Artamenes, or, The Grand Cyrus an excellent new romance / written by that famous wit of France, Monsieur de Scudery ... ; and now Englished by F.G., Gent.

The History of the King of Assyria, of Intaphernes, of Atergates, of Istrina, and of the Princesse of BYTHINIA.

TO the end Madam you may more easily be〈…〉〈…〉 ••hat the Prince Intaphernes and the Princess Istrina are accomplished with a〈…〉〈…〉 vertues which persons of their quality ought to be, I must begin my relation with an Elogie to the Queen Nitocris under whom they were educated, and of whom they both were most tenderly loved: But Madam, this Queen hath so many, so great, and such rare quali∣ties, that if I should undertake to describe but a part of them, I should want time to acquaint you ith wwhat you desire to know. and to speak the very truth, it need not be brought into any question; but a Queen whose name hath filled all Asia, is fresh in the memory of a Princess whose glory fills all the earth: I will not therefore stay you Madam with applauds of a great Queen, whose vertues I do believe you sufficiently esteem, maugre the violences of the King her sonne: Nor shall I stay you long with acquainting you in things so farre fetched, as I should have done, if I had not under∣stood from Martesia, how you are not ignorant of the affection which Gadates had unto Nitocris, and of her vertue in thwarting her inclination unto Gadates: so that I shall content my selfe with reviving in your memory, that she having no mind to put the Crown of that Prince whom she loved for feare of causing a civill War in her Do∣minions, but married another whom she loved not: and with telling you how she ba∣nished him who had the greatest share in her heart: How she commanded him to mar∣ry: How he obeyed her; and how afterwards, to gratifie his obedience, she intended to set the Princess Istrina upon the Assyrian Throne by marrying her unto the Prince her sonne. After this Madam, I believe you will imagine that the Prince Intaphernes, and the Princess Istrina were educated with all imaginable care, it being easie to be conjectured, that the wisest Queen which ever reigned in Assyria since Semiramis, would not neglect the education of a Princess whom she designed for a Throne, and of a young Prince whose Father had such a share in her heart, and whom she looked upon as one who was to be brother in Law unto the King of Assyria: And certainly all her cares were not lost; for I can assure you Madam, that these two young persons did much exceed their age both in beauty and spirit, and were the admiration not only of all the Court, but of all Babylon, w^ch you know Madam is one of the greatest Cities in the world. I shall not insist Madam, upon any particular descriptions of Istrina's

beauty; for since the Prince Intaphernes is a very picture of her, your own eyes may be judge. I shall only say thus much, that never was any brown beauty more lovely then hers, nor fuller of attractive charms: As for her spirit, her physiognomy doth promise what it is, to wit, great and noble: and which is most pleasing, her humor is of such a sweet composition, as it gains her more hearts then her beauty.

Yet for all that, this sweet and lovely Lady has a heart full of ambition, and so sensible of glory, as she is ready to sacrifice any thing, even all her pleasures unto it. She being of such a temper as I have described, her hopes were flattered up with being a Queen, and her mind was so blown up with thoughts of Grandure, as all her cares were how to please the Queen Nitocris, and the Prince of Assyria, whom she was made believe she was to marry: Since you know Madam what Antipathy there was in him towards her, though he had no other reason for it, but because he would not sute his fancy unto the will of any others, I will not insist upon any aggra∣vations of it: Let me only tell you thus much, that because the Princess Istrina was of the fair complexion, he hated all the brown, were they never so fair, & hated Inta∣phernes only because he was her brother. Indeed you know Madam, how he treated him one day when they were hunting together, when the Prince Intaphernes more dexterous and happy then he, killed a Lyon: But Madam, the thing which I believe you do not know, or at least have but a confused notion of it, is, that whilst all the Court wondered to see this aversion, as the Assyrian Prince towards her, shee made many in Love with her: And amongst the rest, there was a young Prince in that Court called Atergatis, who was most desperately in love with her, and who was no lesse meritorious of her Love, then she of his; the Prince Mazanes who knowes him, is able to tell you, that the Prince Atergatis is one of the most amiable persons in the world, and the fittest to make a faithfull and discreet Lover.

As for his person it is pleasing, and it's hard to look long upon it, and not love it. Since his Quality made him a Companion with the Prince of Assyria, in all his plea∣sure, he was often times a witnesse of that aversion which he had to the Princess I∣strina: And I have heard 〈…〉〈…〉ce say, that this his aversion was partly a cause of his Love; because not being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 conceive how a Prince of his spirit could possibly hate so faire a person as she, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had observed some particular faults in her, hee therefore applyed himself unto her, to see what was the reason her beauty did not captivate the Prince of Assyria's heart: so that seeing her very often, he saw her too oft for his quietnesse, for he loved her with as much violence as it was possible for any living to love. However, since he knew that the Queen Nitocris was fully resolved that the Prince her sonne should marry her: and since he very well observed the ambitious veine of the Princess Istrina, he durst not therefore declare himself, and therefore smothered up most tormenting flames: but the oddest passage in his Love was, that he adhered so much unto the interests of the Princess Istrina, as he could not choose but hate the King of Assyria, because he carryed himself harshly towards her, though it would have pinched him to the soule if he had seen him love her.

Since at that time the heart of Istrina was swelled only with ambition; and seeing her selfe looked upon by all the Court, as her that was to be Queen of Assyria, shee did imagine that none durst presume to look so high as she: Insomuch, as though she did every day see the Prince Atergatis, and though he talked with her as much as he could, and Courted her with continuall trifling services, yet she did not perceive he was in love with her, though many others observed it, and though shee her selfe had a good inclination to esteem him.

The Prince of Assyria was the first that found it out, and was very glad of it; for he heartily wished that the Princess Istrina had a Lover whom she loved, purposely that he might have a better pretence for not loving her, as Nitocris would have him: And indeed this violent Prince seeing that the Lawes of the Land required that hee should Marry Istrina, because there was none of her Quality in all the Kingdome whom else he could marry: And seeing that the Qu: Nitocris was resolute, & would exact obedience from him, as soon as the Peace with Phrigia was compleated, which was under negotiation, therefore he had recourse unto the most extream Reme∣dies.

Then he made a hundred odd Propositions unto the Prince Mazanes, who would not hearken unto them: so that perceiving the Prince Atergatis was in love with I∣strina,

he sent one day to him to tell him that he would use his best assistance to make him happy. Atergatis much surprized at the Prince of Assyria's Complement, told him, that the only way to make him happy was to give him some occasion of do∣ing him some considerable service: No, no, replyed this violent Prince, I meane not to make you happy by your serving me, but by my serving you: I know you are in love with the Princess Istrina: Alas Sir (said Atergatis, and interrupted him) I owe you more respects, then to have any thoughts of that most excellent Princess, but such as I ought to have of one whose Subject I must hereafter be: No no Atergatis, (said he unto him) do not dissemble the truth, but confesse freely unto me that you are the Princess Istrina's slave without feare of being hereafter her Subject, for Ias∣sure you that I will never put the Crown upon her head: Therefore for your owne satisfaction, and to free me from the perpetuall persecution of the Queen, who would have me marry her; give me leave to steale her away for you, and put her into your power, yet so as I may not be seen in the businesse: I will find you a most safe sanctuary for a Retreat, where you may wait untill the Queens anger be over, and untill you have got the Princess Istrina's Love, Sir, replyed Atergatis (extream∣ly amazed and puzled to answer the Prince of Assyria) I have already told you that I have no thoughts of the Princess Istrina, but such as becomes me, though I must needs confess that I doe infinitely admire her: But were it so that I loved this most excellent Princess, I would not Sir accept of this offer, because it is not the way to obtain the love of that illustrious person, & because it would hinder her of a Crown: Therefore Sir, whether I be her Lover, or not her Lover, I ought not to consent unto your proposition.

Your answer (replyed the King of Assyria) doth so much surprize me, as I almost believe my selfe mistaken in thinking you to be in Love with Istrina; for I cannot conceive it possible one should refuse the possession of her he loves, though he come to her by the most difficulty and unjust wayes in the world.

But perhaps (pursued he) you do not believe me and are not perswaded of my great aversion to the Princess Istrina: yet I do prot〈…〉〈…〉 〈…〉〈…〉ergatis, I hate Intapher∣nes because he is her brother, and should hate you a〈…〉〈…〉 Lover, were I not in hopes of perswading you be her Ravisher also: I must confesse when I doe force my eyes to examine her beauty, I do find her fair: and my reason sometimes tells me, she has wit enough. But for all this she displeaseth me: I cannot abide her; and I am sometimes ve∣ry sorry that I can only hate her, and that I cannot but only in my heart scorn her.

How Sir, replyed Atergatis (who could not endure to heare her he adored, so vili∣fied) can it be possible the Princesse Istrina should dislike you, and stifle your inclina∣tion? How is it possisible Atergatis (replyed the Prince of Assyria) that the Prin∣cesse Istrina should please you, charm you, and move your heart, and yet not de∣sire to enjoy her by the way which I propound? Yet you love her; and I do plainly see it in your eyes, that you cannot endure I should speak so sharply against her: Therefore I doe declare unto you, that you must do one of these three things: You must either carry her away, or make her love you, or else make me hate you: For if I find you to be only a bare Adorer of Istrina, I shall hate you perhaps more then if I were your Rivall.

As Atergatis was studying for an answer, as good luck was, the Prince Mazanes and others came in and broke off their discourse, and also gave him an occasion of quitting that where his soule suffered the torments of a Hell.

But to sum up his torments, as he was going from this Princes Chamber, he met with one who stayed him a long time in talk of some business; and as he was talking, one of the Assyrian Princes servants passed by him, and was asked by another whe∣ther he went, and he answered aloud, that his Master sent him to seek a Prince whose name was Armatrites: So that Atergatis knowing this Prince to be in love with the Princesse Istrina, and imagining that the Prince of Assyria sent for his Rivall to make the same proposition which he had done unto him, he was so perplexed that he was forced to quit him he was talking with, and to goe home purposely to resolve with himselfe what course to take: I understood since, from his own mouth, that he was more perplexed then ever was any amorous heart: Sometimes he was glad to see the Prince of Assyria's aversion to Istrina; sometimes again he was angry at it, and other∣whiles he repented of his non-acceptance of the offer made unto him, fearing lest his

Rivall should anticipate him: What a most miserable crosse destiny is mine? (would he say himselfe upon examination of this strange adventure) I do love a Princesse who knows not that I adore her, because my respects unto the Prince for whom she is de∣stined does hinder me from letting her know it; and yet this very same Prince who thinks my felicity would be his misery, offers me to steale her away for mee, and put her in my power. Think well on it Atergatis (would he say) consider whether 'tis not thy best course to return and tell the Prince thou dost repent of thy refusall: For truly since he is resolved not to make her a Queen, is there any one in all the King∣dome that is more worthy of her then thy selfe in respect of thy violent and respective passion?

But said he, (and reprehended himselfe immediately after) Canst thou be so insolent as to make any Declaration of Love unto her, after thou hast caused her to be Ravish∣ed away? Take heed Atergatis, with what eyes a wronged Princesse will look upon thee, a Princess who will think that thou hast taken a Crown from her: Imagine that thou seest Istrina incensed? Let not thy love ecclips thy vertue? Remember that thou hast ever thought, and that with reason, that whosoever excludes respect from this passion, doth ruine it: and that to take away a Princess whose heart is not obtained, is the most unjust thing in the world, and the greatest folly one can commit: Hearken therefore unto reason in spight of thy love, and follow its Counsells rather then the King of Assyria's: But alas alas, said he, if thy Rivall should not be so generous as thy selfe, but should accept of what this unjnst Prince should offer him, in what a deplorable condition art thou then? what good will all thy respects of her thou ado∣rest do thee, since she does not know thou lovest her? And who cannot think her selfe obliged unto thee for a thing she is ignorant of? Examine seriously Atergatis, what course is best to be taken: If thou wilt not doe as the King of Assyria would have thee, thy Rivall perhaps will: If thou dost carry away Istrina, she will hate thee: If thou dost not carry her away, another in all probability will. What canst thou do, unfortunate man, in such a strange condition? Canst thou suffer thy Princess to be carryed away without acquainting her with the misfortune which hangs over her head? Canst thou give her a greater testimony of thy esteem and love, then by letting her know it? But alas (said he, and sighed) how canst thou at one time acquaint the Princess Istrina, that thou lovest her; that the Prince of Assyria hates her; that thou hast refused the offer of her taking away; that thou art perswaded thy Rivall will not startle at it: The least of all these is enough to tremble thee into a Palsey in telling it, since it would make her both sad and angry: Consider what an angry businesse it would be to tell her all these things at once: Yet why shouldst thou pause upon it; For though there were no other reason to move thee unto a discovery of what thou knowest, yet her interest alone is enough to oblige thee unto it, as her Friend, and not her Lover. But what phrases canst thou make use of to expresse those difficulties, which will so much surprize her? She hath ever looked upon thee as one who was to be her Subject, and thon goest to tell her that she must look upon thee as her Lover; and as a man who wisheth with all his heart that she may never be a Queen. She ex∣pects the King of Assyria will put a Crown upon her head, and thou tellest her that he would steale her away for another, and that he will perhaps find one who will ac∣cept of an offer so unjust, so contrary to generosity, and even Love it selfe. Never∣thelesse, the service thou owest unto the Princesse Istrina requires it from thee, and thy Passion commands it.

But yet once more Atergatis, what words wilt thou use? I know not (said he and sighed) yet without more ado leave it unto thy Love to suggest such as shall perswade the Princess, that since the King of Assyria does not adore her, he is unworthy of her esteem: and that since thou lovest her more then ever man loved any, thou dost me∣rit some share in her heart.

After this Atergatis being fully resolved to acquaint Istrina with the passage, and to give her such hints as might make her guesse at his Love, he waited with much im∣patience untill after dinner. But in the interim, his reason suggested unto him, that perhaps he should expose himselfe to the Prince of of Assyria's hatred; if it should so fall out that the Princess Istrina should discover unto him what he should tell her: yet this did not divert him from his first intentions, and from going unto the Queen as soon as the hour, when every one used to goe, was come.

Since the Princesse Istrina did much esteem him, and ranked him in the number of her intimate friends: and since the Prince Intaphernes did dearly love him, he hoped to find an easie opportunity of talking with her, either in the Queens presence, or her own chamber: And he found the opportunity more favourable then he hoped, for since it was then very hot, and the Sun began to grow low, the Princess went to walk in those rare Gardens, made heretofore by the famous Semiramis, and which as you know Madam, being vaulted underneath, and supported by huge, high, and stately pillars, has the reputation over all Asia, to hang miraculously in the Ayre, considering their prodigious bignesse. The Princess Istrina having that day made choise of this Walk, there being very few company which frequented it, because the Queen not going the crowd of the Court stayed with her, since it was upon her that all Graces and Favours depended. As for Atergatis, since his business was not there, he followed the Princess Istrina, and was so happy, that when he came first into her presence, she asked him if he would walk with her: He joyfully accepted of such a fa∣vourable opportunity, and presented her his hand to lead her out: Since it was a great height to mount into those miraculous Gardens, which she made choice of for her diversion, she was a little weary when she was up: So that to rest her selfe a while, to the end her walk might be the more delightfull, she did sit down in an Arbor made be∣tween four Palm trees, which being intertwisted with each other, did make a most delicate shade, there being seates of Cyprus wood which perfumed the place. The Princesse Istrina sitting under such a cooling shade, the Prince Atergatis had all the conveniency of talking with her he could desire; For since there was no persons with her of his Quality but himselfe, as soon as he began to talke seriously with the Prin∣cess, as if he had some secresie of importance to impart, all the rest of the company did out of their respects retire some distance from them: so that Atergatis, not to loose such a precious moment, Madam (said he unto her with a trembling heart) I have a businesse to acquaint you withall, which I wish it were already told you, be∣cause it is most necessary you should know it, and yet I dare hardly tell it, unlesse I have the authority of your Command.

Istrina surprized at the discourse of Atergatis, did look seriously upon the matter, and endeavoured to guess at the businesse; but yet though her faire eyes did look se∣riously in the eyes of Atergatis, and saw them full of love, yet they could not discover the passion of his heart: So that not knowing what to think, I do confess Atergatis, said she, I cannot imagine what you can tell of such importance for me to know; for since I have ever thought you my friend, in lieu of desiring a Command to speak, you should speak freely without, but since you do desire it, I doe command you: Then Madam, said he, I will obey, and acquaint you with a businesse which will most sur∣prize you of any thing in the world: Oh I beseech you (said Istrina then) do not yet obey me; but tell me first, whether it will be a business which will anger me, or grieve me, or else joy me; for you know that pleasing things may surprize one, as well as displeasing. Since Madam I am full of sincerity, replyed he, I must confesse I have no∣thing to tell which I think will please you, but much which will displease.

If it be so, said she, I pray tell me nothing, unlesse you can tell me a way how to a∣void any great misfortune. If that had not been the cause Madam, replyed Ater∣gatis, I should never have resolved to acquaint you with what I now intend, but in∣deed Madam, it does so neer concern you to know it, as it doth concern the whole tranquility of your life: Speak then Atergatis said she unto him, and speak quickly for I long to know your businesse. I will obey you Madam, replyed Atergatis; but it must be upon Condition, that my first words shall not move you to impose silence upon me, but that you will suffer me to speak out without any interruption, all that concerns you to know. Since you cannot tell me any thing which will vexe mee more then this incertainty unto which you have put me (replyed she) I will heare you as long as you please: For since I have a good opinion of your wisdome, I need not fear you will tell me any thing which I ought not to heare.

I shall tell you then Madam, said he unto her, that though all Asia knows how the Queen intends you should weare the same Crown she doth, by marrying you unto the Prince her sonne, and by consequence all the Subjects of this great Queen, ought to look upon you as her who must be their Soveraign: Yet there is one who not be∣ing contented with the quality of a Subject which is common to many others, hath a

devotion to be your slave in a most particular manner. Though I did promise not to interrupt you (sayd Istrina, and blushed) yet it was because I thought you had some business of importance to tell me: but Atergatis I do perceive it to be only a piece of Raillary to divert me, and by Consequence does not merit the performance of my word: I beseech you Madam remember, replyed Atergatis, that I desired you not to impose silence upon me, nor wonder at my first words. But the more to oblige your audience, I will submit unto all imaginable punishments, if you doe not confesse at the end of my discourse that you ought to know what I shall tell you, and that I were unworthy to live if I did not acquaint you with it.

