The glory of God's revenge against the bloody and detestable sins of murther and adultery express'd in thirty modern tragical histories : to which are annexed, The triumphs of friendship and chastity in some illustrious examples / by Thomas Wright ...

THE GLORY OF Gods Revenge Against the Licentious and Dete∣stable Sin of ADULTERY.

HIST. I. Castrucchio and Gloriana.

The Count of Varini marries with Gloriana a young Gen∣tlewoman of incomparable Beauty, contracted to Castruc∣chio; Varini apprehends Castrucchio in Bed with Glo∣riana and kills him, cuts off his Head and makes her drink out of his Scull, and afterwards eat up his Heart, who the next morning was found dead in her Bed.

IN the former Book thou hast seen (Courteous Rea∣der) the dreadful Judgments of God, upon those wretched Sinners, who have been guilty of that cry∣ing Sin of Murther, and in this I will present thee with the miserable Examples of Adultery; a Crime so odious to God and Man, that whatever gentle names we may gloss it over with, hath been always attended with sad and lamentable Consequences. It has been the Opinion of some, that the Forbidden Fruit in the midst of the Garden, which God Almighty by his especial

Command so strictly prohibited, and the Devil tempted Eve withal, was no other than Carnality; what Ex∣ceptions this may admit of, I shall not now dispute; but the great mercy of God, hath since taken pity of our Frailties, and not only permitted that pleasure but sanctified it in Paradise by the solemn Union of Matri∣mony, taken from it all filthiness, and made our very Lust, pure and immaculate. Chastity and Lust, are so profess'd Enemies to one another, that they can never live together in the same Subject, no more than day and night, light and darkness; the first is a bright and re∣splendent Vertue, the other a raging and devouring Vice: Chastity makes us Glorious as the Angels, Lust de∣form'd as Devils; it is like the black foyl to the spark∣ling Diamond, or the dark shade to a beautiful Image. Love is the Intelligence that gently moves the Soul from innocent Desires to chast Embraces, but Incontinence is the Devils Incendiary, which first fires us with unlawful Flames, and then violently hurries us over all the sacred Boundaries of Modesty, Justice and Religion, to satisfie the impious Cravings of one burning Lust. I could here inlarge on the sacred Institution of Marriage in Paradise, he noble Royalties it is endowed with, and how Adam, no sooner beheld the light and glory of the Sun, but he saw the brightness and illustrious Beauty of a Wife; how Chastity is as unlimited as Lust, and that we have as many glorious Examples of the one, as Pro∣digies of the other; that the name of Iudith is yet fam'd by her Continence, whilst the memory of Lais is pre∣served by her Ignominy; that the insatiate Messalina, was not more the scandal, than the chast Lucretia the honour of her Sex, who fl••w from the hot Embraces of the lustful Tarquin, to the cold arms of Death for refuge, her purer Soul now loath'd that Body which had suffered the pollutions of the Ravisher, and with an undaunted courage opened the door to death, and lodg'd the fa∣tal Steel, in her yet unspotted Breast. But I should expa∣tiate too far, thou shalt here find variety of Examples in

the following Histories, a Chast Imbrigis and a Lascivious Helda, as Loose, as her Sister Continent; where I hope the beautiful Character of the one, will attract thy imita∣tion of her Vertue, and the deformity of Vice in the other deter thee from the Commission of that Sin, which often imprints it's own punishment on the Offender, (Viz. the Venereal Disease) but if he is so happy to escape the Brand of his own Iniquity here, the Terrors of an evil Consci∣ence, will be his constant Executioner, as the Devil his Tormentor hereafter.

But I proceed to the History.

AT Venice, the Beauty of Italy, which is the Garden of Europe, in the Reign of Leonardo Do∣nato that noble Duke of Venice, famous for ba∣nishing the Jesuits, and opposing the intrusions of the Popish See, and fulminations of Paulus Quintus in the just defence and maintenance of the Priviledges and Prerogatives of the Seigniory, lived Pedro Giovanno Count of Varini. He was a Gentleman no less Eminent for the many Services he had done the State, than ad∣mir'd for his Virtues; He was honoured with the Title of Count, but much more illustrious in the rich Endow∣ments of a noble Mind; to all which was added a large Estate and plentiful Revenues, which gave Lustre and Support to the Royalty of his House and Grandeur of his Family. Varini was now arrived to the sixtieth year of his Age, and being desirous to retire from the Trou∣bles and Cares, that constantly attend publick Employ∣ments, left the crowded Streets of Venice for the quiet and recess of a Country Life, and presently taking leave of his Friends, went to his Castle at St. Brien about 30 Italian miles distant from Venice, where he passed his time in the pleasant Diversion of those Rural Sports he was ever delighted in. It happened one day, as he was a∣broad in the Field with several other Gentlemen who were his daily Companions in his Country Recreations, his Falkner discovered a large Heron upon the Wing

whereupon Varini immediately ordered him to try the courage of his Hawk if he durst fasten on so bold an Ene∣my. After several bickerings in the Air, to the great satisfaction of the Spectators, the Conflict remain'd doubtful, till at last the Hawk impatient in the Conquest of his stubborn Adversary, redoubled his force and struck him to the ground, who fell into the Garden of Seignior Berinto, whither they all hasted to the assistance of the Hawk and seizure of their Game. Berinto understand∣ing that the Count of Varini, with several other Gentle∣men of Quality were gon into his Garden, followed af∣ter, where he found them taking up the Heron yet alive though disabled; all the Company highly commended the courage and strength of his Hawk, which Varini seemed very much pleased at, and being invited into the House by Berinto was nobly treated, where he first saw the matchless Gloriana, to whom with all the Expressions of Respect and Kindness, he presented the Heron, which she with equal Grace and Courtesie received.

Berinto was a Gentleman of Honourable Extract, whose great Grandfather had been Duke of Venice, and he himself a considerable Merchant there, but having suf∣fered great Losses at Sea and particularly in one Ship, whose Cargo was valued at near 100000 l. which was ta∣ken by the Corsairs of Argiers, in the Wars between the Turks and Venetians, he left off Merchandizing and betook himself to the happy and peaceful solitude, of his Coun∣try-House at Vernon a League from St. Brien, where he spent his days free from the dangerous blasts of incon∣stant Fortune; He had one Daughter named Gloriana the Paragon of her Sex, in whom Virtue and Beauty were equally eminent, and being now of the age of 21 by the consent and approbation of her Father, was con∣tracted to Seignior Castrucchio, a young Gentleman of a neighbouring Village, who being lately returned from his Travells in France and England, desired no other repose of his future Happiness, but what he should find in the soft Embraces of the Beautiful Gloriana. But alass in

vain do we seek for a perfect and establish'd Happiness amongst the fading Joys of this uncertain World, in the midst of our greatest security we are on the Brink of Danger; and those Blessings we catch at are but the Shadows of what we mistake them for, and either de∣lude us in our vain pursuit, or ruine us in the fatal en∣joyment of them. Varini having pay'd his Thanks to Be∣rinto for his generous Reception and splendid Entertain∣ment, took his leave of him, inviting him over to St. Bri∣en, and telling him, that as such a fortunate Accident had made him happy in his Acquaintance, he would stu∣dy all Opportunities to improve it, and he hoped they who were so near Neighbours, should be no longer Strangers to one another in their Friendship and Con∣versation. Berinto promised in few days to wait upon him at his Castle in return of the great Honour he had now done him, and that though the sense of his Obli∣gations to him, was beyond the power of his present Gratitude, yet he would never be wanting in the ac∣knowledgment of that debt he was not able to discharge. Night coming on the Company parted, and Varini retired to St. Brien, where being alone his thoughts began to re∣flect on the Beauty of Gloriana, the elegant composure of her Body and the excellent perfections of her mind, which had now made so violent an Assault and deep impressi∣on on his Heart, that his blood which had been chill'd by the cares and sollicitudes of sixty Winters, now grew warm and wanton, his Pulse beat vigorously, and all parts grew active and sprightly, so powerful is the strong im∣pulse of Love.

Ten days after Berinto came over to make his Com∣plement to the Count, who received him with all the de∣monstrations of Friendship and Respect, and after he had entertain'd him with a sight of his Castle, the rari∣ties of his Closet, and the fragrant Curiosities of his Gar∣den, he retir'd into a shady Arbour covered with Iessa∣mines, where after a pleasant Discourse on the great ad∣vantages of a true and sincere Friendship, he began an

excellent Harangue, in commendation of Love and the happiness of Marriage, above the Care and Solitude of a single Life, which Berinto assented to, saying, he much won∣dred that a Person of his Honour and Quality, who wanted no∣thing to render him compleatly happy, had never yet tasted the Ioys of Wedlock, which he had so passionately extoll'd. The Count told him, Amongst all the Beauties of Italy, he but once saw that incomparable Creature worthy of his Affections; And pray my Lord, said Berinto, what then could obstruct the noble designs of your Love? That Question saies Varini, My dear Berinto, you best can Answer. It is Gloriana, the matchless Gloriana I love, she alone is the Lady of my Affections, at whose feet I would prostrate my self and all the Titles of Ho∣nour or Fortune I am Master of, to receive the name of Husband from her, more glorious and valuable to me than the Purple Robes of aspiring Senators, or the sparkling Diadems of Eastern Monarchs. Berinto was not a little surpriz'd to hear Varini with so much ardency of Affection, commend his Daughter Gloriana, nor did he presently know what answer to return; the Ambition of seeing his Daughter so great a Lady, and that breach of Faith which would ne∣cessarily attend it, rais'd two different Passions in his Breast, and so far distracted his Thoughts, that Varini might easily read the labours and troubles of his mind in his discomposed Countenance and profound Silence. At last having something recovered himself, he thus replyed, My Lord, the Transcendency of your Goodness, and the noble offer you please to make my Daughter, is so great an Honour to my Family, that I, who am highly sensible of my own demerits, can receive it with no less Transports of joy and satisfaction than the Captive does his Freedom, or the con∣demned Criminal a gracious Reprieve.

The next day, Varini returned Berinto's Visit and made his first Address to Gloriana, who being acquain∣ted by her Father, with the great professions of Kindness, the Count had made to him, and his m••re particular Respect to her, gave him a reception which rather show∣ed her deference and regard to his Quality, than any de∣light

she received from the Courtship of a Lover. However the Count so vigorously pursued his Amours, that in a short time he absolutely gained the Father, and had been no less successful over the Affections of the Daughter, had not her pre-engagement to Castrucchio, obstructed the Conquest of his Flames, who was fully resolved, that no power should be able to rescind that sacred Tye, by which they were so firmly linkt toge∣ther: Nor should all those empty Titles of Honour, now laid at her Feet, tempt her heart to Treachery, and prevail upon her to forsake him to whom she had once vow'd eternal Constancy and Fidelity.

Castrucchio was soon acquainted by Gloriana with the unwelcome News, that the Lord Varini was now his Rival in his pretensions to her, which he received with a courage undaunted, telling her, that as no person of what Quality soever, durst make an attempt upon her Vertue, so he was well assured he would find as cold Entertainment in her Affections; and that she who knew the Honor and Justice of his Cause, was the most fit person to determine his Right, which the Lord Vari∣ni with more Treachery than Gallantry endeavoured to supplant. Gloriana with repeated promises gave fresh assurance of a constant and Loyal Heart, which all the charms of Ambition, should never be able to af∣fect with levity, nor the gilded promises of a plentiful Joynture corrupt with Infidelity.

But alass! what Heart is so steel'd from all Impressions of Vice, that Covetousness and Ambition can make no dint upon it? Love too often softens the most rigid and austere Vertue, which once made pliable receives the easie Signatures of those Crimes, we at first so boldly scorn'd and detested. This was the case of fair but in∣constant Gloriana, the present Temptation of Riches and Honour, were so often presented to her with all the glorious Train of future Blessings, that at last the gawdy show stagger'd her weaker Resolution, and she rather chose the Age and Impotency of a Gouty Lord, than

the Youth and Vigour of her faithful Castrucchio. In short, the sedulous Addresses of Varini, joyn'd with the powerful Commands of Berinto, at last took place, and Gloriana consented to the Marriage, which was solemni∣zed in the Castle of St. Brien a forthnight after, with all the Magnificence and Splendor a generous Bounty was able to express.

Castrucchio was not long before he received intelli∣gence of the fatal News, and a positive confirmation of his own unhappy State by the treacherous Gloriana, which so nearly reach'd his heart, that he immediately fell into a deep Melancholy, which continued for seve∣ral Months upon him, and had now brought him into a Consumption, which his Friends apprehending the dan∣ger of advised him to remove to Padua, the chief Univer∣sity of Italy, not far from Venice, for change of Air; where we shall leave him to the care of the most able and learned Physicians, and return to Gloriana, who has now attained the utmost perfection of that Happi∣ness she had aspired to.

The Count and his Lady lived at St. Brien, were vi∣sited and complemented by all the Nobility and Gentry of the Country, and to all appearance no persons could be more happy than Varini in the Embraces of Gloriana, and Gloriana in the Love and Endearments of Varini: But alas! the fairest Picture hath its shade, and the brightest day is closed by the dark and dismal night. Gloriana had not been married above nine months, be∣fore she grew pale and wan, the Roses of her Cheeks were faded, and the little Cupids which formerly dan∣c'd in her Eyes were fled and gone, a Cloud of Melan∣choly sate hovering on her Forehead, and all her Acti∣ons and Discourse spoke the Resentments of a troubled and discontented Mind. Her Conversation had now lost that air and briskness she was once so admired for, and all her time was spent in a melancholy retirement to her Closet, or in the most shady recesses of her Garden, where she sigh'd away her bitter hours in complaints to the

more happy Birds, who free from the Tyranny of hu∣mane Laws, did once a year choose their own Mates, and in fresh enjoyments could bill without controul. Va∣rini was passionately concerned to see his beloved Glori∣ana so strangely alter'd, and with all the tender expres∣sions of Love and Kindness endeavoured to expel those Troubles which had seiz'd her Mind; but all in vain, Age had now made him an impotent Physician, and Na∣ture denyed him that Elixir of Life which could only cure the Longings of a youthful and vigorous Lady. Gloriana declined so fast in her Health, that he resolved to remove to Venice, in hopes the pleasantness of the Place, and variety of Company, would divert her Me∣lancholy, and restore her to her former Health and Beauty, and accordingly did so.

Varini had not been above three months there, but Castrucchio, who was now perfectly recovered at Padua, heard of his return to Venice, whither he immediately removed, and courted all opportunities to get a sight of the Countess, which soon after he effected. Under∣standing she used to go to St. Mark's Chappel to Mass, he constantly paid his Devotions there, where at last he spied her upon her Knees before the high Altar, and not observing the Count her Husband, or any of her Servants near, went and kneel'd down by her. It is not difficult to guess what Saint he made his Prayers to, nor what was the Subject of his Petitions▪ The Countess was strangely surpriz'd to see Castrucchio so near her, and in the midst of his Discourse bid him forbear, and meet her there the next Afternoon at four precisely. Castrucchio in the interim suffered all the Torments that variety of Thoughts could rack him with, sometimes blaming her Disloyalty to him, he ex∣pected nothing but scorn and contempt, and presently when he considered her first infidelity, it gave him hopes she might prove as faithless to the Count, whose cold and impotent Embraces could never oblige the craving desires of a youthful Beauty. The hour was now come,

and Castrucchio impatiently expected the Countess, who presently came and kneeled down in the same place he had seen her before; Castrucchio placed himself next to her, who immediately gave him a Note into his hands, wherein he found these Contents following:

Gloriana to Castrucchio.

TO morrow the Count Varini goes to his Castle at St. Brien, and at ten in the morning I will be at the Franciscan Church, till then farewell my dear, my dear Castrucchio.

Castrucchio was overjoyed at this Assignation, and punctually observed it, where, notwithstanding his dili∣gence, the Countess prevented him, from whence they immediately went to the Water-side, and took a Gon∣dola, and so directly to a private Garden of Pleasure, where the recluseness of the place presented them with the opportunity of a more secret Converse. Castrucchio could not so prudently stifle his resentments of Gloriana's Inconstancy, but she presently observ'd discontent in his looks, and by the breaks of his Discourse, that a more fix'd and compos'd trouble was settled in his heart. Whereupon, My dear Castrucchio, sayes she, You blame me I know, and presume the Iustice of your Cause, will warrant your Reflections on my guilty Breast; I confess I am not so innocent as I ought to be, yet let not the severity of your prosecution, exceed the quality of my Offence; if I have wronged your Goodness by my Breach of Faith, let that good∣ness now forgive me, and my too late Repentance be my Pu∣nishment. Gloriana's Penitence and Castrucchio's Mercy, soon wrought a perfect reconciliation, and the rest of the time was spent in more pleasant and amorous en∣tertainments. At evening they parted, when Gloria∣na told Castrucchio, the Visit he promised she'd receive at her own House the next Evening, for she did not expect the Count's Return till ten days after.

Thus they had frequent Enterviews, in the absence of the Count by the assistance of Fortia, Gloriana's Waiting-Woman, who being privy to the Intrigues of Love between the Countess and Castrucchio, was very serviceable to their Amours, by admitting him in the dusk of the Evening, at a back door into her Lodgings where they revelled all night in forbidden Pleasures, lit∣tle dreaming of those heavy Judgments, which so close∣ly pursued their Adulterous Crimes. The Count was now returned, who observ'd great alterations in the Temper and Behaviour of Gloriana, her Humour had now recovered its former Sprightliness, and nothing seemed so dear and obliging to her, as the Embraces of her Husband, which he was extreamly pleased withal, mistaking that for Love and Kindness in her, which was only a feigned Passion and crafty disguise, to conceal a more notorious Offence. Varini had now continued two months at Venice, whose presence prevented that famili∣arity and those frequent Visits the Lady and her Para∣mour so earnestly coveted, which Gloriana much lamen∣ted, and by the advice of Fortia, resolv'd to remedy. It was agreed that Gloriana should counterfeit her self sick, which she did, and prayed Varini that Father Pau∣lo Raquinto her Confessor might be sent for, whose Prayers and Ghostly Counsel she hoped would turn to her great advantage. Varini was much grieved at the sickness of his Lady, and readily granted any request she made; accordingly the Holy Father came daily to visit the Countess, of which Fortia gave Castrucchio no∣tice, and that it was her Ladies Pleasure that he should put himself into the same Religious habit, under which Covert he might with safety see her when ever Varini was abroad. This design was of great Service to them, for no sooner was Varini gone to the Rialto, but Fortia gave Castrucchio intelligence, who presently came and was admitted without the least mistrust of the Servants. This politick contrivance for a long time skreen'd the Adulterous Countess, from the suspitions of her Servants

and the Jealousies of Varini; who (she appearing now to be with Child,) doted on her more than ever; praised his own happiness in a mistaken Blessing, deeming that the strength of his Impotent Age and the Glory of his Gray-Hairs, which was the effect of youthful Lust in his shameless and Adulterous Wife.

But not long after Varini by accident took up a Let∣ter in his Ladies Chamber, and found the Directions of it to Seignior Castrucchio; the name startled him ex∣treamly, wondring how it should come there; the Con∣tents of it, were business writ from some Gentleman in the Country; after he had a long time pondered upon the matter, with all the jealous Disquisitions of an Italian Brain, he resolved the point, that this Gentleman was most certainly his Ladies Gallant, and probably the same Person since the name was so, to whom he too lately understood she had been pre-contracted. The Letter however he concealed, and presuming if there was any such Intrigue that Fortia was acquainted with it, the Countess being gone to Mass, he strictly exami∣ned her, whom he endeavoured to threaten into a Confession which she couragiously withstood; but at last being tempted with a Purse of Checquins, she made that Faith a Slave to Gold, which could not be forc'd by the Terrors of Punishment, and discovered the dan∣gerous Secret with all it's Circumstances. Varini re∣ceived the dismal Story, with horror and amazement, curs'd his own unhappy Fortune, and much more the Treachery of his disloyal Countess; after a little pause he gratified Fortia according to his promise, and com∣manding her to silence, retired to his Closet where he meditated a Revenge proportionable to his own Injury and Gloriana••s Infidelity.

Three days after, he told Gloriana with a smiling Countenance▪ he must leave her to lye alone that night and go over to St. Brien for some Writings he wanted, but would be back the next Evening; and to give a fair∣er gloss to the business, and make her more secure, or∣dered

her if Seignior Boraccio the Procurator came, to give him those Parchments in his Closet, of which that was the Key. Varini immediately parted for St. Brien, who was no sooner gone, but the Countess sent Ca∣strucchio word of it, and desired his Company that night; Castrucchio who had never yet failed her amorous invi∣tations was punctual at the hour. Varini pretending to his Servants he had forgot something, returned by 11 at night, and went directly up to her Chamber atten∣ded by Sturio a Gentleman that waited upon him, whom he ordered to knock at the door, (which was locked) and say, he had a Letter to the Countess of urgent Bu∣siness from his Lord Varini. The Lovers having weari∣ed themselves with the repetition of their unlawful Plea∣sures lay fast asleep enchased in each others Arms, till Fortia awaked Gloriana, telling her some body knockt at the Chamber door, who startled at it, bid her ask who was so rude, and what their Business; Sturio (whose Voice was very well known) answered, he had brought a Letter from his Lord Varini to the Countess of important busi∣ness, upon which, not in the least suspecting what was de∣sign'd against her, she commanded Fortia to open the door, and receive the Letter, and bid Sturio to wait her An∣swer below. Fortia no sooner opened the door, but Va∣rini rushed in with his Sword drawn, and Sturio after him with a brace of Pistols in his hands; Castrucchio was asleep, and the Countess so surprised, that she onely gave one loud shriek, at which Castrucchio awaking, at the same instant felt Varini's Sword in his Breast, who with repeated Wounds gave his fleeting Soul an easie passage into another World. The Countess lay trembling by, happy in this onely, that she had nothing now to fear, but each minute hop'd and begg'd his revenging S••eel would carve the same Justice on her guilty Breast; but in vain, Varini intended her no such favour. Castruc∣chio being seemingly dead, Varini commanded Sturio to strike off his Head, and with his own hands ript open his Breast, and took out his Heart, which leaping in his

Hand, This Madam, says he, (turning to the Countess) is the heart of your beloved Paramour, see yet how sprightly it is; it was unreasonable, Lady, you should have him wholly to your self, this is my share now, and that yours, scornfully kick∣ing the Head to her. It is impossible to describe that horrour of Mind and Anguish of Soul Gloriana laboured under, which nothing but the Blessing of a sudden death was able to relieve her from. Castrucchio's Body thus mangled was thrown out at the Window snto the Street, and Gloriana confined to her Chamber, where she was left alone, with the head of her Lover placed on her Cabinet, to furnish her with constant Meditations of Death, and the sad remembrance of her former pleasures, which, with the present torment of a guilty Conscience, was a punishment more grievous than ten thousand deaths. The next Morning discovered Castrucchio's Body, which was found under Gloriana's Window, with the Head off, the Breast cut open, and the Heart pull'd out, to the great wonder and astonishment of every gazing Passenger. Varini went early in the morning to the Council and acquainted them with the Circumstances of the Fact, before the Officers of Justice had notice of it, acknowledged himself the Authour, proved by Sturio and Fortia, that he found Castrucchio in Bed with his La∣dy, and upon that provocation had taken this severe but just Revenge, which appearing to he true by the afore∣said Evidence, he was acquitted.

