration of that happy time of the Golden Age, which knew no other drink, nor other cup. There needs not much to satisfie the man who bridles his appetite with his reason; but he that suffers himself to be carried away by the flattery of his sence, though there were a thousand worlds; yet 'twere not enough to satisfie him. These indeed are golden words, saies Adrian, who was a lover of Temperance, if you speak thus alwaies, I shall have a better opinion of you then ever I had yet. He having said so, they made towards the thicket, where all being sate down on the grass, Lysis spoke thus.

Since you are already acquainted with a good part of my life, Cousin Adrian, you desire not I should lose time in long relations; I shall only tell you briefly the sum of my affairs: Being come into this Countrey with Anselme and Mon∣tenor, the first thing we did was, to go and see Leonara and Angelica at Orontes's house, where I must confess to you, I love to be above any place, because Cha∣rite lives there, which Charite is that incomparable Beauty by whom I have long since bin enchanted: The amorous discourses we had together, are unseasonable as

to the present occasion: It shall suffice to tell you that when I parted thence, I made acquaintance with Clarimond, who lives here hard by, one whose dispositi∣on pleases me extreamly, were it not that he bestows his wit in abuses. The next day I gave my fair one a Serenade with much reputation, for I did wonders on the Gitarre; but in pursuing a Hamadryad that plaid on the Lute, I lost my way, so that I lay that night in the fields, which was an adventure rather pleasant then troublesome. The next day I met with a Hermit who put me into my way, which I lost again, but so fortunately that I met with the Magician Hircan, who enter∣taining me very courteously, did me the honour to let me see his Nayad Synopa: He afterward changed me into a Maid, and I lived in that condition at Orontes's with all the content in the world. He after that unchang'd me again, because they would have put me to death upon a false accusation: And awhile after I met in the fields this Carmelin, whom you see, who told me I was in Brie, and not in Forrests; upon which consideration, as also because of his great learning, I took him into my service; and went my waies to Clarimonds, resolv'd to have no more to do with Anselme and Montenor, who had put such an affront upon me. I sent to buy Sheep, which done, I went to Hircans, where I had almost quarrelled with Fontenay. I was once like to be imprisoned by the Vineyard-kee∣per: I received a unsatisfactory answer to a love Letter I sent to Charite; and at last my afflictions obliged the Gods to change me into a Tree: I could not become a man again for all Clarimond could do; he did nothing but water me to make me bud forth, and when it was once night, I play'd, I danc'd, I collation'd with t••e Divinities of the Country. Carmelin would not believe any of these miracles, but I made him taste part of our entertainments: After this Hircan restored me to my former shape. I returned again to Orontes's being as much a man as ever I was, I sent a Letter and a Bill to be posted up and down, to Paris, to invite the Wits of the times to come and see me, which hath already had its effect. About that time I received a heavy Command without Command from Charite, and was sick in imitation of her: I met with Philiris, Polidor, and Meliantes, who were newly arrived into this Country, and I saw two converted Shepherdesses, Par∣thenice and Amaryllis, one is married to Hircan, and the other was chang'd into a great Stone. These brave Shepherds here present have all related their Histo∣ries to me, which are most admirable: They have seen the Ambassadors were sent to me from the Shepherds of Paris: We have acted Playes before them, to shew them how pleasantly we pass away our time; you came hither when we were at one but since that, Hircan sent me to an Inchanted Castle, whence I deli∣vered the fair Pamphilia; but the dangers I ran through were so great, that the ve∣ry relation is enough to cause horror: I was fifteen daies in the air with Carmelin, much higher then the region wherein the Meteors are formed; I have bin in pla∣ces blacker then the abode of Pluto: I have fought with Gyants, so high as that they might have scal'd heaven without Ladders, and with crump-back'd and breasted fellows, who seemed to be made to disgrace nature. I overcame also a Dragon, which rose up out of the foam of the Serpent Python, which was killed by Phoebus. And these are my principal adventures, which I am very glad I have had the occasion to relate, both that you may believe, aud to rub Philiris's me∣mory, who hath undertaken to dispose them into a Book. When it is perfected you will find these things better described and more adorn'd; for being to speak to you in haste, I have not had the leasure to scrue my self up to any imbellish∣ments of discourse.

Lysis having spoken thus, Adrian was quite beside himself to find that what he said, answered to what the other Shepherds had told him. He knew not what to think of it, and yet he told his Cousin that he did not half understand his lan∣guage, because his terms were extreamly Poetical. He thereupon takes Carme∣lin aside, and there being no other of whom to enquire the truth of what he desi∣red, said to him, I see thou hast the countenance of an honest fellow, and there∣fore am I glad my Cousin hath entertained thee, for he must have one to help

him in a place which is not his native Countrey. I will do any thing lies in my power for thy preferment, thou shalt in requital only tell me whether all thy Master hath related be true or no: I shall tell you no more then I know, replies Carmelin; as concerning his transformation into a Tree▪ 'twas not so much as he thought it, for his face could be seen; but for the Divinities which visited him, to pass away the time, I have known by experience but too much of the certainty thereof, as a punishment of my incredulity. As for our Combats with Mon∣sters they are as true as that I am Carmelin; though we got the victory yet did we receive good blowes, but I cannot shew you any marks to verifie what I say, for Hircan had made us both, as he cals it, invulnerable, that is to say, that we could not be wounded.

Carmelin having said thus, Adrian turned to the rest, and said to them, this honest man doth also confirm what his Master told me; but though I should believe all more firmly then I do, yet it but obliges me the more to take him with me to the good City of Paris, for there's not so much danger there, nor any Monsters to fight with: If any one have done you wrong, there's justice to do you right; and if a Witch should change one thing into another, she may be burnt in the Greve. What simplicities do you speak, good man? replies Meli∣antes, if your Cousin hath run any danger for me, he hath done the greatest work of charity in the world; and besides that the Gods will reward him, he hath gotten eternal renown thereby: such a reputation as his, cannot be too dear bought. That he hath undergone a Metamorphosis in this Country, and suffered much affliction, it hath been on occasion so noble, that there's not any but could have wished the same fortune. 'Tis for love that he sighs, 'tis for love that he weeps; and which is yet more remarkable! 'tis for the love of the fair Charite: would you forbid him so noble a passion? would you put off humanity to commit such a signal act of brutality? Since you have married the Gentlewoman your wife, is it to be questioned whether you love her? If it be so, would you forbid ano∣ther man that you could not be without your self: But is it in your power, or a∣ny mans in the world, to hinder Lysis to love, since Nature hath furnished us with the precepts thereof from our infancy? All this is well and good, saies Adrian, I know well, that as one hand washes the other, and both the face, so the husband and the wife help one another mutually, and may afterward do good to their whole race: and this is the reason why I married, and I should not be sorry if my cou∣sin were so too, nor consequently can I find fault with him for being in love; but there are many things to be wished in his person, before we entertain any thoughts of that business. We have it from Plutarch that Lycurgus put a note of Infamy on those that did not marry, saies Carmelin. They durst not appear at the publick Festivities, and in mid-winter they were forced to dance naked, singing a certain Song made in abuse of themselves. Besides all this, when they were old, the younger sort of people went before them, and did them no respect. Thus you see how the ancients detested Coelibate, and desired nothing so much as to propagate man, who is the King of all the other creatures. Moreover, happy marriages make us enjoy on earth the felicity of heaven. Tis all the com∣fort we have against the miseries of this life: There is no affliction so grievous which the hearts of a husband and a wife joyn'd together, cannot support. Thus the wife of Mithridates, having caused her hair to be cut off, bore arms as well as he, which comforted him infinitely.

Carmelin having ended his discourse, scratch'd his head a little, as if he would have made somewhat more come out by the stirring it received from his nails: This start of Carmelin is not to be wondred at, saies Philiris, we know he hath his common places as a Sergeant of a Company his Halbards. If all his ancient Lectures came but into his mind, there's no Subject on which he is not able to en∣tertain us: Truly, saies Carmelin, when I heard Marriage spoken of, I could not but out with what was at my tongues end. There's somewhat else in the wind, saies Meliantes, questionless thou hast a great mind to be married, and

wouldst fain have us find out a wife for thee. But not to quit the discourse we were in before; let's speak to Adrian: We desire him to tell us what fault he finds in his Cousin. He wants many things, replies Adrian, especially that he knows neither Trade nor Traffick to get his living by: How shall he maintain a wife and children? what quality shall he be of in the world? He will be slight∣ed every where, and taken for an idle person: 'Tis true, saies Carmelin, that since man sinned, God hath condemned him to get his bread in the sweat of his brows: 'tis said that he that doth not labor shal not eat, and that to do nothing is to do ill; so Solomon sends the idle person to school to the Ant. Hold thou thy peace Car∣melin, saies Lysis to him, no body asks thee any thing: Thou wilt anon speak more against me then thou canst for me, for thou powrest out thy sentences as they come without any consideration. Be not thou among those that are trou∣blesome to me; I am sufficiently afflicted to be far from my expectation, as also to see that my cousin will not be a Shepherd, nor suffer me to be one, as I had been made believe. Do not impose silence on your man, who speaks so well, replies Adrian, I am glad you are with such a brave Doctor; you have in him a good preceptor; he would shew you that you ought not to spend your time here in acting of Comedies and dancing with young maids: 'Twere better be in some good imployment, that were the way to find a good match, since you are so much in love, for it is said at Paris, That Offices are the Porters that let a man into the Palace of Marriage. Will you never give over doating, saies Mo∣liantes? Is not Lysis in the noblest condition in the world? Is he not one of these illustrious Shepherds which we find in the Arcadia? That we are clad in white, is only in imitation of him; he hath undertaken to restore the felicity of the first age of the world. If you will participate with us, you must be a Shep∣herd as well as he: Otherwise you must still live at Paris, where all vices are in their thrones, and where you are lock'd up to the mercy of afflictions and dis∣quiets. The infections are so great, that the Physician often dies before the Pa∣tient, and those that carry the dead to the ground, leave them at half way. 'Tis true, saies Carmelin, Multitude is never without contagion, and what is worst of all, there is a plague of souls as well as of bodies; I desire my Masters pardon for this word: I'll speak no more. When he speaks only of Shepherdry or Me∣tamorphosis, I seem to be ignorant enough; but when it comes to morality, I'll make it known I am no small Clark, and therefore 'tis not to be wondred if I lay hold on any occasion to shew my Learning. Every one is glad to shew what he knows; 'tis I know not how long since I have spoken so much: I pardon thee since thou desirest it saies Lysis, but do not interrupt any body but to som purpose. Carmelin observes his time to speak very well, saies Polidor, it puts me in mind of those pickeerers in an Army, who charge, and fall off, then charge again, so doing for a many times together.