The Princess Istrina then perceiving that Atergatis had indeed some serious matter to tell her, resolved to hear him without interruption, not imagining that Atergatis and this slave whereof he spake were both one: so giving him a new permission to speak, he began with as much feare as love.

Be pleased to know Madam (said he unto her) that there is a man in Babylon who began to admire you as soon as ever he began to see you: and who without any hopes of being loved, or thoughts of letting you know his Love, doth still continue loving you; but it is with an affection so pure and so free from all manner of interest, that I am certain untill yesterday about this time, he never intended you should know his Passion, and yet he loves you in a higher degree then ever any could: and had he thought he could pretend unto the enjoyment of you without hindering you of a Crown, he had long since declared himselfe, and avenged you of the Prince of Assyri∣a's injustice. had he thought that the glory of being a Queen had not been the object of your desires, doubtless he would have let you known that you do Reign as Sove∣raignly in his heart, as ever you can do upon the Throne of Assyria: Hee would have made it known unto you Madam, though he had directly opposed the Queen, and though the Prince her sonne had loved you as much as he ought to do. So that Ma∣dam, the reason why this concealed Lover hath not discovered his Passion unto you, is because he was as full of respect, as Love: because he thought it not his duty to make you loose a Crown, and because he could never hope you could prefer the Empire of his heart, above a Kingdome.

In the mean time, since the passion of his amorous heart is most violent, hee hath suffered and suffered more then ever any did: he hath smothered up all his miseries in silence, and without complaint, and would still have done so, if the Prince of Assyria had not yesterday told him a thing which is the cause I now discover his thoughts unto you. For truly Madam (if I may without offence utter it) that most unjust Prince can∣not endure you, and will never give you that Crown which he is to wear, though you deserve it better then he. He is not contented with not adoring you himself, and with entertaining the most unjust thoughts in the world of you, but he would also corrupt this Lover which doth adore you: Yet Madam, since it is requisite I acquaint you with the Prince of Assyria's injustice, I must tell you, how he sent for him of whom I speak, and told him that he perceived his Love to you, and protested unto him that he for his part could never love you, & offered him to steale you away for him, and all this with such earnest expressions, as it was rather a Commandement that he made, then a Proposition. How (said the Princess Istrina, and interrupted him) would the Prince of Assyria steale me away, and put me in the power of him you mention? If this be so, though he were King of the whole world, I would disobey the Queen if she commanded me to marry him: and if it were not for the Reverence I owe unto that Princess, I should this very day let him know who thus slights me, that I doe not deserve it from him, and that I have a heart as great, as his is insolent and proud: Can I believe Atergatis, that this is true? so true Madam, replyed he, that nothing can be more: Then said she, am I the most miserable woman in the world; for unless the injurious Prince of Assyria have not Imparted this unjust Proposition unto a most generous man, perhaps he will accept of it: I cannot tell Madam (replyed Atergatis very modestly) whether the man do merit the attribute of generous; but I am sure, that though he loves you beyond all expressions, he refused to enjoy you by any such unjust way, as the Assyrian Prince propounded: His respects of you were so high, as he would not acknowledg unto him that he loved you; but told him that though he were, yet you should never be stollen away, which put that violent Prince into such a chafe, as he told him in the conclusion of their Conference, that he must do one of

these three things: Either let him steale you away; or procure your Love, or else be hated of him. This last thing (replyed Istrina very sharply) is questionless the most easie of the three, and also the most just: Yet (added she, and blushed, because she knew by the disorder which appeared in the face of Atergatis, that it was himself who loved her) the generous proceding of him who refused the Prince of Assyria's unjust proposition, doth so sensibly oblige me, that I must conjure you not to name him to me, lest being obliged to look upon him as a man who loves me, I should be driven to shun his company: therefore Atergatis since he cannot choose but be a most excel∣lent man, let me have the liberty of treating him with the same Cruelties I use unto such men, and never let me know his name: Oh Madam, sayd Atergatis, was ever such a kind of acknowledgment invented? Could ever any but your selfe have found it out? For since the proceeding of him whom you would not know doth both please and oblige you, why will you not know who he is? The reason is, replyed she, be∣cause I cannot know him, unlesse I resolve at the same time to hold no particular friendship with him: so that to take from me a subject of ingratitude, I must not ad∣mit of his acquaintance. Then promise me Madam I beseech you (said Atergatis, and looked most passionately upon her) that you will guesse at him whom you will not permit me to name: For if you will not promise this, I think Madam, I shall not tell you what remains, though it concerns you most of all to know it; for I am fully per∣swaded, that the Prince of Assyria is at this very hour proposing unto another whom I know, to steale you away; who perhaps not being so respective and jnst as him you would not know, will accept of the offer, and prepare for the execution of his un∣just design: Oh Atergatis, replyed Istrina, I will promise what you please, provided you will prevent my being taken away, by naming him unto me, whom you think so apt to undertake such violence against me: How Madam (sayd Atergatis, retreating a Pace or two, and looking fixedly upon her) would you know the name of him that would injure you, and not know his name who gives the greatest testimony of his re∣spect and love that ever any could? Yet since you will have it so (said he and came a little neerer her) and since I am in some hopes that you will guess who it is, I will tell you that Armatrites is the man whom the Prince of Assyria sent for, after he was denied by that respective Lover whom you will not let me name. Alas Atergatis, replyed Istrina, hath Armatrites accepted of this offer? he is no lesse violent and rash then the Prince of Assyria, and therefore I cannot imagine any security for my selfe, but by quitting the Court, and acquainting the Queen with it; and consequently by dividing all Assyrin, and causing perhaps a Warre between the Queen and the Prince her sonne.

No no Madam, said Atergatis to her, there needs no recourse unto such violent Remedies; for I know that he who refused the Prince of Assyria's unjust Proposition, intends to have a very observant eye over Armatrites: And I dare assure you, that considering his way of acting, you need not fear it: And therefore you need on∣ly to keep close for some certain dayes in the Queens Palace, to prevent all feares; for let me once more assure you, that the Person whom you will not permit me to name, had rather dye then suffer any violence to be done unto you: his Love of you will inspire him with policy enough to prevent his Rivall. Therefore Madam, I be∣seech you do not let it perplex you too much; for I should think my selfe most unhap∣py, if my intentions of preventing one misery, should drive you into another. I know that the losse of a Crown is great, and will most sensibly perplex one whose affection is all upon glory: and I know also that the Messenger of such bad news cannot be welcom. Yet truly Atergatis (said Istrina, and interrupted him) I think my selfe much obliged to you, though you have acquainted me with nothing but sad things: Then Madam it seems (replyed Atergatis & sighed) that you rank amongst sad things, that violent and respective Passion, which this unknown Lover bears you, who hath refu∣sed to enjoy you by that unjust way which hath been propounded to him, that the enjoyment of you Madam, is the only thing in the world that can make him happy, and without which, he will be ever miserable: It seems, replyed Istrina, that I have cause to grieve at an obligation of such a nature upon me, which I cannot acknow∣ledg, yet I must needs be so just unto him in my heart, as to wish him happy in recom∣pence of his generosity. But Madam, replyed Atergatis, you do unawares engage your selfe unto many things, he cannot without you, be what you desire he should be.

The Princess Istrina having more and more cause to think that it was Atergaris who was in love with her, and who denyed the Prince of Assyria, did rise up, least he should tell her more then she desired to hear, and least he should take the boldness to disco∣ver himself: Since I perceive this generous person whom I will not know is one of your Friends, I conjure you to oblige him to a Continuance of his Generosity in ac∣quainting me by you with all his discoueries of any unjust designs in the Prince of Assyria, or in Armatrites. Doubtless, Madam, replyed Atergatis, you shall by me know all that he who adores you with most reverence, and loves with all violencies of passion can inform you of: After this the Princess Istrina beginning to walk, called the rest of the Ladies which waited, and took one turn in the Garden, to the end it should not be observed that the Prince Atergatis had told her any thing which altered her design of walking: but her Soul was so troubled that she could not take a second; so that retiring to her Chamber, she feigned her self sick, purposely to have the better pretence for her not going abroad. Atergatis at his parting from her used many expressions which confirmed her in her opinion; yet he sayd nothing which mooved Istrina from her manner of familiarity with him, so that he parting upon very good terms from her, he went away with much satisfaction: For though this Princess told him she would not know the Name of him they spoke of, yet it did not trouble him: But on the contrary being of a quick apprehension, he easily per∣ceived that the Princess Istrina's reason why she did forbid him to tell the Name of the man, was, because she knew him: So that flattering up his passion, he thought himself more happy then ever he hoped to be; but his greatest perplexity was his fears that Armatrites should not accept of what he had refused, and that the Prince of Assyria would not take away Istrina from him.

And indeed though it was not known in Babylon, but on the contrary reported that he had received the Proposition as well as Atergatis; yet it was most certainly true, that he did accept of it with joy, and had executed his design, had not his Il∣lustrious Rivall been an Obstacle unto him, as I shall presently tell you how. On the other side Istrina's Soul was so dejected that she was all sadness: She perceived by what Atergatis had told her, that she should never be a Queen, and that her hopes of it were all quasht, yet certainly that was not it which most did trouble her; for she did more bitterly resent the Prince of Assyrias scorn then the loss of a Crown; not that she ever had any inclination to him, but because she conceived herself more meritorious then to be so slighted, therfore she could not chuse but extreamly hate him, especially since she observed his clashing with the Prince Intaphernes. In the mean time she could not find out any remedy to her misery; she knew the Queen would not permit her to leave the Court, because she had an opinion that the Prince her Son would in the end change his mind. Again, if she should acquaint Intapher∣nes with what Atergatis had told her, she feared that he being already incensed against the Prince of Assyria, he might perhaps take some violent course; since that he would be out of hopes to see the Crown upon her head, which was the only cause why he stayed at Court after so many affronts put upon him by the Prince of Assyria: Istri∣na then not knowing what course to take, thought best to pause some certain dayes, before she fixed her Resolution; And to the end she might be that Interim in safety, she dissembled herself sick, as I sayd before, that she might the better colour her keeping within the Palace. But after a serious examination of all that related un∣to the Prince of Assyria, the generosity of Atergatis came into her memory; and though she then held him in the rank of esteem and friendship, yet she found no dis∣position in her self to desire he should not love her: for as she hath since opened her most secret thoughts unto the Prince her Brother; I knew them, as well as if I had been in her heart: Nor did she desire he should love her, but without any further reasoning upon his passion; she only considered the generosity of his Action, without looking any neere into the matter, or forseeing the Sequell.

In the mean time Atergatis employing all his Wits and Policy to discover what he desired to know, did nnderstand that the Prince of Assyria had held a long Con∣ference with Armatrites, that after it they both of them were very merry; and that on the Contrary he observed the Prince of Assyria would scarcely look upon him, insomuch as descanting upon these probably Conjectures, he concluded that Armatrites had accepted of the Proposition which he refused: Also he met with se∣verall

Orders which both these Princes had given, that confirmed him in his Opinion; for the Prince of Assyria had sent secretly to the Governour of Opis (whether he car∣ried you, Madam, when he carried you away) And Armatrites had sent most of his Train out of Babylon upon a very unlikely pretence: After when he had plotted how he might defeat the design of his Rivall, he conceived the best way was to fight with him, and to make his Quarrell upon somthing in which the Princess Istrina was not concerned; for since the Prince of Assyria was a Party in the Crime of Armatrites, he thought it no policy to publish it. Atergatis did see very well that since he had no certainty of what he feared, exact Prudence required that he should stay a while and endeavour to make the business cleerer; But being extreamly in love he appre∣hended more danger in staying too long before he fought with Armatrites, then in fighting with him too soon; for indeed (said he to himself) Armatrites is my Ri∣vall, that s certain; therfore though I look upon him only as so, and not as a Ravisher of the Princess whom I adore, yet still I must be his Enemy, since there is not such a naturall antipathy in the whole Universe as between two Rivals. Then Atergatis feared that if he overcame, he should then be forced away from Istrina: yet since he knew Nitocris did not love Armatrites, he hoped he should not be banished the Court for it; or at least if he were, it would not be long: Also considering the car∣rying away of the Princess Istrina, he thought it better he should be banished from her, then expose her unto any such misery; So that to defeat the unjust design of Armatrites, he resolved to ruine him. But to the end the Princess Istrina should not suspect the truth of what he told her, he cunningly got the Prince Intaphernes, to tell her in his presence, as a peece of novelty, how Armatectes was the new Favourite of the Assyrian Prince, and how Atergatis was out of Favour: So that the Princess ap∣plying what he sayd unto herself, according to the wish of Atergatis, she blushed so extreamly, that though she was upon her bed where it was not very light, yet Ater∣gatis perceived it, and saw that he was understood. In the mean time, without fur∣ther delay, he endeavoured to meet with Armatrites the next morning, and seemed as if he had no design in it; And since it was that season of the year when walking up∣on the Banks of the River Euphrates was much frequented, he thought to find him there: And since he was of a very violent and hasty temper, it would be an easie matter to find a cause of some Quarrell, especially since he had such a Spirit of Con∣tradiction. For truly, Madam, Armatrites was of such a cross disposition, that if two persons were in contrary opinions to one another, he would rather be of a third to contradict them both, then side with either.

Atergatis knowing this humour, did conceive it would be very advantageous to himself to interest the Queen in the Cause of his quarrell, to the end he might be pro∣tected against the Prince her Son, if any need were, that he might not be banished if he were the Vanquishor, and by consequence not be separated from Istrina. Con∣sulting then with himself how he might effect his Design, he resolved when he came to the Banks of Euphrates, where he found Armatrites to extoll those great and wonderfull works which that Illustrious Queen had made, to prevent the violence of the River, by turning it severall waies before it came to Babylon, imaging that Ar∣matrites would be sure to contradict him: And indeed Atergatis was not mistaken, for as soon as they met, and as he began to commend that wonderfvll work, Arma∣trites checked him, and sayd, that the Queen was rather to be blamed, and that she had done much better if she had employed those vast Expences in turning the course of the River, in fortifying the Frontiers of her Dominions: After which he began to condemn in generall all those Princes which busie themselves in publick works, and sayd, that this which Nitocris had done, was not done for the security of the Town, and to make it more impregnable, but only out of the vanity of that Queen. Ater∣gatis not to let slip such a favourable occasion, told him in an angry tone that he spoke to unreverently of a great and illustrious Princess, who could not be suffici∣ently admired: Upon this Armatrites returned a tart answer, and Atergatis the like, still engaging the Queen in his discourse; insomuch as he forced him to bid Aterga∣tis meet him with a Sword in his Land; Atergatis did joyfully take him at his word, and told him, their best course was to take a turn in the Walks, and to draw out in∣sensibly from the Company, least their Design should be perceived; for at the be∣ginning of their Contest, severall persons did hear them. Armatrites being very brave,

he did as Atergatis advised him, and they seemed to be good friends, so that there was no suspicion of a quarrell.

In the meane time, since they were both lovers of Istrina, and knew it, they both longed to see each other with Swords in their hands: so that when they observed there was no notice taken of them, in lieu of returning amongst the people w^ch walk∣ed, they continued on their walk along the river side, as if they were men that affected a solitary walk. Since it is the custome of that place, for the Pages to waite upon their Masters at the Gate of the Towne, to the end they should not interrupt the walks of the Ladies, by their uselesse scurrility, the Pages of these two Princes were with the rest, and by consequence could not see their Masters, when they separated themselves from the company. However, since these two Rivals had either of them a sword, they were both of them well enough prepared for a Fight: So that as soon as they came to a place where the River turned, & kept them from the sight of those that walked, because the ground in that place was very low, they began that Com∣bate. I shall not trouble you Madam with any particularities of it; for I have so ma∣ny other things to relate, that I must not insist too long upon such as are least plea∣sing. Let it suffice therefore I tell you, that Atergatis was the Conquerour of Ar∣matrites, his victory was deep in blood, and fatall to his Enemy: so that being both fortunate and brave, the great courage of Armatrites could not defend himself from foure wounds, two whereof entred into his body. So that losing abundance of blood, he fainted presently, and striving to make a passe at Atergatis, he fell at his feet, yet he strived to rise againe; but his generous Rivall who was not wounded, would not suffer him, but took away his sword: and having no mind to kill an ene∣my, who was not in a condition to defend himselfe, but told him that he would spare his life upon three Conditions.

The first, to publish that their Quarrell was upon speeches of the great workes, which the Queen Nitocris had made.

The second, to confesse he had a design of carrying away the Princess Istrina: And the third, to engage his word that he would never think any more of executing his unjust design as long as he lived: I could oblige you (pursued he) never to think any more upon that Princess; but since I know that Love is a thing not voluntary, I will not require any thing of you, but what is just and Possible.

Armatrites being much wounded, & hearing Atergatis speak in that manner, was much surprized, for the Prince of Assyria had never told him that he made the same offer unto Atergatis: so as imagining that his Rivall came to know of his unjust de∣sign, either by revelation from the Gods, or by inchantment, hee never denyed the businesse, but confessed that it was true, he had a design of carrying away the Prin∣cess Istrina: hee told him that he did well not to force him unto any promise of ne∣ver thinking any more upon that Princess, maintaining with abundance of violence, that never any amorous person ought to make any promise in prejudice of his Love.

As they were upon these terms, the Prince Intaphernes who had been hunting that morning without any company but his own house, came to them: and being much surprized to find them in that condition, he lighted from his Horse and went up to them: who were as much surprized to see him, who coming suddenly upon them did heare the name of the Princess Istrina; and looking upon both Conqueror, and con∣quered, Is it possible (said he to them) that my sister should cause two such gallant men to fight? Atergatis whose spirits were incensed against Armatrites for what he said, and thinking that the Prince Intaphernes had heard more then he understood, did force his enemy to confesse before him the cause of their fight, and his design of carrying away the Princess Istrina by the Prince of Assyria's orders; but as he was ma∣king this Confession, his anger made him bleed so abundantly as he lost his speech. As guilty as he was, yet the Prince Intaphernes was so generous as to command some of his men to help him, and to carry him to the next house, because Babylon was to farr off. As these men obeyed the commands of their Master, Armatrites expired in their armes: so that changing their design, they went to acquaint his men at the gate of Babylon, whilst Intaphernes and Atergatis, 'twixt whom was a great league of friend∣ship, they left the high way, and went another blind one, that they might the better discourse together; yet they went a while without any talking, for both their minds was full: And indeed Intaphernes not being able to conceive the mystery of this strange

adventure, did study how Atergatis could come to know the Prince of Assyria's de∣sign: and why he should rather fight with Armatrites, then acquaint him with the businesse.