Seven days after Gloriana was delivered of a dead Son, whose immature Birth was occasioned by the Violence of her grief and sorrow, which yet was not powerful enough to end her unhappy days, and put a period to those Miseries under which she languished. Varini see∣ing the present illness of Gloriana, ordered the Head of Castrucchio to be removed from her sight, the smell of it now growing very offensive, and sometimes used to visit her, and in some measure, seemed to remit the se∣verity of his Revenge, and give place to Pitty and Com∣passion. Gloriana after a Month, was so well recove∣red,

that she walked about her Chamber and had liber∣ty to take the air of the Garden, and dine if she plea∣sed publickly with Varini or privately in her own Cham∣ber, but constantly obliged to drink out of Castrucchio's Skull, which by the Command of the Count, had the Flesh boyled off, the Brains taken out, and fashioned in∣to the form of a Cup.

Not long after Varini meeting Gloriana one Evening, walking solitary in the Gallery, My Dear, says he, I observe you yet continue very pensive and Melancholly, at which I am much concerned; I have consulted your Physitians in relation to your Health, who have prescribed an Electuary which you must take this Evening, an hour before you go to Bed, it will comfort your Spirits and cheer your Heart: which she wil∣lingly assented to. At night he brought it to her Cham∣ber himself, and having recommended it to her for the richness of the Ingredients, she eat chearfully of it, and asking if she must take it all at once, that, said he, as you please Madam, and as you like it, it is the Heart of your beloved Castrucchio, prepared for you with my own hands according to Art: at which words she looked ear∣nestly upon him, saying, It has all the Qualities of the richest Balsom and most pretious Cordial, 'tis pitty any part of it should be lost; and as soon as she had eaten it all up, went to rest, and was found next morning dead in her Bed. But I shall not determine whether her Death was the effect of Passion, in some extraordinary Transport of Joy at the remembrance of her dear Castrucchio; or that Varini had mixt Poyson in the Composition of his Medi∣cine; and that he might equally temper his Justice and Revenge together, by giving her Castrucchio's lustful Heart, the sweet of her Life mixt with the bitter Ingredients of Death, to Varini••s Shame, and Gloriana's Punishment. Thus dyed the inconstant Gloriana, and two years after, the Count, having first quitted the troublesome Stage of this World, retired into the Monastery of S••. Francis, where he assumed a Religious Habit, and spent the

short remainder of his Life, in constant Prayers, and pious Meditations.

Had humble Vertue, been more the Subject of Gloriana's Meditations, than Covetousness or Ambition; her lust∣ful Heart, had never made a forfeiture of Castrucchio's Head: nor his miserable Death, been the shame and punish∣ment of her Vitious Life.

HIST. II. Dribellus and Petronella.

Dribellus courts Petronella, and deflowers her, she is after∣wards married to Polissus; By the means of Morella her Waiting-Woman Dribellus commits Adultery with her which is discovered by Paretta, Polissus cuts off Dribel∣lus his Members, scourges Morella, and Petronella is condemned to the Punishment of the Radish, of which she dyes.

THessaly in Greece, (which so oft has heen the happy Sub∣ject of the Poet's Song) is no less celebrated for its lofty Mountains, whose aspiring heads surmount the Clouds, than for its fruitful Plains, the Riches and Delight of the industrious Shepherd; in which fam'd Oeta shares e∣qual Honour with towring Olympus and the well spread Taurus; not far from the foot of Oeta, are yet some Re∣mains of that glorious City, once called Hypata, where Patricius Castriot, a Gentleman of antient Family and large Demesus lived in Honour and Reputation, from whom the noble Scanderbeg, that Scourge and Terrour of the Turks, derived his Pedigree. This Gentleman had one only Child, a Daughter called Petronella, a young Lady of admirable Beauty, in which she not more excell'd all others of her Sex, than in the per∣fections of her mind, which Bounty of Heaven, her careful Father still endeavoured to improve by the

most learned Masters of all Sciences that Age afforded.

Amongst others, Dribellus a young Gentleman who had been Educated under Miletus Bishop of Thessalonica, was entertained by him, with the promise of a generous Reward, to instruct his Daughter in Rhetorick, in which he particularly excelled; the good Father re∣solving she should want no accomplishment that Art could furnish her with, to render her the most com∣pleat Pattern of Vertue and Learning, and the only Phaenix of her Age and Sex. The Care and Industry of Dribellus was soon discovered by the great Improve∣ment of his Pupil, which Patricius was no less sensible of, and constantly encouraged with his bountiful Hand. Twelve Months were now passed, in which Dribellus by his obliging behaviour, had equally charm'd the tender Affections of Petronella, and won the good O∣pinion of her Father and Mother, both highly com∣mended his modest Carriage and sweetness of Temper, from whose indefatigable pains, they hoped to reap those great advantages, his studious Labours so fairly promised.

The constant society of Dribellus with Petronella, had now endear'd them to each other, and the unhappy Flames of Love warm'd their Breasts with mutual Kindness and Respect, which Dribellus no sooner dis∣covered by the languishing Looks of Petronella, but he resolved if possible, to raise a future Fortune there, where at first, he only expected a present Support and Maintainance. To this end he courted all Opportunities to enjoy her Company, and frequently exchanged his Lectures of Rhetorick, for the more pleasing discourses of Love, which he soon found were no less acceptable to his Mistress than the other had been grateful to his Pu∣pill. Thus they continued for some time, courting each other with Amorous Glances and melancholly Sighs, the dumb but powerful Rhetorick of bashful Lovers; till at last Dribellus in express Terms, discovered his Passion to her, at which she seemed very much surpri∣zed,

but having recovered her self, told him, she had been always very sensible of his great Respects to her in those diligent Instructions she received from him, which though she was in no capacity to retaliate, she would never forget; and hoped the Bounty and Gene∣rosity of her Parents, would in some measure answer his Merits, whilst she could only reward him with a Thankful acknowledgement. Dribellus who well knew the great Wit of Petronella could not mistake the true sence and meaning of his discourse, though her Pru∣dence and Modesty diverted it to another Subject, presently reply'd, Dribellus has no such haughty Thoughts of his past Service, to think he ever could oblige the fair Pe∣tronella, or in the least deserve a return of that sincere Af∣fection he professes to her. I love my fairest Petronella; I leve; and no reward is valuable with me but what gives me your Heart, or robs me of my Life; if your Kindness bids me live, I live your Servant, or your frown at the same minute, commands me to dye your Martyr.

Petronella blush'd, and what Modesty would not suf∣fer her to utter in words, she spoke in her languishing eyes and abrupt sighs, live Dribellus, live, and let that cruel Maid, be for ever forsaken who bids her lover dye. At this Dribellus took Heart and pursued his Amours with so vigorous an Attaque, that the Lady made a willing Surrender, and promised that the Heart he had so bravely conquered, should ever be the Trophy, of his Victory.

Dribellus having thus gain'd an assurance of Petronella's Affections, endeavoured by all means, to fix it beyond the Power or Cause of ill Fortune, and accordingly some few days after, finding Petronella in the Garden, began an Assault upon her Vertue, with all the specious pretensions of Affection that Love could inspire him with▪ Petronella, who had already yielded up her heart to Dri∣bellus, thought the sacred trust of her Honours might be reposed in the same Breast, with equal securi∣ty. Thus with kind Caresses, and wanton Dalliances,

did this subtil Thief rob her of the Flower of her Virgi∣nity, and with the sighs and denials of a languishing Maid, she at last exchanged the native Innocence of her Soul, and Vertue of her Mind, for Shame, Folly and Dishonour: This was the first step they made in those crooked Paths of Wickedness, which they afterwards so much delighted in, who by the frequent Repetition of their unlawful Pleasures, were now grown so careless and secure, as if they gloried in their sins, and were nei∣ther sensible of their shame, nor apprehensive of the pu∣nishment, which with a silent pace constantly pursues the lustful Criminal.

Before this was discovered by any of her Relations, a young Gentleman, who lived at Larissa, (the Birth∣place of Achilles, not far from Oeta) whose Name is Po∣lissus, the eldest Son of Abridatus, a Gentleman of very considerable Estate and Family, was recommended to her Father, as a Person who would be a very suitable Match for his Daughter, who with a very handsome Equipage, was now come over to Hypata to court her. Fame had spoke loud of the Perfections of Petronella, both in Bo∣dy and Mind, and after some days Converse found him∣self absolutely conquered by the Charms of her Witand Conversation, which were more irresistible than those of her Face and Beauty, in both which she appeared so il∣lustrious, that Polissus was straight made a Prisoner by her, and fast fettered in the golden Chains of Love. This gave the Lovers an unexpected disturbance, who with Sighs and Tears express the present Trouble and Anguish of their Minds, they curse the coming of Po∣lissus, and charge him as the sole Author of their Un∣happiness and Misery: Dribellus looks on him with En∣vy, and Petronella with Disdain; she could not willingly afford him one amorous glance, all her smiles were coun∣terfeit, and the best Entertainment she could give him was upon force and constraint, whil'st he sighs and throws himself at her Feet, without moving her to the least Pity or Compassion; but Polissus grew daily into

the favour of her Parents, though he found little pro∣gress in the heart of the Daughter; and although Pa∣tricius himself interposed his Paternal Authority to recommend him to her Affections, told her of his Riches, and fair Possessions, the Nobility of his Family, and his Personal Endowments, yet she slight∣ed and contemned him, and one day told her Mother, that though she did allow Polissus to be a compleat Gen∣tleman, yet it was impossible for her to act so great a violence upon her self, as to force her Affections to love that Person she ever had an aversion to, and should think her self more happy in the cold Arms of Death, than the Embraces of that Husband that she could not affect. The Mother moved with the Tears of her Daughter, took pity on her, but her Father being of a more stern and austere Nature, grew enraged at her denial, and was so far from admitting her impertinent Reasonings, that he resolved to force her to compliance, and not suffer her longer to resist his Will and Pleasure, and to that end dispatched a Messenger to Abridatus, Po∣lissus his Father, in order to se••tle all things for the in∣tended Marriage.

Patricius finding all his Endeavours fruitless, and his Daughter so perverse and obstinate, that neither his Threats could force her, or his Endearments win her, be∣gan to consider with himself what could be the true cause of her Contumacy and Dislike; he saw nothing in the Person or Behaviour of Polissus, but what might render him acceptable to a Maid not prepossess'd with the Love of another: He knew he had kept her strictly at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 under his own care and government, and that her youth had hitherto defended her from all Insinuations of that nature; nor could his thoughts fix upon any Person thereabouts, that could give him the least umbrage of suspicion, much less did he imagine Dribellus was that Thief, who had robb'd his Daughter of her Heart, so great an opinion had he of his Vertue and Honesty. But his Wife, who best knew the temper of her own Sex,

so narrowly watched all the Actions and Gestures of Petronella, that she soon discovered the kindness and Familiarity that was between the Master and the Scho∣lar; but (like a prudent Woman) she did not immedi∣ately acquaint her Husband with it, and publish to the World the folly of her Daughter, but watched an Op∣portunity, that she might take them together and re∣prove them of that Folly which would certainly be at∣tended with Misery and Repentance.

It happened not long after, that Dribellus and Petro∣nella being retired into a Grove of Olives, which by the privacy and recluseness of it, had been the frequent Scene of their dishonest Pleasures, the Mother followed them at a distance, and in the midst of those ravishing Delights they entertain'd each other with; she cryed out and appeared to the two Lovers in the very Extasie and Rapture of their Lust. It is here impossible to de∣scribe the horror and amasement the two Lovers were in, to see themselves surprized in this wanton Posture; the sight of her Mother was more terrible to them, than that of a Basilisk, the lightning of her eyes and the thunder of her voice, pierced their Breasts and cleft their Hearts asunder. In this posture they continued a while, without being able to say one word in excuse of themselves or the notoriousness of that Fact which was too apparent to be denyed; till at last Dribellus be∣gan to speak in Justification of himself and the afflicted Petronella, cha••ging all the blame on the power and force of Love, and the rigorous indiscretion of Patricius, who would compel Petronella to marry Polissus, whom she could never Love Petronella, with Shame and Confu∣sion in her Face begs her Mothers Pardon and Forgive∣ness with Tears and Sighs, who taking her by the hand, led her to her Chamber, where after she had se∣verely reprehended her with the guilt and ignominy of such dissolute Pleasures, she lockt her up, and there left her to her own Meditations; and went directly to her Father and told him that she had discovered an

Intrigue of Love between Dribellus and Petronella, which was the cause of her Aversion to Polissus, with∣out discovering that secret which would for ever have blasted the Honour of her Daughter, and branded their Family, with an indelible mark of Shame and In∣famy. Patricius heard this Relation with Grief and Asto∣nishment, and at the desire of his Wife, resolved to turn off Dribellus with all speed, and that no particular notice should be taken, at the same time to discharge all her other Masters, she being now to be marri∣ed, and to go and live with her Husband at La∣rissa.

Dribellus wondered much that he was onely dischar∣ged, and no other punishment inflicted on him, which he could not attribute to the Clemency of Patricius, but his Ignorance of that Crime he was guilty of; which he supposed the prudence of his Wife had concealed from him, who otherwise would have been as severe in his Revenge, as the heinousness of so great a Fault did justly deserve.

Polissus receiving fresh encouragement from Patricius of success in his Amours, returns to Hypata, where he finds Petronella much altered in her temper and respects to him, and now fairly promises himself the happiness of consummating the Espousals with his beautiful Mi∣stress he so earnestly coveted; which to the great satis∣faction of himself and all his Friends, (but the unhappy Petronella) were solemniz'd with all imaginable Pomp and Splendour. Two months af••er, he took his leave of Patricius, and returned to Larissa with his Bride, where his Father received them with the expressions of a hearty Welcome; and Petronella demean'd her self, with that Duty and Respect, that she was both belov'd and admir'd of all. Who would not now think Petro∣nella is intirely happy, and might live the contentedst Woman in the World? but alas where Grace and Ver∣tue do not strew the Wedding with Flowers and Garlands, Hymen is attended with Furies, and his Saf∣fron

Robe dipt in Gall; the happiness of Marriage, is the union of two Hearts, not the conjunction of two Bo∣dies, and where the sincerity of Affection is wanting, all Vows and Contracts, are frail and brittle Tyes. The memory of Dribellus and those unlawful Pleasures she had so often repeated in his Arms, now afresh attack'd her, and nothing could please her lascivious Thoughts, but the hopes she might once again see her beloved Pa∣ramour; when unexpectedly she received a Letter from him to this purpose.

Dribellus to Petronella.

MY dearest Petronella, the Life and Ioy of my Soul, I die for you, and languish after you my Life; since I am banished from your Presence, (which is more intole∣rable to me then the severest Death) I cannot live without a sight of you; for which reason I am privately come to Larissa, and shall wait your directions how I may once more be happy in the enjoyment of your Company, which if you forbid me, you strike a Dagger to my Heart, which now bleeds for you. Your Answer is my Sentence of Life or Death, which I impa∣tiently wait for, and if you ever loved I now beg your pity on the most unhappy and forlorn

Dribellus.

Petronella was overjoy'd at the receipt of this Letter, and immediately returned an Answer, desiring him to be at the Garden Door at five that Evening, where she would expect his coming. But poor Petronella thou wilt dearly ••rue this sight, and too late be sensible that the pleasures of Sin, are compounded of the bitterest Ingre∣dients. The hour being come Petronella ordered her Waiting-Woman Marella, to attend at the Garden Door and conduct Dribellus into an Arbour, where the Tran∣sports of Joy betwixt the two Lovers are inexpressible; they met with equal Ardour and Affection, bewailed one anothers Destiny, and cursed the Tyrany of Pa∣rents who often consult more their own Interest, than the Happiness and Satisfaction of their Children, in such

forc'd Marriages, which often prove most fatal in the consequence. At last (Marella being made one of their Council) it was agreed that Dribellus who was scarce known to Polissus, should put himself into the ha∣bit of a Servant, and under the feigned name of Cotys be admitted into the Family to look after the Wardrobe, which place was now vacant. Dribellus was accor∣dingly entertained, whilst Polissus never suspects the Snake he lodg'd in his bosom, nor the Thief he harbou∣red in his House; and now Cotys thinks himself happy, hugs his own Ingenuity, and imagins himself blessed and fortunate. In this manner the two Lovers live together, take hold of all Opportunities to converse to∣gether and enjoy each other; no Clouds appeared to interrupt their Joy, and all things ran with a smooth and even Current. Among the many Servants they kept, there was a Maid called Paretta, who fell despe∣rately in Love with Cotys, would never be out of his Company, and at last grew so troublesome to him, that he was forced to slight and disrespect her that he might rid himself of her importunity. This she took in evil part, and supposing the reason of his unkindness to her, was the Love he had for some other Person, narrowly watched him; and at last discovered the Kindness and Familiarity between him and Petro∣nella.

Paretta, who resolved to be revenged on her hated Rival, watched all Opportunities to take them toge∣ther, believing she should find them unchast in their Dalliances, which accordingly fell out not long after; when seeing Morella one Evening go into the Garden and Cotys immediately follow, she made hast after them and found the Door fast on the inside, which the more increased her Suspition; and remembring there lay a short Ladder in the Barn, by the help of it mounted the Garden Wall, and privately conveyed her self near the Arbor where she saw Cotys and Marella (who were talking together) and presently after her Lady descen∣ding

on a Ladder made of Ropes, from a Balcony into the Garden, whom Cotys presently led into a close Arbor of Iessamines at the further end of which they caress'd each other with amorous Embra∣ces, whilst Morella waiting at a distance watch'd the Doors and Windows to prevent a Discovery.

The next day Paretta pleased with the opportunity she now had of being revenged on the disdainful Cotys, acquaints Polissus with the Infidelity of Cotys and Trea∣chery of Petronella, who had thus shamefully abused his Honour and prostituted her self to his Servant and Slave. Polissus struck with the horror of this Relation, exa∣mins her o're and o're, finds no disagreement in her Tale, but too much reason to believe the Truth of it, and now fears this was some former Lover of hers in dis∣guise. To discover the certainty thereof, he acquainted an intimate and familiar Friend with it, and by his ad∣vice pretending one Evening, to walk abroad upon a Visit, they secretly conveyed themselves into the Gar∣den where they lay close and undiscovered. Two hours after, entered Cotys and Morella, and presently after Petronella descended from the Balcony by the same Lad∣der of Ropes. Their ears were the first witnesses of their Amorous Parly, and it was not long before their eyes discovered their Filthiness, when in the midst of their lustful Pleasures, they surprized them with their glittering Scymiters in their hands, which struck the Lovers with a horror and consternation, beyond the power of words to express. Petronella implor'd nothing but present Death from his own hands, which he had not Mercy enough to give, but reserv'd her for a more infamous and shameful end. Turning his Eyes from her, with all the passionate Expressions of Abhorence and Detestation, he called in his Servants, and order'd them to bind Dribellus, who was immediately dismem∣bred before her Face, and thrust out of Doors to seek his Fortune. Morella was stript and bound to a Tree,

and scourged with the Twigs of Hazle, till the Skin was Flead off from her Back, and then banished the City; Petronella was carried to her Chamber, where she con∣tinued Prisoner till the next Morning, when she was brought before the Magistrates, and upon evident Proof of the Adultery, was condemned to undergo the Raphination or Punishment of the Radish, which in those Countrys grow to a great magnitude, which they force up their Bodies. Thus the wretehed Petro∣nella suffered, when she had in vain begged to be strangled, and dyed the most ignominious and shame∣ful Death the Art of Man could invent.

Petronella dyed very penitent, confessing the wicked∣ness of her Crime, and begging pardon of her Husband was both pitied by him, and much lamented by all who knew the Quality of her Birth and vertuous Edu∣cation.

Thus we see the Tragical End, of unlawful Pleasures which like the Apples of Sodom appear fair and beautiful to the Eye; promise a Thousand Happinesses by their bewitching outside and false appearances, but within are either nothing but rotteness, or upon the first touch, crumble into Dust, acd leave us to Shame and Misery here, and eternal Damnation hereafter.

HIST. III. Don Pedro and Paulinta.

Don Roderigo marries Dona Paulinta. Don Pedro de Castello by the assistance of John de Blinco, the Astro∣loger, and Laura her Waiting-Woman, commits Adul∣tery with her. Paulinta upon her delivery of a monstru∣ous Birth, dyes. Roderigo runs mad, Don Pedro is branded in the Forehead, Blinco whipt through the Streets of Corduba, and sent to the Mines; and Laura torn in pieces by Wild Beasts.

AT Corduba in Spain, lived Don Andreo Rametzi, who was a Person very considerable in those Parts, both for his Estate and Quality, and a peculiar excellency he had in dispatch of Business of the great∣est moment, in which he was indefatigable: For these Reasons in the year 1579 he was made Proveditor Ge∣neral under Don Iohn of Austria, to whose care and provision, were committed the Arms, Ammunition, and all other Naval Preparations, for that huge Arma∣da; which was compleatly furnish'd out in 1588, and design'd for the Invasion of England, and utter Extirpa∣tion of the Reformed Religion. This Gentleman died in the year before at Cales of a malignant Feaver, and left three Sons of which, Don Roderigo was the eldest, who upon his Fathers Death, being Master of a plen∣tiful Estate, left the Command he had in the Fleet, (upon some disgust) and returned to Corduba; where within a Twelvemonth he was married to Dona Paulinta, the only Daughter of Don Camillo, a rich and wealthy Citi∣zen. The young couple lived with great content and satisfaction in their mutual Love and Affection, during the first three years of their Marriage; but being not yet bless'd with any Children, those desired Fruits of their Conjugal Vows, the discouragements of their vigorous Embraces bred discontent; and each blam'd

the other, for the want of that Happiness neither could give.

These Differences between Roderigo and Paulinta in∣creas'd to that height, that Roderigo forsook her Bed, and often with opprobious Taunts, call'd her Barren Doe; all his Satyrical Expressions, were still pointed with Reflections on her Sterility; which she unable to bear, with her wonted Patience and Submission, complained to her Relations, of the unkindness of her Husband, and desired their Intercession, often saying, she believed he would be a contented Cuckold, upon condition, he was but a Presumptive Father. These Discords were in some measure reconcil'd by the Mediation of Friends; but the occasion of them was now grown the chat and entertainment of every Feast, and at last reached the Ears of Don Pedro de Ca∣stello a young Gentleman, whose extravagant Pleasures had much impayr'd his Estate, which oblig'd him to consider of some new methods of living, to maintain his Port and Quality. He was familiarly acquainted with Roderigo, and the late discourses he had heard of the difference between him and his Wife, rais'd new de∣signs in his head of advancing his Fortunes by a Court∣ship to her, in which his own hopes, and her present Discontent flattered him with Success. To this end, he watch'd all Opportunities to oblige him with some respectful Service, and not long after meeting Roderigo, who told him of the late misfortune he had in Hunting, to gore his Horse upon a Stake as he leapt a Hedge, with the danger of his own life; they fell upon a dis∣course of the excellency of the Spanish Jennets, their beautiful Shape and Fleetness, in the close of all, Ro∣derigo told him he thought no Gentleman in Corduba was Master of a better Horse than himself; Don Pedro presently replyed your Commendations Seignior will make me place a greater Value and Esteem upon him; and the next day, by his Servant presented him with his Jen∣net, and a Saddle and Foot cloth richly Embroydered.