Every one was taken with that conceit, and as the Shepherds went on still in discourse, Pernella takes her husband aside, and told him she knew no reason why he should talk so long with people, who seemed to be as great fools as their Cousin, and that if Lysis would not return to Paris, they must were it but to ac∣quaint the rest of his friends with it. He answered, that since the day was farr spent, there was no thinking of going till the morrow, because he would not lie by the way, and that then they should see what were to be done.

In the mean time Clarimond who had been abroad upon some occasions passed by, and alighted to salute the Shepherds. We are here in a great contestation, saies Fontenay to him. Here's Adrian who would take away from us the Shep∣herd Lysis, who is the honour of this Country: He will have him by all means take another course of life, and get into some Office in the City. He is in the right, replies Clarimond, with a smile, and you that would hinder it, I must tell you you are all fools: That's it we would tell them Sir, cries out Pernella, ah! you are a brave Gentleman. For my part I have been these three hours with them, but I durst not open my mouth, lest they should speak to me, for their

strange discourses do so amaze me, that I think my selfe in another world. I'll promise you Mistress, continued Clarimond, to make them find their wits, before a few daies be over. They are persons at least of as good quality as Lysis, and yet they will do no good in the world: They entertain themselves with Poeti∣call extravagances, and because they find your Cousin sick of the same disease as themselves, they love his company. I am now come from a great man in this Country who hath promised me to found an Hospital purposely for them; there shall they most charitably by whipt till this humour be over. May that Gen∣tleman have his hearts desire, saies Pernella, he must needs be a very devout man, I would I might speak with him, that I might get him to do somewhat for our Cousin: We'll talk of it when we meet next, replies Clarimond, at the present I am somewhat in haste.

Clarimond in saying this went his way, and the Shepherds would still make Adri∣an and his wife believe that they would live in a Pastoral way, and that they were not out of their wits. They therefore looked very modestly, and swore that Clarimond himself was mad, and that it would not be long ere he should put on the fools Coat. They advised Lysis not to walk any more near his Castle, nor take any Pastures that way if ever he had any sheep.

He thought their councel very good, and so returned cheerfully to Hircans with his Companions and his Cousins too, since he could not avoid it. Fontenay told Hircan what discourse had passed, wherein there wanted not matter to laugh at. Adrian comes to see Hircan, to whom he said, that he could not but wonder how a man so wise and so learned as he was, would entertain into his house such people as Lysis and his companions, and that he had met a Gentleman who told him they were all out of their wits, which was easily discovered by their actions and words, though sometimes they strived to be very serious. Hircan reply'd, that that Gentleman was deceived, and that he would give him the lie wherever he met him So Adrian was sent back again with little satisfaction: He and his wife retired to consult what they should do, and Lysis and Carmelin did the like.

Thou maist easily perceive Carmelin, saies Lysis, that this Cousin of mine who cals himself my Guardian, is a most importunate fellow: Though I were not re∣solved to pass away my time in the Country, yet should I hardly be brought to live with him in the City. As for his wife, she is no better then he; I must therefore find out some way to get them hence, without force or noise; but the mystery of all will be at the same time to accomplish somewhat that may recom∣mend me to Charite and all posterity. 'Tis there I must make appear the very edg of ingenuity. Without any long preambles, I will in a word tell thee the best expedient I know, and that is to counterfeit my self dead for awhile: Adrian will presently return to Paris, as having no more to do here: But you do not consider, saies Carmelin, that he or your heirs will possess themselves of all you have, and you shall be forced to beg: I can re-enter into my possession when I please, replies Lysis: I shall soon make my self known: and besides, though I had nothing of all my father and mother left me, must I be cast down and fare e∣ver the worse, since that in all Romances you will find divers in strange Countries having nothing in the world, who yet were Princes or Knights, of better houses then I am of. They lived only by what they borrowed of good friends whom they found every where; does that seem strange to thee? Do the Romances speak any thing incredible as to that point? Sometimes Montenor hath entertained us, sometimes Orontes, sometimes Hircan, nay sometimes Clarimond, though he seem now to be my greatest enemy; and this is a thing not to be passed by without ad∣miration. As plainly shewing that all true lovers are favoured by heaven. Thou seest also that Polidor and Meliantes who are of a Country further distant hence then ours, and have nothing of their own, do yet live plentifully enough, by the courtesie of those friends they meet, who are their benefactors. There are in some books Lovers mentioned who have lived only upon Roots in the deserts like

Hermits, and divers have been hirelings to Shepherds to get a livelyhood: What should hinder but we may do the like if we be brought to that extremity, since 'tis no more then we have done for our recreation? You are wiser then I, replies Carmelin, and therefore all the answer I make you is, that I will not contradict you in any thing, but will be alwaies of your opinion, Hear then what my de∣signe is, saies Lysis, I will feign my self dead, both to get away this Adrian, and withall, to find out whether my Mistress will have any compassion on me, and that's it I aim at principally. Now there's a great difference between death and a Metamorphosis; for I suffered my self to be metamorphosed into a Tree with∣out any resistance, because there was some hope I might one day be restored to my former shape; but as concerning death, when we go that journey we shall never return: That makes me resolve to die only in jest, for if I should dispatch my self as many have done that I could name, 'twere a strange folly, since 'tis not beyond hope I may one day be happy. There are a many in your Roman∣ces that have killed themselves because of the cruelty of their Mistresses; and they again, some of them having notice of their death, have murdered themselves after them, or at least have all their lives repented their cruelty and disdain. It may be seen by this, that if those desperate people had had the wit to feigne death, they might have been extreamly happy. My intention thereof is so much the more excellent, and there is now no more to do then to bethink us of the means to put it in execution. There are some that hide a piggs bladder full of bloud be∣tween their skins and their shirts, and give themselves a stab there; they fall and seem to be quite gone, till every one runs to help them; but I do not like that way: a man might hurt himself if the Ponyard went a little further then it should; but there are other accidents stranger yet; besides, that when they came to search your wound, the cheat would be discovered, which would be scandalous and laught at. I will therefore play my game better if I can. I will take a glass of Wine with somewhat in it which every one will conceive to be poison, and when I have drunk it off, I will be as stiffe as an iron barre, and will keep in my breath as if I were dead; a while after thou shalt make as if thou hast buried me, and the business is done. Now I will lurk somewhere till Adrian be gone, and Cha∣rite being acquainted with my death, shall have time enough to bewayle my loss. When thou shalt perceive her grief excessive, and that she wishes from her heart I were alive again, that she might honour me with her affection, which she had denied me before, let me know it immediately, that I may go and take her at her word, and receive the recompence of my afflictions. Now when we are come thus farre, there are inventions enough to make the world believe I have bin rais'd again; and thus I shall so much the more ingratiate my self with Charite, who will look on me as a man highly in favour with the Gods. Thus will I com∣pass my desire; and what will most comfort me is, That I have run through all the adventures of the best Histories, and that my own will be the most accom∣plish'd in all the world. As for the stealing away of Charite, I think no more on't; 'tis enough I once had such a designe. My thoughts are now all taken up with my feigned death; perhaps 'twill be generally believed that I was dead in deed, and was raised again; so that Philiris shall not mention it as a fiction in his book, or if he do, he shall speak of it as an opinion of some few but which he shall condemn as erroneous, affirming my death to have been real.

When Lysis said this, he thought little of Polidors being behind him, and hea∣ring all his discourse. This Shepherd having heard Lisis his designe, retired as if he had heard nothing, and resolved to give notice to his Companions, that they might act their parts well when the business came upon the Stage. As for Car∣melin, his Masters enterprise, to him, was very indifferent, for he thought better to do so then lose him quite, which haply he had done if Adrian had taken him away to Paris. He therefore promised him his utmost assistance, and so they went both to Hircan. Adrian and Pernella came thither at the same time to know whether they might be gone with their Cousin the next day; Hircan told

them that after three daies they should have him away, desiring in that time, to satisfie himself with his conversation; Pernella told him they could not stay so long, that it was a good while since they had been from home, and that they had left in the Shop but one Prentice of whose fidelity they were not over-confident. Hircan regarded not much these remonstrances, and while Pernella was thus ta∣ken up, Fontenay who had bethought himself of a new invention to make sport, sate down in a chair, whence he pronounced these words with a languishing voice, What my bright Sun, saies he, will you leave us already? Would you shine in another hemisphere, whence you will never return? Alass, 'tis fit the world be all served by degrees: Why will you forsake me fair Pernella, the or∣nament of this age; life of my soul, what will you return to Paris, there to be the Pearl of your Quarter? Continue rather in this Country, where you shall receive greater honours; I will make Verses of you shall make you famous over all the world, and you will be more talked of then Petrarch's Laura. If the fair Cytherea be sometimes drawn by Swanns; I would have you like that Goddess, and I will be your sweet singing Swan to draw your glorious Chariot. What do you think on dear Cousin, saies Hircan, have you forgot you are married? have you lost all remembrance of the fair Theodora your wife? You must love her eternally, you must not be inconstant: When I married her, I was not ac∣quainted with Mistress Pernella, replies Fontenay, had I known her, I should have loved none but her: 'tis she that is destined for me, let Adrian turn her over to me, I earnestly intreat him, and let him look after Theodora, he shall have her in exchange that he may have no occasion to complain: What trick is this put on me? cries out Adrian, am I come among a sort of Adulterers? what vi∣lany is this to propose to me the greatest basenese in the world! I will have my wife and my Cousin together; if I shall not be suffered to take them away, I will bring the power of justice to do it. You do not consider where you are when you speak this, saies Meliantes, no Officer dares come within three miles about of this place. There are in this house charms that can reduce them all to dust: There came hither one once and took one of Hircans men by the chollar, his hand presently fell off, and some Sergeants being somewhat incivil, were all fast∣ned to stakes, and after they were rubb'd well with oyle and brimstone, they burned a long time to give light to Travellers in the night.