On the other side, not knowing how he should relate the passage, unless he should discover unto Intaphernes the affection he had unto his Sister the Princess Istrina, he was much perplexed; but at last, knowing his hatred unto the Prince of Assyria, and being acquainted with his generosity and friendship towards him, he resolved to con∣fesse the truth: And the rather, became the Princess Istrina had said nothing unto him which he was obliged to hide. So that he first breaking silence: I do not doubt Sir (said he unto him, as they stayed under a Tree which stood in their way) but you do much wonder at this adventure; but before I do particularize unto you the great injustice of the Assyrian Prince, and of Armatrites, I must open unto you the bottom of my heart, to the end you may not wonder how I became thus interested.

I must tell you then Sir, and most truly, that you have ever been the man of all I know whom I have most esteemed and loved: And the Princess your Sister hath ever been the person, whom of all her sexe I most admired, and had the strongest inclina∣tion unto: Thus, not being able to say that I esteemed you because I loved her; or that I loved her because I esteemed you, I can only say, that both of you have pos∣session of the prime places in my heart. Yet I do believe, that if I examine the busi∣nesse very well (added this Prince very sweetly) I shall find, that though I had not the honour to know her, yet still I should have been your Friend; and though I ne∣ver had the happiness to have seen you, yet I should have been her Lover: so that owing that high esteem which I have of both your vertues, only unto your own pro∣per merits; if my friendship be a thing worth the valuing, you are not beholding un∣to each other for it. Truly Sir (said the Prince Intaphernes) I do set so high a rate upon your friendship, that though I be not beholding unto the merits of my sister for it, but only unto my own, yet I should think my selfe most happy to enjoy it. And if I have any thing to charge my Sister with, it is because she never acquainted me with this noble Conquest which she hath made: Alas most generous Intaphernes (said A∣tergatis) the Princess Istrina knows not yet so much as you do, nor do I yet know whether I should wishe she did know it.

After this, Atergatis related unto Intaphernes his intentions of never discovering his Passion, unlesse the Prince of Assyria should marry some other besides the Prin∣cess Istrina, and afterwards telling him how that unjust Prince sent for him what the Proposition was which he made unto him, how he refused it: His design of acquain∣ting the Princess Istrina with it: and to be short, related the whole passage with so much sweet ingenuity, that indeed Intaphernes thought himselfe much obliged un∣to him: so that embracing Atergatis, I do find such freenesse, such generosity, and so much heroique ingenuity in your proceedings Sir (sayd he unto him) that I doe think it much more glorious for my Sister to Reign in your heart then over all Assy∣ria, since she cannot do that unlesse she become wife unto the most unjust Prince up∣on earth; and if she will be rul'd by me you shall be happy Sir, if so it be that she can make up your felicity. Atergatis hearing Intaphernes speak thus, he expressed him∣selfe with so many tender protestations of friendship and thanks, as Intaphernes did plainly see the superlative affection which he bore unto the Princess Istrina.

Afterwards, they began to consult upon the best course which was to be taken, considering the state of things; for said the Prince Intaphernes, it is to be conceived that the Prince of Assyria will secretly interest himself in the death of Armatri∣tes: And it is to be feared, that having such a favourable occasion for it, he will re∣venge himselfe upon you for denying him.

But after a serious examination of the whole businesse, they resolved that Aterga∣tis should not goe into Babylon till it was night: That he should lodg with Intapher∣nes, where the Prince of Assyria durst not offer any violence because of the Queen: That it should be blazed abroad how the Combate between Atergatis and Arma∣trites did grow, because the first of these maintained the glory of Nitocris against the other: And that they should not at all speak of the intended stealing away of the Princesse Istrina, least it should too much incense the Prince of Assyria; that in the interim, the Prince Intaphernes should goe into the Court to prepare the Queen, and to divulge in what Condition he found Atergatis and Armatrites, and how he heard

it from the mouth of the vanquished what was the cause of the Combate, divulg∣ing also the generosity of the Conqueror, and publishing that Armatrites was the first challenger to fight. And after all this, said Intaphernes I must go into my Sisters chamber: But generous Prince (sayd Atergatis to him) what will you say of that man whom she will not know? I will tell her, replyed he, that she ought to preferre him before all the rest of the world; and that being so much obliged to him as she is, she deserved the Prince of Assyria's scorn, if she were not as gratefull as Atergatis is generous.

After this, seeing it was late, and would be dark before they came to the gates of Babylon, they began to walke, and came so happily, that they could not be known by any who could acquaint the Prince of Assyria, that Atergatis was gone unto the Lodgings of Intaphernes. However, as soon as that Prince had carryed him to his Chamber, he left him, Atergatis desiring him to have a greater care of what he said unto the Princess Istrina, then of what hee should say unto the Queen: but as he was ready to goe out, a Page from that Princesse entred, who having heard some confused reports of a Combate with Armatrites, did send to see whether her Bro∣ther was returned from hunting, and whether he knew with whom it was that Ar∣matrites fought? Tell her, said Intaphernes, that I will see her presently, and that I send her word it was he whose name she would not know, that fought with Arma∣trites, and is his Conqueror. The Page remembring word for word what the Prince Intaphernes told him, went back to the Princesse Istrina, and made an exact relation of the Prince her Brothers message, and shee was extreamly surprized when she heard it. The cause of her wonder was not only to know that it was Atergatis who fought with Armatrites and overcame him, and to know of a certain that it was A∣tergatis who was in love with her: but her greatest wonder was, to understand that the Prince Intaphernes should be acquainted with the conference she had held with Atergatis; not being able to imagine, that he who would never tell her openly that he loved her, should acquaint the Prince her Brother with his passion.

But whilst she was descanting thus upon the novelty of this adventure, Intapher∣nes went to the Queen, unto whom he related the combate of Atergatis, moving her to set a value upon his zeale who had defended her glory against him that oppo∣sed it, and was vanquished, assuring her of a truth that Armatrites confessed it be∣fore he died. Also, since at the beginning of this contest between these two Princes there was severall witnesse of it, the noise of it was spread throughout all the Court, and had come unto the Queens eare: so that whatsoever the Prince Intaphernes sayd unto her, being but a confirmation of what she heard before, it was an easie matter for that Prince to dispose her unto a Protection of Atergatis: And indeed, though she had no inclination to authorize such Actions, yet she sent to tell that generous Lover how she wished he had nor been so zealous in defence of her glory. However, though she was very sorry for the disastrous accident, yet she thought her selfe obli∣ged unto him, for interesting himselfe so far as to hazard his life for her: Adding, that she would protect him as far as justice and fittingnesse would permit her: But though Nitocris had this good opinion of Atergatis, yet the Prince of Assyria was quite contrary, and undertook to protect the kindred of the dead person in so high a manner, as made it apparent, he lamented the losse of Istrina's intended ravisher: And being a man of an infinite spirit, and penetrating wit, his fears were that Ater∣gatis would make his vanquished Enemy confesse his intentions, and knowing it, would acquaint the Queen.

However Intaphernes meeting him as he came out from the Queen, and as he was going unto Istrina, this violent Prince knowing that Intaphernes had already spo∣ken very advantageously in behalf of Atergatis, he stayed; I know (said he unto him in an angry tone) that you are the great abettor of the Prince Atergatis: but let me tell you that I am resolved to revenge the death of Armatrites: Since Atergatis Sir (replyed Intaphernes mildly) had not fought with Armatrites, but in behalf of the Queen I had thought Sir, you would have been his protector: and I am confident you will, as soon as you have spoken with that great and glorious Queen: therefore I beseech you Sir, give me leave to rest in my owne opinion, which ere long will be 〈…〉〈…〉urs: No ••o (answered the Prince of Assyria very sharply) never imagine I shall a••ter my opinion: whom I love now, I shall love as long as I live; and whom I hate

now, I shall for ever hate; therefore never hope that the Queen can make me change my mind, either in what relates unto Atergatis, or any else: And therefore by con∣sequence it is your part to conform your mind & opinion unto mine. I will ever con∣form my selfe Sir unto the dictates of Reason (replyed Intaphernes) and will never faile in my duty to you or to the Queen: But Sir, I cannot cease, being the friend of Atergatis, since honour will not allow it: Then be his friend (answered the Prince of Assyria very hotly) but withall, be sure to find me your enemy. Then this violent Prince did leave Intaphernes, who had much a do to keep within compasse of his res∣pects: but striving with himselfe not to give any such tart replies as he desired, he ex∣pressed himselfe in as sweet Language as his generosity was capable of, and after∣wards went unto the Princess Istrina, who expected him with much impatience, which was accompanied with a kind of feare and shame.

As soon as he came into her Chamber, he desired her to goe into her Closet, where he would try whether all Atergatis had told him was true; and whether she knew any more then he had discovered to him: so that beginning to speak, and looking atten∣tively upon her; Methinks sister, sayd he unto her, that considering how I have ever lived with you, and since you have known the very secrets of my heart, and have not been ignorant of my inveterate hatred of the Assyrian Prince, you should have ac∣quainted me how you reign in the heart of Atergatis. Atergatis (replyed the Prin∣cess Istrina; and blusht) hath kept his passion so close, that though it be so he does love me, yet I knew it not, and therefore could not acquaint you with it: 'Tis true, I had of late a kind of guess at it, but I might perhaps be mistaken in my Conjectures. No, no, replyed Intaphernes, you are not mistaken sister, if you thought that Atergatis a∣dored you, and he hath given such ample testimonie of his love, as you need not doubt it: But Sir, I beseech you (replyed the Princess) tell me how you came to know so much? and whether Atergatis acquainted you with what he said unto me in the gar∣dens of Semiramis? when you have related your conference sister with Atergatis (an∣swered Intaphernes, I shall then relate unto you mine with him.

Istrina hearing her brother say so, began to tell him very ingenuously, all that A∣tergatis said unto her: so that Intaphernes finding her words concur with what his friend had told him: he acquainted Istrina with all he knew concerning his Combate and his Love: and did so highly applaud the generosity of Atergatis, and hate the in∣justice of the Assyrian Prince, as he did what he could to make her love the first, and hate the second. And certainly there was no great difficulty in effecting his design; for the Princess Istrina thought her selfe so obliged unto Atergatis, for hazarding his life to prevent Armatrites from carrying her away, and was so mortally offended at the Prince of Assyria, that there could not be greater dispositions both to love and to hate, then was in her heart. So that not resisting the desires of Intaphernes, which were, that she should content her selfe with the Dominion of Atergatis his heart, and reject the Assyrian Throne, they consulted together how they should negotiate with Nitocris: but since they could not acquaint her with this last piece of injustice in the Prince her sonne without extreamly grieving her, and without exposing Atergatis to the fury of that robustuous Prince, if he should come to know it, they could not re∣solve upon that course, so that Intaphernes disposed himselfe to return unto Aterga∣tis: As he was ready to leave the Princess Istrina, shee kept him a little longer; But brother (said she unto him, and blusht) doe you intend to acquaint Atergatis that you have told me how he loves me? I must acquaint him Sister (answered hee) if I would be welcome to him: However, replyed she, I beseech you do not tell him that you have perswaded me unto any thing: I cannot tell (said he, and smiled) whether I should or no; for it would not be very advantageous for mee to let him know that you would not give any credite unto my words: To save your honour, replyed she, you may tell him that I did not doubt of your words, but because I suspected his; for truly brother, if you put me to the necessity of receiving Atergatis as a Lover, and as a declared Lover too, you will expose me to the greatest perplexity in the world: I pray Sister, said he unto her, what would you have mee tell him? would you have me so damp all his hopes, that he shall never dare to tell you that he loves you? or would you only oblige me not to deprive you of the delight in hearing it from his owne mouth, which you cannot so pleasingly receive from mine? You know so well bro∣ther what I would have you say (replyed she) that I need not tell you what words

you what words you should use: all I require of you is, that you would not engage me into any Conference of open Gallantry, unless you would have me use that man over well unto whom I am extreamly obliged. After this, Intaphernes went out of I∣strinas Chambers, and returned to Atergatis, unto whom he related all the passages between the Queen and him; also what the Prince of Assyria sayd unto him, and what the Princess Istrina answered him; to the end he might prepare himself (when things were brought to such a pass as he might see her) to fit his talk unto her de∣sires. In the mean time, the Prince of Assyria used all his arguments to perswade the Qeen that the Combate of Atergatis ought rather to incense then oblige her: but he could not do it; On the contrary, the Queen took this occasion to tell him, that he affected alwayes to hate whatsoever she loved, and whosoever loved her: and spoke so sharply, as he went out very ill satisfyed; And he was that day in such a huffing Chafe, and gave such harsh language unto Intaphernes, as that Prince as wise and re∣spective as he was, did reply so sharply as the Prince of Assyria commanded him to keep out of his sight.

In the mean time, the Queen to calme this Storm, sent Atergatis word that consi∣dering the violence of the Prince her Son, she should be glad if he would depart the Court for a while, untill she had appeased the Kindred of Armatrites, and till she had sweetned the spirit of the Assyrian Prince. So that Atergatis out of his respects and obedience unto the Queen, prepared for a departure out of Babylon: But since he could not go, before ht took his leave of the Princess Istrina, he intreated the Prince Intaphernes to obtain that permission for him; No, no, answered that Prince, you must not do so: and it seems that you do not perfectly know the person whom you love, since you do not think it requisite to deceave her, and that way ob∣lige her unto such a business as this; but that you may receive your desired satisfa∣ction, I will put an innocent Fallacy upon her: Atergatis then thanked Intaphernes, and told him that his fear was, that he should esteem him more then he loved his Si∣ster; However, sayd he, I am sure, you have obliged me more then ever she did. In the mean time, Intaphernes to keep his word with Atergatis, did perswade the Prin∣cess his sister the next morning, to go walk in a Garden which is upon the Banks of the River Euphrates, telling her, that now she need not fear to go out of the Pal∣lace, since the Prince of Assyria had no more men with whom he could chaffer to car∣ry her away: Yet Istrina did a long time deny him, but Intaphernes was so very ear∣nest, as she did suspect some hidden Design in it; but her curiosity having got the mastery of her mind, she resolved to suffer herself to be deluded: And indeed the next day Intaphernes carryed the Princess his Sister unto the Garden which he propounded, where Atergatis by break of day had got before them, and stayed there untill Evening: For since the Owner of that place was an intimate friend nnto In∣taphernes, he was very safe there; so that the man carrying Atergatis in a great and magnificent Closet, he watched there very conveniently for the Princess Istrina. In the mean time, she was no sooner come into the Garden, but Intaphernes motioned to go and see the house; But sayd she unto him, You propounded to bring me out to walk, and now you have no will unto it: If it were best to be in a house, certainly it were best to be in the Queens Palace, which I beleive is much better then that you would have me go into; yet Sister (replyed Intaphernes) you shall see somthing in the house which you could not in the Queens. After he had sayd so, he carried I∣strina into a great Hall, from thence into a Chamber which looked into a great plea∣sant Meadow; so that finding this Prospective very delectable, she looked ovt of a Window which stood open, and pleased herself with the sight of it: Whilst she stood there without any other Company but two of her women, the Prince Intapher∣nes opened the door of a Closset to let in Atergatis; so that when the Princess Istri∣na turned about she was extreamly surprised at the sight of him, though she knew the Prince her Brother did not bring him thither without design: I cannot tell, Madam, (sayd Atergatis most respectively unto her) whether you will pardon the Prince In∣taphernes, for the fallacy which he hath put upon you in my behalf; but I am sure, I had no power to yeeld obedience unto the Queens Commands, that I should de∣part from Babylon, before I had the honour to bid you adieu. It need not be doubt∣ed, replyed she but that I shall much complain of him; for indeed I cannot endure that any should deceive me, no, though it be to my advantage: However I shall

very willingly pardon him this trick he hath put upon me, because he hath given me occasion of thanking you for hindring Armatrites from making me the most misera∣ble woman in the world. It is most true (sayd the Prince Intaphernes, and interrupted her) and you are so much beholding unto Atergatis, that if you were the Queen of Assyria, I conceive you could not pay him the debt you owe him, unless you gave him the Crown: O, Sir, sayd Atergatis, you make me so ashamed at your language, as I dare hardly look upon the Princess. Since those, Sir, who are obliged, replyed I∣strina, have more reason to blush for shame, that those who do oblige, I must con∣fess it my part to be ashamed, for being obliged so much beyond my Gratitude. Per∣sons of your Merits, Madam, replyed Atergatis, do alwayes sufficiently recompence all Services that can be done them by their well acceptance of them: Therfore, Ma∣dam, if what I have done for you do not displease you, I am well payed for the Ser∣vice, and for all I can do as long as I live. As the Princess Istrina was ready to reply, the Master of the house came and whispered Intaphernes in the Eare, and told him, that there was one of the Queens Officers asked for him, and seemed as if he had some earnest business with him; so that Intaphernes being gone out of the Chamber into the Hall to speak with this Officer, Atergatis had the more liberty to express his thoughts unto the Princess Istrina, though he had none which he desired to conceal from Intaphernes, nor which he did not tell him: But since it is the quality of Love to love Secresie, and since the words of a Lover when he speaks of his passion would not be heard by any but the person whom he loves, therfore Atergatis was very glad of this opportunity; so that not to let it slip (that he did not intend to speak openly of his passion.) I render thanks unto the Gods (sayd he unto the Princess Istrina) that they have not driven me unto the necessity of acquainting you the first time with a business which I could not long conceal from you: and for that the man whose name you would not know, is not unknown unto you, though he hath been disobe∣dient unto your Commands of never letting you know it. Truly, I must needs con∣fess (replyed Istrina and blushed) that you have not disobeyed me, and that in rea∣son I have no just cause to complain; yet I cannot chuse but accuse you, though I am not able to give a name unto the Crime wherof I do accuse you: for indeed being so much obliged unto you, as I am, and esteeming you so much as I do, I dare not tell you, that you have not spoken sincerely unto the Prince my Brother, but I am confi∣dent you did not well know your own thoughts, that you were mistaken, and took one word for another, in speaking of the Princess Istrina unto Intaphernes, and that you gave the small esteem and amity you bore her, some names which did not sute well with them. Do you think, Madam (replyed Atergatis) that one can keep a Medium in their esteem and love of you? Since there is a Prince, replyed she, who finds in his heart to scorn me, and has a great aversion to me, me-thinks it a peece of vanity to imagine that you should so much as esteem me: Oh, Madam, replyed A∣tergatis, the man you mean deserves not to be ranked amongst men, much less a∣mongst Princes. However, Madam, since a miserable man, who is ready to depart from you, stands in need of some Consolation to keep him alive; I will beleive, Ma∣dam, that you spake as you did, purposely to give me the happy occasion of telling you myself how infinitely I adore you. No, Atergatis, replyed she, that was not my Design: But on the contrary, I did beleive, that by speaking as I did, I should oblige you to take time in the expressions of your affection, since it must be time only that can well do it: I know very well you have done very much for me already, but since generosity only might prompt you unto it, I beseech you give me the free∣dom of doubting what you say, since there cannot hap a greater mischance unto you then not to be thought very generous. Alas, Madam, sayd Atergatis, I beseech you do not attribute that unto my generosity which belongs unto my love; take away from me that Vertue, if you please, but do not take from me a passion which is neerest my heart; and since you, Madam, your self did create it in me, do not destroy your own Creature, nor dispute it with me. I do not ask, Madam, that you should retaliate heart for heart, and sigh for sigh; All I desire is, you would be pleased on∣ly to accept of my heart and hearken unto sighs: for truly, Madam, since the good∣ness of the Prince Intaphernes is pleased to interest himself in my miseries; I may be∣leive, he will permit me to Conquer you in the name of that amity you bear unto him, to accept of my affection without any hatred unto me. If I were not to depart

from you so soon, I should waite untill my eyes, my sighes, my teares and my servi∣ces had given you a thousand testimonies of my passion, before I had made any use of my words to perswade you. But since I am ready to depart, methinks Madam, that a man who hath so long loved you in silence, may have the liberty of expressing his love without incurring your anger, especially having such a Preface as the Prince Inta∣phernes.