This generous Kindness of Don Pedro so highly en∣dear'd him to Roderigo, that they vow'd eternal Friend∣ship to each other; were constant Companions in all their Pleasures and Diversions, and the same Soul seem'd to animate both their Bodies. This Intimacy gave Don Pedro free access to Roderigo's House, where he observed the disgusts between him and his Wife, which, whenever he was absent, by his graceful Be∣haviour and more particular Respects to her, he en∣deavoured to improve to his own advantage.

The assiduous Address of Don Pedro to Paulinta, and the continual slights of Roderigo, promis'd him success in his Amours; which he pursued with so much Arti∣fice and Industry, that Roderigo was not in the least jea∣lous of his design, nor Paulinta insensible of his Affecti∣ons. Don Pedro had now made his Applications, for four Months, in amorous Glances, and courtly Smiles, which he flatter'd himself, had so far prevail'd upon her that nothing remain'd but an easie Conquest, and that she would readily Surrender the Fort of Honour, assoon as he had the Opportunity to make one bold Attacque. Two days after Roderigo told Don Pedro, Seignior Cour∣telet had desir'd his Company to Hunt the next Mor∣ning, which he had promis'd him; and hoped he would not be the last in the Field, who loved the Sport so well. Don Pedro excus'd himself, that he had Business of great Consequence fixt for that day, which Roderi∣go believing, admitted of, and prest no further. Ro∣derigo being abroad a hunting, Don Pedro followed his Game at home, and in express Terms, discover'd his Passion to Paulinta, which she receiv'd with disdain, telling him, her Husband little suspected that Sinceri∣ty of Friendship he pretended to him was false and counterfeit, and that the Injury he had offer'd him, would warrant his sharpest Revenge. Don Pedro was very much surpriz'd at so unkind an Answer, and pray••d that the reality of his Love to her Person and Zeal to her Service, might atone for the rudeness of his Lan∣guage;

and though he believed her Chast as the fam'd Lucretia, yet when her too vigorous Vertue, shall be the occasion of her Husband's discontent and her own Unhappiness, common Prudence would advise to re∣move both; which since it was the true Sense of his Discourse, he hop'd rather to merit her Esteem than deserve her Reprimand. Paulinta with a look as if she intended to smile, which was presently dash'd with a frown thus replyed; The great Concernment you express at my present Troubles challenge my Thanks, but did you as well consider the sacred Name of Vertue, which I must for ever disown, you would not so unworthily tempt me to prostitute my Honour, to cure the unreasonable Capricio's of a discontented Husband: This first Offence I'le parden but be∣ware you never provoke my Anger by a Second, which shall make you sensible of your Fault, by the Iustice of your Pu∣nishment.

Don Pedro seeing all his hopes of a projected Happi∣ness, thus blasted in a minute, resolv'd however not to quit his Design for a single disappointment, bur try to effect that by Stratagem, which he could not attain by the common methods of Love and Address. A∣mongst the Crowd of Thoughts and various Designs, his wandring Fancy presented him with, he at last hit upon this one Consideration which pleas'd above the rest. Laura Paulinta's Woman was passionately in Love, with his Man Philip, who either despising her Poverty or contemning her Beauty, slighted all offers of Kindness with a sullen Disrespect: Whereupon meeting her one day alone in the Street, he told her he under∣stood she had a particular Kindness for Philip, which he very well approv'd of, and if she would come to his Lodgings in the afternoon, he would propose a way to make her happy in the enjoyment of her Lover. Lau∣ra overjoy'd at this, came accordingly, and after seve∣ral discourses on that Subject to her great satisfaction, he promis'd her Philip for a Husband, and a hundred Duccatoons Reward, if she would prevail with Paulinta

to go to Iohn de Blinco the Astrologer, who was famous for telling of Fortunes, helping Maids to their Sweet-Hearts, and curing Barrenness in Married Women, which he was confident, Paulinta would experience the Truth of, in a short time, to the Joy and Content of her self and Roderigo. Laura told him this would be so great an Obligation to them, that no Person was more proper than himself to recommend it to her Mistress, which he excus'd as not consistent with her Modesty to hear, or his Friendship to discourse the Secrets of the Sheets and Sacred Royalties of the Marri∣age Bed. At last Laura agreed to undertake it and ac∣cordingly at the first Opportunity, proposed it to her Mistress, as a Thought of her own without ever na∣ming Don Pedro, which he had positively forbid, and she religiously swore to Observe.

Paulinta, like some of her Sex, who by being too strait lac'd, do often grow awry; as she was strictly Vertuous, was a litttle warp'd by Superstition, and ra∣ther than be less than good, endeavour'd to be more; This made her easily Credit Laura's Discourse, who having according to Don Pedro's Instructions, perswa∣ded her, of the lawfulness and certainty of Astrological Judgments, she presently concluded her self obliged to make use of those methods which would infallibly ren∣der them both happy in a fruitful Offspring. Three days after Laura acquainted Don Pedro that the next morning under pretence of going to Mass, Paulinta had determin'd to go to Iohn de Blinco's, to consult him what was the reason of her want of Children, and what Prolific Remedies were best in her Case. Don Pedro was well pleas'd at this News and the more that she did it without the privity and knowledge of Roderigo; No sooner was Laura gone, but he went directly to Iohn de Blinco, foretold him of Paulinta's coming next day, her Business, and furnish'd him with Answers of all sorts to satisfie the Queries that she or Laura should make; gave him fifty Duccatoons in hand, and pro∣mis'd

fifty more three days after, if the Design was discreetly manag'd. This de Blinco accepted, and as∣sur'd him of his utmost Care and Fidelity.

Next morning, Paulinta attended by Laura, went accordingly, and inquir'd if Seignior De Blinco the learn'd Astrologer was within; upon which they were conducted up Stairs into his Chamber; De Blinco pre∣sently came out of his Study in a Furr'd Gown, and blew Sattin Cap, with two and thirty Corners, bla∣zon'd according to the points of the Compass; the gravity of his Beard and solemn Meen, furnish'd them with a Respect and Reverence suitable to his Quality. Paulinta began to discourse her Business to him, which he prevented by telling her, You need not trouble your self Lady, to acquaint me with one Tittle you have to say, the Starrs have already better inform'd me, and if you please to have a little Patience till I have made a perfect Iudg∣ment of the Scheme, I have but now erected, I hope the present Face of the Heavens will return you (by me their Mouth) a serene and pleasing Answer. De Blinco went back to his Study, and Paulinta with Impatience wait∣ed his Return. About an hour after he came out again with a pair of Compasses in one hand, and a large Scheme in the other, and now Lady (said he) I am prepar'd to resolve all your Doubts; but first let me tell you at your Birth I calculated your Nativity, of which this is the Fi∣gure. You are the only Daughter of Don Camillo, I see very plainly here, and the present Conjunction was very un∣kind to you; you have six Enemies and but one Friend in this whole House, under their malignant Influence you have suf∣fer'd these several years, but now they have spit their Venom and the favourable Aspect of your Friend, shall make you Glorious and Triumphant. But as to your present Business, you desire to know the reasons of your Barrenness, and the Cure; The general Reasons are three, which proceed, from the three elemental Spirits▪ Tohu, Bohu and Vezi, and these I have already reconcil'd you to: Now as to the Cure, yours is the most desperate Case that I ever met with, there

is but one Man in the World born under the same Configu∣ration with your self, and unless you are in Conjunction with him, you will never be Prolific. Alas said Paulinta I am the unhappiest Creature in the World! Pray Sir look again I have told you all the Truth, reply'd De Blinco, alrea∣dy, and can add no more; but if you desire to know that single Man, it is within the power of my Art to discover him to you. Paulinta intreated it, and de Blinco thus went on; In the Sycamore Walk of the Carmelites Garden; at four in the Evening after the next full Moon (which is your Auspicious Planet) you will see him sitting alone upon a Bench reading Quevedo's Visions; and that's the Phaenix you look for. Paulinta having nobly rewarded him, desir'd to have it in Writing, which he gave her, and then taking leave, wish'd that blessed minute was now come which could only satisfie her labouring Mind in the Truth of these strange Predictions.

Learned Mythologists, who best expound the Myste∣rys of Poetic Fictions, say, the antient Heathens wor∣ship'd the Moon, under the name of Lucina the God∣dess of Midwifry; and the old Women of those days, thought her in Travel when she suffered an Eclipse, and by the beating of Kettles, and scraping of Trenchers kindly endeavour'd to recover her from those fainting Fits, by their hoarse Prayers and dismal Noises. But never did they pray more heartily than Paulinta did, to see her in the full Circle of her resplendant Glory: Nor did she more passionately caress Endymion when she stoopt to kiss the fair Youth; than Paulinta now did her, for the sake of her unknown Gallant.

The wish'd for day is come at last, but the sluggish hour mov'd on too slow to answer the earnest and lon∣ging expectations of thoughtful Paulinta; the clock had no sooner struck three, but she call'd Laura, and made hast to the Garden, and still as she pass'd along (impatient of delay) sent her eyes, the quick Harbingers of her troubled mind to make the happy Discovery. But oh the strange surprize▪ just as she entred the Syca∣more

Walk, she saw Don Pedro upon the next Bench leaning on his Arm in a melancholy posture, and rea∣ding to himself. Paulinta knew him at first sight, and suddenly stept back, as if her tender foot had prest the poysonous Adder, or more loathsom Toad: Don Pedro looking up spy'd Paulinta in disorder, whom he appro∣ach'd with that Civility and Respect he constantly pay'd her; whilst she prudently endeavour'd to hide her Passi∣ons, and pleasantly ask'd him what Book that was in his hand; It is Madam, said Don Pedro, Quevedo's Vi∣sions, he is a merry Companion, with whom I have diver∣ted many a tedious hour and melancholy Thought; if you are a Stranger to him, pray accept him from my hands, and I am sure upon better Acquaintance, you will give him the best reception he deserves. Paulinta receiv'd it, and at that minute by one amorous Glance discover'd the Infir∣mity of that Vertue which was thought to be impreg∣nable, but now forc'd to retreat, and give place to a more powerful and succcessfull Vice.

Frequent enterviews, at length made Paulinta's ob∣durate Heart malleable, and her Innocence and chast Resolutions, were by degrees undermin'd, and all her Pretensions to Honour, laid in the dust by the Craft of Don Pedro, and the Roguery of De Blinco. As to the first Act of Commission, I could charitably think her almost Innocent, because she was betrayed to it, but when once she came to relish those forbidden Plea∣sures, and grow Wanton in the enjoyment, Messali∣na was less Intemperate, she had both the Impu∣dence of a Duegna, and the lasciviousness of a Cour∣tezan.

These Intrigues, were for some time so well mana∣ged by the cunning of Laura, that Roderigo either not knew of them, or contrary to the common Temper of his Country, pretended Ignorance; and rather chose to conceal her Infamy, and his own abuse, than pub∣lish it to the World, by a notorious and bloody Re∣venge. But at last her Lewdness grew so extravagant

that he was now become the common Cornuto for every slavish finger to point at; Thisso enrag'd him that he threatned her with the severest Tortures, if she did not confess her Guilt, or justifie her Innocence. Paulinta upon her Knees, with Tears in her Eyes, pray'd his Patience and common Justice, assur'd him of her Fidelity, and with a thousand horrid Imprecations desir'd her dying Fame might be for ever attended with all those marks of Ignominy, with which the malice and detraction of her Enemies had stayn'd her living Reputation, if she had been ever guilty of the least of those Crimes, they had so unjustly charg'd up∣on her. Roderigo credulously believ'd her, and was perfectly reconcil'd.

Three months after, Paulinta appear'd big with Child to the great Satisfaction of her Husband, and in that time had behav'd her self with that Prudence and Caution, that no Man was more ready to accuse her than he to Vindicate her Honour, from the Calumnies and Aspersions of such malevolent Tongues. At her time of Travel, no Husband was more tenderly con∣cern'd for a Wife than Roderigo for Paulinta; and being told they had small hopes of preserving the Child, but less of saving her, he wept bitterly. At last it was re∣solv'd her Case was desperate, and their best endeavours to be employ'd in care of the Child, for whom like a se∣cond Caesar they made his way by Incision. The Fa∣ther impatiently desired a sight of his Son and Heir, which he had so heartily prayed for: But oh the Hor∣ror and Confusion! it had the exact resemblance of a Goat in the Face, with a long grizly Beard, but in all other parts of excellent Shape and Feature. At this dreadful sight, Roderigo immediately lost his Wits ran raving about the House, crying out, O wicked and for∣sworn Wretch! and three days after, dyed stark staring Mad. The monstruous Birth expired within few mi∣nutes after it was born.

Don Pedro followed his old course of Revelling all night with his drunken Companions; and being at the Tavern when this tragical News was brought, he smil'd at it, and told the Company (who were supriz'd to hear so sad a Relation) that he could spice it with a Cup of Mirth, and so began the Account of his De∣baucheries with Paulinta, and how by the Confede∣racy of De Blinco he had betray'd her to his wicked Lust; which being heard by the Company with Horror and Detestation; he was immediately apprehended by an Alguezile and carried before the Magistrates of Cor∣duba, and Orders issued out for the taking De Blinco, who was brought in the same Furr'd Gown and Corner'd Cap, and by the Evidence and Confession of Don Pedro, who also produc'd his Note for the Receipt of the last fifty Duccatoons with his Hand and Seal; He was con∣demned to be first whipt through the Streets of Corduba with Scorpions, and then sent to the Mines at Peru. Don Pedro though a Gentleman, receiv'd the Punishment of the most infamous Malefactor, by being branded in the Forehead, and then sent to the Galleys, where he continued two years, and was then taken by the Turks and carried into Argiers, where he lived and dyed in the Misery of perpetual Slavery. Laura to avoid her pro∣portion of Punishment, made her Escape from Corduba, and her Body was five days after found miserably torn and mangled in the Wood of Macardis.

Thus Don Pedro like the wily Serpent in Paradice, first tempts Paulinta, to inquire those forbidden Secrets of De Blinco (the Devils Emissary) which have no Record but in the claspt Book of Providence; for which he is justly Branded with an ignominious Letter. Adulterous Pau∣linta suffers her Punishment, where she first enjoy'd the Pleasures of her Sin; and De Blinco is whipt here with Scorpions, and Furies hereafter.

HIST. IV. Parmel and Cleandra.

Dr. Parmel by an Opiate Powder debauches Cleandra, gets her with Child and marries her. Cleandra in Revenge commits Adultery with Seignior Makenti, her former Lo∣ver; Dr. Parmel first gives her the foul Disease, and then designing to poyson her, by mistake poysons himself. Clean∣dra dyes miserably in the Lazaretto, and Makenti lives infamously having lost his Nose and both his Eyes.

SEignior Conto, was •• Gentleman of great Worth and Abilities, who upon the Death of Seignior Bardi, was one of those many Candidates for the Procurator∣ship of St. Mark at Venice, which was now become vacant: But Fortune not favouring his designs, and the potency of his Adversaries, prevailing against his Interest (though no Person had better deserv'd of that Republick) lost it▪ upon this, (seeing the merit of all his former Services disesteem'd) retir'd from Venice in discontent, and fixt at Marli his Country House five miles distant. Seigni∣or Conto was Master of a very considerable Estate, and blest with one only Child a Daughter, and nam'd Cleandra, whose native Beauty, vertuous Education, and the Honour of her Family, made her highly valued by all; but amongst the crowd of Suitors who made their Addresses to her, Seignior Makenti a Person of great Estate and a Gentleman of Venice, was that happy Man, who had gain'd the Affections of the Daughter, and Respect of her Parents; and in the Opinion of the World, would carry the beautiful Prize from the rest of the numerous Pretenders.

At this time, a young Gentleman whose name was Seignior Parmel, having lately commenced Dr. of Physick at Padua, (whose Father had been Seignior Conto's inti∣mate and familiar Acquaintance at Venice) came over to Marli to make a Visit to Seignior Conto and his La∣dy, who at first sight was so enamour••d on the Beauty

of Cleandra, that though his discretion forbid him ma∣king any publick Application to her, who was a For∣tune beyond his reach; yet he flatter'd himself with hopes of Success, if he could by any means divert the intended Marrige between her and Makenti. In this Design one lucky Accident advantag'd him more than all his Wit and Invention could do; for there happening a Quarrel between Seignior Makenti and Seignior Las∣suno, upon discourse of Seignior Conto's missing the Pro∣curatorship of St. Mark, after several sharp Expressions on both sides, Seignior Lassuno drew his Dagger, and suddenly stab'd Seignior Makenti into the Breast four inches deep, and immediately made his escape. Chirur∣gions were sent for who drest Makenti's Wound, tel∣ling him they hop'd to make a good Cure of it, for though it was very deep it had miss'd the Vitals, which in six weeks time they effected. The great loss of Blood Makenti suffer'd, threw him into a Consumption, upon which he was remov'd to Padua, where he continued for three months with small hopes of Recovery. In this time Dr. Parmel made frequent Visits at Seignior Conto's, and by his insinuating Carriage and Behavi∣our had gain'd a more than ordinary Friendship in the Family; but yet considering the vast dis-proportion be∣tween his Quality and Fortune, and Seignior Conto's; never durst discover to the Father or Daughter, that Love and Affection which lay smothering in his Breast. After several Considerations how to effect his Purpose, at last he resolv'd to try how far the misterious Secrets of his own Art and Profession could assist his Design, and accordingly one day prepar'd an Opiate Powder, which he had compounded of such Ingredients as he thought most proper, and waited an Opportunity to give it Cleandra in such a Vehicle, as would admit no Disco∣very.

Three days after in the Evening Dr. Parmel came down from his Study, and found Cleandra in the Kitchin making a pot of Chocolate, for the Entertainment of

some Friends in the Parlour; Cleandra offer'd him a Dish, who thanked her, and said he would accept it upon Terms that she would drink another, which being agreed too, he privately convey'd the Opiate Powder into her Mess, without any Suspition. About an hour after the Powder began to operate so effectually, that though she endeavour'd to divert the Drowsiness which had so strangely crept upon her, by walking in the Garden, and other violent Agitation, yet at last it pre∣vail'd, and she was forc't to retire to her Chamber, where she repos'd herself upon the Bed, charm'd into a deep Sleep by the powerful Medicine. Dr. Parmel narrowly watch'd her, and seeing her go into the Cham∣ber followed after, and there found her upon the Bed fast asleep; whereupon observing the rest of the Family were otherwise busied thought he might now securely, prosecute his wicked Design and locking the Chamber Door, treacherously robb'd sleeping Cleandra of her Honour and Virginity, which her waking Vertue had constantly defended against all the Temptations of Lust and Charms of Love. The Doctor having thus far ac∣complish'd his Ends, opened the Door and went out undiscover'd, leaving Cleandra fast asleep, who continu∣ed so for several hours till the soporific Vertue of the Powder was extinguished, and then wak'd without being in the least sensible of the Injury she had received from those villanious Practices of the Doctor, but as plea∣sing Dreams or the sportive Frolicks of Fancy and Ima∣gination presented her with▪ Dr. Parmel two days after took his leave and return'd to Venice, expect∣ing with Impatience, the Issue of this odd Expe∣riment.

Five Months after, Seignior Makenti whose Recove∣ry had been retarded by frequent Relapses, return'd to Marli in perfect Health, and earnestly desired that his Espousals with the fair Cleandra might now be no longer deferred, which his own Misfortune had been the unhappy cause of; but being acquainted that his Mi∣stress

had for some time been very much indispos'd and now kept her Chamber, desired to see her, whom he found so strangely alter'd, he scarce knew her to be the same, but by the faint Remains of that flourishing Beau∣ty which had once reign'd in her Face, and made a Conquest of his Heart. Seignior Makenti was equally surpriz'd and griev'd to see her in this Condition, she was grown pale and lean, her Eyes were livid and hol∣low, and all the expressions of her Tongue, spoke an in∣ward and setled discontent of Mind. Seignior Conto and his Lady were no less afflicted, and advised with se∣veral of the most eminent Physitians, what should be the Cause of her Distemper, and what the most proper and speedy Cure; they all agreed she was with Child, and her Disease no other than the natural Infirmities of Women in such Cases, which her Parents heard with Horrour and Amazement. The Doctors being gone, her Father and Mother with Tears in their Eyes con∣jur'd her to tell the Truth, and discover who was that lustful Paramour that had despoyl'd her of her Honour, and brought that stain and infamy upon their Family, which all their Tears were not able to wash away. Cleandra with no less trouble and astonishment, deny'd the Guilt of such lewd Debaucheries, and by all the Sa∣cred Powers of Heaven protested her Innocence and un∣spotted Chastity: The Sighs, Tears, and passionate Imprecations of Cleandra, perswaded her Parents at last to think the Doctors mistaken in their Judgments, and that the swelling of her Belly, which they considered as an Argument of her Pregnancy, was occasioned by a Tympany or some other Praeter-natural Tumour, which was the real Cause of her present Distemper.

Some time after Dr. Parmel came over to Marli and excus'd himself that the multitude of Business had made him so great a Stranger, and wanting in those respectful Visits their great Civilties obliged him to; and missing Cleandra at Dinner, particularly Inquir'd how she did, and if she was yet marrried? Her Mother answer'd

with a Sigh, that she was very ill and had been so for two months past, in which time she had not stirr'd out of her Chamber; Dr. Parmel seem'd very much con∣cern'd at the young Ladies illness, and desired he might be admitted to see her, and that he should think him∣self extreamly happy if the best of his Art and Skill could contribute any thing to her Recovery. Her Mother told him, she was afraid she already too well understood her Distemper, which in due time Nature would dis∣charge of it self, and that indeed she was asham'd any Friend should see her in that Condition, which would end in Shame to her self, and Disgrace to all her Relati∣ons. The Dr. seem'd wholly ignorant of what she meant (though extreamly pleas'd at the success of his Design) and still more earnestly prest to see her, which at last she consented to, and conducted him to Cleandra's Chamber, whom he found alone extreem Pensive and Melancholy. The Doctor after he had exprest his Respects and Sorrow for her present illness, desired to feel her Pulse, and after several other critical Observations more for form than any thing else, told her Mother her Di∣stemper now would not be of long Continuance, that she was certainly with Child, and all that he could di∣rect was as a Friend and not a Physitian, that they would prevail with her to confess who was the Father, and by a speedy Marriage, prevent that Disgrace, which otherwise was unavoidable; whereupon the Mo∣ther desired him to use his Endeavours with her, to discover the Person, and that she would withdraw, that Cleandra might with more Freedom discourse him, and accordingly did so. After the Dr. had said what he thought convenient, in pursuit of that Question which he himself was only able to answer, he took his leave and told her Mother that was he not assur'd by all those in∣fallible Symptoms he had observ'd that she was with Child, her solemn Protestations to the contrary, would almost perswade him to credit what she had said in her own

Vindication: upon which her Mother ask'd him if it was possible for a Woman to Conceive in her Sleep, without being sensible of those Pleasures of Fruition, and the Person she enjoy'd; to which the Dr. answe∣red it was possible, and that we might observe it in several Persons who walk in their Sleep, and do those several Acts of which they have no remembrance when they wake. This one Argument prevail'd with Seigni∣or Conto and his Lady, to believe Cleandra was with Child, and at the same time innocent of the Guilt and ignorant of the Person; for she had oftentimes walked about her Chamber, and sometimes down into the Dai∣ry, and so to Bed again, without remembring one tittle of it next morning.