While Meliantes said this, Lysis asked Hircan whether he and Carmelin were still invulnerable, and whether for his own part, he had not lost that priviledge by putting off his Heroick Coat: Hircan assured him he had not, so that he re∣solved to defend himself couragiously, if any Sergeants presumed to touch his body to carry him away to Paris. There came up on this occasion a fresh ima∣gination into his mind, which he never had before: he would needs know how Hircan could assure him he was invulnerable, since he was wonnded every day by the darts of love: Hircan told him it was true indeed, that love had wounded him, but that it was before he had made use of his charms, and that besides, he had promised only to fortifie his body against the Arms of Mars, but not against the Arrows of Cupid, which are so small that they are invisible, and pierce insensibly through the eyes even to the heart. This satisfied Lysis, and being retired with Carmelin, he told him he was very glad to know he was as invulnerable as when they were in the Castle of Anaximander; and there's one thing, saies he, will much promote my designe, which is, when I have taken the poison, it will be said that in regard I could not be hurt in any part of the body, and that swords and daggers could do no good upon me, I could not possibly die but by a drink.

Carmelin approved this, and in the mean time Hircan seeing Adrian was al∣most mad for anger, entertained him with this discourse. You are to consider my good friend, sayes he to him, that you are now among Shepherds, whose principal profession is to love: All their books speak of nothing else; they know nothing else, and therefore be not offended at their too free dis∣courses; they are a sort of people that are much given to the exercise of the pas∣sions,

and will be in the pursuit of a woman ten years, so that at the end of such a term she requite them with a piece of old ribbond wherewith she have tied up her hair: They are not impudent as you think them: their Laws are against it: they do not speak to their Mistresses but they tremble; and if they desired to touch her brest, fear would so benum them, that their hands would grow stiff at half way. I have a wife as well as you, but if fifty Shepherds, such as Fontenay, should be in love with her, I should have never a worm the more in my head, be∣cause I know he is the fearfullest man in the world; and besides, that he hath the reputation to be impotent; you must in your self laugh at such a mans passion, yet make as if you were angry before him, that he may not take you for an ar∣rant fool: if you carry your self so, I believe you cannot do amiss, and you may afterward tell stories of your Lovers affections.

Adrian was not satisfied with these reasons, nor indeed did Hircan endeavour much to appease him; what he had said to him was by way of abuse. Adrian therefore was extreamly troubled, and though his wife had turned over thirty, and was black and lean, yet did he think her handsome, and was a little jealous: 'twas an infinite pleasure to see him ever and anon look towards Fontenay, to ob∣serve what countenance he made on Pernella. This feigned Lover having fetcht three or four deep sighs, fell down all along upon chairs as if he had swouded, whereat his companions seem'd much troubled, rubbing his temples, and cast∣ing water on his face.

When they had brought him to himself again, he for a long time stared on all that were about him, Alass! my dear friends, said he, why have you so soon in∣terrupted the sweet extasie? My mind pleased it self in the Ideas of all worldly pleasures, and now it knows nothing real but its own affliction: I burn witout hope of enjoyment, for an ungratefull woman, that hath not vouchsafed me so much as a look, since I have declared my affection to her.

Hircan upon this, said that since he was so ill he were best be had to bed, which made his companions lead him to his chamber, making a thousand extravagant postures. Thus these Gentlemen, since they became acquainted with Lysis, were so accustomed to abuse him, that they abused one another, and would not spare Adrian nor his wife, supposing their minds of the same mettal with their Cousin, and that simplicity was entailed on the whole race from generation to generation.

There was only Lysis that staid with Hircan, who began to bring afresh into his mind the pleasures of their former life, because Adrian was present, whom he would also perswade that the shepherds life was the most happy. In the mean time Carmelin took occasion to go and see Amaryllis, who was alone in her Chamber, where she asking him what the other Shepherds had done since they were return∣ed? He answered, that he knew not what to say of them, and that they knew not what they did themselves, they were so in love. And is it possible Carmelin can be, and not be in love? Truly Madam, reply'd he, since I have ever found you my good friend, I will freely tell you what my heart thinks. A man must once in his life at least, discover what his inclinations are. 'Tis possible I may be in love, but not with Parthenice: Were I a stone like her whom my Master will have me love, 'twere not amiss I were joyned to her; but then should I not love her nei∣ther: and thus would I reason; I would say, that in such a condition I could neither receive nor return any thing of love. Let every thing love what's like it, let stones be in love with stones, grass with grass, plants with plants, and let the vine if it will, clime up an elme: I have often heard it said that this is done by a certain sympathy of nature, whose designe is to joyn all things together: But it makes for me, whatever my Master saies; I should sin against nature if I should not love what were of my own species: It signifies much indeed, that Lysis tels me that Ivie scales the walls to shew it loves stones, and that I should do so too, as having some relation to the Ivie, since I represented Bacchus. This was the subject of our discourse this morning, where we were alone; but my full and final answer was, that I was a man, and could eat and drink, and not Ivie, good

for nothing but to clap on issues. He thereupon told me, that to punish my con∣tempt of the Ivie, the Gods would change me into that plant, and that he thought the part I plaid in the pastimes of the Vintage, was a great presage there∣of, since I was then compassed about with branches which I should one day re∣ally bear. At last, quoth he, 'tis the most convenient Metamorphosis for thee, and quoth he, thou art to hope no less. I have given over, quoth he, the designe of changing thee into a Fountain, as I once thought, quoth he, when I thought it fit thou shouldst water the bottom of the beloved rock. It will be more proper, quoth he, that thou be Ivie, that quoth he, thou maist climb up the rock of Parthe∣nice, and embrace it, quoth he, with thy branches. Your discourse indeed is not amiss, I must confess, saies Amaryllis, interrupting him, but I must tell you one thing, if you did not use that quoth he, so often, you would do better: I have often heard you use that kind of expression, which is not good, for that repetiti∣on is superfluous: but yet I would not tell you so much till now that we are a∣lone. I am obliged to you for being so tender as to the ornament of my lan∣guage, replies Carmelin, for it is a signe you will shew me favour in things of more importance: but I must tell you it is not without reason that I repeat the word quoth he, so often; for 'tis to let you know that it was not I, but my Ma∣ster said such a thing: if I durst, I would not close up every period, but second every word with it, that you may not be mistaken; and know that all I tell you, is by way of allegation. I should be very sorry you should think I my self said that it was convenient for me to be metamorphosed into Ivie.

Amaryllis laught at this very heartily, and confessed that Carmelin's excuse was extream pleasant, and thought that no other body could have had the wit to imagin such a one, though many in their relations used the like repetition, and that as frequently: However she told him, that if he was troubled to make ap∣pear that his Masters discourses were not his, it signified he did not esteem him much: You'll pardon me there, saies Carmelin, but I must tell you freely, that my Master speaks many things which a man must not believe, which proceeds from that disturbance of mind he is in by reason of his love, and in this he will not contradict me, for it were not for his credit. Since you will not believe him, saies Amaryllis, what is your designe then? 'Tis only that I dare not declare my self, lest I should be thought unconstant, reply'd Carmelin; as for your part Madam you know partly what I would say: I would to God I had seen Liset∣ta before Parthenice! I say no more. You would tell me, saies Amaryllis, that if you had fallen in love with Lisetta before Parthenice, you should have been sent to the former, which you would have been glad of, because she were the bet∣ter company. I have found out an expedient in this business of yours, for Hir∣can having related to me all your adventures, told me how that one night, being with Lysis, while he was a Tree there was a Nymph called Lucida, who said that you should have for Mistress the greater of the Hamadriads which were in the Company: She that was spoken of was Lisetta, who is now restored to her former shape. Now it must be said that you have been in love with her ever since that time; and that all the hurt you have said of her since, was only to shew how far you were sensible of the smart of your whipping.

Carmelin was almost out of himself at this good councel, which he was the gladder to receive from Amaryllis, because 'twas she had been the Fountain Lucida: She was thanked with almost as many conges as words, whereupon Carmelin left her and returned to his Master, to whom he said that he had con∣ceal'd a great secret from him out of a certain fearfullness, but that he could hide it no longer. Lysis told him he should be glad to hear it, so that Carmelin ac∣quainted him, that he had been in love with Lisetta, since the time she was an Hamadryad, and that he had obeyed the command he had received from Lucida to love her: Why didst thou not tell me so? replies Lysis, why didst thou profess love to Parthenice, committing an inconstancy, and an infidelity wherein I con∣firmed thee, as not knowing thou hadst before lost thy liberty? I did no fur∣ther

inform my self, because I thought thou hadst had it still; for when I spoke to thee of Synopa, Lucida, Lisetta, and her companion the Apricock-tree-Nymph, thou saidst they were all witches, and that thou wouldst avoid their assemblies, as those of the Sabat. I beg your pardon for these faults, saies Carmelin, my mind was then full of bad opinions: I believe it and pardon thee, saies Lysis, it was ea∣sily judged that thou never hadst but a feigned passion for Parthenice, since thou didst so soon forsake her, and didst disclaim her assoon as ever that misfortune of losing her proper from hapned to her. 'Tis said, that he who leaves off loving, never lov'd; I did much suspect that there was some reason for thy aversion to that poor Rock: Let's think on't no more, Carmelin, fate hath decreed that thou love Lisetta: Thou art now the happiest among the happiest Lovers in the world, thou livest in the same place with thy Mistress, thou canst speak to her at any time, or thou maist see her at least: O how would far more illustrious Shepherds then thou art, wish such an adventure, nay even the disgras'd and disfavour'd shep∣herd Lysis who must die anon, because he cannot enjoy that happiness Alass! my tongue, discover no more, lest you be over-heard of some who are strangers to what hath been resolv'd in the councel of our thoughts.