You do make use Sir of such a powerfull name replyed Istrina, that I am much puz∣led to find answer for you; yet I shall tell you, that since I am a little harder to be perswaded then the Prince my Brother is, I do not engage my selfe to believe all that he doth: And therefore be not offended Sir, if I suspect your words; and to speak with reason, it is to be thought that a Love which begins in absence will not last long. Oh Madam (replyed Atergatis, and interrupted her) you do me the greatest wrong in the world to say that my Love begun in absence, since if you did but know when it did begin, you would find me to be the very first of your Adorers. I do not ask any recompence Madam, for all those secret torments which I have already endured for you, so you will but be pleased to set a value upon those which I shall suffer for the future.

I know very well, that since the eyes of all the Court looked upon you Madam, as she that was to be Queen of Assyria, to offer lesse then the heart of a King, was an offering unworthy of you: And I can assure you, Madam, that my intentions were to obey you as long as I lived; and had I as many Crowns as you deserve, I should give them unto you with more joy then I could possesse them: Not that (unless am∣bition be the predominate Passion of your soule) I can never hope to be happy, since it is to be feared, that you will not love a King who is not so unjust as not to love you better then a Prince who makes it his glory to be your slave: but the Queens autho∣rity forcing the Prince her sonne to obey her, your owne inclination cannot resist her: I beseech you Madam, be not offended at any boldnesse in speaking thus unto you: If ambition were a base and criminall passion, I should suspect you; But since desire of Rule is universally in the hearts of all; and since to ascend a Throne, long and bloody Wars are usually made; and since Kingdoms and Empires are subverted, I may very wel fear that you will make no scruple of loosing me, that you may Reign; for I must confesse you may do it without any injustice to me, since I have no right in the Earth to hinder you: And I assure you Madam I am not so insolent as to offer any constraint unto your inclination: but Madam, I beseech you give me leave to tell you, that though I am fully resolved to be slave as long as my life lasts: Yet I perceive I must not live your Subject. Therefore Madam, I doe begge it as a singular favour, that if it so fall out during my absence that the Prince of Assyria does resolve to obey the Queen Nitocris you will be pleased to remember, that you cannot ascend the Throne, but it must cost the miserable Atergatis his life.

Since Sir, I am resolved to be very sincere, replyed the Princess Istrina, I must tell that I will not oblige you by the resolution which I have taken of resisting the Queen more obstinately then the Prince of Assyria respects her, since I do it only for the love of my selfe; for believe it, I think it more glory to scorn a Prince that slights me, then to be a Queen by any unworthy way; so that generous Atergatis, you may assure your selfe that you must never be my Subject, and that I shall have no other power over you, but what you do voluntarily give me.

As Atergatis was ready to answer, the Prince Intaphernes entred, but with so ma∣ny signs of discontent in his looks, as it was easie to see, he had met with some bad news since he left them: so that the Princess his sister longing to be satisfied, asked him what it was which discontented him? I understand, said he, that the Peace with Phrygia is concluded, and that the Queen prepares for a publique rejoycing: and that the Prince of Assyria's marriage must follow presently after this great Feast which is to be celebrated for this concluded Peace. The man who told me this, did heare the Queen say as much: so that thinking to do me a notable pleasure in acquainting me with it, he sought me out in severall places, and found me here. This newes did ex∣treamly surprize Istrina, and much more Atergatis; who looking the Princesse full in the eyes to discover the thoughts of her heart, did gaze upon her with extream atten∣tion: At first she blusht, and seemed a little moved; but presently recollecting her selfe, I am so sure, said she unto Intaphernes, of the Prince of Assyria's aversion unto

me, and of mine to him, that be the Court never so much joyed at at his Marriage and mine, yet I shall be in mourning.

Oh my dearest Sister said the Prince Intaphernes, your expressions doe infinitely please me; for what ambition soever be in my heart, yet I desire not to see you a Qu: by becoming Wife unto a Prince who hath wronged me, and who hath wronged me unpunished, because I was his Subject; and whom, if fortune had not put that diffe∣rence betwixt us, I would make known, that the fate of Armes might perhaps make us equalls.

Atergatis hearing what the Prince Intaphernes said, was well satisfied, and was quit of most of his feares, but not altogether; for he knew, that the Queen Nitocris was fully resolved to press the Prince her sonne unto the very utmost: nor was hee ig∣norant, that the Crown belonged unto her; that she was most absolute in her Domi∣nion; and the ancient amity which she had with Gadates, was the reason why she would have him Reign in the person of his Daughter: so that not relying upon the words of Intaphernes and the Princess Istrina, he was in a perplexed condition, and he made a hundred severall Propositions unto them both, to rid himself of his fears.

Intaphernes for his part, advised his Sister to leave the Court, and never acquaint the Queen; but she would not hearken unto that, telling them that she owed more respect unto the Queen and Gadates, then to take any such course: Also said she, it may chance so fall out, that the Prince of Assyria will sufficiently resist her, and ne∣ver put me to the necessity of incensing the Qu: Alas Madam (said Atergatis) I be∣seech you give me leave to tell you, that those who will never enter into Combat, can never vanquish: and so if you will not oppose the Queen, it is as much to say, that you will obey her: I do assure you Sir, replyed she, I will not obey her. And if ever I be your Queen, I freely give both you, and my Brother leave to be my rebellious Subjects; but in the mean time I beseech you give me leave to temper the Queens mind as I please: I must confesse Sister, said Intaphernes, that you are very much obli∣ged to the Queen, and that's the reason which makes me feare, that if ever she per∣swade the Prince her sonne, she will perswade you also. Since I do know my owne heart better then you know it, replyed she, I have more reason to trust unto my own generosity then you have: But to testifie that I would not have you suspect me to be so base, as ever to marry a Prince who hath wronged you, and scorned me, I will alter my intention, and beseech the Queen (provided you be present) not to command me ever to marry the Prince her sonne, but that she will please to give me so much liberty as to retire my selfe: After this, both Intaphernes and Atergatis do return him most hearty thanks, and applauded her generosity: But she being a little displeased, that the Prince her brother should suspect her of any weakness, did give him a handsome check for it, which did the more confirm him in his beliefe of her ge∣nerosity.

In the mean while, since it was resolved upon, that he should go unto the Queen the same night, he prepared himselfe to leave her: And since Intaphernes did most dearly love Atergatis, and thought that the more he engaged Istrina with him, the more averse she would be unto the Prince of Assyria: he conjured her to accept of his affection, and to look upon him as a man who of all the world was most worthy of her.

Atergatis for his part, was full of his tender and passionate expressions: But, say, do what they both could, she would not engage her selfe unto Atergatis further then terms of friendship and acknowledgment. But to tell you truly, I believe her heart did promise more then her mouth; and from that day, she began to put a diffe∣rence between the amity she used to her friends, & the affection she had to that Prince.

However it were, as soon as she returned to the Palace, shee perceived that what the Queen had spoken was known to all the world, and that they began already to look upon her as Queen; for she saw such obsequeousness in all that addressed them∣selves unto her, as it was easie to know their thoughts, and that their own Interests did move them so to doe.

On the other side, the Prince of Assyria knowing more precisely then Intaphernes, how the Queen intended his Marriage did take a resolution, which as you know Ma∣dam, hath been very unfortunate unto you, since if he had not left the Court of As∣syria, he had never come into the Court of Cappadocia. However, without any fur∣ther

deliberation, his design was to leave the Court, to get out of the Kingdom, and to travell unknown, untill the Queen his Mother had changed her mind, and that the Princess Istrina was marryed,

But since neither the Prince Intaphernes, nor the Princess his Sister did know of his intentions, they spoke joyntly to the Queen, and beseeched her to let them retire from the Court, and never to command them back: But the more they complained against the Prince of Assyria, the more Intaphernes was sensible of his affronts; and the more Istrina begged of the Queen never to marry, the more earnest was the Qu: to have them stay in the Court, and was more resolved to make up the match, which she had so long desired. Istrina added her Tears unto her Prayers, and Intaphernes was very importunate, but all in vaine, for neither side would yeeld, nor change their minds.

In the mean while the melancholy Atergatis hearing from Intaphernes how all things passed, would not yet stir from the place where he had a businesse of that im∣portance, but resolved to stay a while conceal'd in Babylon, until he knew a little better how squares would goe; but he stayed in such a melancholy condition, that if Inta∣phernes had not cheered him up, his melancholy had been stronger then his Reason: That which added the most misery to his melancholy, was, the King of Assyria, who as I told you, having a design to steale out of Court, would needs, to delude the Queen, appeare the next morning at the Feast for the Peace of Phrygia, in a high magnificence. He seemed lesse fierce then ordinary, and more civill to the Princesse Istrina: so that all the Court thinking he would obey the Queen, the noise of it came unto the eares of Atergatis and Intaphernes, who would not participate of t〈…〉〈…〉 di∣versions that day: And so that these two Princes were both of them equa〈…〉〈…〉d, though from different Causes. Intaphernes did write that night unto his Sister to know whether it was true that the Prince of Assyria was more pliant to her then usu∣all; but as he was sending his Letter, he received one from her, which contained these words.

ISTRINA UNTO INTAPHERNES.

Brother,

I Cannot stay untill the morning to tell you, that though the Prince of Assyria hath changed his behavior to me, yet I shall not change my mind; & if I expres∣sed any joyes to see him lesse uncivill, it was out of my hopes to make him better know the aversion which I shall ever have unto him: Adieu, do not suspect mee of any weaknesse, and thinke alwayes of my Generosity as you would have me think of your upon the like occasion.

Istrina.

INtaphernes had no sooner read this Letter, but he went to shew it unto Atergatis, who was both glad and sad at it; for he was glad to hear that the Princess Istrina was constant to her first resolution, but he was very sorry to hear that confirmed which had formerly so much grieved him; so that there being a Miscellany of these two Contraries in his soule, he knew not how to expresse his thoughts by his words.

As for the Prince Intaphernes, he knew not what to think; for he could not ima∣gine why a Prince who had behaved himselfe so harshly, should change in so short a time. Yet in his answer to the Princess Istrina, he excited her to continue generous, and assured her, that he would see her the next day: yet Madam, this Princess hath confessed since unto the Prince her Brother, that she was all the night following ex∣treamly

restless, for truly, Atergatis had exceedingly obliged her: Atergatis was very amicable, Atergatis did infinitely love her, and she had no inclination to hate him. Moreover the Prince of Assyrias contempt of her, had strangely incensed her spirits against him: and his affronts offered unto the Prince Intaphernes did extream∣ly exasperate her. But on the other side, when she considered what Glory it was to be Queen of Assyria, to succeed one of the most Illustrious Princesses in the world: To command in the greatest Town upon Earth, to see none but the Gods above her, and to have but a very few equals in the whole Universe; she found it a peece of difficulty to keep close unto her resolution.

As soon as inclined unto Ambition, Honour and Love did command her to be generous, so that she returned to her first thoughts, and resolutely defended her∣selfe.

But whilst Atergatis, Intaphernes, and Istrina were each of them descanting upon this adventure; and whilst the Queen was preparing to speak the next morning un∣to the Prince her Son, and to press obedience upon him: That Prince without any company but three of his men, departed from Babylon two hours before day.

It is not easy for me, Madam, to tell you what effects this departure did pro∣duce in the Court: It would be task enough to acquaint you with the thoughts of Istrina, Intaphernes, and Atergatis, unless I should also mention the sorrows and anger of the Queen, to see that the Prince her Son should so much fail in his respects; yet she dissembled some part of her Resentments. But as for Istrina, she did so lit∣tle hide her Joyes at the Princes departure (though in point of honour, she seemed a little angry) that all the Court perceived it; for she being then but very young she co〈…〉〈…〉ot confine all her tumultuous thoughts unto the Closet of her heart. As for Intaphernes, though he was somthing more a Master of himself, and went as others did to the Queen, yet he was very glad to observe that the departure of this Prince did not trouble her. As for Atergatis, he had such Raptures of joy as never man had; Such, Madam, as though he did never in his life write unto the Princess Istrina, yet now he writ to acquaint her with his thoughts, asking her pardon for rejoycing at her loss of a Crown, and hinted unto her so many passages of Wit, of Gallantry, and Passion, as it was apparent; the heart which guided the hand that writ this Letter was infinitely in Love. The joyes of Atergatis were the more augmented, because he hoped that now the Prince of Assyria was gone, the Queen perhaps would revoke, or at least shorten his Exile; yet he was deceived in his hopes: for be pleased to know, Madam, that since the friends of Armatrites aimed only at the ruine of Ater∣gatis, and knowing that he had seen the Princese Istrina in that Garden where Inta∣phernes carried her, and having learned also that he was still in Babylon, did advertise the Queen of it; so that the Queen having a most Penetrating Wit, and observing that the Princess Istrina was joyed at the Prince of Assyrias departure, and far from grieving at the loss of a Crown; she began to suspect somthing from this in∣terview, of which she had never told her: And her suspition was the more violent, because she remembred how zealously the Prince Intaphernes pleaded for Atergatis, after his Combate with Armatrites. So that comparing all these Circumstances to∣gether, she desired to be satisfied in the business: and indeed so she was very easily; for since Istrina stood in fear of her, and did highly reverence her, she had not power to deny this interview in the Garden; nor did she in that disorder so much as think upon any Colour for it. Also she was much surprized when Nitocris asked her, why Intaphernes desired her to see Atergatis; Madam (replyed Istrina and blusht) since Atergatis was ever a good friend both unto Intaphernes and me, he desired that I should bid him adieu, and I did not deny him: Fy, fy, Istrina (answered the Queen to make her confess) you need not make a mystery of such a business: this meeting hath some other cause more then I know; but I will know it, and that more particularly from your own mouth. The Princess Istrina seeing the Queen so very urgent, did make an indirect answer; but Nitocris still pressing her more, and not giving her time to consider upon the business, she forced her at last to tell her in a tumultuous manner, how she was obliged unto Atergatis, acquainting the Queen with the Prince of Assyrias Injustice, in offering to steal her away: and acquainting her with the ge∣nerosity of Atergatis, and how she was displeased with the first, and more esteemed the second. But all this did not succeed according to Istrinas hopes: for though the

young Princess never told the Queen that Atergatis was in love with her, or that she did attribute his action only unto the generosity of his Soul: Yet Nitocris did smell the truth, for since some flying reports went of Atergatis his passion, she had wit e∣nough to consider all these things in the true sence. But the worst was, the Queen imagining that Istrina had of a long time known of the passion of Atergatis, she thought, that perhaps this secret peece of Gallantry was the cause why the Prince her Son was so obstinate. Not but that she knew the Vertue of Istrina very well; yet looking upon Atergatis as an Obstacle unto the thing which she most of any thing in the world desired: she commanded a new that he should depart the Court, and not return till she recalled him. Intaphernes whom Istrina durst not acquaint with what she had confessed unto the Queen, did beseech her not to treat a man so rigorously who had fought in defence of her Glory: but she absolutely denyed him, and told him afterwards all she knew, & what she thought of Atergatis his Love of Istrina; So that Intaphernes whose Soul was all Sincerity and Generosity, confessed more then the Princess his Sister did: for he told her positively all the passage, and with so much in∣genuity that the Queen perceived she was mistaken in thinking that Istrina did know of Atergatis his love long before; So that being very glad a Princess whom she dear∣ly loved was justified in her Opinion: She did with more moderation admit of Inta∣phernes his aggravations of the Prince of Assyrias Injustice, in desiring to steal away his Sister both for Atergatis and Armatrites,: I do very plainly see, sayd the Queen, that the Prince my Son is very unjust; But for all that Intaphernes, as long as he is living I shall still be in some hopes of Istrinas being Queen of Assyria: And therfore I would not have Atergatis have any thoughts of her; so that though the friends of Armatrites did not press me as they do to banish him: yet banished he must be, be∣cause he loves Istrina, and because he is a man too well accomplished for her to hate him. However, assure him, that if he will change Passions, and let Ambition take the place of Love in his heart: I shall ere long fully satisfy it by conferring upon him so considerable Government, that though he shall be banished from Babylon, yet his Exile shall pass rather for a recompence then a punishment. Intaphernes then of∣ferred to oppose the Queen, but she imposed silence upon him, so that it must be as she would have it, and Atergatis, must depart, yes, and depart without a sight of the Princess whom he loved: for the Queen did cause her Commands to be so strick∣ly observed, that Intaphernes could not imagine which way he should procure that sa∣tisfaction to his friend, who had departed without any Consolation; if Intaphernes had not promised him to present his Letter unto the Princess Istrina and oblige her to answer him. I shall not, Madam, both trouble you and my self with a relation how the Prince Atergatis spent the first months of his Banishment: nor how carefull he was in writing his Letters unto Istrina, and Intaphernes, nor with what exactness Intaphernes answered him, nor with what zeal that Prince spoke of Atergatis unto Istrina: least she should forget him, and not enough hate the Prince of Assyria; for I should be too long and tedious in telling things so little pertinent or necessary: But give me leave to tell you, Madam, how one that was Cosin to Armatrites, hearing that Atergatis did often write unto Intaphernes; he did advertise the Queen of it, but he was not so cunning as to keep it from the knowledge of Intaphernes, therfore such sharp language passed between them as they fell to blows: And Intaphernes fought with so much courage, that after he had killed his Enemy, he defended him∣self most stoutly against three of his men, who seeing their Master dead, would needs be revenged: But though they were valiant, yet he killed one of them, wounded an∣other, and put the third to flight, having none but the Gods and himself; for he met him with whom he fought in a long walk upon the Banks of Euphrates, at the end of which he had left his men, and they could not be so soon in with him, as he was Conqueror: Tis true his Victory was dearly bought, for he was dangerously wounded in two places: But since the Chirurgeons did say there was no danger in his wounds, it may very well be sayd, that the glory he got in the Combate was worth more then the blood he lost.