After several Considerations what was to be done in a matter of so much difficulty, and that did they know the real Father, he might possibly prove to be the Groom or Footman, where the discredit and reproach of such a Match would be equal to the infamous Name of Cour∣tezan; the Dr. told them that if they thought him a worthy Husband for Cleandra, he would marry her immediately, nor did he value her being with Child, nor who was the Father, since he was so well satisfied her Soul was immaculate and pure, though her Reputa∣tion was stain'd; and that the preserving of her Fame, and the Honour of so illustrious a Family, was more dear to him than any private Interest or Respect to him∣self. Seignior Conto was infinitely pleas'd to hear the Dr. express himself in those Terms, and after his most particular Thanks, told him he would endeavour in few days to dispose Cleandra to the Match, which he did, and ten dayes after they were privately married, not long after, Seignior Conto and his Lady both dyed and left their whole Estate to Dr. Parmel, and his Chil∣dren by Cleandra; who now lived at Marli in great esteem and Reputation.

It happened one day after Dinner, the Doctor being in a most pleasant Humour, and the Discourse of the Com∣pany leading to it, he told them by what Trick he had married a Person of that Quality and Estate Cleandra was; at which they seem'd very much surpriz'd, but in Compliment commended his Design, which had now crown'd him with so bountiful a Success. Cleandra bit her Lip, and by change of Colour, discovered the in∣ward perplexity of her Thoughts, nor could she alto∣gether refrain from some passionate expressions of her Resentment, that she should lye under the great Scan∣dal of a Whore, and lose her Lover Makenti whom she loved dearer than her Life, and be so basely betray'd into a Marriage with so mean and perfidious a Wretch as the Doctor was. Some time after she writ a Letter to Makenti, and acquainted him with all the Circumstances of this Relation, who was extreamly troubled at it; and upon the first Discourse of her being with Child, had utterly forsaken her and never since seen her. The Discovery of this Intrigue, created a more particular Love and Respect between Makenti and Cleandra, who readily agreed, to revenge the Injury they had both re∣ceiv'd from the faithless Doctor, by abusing his Bed in their Adulterous Enjoyments, and charging his Forehead with the shameful Emblem of a Cuckold, which they thought the heinousness of the provocation, would war∣rant them in. Thus did they continue in their Adul∣terous Pleasures, till the Doctor grew sensible of it, and by frequent Observations of their private Meetings, was sufficiently confirm'd in the Truth of their lustful Em∣braces; whereupon he resolv'd to meet them with a proportionate Revenge which he thus effected. Having a young Gentlewoman under Cure, who was very much afflicted with the Venerial Distemper, he de∣signedly infected himself with it, which he communica∣ted to his Wife, and she to Makenti, who neither of them suspecting the present Cause of their Illness, were so surpriz'd by the Venom of the Disease, that Makenti

in a short time lost his Nose and both his Eyes, and hardly escap'd with Life, spending the rest of his days in Shame and Repentance, Cleandra languish'd a long time in great Misery, which her Husband saw with Pleasure and Satisfaction, and growing weary at last to see her Distemper so tedious in the Punishment he design'd, prepar'd a Cordial for her in which he infus'd a large Dose of Poyson, and recommending it to her as a great Restorative to take at three in the afternoon, went abroad expecting at his Return to find her in the Agonies of Death. Dr. Parmel coming back very hot and faint (it being the midst of August) went directly to her Chamber, and sitting down by the Beds-side took a Glass of Cordial Drink, which stood by amongst the rest, and hastily drank it 〈…〉〈…〉 kindly askiing her how she did, and what good 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••und by that Cor∣dial he had order'd her; I have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 taken it, said Cleandra, and don't design it till to 〈…〉〈…〉 for I find my self much better than I was; at which 〈…〉〈…〉 started and call'd for it, when the Maid 〈…〉〈…〉 that was i•• you drank Sir; at which he cry'd 〈…〉〈…〉 poyson'd; I am poyson'd; and sent for his Confe••••or, to whom he re∣lated his intended Design of poysoning his Wife, which he was now heartily sorry for, and in two hours fell in∣to Violent Convulsions, and dyed in great Torment. Cleandra continued in a most sad and deplorable Con∣dition, and was afterwards remov'd to the Lazaretto, where she dyed in Misery and Ignominy.

Thus we see vitious Lives end in infamous Deaths, and the subtle Dr. Parmel at last deceiv'd himself; and was overtaken by a Punishment as just as unexpected The lustful Makenti, and the fair but unchast Clean∣dra receive their Torment by the poysonous Sting of those Pleasures they so Lasciviously and Adulterously de∣lighted in.

HIST. V. Bertolin and Aurella.

Monsieur Bertolin commits Adultery with Aurella, Mon∣sieur Chapee's Wife, his intimate Friend; upon the Disco¦very whereof she stabs her self. Monsieur Chapee in Revenge cheats Orinta, in the disguise of Bertolin her Husband, and lyes with her; Bertolin surprizes them in Bed, mortally Wounds Orinta, and is then kill'd by Cha∣pee, who is apprehended and Executed for the Murther and Adultery.

IN the Reign of that August and noble Prince, Henry the 4th King of France, the Marquess of Conti was made Governour of Orleans, in whose Family Monsieur Bertolin and Monsieur Chapee, two young Gentlemen of Noble Birth, and related to the Marquess and his Lady, receiv'd their Education and first Instructions in Arms and Military Discipline: the equality of their Age and Fortunes with their constant Society, rendered them by degrees most intimate and familiar Friends; and if their outward Shape and Features could add any thing to the inward Harmony of their Affections; never were two Persons more alike, they appear'd the same, distinguish'd only by the different Appellations of Ber∣tolin and Chapee. But as the figure of their Bodies so nearly resembled each other, so their Temper of Mind was as much unlike, Bertolin was proud and ••aughty, of a Courage that rather fear'd no Evil than lov'd whats Good, Chapee was modest and humble lov'd Goodness for it's own native Beauty, and thought nothing so base and degenerous in a Gentleman as Sin and Wickedness At this time dyed Monsieur le Farin great Unkle to the Marquess, and left his Estate to Aurella a young Lady and his Neece, the Care of whose Person and Fortune he committed to the Marquess of Conti and his Lady, un∣der whose prudent Government, she receiv'd all the ac∣complishments of a Religious and Vertuous Lady.

The constant Conversation of Bertolin and Chapee with Aurella, and the consideration of her Fortune, which was very great, soon fired their Hearts with the Flames of Love and Affection towards her. The mo∣desty of Aurella, her excellent Beauty and sweetness of Temper, were Charms able to warm the most frozen Breast, with zeal to her Person and admiration of her Vertue. These two Rivals made their Courtship to Aurella in Smiles and Glances, and all those little Ser∣vices which might render them grateful to her, in which Bertolin and Chapee endeavoured to outdoe each other, but still with that Respect and Friendship, that no Clouds of Jealousie appear'd by any outward ex∣pressions of Disrespect. They us'd often to Hunt to∣gether, and one Morning, Chapee sent his Servant to Bertolin to acquaint him, he was going abroad a Hunt∣ing and desir'd his Company: Bertolin return'd his Thanks, and told him he was yet in Bed, but would rise and follow after; who did so, but when he came into the Field, as he soon found the rest of the Company so he mist Chapee, and inquiring where he was, they answer'd, he came out with them, but the Dogs making a default by yonder Copse he rid in, and since they had nor seen him. Bertolin after four hours stay, (Chapee not yet coming, and the Sport growing cold) return'd home where he expected to have met him, but the Groom told him he went abroad in the Morning, with the Dogs and had not been at home since, where∣upon he went to Aurella's Chamber, where her Maid answered she was gone out in the Coach alone upon a Visit to Pontaret. The Weather being hot and Bertolin weary with his Mornings Exercise, he went to his Chamber, where after a turn or two, he lay down and drew the Curtains: a quarter of an hour after Chapee, and Aurella coming by his Chamber (the same Stairs leading to her Apartment) saw the door open and no Body there; and supposing Bertolin was yet in the Field walked in; but no sooner had they begun to express

the constancy and sincerity of their Affection to each other, but they saw the Marquess coming cross the Court with intent as they suspected to visit Aurella, upon which Chapee, hastily asked if he should not that night be happy in her arms? Yes my dear, said Aurella, come between eleven and twelve, when my Maid is gone to her Chamber, and give three scratches upon the Door with your hand, let that be the signal and I will open it and let you in, The Marquess was now coming up the stairs, and Chapee and Aurella being unwilling he should see them together immediately parted.

Bertolin overheard this discourse, and presently sus∣pected Chapee had dealt deceitfully with him by inviting him abroad to Hunt, that he might alone enjoy the beau∣tiful Aurella, which he had reason to believe from the freedom of their late Discourse, and that Chapee so soon left the Field, and when he came back found Aurella was gone out, who had no doubt made an Assignation to meet him, of which this was the Result that Chapee should that night be admitted to Aurella's Bed, to which promise his own Ears were Witnesses. Bertolin who ever had a most passionate Love for Aurella, and al∣ways believed her of unspotted Reputation and un∣questionable Vertue; now began to exclaim against all her false and counterfeit pretensions to Mo∣desty; call'd her all the names of a Whore and Strum∣pet which did not so much trouble him that she was dishonest, of which he now made no question, but that he himself was not her happy Paramour, and to see Chapee preferr'd to those Pleasures to which his own Merit and Abilities gave him equal claim, was an af∣front he scorn'd to bear. However since he had a Re∣venge so sweet in his own power, he resolv'd to prose∣cute it, and supplant Chapee of those Delights Aurella had promis'd with more Lust in her than Desert in him: And having the Signal which would gain him admittance at the hour appointed, he concluded to make use of it to his own Advantage. Night being come and Supper

ended, Aurella retir'd to her Chamber, and Bertolin endeavour'd to engage Chapee in Company with some Gentlemen of their Acquaintance at Cards, whilst he attended the lucky hour; which he did with so much Artifice, excusing himself that he was very ill of a pain in his Head, and desir'd to withdraw to his Cham∣ber, that Chapee was oblig'd in Civility to his Friends, to stay with them, though he intended not to forfeit Aurella's Promise by two strict an observance of the Rules of Friendship and good Manners. Bertolin went up to his Chamber and undrest, diligently waiting till he heard Aurella's Maid go out of her Chamber, and then in his Gown and Slippers went softly up, and scratched three times upon her Door, she presently rose and opened it; the Candle was gone for fear the light might give any occasion of Suspition, and Au∣rella took Bertolin by the hand and led him to her Bed, gently whispering him not to speak for fear they should be over-heard by the Lady in the next Cham∣ber.

Whilst Bertolin was revelling in stoln Delights, and ri∣fling the richest Jewel in the whole Treasury of Love, Chapee came to the Door and scratch'd three times, according to Aurella's Directions, which Bertolin heard, but Aurella's Senses were all lost, and dissolv'd in Rap∣tures of Bliss. Chapee for fear of being discovered, went discontedly back to his Chamber, accusing the innocent Aurella of Treachery and Injustice, and cursing his unhappy Stars which first inclin'd him to Love and believe false and deceitful Women. In the morning ear∣ly Bertolin stole from Aurella's arms, leaving her fast a∣sleep and went to his own Chamber and so to Bed; his languishing Spirits coveted a Refreshment, and each weary Member a quiet Repose. Aurella according to her Custom hearing the Bell toll to Chappel, drest and went to Prayers, where she saw Chapee with a sad and dejected Countenance like one who had been all night under the severities of Pennance, which she little sus∣spected

had been true in the literal sense. Prayers being done, Aurella went up to her Chamber and Cha∣pee followed, and upon the Stairs with a stern look told her, he thought his present Title to her Affections had been of more value with her than to be so slighted, and her promise more sacred to him than so easily violated. Aurella reply'd I am sorry my Dear, you did not reap the satisfaction you expected, I had thought our endearments had been mutual and our Happiness equal in our exalted Ioys. The Marquess at that word call'd Chapee, which broke off the Discourse. Aurella went up to her Chamber ve∣ry much dissatisfied with Chapee's Behaviour and Ex∣pressions, and he no less concern'd at her Reply won∣dring with himself, what could be the sense and mean∣ing of it.

Bertolin was now risen, and according to his Custom went to walk in the Garden, where he found Aurella gathering Flowers and her Maid at a distance from her, upon which he addressed himself to her with this Com∣pliment; These Flowers Madam are happy to be gather'd by your fair Hands, but certainly much happier is that Man who shall crop the blushing Rose of your Virginity; Aurella started at the Expression, and told him those were Flowers in Discourse, which she did not understand nor know how to answer. Bertolin proceeded, is the memo∣ry of last nights Enjoyments so soon faded? Madam I assure you the relish of it is yet fresh in my Fancy, and my unwearied Imagination e'ry minute repeats those Pleasures with fresh Delights; Aurella was strangely surpriz'd at his Dis∣course, and after a little pause told him, she had quite forgot all Riddles, and he that made them was best a∣ble to explain them. Whereupon Monsieur Bertolin, discovered the Secret, telling her how happily he had over-heard their discourse, and the advantage he had made of it, and that if it was a Crime, he hop'd that absolute Royalty of Love, which encouraged him to the Trangression would pardon the fault. Aurella heard him with Wonder and Astonishment, and with

a deep sigh answered, Alas Monsieur! Your mistaken suspi∣tion of my Dishonesty, will prove your Unhappiness and my Ruine! Our Loves were not unchast as you imagin'd, I was yesterday privately married at Pontaret to Monsieur Chapee, and the Signal I gave him to enter my Chamber, was to compleat our Religious Vows in innocent Embraces, you have for ever undon me, your Friend and your self— Oh, Oh, and with that swoon'd away, Bertolin call'd her Maid to assist him, by whose help they carried her to her Cham∣ber, where she continued all day extreamly ill. Mon∣sieur Chapee was presently acquainted with it, who came to know the reason; to whom Aurella with showers of Tears related all the passages of the last nights Trans∣actions adding in the close, since we are so unfortunate in our Love, Heaven pardon me, and comfort you; I will ra∣ther choose to Sacrifice my Life to the Memory of my lost Honour, and dye a Martyr to my Vertue, than live with the Shame and Ignominy of a Strumpet, and at that word struck a Ponyard to her Heart of which she immmediately dy∣ed.

Monsieur Bertolin, upon the first notice of Aurella's Tragical end, took Horse for Paris, where he con∣tinued some time, and then travell'd into Spain and Italy, and after three years return'd to Paris, where he setled and married Orinta, Monsieur Cardans eldest Daughter, a Lady who had ingross'd all the perfecti∣ons of her Sex in her single self. Monsieur Chapee was for some time, distracted with that torment of Grief which now seem'd to over-whelm him, but after two years time recovered his Senses, and vow'd a severe Revenge, should only quit scores with so treacherous a Friend and degenerous an Enemy.

Monsieur Chapee, after several inquiries, at last heard Monsieur Bertolin was return'd to France and married at Paris, where he lived in great State and Splendour; this refresh'd his Memory, with the heynousness of that injury he had formerly offer'd him, and the loss of so Vertuous a Wife who suffered upon his Account,

which now whetted his anger to a sharp Revenge, and exacted from him the Justice of as rigorous Punishment. After several considerations in what proper method he should challenge a satisfaction, he resolv'd to Pistoll him as cowardly, as he had treacherously abus'd him; but this not so well consisting with the Honour and Gallantry of Chapee, to take a base and ignoble Revenge; upon second thoughts, he resolv'd to pay him in his own Coyn, and make his abuse to Aurella, the square of his Revenge on Bertolin, to this purpose, he went privately to Paris, where after he had learnt where Bertolin liv'd, he lodg'd himself hard by, and narrowly watch'd his going abroad, and at last by some Spyes he hir'd to that purpose understood that three days after he design'd to follow the Court to St. Germans where he intended to stay a Week, and leave his Lady Orinta at home. No sooner was Bertolin gone his Journey, but in the Evening late he came to his House, in the same Tra∣velling Habit as Bertolin wore, which rendred him so like, that his very Servants receiv'd him as their Master; but for fear of any Discovery, he had brib'd Orinta's Woman with a Purse of Gold, in which were a hundred Pistolls, who was ready below to receive him, and conduct him to his Ladys Chamber, who was just gone to Bed. Orinta no sooner saw him, but believing him to be her Husband cry'd out, O Lord my Dear, I hope you have met with no misfortune, I did not expect you so soon; No said Chapee with a low voice, I forgot a Paper I must give to the Secretary of State, which was the occasion of my Return, I must go back to morrow early and therefore I'le make hast to Bed; upon which he undrest and stept into Bed, where no man had ever better Opportunity or Encouragement to the Sweets of Revenge than Chapee now had. About twelve, the real Monsieur Bertolin return'd, having accidentally met with some Friends 3 miles out of Town, who diverted his Jour∣ney for two or three days, upon promise they would bear him Company, if he would defer it till then, and

spend the day with them at Bowls, which he accepted of. Bertolin came hastily into his Chamber, without the least suspition of finding a Gallant in Bed with his Wife, whom he no sooner saw, without distinguishing who he was, but he pass'd at his Wife with his Sword who lay next, and ran her deep into the left Breast: Chapee suddenly stept out of Bed, and catching his Sword which lay naked by, prevented Bertolin's Revenge upon himself, by running him through the Heart of which Wound he dropt down dead upon the place. The next morning Orinta dyed with great Pity and Lamentation for her unnhappy end. Monsieur Chapee was presently apprehended, who voluntarily confess'd the Murther which he was forc't to in his own Defence; and the reason of his Adultery with Orinta (of which she was altogether innocent) that he might satisfie the Injuries he had receiv'd from Monsieur Bertolin in a proportiona∣ble Revenge, for which he was condemn'd to lose his Head before the Bastile in Paris, which two days after was executed accordingly.

He that cherishes one Sin because is it but one, entertains a Legion of Devils in the singular Number, which like the seeming Viper is big with a poysonous Offspring of nu∣merous Enemies.

Thus Monsieur Bertolin, thought Lust but a weak Enemy which once admitted, soon ripen'd into three Murthers, two Adulteries, and his own shameful and fatal Execu∣tion.

HIST. VI. St. Quintin and Cloissa.

The Count of St. Quintin commits Adultery with Lovisia Countess of St. Denis, and kills her Husband in a Duell; whereupon he flyes to Antwerp, and there debauches Clo∣issa, Wife to the Heer Van Zetken. The House being accidentally fir'd, Cloissa is supposed burnt in it, but is preserv'd by the Count. They live in Adultery, till he falling from his Horse, is drag'd dead to her Door; upon which she is discovered and dyes suddenly.

THe Count of St. Quintin, was a Cavalier eminently known in the Court of France, for his Intrigue with Madamoyselle Lovisia, Wife to the Earl of St. Denis; The Count her Husband growing sensible of the Injury and Disgrace he received from St. Quintin, sent him a Challenge, upon which they met in an adja∣cent Field to Fountain-bleau, where St. Denis was mortally wounded, of which in six Weeks after he dyed▪ St. Quintin withdrew himself for some time, and when he heard of the Death of St. Denis, made his escape to Antwerp, chief Town in the Marquisate of the Empire, in the Dukedom of Brabant; his Lady and the rest of his Family follow'd after, where he continued till the Justice of Heaven punish'd his present and former De∣baucheries by a Tragical and deserved Death.

At this time the Heer Van Zetken was Governour of Antwerp, to whom the Count of St. Quintin upon his first arrival made his Compliment, and was receiv'd by him with all the expressions of Respect and Kindness, due to a Gentleman of his Quality and Grandeur. The Count seeing himself daily oblig'd by the Civilites of the Governour, pay'd his acknowledgments to him in constant Visits, which by degrees rendred them most intimate and familiar Acquaintance. The generous Hospitality of the Governour, often invited St. Quintin to his House, and the courtly behaviour of the Earl

made him a welcome and acceptable Guess. These frequent Enterviews, gave him the opportunity of a free Converse with his Lady Cloissa, whose Beauty was a∣lone able to subdue an Empire, and her Wit Command it. But alas Cloissa's Beauty was not adorn'd with Honesty, nor her Wit inspir'd with Grace. St. Quin∣tin (whose Inclinations were always Amorous) soon dis∣covered the imperfections of Cloissa, and how to attaque the Fort where it was least capable of resistance. To this end, he courted all opportunities of Address to her, in which he behav'd himself with that Artifice and Cun∣ning, that his sutble Charms soon won Cloissa's Heart, and made her a Slave to his Lust, whose Honour and Chastity had they equall'd her Wit and Beauty, would have made her an Angel on Earth, and a Saint in Heaven.

The great Observance and profound Respects the Earl of St. Quintin constantly paid Cloissa, were dili∣gently remarqu'd by Captain Cassel, a young Gentle∣man, and an Officer in the Town, who was deeply enamour'd with her Beauty, and promis'd himself that happy Conquest, which he now presum'd the Gallantry and courtship of the Count had rob'd him of; this made him resolute in his Revenge, which his Interest and Familiarity with the Governour in some Measure gave him an Opportunity to effect, which he endeavou∣red in this manner. Being one day alone, with the Governour in his Closet, he took occasion to commend the Count for a most compleat Gentleman, adding that if he was as great a Soldier, as he was an accomplish'd Courtier, he believ'd his Valour and Conduct would render him no less successful in War, than he was now prosperous in all his Amorous Encounters, with the fai∣rer Sex. Say you so? said the Governour, is t••e Count of St. Quintin, so great an Artist in the affairs of Love? Yes my Lord, said Captain Cassel, and has Confidence enough to tempt a Nun, if once his Breast is warm'd with the heats of Passion and Desire. You would make me Iealous said the

Governour, did I not believe you are mistaken in your Cha∣racter of him; I have oftentimes observ'd his familiar Free∣dom with my Wife, but never yet question'd his Honour or her Honesty. Heaven forbid, replyed the Captain, no doubt but the fair Cloissa, is Vertuous too, Chast and Uncorrupt as the falling Snow or Virgin Fountain; but this once shed upon the Earth, is trod by every common Foot, and those Waters which were pure in their Original Bed, do often lodge in dirty Ditches, and by the dangerous Neighbourhood of Filth at last incorporate with it, and become polluted Streams. I mean Sir the Devil tempted Eve, and she yielded to it. But though I believe the Count of St. Quintin dare be a Devil in his Temptation; yet I hope Cloissa will never be an Eve in her Complyance. This Discourse fir'd the Governours Breast with Jealousie and Suspition, and to add more Fuel to the Flame, looking accidentally out of the Win∣dow, he saw the Count and Cloissa walking hand in hand in the Garden; but being at that instant acquain∣ted that some of the principal Officers of the Town attended him in the Hall, he broke off the Discourse and went immediately down to them.

Two days after, the Count receiv'd this Letter from one of his Footmen which was delivered to him in the Streets by an unknown Person with Orders to carry it immediately to his Lord,

Cloissa to the Count of St. Quintin.

My Lord,

THe Iealousie of my Husband (notwithstanding our Care and Secrecy) begins to suspect my Friendship to you ex••ceeds the Bounds of my Faith to him, and Honour to my self; for which reason, he hath severely checkt me, and confin'd me to my Chamber; But all his cruelty shall never divide my Heart from you, though at present he denys me the enjoyment of your Company, and those ravishing Pleasures I covet with equal Ardour. I suppose Captain Cassel (whose Courtship I always entertain'd with a Frown, and slighted his want

of Merit with my constant Disrespect) is the sole cause of it, whose Insolence, your Prudence and Courage know best how to correct. Farewell my Dear Lord, and be as constant in your Love to me, as I am sincere in my Affection to you, which shall never Expire, but with the dying Breath of your

Cloissa.