Carmelins joy at this time made no harmony with the sadness of his Master, so that he only thank'd him in common expressions for the favour he did him by suffering him to love Lisetta. Lysis in the mean time, whose thoughts were very changeable, resolved to speak thus to Hircan who made towards them. I have been a while since in thy Kitchin, where I observed the killing and dressing of a pigg, saies he to him, which put me in mind of the ancient sacrifices; wherein they consulted the entrails of the Beasts: 'Twere requisite my Cousin should be desired to sacrifice, to know if he ought to oppose my being a Shep∣herd. I should also desire to be resolved of it by the flight of birds, and such o∣ther waies of presaging: Speak no more of it, saies Hircan, I shall use no more perswasion to him, you shall be a Shepherd in spight of all his foolish conceits: Yet would it at least be a noble thing to sacrifice and observe all the ancient Ce∣remonies, replies Lysis, we should have brought victims for the prosperity of your Marriage, as also to thank the Gods for their assistance to me in divers dangerous adventures. Some Shepherdesses should bring baskets full of Flowers, others Vessels with fire and a romatick odours, and then the Shepherds should lead up the Crowned Victims: Thus should we gain admiration by that excellent order, as a thing that had not been seen of a long time. Men sometimes are not pleased with novelties, if their minds are not prepared to receive them, replies Hircan, and therefore let us not so hastily introduce those customs you speak of: 'Tis true they are ancient, but they would be new to us because they have been so long dis∣continued.

Hircan having said this, retired, and Carmelin presumed to ask his Master what were the most certain and remarkable presages besides the flight of birds; He told him that when a man undertook any business, he must observe the persons he first met, and what discourse he had with them, or some other circumstance, and thence make some conjecture at what may happen. Carmelin thought him∣self able enough for this; and so leaving his Master to his melancholick thoughts, he would go and see his Mistress, but before-hand would trie some presage, thereby to know the end of his loves: he went into a place where he found a maid heating the oven, which having acquainted his Master with, he told him that that maid represented Lisetta, who had put fire into his brest; and as for the bread she put in to bake, that shewed that the fair one should participate of his flames, and should give him her heart to heat. This good presage could no less then stir up Lysis to seek such another; but he would go more ceremonially to work, and the many other designes he had to bring about, diverted him from thinking on this.

Carmelin being over head and ears in love, would needs trie one more whe∣ther he could meet with his Mistress. He came down into a Parlor where he

found Amaryllis talking with three Countrey-peoyle, who had brought her some wheat which they ought her for rent. There was a napkin laid at the Tables end, with a piece of salt pork, the better to make them taste a glass of wine. Amaryl∣lis bid Carmelin do as they did, which he would not be entreated twice to do, such was his fear to be troublesome.

Being all four at Table, there was a Lacquay filled them some wine, and laid e∣very man his glass at his trencher; Carmelin seeing the others did nothing but eat, and were not yet disposed to drink, as being not so bold before Amaryllis, he who had a greater gift of confidence, took his glass that sate next him, and drank it clearly off. This it may be was a mistake, for that glass stood as it were be∣tween them; but awaile after he took anothers glass and did the like, so that for this there could be no excuse; it is to be supposed that he seeing he came off so well, no body saying ought to him, would needs try to shew the same trick for the third: He took therefore the third mans glass, and dispatched it so neatly, that there remained not so much left, as to make a ruby on the nail.

Amaryllis, who in the mean time looked out at the window, turns towards them, and seeing that the Country-men had taken off their glasses, and Carme∣lins only stood full before him•• she thought they had all drunk but he: Why do you not drink Carmelin, saies she to him? you are too bashfull. Upon this the Country-men began to murmur, and Carmelin to laugh. What would these good people say, continued Amaryllis; the Lacquay who had seen Carme∣lin play the trick, went and acquainted his Mistress: She thought it a very plea∣sant one, yet asked the feigned modest man, why he would drink others mens wine? he answered, That he thought they would not drink any, and that for his part who had much need of it, he had taken it without saying ought, because he was loath to trouble any body to fill so often. Having satisfied himself, rose from the Table, and the Countrey-men had other wine. If Amaryllis excused Carmelins drunkenness, the Lacquay who had seen it did not; nor had he suffe∣red it but to see his impudence, and he made it his business to relate this action to his Comrades, to enrage them the more against him: Nor was this all they had to say to him, for they could not but be envious to see Carmelin, who was but a servant no more then themselves, speak as confidently to their Master as if he had been his companion, besides, they could not brook to see him at Table every day with Gentlemen of quality; and their greatest regret was, that they were forced to serve one that was no better then themselves, and presented him with wine as the rest. Upon this occasion they all entred into a league against him, which may teach us not to wonder so much to find envie in Kings Courts, since it can find room under the roof of a Country-Gentleman.

Being therefore at supper, the servants minded not Carmelins drink, whereas at other times they were wont to present him before he asked for it. He shak'd his head as he looked on one of the Lacquays, to tell him be wanted somewhat, but the Lacquay looking on him as seriously, shook his head as the other did: If Carmelin made any signe with his hand, the other made the like, and all the o∣ther Lacquays did the like whenever he made any addresses to them: For they were resolved to punish him now, for having drunk too much at collation. When the fruits were served up he was so drie, that he would have cry'd out for drink, but that he was loath to make any noise: He therefore rose from the Table, and went and drank at the side-Table himself. Hircan taking notice of it, said that he would have him waited on as well as the rest, and that he would not have his men think themselves his fellows, because he was neither waiting-man nor groom, but might be rank'd among Gentlemen dependants, as being received into an as∣sociation of Shepherdry with Lysis.

This troubled the servants extreamly, but for the present there was no further tumult. Adrian and Pernella sate at Hircans Table, and Fontenay, who still plaid the discontented person. After a short walk in the Garden, Lysis and Carmelin were dismissed to bed, and for Adrian and his wife, they might when they pleas'd

have done the like. Adrian had all supper time observed whether Fontenay did not out of affection drink out of the same glass as Pernella, or trod not on her foot to appoint the time. He had all the while been in she like disquiets, such was his jealousie, and as they walked, he was almost resolved to tye her to a lethern gir∣dle he wore on his doublet, lest any body might take her away from him. Ha∣ving therefore seen her a bed in the chamber assigned them, he searcht under the bed, and on the bed-stead, nay under the very feather bed and mat, behind it, and in the chimney, to see if some body were not hidden there. Finding no∣thing, he made fast the dore with a bar, and besides put a Cupboard against it; and yet he did not think himself safe enough, as fearing there might be some body locked up in a great chest which was near the window, who might force his wife, for he was not only jealous of Fontenay, but of all the other Shepherds. At last finding the Chest emptie, he laid himself by Pernella's side.

He was no sooner a bed, but Fontenay, who was resolved to make what sport he could with him, comes to the dore and sings a Court-air with a languishing voice, as if he had been ready to dye for love. Hircan helped him with his Lute, and a while after, the other Shepherds and Amaryllis, desirous to share in the sport, made an excellent consort with them. They sung all manner of songs, and that in such abundance, that Adrian and Pernella were almost stunn'd with the noise. When they had given over, Fontenay fetch'd three or four sighes, and made this complaint.

Must then another be master of her whom. I cannot be servant to? Must ano∣ther body enjoy my soul? Ah my Fairest! why do you slight me? There is such a Nymph of Diana that loves me better then her Mistress. There are those that run after me, and offer me all that I offer you; but I reserve my self for you alone. If you will grant me nothing, yet refuse not my heart, which I present unto you. Do me the favour to accept it, and assure me only by one word of your mouth, that you do it: Let your fair lips, whose motion is the rest of the ear, neatly pronounce what they ought to say to me. Though you lose nothing thereby, yet I shall think my self a great gainer.

The Shepherd Fontenay uttered a many other amorous discourses, and some∣times sung with the rest. Adrian in the mean time swore he would be gone the next day, though he left Lysis behind him; and that he would sue for reparation for the affronts done him. The more he spoke, the greater noise did they make, that it might encrease his madness that he was not heard.

This diversion having lasted above an hour, the company of Musitians per∣mitted him to sleep. The good mans ears was so stunn'd, that he thought he should be deaf, as he had been before: however these disquiets were not so great but they suffered him to take some rest. Being gotten up the next day, as he came down to see if there were anymeans to be gone, Carmelin comes out of his masters chamber, and told the other Shepherds that he was very sick. Fontenay and his companions went thither immediately, and Adrian with them, but his wife was not with him; for he had locked her in the chamber while she was a dressing. A while after, Hircan comes in; and Lysis seeing all that company, sate up in his bed and began this discourse.

The Gods have at length had compassion on me, and delivered me out of Adrians tyrannie. See they have sent me a sickness which I shall never recover. He that having sometime been a tree, ought to have hard flesh: He who hath been invulnerable, who hath quelled so many Monsters; and he lastly, who thought himself so reserved to restore the earth to its first felicitie, behold he is beaten down by the first approaches of a feaver that have assaulted him. Fear not that sayes Hircan, be of good courage; what ails you? will you have any thing to breakfast? I have an extreme head-ach replyes Lysis, but I think that when I have drunk a little wine, I shall be able to suffer my pain more patiently and more chearfully.

'Twas hereupon considered whether any wine should be given him, for Adrian

said, that if it were a feaver, it would encrease it; but Hircan having felt his pulse, said he had yet no feaver, and that he might have what he desired. Carmelin had wine ready in a little bottle, he brought him a glass of it. Lysis drank it off so hasti∣ly as if he avoided the tasting of it, and when he had done, he made such wry faces as if it had been physick, and after that, he continued his discourse thus:

My dear friends, be not amazed that I have with some trouble taken down this wine, though I gave it no long time to stay in my palate: it is because it hath such a lewd taste, that if all the drink in the world were such, you would dye for thirst rather then taste any. 'Tis not but that the Territorie of Brie is favourable e∣nough to the wines, for the wines of this Country, is in its nature good: but it is because I have made it otherwise on purpose, and having a design to dye, I put in the last night a certain poison which I had carryed about me a long time to make use of, as I have, when any occasion should present it self. And if you desire to know more particularly why I would at this present dispatch my self, it is not only to avoid going to Paris with Adrian, but also to obey the command of my Mistress. When I asked her a while since, what Laws I should observe under her Empire, she answered me roughly, I command you not to obey me any more. I had much adoe to understand this command, and therefore proposed the difficultie of it to Carmelin and Clarimond. All I could gather from their answer was that I should not obey Charite in that command which charged me not to obey her, and contradicted it self; and that I was only to regard her former commands, taking this to signifie nothing. This subtle explication had some appearance of truth and I was satisfied with it for wantof a better. But it being not in my power to speak with Charite, to have one from her own mouth, I had a day or two since, a certain inspiration which hath given me all the satisfaction I desired. Methinks I hear it still in my ear, telling me that all those who have offered at any explica∣tion of Charites command, understood nothing in it, and that there is no doubt but to have commanded me not to obey her any more, was as much as to bid me dye as soon as I could, and not be any longer subject to her laws. Let him there∣fore, that is unworthy to serve her, dye; and in his death will be found the ful∣filling of that inviolable Commandement. I command you, sayes Charite to me, that word tells me I ought to obey her, and that according to her good pleasure I should dye. That is a thing soon doon, and as for the other part which will have me to obey her no more, that will be executed when my soul and body are se∣parated. This argues not but that I must still love Carite even in the other world, but because I shall be nothing but an unprofitable shade uncapa∣ble to do her any service, it may be conceived I shall obey her no more.