In the mean time, the Queen perceiving how zealous Intaphernes was in all things that related unto Atergatis, she resolved to continue his Banishment, not only as long as the Prince her Son was absent, but also as long as that unjust Prince would not mar∣ry Istrina: and yet she was very favourable unto Atergatis in a hundred things of ano∣ther

nature, both to his person and other his relations. Thus this unfortunate Lover, not setting any period to his banishment, but the marriage of her he loved, with a Prince whom he hated, did lead the most miserable life of any man in the world; yet he received so much consolation as to have some Letters from Istrina; but he recei∣ved so much sorrow also as to know how that wise Princess told the Queen, that the affection of Atergatis was very indifferent unto her: yet she told him, how she be∣seeched her to send her back unto the Prince her Father, to the end that she should not hinder the return of the Prince her Son; but she durst say no more, yet she ex∣plained herself a little more clearly a few dayes after the Combate of Intaphernes: for the Prince of Assyria sent one of his men secretly into Babylon to scatter severall Tick∣ets in the Town, by which he declared that he would never return into Assyria untill the Princes Istrina was married, and beseeching the Queen not to marry her unto A∣tergatis, for some reasons which he would give her, when she had put him into a con∣dition of return: So that this Prince by this means revenged himself upon Atergatis, who would not suffer him to steal away Tstrina for him; for the Queen upon this did confirm her resolutions of keeping that Prince still in Exile.

In the mean time, the Princess Istrina, who till now could never let it be known that she did not hate Atergatis, began openly to inveigh against the Prince of Assy∣rias Injustice, who did not only affront her in his refusall of marriage, but did most tyrannically prescribe things which did not belong unto him, and such things as upon which the whole tranquillity of her life depended. But the more she complained, the more she retarded the return of Atergatis, who hearing of the passages in Babylon, was grived to the very Soul: yet there was such resentments in the heart of Istrina, as would have joyed his Soul had he known them; for certainly the Prince of Assy∣rias Tickets, and the Proceedings of the Queen did make her resolve to look upon Atergatis as the only man in the world, who did merit her affection. But, Madam, not to abuse your patience any longer, I must in a very few words slight over all the petty passages in Babylon, whilst the Prince of Assyria under the name of Philidaspes was a Lover of you, and a Hater of the Illustrious Artamenes at Synope: for it would take too much time to express how sad the Queen was, because she knew not what was become of the Prince her Son, and to express the sad heart of Atergatis at his ab∣sence from her he loved: the vexation of Istrina to see the absent Prince of Assyria an Obstacle unto her happiness: How angry Intaphernes was to have an Enemy of whom he neither could nor durst be revenged, & to what a trouble the Prince Mazares was put unto, in being an universall Mediator to appease the Queen whensoever she was incensed, either against the Prince her Son, or against Intaphernes, or against Istrina, or against Atergatis. Therfore, Madam, without more mention of what passed in Babylon, whilst the pretended Philidaspes followed the King your Father in the wars which then he had against the Kings of Pontus and Phrygia, and whilst the Voyage of the Illustrious Artamenes to Thomeris lasted; I shall represent unto you only such things as happened after the Queen knew that the Prince her Son had carried you a∣way. For truly, Madam, I owe this testimony unto the vertue of that great Princess, as I must assure you, that this News did extreamly greive her, as but for the Prince Mazares, she had disinherited the Prince her Son from the Crown: Then did she repent that ever she crossed the inclinations of Istrina, and did not only give her most tender and obliging language, but the Prince Intaphernes also who was gone a little before into Bithinia, where Arsamones was waging War to recover the Crown of his Ancestors. In the mean while, Atergatis who did interest himself unto every thing which concerned Intaphernes, did follow him to the War, desiring since he was Exi∣led, to pass his time in the Service of that Prince unto whom Istrina had relation. I am obliged, Madam, to acquaint you also, that if this great Queen had lived she had besieged Opis, whither the Prince her Son had conveyed you, assuring you that her only design in it was to restore you unto the King your Father: But, Madam, death prevented the execution of her generous Design, which would have saved many a sorrow. But since this great Princess at the end of her daies lookt pale death in his grim face, without any fear, and kept her reason clear unto her very last breath, she would not leave the Princess Istrina exposed unto the violencies of the new King: but know∣ing how much I ever devoted my self unto the Service of the Prince Intaphernes, she

did me the honour to make choise of me with the trust of the Princess Istrina, ap∣pointing me to convey her into Bythinia as soon as she was dead; and having no mind, she should goe unto the Prince her Father, since he being within the Domi∣nions of the Prince her sonne, he should offer some violence unto her: Therefore, making choise of a more safe Sanctuary, she would have me carry her unto Arsamo∣nes, with whom, as I already told you, were the Princes Intaphernes and Atergatis, who both of them had highly signalized themselves in that Warr: so that Madam, I accepting of this charge which the Queen committed unto me, and promising most faithfully to perform my Trust, this great Queen of ever honoured memory was no sooner expired, but I prepared for obedience.

The Prince Mazanes who infinitely loved Intaphernes, esteemed Atergatis, and ho∣noured Istrina, did for the more safety of this Princesse give me a Convoy, himself waiting upon her some forty furlongs out of Babylon. I cannot tell you Madam how great was the grief of the Princess Istrina for the death of Nitocris, for I have not words apt enough to expresse it: but I can tell you, that the looking upon the Prince of Assyria as the cause of her losse by reason of griefe which your carrying away cau∣sed, did curse him with as many imprecations as you your self could do. However, as time is the best salve for all sorrows, so when we came into Bythinia, her teares were a little dryed up, and her sorrows slacked.

As soon as we were upon the Frontiers of that Kingdom, and quite out of the King of Assyria's power, the Princess did stay to rest her self, & to give me time to acquaint the Prince Intaphernes and the Prince Atergatis with her Arrivall: You may well i∣magine Madam, that the bad newes of Nitocris death was not sweetned by this, es∣pecially to Atergatis, though he was to see Istrina, beyond all his hopes; for Ma∣dam, be pleased to know, that the Messenger whom I sent unto these two Princes, who were then at Calcedonia, where the Court was, did find them ready to come unto Babylon in a disguise, purposely for the safety of the Princess Istrina, not knowing how the Queens prudence provided for it.

So that being now out of all feares of the new Assyrian Kings violence, and hea∣ring that they should see her much sooner then they hoped, the sorrows of Inta∣phernes vanished, and much more the sorrows of Atergatis, since he was not so much obliged unto the Queen by reason of his Exile: However, to loose no time, in lieu of answering Istrina's Letters and mine, they went in all hast unto Arsamo∣nes, to acquaint him with Istrina's Arrivall, and to desire Sanctuary for her: since Arsamones was much obliged unto them, he was very glad of such an occasion to gratifie the services they had done him in the Wars: so that consenting very cheer∣fully unto their desires, he acquainted the Queen of Bythinia with it, the very same hour, who for the more honour of the Princess Istrina, did send her own Coach to meet her a dayes journey from Calcedonia, and also a particular Complement unto Istrina.

On the other side, Intaphernes and Atergatis having an earnest desire to see her, did make incredible hast unto the place where she was, friendship and love being sharp spurrs unto both those Princes, who did very pleasingly surprize us; for wee could not imagine it possible for them to negotiate with Arsamones, and be there so soon. It is not an easie matter for me to tell you Madam, how infinitely these three persons were joyed: Intaphernes and Atergatis let theirs appear, but as for Istrina she partly concealed hers.

Their conversation yet began in tears, but yet their Joys to see each other, dissipa∣ting all clouds of sorrow, they began to relate all the passages which hapned since they saw each other; they complained against the King of Assyria with such kind of aggravations as sometimes useth to comfort such as have freedom to complain of any Injustice done them. Yet they did not vent all their thoughts, for the passion of Ater∣gatis forged a thousand which he never uttered, yet he had so much satisfaction as to ease himselfe and his heart a little; for after they had talked a long time with Istrina, Intaphernes being desirous to confer with me, did draw me aside, and left Atergatis at liberty to vent his passion; I know not Madam, said he unto her, whether you re∣member those cruell words you gave me at Babylon, when you told me that a Passion which begun by absence never lasted long. So many crosse adventures have hapned since, replyed she, that I do not remember what we said; but (said she, and smiled)

if I did say so, I think that I did not speak out of reason; for since absence doth of∣ten destroy the most firm grounded affections, well may it destroy a green beginning one.

It seems then Madam, replyed Atergatis, that my affection to you is not of such a Nature as time and absence can destroy, since it is most certain I do love and adore you more now, then when I left you; and I may truly say, that there was not a day passed over, wherein my Love did not kindle new fires to burn my heart, and make me more miserable: For the more of the world I saw, the more I knew how to value your worth. And the Court of Bythinia, though full of excellent Beauties, hath let me know, that you are not only a person of most absolute perfection in Assyria, but in the world, since I am most sure that all the places I ever came in could not produce one comparable.

Though Aplauds be very pleasing, replyed Istrina, principally from a man whom one esteems, yet I beseech you be a little sparing of them, least I should suspect you of flattery, and doubt of what you shall hereafter tell me: Provided Madam, you do not doubt my affection, replyed Atergatis, I do not feare your doubting the truth of my words, when I commend you more then ever I did any; for truly Madam, when I tell you that you are the fairest person of the whole world, if you wil not believe me, I beseech you believe your Glass. If I tell you that you have more wit then those who have the most, that very same wit w^ch knows others so perfectly, wil not permit you to doubt of what I say, nor suffer you to accuse me of any untruth when I extoll all your vertues: And if I were sure you would as well believe I love you, as you must needs believe your selfe lovely, I should be much happier then I am: and indeed Madam, un∣lesse you do not esteem me at all, you cannot choose but think that I do admire you.

I do assure you Sir, replyed Istrina, I do so little know my selfe, as I cannot tel〈…〉〈…〉 whether one doth me right or wrong; when they esteem me much, or not at all: However, I do once more intreat you not to commend me over much, and I do con∣jure you not to tell me any more of your affection; for (said she, and smiled) though I would believe you loved me, yet I ought not to give credit unto your words, there∣fore Sir, I intreat you to live with me as the Prince my brother doth; for I do assure you that though he does not tell me that he loves me, yet I am very confident of his affection.

Oh Madam, said Atergatis, Love and Friendship are things very different: Friend∣ship may be dumb, and indeed it were an odd thing, that all ones Friends should still be telling that they love; but as for love Madam, it cannot be so: Indeed it is so farre from being dumb as you would have it, that it must be eloquent; and aggravations are so naturall unto it, as one may say, it is above all aggravations, since certainly one can never love too much: It is a crime to talke of any thieg but his passion, when a Lover is so happy as to be alone with the person he adores. Judg therefore Madam, I beseech you, whether I have not cause to complain against that rigorous command of not talking unto you of my passion; and whether I have not reason to make my Complaints unto the Prince Intaphernes, I had rather you made your Complaints Sir, replyed she, unto my Brother, then unto me; yet I hope, replyed he, that he would move you to do me Justice. However, I beseech you, give me leave to aske you Ma∣dam, whether after your once intended thoughts of Raigning over all Assyria, and the thoughts of having infinite multitudes for your Subjects, you can be satisfied with having only the unfortunate Atergatis for your slave?

As Istrina was ready to reply, the Prince Intaphernes came unto them, and told the Princess his Sister that she was to goe unto the Court, to the end she might know how to behave her selfe: He made a short description of the hasty and imperious hu∣mor of Arsamones, of the vertue and prudence of the Queen Arbiana; but when he came to mention the Princess of Bythinia, he applauded her so highly, and in such a manner, as if he feared he could never commend her enough; insomuch as Istrina i∣magined that he loved her as much as he esteemed her. Did I not know (said she un∣to the Prince her brother) that you have been alwayes in the Army, since you came into Bythinia, I should think that the beauty of this Princess whom you so highly ap∣plaud, had very much engaged your heart: But since I heare of all your Victories, I cannot believe you will let your selfe be vanquished: Doubtlesse Sister, replyed Inta∣phernes, we have been Conquerors in the Wars, ••ut yet Love hath conquered me:

And that liberty which I preserved amidst all the Babylonian Beauties is lost at Calce∣donea, by the sight of the Bythinian Princess. Therefore my dearest Sister, give me leave to plead for Atergatis unto you with more zeale then ever I did; for now I know by my own experience what this tyrannicall passion is, which causeth the grea∣test delight, and the greatest miseries of life, and therefore Sister I do interest my selfe more then ever I did in the passion of Atergatis unto you.

I should have thought, replyed Istrina, that those who are in Love, would have bin so taken up with their own passion, as they would not have had leasure to employ themselves in the passions of others; but for ought I see, I am deceiued in my opinion. Yet I do perceive that I must prepare my selfe for as much friendship to the Princess of Bythinia, as you have Love, if I will preserve my selfe in your good opinion. Cer∣tainly Sister, replied he, if you do not love her, you will do me a great displeasure, but that I believe will never happen, since it is absolutely impossible to know her, and not to love her, especially having a soule so sensible of Merit as you have.

This Princesse (added he) hath this conformity in her fortune with yours, that she once thought to have been the Queen of Pontus, as you of Assyria, though both failed upon different causes. She hath a Brother also whom she loves as you have, and who most tenderly loves her: he is absent from her, as I have been from you: and I do find such a sutableness between her fortune and yours; that though you do not love her by acquaintance, yet you must love her by simpathy: When we come to Calcedonia (replied she) I shall tell you more; In the mean time, I beseech you Brother tell in what condition is the War? For I must confess I do heartily wish it were ended.

Though Arsamenes replyed Intaphernes hath alwayes conquered, yet he hath much to conquer; for the King of Pontus, though he have lost two Battles, yet he is ••ow in the Head of an Army, having still for his Retreat the prime City which is not easie to be taken; for doubtless you know that Heraclia by reason of the Sea, is very strong, having it for its scituation.

On the other side, Araminta his Sister is in Cabara in the hands of one of her Lovers, named Artanus, who was carryed away when the King of Pontus returned unto Hera∣clia, after he had obtained his liberty by the generosity of that renowned Stranger, called Artamenes, who hath made the Arms of Ciaxares so famous, and whose repu∣tation is so high: so that though he had vanquished the King of Pontus, defeated his Army, and taken Heraclia, yet he must after all that Fight with Artanus, and take Cabura.

Alas deare brother, cryed out Istrina, how many dangers and vexations are to be endured before Peace be in Bythinia, or in my heart? After this, since the love of In∣taphernes was new, and violent, he could not forbear speaking of it, so that the Prin∣cess Istrina out of complacency did hearken unto him according to his desires: I be∣seech you Brother (said she unto him) how came Love to be predominate in your heart? Did you love the Princess of Bythinia as soon as you saw her? Is it the charms of her beauty, or her wit that hath captivated you? and was your Passion as violent at first as now? When Atergatis & I came first into Bythinia, replyed Intaphernes, we went strait into the Army: so that not having seen the Princess till the Army drew into Winter quarters, it was not untill then my heart began to be engaged: 'Tis true, that I may reckon my Captivity from the first day I saw the Princess of Bythi∣nia, since my eyes did no sooner see her, then my heart admired her; methought I had found that which I had long sought after: her beauty did strike me into admiration, but I fancied the same Idea before.

At the first, I fancied her to have as much wit as beauty, and as much vertue as ei∣ther; so that fancying her to be full of perfection, I loved her, and told my selfe that he who was so happy as to have her Love, was the happiest man alive. Do not wonder to hear me speak incertainly upon the passages of my heart; for the truth is, deare Si∣ster, I had such different apprehensions, that I can hardly give a true relation. The thing I know of most certainty is, that I admired her as much as I was able; but that which most made me loose my self, was the first words which I heard from the mouth of this admired person, which were not only full of Wit and Civility, but also of Commendations which she gave me; for it seems Fame had flattered me unto her, for some Acts which I had done in the Wars.

After this, Sister, never aske me what I did, for indeed I did nothing but endeavour to fasten those chaines which did captivate me with as much care, as others tooke to break theirs.

In the mean time, I suffered without Complaint: And if Atergatis had not given that Princess sometimes an occasion to guesse at my passion, by some discourse he had with her, she had still been ignorant that I was the man who did adore her with most reverence.