The Count upon the Receipt of this Letter, was very much concern'd for the distress of Cloissa, but not knowing how to remedy it, at present conceal'd his Resentments; and least he should give further Suspition of his Guilt to the Governour, by the discontinuance of his Visits, made them as frequent as before, still ex∣pressing his Respect to him, with the same serene Coun∣tenance and easie Freedom he us'd to do. He had now leisure to meditate a Revenge on Captain Cassel, but considering him as a particular Favourite of the Go∣vernours, he thought it not discretion to give him any publick Affront; but understanding he had an Intrigue with Olivia (the Daughter of one Caldus a Shoemaker, who was dead) and by fair promises had got her with Child, and now deserted her; he privately by Bautrin his Taylour, encourag'd her to complain to the Gover∣nour, which she did, and expos'd the Captain to the discourse of the Town, in his Name and Reputation, but without any advantage to her self. This so in∣cens'd Olivia, who had the Courage of an Amazon and the Malice of a Woman, that she swore a Revenge, and Bautrin acquainted the Count with her Resolution, who order'd Bautrin to animate her in it, and tell her, that Cassel was a dastardly Captain, and if she sent him a Challenge in the name of some Friend of hers he would never dare to fight, but sign what Terms she offered. Olivia who was of a bold undaunted Spirit, approv'd his Advice, saying, if she had but Cloaths, Horse and Arms, she would immediately prosecute it; which Bautrin pro∣mised, and two days after furnished her with all Ne∣cessaries, that she wanted nothing now but an Opportu∣nity

to engage her Enemy, and revenge herself on the faithless and treacherous Captain. Olivia being thus equipp'd by the directions of Bautrin sent Captain Cassel this Challenge by a private Footman in an unknown Livery.

For Captain Cassel.

THe Injury you have done poor Olivia, whose Innocence and Vertue you have basely betrayed, obliges me to demand satisfaction of you; as I am a Gentleman and a Sol∣dier I am engaged by the honour of both, to relieve the distressed; for which and no other Reason, I expect you alone, at five to morrow morning on Horseback with Sword and Pistol, in the Field next the North-gate, without the Wall, where the Courage of my Heart and Iustice of my Cause, shall make you as infamous in your Death, as you have been vitious in your Life

Polyntus.

The Captain receiv'd this Challenge with Wonder and Surprize, inquir'd of the Footman who his Master was, but he being instructed to the contrary, told him he had no Orders to resolve any Questions, but return with his Answer; which the Captain with some trou∣ble and disorder told him he should have, and bid him acquaint his Master, he would not fail to meet him upon the Word of a Gentleman and Reputation of a Soldier, at the time and place appointed. These Champions met accordingly, and the Female Warriour without any Compliment discharg'd a Pistol, which wounded the Captain in the left Shoulder, upon which he immediately desir'd a Parley, and promis'd the pre∣sent payment of a hundred Pistols, to compose the Quarrel, which Olivia accepted of, and an hour after re∣ceived them at his Quarters, and then discovered her self: For the bravery of this Action, Olivia was highly commended of all, and the Captain so scorn'd and flouted that he immediately quitted his Command and retir'd into the Country to a private Life.

The Count made very good advantage of Captain Cassels Disgrace, and so well improv'd it, that the Gover∣nour reflecting on the Debauchery of the Captain, which was so notoriously apparent, began to think the Count innocent of his Aspersions, and Cloissa truly Ver∣tuous; upon which he soon after took off her restraint, but still watch'd her Behaviour with an observing Eye. This the Count was sensible of, which made them both so cautious to prevent new Fears and Jealousies in the Husband, that they never durst exchange a Smile or one Amorous Glance but by stealth, and all their pre∣sent Delights, were but the empty effects of exalted imagination.

A Month after, the Governour appointed a Mask and invited the Count, his principal Officers and several Gentlemen of the Town, who all came in Masquera∣ding Habits; The Count had notice of it a Week be∣fore, and withal from Cloissa that her Husband had strictly charg'd her to keep her Chamber that night, for he did not think it proper she should appear, since he had only design'd the Entertainment for Gentlemen, nor was there any of her Sex to be admitted: This was a great affliction to Cloissa who had some hopes by the advantage, of her Disguise, to have had a more private Converse with the Count, which she saw her self now wholly debarr'd from. The Count having considered the Circumstances of time and place, communicated his design to an intimate Acquaintance, and desir'd him to be there drest in the same Habit exactly with himself, but to stand in a Corner where he might not be taken no∣tice of, with a Cloak on, and not to appear till he gave him his Q. to enter. After two hours Diversion, they were all conducted into the Dining-Room where they had a noble and splendid Entertainment, and pulling off their Masks, paid their mutual Respects to one another. The collation being over they return'd to the Hall, and the Count withdrew to his Friend, where he put on his Cloak, and sent him into the Hall to Masquerade

his Person, who was so like him in the Proportion of his Body, Stature and Habit, that the most critical Eye, could not distinguish him. The Count was immediate∣ly conducted to Cloissa's Apartment by Lydia her Wo∣man, where the Lovers feasted their longing desires in the unbounded Joys of their Adulterous and Lascivious Passions.

In the midst of their Pleasures above, the Footmen and Servants were Revelling in Drunkenness below; whereby their Carelesness and Neglect of their Flam∣beaux, the Room was fir'd, which burnt so furiously that in an instant, Cloissa's Chamber which was over∣head, was in a bright Flame before they were sensible of it. The Gentlemen in the Hall were strangely sur∣prized with the lowd Outcryes of Fire, and as little able to assist in the extinguishing the Flames, as their drunken Servants; but each made hast away to preserve him self. The Count and Cloissa by the Care and Diligence of Lydia, had more early notice of the Danger and al∣most choak'd with the Smoak, with great difficulty got down the back Stairs; and thus they all three sav'd-themselves from the rage of the devouring Flames. No sooner were they got safe into the Court, but the Roof fell down, and the Count spreading his Cloak over Cloissa (who was in her Night Gown) carried her to his Coach, and with her and Lydia went to his Friends Lodgings, who had personated him in the Hall, who presently came in, in great Horror and Affright, believing the Count (who he knew was in Cloissa's Cham∣ber) had been burnt with her, for the Report at the House, was, that Cloissa and her Maid had both suffer'd in the Flames.

The next day, the Count disposed Cloissa and Lydia, to a private Lodging three miles off in the Country where he made his constant Visits to her, and without controul indulg'd himself in her lustful Arms, and the dissolute Pleasures of her Adulterous Bed. The Gover∣nour her Husband sadly lamented her Loss and continu∣ed

in close Mourning for her a Twelvemonth after; which she often had the pleasure to see and smile at, as often as she met him in the Streets, where she never appear'd in her Coach, but with her Mask on. Thus they continued for two years, riotous in their Pleasures, only then most happy, when in their close Embraces they were most luxuriously wicked; till at last the Countess was privately acquainted with the Amours of her Husband; which he had so secretly manag'd that the Lady was yet undiscover'd. It happened one day that the Count being ready to go abroad to make his customary Visits to his Mistress, the Countess earnestly intreated him to stay within, adding she was not igno∣rant of his secret Pleasures, which she with more Passi∣on than Prudence charg'd him withal. The Count highly inrag'd, told her he should not forget her Insolence, nor should her Prayers or Tears prevail with him, though all the Devils in Hell oppos'd him in the way; at which he clapt Spurs, to his Horse and rid on with full speed: But had not gone above two miles, before his Horse threw him, and (his Foot hanging in the Stirrup) dragg'd him along the Road, till he had beat out his Brains; and coming to Cloissa's Lodgings, stopt at the door, who soon saw the wretched and deplorable end of her Unhappy and Adulterous Lover.

The Countess had presently notice of the miserable Death of her Husband, and in her Coach went directly to Cloissa's Lodgings (where his mangled Body lay) and here saw the most rueful Sight that ever Eyes beheld. After she had in some measure discharg'd her Grief in showers of Tears and lamentable Exclamations, she sent for the Officers, and desir'd, that the Strumpet who had been the sole cause of this Misfortune, might be appre∣hended and carried before the Governour, whose Justice she hop'd, would punish her according to the Quality of the Crime and her own Dem••rits. Cloissa and Lydia, were presently seiz'd and carried before the Governour where the Countess spar'd no Aggravations,

her Passion prompted her to, or the Circumstances of the thing admitted of. The Governour with an atten∣tive Ear, heard this dismal Relation, and express'd his Sorrow for the loss of so worthy a Gentleman and inti∣mate Friend as the Count was and then ordered the accurs'd Lady to make her defence, and withal, bid her and her Maid put up their Hoods and discover their Faces; which they delaying to do, the Officers pulled them off, when the Governour at first sight, knew her to be his Wife, and with surprize and wonder cryed out, It is my Wife, It is my Wife; at which words she drop'd down in a Swound from which she never recover'd. Lydia to the great Astonishment of the Governour and the numerous crowd of Spectators, gave a full Relation of all these Passages, which she had been privy to; whereupon she was committed to Prison, and a Week after condemn'd to be publickly whipt in the Market Place of Antwerp, and for ever banished the City.

He that goes on in a constant Course of Sin, runs on the De∣vils Errand, and like St. Quintin, rides Post to his own Execution: whilst the guilty Cloissa, conscious of her Shame, dyes suddenly under the horrour of her own Crimes, to prevent a more ignominious Punishment.

HIST. VII. Rigidoro and his two Sons.

Carollo, steals Corinna his Sister unknown, from the Nun∣nery of St. Bridget and lives in Incest with her; for which he is condemn'd to loose his Head, and she burnt. Erasto marries Favonia a common Strumpet, Rigidoro dis∣inherits him. He Murders his Father and flyes, is after∣wards taken by the Turks; commits Adultery with Adulla his Patron's Wife, whereupon she is strangled, and he flead alive. Favonia dyes miserably in the Burdellos of the foul Disease.

IN the Popedom of Pius Quintus, Seignior Rigidoro a-young extravagant Gentleman lived at Rome,

who according to the modish Gallantries of the Age, was a very compleat and fashionable Sinner, and fami∣liarly acquainted with Emilia a young Lady, by whom he had one Daughter nam'd Corinna; who (to prevent the Shame, and conceal the Lewdness of her Parents) was privately educated; and assoon as her Age had qualified her for the Vows of a Religious Life dispos'd to the Nunnery of St. Bridget. Presently after the Birth of Corinna, Rigidoro married Mariana the only daughter of Seignior Placento a Goldsmith; whose plentiful Fortune was above the Quality of her Family, and by her had two Sons Carollo and Erasto, and one Daughter. Carollo the eldest was no sooner arriv'd to those years which ought to have intitled him as discreet as manly; but he was e∣minently known through the whole City for the de∣baucheries of his Life and Conversation, which rendred him no less acceptable to the lewd and vitious, than he was abhorr'd and detested by all vertuous and sober Men. As he went one day with some Gentlemen to see the Nunnery of St. Bridget, where one of his Friends had a Sister lately entered, he had the Fortune to see a young Gentlewoman, whose Beauty suddenly inflam'd his Heart, with the wanton desires of Love; which he cherished, though but with slender hopes of accom∣plishing his Design, and reaping that satisfaction he so earnestly coveted; after he had inquired who she was he understood her name was Corinna, but her parents un∣known. Corinna was no less enamour'd of Carollo and growing weary of the smart and severe Discipline she was confin'd to, resolv'd to embrace the first Opportu∣nity to discharge her self of those sacred Fetters which rendred Carollo's Courtship more easie and successful. Not to relate all the Intrigues of their Love which were many, dark and mysterious, to prevent the suspition of the Lady-Abbess and the Holy-Sisters her Companions; Carollo in two months time gain'd her Heart, upon the promise of Marriage, and a Dispensation from the Pope, and at last by his Assistance, she made her Escape.

Corinna was lodged at Monsieur Torquato's House, his particular Friend, where her Name and all the Circum∣stances of her Quality, were so well disguis'd that no∣thing appear'd but what was just and honourable: And here he first gained the Enjoyment of his unlawful Plea∣sures under the umbrage and promise of future Matri∣mony, which he religiously swore to, and she credu∣lously believed. Carollo having now satiated his Lust, began to make his Visits more seldom, and was soon cloy'd with the Repetition of such unchast Delights. In the Interim, whilst they banqueted their Senses in the fruition of sacrilegious Pleasures, Corinna was discove∣red by the search made after her, and apprehended one night in the embraces of her lascivious Paramour, who was seiz'd by the same Officers, and both imprison'd till the Pope and the Conclave of Cardinals, were ac∣quainted with the Fact. Rigidoro was not long a stran∣ger to the Misfortune of his Son, but when he un∣derstood the Ladies Name was Corinna, his Daughter, and Carollo's Sister; he was so incens'd, that nothing could reconcile him, but resolv'd he himself would ra∣ther be the Prosecutor, than Carollo should not be pu¦nish'd according to his demerits. This present Fury of Rigidoro, was soon allay'd by his Natural Affection to his Son and Daughter, but his Passion and Indiscretion, had so far transported him; that in the extremities of his Rage, he discovered the nearness of their Relation▪ which the Pope and Conclave being acquainted with, all Intercession for his and Corinna's Life, was ineffectual though Rigidoro offer'd a very considerable sum, and six days after Carollo was condemn'd to lose his Head for violating the Nunnery in stealing Corinna and then com∣mitting Incest with her. Corinna's Crime was no less heinous and her punishment as just and severe; she was first sentenced to be Immur'd, and so starv'd to Death between two Walls, which Judgment the Court was afterwards pleased at the Prayers of her Father, to change into a speedier Death, and ordered that 3 days

after in her Nun's Habit she should be burnt near Trajan's Pillar, which was accordingly executed upon her.

Rigidoro was very much afflicted, at the Tragical and Unfortunate End of Carollo and Corinna but time at last dried up his Tears; and the hopes he had of being happy in Erasto and his Sister, abated his Sorrows and gave some Refreshment to his distressed Mind: But alas? we too often flatter our selves, with the expectations of Happiness here, from that very Subject, which proves the only occasion of our Trouble and Misery. Erasto was as vitious and debauch'd as Carollo had been, and no less incontinent, though more private in his Sins, which at last were punish'd by a cruel and ignominious Death. Amongst the variety of lewd Women whose Company and acquaintance were his only Pleasure and Delight. Favonia was one, a common Strumpet and as notori∣ously infamous as any of her Profession, who conside∣ring the great Estate Erasto would be Master of upon the Death of his Father, resolv'd to make the best ad∣vantage of him, and by counterfeiting a Religious Sor∣row and Penitence for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 miscarriages of her former Life, to gain him for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Husband or else absolutely re∣refuse him those e••••oyments he so passionately longed for. Erasto attempted her with noble Presents and richer 〈…〉〈…〉 would consent to his Desires; which she sligh••••d with scorn and contempt, telling him that all the Glories of Rome laid at her Feet should ne∣ver prevail upon her fix'd Resolution to Honour and Vertue; and that as her more youthful days had been prodigally spent in the Pleasures of Sin and Wicked∣ness, so now her riper Age and the whole remainder of her Life, should be intirely dedicated to Vertue and Goodness. Erasto pursued her with all the Temptati∣ons his Suit and Fancy could invent, but still in vain; whereupon he at last consented to marry her, which was privately solemnized by Father Iacomo the Priest, to the great Satisfaction of Favonia, and the utter Ruin

of Erasto. Two months this Marriage was conceal'd from Rigidoro, but he at last was acquainted with it, and charged Erasto with the Truth of what he had heard; that he had married Favonia the most impu∣dent Courtezan in all Rome: Erasto acknowledged that he was married, and without his advice or consent, for which he humbly begg'd his Pardon; that the Per∣son he had married, was call'd Favonia, but chast and vertuous as the most modest Nun; and however her Reputation had been formely stain'd, she had washt out those Spots with Tears and Repentance: and though possibly she had been loose and dissolute in her Virgin State, she was now a most loving Chast and Vertuous Wife. Rigidoro was so highly provok'd to hear his Son vindicate Favonia's Fame, and justifie his own Errour, that he immediately turn'd him out of Doors, and disinherited him, telling him with a deep Oath he would rather give his whole Estate to the Lazaretto, than relieve his utmost Distresses, with the least expression of common Charity or Kindness.

Erasto acquainted Favonia with Rigidoro's Cruelty, saying if he continued his severity toward him he can∣cell'd all his Obligations of Duty and Respect to him, by his barbarous and inhumane Usage; and that he would Study a Revenge which should make him as mi∣serable as himself. And being now reduc'd to great Poverty and Want, and finding his Father inexorable, notwithstanding he endeavour'd a Reconciliation by a most profound Submission to him, owning his Fault and begging his Pardon for his Offence; resolv'd, with his own hand to Murder him in the Street, rather than see him live in a plentiful and prosperous Estate, whilst he starv'd for want of Bread. Thus the Devil encourag'd him to the most villanous Sin of Parricide without a∣ny prospect of Happiness to himself, but as he gratified present Revenge by destroying that Life, from whence he had receiv'd his own, and since to live miserably is the most grievous punishment of Life; he resolv'd a

violent Death should make his Father as unhappy as he was wretched. To this end he watch'd frequently in the dark of the Evening over against Rigidoro's House, and seeing him come forth without any Attendance, followed him, and suddenly ran his Rapier in at his Back quite through his Body, upon which Rigidoro fell to the Ground Dead, and Erasto made his Escape. Presently after the Body was found, and within three days decently buried, great search was made for the Murtherers; but no Person discovered on whom they could fix the Guilt. Erasto, who was constantly haunted with the Terrors of an evil Conscience, and the dread of that Punishment he had so justly deserv'd, fled aboard one of the Popes Galleys which was bound for Sicily, and was afterwards taken by two Turks Men of War belonging to Tunis, and all the Seamen and Passen∣gers, who surviv'd the Fight (which was very bloody) either made Slaves aboard their own Vessels, or dis∣pos'd to Land-Servitude, amongst whom Erasto was sold ashore, to Barbarossa a Person of principal Note and Command in Tunis.

Erasto had now leisure to reflect on the vitious and wicked Courses of his former Life, and particularly on the bloody and inhumane Murther of his Father, which he now saw in some measure punish'd by the Mise∣ries of his present Condition; which wrought Complaint & Sorrow for the Evils he now suffer'd under, rather than a true and sincere Penitence for his notorious Offences. But though Barbarossa his Patron was severe and cruel, Adulla his Wife was more kind to him, and often when her Husband was abroad, brought him Victuals into the Garden where he work'd, above what was allow'd him, or the other Slaves had, which Erasto interpreted as a particular Respect and Love to his Person, which made her so charitable and bountiful to him, and hop'd to improve, to a more considerable Advantage. The other Slaves grumbled at Adulla's Kindness to Erasto, and acquainted Barbarossa with it, who presently enter∣tain'd

jealous thoughts of his Wife, and us'd Erasto with the greater Severity, which Adulla being sensible of, re∣doubled her Kindness, and upon the first Opportunity exprest her more particular Love to him, which Erasto readily Embrac'd, promising that no Torments should ever extort a Confession from him, of those obliging Favours he receiv'd. Their Amorous entertainments had been many and frequent, which Barbarossa was not altogether ignorant of; but willing that their Crime should be as apparent as he intended their Punishment, dissembled his Anger; and one day pretending to go a∣broad, conceal'd himself in the House, till he had notice by one of the Slaves (who was a Spye over all their Actions) that Adulla was retir'd to her Chamber, and had sent for Erasto, who was gone in to her; upon which he followed up, and surprized them in the very Act. The next day Erasto and Adulla were carried in Chains before the Divan, and there accus'd by Barbarossa of Adultery, which was so undeniably prov'd against them that Erasto was condemn'd to be flead alive, and Adulla delivered to her Husband to be punished as he thought convenient, who immediately ordered two of his Slaves to strangle her. Thus dyed Erasto miserably at Tunis whilst Favonia return'd to her old profession at Rome, and liv'd in all the lewdness and debauchery of a common Strumpet, till at last she was infected with the foul Disease, and died with Shame and Ignominy in the Burdello's.

Fornication, Incest, and Adultery, are three Furies with Virgins Faces, but their shining Locks are plated Ser∣pents; like Syrens they sing Melodiously, till they have charm'd us into Misery; and made us more ugly in our Natures, than the Companions of Ulysses in their Shapes, transformed into Swine.

HIST. VIII. The Dutchess of Vlme.

Anne of Werdenberg is carried away by the Lord of Zeringen; rescued by Captain Conrade, and after∣wards married to the Duke of Ulme: she falls in Love with Philip (Conrade's Brother) by mistake, seeks to poy∣son him, and is discovered; afterwards runs away with the Lord of Zeringen, and lives in Adultery with him. He is Slain and she taken Prisoner and shut up in a Dun∣geon. Conrade by the means of his Brother Philip, her Keeper, lyes with her, they are surprized by the Duke, Conrade kills the Duke, and himself and the Dutchess are slain by his Guard.

IN that part of Germany which is called Suevia, liv'd once a Prince whose Name was Rodolph, of the Family of Schwalen, intitled Duke of Ulme, an imperial City in those Parts founded at first by Charles the Great; this Rodolph after the Death of his Father suc∣ceeded in his Principality at thirty years of Age, and be∣ing as yet unmarried resolv'd to make his own choice, & contrary to the mind of most Princes, to have a great∣er Respect to Love than Interest or Reason of State: whereupon he declin••d all those offers made to him in his Fathers Life time that he might have the liberty of his own Election, and please his Fancy in one from whom he might assure himself of reciprocal Love and Affection. The curious Rodolph had seen all the Ladies of Quality those Countrys afforded without being charm'd by any of them, till at last, hearing of the celebrated Wit and fam'd Beauty of Ann the Daughter of the Earl of Werdenberg, a Town in the Province of Suevia, he rode

over to the Earl's Castle▪ with a handsome Equipage, where he soon found Report had not been too lavish in her praise: The Angelical form of this Lady at first sight Conquer'd Rodolph's Heart, but when he discover,d the acuteness of her Wit, and Ingenuity of mind, he soon concluded her the Paragon of her Sex. But alass! he could not penetrate her Soul, nor behold the Vices which lay conceal'd under so fair an Outside; with all these Accomplishments she was fickle and Inconstant, Sullen and Revengeful, and what is yet worse, of an Incontinent and Lustful Temper; but the Duke saw none of these deformities, the lustre of her Eyes, and the bright Glories of her Beauteous Form had dazled his, upon which he acquainted the Earl with his pretensions to this Young Lady, who know∣ing the Worth of the Duke, readily embraced so fair an Offer for the Advancement of his Daughter, and the Alliance with so Potent a Prince, by who••e Power and Assistance he should be able to oppose himself to some Enemies he had of the House of Hadsburgh, who were now in Arms against him. Rodolph made his Court to the Lady Anne, whom he found very reserv'd and shie, who entertained him Civilly, but without any sign of Love and Affection, so that he soon perceiv'd it must be a long and formal Siege could take her in, and accomplish his Desires.