Lysis having ended this discourse, began to roll his eyes in his head and to seign tremblings; so that Adrian was in a pittiful taking, and asked Carmelin whether it were true his Master had put any poison into the wine he had drunk. I am sure sayes Carmelin, that I having brought this bottle hither last night, not knowing what occasion there might be of it, Lysis put I know not what into it: But wretch that I am I was not so careful as to ask him what it was, and yet it will be said that I am partly a cause of his death, by reason of my negligence. Besides that it breaks my heart, when I think he took that mortal draught from my hand, O heavens! why would you suffer it?

Thus did Carmelin seem to be extreamly troubled according to the directions of his Master, and Adrian amazed as much as possible, turned to Hircan, en∣treating him to apply some remedy to his poor Cousin, and to send for an Apothecarie that might give him somewhat to make him cast up what he had taken.

Hircan and all the shepherds who had been acquainted by Polidor of the dissi∣mulation of Lysis, made as if they were extremely troubled; and one of them tells Adrian that he knew not of any means to give his Cousin an Antidote, though the Apothecary had brought any, because he being resolved to die, would never take it. Yet Hircan made as if he would send a Lacquay to the City for that purpose.

In the mean time Lysis having trembled a great while, pronounced these words with a dying voice. A certain benummedness begins to seize my noblest parts; I am gone my friends. Farewel Shepherds, choose out one from among you, who being the most illustrious, may give you lawes. If my advice be of any weight with you, take Philiris. I believe the Parisians that are to come, will be much astonished not to find me; but there is no remedy, I must obey my Mistress one moment, that I may obey her no more: I will execute her command without command. As for your part Cousin, you are partly the cause why I embrace death, for seeing that you would needs carry me to Paris, it should be my endeavour to dye, though I received no occasion as being desirous to end my dayes here, that I may have the honour to be buried by my com∣panions, and in spight of your teeth remain in this happy country.

This discourse ended, Lysis slides down into the bed, as if he had fainted; and after he had fetched some sighes, he turned to the other side, and spoke no more. He kept himself so much from moving and taking his breath aloud, that the shep∣herds concluded he was dead, who was the dearest friend they had in the world Carmelin casting himself on his bed, cryed out, Alas my poor Master! why would you dye in the flower of your age? you might have yet a good while enjoyed the pleasures of life. Ah! since he is dead that comforted us all in our afflictions, sayes Fontenay, it is fit I dye too. He hath shewed me the way, I am not less miserable in my Loves then he. I love cruel one whom the rela∣tion of my sufferings can make never the more favourable to me. Give me poison as thou didst thy Master, Carmelin: I will take it off presently, and lye down by him that I may dye in his company. Am I a common Executioner sayes Carmelin? Am I an administrer of poison? Had I known that the wine I had given my Master had been poisoned, do you think I would have suffered him to take it? Go seek poison somewhere else, there is no more in our bottle: I would to God there never had been any. If I cannot get poison, cryes out Fontenay, I will take a knife and cut my throat; and if I am denyed weapons, I shall find some other shift to dispatch my self: I will cast my self out at the window, I will hang my self, or swallow burning coals, and will keep in my breath till I am choaked. Take away this desperate person, sayes Hircan, you Poly∣dor and Meliantes, carry him into some chamber, where let him be chained up as a mad man. O God! how does Love let us see this day the strange effects of his mighty power.

Hircan having said this, Fontenay was conveyed away, and Adrian having himself felt his Cousin, was so simple as to think him dead. He went pre∣sently to his wife and told her this sad news. They were both extremely troubled, considering it would be said generally that they were the cause of this poor lads death, for want of having a better care of him; and were too blame to let him goe into the Country among strangers, who had so confounded his imaginati∣ons, that he dyed out of despair. Their recourse was to discharge their fury on Carmelin, telling him he was a Rogue, a Traytor, and a Mutherer, and that it was he had put poison into his Masters wine. He reproached them with being the cause of all this unhappiness, and that Lysis had confessed at his death, that he dyed to avoid going with them to Paris. Hircan came and told them it was ir∣reverent to quarrel in the place where the dead body lay; and that there was as much respect due to the dead as to things sacred. He thereupon causes all to de∣part the chamber and locked the dore, not permitting any to go in, and then takes up Adrian after this manner. Let us speak a little with reason good friend, sayes he to him: What do you mean by making such a noise here? Will you have all the world take notice that Lysis is poisoned? If that be once known, his body will be taken hence, and justice will proceed against him as a self-homicide. He will be hanged at a Gibbet by his feet: he will have a brand of infamie, and his goods will be confiscate: You that are of his kindred will get neither profit nor eredit thereby. All you have of Lysis's in your hands will be taken away, and the children will point at you as they goe to school, as being of near kin to one

that was hanged. You must therefore conceal the truth, and give out that Lysis dyed a natural death.

These considerations ••••silenced Adrian and his wife: They had some part in Lysis's inheritance, which would have fallen to them very seasonably, for they had already two children, one tabling abroad, and the other at nurse, and they were not over-rich. As for Carmelin, nothing could make him give over his complaints; these and the like were alwayes his words. I who have so faithfully assisted my master, shall now be no more thought on He that hath laboured shall go without his reward, and they that have done nothiug shall carry away all. Who hath been with Lysis night and day? Who hath fasted with him for companys sake, when there was a necessitie? Who hath broke his sleep to entertain him with love discourse? Who made clean his cloaths? Who told him fine tales? Who taught him sentences taken out of the choicest Common-places? Alas! It was his faithful Carmelin: Yet he shall inherit nothing of his. Now he is dead, he must be thrust out of dores like a Rogue. Had he but made his Will, I should have seen whether he had loved me me or no; I should have been con∣tent with what he would have left me. Must the next of kin whom he loved not at all, and to avoid whom, he is departed the world; be his absolute heirs? Tis as much as the bestowing on the murtherer the goods of him he hath murthered. Here are his freinds who pretend to be very sad for his death, but they have not the fiftieth part of my affliction. 'Tis a good author hath taught me, that if heirs have tears in their eyes, they laugh in their hearts and as for that invention of Close Mourning at the burial it was out of a distrust they might not constantly observe the same sadness in their count-nance, and that their joy might not be discovered at their eyes, which would be a thing of ill example to the peo∣ple.

Thus did Carmelin continue his complaints, which I believe he had studied, but Hircan told him that he would order things so, that his services should not be forgoten, and though his Master had ordered him neither wages, nor conside∣ration, yet should he have what would satisfie him. He bid him not trouble him∣self that his Master made no will, for that would have been only a seminary of suits, and Lysis's heirs would not have paid what had been bequeathed. To give you an example of these inconveniences, continues he, a rich man making his will, left all he had to a company of his fellow Citizens to dispose of it, and to let his right heirs have what part thereof pleased them. The heir suing the communitie, the Judge told them: Well, if you are desirous to accomplish the Will of the Testator, you must let this son have what pleaseth you. What division will you make? he shall have a tenth part; and we will have the other nine replyed the company. Take then the tenth part to your selves, sayes the Judge, and leave the rest to the heir, for he is to have what part pleaseth you. By this querck the law∣ful heir was restored to his right: but all Judges have not such good judgments as this had; so that it would be very doubtful pleading, both for the Inheritors and Legataries. What ever Lysis had left you, Sir Carmelin, Adrian would have gotten one half, and the Law another. What course shall I take then? saies Carmelin, were it not better be in hazard to get somewhat, then to be assured of nothing? What shall I stay for? wretch that I am, fortune never smiled on me in my life. Do you wonder Fortune never smiled on you, repsies Hircan, did you ever see one smile upon the wheele?

Carmelin understood not this scoffe at the first, but at length he remembred that that unconstant Goddess was represented on a wheele: He prayed Hircan not to add to his affliction by deriding his misery: and though Hircan knew he was not so sad as he pretended, yet he swore to him, that in case the heirs would give him nothing, he would satisfie him out of his own.

About this time comes in a Lacquey from Anselme, who said his Master was much troubled about Lysis, having heard nothing from him since the last time he had seen him, and that he was sent to know whether he had been so ill bred as to

return without bidding him adiew, or asking whether he would any thing to Pa∣ris. My friend, saies Hircan, tell your Master that Lysis is just now departed this world. The Lacquey would not have believed it, had not Carmelin with a sad countenance confirmed it. He therefore returned with this answer to his Master. Anselme knew not whether it was only a trick put upon him, or that it was true, so that however it were, he thought best to go immediately to Hircans. At the outer gate he met Meliantes, who acquainted him with the whole busi∣ness. To comply with the brave Shepherds that were there, Anselme counter∣feited the disconsolate as much as could be.