After this, since it was very late, it was that night resolved that they should de∣part the next morning, and to talk together all that day. We departed from that place which was three dayes journey from Calcedonia, and by the way mist Arbianas Coach which stayed for us, with one of that Queens chief Officers, who was charged with a thousand obliging Complements unto the Princess Istrina. The truth is, she was ex∣ceedingly well received both by Arsamones, and Arbiana, and the Princess their Daughter: They lodged her in the best Chamber of the Palace, and did her all the ho∣nours that were due unto her Merit, as well as unto her Quality. It chanced also that the Princess of Bythinia had as great an inclination unto Istrina, as Istrina, had unto her, so that both of them did quickly love each other most tenderly, and friend∣ship did grow as soon in their hearts, as love did in the heart of Intaphernes. Since their Chambers were very neare together, they saw one another every hour, and were such intimate friends, that they trusted each other with their Aduentures: so that the Princess of Bythinia acquainted Istrina with the love of Sinnesis to her, with the death of that Prince, and all passages even unto that very hour. Istrina for her part, imparted the Love of Atergatis unto her, so that there was a mutuall exchange of secrets between those two Beauties.

In the mean time, though the Princess Istrina did much grieve at the death of the Queen Nitocris; yet since she came into a Court which victory had filled with joyes, she must be a sharer in the diversions. Not but that the absence of the Prince Spitri∣dates did much grieve both the Queen of Bythinia, and the Princesse her Daughter, and all of any quality in Court: Yet for all that, since Arsamones was a Prince who would make himself feared, and who as fruits of his victory would enjoy all the de∣lights in Calcedonia, he said that it was but just, that all those who had taken so much pains in helping him to vanquish, should also take the pleasures of the Victory. Yet Madam, you cannot imagine this Court like unto that of a great King in time of Peace, where men of Sword and Blood use not to be, but you must conceive it to be a Miscellany of all sorts of People, Officers of the Army, Voluntiers, Courtiers, Soul∣diers of Fortune, Justices, Magistrates, Priests, and indeed all sorts: For since the Wars had put all in disorder; and since none did strive to appear above his degree, in those bad times: and since every one would be intruders, one might then have seen in the King of Bythinia's Presence Chamber, some men in such a shabbid habit as durst not look in at the Gates iu times of Peace.

But since he stood in need of such to compleat his Conquest, he would not disob∣lige the men of meanest quality, but suffered them to come into the Court, untill he was se led in his Throne. However, since men of reall worth were mingled amongst the rest, the Court was magnificent, and its Tumult had something so delightfull in it, as was not at all wearisome.

This Court being such as I have described, all delights were as if it were in a croud: There was Hors-races, Barryers, Tilting, Dancing, M••sick and Feasts: But in all these Intaphernes and Atergatis did behave themselves so admirably, as they did attract the admiration of all: The greatest advantage unto them was, that they got the esteem of those Princesses whom they adored, it not being possible to see two so equally ex∣cellent in such and so many severall things, but to give them commendations accor∣ding to their merits.

I remember one day amongst the rest, when there was a great Assembly about the Queen of Bythinia, Intaphernes danced with such a becoming grace, as all the com∣pany talked of nothing else all that night. And the truth is, Madam, this Prince who fought like a Lion in the Field, did dance as if he used nothing else; for he did it in so noble a manner, and with so free, so gallant, so easie, and so naturall an Aire, as he could not choose but charm all eyes.

But to return from whence I dig〈…〉〈…〉ed; one night when a Ball was kept by the Queen Arbiana, the Princess Istrina being retired into the Chamber of the Bythinian Princess, who requested her so to doe, that they might have some talk together; though it was something late, they began to confer together of all passages, and what they had observed at the Ball.

After they had discoursed upon those that were fair, and that those were not; of such as danced much, and such as danced but a little; who did well, and who not. The Princess of Bythinia began to commend Intaphernes and Atergatis: after which, per∣ceiving that Istrina durst neither contradict her, nor consent unto what she said, she began to chide her, affirming that since she would not commend Atergatis, she must needs love him as well as the Prince her Brother: However, said she, if it be so, you do an injury unto our friendship; for truly I have imparted my very heart unto you, but it seems you hide yours, since you tell me that Atergatis loves you, and will not confesse that you love him. I am yet more culpable, Madam, then you ima∣gine, said Istrina craftily (to be revenged on her) for I have more secrets then one, which I will not impart unto you. How Madam (replyed the Princess of Bythinia) if so; you must resolve not to sleep this night, unlesse you impart them to mee: If I do impart them, replyed Istrina, it must be this very hour; for I believe if you give me time to think upon it, I shall never impart them, nor indeed do I think I ever shall: Surely they are strange secrets (replyed the Princess of Bythinia) since they come so hardly out; there is one amongst the rest, replyed Istrina, which I would never im∣part, but I am sure you will know it, though I never speak a word. If so (said the Princesse of Bythinia) my obligation will be the lesse, since I must know it by ano∣ther; but be what it will, I beseech you tell me what it is? Since you will needs know it Madam, replyed she and laughed, I must tell you that you are the most cruell wo∣man in the world, in captivating those who come to sacrifice their lives to set the King your Father upon the Throne. For truly Madam, Intaphernes is at this present so little his, and so absolutely yours, that it may very well be said, you only are able to make his destiny good or bad as you shall please.

How's this Madam (replyed the Princess of Bythinia) believe me you are too full of revenge: Surely I did not offend you so much as to make you punish me by any Raillary which hath a false foundation. I wish the Gods, replyed Istrina, that it were not true for Intaphernes his sake: Yet Madam (added she, and assumed a more serious countenance) what I told you laughing ought not to incense you either a∣gainst the Prince my Brother, or against my selfe; for I did not tell it you by any or∣ders from him, nor with intentions to let him know I told you, but only to know of you what you would have me advise him unto? I thought (replyed the Princesse of Bythinia) that you had spoke in a way of Raillary; but since you speake in a seri∣ous manner, and since my love to you will not permit me to conceale any thing which is in my heart from you, I must tell you, that I should be very sorry the Prince Intaphernes should engage himself so farre as to love me, because I do infinitely e∣steem him; for after experience, what trouble it is to resist ones self, I will not ex∣pose my selfe unto it again.

The King my Father is so bent upon his own will, and doth so absolutely require mine to be conformable unto his, as I will never resolve upon any thing lest it should be contrary to his will; therefore, since it is to be feared that I shall never have the glory to be loved by such an accomplished Prince as Intaphernes is, it is requisite both for his tranquility and mine, that you advise him only to esteem me in the way of friendship.

I beseech you Madam, replyed Istrina, that you will be pleased to teach me what course I should take to make him obey you; so that knowing how to cure the Prince my Brother of his love to you, I may also cure Atergatis of his love to me. Since Atergatis doth love one that is infinitely lovely (replied the Princess of Bythinia) I do not think it so easie a matter to cure him as Intaphernes. And since Intaphernes, replied she, doth adore a Princess infinitely more accomplished then Istrina, it's probable he will not be so easily cured as Atergatis. Seriously Madam (replied the Princess of Bythinia) you would do me a very notable pleasure if you would remove out of In∣taphernes his heart that slight passion which I will believe he hath unto me; yet trans∣act so with him I beseech you, said she and blusht, as I do not loose his esteem. Truly

Madam, replyed Istrina, I do think it a thing impossible to quench the flames which you have kindled in the heart of Intaphernes: However, replyed she, do what you can to hinder him from telling me of his affection: Tell him, that if he never speak of it, I have promised you to behave my selfe as civilly to him as I do at this present, and for your sake, be as free with him as hitherto I have been: Really Madam, reply∣ed Istrina, it is very strange you should speak this: However (added she, and smiled) to keep you from treating Intaphernes more coldly then ordinary; I must tell you, that if you do treat him so, I shall acquaint him with the discourse which we have had; for though it be not much in his advantage, yet I am confident he will be very glad to heare how you know of his Love.

I beseech you Madam, replyed the Princess of Bythinia, do not so, unlesse you pro∣voke me to a revenge in acquainting Atergatis with some flames which I have disco∣vered to flash out of your heart against your will. Then Madam, you must promise me, replied Istrina, to carry your selfe in appearance as if you did not know of his affection, and yet to be something obliging, as if you did not hate him. I do not see, replied the Princess of Bythinia, and blush'd, that this promise which you would have me make is at all necessary; for truly to speak with the same ingenuous sincerity as we use to do of things. I do not think one can be angry that such a very accomplished man should love one: I know that one may not love him, and fully intend never to do it; but I must confess I cannot understand why one should hate a man for no o∣ther reason but because he loves; and I am perswaded, that though one do hate a Lover, yet perhaps they may not hate his passion, unless it force one beyond respect; for in that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 conceive; it cannot be termed Love which is not full of respect: and I should easily hate such as should not behave themselves as they ought to do.

Since Madam the Prince my brother, answered Istrina, can never faile in his reve∣rent respects of you, you do me the greatest pleasure in the world to speak as you do; for since Madam you say that one may not love a Lover, and yet not hate his passi∣on, I am most confident that you will tolerate the passion of Intaphernes: And if you will be pleased to give me leave to tell you what I think; I must tell you that I do not despair of my brothers happiness: For truly Madam (said she, and smiled) it is a marvellous piece of cunning to separate a Lover and Love: and for my part, I must freely confesse I cannot do it, nor can I understand how one can affect to be loved by a man whom one cannot love; nor delight in any affection, and hate him that owesit. For my particular, I confesse that I have not so much wit as to distinguish a Lover from his Love; for if the Love please me, it is because the Lover doth not dis∣please me: and I must maintain, that one cannot long take pleasure in being loved by any one, unless his person as well as his passion; for a Lover and love are in∣separable, and one cannot love the one, and hate the other.

Did I not know replied the Princess of Bythinia, that your aime Madam is, to draw some advantageous consequences for Intaphernes, and disadvantageous unto me by talking thus, I should extreamly wonder to hear you maintain so bad a cause; For you know as well as I can tell you, that one is glad to be esteemed by ones greatest Enemies: And it is so naturall to desire the being Loved, as it may easily be main∣tained that Love never angred any: But we are apt to confound the effects of Passion, with the passion it selfe, as well as the faults of Lovers with love; but certainly, se∣parate the faults of Lovers from them, and they cannot displease, though the Lovers themselves may.

However it be, said Istrina, I shall content my self with the happiness of the Prince my brother, because his passion doth not at this present incense you; for I am most confident, that if you did hate him Madam, it would vexe you: I should doubtlesse be very unjust (replyed the Princess of Bythinia) if I should hate the Prince Intapher∣nes who hath done the King my Father such glorious service: But Madam, I must tell you, there is a great distance between hatred and love. However added she (to conclude this Conference) since it is very late, it is time to sleep, lest that lively co∣lour in your cheeks lose its freshness in the morning, and lest the Prince Atergatis should be troubled at it, and think he made you sick with over-dancing you. I can∣not tell Madam (replied Istrina and laughed) whether you have not some ends of your own in the advice which you give me; and whether you think not more of your own Complexion, and those sprightly eyes, then at my health: but however I will

follow it and obey yon: And so these two Beauties parted, and went to take that rest which they took from others, for truly Intaphernes and Atergatis took none: Not that they had any cause to complain against the Persons whom they loved and a∣dored. For the Prince Intaphernes found the Princess of Bythinia the sweetest and most civill in the world; And Atergatis knew very well, for all the reservednesse of Istrina that she did not hate him.

But being both of them men of a deep wit, and infinite spirit, they knew also, that though they should meet with no obstructions from the Princesses whom they loved, yet they could not be happy without much danger and trouble; For they were not ig∣norant that those Princesses were too wise to displease those upon whom they had de∣pendency, since the Princess of Bythinia had heretofore refused to be Qu: of Pontus ra∣ther then disobey Arsamoues: And since Istrina also would not have gon out of Babylon but only because she feared that the Prince Gadates her Father should take it ill if she stayed. So that not doubting but the King of Bythinia and Gadates would oppose their designs, they could not choose but be exceedingy troubled at it. For indeed Intaphernes knew very well, that as long as the Warr lasted, Arsaemones wovld keep many Princes in hope of giving his Daughter unto them, to keep them close to his in∣terest; and that as long as Spitridates did not appear, he would not think of marry∣ing her unto any; for since it was not then known where that illustrious Prince was, (who we knew since was carried into Persia, and taken for Cyrus) it was doubtfull whether that Princess should be Queen or no, and by consequence Arsamones would not dispose of her.

On the other side, Atergatis was well informed, that the Prince Gadates, for all the aversion to the King of Assyria, to Istrina, and for all her affection unto you, yet he was still in hopes of seeing her Qu: of Assyria; since she was the only person whom according to the Laws of that State, that Prince could marry: And his hopes was al∣so, that the worst treatment he received from you Madam, at Babylon, the sooner would he be cured of his Love, and reduced unto Reason, by marrying Istrina out of Maximes of State, though not out of affection.

Thus Intaphernes and Atergatis foreseeing these obstacles unto their designs, did suffer more miseries then they would expresse. Intaphernes was the more miserable of the two; for since he had not the liberty to speak of his passion unto that Princess who caused it, he was more to be pittied then Atergatis: Though he did endeavour all manner of wayes to talk with her, yet it was a very difficult thing to find her a∣lone; for when she was with the Queen, there was always so much company, that it was absolutely impossible to find a privacy: and when she was in her own Chamber, there was another obstacle, which for a while he thought invincible.

But Madam, that you may the better understand it, be pleased to know, that there was a Lady in Calcedonia, whose name was Berisa, who though she had a hundred se∣verall employ ments, yet she was hardly an hour from the Princess of Bythinia: Not that the Princess did love her; for on the contrary, she was very troublesom to her; But this woman did so intrude upon her, to the end that other Ladies of the Town might think her a Favourite, that she was one of the most burthensome creatures in the world.

For truly Madam, she cared not a straw for troubling her, so shee should be but where she would be: She was alwayes the first that came to the Princess of Bythinia; and though she would still be fisking into other places, yet she would return again, and be the last with her: There was no need of talking to her, for she would have her vie in every thing that was in discourse: If the Princess was sick, she would send to see how she did three or four times in a day; she never talked of any thing but what was said, and what was done at the Princess of Bythinia's: she would always walke with her whether she would or no, and would still be thrusting into her Coach be∣fore Ladies of better Quality then her selfe was. Truth is Madam, she was as bold and impudent, as the Princess of Bythinia was civill and sweet: And though shee was one of the most troublesome and impertinent women in the world, yet she was with the Princess more then any other all the while she was in Calcedonia: But the odddest passage in the behaviour of Berisa; and if you will, the greatest wonder is, that she would not be only always with the Princess of Bythinia, and with the Queen, but she was also as much in the Town as the Court: She was at all Funerals, at all Marriages,

at all Christnings, and at all both publick and private Diversions. None could be sick but she would go to see them, none could have any occasion of joy, but she wonld go and be a partaker: but though she had a hundred severall employments, yet she dispatched them so hastily, as one would have thought that she never stirred from the Pincess of Bythinia, since whithersoever she went, she alwayes returned to her.

Moreover it was observed, that Berisa was never ignorant of any thing that was sayd in her presence; thinking it against her honour that any one should know a thing which she knew not: she would say that she knew a thing, though she was altogether ignorant of it; yet she had many cunning fetches to make one relate a business unto her, and to seem as if she was very well informed, she would tell them that talked to her, that there was yet many particulars which she knew of and they did not, which she would tell them another time: after which, she would u∣sually tell others what was related unto her, as confidently as if she knew it before. Moreover, she had a fancy to hold secresy, or rather a shew of secresy with all men she saw, provided they were Courtiers: she would alwaies be whispering one after another with all she met, either upon matters of War or business of State, or Cabi∣net news, or business of Gallantry, or some tittle tattle or other. Indeed, Madam, I do not think ever any was so earnest in every thing without any business: I remem∣ber one day amongst the rest, the Prince Intaphernes who did not love her did ob∣serve her actions: and it will let you see, Madam, how she used to imploy her time. Be pleased then to know, Madam, that there is a Church in Calcedonia, unto which all the Beauties used to pay their Devotions, sooner then any other; except the two Princesses who used to go unto a little Church neerer the Palace: so that Berisa to loose no time went betimes unto that where all the Beauties were, which used to begin betimes, & from thence unto the Church of the two Princesses which used to be later: After this, she went to comfort a man whose wife was dead, & after that she went and dined with a Lady whom yet she did not very well love; as soon as ever she rose from the Table, she went to the Wedding of a woman of her acquaintance, and from thence to see one of her Cosins: then she came and took her turn with the Princess of Bythinia, and after she had related all that she had gleaned from those places, she went out again, to go and see a stately Ship which a friend of hers had built by the Kings orders, and was then to be lanched to Sea the first time; after that, she made two or three Visits which lasted no longer then the Complement of going in, and coming out, after she knew who was in the house; after these Visits, Beri∣sa took a turn in the walks by the Sea side, where many Beauties used to walk in that Season: from thence she returned to the Princess of Bythinia, for whom she under∣stood there was a magnificent Banqvet prepared that evening in a Garden; so that going with her she was a partaker of the pleasure: yet all this was not enough, for the Princess returning to the Palace very timely, Berisa went to make her excuses unto one who had invited her unto Supper, from thence she went to a Bal at a Ladies house, who had married her Daughter; but before she went home, she went unto the Princess of Bythinias bed-side, to bid her good-night: Judge, Madam, whether this day was not well employed, and whether it had not been enough for any two, ex∣cept Berisa: yet this I must say, because it is true, that this Lady would not have been so displeasing, nor her company so wearisom, if she had not been so earnest in going every where, and in talking upon every thing, and intruding herself into all manner of things: but as she was, I must needs say, that there were very few of any Quali∣ty in all the Court, unto whom she was not once a day troublesom, since she was con∣tinually with the Princess of Bythinia, who was the greatest Ornament of the Court, and attracted all the Gallants about her. After this, Madam, you may easily imagine, that a person who was troublesom unto so very many, was also very troublesom un∣to Intaphernes, by taking from him opportunities of talking with her whom he ado∣red; and he became as great a hater of her, as he was a Lover of the Bythinian Prin∣cess: and though he was one of the most civill men in the world, especially unto La∣dies, yet he had so great a disposition to cross this, that he did continually contra∣dict her, unless when she commended that Princess whom he loved: yet somtimes he found occasion to contest with her about that, affirming that she did not commend her enough, or in such a manner as she deserved. Furthermore, he was so unhappy, as