At this time there was a great Contest between the Earl of Wer••enberg (the Father of this Lady) and Birthold Lord of (Zeringen, of the Family of Hadsburg) about certain Lands; which difference was grown so great, that they had both appear'd in Arms, and the Lord of Zeringen, by the powerful Aid of his Friends, gotten much the better of it. This young Lord was not above the Age of Five and Twenty, and possest of a fair Estate, who, tho' he was at difference with the Father, was in friendship with the Daughter, and having once upon the Road surpriz'd her, and made

her Prisoner for some Hours, was suddenly Captivated with the Excellence of her Wit and Beauty, and not only releas'd her, but discovered his Passion to her, begging that She might be the only Reward of his Conquests, and all their Hostile Disputes amicably reconciled in the happy Conjunction of their Persons, by the Sacred Bonds of Marriage. Not long after, Birthold, by his Friends, made Overtures of Peace to the Earl, and proposed a Match between himself and the Lady Anne, and that the Lands in question should be Assigned over as part of her Dowry. But the Earl diverted this Design by his unreasonable demands, which Birthold in Honour could not comply withall. However Birthold made secret Court to the Lady, and at last obtained the Favour of a private meeting with his Mistress, and notwithstanding the Obstinacy of the Father, came to Terms with the Daughter, and un∣known to the Earl, they were Contracted, making sure of each other, before the Ceremonies of the Church had confirm'd their Vows.

But the Duke by renewing his Suit, interrupted the secret Converse of the Lovers which tho' he knew not of, yet fearing the propositions of Peace made by his Rival Birthold, should take Effect, offered the Earl a supply of five hundred men, which he accep••ed, and by this powerful Assistance regained the greatest part of those Lands Birthold had made himself Master of. This so far inraged Birthold (his Affairs growing every day into a worse Condition, and fearing the loss of his Mistress, with whom he had frequent meetings in dis∣guise) that he earnestly solicited her to make her flight with him, which she as often refused with a Com∣plement, That she hoped the Valour and good For∣tune of her Lover would at last compel her Father to Consent; which he seeing no probability of, resolv'd by Stratagem to carry her off. To this end he en∣gaged her Maid Mariana by rich Presents, to tempt her

abroad the next Day to take the Air, and then con∣duct her to a remote place (at an appointed Hour) in the Park adjoyning to the Castle, where they no sooner arriv'd, but they were surprised by some Horse∣men in Ambush, and notwithstanding their Shrieks and Outcries, were forcibly carried out of the Park to his Coach, where he in Person attended.

This Violence extreamly troubled the Lady, who (tho' Birthold threw himself at her Feet, and begg'd Pardon for so great a rudeness, yet) being of an haughty Temper, and proud Spirit, resolved to Chastise him severely for it. Birthold endeavoured to pacifie her with all the most humble submissions he could make; and with smooth and passionate Language, allay the Storm he had raised, but all his Rhetorick was in vain; when considering this was no place for a long Parle, and the present posture of his Affairs requiring his presence, he committed her to the Care and Fidelity of his Kinsman, to carry her a private way to his Castle, whilst he returned to his Soldiers, who were now ready to mutiny in his Absence. Birthold having appeas'd his Army, committed the Conduct of it to Braganti, his Lieutenant General, and posted away cross the Country to make a Visit to his Mistress; but on the way he met his Kinsman wounded, who pre∣sently recounted to him the sad disaster he had met with. That his Mistress was forced from him by a Troop of Horse, they had met withal on the way, who upon the Ladies Shreeks and Cries, rescued her from them, notwithstanding all the Resistance they could make; in which Conflict himself was wounded and several of his Men killed. This News afflcted him beyond measure; but seeing no Remedy, he return'd to his Camp, full of Grief and Vexation.

The Rape of the Lady Anne being made known to the Duke, and the Earl her Father, they were ex∣treamly troubled at it, and immediately caused the

Ravishers to be pursued by some of his Troops, who after three days Search, understood she was brought back to the Castle by one Captain Conrade; upon which they made a speedy Return. The Earl was exceeding Joyful at the Recovery of his Daughter, and under∣standing by her, That Captain Conrade (whom they accidentally met, marching with his Troop for the Emperour's Service in Hungary) had delivered her, and safely brought her home, was returned to his Troop, without his Thanks or Reward; according to his Noble Disposition, sent to invite him to his Castle, that he might make some Acknowledgments for the great Service they had done him, and least they should not prevail with him, caused the Lady Anne to send him a fair Diamond Ring to wear for her sake, and he himself sent him the best Horse in his Stable, with Furniture richly Embroyder'd. But they needed not thus to have presented Conrade, for this Young Lady had already given gim her Heart, from whom she parted with much regret.

The late Affront of the Lord of Zeringen, and the Generous Gallantry of Conrade, had now planted her fickle and wandring Heart in the Captain's Breast, whom she expected with impatience. But Conrade Excused himself by a Gentleman, That he was upon Duty, and in all hast going to the place of Rend••zvous, return'd his Thanks to the Earl for the Civility offer'd him, and the Noble Presents he had receiv'd, with his Service and humble Respects to the Lady, Assuring her he would wear the Ring the longest Day of his Life, which should be devoted to her Service.

The Young Lady was very much discontented when she saw the Captain did not return, as she had Flatter'd her self he would, her troubled Breast was wreck'd with Hopes and Fears, and great was the Conflict be∣tween Love and Honour: The handsom Proportion, sweet Countenance, Genteel Behaviour, Courtly Speech∣es,

and the Noble Courage of Conrade, oblig'd her to think him the most compleat Gentleman she had ever seen; but the Pride that attends on Great Persons, and often deters them from falling meanly under their Passions, began to settle hers, and calm the ruffl••s of her Mind into a serene and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Temper. But the Contest was again renewed, and Love gain'd the Victory: whereupon she writ this following Letter, which she return'd by his Messenger, unknown to any but her Confident Mariana.

To my Deliverer, Captain Conrade.

THE Service you have done me does Challenge a far greater Acknowledgment than lyes in my Power to give you, and I hope will Excuse me if I say something to you Kind and Extravagant. I have no other way to requite your Civilities but to tell you what Power they have over a Soul so sensible as mine is, and it is your own fault that you have not more Ac∣ceptable Pro••fs of my Love and Affection to you. Since you are going to the Wars, perhaps I may never be put to the blush by seeing you again; but pray remember as you bave set my Body free, you have made my Heart your Captive, whilst I am

Anne of Werdenberg.

The Captain having received this Letter, admired the Ladyes Kindness and Gratitude to him, the un∣expected Encouragement to obtain her Love, advanc'd his hopes of Success, and he resolv'd to leave his Troop to Court her; but considering the great disparity be∣tween their Fortunes and Qualities, and the difficulty of gaining a Lady not at her own disposal, he pre∣sently returned this Letter by the same Messenger.

To my Conquerour, the Fair Lady Anne.

I Acknowledge Madam that you are my Conquerour, and I am your Slave, but I h••pe never to be Ransom'd or Ex∣changed, but to wear out my Life in so grateful a Bondage. The sense of my own humble Condition forbids me to lift up my Eyes to my Adored Mistress, unless raised above my own pitch by the purchase of Honour, which I will seek with the hazard of my Life, That my Head may be encompassed with Lawrels to preserve me from being blasted by the Angry Lightning of your Eyes, for my Confidence and Presumption. Madam I humbly beg Pardon for your Affectionate Slave▪

Conrade.

The Lady receiv'd this Letter, and read it a thou∣sand times, fancied new Charms▪ and fresh pleasures in every line; sometimes she would call him Cruel and Ungrateful, and then Excusing him, would blame her self, and resolve to be Constant to his Love. Ma∣riana seeing her Extravagancy pityed her very much, and tryed all ways to divert her, and renew her Old Flame for Birthold, but in vain. She was so incensed against him for his late rude behaviour, that the Pride of her Mind, but more the Love of Conrade, excluded all hopes of Reconciliation.

In the mean time the Lord Birthold was very much distressed by his Enemies, and though he was much troubled for the Loss of his Land, he was more afflicted for that of his Mistress, the first he had hopes to recover, but the other he feared was lost for ever. He wrote to her, sent Messengers, but could obtain no Answer, but from Mariana, who gave him more reason to dispair than hope of success. In the Interim the Duke and the Earl her Father, were agreed in all points relating to the Marriage, and she being now be∣come indifferent, as to the Duke, did not much oppose

it: whereupon, soon after, it was pompously Solem∣niz'd, and the Young Dutchess conducted to his Palace at Ulme, where she was received with Feasts, Balls, Plays, and all the Honourable Expressions of publick Mirth and Joy. Captain Conrade, notwithstanding all this, still preserv'd his Image in the Breast of the Dutchess, which had made so deep an Impression, that in the midst of all those Diversions, she still sigh'd and languished after him.

It happen'd as she was si••ting one day to see some Publick Games, her Eyes roving up and down, she thought she espied among the Croud, her beloved Captain, all the Features of his Face were so like and agreeable, That she resolv'd it must be the same, and could not possibly be any other: Mariana being near her, she whisper'd her in the Ear, and directed her Eye to the same object, who immediately concluded with her, That Gentleman she then saw, was the real Captain Conrade; but they wondred much to see him in so mean a Garb, and not in the Habit of a Soldier, which they supposed he made use of for a Disguise; and when they observ'd him so intent on the Sports, that he seldome cast his Eyes on the Dutchess, or if he did, with such Indifferency, that shew'd nothing of Love or Passion, they were more concern'd at his Slight and Neglect. This Sight rais'd so violent a Transport in the Soul of the New-Married Dutchess, that she could not contain her self from charging Mariana to set some body to watch him to his Lodging, and that she should privately Inquire of him his Design of coming thither in that Garb and Dis∣guise. Mariana in obedience to the Commands of the Dutchess, set one of the Servants belonging to her Train to watch him to his Lodging, and there Acquaint him that she desir'd to speak with him at the Palace, whither he was privately to conduct him. The Man obey∣ed his Orders punctually, and the Young Gentleman

received the Message with Wonder and Amazement, protesting that Mariana was utterly unknown to him; however at the Entreaty of the Messenger he went along; and being introduced into a private Lobby, Mariana came to him, and looking full in his Face, Captain (says she) what makes you here thus disguised? The Dutchess owes too much to your Generosity and Valour, not to take Notice of her Deliverer. The Gentleman look'd strange upon her, as one he had never seen before, which made Mariana stop, and Ark him if he was not Captain Conrade? the Gentleman answered No, but that he was his own Brother, and a Twin, and so like him, that not only Strangers but their own Parents could not distinguish them, but by a Red Mole under the Right Pap, which his Brother had, that his Name was Philip, born at Villengen, and Elder by four Minutes.

Mariana seeing his Speech, Carriage, Proportion, Face, Hair, Smiles, and Actions so very like, would not believe one word he say'd, but taking all for Fiction prest him to let her know his Intentions of being there, and whither he had already forsaken his Mistress Honour, for whom he had lost a Young and Obliging Lady, to her great Grief and Trouble. Philip seeing the Incredulity of Mariana, smil'd at her Error, but it not being the first time by many he had been mistaken for his Brother, it was no great Sur∣prize to him; Mariana still urg'd he was the same Per∣son, whilst Philip with many Oaths and Asseverations endeavoured to confirm the Truth of what he had said, and that he came over only to see the publick Sports, and the Entrance of the Duke and Dutchess, and to morrow intended to return to Villengen, unless she or the Dutchess had any Commands to the con∣trary. Mariana went presently to Inform the Dutchess of what he had sayed, and desir'd him to wait in the Lobby till her Return.

About an hour after Mariana returns with the Dutchess who was amazed to see the Captain she lov'd, deny himself, for both her Eyes and Ears told her it was he and no other. Captain (said she) the Obligation I have to you, may Excuse this strangeness, but after the Letter I sent you, and that I received from you, I cannot but wonder you should call your self Philip, and make so strange of a Business I would have esteemed more serious; and therefore pray tell me why you thus disguise your self, and what your pre∣tentions are? Madam, replyed the Gentleman, I de∣sire not to deceive a Person of your Quality, and I do swear by all that's Sacred, I am not Captain Conrade, but his Brother Philip, that I came hither only out of Cu∣riosity, and shall return to morrow, unless for my Brother's sake, who I perceive has done you some considerable Service▪ you will be pleased to entertain me amongst your Followers. The Dutchess looked somewhat amazedly, and her Eyes told her she could not believe him, his desire of being retained about her made her conclude he was no other than Conrade, whom her Letter and his Love had brought back to serve her. This thought pleas'd her, and she told him he should Attend her the next day, and in the mean time she would speak to the Duke to Entertain him amongst his Domesticks for his Brother's sake, if he were not the same she took him for, which she still doubted.

But it is too true, the Dutchess is deceived, Mariana is deceived, and all the World who had seen the one, would have been deceived by the other; This was one of the Fantasticks of Nature, or one of her Ra∣rities which she seldom makes, in this she had imitated Conrade so exactly, that he was not to be known from Philip, nor Philip from him, she had form'd them in the same Molds in the dark Cell of the Womb, that it was not possible for the Eye to distinguish them, and least she should mistake her self, had only differenced

Conrade by a private Mark. But how like soever their Bodies were, their Souls were as different; Conrade had a Noble Generous Soul, full of Life and Valour, Philip (though the Eldest) was Covetous, Sordid and Cow∣ardly: besides these internal marks of difference, Time and Accident had caused one notable distinction, which not being known to many, was kept a Secret, and being in those parts of the Body which common Mo∣desty obliges us to conceal, was not discoverable. Philip in his Younger Years climbing up a high Pear-Tree, the Bough broke, and he fell so unluckily that a Stump of the Tree stuck between his Legs, which so bruised those parts, that they gangreend and were cut clean off, so that Philip was a Capon, and as true an Eunuch as any the Turk had in his whole Seraglio. This was a Secret which shame caused to be conceal'd, Eunuchs being accounted Monsters in that part of the World where they are not seen every day, or do not Govern Provinces, or Command Armies.

The Dutchess was not yet convincd, but this was her real Conrade, however he was pleas'd to assume the Name and Person of Philip, and accordingly so represented him to the Duke, that the Brother of that Captain who had so bravely rescued her from the hands of her Ravishers was now in the City, and had Petition'd her in consideration of his Brother's Service, to be admitted one of her Domesticks: The Duke glad of an Opportunity to be grateful, and please his New Dutchess, whom he passionately Lov'd, order'd him to be entertain'd in the place of one of the Gentle∣men of his Chamber, to the great content of Philip, and satisfaction of the Dutchess. The Dutchess for some time remain'd very reserv'd, expecting this Phillp, or disguised Conrade, should make his Addresses to her, but observing in him so great Indifference, she was not a little Amaz'd and Perplex'd at it. To be better inform'd she sent privately to Villengen, and was there

satisfied that this was not Conrade but Philip his Brother, However as she had before been Enamour'd on the Comely Shape, and Graceful Deportment of Conrade, she could not be said to change the Object of her Love in Philip, who was so like him in all outward appear∣ance, as one drop of water to another, which occasion'd the same Sentiments of Mind, and Lustful Desires for Philip, as She before had for Conrade. She knew that Conrade was gone to the Wars, and his return uncer∣tain, but here she beheld, and had in her power the same Person with a different Name only; and thought it the greatest Folly imaginable to sigh for one that was absent, and fore-go the same present; to dye for the shadow, when she might freely enjoy the substance. The Dutchess discovered the secret Passion of her Heart to Mariana, brib'd her with Gold, and did all that a Flattering Mistress is capable of, to subvert the Honesty and Integrity of a Servant, and make her Faithful to her; Mariana readily understood what the Dutchess meant, and with pity to the poor forsaken Birthold, unwillingly paid Obedience to her unlawful Commands.

The Dutchess took all Opportunities of shewing kindness to Philip, and with her Eyes and Actions spoke the hidden Passions of her Heart; but all her Favours and Caresses were thrown away on this dull and fro∣zen Statue, his incapacity for Love had chill'd his Blood, and made him cold and reserv'd; all her smiles were lost upon him, and for those many marks of her Esteem, he only returned low Cringes and di∣ligent submissions. The Dutchess was vext and angry at his dulness and stupidity, or fear and modesty, not being able to distinguish which was the true reason of so great reservedness. Great Persons love to be under∣stood at first sight, with a word and a beck, and it is better to be too forward and mistake their intentions, than too backward, and not understand their desires.

At this time the great success of Birthold caused the Duke to go into the Field himself, with those New Forces he had raised for the Assistance of the Earl of Werdenberg, and with much regret he parted from the Dutchess, laying a particular Command on Philip to be diligent in his Attendance on her, and to certifie him continually of her Health, of which Honour he was not a little proud. The Duke being thus departed with his Army, the Dutchess, with Mariana, Philip, and some few other Servants, went to her Castle of Blaford, a League from Vlme, where she designed to divert her self with Hunting for two or three days, and then return to Vlme. Here she resolved to lay the Scene of her Amorous Design, and contrive every thing so cunningly, that the most searching Eye should not be able to find a flaw in her Honour. The second Night after her Arrival, having before order'd Philip to be Lodg'd in a Chamber remote from the rest of the Servants, to which there was a private Gallery, which led from her Apartment, about Midnight her unruly Love having kept her waking, she arose out of her Bed, and (giving Mariana strict charge not to stir) flung over her a light Silk Mantle, richly Embroyder'd, her Head was curiously drest, as on her Bridal Night, then putting on a pair of Velvet Slippers, she took the white Wax Taper burning in her Chamber in a Silver Candle∣stick, in one Hand, and a Dagger in the other, and in this posture left her Chamber, and through the pri∣vate Gallery convey'd her self to Philip's.

This Apparition in the middle of the Night (as sweet and tempting as this lovely and lustful Dutchess seem'd to be) struck the Amazed Philip with horrour and con∣sternation, not knowing whether it was the bright Vision of some Angelical Phantasm, or some sportive Devil in the Counterfeit Shape of a Glorious Spirit, his little Acquaintance with either, gave him sufficient Ar∣gument for his present Fears. Philip lay trembling in

his Bed, which the Dutchess approachd and holding the Dagger towards his Breast, thus exprest her Self.

The many Favours I have shown, are the manifest tokens of my Affection to you, and which have been received with too much Slight and Neglect; you either disdain my Love, or are so stupid not to understand my Passion, either of which is alike dangerous to my Repose, and your Life. I have in this manner Ap∣pear'd to you, as you see, to discover the Violence of my Love, and intrust my Honour with you: you have no other way to choose, but to Answer my Desires, or dye by my hands, this poyson'd Dagger shall Sacrifice you to my Fury, if you deny to be an Offering to my Love.

This was a pretty way of Courtship indeed, but this Lady was none of those who desir'd to be Ador'd and Sigh'd for, to be Worshipp'd as a Saint, or Respected as a Vestal: Hers was not Fantastick or Pla∣tonick Love, placed only in Shadows and respectful Ceremonies, her Flames were to be quench'd, and De∣sires satisfied with Secrecy and Expedition.

Philip open'd his Mouth, and fixing his Eyes on the Amiable yet Terrible Object, spake something so con∣fusedly and abruptly, that the Dutchess soon perceived the Affright she had put her Lover in, had in some measure debarr'd her of the Satisfaction she expected, and to allay those fearful Spirits she had raised, endea∣voured to rectifie the Error she had committed, by smoothing her Brow, and putting on her Sweetest and most Charming Looks: She Arm'd her Eyes with a softer Fire, her Countenance on a sudden became Se∣rene and Amorous, Inviting Smiles dispell'd the frowns of her contracted Brow. She laid aside the Weapon in her Hand, and made use of none but Rays of Light, which shot themselves into the Soul of Philip like so many Daggers, for he trembled to see what would have rejoyced another Man. She set down the Taper, and disrobing her self into the Glories of a

Naked Goddess, lifted up the Cloaths and laid her self down by him, saying;

Thus will I Charm your Fears, thus will I Court your Love: I have laid by my Thunder and Lightning, and imagine me no longer the Dutchess of Vlme your Mistress, but your Lover, and one that Expects to give and take a Felicity, Princes would not refuse.

Philip was getting out on the other side of the Bed, when she laid her Arm over him, warm enough to melt the most snowy Chastity; What (said she) do you flie me? am I a Person after all this to be refus'd? then resetling her disturbed spirits, and gently drawing him towards her, she began to smother him with Kisses, whilst he like a trembling Partridge under the Pounces of an Hawk made some faint strug∣lings to get from her Embraces, and assoon as he could have Liberty from the Kisses she loaded him with, Cryed out, Ah Madam! I am not able to perform what you expect from me, I must Confess I am no Man, and that it is impossible for me to give you the Satisfaction you desire.

The Dutchess was so Confounded at these words, that she let go her Arms from their Embrace, and rising half way out of Bed, thought he had been a Woman, but discovering the contrary by his Breasts, which were bare, she thought he only said so to deceive her, when presently the Colour flushing into her Cheeks, and a fierceness mounting into her Eyes, she began to grow terrible to Philip, who leaping out flung himself on his Knees by the Bed side, and with many Oaths and As∣severations related his Misfortune to her.

It is impossible to speak the Confusion this disap∣pointed Lady was in, her Eyes were fierce and spark∣ling with Shame and Anger, and transported with Rage she flew to her Dagger, which Philip being aware of, ran to the Table where his Sword lay, and put him∣self into a Posture of Defence, whilst she seeing her self thus defeated of her Pleasure, and prevented in her

Revenge, look'd like a distracted Fury, all her lovely Charms grew terrible and frightful. Whether it be true or false (said the inraged Dutchess) That you have told me, or whether thou art impotent or Ver∣tuous, 'tis not much matter, for thou shalt dye for my mistake. But Philip had no mind to be kill'd, and kept her off with the point of his Sword, assuring her with a Thousand Oaths and Imprecations of the Truth of what he said; told her more fully his Misfortune, promised and vow'd Eternal Secrecy, that no Person in the World should ever know one syllable of this Action, that he himself would endeavour to forget it, and believe it only a Dream or Vision, provided she did no ways hereafter attempt his Life; But if he should happen to fall by her Malice, as he easily might, he would leave this Nights Transactions, under his Hand and Seal, with an Intimate Friend, who after Death would deliver it to the Duke, and that if he might live secure, he would be secret, silent, and faith∣ful, her Shame should be hid, and her Honour safe.

The Dutchess saw no other Remedy, but without Reply threw her Mantle about her, slipp'd on her Pantoffles, took up the Candle, and left Philip not a little glad that he was so easily rid of this Amiable Fury. Mariana saw her Lady return, but with such marks of Disturbance in her Looks, Confusion in her Eyes, and Shame in her Cheeks, that she wondred what could be the Cause of so great a Disturbance. The next day the Dutchess feign'd her self Sick, caus'd her Coach to be made ready, and return'd to Vlme, writing Dispatches to the Duke, wherein she told him (with the greatest Art of Feminine Cunning and Collogueing) how much she suffer'd by his Absence, who like the Flower of the Sun must droop 'till his Return, and wither like the Female Palm in the Absence of the Male. These Let••ers were order'd to be sent by Philip, who was pleas'd with the Command, and so Easie a

Removal from the sight of the incensed Dutchess. All this Mariana saw and wondred at, 'till the Dutchess one Evening in her Closet acquainted her with the odd Circumstances of her Love, and her more strange disappointment.

The Duke receiv'd the kind Letters of the Dutchess, and was not a little satisfied with her Love and Care, and after he had put his Affairs in a good posture, re∣turn'd Post to Vlme, to the Embraces of his Lady. Philip came along with the Duke, but kept himself as much out of her Presence as he could, who never be∣held him but with Shame and Confusion, and that very Object, which before had been so pleasant in her Eyes, was now as monstrous and hateful, Malice and Revenge succeeded her Love in as great a degree, and considering her Honour and Life were intrusted to his keeping, she resolved neither could be safe as long as he liv'd, and having in vain endeavour'd by several Artifices to remove him from the Duke, she Con∣sulted with Mariana what was to be done in so difficult a Case, who agreed to send him into another World, which could only secure his Silence. To this End, Ie∣ranto the Cook was hi••ed by a Purse of Gold, to Poy∣son him in a Mess of Broth, which he soon after effect∣ed; But his German simplicity not being so well vers'd in that Damnable Art, as the Spaniard or Italian, the Poy∣son wrought so violently it discover'd it self too soon, and by the great Care and Skill of the Duke's Physici∣ans, the Danger was prevented. He presently imagin'd it came from the implacable Hatred of the Dutchess, and resolv'd to be Reveng'd of her before he Dy'd: whereupon he sent for the Duke, and having made all Persons avoid the Room, Acquainted him with the Visit the Dutchess had given him, with all the par∣ticular Circumstances of it, and fully inform'd him of the reason of her Malice and his Empoysoning.