In the mean time Adrian and Pernella asked Hircan what he intended to do with the body, and desired it might be buried, and put into the ground: He shall not be interred to day, saies Hircan, his fellow Shepherds will not permit it, their Custom is to keep the bodies two daies at least, and then wash them to see if they are quite dead; for there are some who being only fallen into a lethargy have been thought dead, and so buried, they recovering again have died mad. Besides that you are to know that the bodies of Illustrious Shepherds and Heroes, such as your Cousin was, are never intered, that's a thing was never seen. Read all good Authors, and you will find it was never done: We think it a base thing to be thrust into the earth; you cannot do worse with those that die as Malefactors: is there any thing more ignominious then to rot, and to be eaten of worms? Is it not a despicable thing to be bestow'd into the grossest of all the Elements? 'tis better chuse the purest, as a thing more noble and more desirable. We persons of quality, have our bodies burned after our death. The fire which seems to a∣spire to the highest sphere, seems tocarry thither with it our Reliques, and that our bodies are conveyed to the Gods as well as our souls. Lysis's body shall therefore be burn'd on a heap of fagots, in the midst of my Court; but there are some necessarie ceremonies to go before Hercules was burnt alive before he went to heaven; is there any danger to burn a dead man? the bodies of all the Caesars have been so.

Adrian who understood nothing of History nor fables, was beside himself at this proposition of Hircan, and protested more then ever to apply himself to Ju∣stice for satisfaction for all the injuries he had received. He said they were to blame not to suffer his Cousin to be buried after the ordinary manner, since it did not appear he died a Heretick, nay contrary to Hircans opinion, he maintained that it was an ignominious thing to be burn'd; nay worse then to be cast into the common shore, since they were the most wicked that were condemned to the fire, as Witches, and Traitors. Philiris stood up to make good what Hircan had said, and would have brought his reasons out of the subtile Wisdom of Dr. Char∣ron; but Hircan told him he must keep within the limits of Poety, and that they ought not to engage themselves in things over serious. Adrian not being a∣ble any longer to keep in his vexation, turn'd to Anselme, and quarrelled with him in this manner; If I come to any trouble for my deceased Cousin, I declare to you now as I did then, and I shall declare to you then as I now do, that I will be righted against you. You have taken this poor youth from under my hands, and though you promised me to treat him well, yet you have brought him hi∣ther among a sort of people that have made him run quite out of his wits. 'Tis quite contrary to what you say, replies Anselme, for if they are mad as you see they are sometimes, 'tis your Cousin is in fault; they were discreet enough when he came hither, but he hath perverted them, and filled them with his corrupt opi∣nions. If I had not had a great care of my self, and kept at a distance from him, he would have brought me into the same high-way of madness: I have sufficient witness to prove that he would have perswaded me above a hundred times to turn Shepherd. These are cheats, saies Adrian, you are all of you old enough to look to your selves; 'tis not to be conceived that one young man alone should cor∣rupt so many; my cousin could not be wors in any place of the world: these are Ruf∣fians & Atheists that fear neither God nor devil; since I came into this place I have

not heard one word of our Religion. How is it that these Apostates are suffered in France, who are worse then Nero's and Julian's?

Adrian uttered a many exclamations to the same purpose, but Meliantes told him that it were not his best course to use such language, and that he had already felt the greatness of Hircans power. You are an ignorant Cockney, saies Hir∣can very roughly to him, you know not what belongs to Heroick grandeur: Know that Heroes, such as we are, have priviledges which other men have not. They live after another manner, they are clad otherwise, they speak otherwise, and they die otherwise. Adrian had an itch to ask whether they had not a Paradice by themselves, but he kept it in for fear of further offence. Consider with your self if you have a mind to see the Ceremonies we use to the dead, continued Hircan, we will not do any thing the less, or more secretly for you; if you will not appear there, hide your self where you please; nay the truth is, you are too profane to be present at such sacred Funerals.

This discourse made Adrian and his wife retire to their Chamber and in the mean time Hircan opens Lysis's, whereinto the whole company entred, not ex∣cepting Fontenay, who having overcome his despair, thought it sufficient to be sad. Carmelin went and cast the sheet over Lysis's head, who discovered no more motion then before; and the Gardiner having brought such flowers and sweet hearbs as could be found in that season, all the Shepherds cast of them upon the dead body.

Hereupon comes in Amaryllis singing an aire had been purposly made on the death of the Shepherd. Her voice was so sweet and languishing, that Adrian thought at first she had sung some good prayer, or hymne; but when he under∣stood the sence of what she sung, and the other Shepherds answering her, he was stark mad, because the subject of it was some amorous passion. See here my duck, among what a sort of people we are fallen instead of praying to God for the soul of the poor dead party or sending for Priests to do it, they go even into his Chamber singing French aires whereas the hymnes of the Church are in La∣tine. In the mean time I doubt not but my Cousin hath more need of good pray∣ers, for he died without confession.

The Musick having lasted a good while, he still complained, and in the mean time Carmelin being come out of the Chamber for more branches of Cypress which Hircan wanted, a Lacquey met him, and fell on him in these words; Thy glory is now in the dust, poor snake, thou shalt play the fool no more, thou hast lost the master for whose sake thou wert entertained every where. I shall now see thee a poor rogue again. Carmelin was so peaceable a man that he made no return again to these abuses, but fell a weeping to shew how great his grief was; but yet in himself he took comfort, when he considered that those who domi∣neered over him, as if he had no dependance of any man, would be one day de∣ceived, when they should find Lysis still alive. He went therefore to the Gar∣den and gathered some Cypress, and carried it quietly to quietly to Hircan. who strewed it all about the Chamber, according to the custom of the Ancients, who held that Tree mournfull.

Carmelin hereupon reflecting on what he had heard Hircan say, that Lysis's body should be burn'd and not interr'd, fell into strange disquiets; for as to the effecting his Masters designe, it was necessary he should be interr'd, to the end that there being nothing to detain Adrian in Bris, he might return to Paris, and Lysis get out of the Sepulcher in the night, and go into some private place, whence he might afterwards return to his former way of life; whereas on the contrary, should they burn him, the poor man knew not whether he were not oblig'd to declare that he was not dead, lest they should commit such a cruelty as to burn him alive. At last he resolved to be patient a while, lest he should have incurr'd the displeasure of his Master, who would have been angry to find him no better a keeper of his secrets, so that he resolv'd not to declare the truth, till extream necessity should require it.

While he was thus considering, Philiris being gotten up into a chair on his knees, and leaning his hands on the back of it, began to hem, as one that prepares him∣self for a long speech. All the Shepherds sate down knowing his intention was to make a Funeral Oration on the death of Lysis, and every one keeping silence, he spoke thus.

I am not able to tell you, sad and disconsolate Shepherds, what we have left us we can call good, if we consider what we have lost, unless it be the reflection of our memory on the content and satisfaction we had to possess the incompa∣rable Lysis; for we are rather to continue our thanks to the Gods that we enjoy'd him some time, then censure them that they have now taken him from us. They are possibly our crimes have caus'd it, in that we deserve not to have among us so rare a Masterpiece, to whose excellence heaven and nature had contributed e∣qually. Whether we consider the features of his countenance, and the proportion of his body, or represent to our selves the delicacy of his disposition, and the excellency of his mind, there was nothing the earth could be worthy of. Nevertheless this common mother of men being desirous to enjoy him eter∣nally, had obtained of Jupiter that he might be received into the quality of Trees, which she nourishes by their roots; but the sage Hircan opposed the de∣cree, and delivered the illustrious Shepherd out of captivity; which though it was honourable, yet could not but be inconvenient. But heaven not being long able to be without its own work, hath prevailed so far as that it hath taken him hence, and it might be easily judg'd it was resolv'd to have him, since it was the decree of fate he should expose himself to all manner of dangers to deliver a La∣dy out of the Prison of an Enchanter, though his principal profession was far from that of a Souldier, Notwithstanding all this, 'twas no violent death snatcht him from us; but methinks the first fruits of those delights he now en∣joyes, should not have been so burdensome to him; a natural death came and gently closed up his eyes, and hath not broken nor cut the knots which fastned his soul and body together, but hath most dexterously and without any violence untyed them.

These words moved Lysis so far, that he almost forgot he was departed. He was ready to speak, and to tell the Shepherds they were to blame to say his death was natural, since it was violent. He thought that if it was not said he had poi∣soned himself, his hopes would have been frustrated, and he should deserve no∣thing of Charite. He never imagined it would have been ignominious to him if it should be said he had dispatched himself. The agitation of his mind was so great, that his body moved a little, which Meliantes perceiving, acquainted the Oratour with it; but they perswaded him it was an illusion, so that Philiris pro∣ceeded in his Oration.

I should then have told you, Pastoral Assembly, that it was necessary Lysis should die, since it was the pleasure of heaven, but yet there was no considera∣tion should oblige us to receive his death otherwise then with the greatest afflicti∣ons that men are capable of. There's none among us ought for ten years be guil∣ty of the least smile, and if any such thing happen it shall be a forfeit. How can we disclaim sadness? since love himself, though a God, is not exempted; and I believe he will no more go naked as he was wont to do, because he must now put on mourning: Nor indeed could he not but be extreamly obliged to this Shep∣herd, as who made it his daily employment, the dilatation of his Empire while he lived, and at his death commended and consign'd his soul into his hands to be conducted into that place, where all faithfull Lovers are eternally rewarded. I should not tell you all these things, did I not herein obey custom, who will have it so; for I conceive you are all ready to do Lysis all that is due to him, without any excitation from my words. However I shall presume to desire you against to morrow to prepare your selves for the solemnity of his Funerals, then I shall have more to say then I have now, and then I shall make a particular relation of all his perfections, and the noblest adventures of his Loves, not for your sakes

who are acquainted with them; but to satisfie such as are strangers to them that may happen to be then present, and would be glad to understand the life of the Heroick Shepherd, whose designe was to introduce among us the felicity of the first age.

Philiris here ended his discourse, whereof Lysis missed not a word, being ex∣treamly elevated with the honour they did him. Hircan caused all the Shep∣herds to leave the Chamber, and left Carmelin alone to watch the dead body. They dined a while after, and they brought him what he wanted; but though there was not too much for himself, yet was he so charitable, as having lockt the dore, to present his Master with half, who confessed he never had a better sto∣mack then since he was dead.

Anselme returned to Orontes's, there to give an account of Lysis's pleasant ad∣venture, and to satisfie all as to the report they might have received of his death. In the mean time Adrian and Pernella would needs eat apart, and not go any more among the Shepherds, whom they took for excommunicated and abomi∣nable people: Their resolution was not to return till they had seen their Cou∣sins body put into the ground in spight of all Hircans oppositions; though they had business that much required their hastening to Paris.