that she was more troublesom to him then any other: for since she observed that he was much in favour with Arsamones, with Arbiana, and with the Princess their Daugh∣ter, she intruded upon him more then upon any other man: so that she was more assiduous about the Princess when he was there, then when he was not: However, his fears to pass for an uncivill man, and the example of the Bythinian Princess, moo∣ved him to endure against his mind, and contented himself with continually contra∣dicting her. But when he was with Istrina, how full of invectives was he against Beri∣sa? Dear Sister, sayd he unto her one day in my presence, why do you not perswade the Princess of Bythinia, that it is not for her glory to be so eternally troubled with this impertinent woman, which haunts her every where: who is such an ubiquitary, that she is every where, especially with her? For truly, its fit that persons of her Quali∣ty should have such only about her as she desires to have: No, Brother, replyed I∣strina; but on the contrary, it is the quality of the Princess which deprives her of the liberty to choose who she would have about her; For the Gates of Princes, and the Gates of Temples ought alwaies to be open: and because Kings are Gods, and above all others, they ought to expose themselves unto the sight of all the world; And in∣deed what do you think Berisa would say, if the Princess should forbid her to come so much into her presence? and what would those say, unto whom Berisa is most trou∣blesom? As for my part (sayd Intaphernes and interrupted her) I would say she did very well, and that she had done me a very great pleasure: nor can I understand why the Princess, because she is a Princess, should therfore be obliged to endure the perpetuall persecutions of such a troublesom person. I know very well, replyed Istri∣na, that it is a Torment; but yet as the state of affairs stands with Arsamones, the Princess must take heed of disobliging such a person as Berisa, who hanting so many places, would make a strange hurly burly, if she should be stinted in her Visits. You may say what you please, sayd Intaphernes, but I cannot abide that Berisa should al∣waies be where I would not have her to be. For my part, sayd I then unto the Princess Istrina, it would be a very good Office unto Berisa, if she were confined unto her own Quarters: for truly, if she were alwaies where she should be, she were a person very amiable, and would be no more troublesom then others: but she is still where she is never bidden, and often where she ought not to be; questionless she seems worse then she is: Therfore I would have her told, that none but persons of extraor∣dinary Merit, and invited ought to intrude into the company of the Bythinian Prin∣cess: for amongst persons of unequall quality, nothing but extraordinary Merits can give such a Priviledge. But who told you, replyed Istrina, that Berisa does not think herself of much merit: Though she had, replyed I, yet she ought to have stayed un∣till the Princess of Bythinia allowed her so much familiarity as she takes, and admit her merits were high enough; it is not fitting to blaze it: But for all this Berisa is to be excused; for since somtimes the most sad effects of the most violent passions are excused, and since men do ordinarily make use of Love, Ambition, and Jealousie, to justifie their ill actions, certainly some indulgency ought to be used towards Berisa, who assuredly hath a passion in her heart, which is as stronge as any of those I na∣med, and which many others are troubled with, as well as she, though they do not make it appear. Oh Orcames (sayd Istrina) do not insult so upon the poor Berisa, or accuse her of a Crime which she never thought of: For my part, replyed Intapher∣nes, I think she may be supposed to have a thousand in lieu of one; therfore Orcames I pray tell us what is the passion which Berisa is troubled with: It is, Sir, replyed I, an earnest desire to pass for a Courtier: and I beleive this kind of envy to be a pas∣sion, and a most violent one. For my part, I know women in the Town more spright∣ly and more amiable then Berisa who are haunted with this passion, which doth so tyrannize over them, as it makes as great an alteration in their hearts as Love, Jea∣lousie, or Ambition could; for they cannot abide any thing which is not of the Court: and indeed men whose Professions are not Souldiers, are insufferable unto them, women of their quality make them ashamed, they know not what to talk off, and their passions are so strong, as that they think they cannot live, but where they ought not to be, unless, as I sayd before, when they are called and invited thither: for in that case, I confess the Court is a very sweet and pleasing life, and of what qua∣lity soever one be they may keep their Ranks with decency and honour. However, this will serve to excuse the poor Berisa, since certainly the passion of the Court is

more violent then you imagine: However it be, sayd Intaphernes unto Istrina, you would do me the greatest favour in the world, if you could banish her from the Prin∣cess of Bythinia; for I cannot endure to see a person perpetually with her who ne∣ver does any thing what she ought to do; who is never where she ought to be, who is still talking what she should not, and who is more troublesom to me then any other, though she is a continuall trouble unto all the Court: And if you cannot banish her, yet I beseech you do me the favour, to talk with her alwaies when I am where you and she is: for I profess I cannot endure she should talk to me, or to the Princess whom I adore. Istrina hearing Intaphernes speak thus, did easily apprehend the reason why he hated Berisa: so that not being able to forbeare laughing, she told him by way of Raillary, that Envy was too poor a Passion to be entertained in his heart, ther∣fore I pray let the poor Berisa quietly enjoy a happiness which she hath taken so much pains to obtain: As Intaphernes was ready to answer, the Princess of Bythinia entred, and Berisa only followed her, the rest of her women waiting in the outer Chamber. Since the Princess Istrina was then in a laughing humour, the sight of Berisa did so augment it, that for all the reverence which she desired to pay unto the Prince of By∣thinia, she could not hold: so that being obliged to a Complement, I ask your Par∣don, Madam, sayd she unto her, for being in such a merry vaine, as that I cannot ex∣press my joyes of seeing you more seriously: I will very willingly pardon you, re∣plyed the Princess, upon condition you will tell me the cause of your joyes and mirth; for since you do not use to laugh unseasonably at nothing, I am much mistaken, if it be not worth the knowing: I assure you, Madam (replyed Istrina and laughed still) I should wish you knew it, if I did not fear that the Prince my Brother would op∣pose it: To prevent him (sayd Berisa, who would have her vie in every thing) I will promise you to talk with him as long as you please; you shall not need to take so much pains (replyed he) for since I cannot oppose the Princess in any thing, I am willing she should know what she desires. However (replyed Istrina craftily) you must needs entertain Berisa whilst I obey the Princess: for you know I must not speak alowd all that she desires to know; Intaphernes would have sayd somthing to put it off, but the Princess of Bythinia imposed silence upon him; and since she command∣ed him to talk with Berisa, he must needs obey. Thus poor Berisa, not knowing that she herself was the cause of that secret which Istrina told the Princess of Bithinia, be∣gan to talk with Intaphernes, and employed all her wits and cunning to make him tell her what the matter was, which you may be sure, he did not impart: But whilst he was weary of Berisa, the Princess of Bithinia was very pleasant with Istrina; for she hath since told that she made such a pleasant relation of the Conference which that Prince and I had with her, as she never in her life passed away an hour more merrily: Istrina related it in such a manner as let the Princess understand the principall cause of Intaphernes his hatred of Berisa, thinking it to be advantageous to the Prince her Bro∣ther, that she should know his affection to her, caused his aversion unto that woman, yet it proved not so advantageous as she imagined; for the Princess of Bythinia desi∣ring to avoid all occasions of being alone with Intaphernes, resolved to cherrish Be∣risa more then she used, though she did not acquaint Istrina with it at that time. Yet to begin her torments upon him by Berisa, she talked so long with Istrina, that at last she pittied him, and did admit him into their discourse. Well, Madam, sayd he unto her, do you find that I had reason to speak as I did? I find, sayd she, that you had reason, and that you were in the wrong also: I assure you, Madam (sayd Berisa to flatter Intaphernes) I can hardly think that the Prince Intaphernes hath not reason for every thing he sayth or doth; and if I do guess right, he is not in so much wrong as you imagine. Alas Berisa (sayd the Princess and laughed) if you did guess right you would condemn him more then I do; for I say he was right in some things, but doubtless you would say he were wrong in all: yet, replyed she, his Crime doth not much trouble you, since you laugh so heartily. Do not think, sayd Istrina then, that though the Princess condemns my Brother, he is very Criminall, since she condemns him unjustly though she have no interest in the business. Berisa was exceedingly puz∣led to gess at the business: She called to memory all that passed of late in Court, but since she did not look into herself for the cause of Istrinas mirth, and for the secret which she had imparted unto the Princess of Bythinia, she was not like to find it: so that the more she mused, the more merry she made them. In the mean time, Intapher∣nes

wondered to observe, that the Princess of Bythinia was much more civill towards Berisa, then she used to be; for she did not only suffer her, but she talked after with her, especially when Intaphernes was present: You may well imagine Madam, that one who was wont to go unbidden unto a hundred several places, was very assiduous and officious in a place where she thought her self welcome and desired; and she stuck so close to this Princess, that they were almost inseparable, yet for all that, she had a hundred severall businesses in hand, and would go unto a hundred severall places; but she managed her time so well, that she always went at such houres as the Princess of Bythinia was not to be seen, so as it seemed as if she were never from her.

Intaphernes perceiving this new favour, was strangely surprized, for he knew the Princess did not love Berisa: so that making his Complaints unto Istrina, and conju∣ring her to tell him why Berisa was more in favour then ordinary, he found her as ig∣norant and as much troubled at it, as himself.

Atergatis also, as witty as he was, he could not dive into the mystery of the busi∣nesse, so that this Prince was in a most pittifull perplexity; yet had he known the thoughts of the Bythinian Princess heart, he had not been so unquiet, for she confessed afterwards unto the Princess Istrina, that the chief reason why she made use of Berisa was only to prevent Intaphernes from all opportunities of expressing his passion unto her: also since she esteemed him in such a particular manner, and perceiving a great inclination in her heart towards him, she would not put her self to the necessity of speaking either too harshly or too favourably: but however, since he could not see into the soule of that Princess, he was extreamly unsatisfied. Istrina, who knew all the reasons which might induce the Prince her Brother not to engage himself too farr in a businesse which had so much difficulty in it, did use her best arguments to per∣swade him not yet to declare himself, but to stay untill the War was ended, before he told her of his Love.

But though he seemed to adhere unto this advice, yet he liked his own best, and resolved to discover his passion unto the Princess of Bythinia as soon as he found a fit opportunity: But Madam, the difficulty was, to find this opportunity, by reason of Berisa's assiduity about her. After he had many dayes waited for it, and all in vain; he bethought himselfe at last of a way to advance his design; which was, to put Berisa upon such a piece of business as would keep her a whole day from going to the Prin∣cesse of Bythinia: so that doing me the honour to trust me with his secret, I helped him to deceive Berisa.

I invited severall of my Friends unto a Feast, upon condition they would all en∣gage Berisa to be there; My friends though they did not love her, yet did not deny me, because the noise of Berisa's new favour with the Princess was spread over all the world, and so I engaged her to dine with me, and many other Ladies at a very faire house scituated upon the Sea side some thirty furlongs from Calcedonia; yet she would not promise me but upon Condition I would let her return to the Town as soon as Dinner was done: Since I had a secret design in the business, I promised she should, and assured her that a Coach should be ready to bring her back when she pleased: I assured her also, to the end she should not faile, that there should not be one man or woman of the Town in the company, but named unto her those that were to be there, at whom she was well pleased, because they were all Courtiers; but for all that, the principall reason which mooved her to promise me her presence, was, because she observed that the Princes Intaphernes and Atergatis did me the ho∣nour to love me.

This Feast being thus concluded upon, it was kept some two dayes after; yet Be∣risa went not out of Calcedonia until she had taken her turne with the Queen & Prin∣cess of Bythinia, unto whom she promised to return as soon as ever dinner was done: She made this promise in my presence, for I accompanied her to the Princess, and would not leave her, because I would make sure of her.

In the mean time, I know very wel that she could not return so soon as she intended: And Madam, be pleased to know, that after all my invited Guests were assembled to∣gether, we all went unto a place designed for this trick, which indeed was a pleasant place; for besides the Gardens which are very noble and fine, there was at the end of a long walk, by the Sea-side, the point of a Rock which did shoot it self into the Sea, upon which was built a very magnificent house, out of which might be seen from

three sides of it, the waves of the Sea dashing against the foot of that Rock upon which it was built, and which sometimes according to the agitation of the winds would bound as high as the Windows, yet could not come through, but left a white scum like flakes of snow. The prospect of that place was full of delight, and thither it was I carryed Berisa, and all the Company which assembled purposely to delude her. Yet for the better effecting of my project, I caused that dinner to be very late, and as if chance had shamed me with ill servants, services came on so slowly, that one might have dined sufficiently between every dish: and I saw Berisa thought the time to be very long, and did sit upon thorns to return unto the Princess of Bythinia: But that this longness might seem lesse tedious, I provided the best things that could be got: As soon as the last Course was upon the Table, Berisa began to talk of go∣ing, and desired me to command the Coach to be ready; so that not contradicting her, I presently commanded one to be made ready, but it was to such men as I had in private commanded not to obey me: When dinner was done, she asked and I as∣ked whether the Coach was ready, and I was as earnest as she, purposely to delude her: and when answer was made that it was not ready, I seemed to be in such a colle∣rick fume, as she her self began to appease me.

In the mean time, since I had provided an open Barque, under pretence of divert∣ing the company upon the Sea: I propounded unto them to accept of this diversion, and to set Berisa halfway to Calcedonia, and so (said I and turned towards her) you will loose no time; for whilst they are coming with the Coach, we are still going un∣to the place where you desire to be, and though the Coach were ready, yet this is as ready a way: Since I winked upon one of my friends to second this proposition, she pressed it on so handsomely, that at last Berisa was perswaded to it, thinking that she should be as soon at Calcedonia this way, as the other. Then did we all Embarque, and to continue myproject, I commanded my men, that as soon as the Coach which was to carry Berisa was ready, it should go into such a place, where I said we should land Berisa. Since it was then neither too hot, nor too cold, it was pleasant taking the Aire at mid-day, and thereupon I grounded my Plot.

As soon as we were all in the Barque, Berisa began to complain that it went not fast enough, so that adding Oare to Saile we went faster: But having appointed him who was to steer, in lieu of going by the side, to put out to full Sea; he did as I ap∣pointed, and Berisa took no notice of it, because I alwayes kept her busie in talk.

But that my plot might better hit, before we came into the Barque, I told all the Ladies (who did not love the humour of Berisa) that it would be a good Jeast, if we could make her faile at this meeting which she had appointed at Calcedonia. So that all of them approving of my design, and since fallacies of this nature are no great Crimes, they assisted me exceeding well to keep Berisa from perceiving that we went quite contrary to the place she intended, for two or three of them would stand be∣fore her that she should not see which way we steered: Others held her in talke, and put a hundred Questions unto her one after another; so that flattering her, and trea∣ting her as the Princess of Bythinia's greatest favourite, we pleased her so very well, that she did not think the time tedious, nor perceived that we were far from the place where she expected her Coach, and thus was she deluded: But at last seeing we could not hide the truth from her any longer, I cryed out first to testifie my wonder that we were so far in the open Sea. As for Berisa, she was so surprized, that if I had not first found fault, I believe she would have quarrelled with me: but I was in such a chafe, and kept such a coile at it, that she could not imagine I intended to de∣ceive her. The Pilot said he understood me wrong, and thought I had commanded him to come in the Evening to the place where the Coach was to meet.

In the mean time, every one of us had such an itch of laughter upon us, that we could not hold; and we broke out in such a manner, as Berisa began to suspect the truth, and grew angry in good earnest: But when I perceived that her anger was ve∣ry high, I came unto her: If the Lovely Berisa (said I unto her, by such a way of flattery as I knew shee loved) were not a person who knowes all the world, and knows also when it is fit to be angry, and when not, I should feare that she had now some occasion of Choller; but being so much a Courtier as she is, though per∣haps some of the Ladies to enjoy her company the longer, had corrupted the Pilot to steer a wrong course, yet I know she understands Raillary too well to be offended at

it, and will rather thank her for so handsomly deceiving her. For my particular (ad∣ded I) I should have much ado not to take her part against you, since certainly I am infinitely joyed to see you here, so as I cannot chide her, for being a cause of my hap∣ness: For truly (said I unto her in a low voyce) you must know amiable Berisa, that this entertainment was intended only for you, and it would be a cruel piece of injustice not to allow a whole day unto him who cares not for the rest of the compa∣ny if you were gone.

Berisa hearing me speak thus, was a little qualified, saying, that she would wiling∣ly pardon those that deceived her, upon condition they will make as much hast to Land as they did from it. But the Pilot hearing her say so, and knowing well that it was not my mind, told her, that it was a thing impossible to go in a direct line unto the shoare, because there was many hidden Rocks which would endanger them.

The Pilot no sooner had said so, but all the company bade him have a care of that: and Berisa her selfe, as earnest as she was, did not contradict it, but desired him to carry her as soon as he could with safety to the shoar. As soon as she made that re∣quest, we did all so importune her to spend that day amongst us, that she could not deny us: and indeed we carried her back to the place where we dined, still perswa∣ding her, that she was much obliged unto us for the violence which we did her.

After we were returned thither, we sent for the Coach which waited halfe way to Calcedonia, and I appointed those which went, not to make over-much hast, but to be as slow in coming as could be, that it was almost night when it came, and then she must needs have so much patience as to stay a banquet before we parted: Thus Madam, to favour the Prince Intaphernes, I carried the matter so, as it was night be∣fore Berisa entered into Calcedonia. In the mean time that Prince the better to make use of her absence, obliged Atergatis to go very timely unto Istrina, and keep her from going unto the Princess of Bythinia: not that this Princess was ignorant of his passion, or disapproved of it: but since he knew how she did not think it fit for him as yet to discover himself unto that Princess, he desired to keep secret from her his de∣sign: And indeed Madam, he was so diligent, that he came to the Princess of Bythinia when she was newly risen from the table: and since that is the time when least company comes to her, and when Courtiers use not to make any visits, he had conveniency enough of talking with her: When he came into her Chamber she won∣dered to see him; I thought (said she unto him, and smiled) that none but Berisa would have visited me at such a time as this; but for ought I see, she hath left her Commission with you to supply her room; or at least I know you are now as hasty as she useth to be: yet I am perswaded you will not be long without her company, for she promised me to be here as soon as ever as she had dined.