The Duke was like one Thunder-struck with this

Relation, and having consider'd the several parts of it, began to question whether Philip was not distracted by his Distemper, but having heard him confirm it with many Oaths and Imprecations, expecting every moment to dye; Trouble and Grief succeeded his Wonder and Astonishment, and Jealousie and Rage follow'd after. He stayed some time to compose him∣self, and charg'd Philip, To let no other know of his Disho∣nour; telling him, if he dy'd he would revenge his Death, and if he liv'd, reward his Fi••elity. Philip being young and lusty, Nature at last (by the help of powerful Me∣dicines,) or'ecame the Poyson, and he recover'd with the loss only of his Hair and Nails. The Duke in the mean time smother'd his Trouble all he could, from the piercing Eye of the Dutchess, and when Philip was recover'd carried him one day into her Chamber, and making all others but Mariana to quit the Room, caused him to Accuse her Face to Face.

The Dutchess seem'd not much mov'd, but took it as if the Duke had been in Jest with her, at which he grew so inraged, he flatly charg'd her with the Crime, calling her Impudent Strumpet, she appearing as Angry and High, peremptorily deny'd it, and told him, She would have satisfaction for so base an Abuse put upon her: She Vindicated her self from all that Philip had said▪ and with so many Asseverations justify'd her Inno∣cency, that the Duke stood Amaz'd, not knowing which to Credit. The Subtle Lady perceiving the Duke's mind wavering, fell on her Knees and Crav'd Justice against that perjur'd Villain Philip; who now saw his own Folly and Danger, in Accusing the Dutch∣ess without any other Witness to corroborate his Evi∣dence. The Duke was very much perplex'd with this matter, and knowing the Dutchess had not actu∣ally defiled his bed, but intentionally only, if that was true she was Accused of, and that probably Philip's Impotency rather than his Vertue, or a due regard to

his Honour, had kept him Chast; by many good words endeavour'd to pacifie the Dutchess, and recon∣cile her to Phillip, whom he still continued in his Ser∣vice.

However the Duke seem'd to dissemble the Trouble of his mind, Philip still standing firm in his Accusation, Jealousie began to prevail upon his Soul, and imbitter all his Thoughts: He grew Melancholy and Churlish, and she so proud and disdainful, that an apparent breach was made between them; she Curs'd her Marriage, and the time she forsook Birthold, the Kind and Loving Birthold. This Mariana took notice of, and acquainted Birthold with the Discontents of the Dutchess, who dili∣gently by Letters address'd himself to her, from whom he receiv'd this Answer.

To the Lord of Zeringen.

BIrthold; If I have yet any Command over your Soul, as you say I have, then you must not dye; but preserve a Life that is precious to me, and may yet be serviceable to redeem me from Misery. Time may alter both our Fortunes, and your Constancy may be Rewarded by

Anne Vlme.

Birthold being encouraged in his Love by the Amo∣rous Letter of the Dutchess, came over privately in Disguise to Vlme, and by the Assistance of Mariana made frequent Visits to the Dutchess, these Enterviews soon composed all former Differences, and entred 'em into a st••icter League than ever. VVhat mutual kindnesses passed between them at that time, I never yet could learn, But it is very likely, as we may judge by the sequel of their Actions, such unscrupulous Lovers made use of Opportunity. Birthold at last propos'd to her to leave the Duke her Husband, and go along with him, which she consenting to, pack'd up all her

Jewels and other things of value, and one Evening with Mariana walk'd out to the side of the River Da∣now which runs by the Walls of Vlme, where Birthold waited her coming, and with a Boat of six Oars, carried them over the River, and in his Coach con∣veyed them safe to his Castle. The Duke soon heard where the Dutchess was, and Acquainted the Earl her Father with the Treachery and Infidelity of his Daugh∣ter, who were both so inraged at the Injury and dis∣grace, that they immediately rais'd all the Forces they were able to make, and mutually vow'd a Revenge. So great Success attended the Justice of their Cause, that Birthold was totally routed in the Field, and forc'd to take Re∣fuge in his Castle, where the Dutchess was, which two days after was surrounded by the Dukes Army; Birthold having done all that a Valiant man could do in defence of the Place, resolv'd not to be taken Alive and b••come the Scorn of the Victors▪ but thrust him∣self into the midst of his Enemies, and dyed bravely with his Sword in his Hand. The Dutchess had not the heart to fly to a voluntary Death, though she re∣sisted her Fate all she could, and was taken with Arms in her fair Hands, encouraging the Soldiers with her Words and Actions. Being taken and brought before her Husband and Father, the Earl would have run her thorough with his own hand, but was hindred by the Duke, who desired her punishment might be left to him, against whom she had more grievously of∣fended, who resolved not to chastise her by death, but to give her a Life, tho' full of pain and misery, by which she might have time to Repent of her Crimes, and save her Soul.

The Duke sent away the Dutchess, and the dead Body of Birthold, with a strong Guard to his Castle at Blaford, and having finish'd the Campaign, and re∣stor'd the Country to Peace, return'd to Vlme with Honour and Victory. The Duke being resolv'd now to punish his Adulterous Dutchess, order'd Mariana to

be taken from her, and being Chastised as a Confede∣rate in her Crimes, was banish'd his Terrritories. The Dutchess was then put into a Room where no Light of Day or Sunshine could ever enter, in which he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Bed to be set up, and the Room hung with Black, with a Lamp continually burning in the midst of it, a little Table was placed by her Bed-side, with a Prayer-Book, the Picture of a beautiful Lady em∣bracing a Knight on the one side, and the same Knight and Lady tormented by Devils on the other side of the Chamber, as Objects to remember her of her Crimes, and promote her Repentance. This was the Furniture of the Room; and to abate the heat of her Lust, he gave strict Charge that three times a Week she should have nothing but Bread and Water, and at other times a spare Dyet. He allowed her no other Cup to drink in but the Skull of Birthold, which he had caused purposely to be made into a Cup, and tipt it round with Silver, nor no other Carpet on her Table but his Skin, which was flead off and drest for that purpose, strictly Commanding, That no Person in the world should be permitted to see or speak to her, except a Priest, who was order'd to Confess her once a month: Care was also taken, that she should have no Knife, or any thing else whereby she might hurt her self, and that he might be sure to have all this punctually perform'd, and she not able to Corrupt her Keep••r, he gave the Command of the Castle to Philip, and made him her Keeper, strictly Charging him, that no Person should be suffer'd to see or speak with her, but himself, and the Priest he should send with a Warrant under his Hand and Seal. Philip who had no good will to this Lady, undertook the Charge not unwillingly, resolving to observe his Lord's Directions very punctually, believing them to be as Just as Severe, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 good for the Soul of the Adulterous Dutchess.

In this manner liv'd the Dutchess for the space of

three years, never seeing the Face of any but Philip and the Preist her Confessor, whilst the Duke liv'd Loose and Luxuriously, Wantonis'd in all manner of Un∣lawful Pleasures and Lustful desires, there was hard∣ly a Handsome Virgin in Vlme that he did not betra••, nor a Beautiful Woman that he did not corrupt; His Palace was now become a meer Seraglio, and his Court a more Honourable Stews. In the mean time Captain Conrade (a Truce being made between the Christians and Turks) return'd to Vienna, and from thence with the Emperours leave to his own Country, full of Glory and Renown, to visit his Friends and Relations, till the End of the Truce should call him again to Action. Being come to Villengen he soon understood his Bro∣thers preferment under the Duke of Vlme, the various Fortune of the Dutchess, her Imprisonment in the Castle of Blaford, where his Brother was Constable, and all other Circumstances that Fame or Common re∣port could inform him of. Conrade finding the powerful Image of this lovely Lady yet fresh in his mind, with all those Charms she overcame him with, when he releas'd her from her Ravishers, and remembring her kind Letters and Amorous Expressions, found he had a great desire to see her, Notwithstanding the Change of her Condition, which he might easily effect by the means of his Brother who was her Keeper. He therefore privately and without any attendance, went over to Blaford, and staying at a house in a little Village near the Castle, sent a Messenger with a Note to his Brother to acquaint him he desir'd to see him, but without any Company for some reasons he should afterwards understand; Philip could not but wonder at the Secrecy and Caution that he us'd in his Visit; but however observ'd his directions and went immediately over to him. The Ceremony of their mutual respects bring over, Conrade conjur'd Philip to hearken to his Re∣quest and told him the passionate desire he had to see

the Dutchess, which he might easily accomplish by changing Cloaths with him, they being so alike that nothing but the difference of their habits distinguish'd them. Philip a long time endeavour'd to dissuade him from it, urging the danger and hazard of the Attempt; but Love had blinded his Eyes and stopt his Ears to all Considerations, and the Importunity of Conrade at last prevail'd with Philip, who changing Cloaths with him gave him full instructions of all the ways and Customs he us'd, and delivering him the Keys they em∣braced and parted. Philip accoutred with his Buff, Sword and Feathers, went back to Villengen instead of Conrade, and Conrade went to the Castle, where he was admitted by the Soldiers for Philip, wi••hout the least Suspicion or Mistrust. At the time accustom'd he car∣ried the Dutchess her Allowance, whom he could not behold without Grief and Trouble, his Eyes were fixt on her Face, which he saw Pale and Wan, and much alter'd by that severity us'd to her, but yet that Ty∣rany had not robb'd her of all her Beautie, and sweet∣ness, the pleasing Air of her Face was yet preserv'd, though her Complexion was Faded, and even in that Languishment she carried Charms and Sorceries. The next day Conrade discover'd himself to the Dutchess in these words. Behold Madam here at your Feet no longer your Iaylor Philip, but your Adorer and Lover Conrade, who hath preserv'd your Image intire in his Heart, who bewails and pities your Misfortunes, and who now comes to offer you a Life which hath been pr••s••rv'd from so many dangers that it might redeem you from Captivity. Long it was before he could convince the Dutchess that he was Conrade and not Phillip, and seeing his Words and Actions had yet scarce gain'd Credit with her, he produc'd the Letter he had formerly received from her saying: This Ma∣dam I have kept as a precious Relique of y••ur Affection, it is Pen'd by your own fair Hands, and your Eyes can Witness the Truth of what I say. The Dutchess Viewing the Letter,

was strangely surpriz'd, for now she was assur'd he was Conrade and not Phillip, and throwing her Arms about his Neck, in a Transport of Joy sunk down into his. Be∣fore they parted a Vow'd League of Friendship 〈◊〉〈◊〉 between them, and Articles of a Polluted and Adulte∣rous Love was S••aled; they are now become one, and united in Wickedness and the Amorous and passionate Conrade sufficiently satisfy'd the Lustful Dutchess that he was not the Eunuch Phillip, but her first beloved Conrade. He often off••r'd to carry her from Ulme, which she re∣fus'd, saying; she could be no where so secure, and that it added much to the sweetness of pleasure that she could in some measure revenge her self on her Cruel Husband, in the same place he had so grievously pun∣ish'd her.

Philip being now desirous to return to his Command, left Villengen in Order to go to the Castle of Blaford, but the Duke met Philip upon the Road as he was riding out to take the Air, and stopt, and ask'd him where he had been, and how he came to leave the Castle of Blaford, and what was the reason he was thus Metamorphosed into a man of War? Philip was very much surpriz'd, and looking strangely on the Duke as if he had never seeen him before, I suppose Sir (says he) you are some Person of Quality by your Train, but I must tell you, you mistake me for my Brother Philip, who is Governour of the Castle of Blaford, whom I am now going to Visit, wh••se likeness to me often causes these mistakes. The Duke knew Philip durst not Jest with him, and seeing him in the Garb of a Soldier, remembred he had heard the Dutchess some time speak of the great resemblance and likeness of the two Brothers, believed he was in an Error, and then told him that he was the Duke of Vlme, and that he should go along with him that night, and the next day they would ride over to Blaford, where he would give himself the Satisfaction of so great a Curiosity. The Duke accordingly did so, and

Conrade appear'd to him in the habit of Philip and he in Conrade's, who were so much alike that the Duke and the whole Company were strangely amaz'd at it. The Duke return'd to Vlme, and Philip and Conrade stay'd at Blaford, where Phillip earnestly pr••st him to change his Cloaths and deliver up the Command of the Castle to him, for Fear any unhappy Accident should make a discovery of their persons, which would prove Fatal to them both; Conrade told Philip it was Im∣possible, but if he would go to Villengen and return two months after, he would then comply with his desire, which he accordingly did.

Conrade and the Dutchess enjoy'd themselves in the unbounded pleasures of their Lust, and laugh'd at that Vengeance which was now ready to punish all their Lewdness and Debauchery, by a miserable and Tragi∣cal Catastrophe. The Duke began now to think afresh on the likeness of the Two Brothers, and how easily he might be deceived if they should agree to∣gether that Conrade should be the Keeper of his Dutch∣ess instead of the Eunuch Philip. He knew the Service that Conrade had done the Dutchess formerly, and some had told him that his Actions exprest more of Love than Civility: Evil men have Evil thoughts, and they measure other mens Actions by their own. For this reason the next Night he went privately over to the Castle, attended only with Four of his Gentlemen, re∣solving to satisfie himself whether it was Philip or Con∣rade, who had now the command of the Castle, and the keeping of the Dutchess. The Warders and Soldiers of the Gate knew the Duke and admitted him, won∣dring at his coming, who went directly to Philip's Apartment, thinking to surprize him in Bed, and there to satisfie himself but not finding him, his suspition en∣creas'd, and he we•••• directly to the door of the Dutch∣ess her Cell, which he found Lock'd, and harkning at it, he heard the Dutchesses voice and that of a Man

discoursing with her. Conrade who usually visited the Dutchess at Nights, and spent the most part of it in her Company, was now there and in the raptures of his Lust∣ful pleasures. The Duke knock'd loud at the door, which very much surpriz'd Conrade and the Dutchess, who immedialy opening of it, saw the Duke with anger and Fury in his Face, whereupon he flew ••o his Sword that lay upon the Table, and lay'd two of the Foremost dead at his Feet, whereupon the Duke pre∣sently Concluded by his bold and manly Courage he was not Philip but Conrade, which so far inraged him, that he advanc'd himself against this Lyon Conrade, from whom he receiv'd so home a Thrust that his Sword passing through his Ribbs, appear'd a handful behind his Back, but at the same Instant one of the Guard struck Conrade o're his Head with a Pole-ax, so deep that his Brains came out, and he fell at the same time with the Duke dead at his Feet. The Duke being yet not quite dead commanded them to search Conrade, and finding him to be no Eunuch, and conse∣quently not Philip, commanded him to dispatch the Dutchess that he might have the satisfaction of seeing her punish'd before he died, upon which one of the Guard sheathed his Sword in her fair Breast, as she sat on the side of the Bed amazed and astonisht at the sud∣denness of this Misfortune, the Dutchess fell backwards upon the Bed and dyed, and the Duke presently after expir'd who liv'd only to see her punish'd Thus their three Souls fled away at one moment; but whether they kept pace together, or how separated in the vast abysse of Eternity, is not our business to enquire, but their dead Bodies remain'd a sad spectacle of Divine Vengeance against the horrid Sin of Adultery.

This was the Sad and Lamentable Conclusion of the Adulter∣ous Dutchess, who had she been as Eminent in Chastity, as she was Infamously Incontinent, might have liv'd the Glorious Pattern of Vertue, as she dyed the shameful Ex∣ample of Sin and Misery.

HIST. IX. Juderina, or the Dutch-Adultress.

Juderina commits Fornication with Walter, is got with Child, and afterwards turns Whore at Amsterdam. Is there kept by mine Heer Vandrecht, proves false to him, and commits Adultery with Captain Grantzford, who is kill'd by Vandrecht, and he drown'd in his Escape. She afterwards Marries Titus a Puritan, breaks her Husband by her Riotous Expence, he in Revenge gives her the Foul Disease, which she first communicates to a Quaker, and then dyes miserably of the before-mention'd Distemper.

JVderina was born of poor and honest Parents, in a little Village near Roterdam, and being now arrived to Twelve Years of Age, was entertained by Emantha an Antient Lady and a VVidow, who was reputed very Rich, and for that reason was Courted by several Gentlemen, who more valued her for the Reputation of her Fortune, than they admired the ruins of her Beauty. Amongst others who made sute to the Widow, a Gentleman known by the name of Captain Grantz∣ford, was one, who though he had no Assurance of ob∣taining her, had yet more Encouragement than the rest, being always Civilly treated, and greatly respected. Iuderina who was a Person of a ready and subtle wit, soon learnt to Sing and Dance exactly, Emantha having preferr'd her to wait on her Daughter Editha, by whose favour, and the opportunities of her Atten∣dance on her, she gain'd all the Accomplishments be∣fitting a Person of greater Quality: to all which, Na∣ture added a larger share of Beauty than is commonly seen in Maids of her mean Rank and Family. Captain Grantzford no sooner saw the fair Iuderina but he fell desperately in Love with her, and Iuderina was no less

pleas'd with the Captain's Courtship, which Emantha observing, he soon lost all hopes of obtaining the VViddow, however the satisfaction of enjoying his Lustful Pleasures with Iuderina, made some amends, which every day advanc'd by the seeming Compliance of the VVench.

At this time Young Walter her Son return'd from the University of Leyden, to Visit his Mother, and Sister Editha, whose presence very much obstructed the Amo∣rous proceedings of the Captain, who at first sight was deeply in Love with Iuderina (whose Charms were not to be resisted) and quickly let her know the power of her Eyes, and the Conquest she had made. This proud Beauty gloried in her New Victory, and was not a little glad to see her Young Master at her Feet, fetter'd with her Charming Graces, whom she preferr'd to his Rival Grantzford, and at last yielded to his Em∣braces, who now Enjoyed at pleasure what the Captain's Evil Fortune still deny'd him. The Widow had been very Civil and Respectful to the Captain, notwith∣standing his Folly, and as she had no Passion for him, so she had forsaken him without Mal••ce or Regret; how∣ever for fear he should debauch her Maid (which she very much suspected) she kept a strict Eye over Iude∣rina, whenever Captain Grantzford came to the House; little imagining that her Son had Robb'd that Garden, and Cropt the Flower she had watch'd with so much Care and Vigilance. The Captain soon grew sensible of the double defeat he had receiv'd, in obtaining the Widow, and enjoying her Maid, for which reason he determin'd to try his Fortune with Editha, by whose Courteous and obliging Respects, he might promise himself better success: But her Person was not so Ami∣able, either to Enkindle Love, or inflame his Breast with Lust, Iuderina was the only Amorous and Tempt∣ing Object, but her Cruel Disdain had now forced him to Dispair.

The Young Editha was full of Passion and Desire, and languish'd after the Vnkind Captain, which at length she discover'd to Iuderina, who presently told her that he was not ignorant of her Love, but heard her Sighs without the least Pity or Compassion, and as she could not expect her Mother would ever Consent to the Match if propos'd to her, so she could assure her the Captain's Affections would never be tyed by the Sacred Bonds of Wedlock; but all his Passion was Lust, and his Love Dishonourable, which she sufficiently under∣stood by his offers to herself, who Endeavoured no∣thing more than the lew'd Satisfaction of his desires, which she had hitherto oppos'd with scorn and dis∣dain. But yet she told her if she pleas'd to make an advantage of his Folly, she might both please her fancy and obtain him for a Husband if she would consent to put a Cheat upon him, which she might easily effect by her contrivance. Editha having heard the methods of her Design, approv'd them well, and desir'd her to put them in Practice upon the first Opportunity. The Plot being thus laid betwixt them, the cunning Iuderina seem'd to hearken more willingly to the Courtship of Grantzford, she accepts his Gold, seems to believe his Oaths and Promises, and at the last overcome with his Flateries to grant his Desires. There is nothing in the World so Joyful as the Captain really was at the Consent of Iuderina, the Content of his mind might be easily read in his Eyes, he kiss'd her a Thou∣sand times, and gave her as many Thanks for what he is not like to obtain. The Assignation is made be∣tween them, and the Captain by Agreement to prevent all suspition to take his present leave and return at Night by a back door of which she gave him the key which led to Iuderina's Chamber, where he should find her in Bed, but this was to be done with all silence and Secrecy, for fear of being over heard by Emantha who lodg' in the next Chamber. All this was agreed

to, and the Captain parted with his Mistress, full of hopes and Satisfaction. Night came and young Editha sup∣ply'd the place of Iuderina, obtain'd her desires and spent the Night in the Arms of Grantzford, who at the same time thought he had Embrac'd his Beautiful Mistress.

In the Morning being about to depart, he was amaz'd to find his mistake, and hear the young Editha speak to him, instead of Iuderina, who held him fast in her A••ms, crying out, do not leave me now you have robb'd and deflour'd me; but much more when he saw young Walter enter the Chamber with a drawn Sword and a Parson with him, who told him (with an angry look,) Captain, either salve the Honour of an house which you have now w••unded, by marrying my Sister, or receive the Iust reward of Lust and Treachery, either make Editha your Wife, or satisfie me by your Death. The Captain would have risen from the Bed, and made his defence, but Walter set the point of his Sword to his Breast, and Swore he would Run him Through if he did not de∣clare his immediate Consent, which he was forc'd to, and the Parson having done his Office, they left him and his Bride to their now Lawful pleasures; The Widow was amaz'd next morning at the Re∣lation her Son gave her, of Editha's marriage with Grantzford, which she could not well credit, till a little time after they came to beg her Blessing; She con∣sider'd it could not now be help'd, and after some grave reprehensions accepted their Duty, and caused their private Marriage to be publickly celebrated.

Some time after Iuderina found her self to be with Child, and Endeavour'd to prevent her Shame and disgrace by taking such things as might cause Aborti∣on but in Vain, her great Belly now discover'd it self, and was known to the Widow, who too late found what a Viper she had Entertain'd in her Family, and what Injury she had done her self by that Wenches Beauty▪

who first caused her to lose Grantzford, and now had drawn away the Heart of her Son, and inticed him to Lewdness. But least these two foolish wantons should marry together, and so utterly ruin the Fortune of her Son, she resolv'd to separate them, and accordingly sent him back to Leyden, and Iuderina over to Flanders to lay her great Belly, where not long after she was brought to bed of a Girle, and thus became a Mother before she was a Wife, and had a Child before she had got a Husband. Iuderina being recover'd of her Lying In, the Child by order of the Widow the Grand-mother, was taken from her and put to Nurse in those Parts, and she turn'd out of doors to seek her fortune, wi••h some small pittance of Silver, scarce enough to defray her Charges to Amsterdam, whither she extreamly long'd to go, hoping to get into some Service, or by making an Advantage of her Beauty, to inveagle some Trades∣man to marry her. With this in••ent Iuderina went to Amsterdam, where she no sooner arrived, but she found her Money all spent, and her self in a most miserable and forlorn Condition. By great fortune she got a Lodging, which happen'd to be at a most Infamous and Notorious Bawdy house, where she behaved her self with so much Sim••licity and seeming Innocency, told so fair a Story of her Misfortunes, without one word of Truth, That the Bawd her Landlady believ'd her, and under pretence of commiseration to her pre∣sent Want, but more in hopes of making a good Market of her, kindly and comfortably reliev'd her.