The day being spent in divers entertainments, as every one was pleased to pass it away, it was thought fit Carmelin should lie in the Chamber where the dead body lay, though he seem'd to be somewhat unwilling, and the rest were dispo∣sed into their ordinary Chambers. Lysis seeing himself alone with his faithfull Carmelin, talked with him a good while, and would needs know what was gene∣rally said of his death. Having understood that every one bewailed it, he be∣lieved it might be some affliction to Charite; and as for the consulation was had about the burning of his body, it troubled him more then all. At last he desi∣red Carmelin to bind a faggot about with cloathes, and to put it upon the heap in his stead. Carmelin promised to do whatever lay in his power. The morning was not far spent, but Orontes and all his house came to Hircans, being extreamly desirous to see the issue of this feigned departure of Lysis. Montenor and Cla∣rimond were also present, the report it seems having spread so far. All the Shep∣herds were already entred Lysis's Chamber, when Adrian comes thither once more to relate his afflictions, telling them they were to blame, not to have bestow∣ed Christian burial on the poor deceased party. Clarimond comes in just as he was speaking, so that having known him to be the man he had spoken with in the fields, and finding him more staid and discreet then any of the rest, he entreated him to stand his friend. Clarimond who was of a very good disposition, went and spoke softly to Hircan, telling him, that he knew not what pleasure they took by persecuting the poor Citizen in that manner, and that he was sufficiently abus'd. You may perceive well enough, saies Hircan, that it is his cousin Lysis hath begun, we have only promoted the business a little; when an humour took him to coun∣terfeit himself dead, would you have us say immediately that there was no such thing? Not so neither, replies Clarimond, the humour was too pleasant to let it die; but let it now have an end.

Hircan made no other answer to that, then with a ••od approve what he had said; and seeing that Charite was come with the rest into the room, he led her by the hand toward the Shepherds bed, and said to her, Consider fair Charite, what are the effects of your cruelty: You have given this illustrious Shepherd a Com∣mand without Command, which hath been the cause of his death: you are to be commended that you are come hither, to water his body with your tears: It shall be washed with no other; but yet, O cruel one, before you darken the fair Suns of your eyes with the clowdes of sadness, be so favourable as to dart some of their rayes on this breathless body. It may possibly 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that since you have had the power to make it die, you may by the same power revive it.

Lysis perceived by this discoutse, that his Mistress was there, and being unwil∣ling it should be reproacht to her in time to come, that she was not able to raise

up her Lover, he resolved to return immediately into the world in her presence. He therefore rais'd up his head by little, and having uncovered it with one hand, he rub'd his eyes a long time together, as if he had had a deal of trouble to get them open.

The Shepherds cry'd out presently a miracle, a miracle, a miracle of Chari∣te's eyes, this beauty hath not only restored life to Lysis, but even to all his friends who would have died with him. Let us give her thanks, let us adore her, and e∣rect Temples to her as a Goddess. On your knees Shepherds before this fair one, submit your selves to her. Charite seeing that they came to embrace her knees and kiss the border of her garment, was so bashfull that she repented she had come along with her Mistress, and would have run away, had not Hircan held her very fast.

Lysis beheld her with a languishing look, and after a while said to her, Is it you fair Charite that commands me from the other world after you had sent me thi∣ther? What new resolution have you taken? Will you have me stay and lan∣guish here for ever? Do not you imagin any such thing, saies Hircan, 'tis to re∣store you to happiness, that you are restored to life. O! if it be so, saies Lysis, how much better is it for me to be on earth, then to be in hell, or the Elisian fields, whence I am now come, and where I have seen wonderfull things.

Adrian, who was in the Chamber with the rest to see what should be done, was extreamly overjoy'd to hear Lysis speak. he went and cry'd out to his wife that their Cousin was still alive; but Polidor told him that he was mistaken if he thought that Lysis had not been dead at all, and that he had not seen him depart, but that he was raised again both through the charms of Charite, and those of Hircan. Adrian who understood nothing of such miracles, answered not a word, to avoid further dispute, but with Pernella returned to Lysis's Cham∣ber.

The Shepherd would have risen to have cast himself at Charite's feet; but they told him he were better keep his bed a little, because a man could not die without being very sick, and that there was still some reliques of the disease. However he lifted himself up a little higher then he was before, and having a pillow under his head, he began to speak thus to all that were present:

It is but reasonable, dearly beloved companions, that I tell you from what place I come, and that I give you an account of those things I have seen. My soul was no sooner out of my body, but Live came and seiz'd it to carry it to Hell: I would not have my Cousin Adrian nor yet his wife, whom I see there in a cor∣ner, start back at that word; they are not to think that going to hell in the ex∣pressions of Shepherdry is to be damn'd, as it may be they have heard their Par∣son teach; but it signifies only translation into the other world, which is called hell, because it is lower then this. It is certain that in that place there is a prison for those that are found guilty of any crime, but that is called Tartarus. All men are obliged to go into those subterraneous places to do homage to Pluto, who is the King thereof, unless it happen by especial favour to some to be deified assoon as they are dead, and that some God plunge them into a river to purifie them, as Venus did her son Aeneas This honour being not due to me, Love carried me away into hell; for you are to observe that though they are the good or bad Angels which do this Office for all other mortals, yet this little God did it for me, because the fates never commended me into the custody of any other Ge∣nius then him. When we had passed down through an obscute valley, we came to the banks of the River Acheron, where Love left me, and I met with the Fer∣ryman, who was going to transport certain souls: I would needs have gone with them into the boat, but he thrust me back with all his might, saying he would not carry me over unless I paid him his fair before-hand. I have no other met∣tal then that which is within me, that is my self: thou feest there are remain'd in me certain grains of the first age, and that by my vertues I have guilt the iron of the present. Consider if I may not be able to serve thee in somewhat may

recompence thy pains; for as to the pieces of brass which others give, I have not brought it with me. All this would have signified nothing had not there been a charitable soul that had a double piece, and said it was for us both, considering she had no further use of money. When I had crossed over and was got ashore, I went to Hell-gate, where Cerberus could do me no hurt, because he was at that time tyed up with a great iron chain. Being come into the midst of that great Palace, I perceived all the other souls flying before me, whereat I was extreamly troubled, for I would have been glad to have discoursed with them, and have asked them how they passed away their time in that place. At length there were two more confident then the rest, who took me and lead me before the three Judges to whom they represented, that Pluto's Kingdom was decaying, if there were not some order taken; for whereas a soul incur'd greater torment if it en∣deavoured to avoid the darkness, I had at once brought so much light with me, that I had frighted all the inhabitants of that low Region. I well perceive the reason of it, saies Radamanthus, 'tis the soul of a Lover, whose fire is as pure and as clear as the Sun, it must be plunged into those frozen Rivers, wherein we quench the flames of Ambition, Avarice, and other passions. Let it not be sent thither, replies Aeacus, it deserves far otherwise, we were unjust if we did it: You have not maturely considered the business. Minos was of the same opinion, who ha∣ving a long time consulted with his brethren, it was ordered I should be convey∣ed to the Elysian fields. I saw, as I passed by Tartarus, where the sinfull are so tormented, that their cryes are heard a league off. Tantalus is there, Ixion is also there, and a many others that have offended the Gods. After I had tra∣velled a great way with a spirit that was my guide, I saw the aire grew by little and little more clear, and in a moment I found my self in a Countrey which had light enough to discover the excellent things that were in it. There was a Me∣dow cheequered with an infinity of flowers, which could not be seen otherwise then by travelling over all the Countrys of the world, at the end of that there was a Grove which had as many different trees, and there I met with a many happy souls who began to receive me with complements for the satisfaction they found in my company. I had not left my civility behind me here, so that I answered them in as courteous expressions. They were all clad in white, and their ordina∣ry recreation was to recite Verses, to play on the Lute or the Gitarre, and not at Cards nor Dice, which was the diversion of evil spirits. As they were shewing me all their pleasures, it came into my mind to ask them why we were called by no other name then Souls, and why we were put in the feminine gender, since di∣vers among us had been sometimes men? There was one going to answer me, when I perceived Love hovering over my head, who took me in his arms, and carryed me so swiftly through the air, that the greatness of the agitation soon ••ulled me a∣sleep, so that I found my self in this place ere I thought on't.

Lysis having thus ended his discourse, which was a knot of lyes invented on the sudden, all admir'd the fruitfulness of his conceptions. Philiris told him, that as to the doubt he was in, that we were but souls only after our death, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was not because were were women rather then men, but that not being of one sex more then another, we had been called by a name used in the feminine gender, without any designe. Be it as it will, saies Lysis, but I am glad that my soul is feminine, for then it shall be of the same sex as the object of its love; since it is the only desire of the Lover to be changed into the thing loved. See fair Charite how great the affection I bear you is, continued he, nay when I was in the other world, I had no other regret, but that I had left this too soon, and had not staid to see you, that you might not have doubted but that you were the cause of my death: But fate hath laid this obligation on me, that if I dyed not in your pre∣sence, it was in your presence that I was raised up again.

Charite knew not what answer to make to these fine words, so that when she perceived Hircan loosen his hold somewhat, she made but one stride of the cham∣ber, into the gallery, and as she went down, being followed by no body, she

considered of her returning to Orontes's to avoid further abuse.

Adrian in the mean time was extremely comforced at the arrival of those who were come in last, who seemed to him to be of more staid minds then the Shep∣herds. He therefore approaches his Cousin, and asked him whether he would not return to Paris; whereat the Shepheard was extreamely troubled, imagining his dissimulation had been all to no purpose, and had not lasted long enough to send away that troublesome Guardian. As he was studying what to answer, Hir∣can prevented him, saying, he was too importunate in disturbing a poor man, who was but newly returned to life, and that it was sufficient if Lysis had so much strength as to get up and walk about the house.

This check roughly delivered, made Adrian retire, and Hircan having promis'd Lysis on his word, that his Cousin should not dispose of him as he pleased, en∣treated him to rise and come to dinner with the company. He was at that time in so good an humour, that he suffered Carmelin to help him put on his cloaths. Hircan had retained to dine with him all that were in the house. As they were ready to sit down, Lysis was like to make an ill meal of it, because he saw not Charite whom he had sought all over the house. He thought the expressions of Love he had made to her, were come to nothing: but Angelica having over∣heard some of her complaints, would give him some comfort, making him believe that the reason he found not Charite there; was not because that she had left him out of disdain, but that Leonora had sent her to Orontes's about some bu∣siness.

On the other side Adrian, who imagined his Cousin would be no better then he was before, had not quitted his desire to carry him away; and his recourse was to Anselm though he had quarrelled with him, but a little before.

He asked if he might not be permitted to be gone; to which Anselm replyed, if you are in such hast you may go your wayes presently: but as for Lysis I pro∣mise you, that as I brought him hither, so I will bring him hence. Within 15 dayes at farthest I must be at Paris, there being some occasions that call me thi∣ther. It is not so long that there can happen any great alterations in your Cou∣sins mind, that you should much fear. Adrian was loath to subscribe to this, but Clarimond interposing, advised him to accept what was proposed. He was forced to it out of the good opinion he had of that Gentlemans faithfulness and sinceritie. However, since it was too late to get to Paris that night, he deferred his journey till the next day, and Hircan being acquainted with his resolution, made him very welcom, because he gave him that further time to make sport with Lysis.

While all this was working, Carmelin knew not whether he ought to be mer∣ry or sad. As soon as his Master was gotten up, he went to see Lysetta, to whom he had not proffered his service since he had Lysis's permission. His Masters death had taken away all such thoughts. The first proposition he made thereof to her, she only laughed at him for his pains, so that he was very ill satisfied. The worst on't was, that he durst not declare it to Lysis, because he would have given him no other advice then to play the mad Lover like Fontenay. He could not sing to entertain her with Serenades, and could play upon no other Instrument then a Flute. Besides he was a man that would not abate any thing of his rest, to ob∣serve your Lovers laws. He returned therefore with these disquiets to dine with persons of honour and qualitie, as he was wont to do.

As they were washing before they sate down, Hircans man acquainted him that there was below an ill favoured fellow, and as ill accounted, who had a great desire to come up. How came he to thee sayes Hircan, said he nothing of any business he had with me? When I saw him alight, replies the man, I asked him what he would have. I am lately come out of Champagn, replyed he, and desi∣ring to return thither again, I am gotten out of the way, so that I have hi∣therto in vain sought out an Inne for to bait in, in these Quarters. You are very ill directed, said I to him, Do you think to lodge here? Do you not know that

this is a Gentlemans house, and not an Inne? Notwithstanding these words, he sticked not to tye his horse up to a Lattice and give him some hay, which he ga∣thered up and down near the stable; and very faintly made this reply, Since it is a Gentlemans house, it is better for me then if it were an Inne. I am every day honourably received at Princes tables, and therefore your Master will be glad of my company, and I desire you only to acquaint him that Musardan is here, that name is sufficiently known all over Europe; they that know it not must needs be such as have not forgotten their pap. Having told me so I thought best not to dispute with him any further, but rather to make haste up to acquaint you with his coming: but because he followed me very closely, I entreated him to stay at the stair-foot▪ as I believe he does still. You will find it is some Master Fool I warrant you, sayes Clarimond. Do not say so, replyes Lysis, art thou come hither again to spight me, and quarrel with all good people that shall come to me? If this Musardan be he I mean, he is one of the most excellent men of this age. I will go and entertain him upon your commendation, sayes Hircan. He went presently to this man, who had a cloak and breeches of black Serge, with a doublet of Dowlass, foul enough in conscience, so that the person seemed not to be of any great qualitie.

This Musardan seeing Hircan coming to him, made a low congie, and saluted him with this complement, which he had studied before.

I crave your pardon Sir, said he to him, that I have presumed to give you a visit so privately; for I beleive, that since you may not at any time see those labours of my mind which I have put forth a while since, I may also be permitted to see you.

He thought he had done wonders in discovering himself by this discourse, that he was an Author of the Times; but Hircan made him this return. 'Tis true indeed Sir, that you have a priviledge to visit when you please all those that have seen your excellent Works, and that they are every one obliged to entertain you once at least, so that if you will you need never eat at home; and I must ac∣knowledg that though the Books I think you speak of, never came to my acquain∣tance, yet shall I be one of those who think themselves not the least honoured to see you at their table.

Though this answer was full of secret Satyre, and touched this Parasite with his impudence, yet he resolved to accept what was proffered him. He told Hir∣can also that he was out of his way, but that he was happy in the misfortune that had procured him so noble an acquaintance. Hircan without any farther ceremonie, desired him to walk up, and sent a Lacquey to the stable to see his horse provided for. When he was come into the dining room, he was somewhat put out of countenance to find so many there. Here is a man knows you very well by reputation, sayes Hircan to him, pointing at Lysis; he hath read the Books you have put out. This is then the Musardan I spoke of, sayes Lysis pre∣sently, let me embrace him, let me kiss him; he is my dear friend though he say nothing of Shepherdry in all his books. In saying this, Lysis embraced him about the neck, and Musardan told him he was much obliged to him that he had vouchsafed to look on his Works. After this Lysis turned to his companions, and said to them, run Shepherds and salute this excellent wit. There are above eighteen books that bear his name, and they are all Love stories. O the rare in∣genuity! cryed out Phyliris, he teaches us to govern our selves amidst the violent flames of that noblest passion, which seizeth our souls. Why are not all that live in France like him! Ignorance should then be banished the Kingdom.

The other Shepherds made some such like exclamations in saluting him, so that it heightned him into an insupportable vanitie, and made him believe he had already obtained the general approbation. Hircan commanded a cessation of these complements, and that all should sit down to table according to their seve∣ral qualities. Lysis whose memory was very much taken up with the customs of Antiquitie, said he did not think fit they should sit all about the table, but only on one side, and leave the other for the Steward and waiters. He wished also

they were laid on beds to eat, and not sit on chairs; and his design was that they should not go to the table, but that it should be brought to them, and taken away when they had done. 'Tis very convenient indeed to lie on a bed and eat, says Hircan, for a man hath this advantage at least, that if he be drunk, he is in a good place to sleep. But if we should now get Workmen to make tables and beds as Lysis would have them, we might starve before they were done. Wherefore let us now fall to dinner, another time we'l think on't.

Lysis made no reply at all, because he insensibly fell into another thought. He thought Musardan to be a very good Author, and was in doubt whether it were not better give him his History to compose then to Philiris, of whose elo∣quence he had experience only in his discourse, and had no tryal of his Elegance, which is a thing requisite to write well. At length, to look further into the man, then he could discover by his books, he thought it not amiss to ask him whether he had not seen the Letter he had sent to Paris, directed to all Poets and Roman∣cists. Musardan replyed, that his friend the Fabulistus had spoke to him of a Letter sent from an unknown Shepherd, but that he had not shewed it him. Then it seems you are not come hither purposely to see me, replyes Lysis, and as con∣cerning that Fabulistus whom you speak of, though he be as great a Poet and Ro∣mancist as your self, as his works speak him; yet it seems according to what you say, he thought very indifferently of my Letter, since he hath not communicated it. By this I perceive you are not of that company of Parisians who are to come hither and turn Shepherds; you should have shewn others the way, and you give me occasion to remit of that good esteem I had of you. You see all that are about me clad in white, they are Shepherds, such as I would have you to be also.

The Shepherds to comply with Lysis, confessed they were all of that happy condition he attributed to them; and to make the better sport, they fell into the most extravagant discourses they could imagine. Their talk was like that of their late comedies, unless it were that they changed their stile oftener, and that the same Shepherd spoke sometimes by Hyperboles, and sometimes Gallimathias. Phi∣liris, who read bad books as well as good, had had the patience to read Mu∣sardans, and picked out the ridiculous absurdities; so that having a good memo∣ry, he spoke only in the expressions of that Author, which was the best humour of all. 'Twas not to give his words any other sense, they were ridiculous enough of themselves, without any addition. Musardan was nothing moved at it, whe∣ther he took no notice of it, or was proud to hear himself quoted.

As for Fontenay, after he had a long time beheld Pern••lla with a languishing eye, he renewed his discourses of the desperate Lover, whereat Adrian and she were not well pleased; but yet suffered all, as being fully resolved to be gone the next day. Clarimond having observed the divers postures of those Shepherds, thought them such as he could not bear with, so that he was not able to contain himself any longer. He told Hircan that he thought their design was to play the fools perpetually at this house, but that it was now time to break up the enchantment, since they both abused those that knew them and that knew them not; and that for conclusion of the Comedie, Lysis must be convinced of his er∣rours. What errours doest thou mean? sayes Lysis: ever since I have known you I have done nothing else but told you of them, replyes Clarimond, I mean those imaginations which the Romances have infused into you. Its now time you shake hands with them. Thou art then it seems the same Clarimond who contemnest the inventions of good Authors, replyes Lysis, I am glad Musardan is come hi∣ther so seasonably. He shall maintain his companions quarrel and his own. I have often promised thee that when we met with any able wit of the age, I would give thee leave to say what ever thou canst against the books which thou doest so much hate, that thou mayest be confuted and confounded by one that can tell how to answer thee. I do now take you at your word, sayes Clarimond. I will set upon all your Fabulists both ancient and modern, we cannot choose a fitter time then

now that we are in the most honourable Assembly in the world. For my part I take Anselm for our Judge. Be it so sayes Lysis, he is an indifferent person, he is not prejudiced for either partie.

Every one having heard this controversie which was newly risen, all endeavou∣red to advance it by approving it, that that excellent resolution of a fair and regu∣lar dispute, might not be lost. Clarimond endeavoured nothing so much as to shew his reasons why he hated Romances and Poetrie: and as for Musardan, they bid him prepare himself to answer what might be said against his Profession He was so vainglorious as to promise full satisfaction in all things: and as for Anselm, though he would not confess himself able to discharge what was said upon him, yet was he forced to undertake it. They dispatched dinner out of eagerness after the pleasure to hear the pleading of two such famous cases as now presented themselves.

The End of the Twelfth Book.