In a short time Iuderina's Beauty was fam'd, of which she knew how to make the best Advantage, and so well improv'd her Talent in those wicked Courses, that she had now considerably inrich'd her-self by prostituting her long lost Maiden-head, to seven or eight wealthy Dutch Cullies, who all swore, and really believ'd they had it, for which they roundly paid. Having thus advanc'd her Fortune, and being unwilling

to Expose her self longer in a place so infamous, she privately withdrew, and took Lodgings between the Stadt-house and Exchange, where she chang'd her Name to Angelica, and pass'd for a vertuous young Lady, whose Brother was a Merchant and suddenly Expected from the Indies. Not long after it happen'd that a Gentleman of good Fortune, call'd Mine Heer Vandretch, had some short repartees with Angelica under her Viz∣ard at the Play-house, who was so taken with her Wit, that he would not leave her till he had seen her Face, which appearing to him, beyond Expectation, handsome, he grew passionately in Love with her, and carried her home to her Lodging in his own Coach. Angelica had cunning enough not to be sur∣priz'd with his first Offers of Kindness, nor alter'd with those rich and Noble presents he made her, which he wondring at, believed her Counterfeit Vertue was real, proposed a Cosiderable Settlement, a Stately House, Gilded Coach, and rich Liveries, if she would consent to live with him and be his Mistress, which she at last agreed to, rather out of passion and respect to his person, than that such ge∣nerous Offers had any power over her Chaste and Innocent mind. She now goes abroad in her Charriot, sits in the Boxes at Plays, with all the bravery and Impu∣dence of a Kept-Mistress, or more Notorious Strumpet.

Being one day at the Play-house, she was seen by Captain Grantzford (whom some business had brought to Town) who presently knew her, and much wondred to see that Beauty (which ever appear'd to him with a more than ordinary Lusture) now so re∣splendent with Jewells, and all the dazling Embellish∣ments Art could invent. He could not but confess that she who before appear'd a twinkling Star of Beau∣ty, was now become an illuminated Sun, Bright and Glorious. The Captain made his Complement to her, which she receiv'd with more favourable Expressions

of respect to him, and in a Short time they became so intimate that he often visited her, where he was blest with those ravishing Delights he had so long Coveted in vain. This Amour of Grantzford with Angelica was at last suspected by Vandretch, who surpriz'd him at the botom of the Stairs, one Night as he had newly parted with Angelica, and with his Sword Ran him to the Heart, of which he immediately dy'd. Van∣dretch sent for a Friend and acquainted him with his present misfortune, dispos'd the care of his House and Goods into his hands, disrobed Angelica of all her finery, turn'd her out of Doors and then made his Escape, but in his way to the Brill was unhappily drown'd.

Angelica having Sav'd a little money, put her self in a plain Country dress, remov'd to a remote place in the Town, where she took a Convenient Chamber and professed herself a Saint, going to all the private meetings she could hear of, where she Sigh'd, lifted up her Eyes, made Faces, was diligent at Lectures and Ex∣poundings, so that in a little time she began to be taken notice of, and attracted the Eyes of many a young Zealot and Amorous Puritan. She changed her Name to Mabella, though Iuderina and Angelica the Hypocrite were the same in Heart and mind as Mabella the Saint. At length the Piety and Devotion of Mabella was taken Notice of, as well as her Modesty and Beauty, by Titus a Young Brother, a Linnen Draper, who was resolv'd not to Marry out of his own Tribe, and only wanted a Wife to make him Happy. She observ'd his Eyes to be often fixt upon her, and tho' he took Notes, and wrote in Characters none else could Read, he look'd as if he had been drawing her Picture, he was so in∣tent upon her. His Courtship was Sentences of Love and Cant intermix'd, and Cupid and Knox were joyn'd together: His Amorous Discourse was larded with fragments of Sermons, and Doctrines and Uses shuffled

together, with Notes taken out of the Academy of Com∣plements. There was such a strange medly of Love and Religion, of Wooing and Praying, of pious Non∣sence and smutty Courtship, that Mabella could not but laugh in her sleeve, how gravely and demurely soever she look'd. Titus at last won the good will of his Dear Mabella, and what she much desir••d, they were privately Married, and she once again Mistress of an House.

Mabella had not been long married before she began to patch and deck her self with Ribons, and Titus to his great grief saw his Shop crowded with Gallants in∣stead of Chap men, who came to Cheapen his Wife rather than Buy his Linnen; he first reprov'd her im∣modesty himself, and then desir'd the Pastor to repre∣hend the Lewd Carriage of his Wife, but to no pur∣pose: so that seeing himself undone, he resolv'd to shut up Shop and leave her to her Fortune. Mabella had yet scap'd the Pox, that Ruin and Confusion of so many of Venus her Votaries; but as many have Escaped being wounded in a Battel who have been kill'd in a Skir∣mish, so far'd it with Mabella, Titus plainly perceiving his Horns grew as fast as his Estate wasted, was resolv'd to be first Reveng'd, and then leave her. To this end he designedly got a severe Clap, which he communi∣cated to Mabbella and then deserted her, carrying away all his Goods along with him to France. Mabella lay long Sick, and was twice Fluxed for her Foul Distemper; but wanting Money to carry on her Cure, was forced to consider of New Methods to relieve her presett Wants, before it was compleated.

Mabella was now again left to her shifts, her Expen∣sive Clap, with the Apothecaries, Surgeons and Doctors Bills, had robb'd her of all that little she had left, whereupon she resolved to change her Counterfeit Pro∣fession of Religion, from that of Puritan to Quaker, and accordingly took a private Lodging at a Quaker's

House, who had known her Husband, and believ'd him to be as she represented him, a sly and debauched Fellow, pitty'd her very much, and by her discourse judg'd her to be very Innocent, and a Zealous Profes∣sor. To this Quaker's House resorted several of that Sect, and amongst the rest, one Simon an itinerant Hol∣der Forth, who no sooner saw Mabella, who was pretty well recover'd of her Clap, her Colour coming fresh into her Cheeks, and her Old wanton Flame into her Eyes, but the Carnal and Spiritual Man in him began to have a desperate Conflict. We are all Flesh and Blood, and the little god Cupid is no respecter of Sects; he spares no Mortal that is composed of those Atoms. Simon with the wonted Boldness that attends that sort of People, made an Acquaintance with Mabella, who en∣tertain'd him with a suitable Freedome, and whilst he endeavour'd to delude her with his Holy Discourses, Of the Light within, and his Holy Inspiration, she cheated him as much with her Modest Looks. Mabella hearken'd to all his Canting very diligently, and in a short time began to reform her Dress, ript off all her Laces, thr••w away her Ribbons, put on plain Coyfs and Pinners, and laid aside all her Babylonish Trinkets.

Simon overjoy'd at this Conversion, carried Mabella to their Meetings, where she endured their Bawling without Laughter, and heard them Rant and Cant, and Raile and speak Nonsence, w••th much Devotion and Counterfeit Z••al. Few days mist she was not at their Meetings, and Mabella was become a very Pro∣fest, Rigid, and Unmannerly Quaker: Simon was now more in Love than ever, and having Converted her from the World, he determin'd next to convert her to himself. Mabella was pretty in all Dresses, and no disguise could hinder the power of her Beauty; But to Simon she seem'd much more handsome since she was in the Habit of a Sister, and it was now Lawful for him to say that to her, he ought not to the Prophane, and Wicked

of the World. He therefore inform'd her of the Secrets of his Heart, and by what Spirit he was moved, and en∣deavour'd to persuade her, That all things are Lawful to the Pure, That the World ought not to Iudge the Actions of the Righteous, That Defilement was from within, and the Impu∣rity of the Mind only could contaminate the Body; That as for her Husband he was a Carnal Man, and it was no Sin to Rob an Aegyptian, That if he was at this time under a Temptation, she ought to give way to his Frailty, for she had drawn his De∣sires after her: With such like Stuff, all to persuade her Fairly and plainly to Lye with him. Mabella soon perceiv'd by the Light within, that it was either the Spirit of Love or Lust, that began to move the Carnal Man, however she Answer'd him so Cunninly and Obligingly, in his own Canting-way, still harping on her present Necessi∣ties, that he found the ready way to gain her was to supply her wants, which he plentifully did out of their Publick Stock. With this Gold he opened the Heart of Mabella, and Simon and she had Thee'd it any Thou'd it so long, till they came to the Closest Conjunction, and mingled their Spiritual Embraces after a Carnal way. Simon obtain'd his End with advantage, for the Clap now breaking out, she severely Pox'd him, and not daring to stay longer, for fear of being discover'd, pil∣lag'd the Holy Brother of all the Charitable Corban he was entrusted with, and stole away to Roterdam, where the Venom of her Distemper returning with greater Violence upon her, she dyed half eaten up with that Foul and Poysonous Disease.

Such is the Vgliness of Sin, That the Devil himself is asham'd of his own Deformity, and often deceives us in the disguise of an Angel of Light: The Wicked Juderina counterfeits Modesty to conceal her Lewdness, and Religion to hide her Debaucheries: but Heaven in good time punishes her Cr••fty Vice, by the fruitful Off-Spring of her own Sins.

HIST. X. Count Waldbourg and Bellanca.

The Lord Moruffi is taken Prisoner by the Count of Wald∣bourg, and promised to be Released, if his Lady Bellanca would Consent to his Lust, which she by her Husband's Ad∣vice agrees to. The false Count having Enjoy'd her, cuts off Moruffi's Head and gives it her. She complains to the King, who obliges him first to Marry her, and then causes him to be beheaded, and gives her his Estate. Bellanca is after∣wards got with Child by a Black, she and Clora murder the Bastard. Bellanca stabbs her self, and Clora is hang'd.

IN Gothland, the best and richest Province of Sweed∣land, which is the hinthermost part of Scandia next to Denmark, stands the Famous and Impregnable Castle of Colmar, of which Count Wald-bourge was Gover∣nour, in the Third Year of the Reign of that August and Victorious Prince, Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden. At this time there were Bloody Wars be∣tween the Two Crowns of Sweden and Denmark, and the Lord of Moruffi Lieutenant General of the Danish Army, by the Command of the King, made a descent into Gothland with an Army of Thirty Thousand Horse and Foot, and having miserably ravag'd the Country, at last sate down before the Castle of Colmar, which he straitly Beseig'd. I shall say nothing of those many bold Assaults made by the Danes upon the place, nor the Stout resistance and Courage of the Swedes, brave and daring Actions were perform'd on both sides, the Soldiers at last growing very much distress'd for want of provisions, the Besieged made a desperate Salley, in which they had the good Fortune to take the Lord of Moruffi Prisoner, whom they brought into the Castle and presented to the Governour. The Count of Po∣lenzi

General of the Swedish Forces, receiving an Ac∣count of the ill Condition the Castle of Colmar was in, made a speedy March with his Army for the Releif of it, which the Danes having notice of, and consider∣ing they had lost their General the Lord Moruffi, on whose Courage and Conduct they very much de∣pended, they immediately rais'd the Seige and re∣turn'd.

The Virtuous and Beautiful Belanca upon the first Report that her Dear Lord was a Prisoner in the Castle of Colmar, was very much afflicted, but there being some overtures of a Truce then made between the Two Crowns, shee hop'd upon the Conclusion of it the Lord Moruffi would be discharg'd; but the Terms propos'd not being agreed to, the War was renew'd with greater Violence. Three months after a Cessa∣tion of Arms was Consented to, for a short time, and Belanca attended with some few of her Servants, ha∣ving obtain'd a Pass-port from General Polenzi, took a Journey, full of hazard and danger, to the Castle of Colmar, to see her Beloved Lord and Husband. The Count of Waldbourge the Governour receiv'd her with all respect and kindness, who soon became an Earnest Suitor to him for the Release of Moruffi, offering all her Jewels and a very considerable Sum for his Ran∣som, which the Governour told her he could not comply withal without direct and positive Orders from the King. Belanca told him that would be a matter of great difficulty to Effect, till a Peace was Concluded, which was very uncertain, but if he pleas'd he might suffer him to Escape, for which she would make him the same generous Present; the Governour answer'd that was so great a piece of Trea∣chery to his Prince, that in Honour he could never ad∣mit it. The Fidelity of this Noble Count which was not to be Corrupted by Gold, was soon Conquer'd by the more powerful Charms of Belanca's Beauty, whose

Vertue after he had long and in vain sollicited, he promis'd to free the Lord Moruffi his Prisoner, if she would Consent to his unchaste Desires, and upon no other Terms whatever: Belanca was very much sur∣priz'd at his discourse, and told him, I wonder my Lord that you who have so great a Regard to your Honour (as you but now Exprest your self) can have so little Esteem for your own Vertue, or my Chastity. Belanca would have proceeded but the Count interrupted her, saying, Madam I expect not your Advice but Consent, if my Lord Moruffi is so dear to you, you know upon what Terms you may gain his Freedom, which if you do not readily Comply with, I will pre∣vent all his designs of Escape, by a Closer Confinement. Be∣lanca desir'd leave till the next day to consider of it, and then promis'd to return her Answer, and having parted from the Count, acquainted her Husband with the Discourse which had pass'd between them, that she found the Count altogether inflexible, and unless she submitted to such dishonourable Terms should never be able to Obtain his Liberty upon any other.

Moruffi was very unwilling to purchase his Freedom with the loss of his Honour; but his Restraint growing now more irksome and tedious to him, by the daily hopes of Liberty, he at last Advis'd his Lady to Con∣sent to the Count's demand, tho' they were rigid and severe, adding, That since she was now in his power, he might possibly force her Vertue to a Surender upon worser Terms. Be∣lanca, who was wholly at the Devotion of her Lord, whom she lov'd intirely, was with some regret at last prevail'd upon by his Argument, assuring him, That she could at the same Instant, with greater Satisfaction, Sacrifice her Life for his Ransom, than prostitute her Honour. The False Count having now Satiated himself with the full Enjoyment of his Lustful pleasures, left Belanca in his Chamber, telling her, he would now go and give present orders for the Lord Moruffi's discharge, desireing her ••o stay and expect him there: whereupon he commanded

four of his Servants to go to the Lord Moruffi's Cham∣ber, and bring his Head to him in that Embroyder'd Bag, which was accordingly done. The Count took the Bag in his own hands, and went to Belanca's Apart∣ment, where she was with great Impatience expect∣ing Moruffi, and told her, Madam, take there your beloved Husband, Belanca not understanding his meaning, open'd the Bag, and there saw Moruffis Head fresh Bleeding, at which she Swoond away, and had not the diligent Attendance and Care of the Women, and the Excellent Vertues of the Cordials they gave her, forc'd her Soul unwillingly back to her hated body, she had immediately followed her Beloved Lord. Three days after the Count being acquainted that her passion was something abated, made a Visit to her, and by all the tender Expressions of Love and Af∣fection, excusd the late bloody Act he had been Guilty of, that having once tasted those ravishing de∣lights, he not only resolvd never to part with her, but could endure no Rival, and that not his Cruelty to Moruffi, but his Love to Belanca was the Occasion of it. The Count at last won so much upon her, that she seemed wholly to forget Moruffi, and with pleasure and delight wanton'd in his Lustful Arms, till Three Months after, that Noble Prince Gustavus Adolphus being Encamp'd with his Army Ten Miles off, rode over to his Castle of Colmar, to whom Belanca on her Knees re∣lated this horrible Cruelty of the Count to her Husband the Lord Moruffi, and Implor'd his Justice against him the King having understood the whole Intrigue of their Amours, ask'd her the next day what would Satisfie her for the loss she receiv'd in her Husband, and propos'd a Match with the Count which should compensate the Injury she receiv'd. Belanca accepted of the Kings proposal, and the Count was well pleas'd his Punishment was not more severe; whereupon they were Married in the Kings presence, who told

her, I have now in some measure Answer'd your Complaint, and now I will satisfie my own Iustice, and immediately order'd the Governour should be Beheaded, and gave her all his Estate.

Belanca not long after remov'd to Stockholm, where her own native Beauty, and the Report of her great Riches, gain'd her many Suit••rs, and amongst those, Adrastus second Son to the Duke of Helsinga, with a more particular Zeal, Admir'd and Courted her: Six Months were now past, since he had laid Siege to the Affections of Belanca, yet had not the least private Par∣ley with her, which added more to the Esteem and Devotion he had for her. At last, upon the impor∣tunity of Prayers and Presents, one of her Gentlewo∣men promis'd to bring him in the Night time, to her Ladies Lodgings, and so to dispose of him, that he should see her pull off her Cloaths before she went to Bed, walking in her Smock about the Chamber for Coolness, and Singing and Playing upon the Lute, which she did admirably well. Adrastus was over∣joy'd with the thoughts of so great an happiness, Be∣lanca was very surprizing under the disadvantages of a Widows Habit, but would certainly be much more Beautiful, when she appear'd like a Naked Venus; Her great pretensions to Vertue and Modesty, laid so severe a Restraint upon her Conversation, That she rarely or never admitted any Gallant to a private Discourse; These Considerations rais'd Adrastus his Expectations to the highest degree of Pleasure and Contentment. Night being come, Adrastus by the direction of Clora, Belanca's Woman, convey'd himself into her House, and was so conveniently plac'd, that he saw her sitting on a Couch, reading in a Prayer-Book whilst her Wo∣men were undressing her. Belanca was ready to go in∣to Bed, when Clora entreated her Mistress to Sing, and put a Lute into her Hand, which she readily comply'd withal (it being her usual Custom, when she was not

Melancholy indispos'd) and perform'd so well, that Adrastus could hardly forbear casting himself at her Feet, there to Act the Part of the Ecstatick Lover. She Sung not long, but went to Bed, her Women with∣drew to their Chambers, and Adrastus went out un∣discover'd at a Door Clora had left open for him, but coming into the Court, he found the Gate shut fast and Lock'd. Not knowing what to do in this Distress, he sate down upon the side of a Well in a Corner of the Court, to consider with himself: While his Thoughts were thus Engag'd, he perceiv'd a Door open that belong'd to some part of Belanca's Lodgings, and saw the fair Widow, whom he thought fast Asleep, with a Wax-Candle in one Hand, and a Plate cover'd with Jellyes and Conserves in the other; she had a Rich Flowr'd Gown wrapp'd loose about her; and in this Dress she was so full of Charms and Attraction, that he much wondred what this Beautiful Phantasm meant, sometimes flattering himself that he was the Person she sought after. At length he perceived her to go towards the Stable door, whither he at a distance follow'd her, and supposing she went to visit some Ser∣vant that was Sick, wondred at the Excess of her Pious Charity. He hid himself behind one of the Horses, and saw her go to the Bed-side of a Black a m••re, that was Sick, who seem'd to be about Thirty Years of Age, but with so Ghostly a Look, that he appear'd like the true Image of Death. Adrastus admir'd the unparallel'd Goodness of Belanca, who took up the Negro's Coverlet, and having raised his Head, sate down by him, and with Tears in her Eyes, wiped the Cold Sweat from his Forehead with her Handkercheif. A∣drastus knew not what to think of a Charity so Tran∣scendent, when she with show'rs of Tears, Ask'd him How he did? and with a Voice interrupted by Sobs; My dear Franck (said she) Art thou resolv'd to dye, and with thy own, be my Death too? Thou spakest not to me, my

Dearest, Take Heart my Soul, if thou desirest I should Live, and Eat a little of this Ielly, for my sake, who Loves thee, who Adores thee, Kiss me my Angel, Kiss me and recover thy Health or let me dye with thee. To this effect were her Expostu∣lations, joyning her Angelical Face, to the Diabolical Countenance of the Moor, which she bedew'd with Tears. When he with his scraggy Hand removing her Face from his own, with a hollow Voice, said to her, What would you have of me Madam? why will you not let me dye in quiet? Is it not enough you have reduced me to this miserable Condition I am in, but now you Expect at the poynt of Death, I should sacrifice the few Minutes I have left, to the Satisfaction of your Insatiable Inclinations? Take a Hus∣band, Take a Husband Madam, and Expect no more from me, who am more fit for the Cold Embraces of Death, than the Warm Pleasures of your Lustful Arms. Having so said, he slunk down into the Bed, and so suddenly, that Belanca could not get one word more from him, but return'd to her Chamber with a Countenance full of Sadness and Discontent, like a disconsolate Widow at the Fu∣neral of a Husband she dearly lov'd. Adrastus lay close in the Corner of the Stable till the Gate was open, and getting into the Streets return'd to his Lodgings with Wonder and Astonishment. Next day as he pass'd by Belanca's House, the Moor was carried out to his Burial, and a Week after he receiv'd this Letter from Belanca, by one of her Servants.

Belanca to Adrastus.

YOU would have me believe you think me not Vnhandsome, and I cannot but Acknowledge I am so taken with you, That I am willing to Grant you immediately what I had not promised till a Year was Expir'd. My Person and Estate are at your disposal, and though I cannot be too Circumspect in a Business of this Nature, yet your Merit and my Affection, shall be my Security.

Belanca.

Adrastus was now alter'd in his Resolutions of Mar∣riage, and having read her Letter twice or thrice over, return'd this Answer:

Adrastus to Belanca.

I Am naturally a Person of a very nice Conscience, and there∣fore cannot without some remorse, Answer your Proposal of Marriage, you being a Widow but since last Week. You are much more Oblig'd to the Memory of your Negro, who lost his Life in your Service, and can bestow no less than a Year in Be∣wayling the miscarriage of a Person, whose Performances you thought so Extraordinary. In the Intrim we shall both of us have time to Consider what we have to do.

Adrastus.

Adrastus having sent his Mistress this Letter, imme∣diately left Stockholm, and retir'd into the Country, where five Months after he received this sad Account of her miserable End.

Belanca finding her self with Child by her African Gallant, conceal'd her Great-Belly from all the World but her Confident Clora, who Assisting her at the time of her Delivery, they murder'd the Tawny Off-Spring to conceale the Shame of her Lustful Dalliances, and Clora commanded to Bury it in the Garden, but being Discover'd, was Apprehended and brought before the Officers of Justice, where in hopes of Pardon, she Con∣fess'd how far she was Guilty, Charging the rest on Belanca, who having Notice by the Officers who came to Seize her, what Clora had Accus'd her of, what through the horrour of the Guilt, and dread of the Punis••ent, snatching up a Ponyard which lay upon the Table, she stabb'd her self to the Heart, and dyed im∣mediately. Clora had Confess'd her self Guilty of the

Murder of the Infant, which though it might look ra∣ther like an Act of Service and Fidelity to her Lady, than a malicious Design in her Self, was condemn'd to be hang'd, and Three Days after Executed.

Nothing Encourages Sin more, than the false Hopes of Im∣punity; for did we really believe the Iustice of H••av'n wou'd most certainly punish our Sins in proportion to our own Demerits; the Murderer would temper his Passion, and the Adulterer cool his Lust. But that thou may'st no more dare to Sin, than thou art willing and able to bear the Punishment Heav'n shall infl••ct on thy Guilty Head; I have here represented the sad Consequence of those two horrid Sins, Murther and Adultery, where in Variety of Tragical Examples, thou may'st see the Iustice of Heav'n Triumphant in the Punishment of such Notorious Offenders.