Berisa is so very good company (replyed Intaphernes, and smiled as well as the Prin∣cess) as I can hardly think the Ladies with whom she is, will let her return so soon: But Madam, since I am perswaded that Berisa never useth to speak unto you con∣cerning me when she is alone with you; I beseech you let me not speak of her, now I have the happinesse to be here, when she is absent. I assure you Sir (replyed the Princess who had a mind to turn the discourse) that you very much wrong the poor Berisa, by being so averse towards her, as I have observed you are; for truly, though she be a little too intrusive; yet you need not hate her so much. Oh Madam (said Intaphernes) did you but know the harm she does me, you would confesse I have no reason to love her. The harm she hath done you, replyed she, is onely be∣cause you fancy that she cannot divert you; and because she meddles with every thing you would have her meddle with nothing; but yet I do not love such nice spi∣rits, and delicate wits, for it is very hard for them not to be very often unjust: Since Madam, it is your pleasure I should not complain against Berisa, replyed Intaphernes, I will reverence and obey all your desires: And to concurr with your opinion, and give you an occasion of calling me the most unjust man in the world, I must confesse, my obligations unto Berisa, for preventing me from being exposed a thousand times unto your anger. For Madam, since I am resolved to confesse all my sins unto you, I must let you know, that had it not been for the assiduity of busie Berisa, I had ere this told you above a hundred times that I am the man who admires you with more reverence then any man in the World, and loves you with a more violent and respe∣ctive passion.

How a hundred times? (replyed the Princess, and blush'd) believe me that should never have been; for after you had told me it the first time, you should never have told it a second. However, since you are more obliged unto Berisa then I imagined, though she be not present, you speak unto me as if she were; for if you do not, per∣haps you shall be driven to the necesity of grieving she is not here, though I know her presence never pleaseth you.

When I first resolved to tell you Madam, that I adored you, replyed Intaphernes, I did not believe you would give a favourable audience; but I must needs confesse, I did not despair of obtaining a pardon for a Crime which I could not repent of: and un∣lesse you had been absolutely the fairest person that ever lived, I should never have committed it, and told you that I was your adorer: but I tell it Madam without any other pretence, but only to obtain so much favour from you as not to banish me for telling it.

You talk in such a serious tone (replyed the Princess of Bythinia) as I cannot tell how to answer you, as if you had spoken only out of a piece of gallantry; and my o∣pinion is, that those who do not answer precisely unto such things, doubtlesse desire to be told it often: and therefore to spare my selfe much anger, and to preserve you in my esteem, I shall tell you very ingenuously, that I have a very high conceit and esteem of you, and that you are the man, whose esteem I do most desire; but I must tell you withall, that to keep us both in this esteem of each other, you must not tell me any more of such things as you speak of; and that if you do, I will never hear∣ken unto it.

If you observe this, you will most exceedingly oblige me; and both for your sake and my own, I will forget what now you have told me. Oh Madam, replyed Intapher∣nes, this is not the way to stop my mouth; for if you would have mee mention what I have told you, no more, you must honour me with a promise never to forget it: Protesting unto you, that if you will favour me so farre as to assure me that you will never forget it, I will then never speak of it again. You know very well replyed the Princess, that this which you demand is a thing which I neither ought, nor can con∣sent unto: But I must tell you, that if you will not do as I would have you, doubt∣lesse I shall not do as you would have me; for I will so absolutely take all opportuni∣ties of speaking to me from you, as you shall never meet with any occasion of telling me any thing that may either please, or anger me.

As Intaphernes was ready to reply, much company came in and prevented him, and they continued there all that day, so as he could not renue it. But the best passage was, the Princess of Bythinia went that night to the Princess Istrina, and Berisa at her return to Calcedonia, would have me carry her thither: so that Intaphernes being there also with many others, it was the best sport in the world to see with what ag∣gravations Berisa related the trick which I had put upon her: Ah Madam, said she as soon as ever she saw her, if you do not oblige the Prince Intaphernes to revenge my Quarrell upon Orcames, I shall complain against you as much as against him, for he is the cause of my not returning so soon as I designed, and why I have spent a whole long day without the honour of being with you. I assure you (replyed the Princess of Bythinia, knowing that Intaphernes would understand her meaning) I was never more sorry for your absence then this day, and I never more wanted your company: Me thinks Madam, replyed Intaphernes, that for all the merits of Berisa, you are inju∣rious unto all the company that were with you in speaking, as if you were weary of them: However it be (said the Princess) I wish Berisa had been here, especially af∣ter dinner: I assure you Madam (replyed Berisa to justifie her selfe) it wat not long of me, for I did as much as possible I could to be here again betimes.

After this, Berisa began to relate all the passage how she was deceived; not omit∣ting the least Circumstance: The Princess of Bythinia understood that this fallacy had no such obliging cause as Berisa believed; for she knew that I was no such zealous lo∣ver of her, as to take all that paines to hinder her return from Calcedonia; so that des∣canting upon the adventure, she imagined that he who had thus deluded Berisa, was well acquainted with the secrets of Intaphernes, & doubted not but that Prince had put him upon this device: At first she was a little angry at it, but presently after anger vanished; and she could not choose but think the passage pleasant, when she conside∣red the busie earnestness of Berisa, and her impossibility to do as she would: After

which, finding good cause to believe that the Love of Intaphernes was very great, since he was driven unto this shift to expresse his pasion, she thought upon it with∣out any anger, yet telling Berisa, that there can be no fallacy innocent; however, Madam, replyed Intaphernes, I hope you will confess that there are some fallacies which are no great Crimes in those who act them. I must confesse, replyed she, that perhaps there may be some pleasure to be taken in them; but I must needs con∣fesse withall, that there are no deceivers which are not culpable to some or other. There are some Crimes, replyed Istrina, which are so easie to be pardoned, as I can∣not tell whether the actors deserve the name of Culpable: and whether a terme ought not to be invented which might expresse such men, neither innocent nor culpable.

For my part, replyed the Princess of Bythinia, I know no such persons as you men∣tion, nor any Medium between Innocency and a Crime; nor will I take so much pains as to help out the Language with a word which I shall never stand in any need of; For I must declare, that all those which I ever have seen, do see, or ever shall see, do passe in my opinion, either for Innocent or Culpable against me: nor can I imag••ne any medium between these two.

Then Madam, according to your expression (said Intaphernes, and looked atten∣tively upon her) it seems I am at this present either innocent or culpable in your opi∣nion. You need not doubt it (replyed she hastily) since questionless you cannot doubt it unless you do me an injury. However Madam (replyed Intaphernes) I would gladly know whether you use to take all necessary care to be well informed of the in∣nocency or the Crimes of those you condemn or justifie? for truly Madam a very small circumstance may alter the case.

The truth is (said Berisa, and interrupted him) if Orcames did deceive me by way of mockery, certainly he deserveth my hate: but since I am perswaded, that he had a reason more advantageous to me for what he did, I shall be more willing to pardon his preventing my return so timely as I desired. I must needs confess Madam, that I could not choose but laugh when I heard Berisa say so, and could not choose but look upon Intaphernes as I laughed; so as the Princess of Bythinia observing it, shee was confirmed in her former opinion, and doubted not but that she her self was a cause of the trick which was put upon Berisa.

In the mean time since she was not well satisfied, what she should think of Inta∣phernes, she retired; but the difficulty was to be rid of Berisa; for since the Princess had told her, that she wanted her company, she could not shake her of; but was for∣ced to tell her that she would sleep, to make her go out of her Chamber. Yet she sleeped not so soone, for shee passed away a great part of the night in contriving how Intaphernes should continue his affection to her without speaking unto her of it, and without forcing her to change her behaviour towards him.

But, Madam, without particularizing the beginning and progress of Intaphernes his affection, give me leave to tell you, that his Services being seconded by the Salutati∣ons of Istrina, and supported by his own merits, the Princess of Bythinia was moved to let him love her: yet upon condition that he sbould alwaies submit his love unto her Fortutne; and that if it so happened, that Arsamones should dispose of her against her will, yet he should not accuse her of any injustice or infidelity, but endure the misfortune, with all the Patience he was capable of: But, Madam, sayd he one day unto her, may I not accuse you of Injustice, in desiring me to promise Imposibilities? Can you think a Lover who promiseth to renounce the enjoyment of his adored Mi∣stress, is able to keep his word? I do verily beleive he may, sayd she unto him, and it much concerns you that I do beleive it: and happen what can, I make no question but you will exactly keep yours.

This, Madam, was the condition of these four Illustrious Persons, who are the Sub∣jects of my History: who as you may very well perceive were not very happy: For Intaphernes and Atergatis could never make the two Princesses whom they loved, to promise them any thing, against that obedience which they owed unto those who had the disposing of them: but yet they enjoyed many happy hours when they had op∣portunities of talking freely with their adored Princesses. Tis true, these opportuni∣ties were not so oft as they desired; and Berisa did make them miss so many occasi∣ons of that happiness, as they hated her more then ever: The Princess of Bythinia also, for all her compliance with her, was in the end troubled with her; but yet she

would not banish her: And I was made choise of to contrive wayes of keeping her from going unto her so often. So that designing to serve two Princesses, in ridding them of a busie body who was extreamly troublesom to them; I carried the matter so, that upon a day, when Berisa was incensed against those two Princesses, for lea∣ving her behind when they went to take the Aire, as I engaged her to make her com∣plaints unto me, and to trust me with her very heart; she began to complain against them so sharply, as at first I thought they had done her the greatest wrong that could be offered to a person of her Quality. For she repeated all her obliging Ser∣vices to the Princess of Bythinia, aggravating her assiduity about her, to be as much obliging as a thousand Services. But after all her talk and complaints, I found the in∣jury to be only as I told you: Tis true, this walk being appointed in her presence, and considering how she had been formerly treated, it was an affront not to take her along with them: yet not to let slip such a favourable occasion; after she had dis∣gorged her stomack, and complained till she was weary with complaints, I began to murmure more then she against all Grandure, and against the Court in generall, pur∣posely that I might the better perswade her: Protesting that if ever I could get into my Country, I would for ever confine my self to that Province rather then I would indure the scorns and affronts of the Court. Afterwards making a thousand Protesta∣tions of friendship and esteem of her; I advised her to keep home, or at least to retire from such a tumultuous life as the life of a Courtier is: For truly, my dear Berisa (sayd I unto her) when one is not so happy as to be of a Quality fit for a Court, one ought not to be so forward: Alas Orcames (sayd she) I know but too well the truth of your words, but yet since I have seen so many Gallants, I cannot for beare going unto them: and I had rather be affronted with Courtiers, then be much made of by Townsmen, for (added she to bring me unto her mind) I beseech you, do but ob∣serve the difference betwixt them: would not any one say that sees them together, they were of severall Countries far distant? and though they speak the same Langu∣age, and as they think, the very same things, yet they express them in such a different manner, as what is gallantry in a Courtier is absurd in a Townsman: But Berisa, sayd I unto her, this rule is not generall; for I do know some men of the Town, that are very compleat men, however I am sure, replyed she, that if there be any exceptions, those who do deserve to be excepted, have gotten their merits in the world amongst Company: otherwise I cannot see how they should deserve it; Though I should grant it, replyed I, yet that is not sufficient to perswade me that one who is not a Courtier by birth ought to apply themselves unto it, unless Fortune do call them un∣to it by some extraordinary way: Indeed, were it not a fondnesse to hope that per∣sons of most high Quality should ever care for such Companions? one must owe them all things, and they be obliged by nothing: They love you only because they love themselves; and measuring their affections to you by the diversions which you afford them; as soon as your diversions faile, their loves will cease: Do you not by experience find, that how Princesses, who are the best of any in the world, do slight you? and since they have company enough, they will not carry you with them to take the Aire? Good Berisa, let not the Court deceive you, but undeceive your selfe, and shake it off, before it shake you off: It is but a habit, and may easily be left. Do you think that Provinces far off Courts have not wits and men of spirit in them? and can you think those wi••s and spirits are idle and weary? No no Berisa, it is not to be imagined; but be confident they think themselves as happy as you or any Courti∣er in the world: The laws of amity and friendship is regularly observed amongst per∣sons of their quality; there is as much complacency amongst them as amongst others & there being no Lords nor no slaves amongst them, they live much sweeter lives then you imagine. I pray then judg Berisa, what should you do at Court? Oh Orcames sayd she, I see you never use to make any visits into the Countrey, since you know no better how tedious and wearisom they are. For know Orcames, that all of them either talk not at all, or talk too much, or else talke scurvily: They have not only a pronunciation different from the Court, but their matter and manner of speaking doth also differ: Their gallantry is so grosse, that it is rather an impertinent piece of a talk which is insufferable; To hear them talk of love is enough to procure hatred; to hear them talk of Martiall matters, would move ones pitty of them: If they talk of news, they know so little of the world, and tell such unlikely stories, that they are

not worth the hearing; yet you advise me Orcames not to stir out of my own Quart∣ers: I must confesse, sayd I unto her, that I do advise you to it, because the vexati∣ons which follow the delights of the Court, are greater then the other, though it were so that no accomplished persons were there to be seen: For the truth is, as I have already told you, persons of high Quality care not a straw for their Inferiours: Their friendship a••mes only at themselves; they will give you a thousand welcomes to day, and hardly look upon you to morrow: they will promise more then ever they intend to perform; and their delicacy is such, that if you do not flatter them suffici∣ently, you do them wrong.

Believe mee Berisa, though there were no other consideration then this, to drive one out of all Court-fancies, that one must spend all their, dayes with people that are above one, unto whom they must hold a continuall complacence, and blind obedience, I think it were enough to move one unto my advice: Besides, matter of honour, which cannot endure to be slighted is considerable; for indeed Berisa, you know as well as my self that if a Town or Country-woman chance to love any Courtier, she exposeth her selfe to more talk then any other, since certainly it is a piece of injustice which reigns in the spirits of all men of that quality, & in Courts, to think that a Country Lady is more beholding to them for their services and visits then a Court Lady is.

Moreover, that's not the place where Country Ladies use to seek for Husbands, ei∣ther for themselves, their Daughters, their Sisters, or their Friends; and the truth is, there is nothing more odious then for a Country or Town Lady to be too much at Court.

Therefore Berisa, if you will be ruled by me, you shall erect a Court in your owne Chamber and attract all the gallants of Calcedonia which are reasonable, thither: the number of whom is not so small as you imagine. I do not advise you, said I, to be troubled with such men whom the name of Court affrights, and who have as great an aversion to Court as Court hath to them; but like some Creatures who live sometimes on Land, sometimes on water, make choise of such friends as are a Miscella∣ny, part Court, part Country, and pleasing in all. No no, Orcames, replyed she, you can never perswade me to it; for though I know, that what you say is partly true, yet I assure you I cannot change my opinion: Indeed (said she, and smiled) I am so farr from mewing my selfe in my own Family, that I professe, I care not if I never came at it, so I could but heare all in it were in health. Since you are of that mind said I, I will move you but unto one one thing more: so it be not to quit the Court, replyed Be∣risa, I will willingly follow your Councell.

Then (said I unto her) to oblige the Princess of Bythinia not to neglect you a∣gain, try if you can absent your self only for three or four dayes, and thereby force her to send for you: But suppose she should not send for me, replyed she, I should then be pittifully puzled how to return again to her; And therefore Orcames, I had rather follow my own inclination then your advice. Then follow it, said I, since I cannot cure you of this fond Court-humour; but if they should chance to slight another time, when they are going unto any diversions, blame not me for it.

After this, Madam, I left Berisa, and was very sorry that I had no better acquitted my selfe of my Commission to perswade her from haunting the Princess of Bythinia; For all I could say against the Court, did make such small impression upon her spirits, as she went unto the Princess that very same night, who received her civily enough: For, besides her naturall sweetness, there was another reason which obliged the Prin∣cess to tolerate her; which was, because the Father of Berisa, who was a very popular man in Calcedonia, had done Arsamones very considerable service: Thus not know∣ing how to be rid of this troublesom Creature, I was again made choice of by Inta∣phernes and Atergatis, to counterfeit Love unto her: And indeed Madam, though I did not love to dissemble my thoughts, but ever affected sincerity, yet I begun to make experiments upon Berisa, so that holding her continually in talke, I gave Inta∣phernes and Atergatis opportunities to talk often with the Princess of Bythinia, and the Princess Istrina.

Thus Madam, was the Winter spent: But the Spring bringing warre with it, it was resolved we must depart: I believe Madam I shall tell you no lye. If I tell you, that the adieu betwixt the Prince Intaphernes and the Princess of Bythinia, and between

Atergatis and Istrina, was much sadder then mine, and Berisa's; Yet the Princess of Bythinia had such a commanding power over her self, that her sorrows for the de∣parture of Intaphernes did not appear; But in exchange she shewed him so many Ci∣vilities, and expressed her self in such obliging language, that he could not possibly complain against her not grieving enough. And to tell you truly, he needed not to look any further then to the eyes of that Princess to see her heart, though much sor∣row did not appear in her face.

As for Atergatis, he was a little more happy then Intaphernes; for though I cannot perfectly say that Atergatis had any share in those tears which she shed for her Bro∣ther: yet I can assure that her manner of bidding him adieu was enough to perswade him that though he had no share in her tears, yet her sighs at parting were very deep, that he should go and expose himself to so many dangers.

But at the last Madam, we departed, and left Berisa with these two Princesses, un∣to whom she was more comfort during the absence of Intaphernes and Atergatis: I shall not need Madam, to particularize unto you all the passages of this War, know∣ing that you are not ignorant of them, I shall therefore only mark out the principall events. I shall tell you then Madam, that Arsamones was always prosperous, though he had to deale with one of the most valiant Princes in the world.

But to tell you truly, it is no wonder if he made use of all Advantages, for Arsa∣mones had all the necessary qualities to effect a great design: For he had not only a great wit, deep capacity, and grave experience: He had not only high courage, and lofty ambition, but he had also a kind of rash prudence (if I may phrase it so) which made him able to attempt the most difficult enterprizes, and which helped him to ex∣ecute them with as much success as boldness.

Moreover, the politique Arsamones did not confine himself to the ordinary limits of Justice; for I have heard him say, that all unjust means might be used to compasse a just design: And therefore striving to get upon the Throne of his Ancestors, I can assure you he employed all to bring it to pass.

Furthermore it cannot be imagined that he would omit any occasion to advance it: And so he carried the matter, that the King of Pontus, after severall Combats, where∣in Arsamones had alwayes the advantage, was constrained to retreat to Heraclea, which is the Metropolis of his Dominions, and the only Town that was left him in all his two Kingdoms.

During all these Victories, Intaphernes and Atergatis, whose reputations were ve∣ry high, did often write unto the Princesses whom they adored, for they had obtain∣ed permission so to do, upon condition that their Letters should contain only mat∣ter of News and Civility without any gallantry. You may well imagine Madam, that this restraint went against their minds; and that it was difficult to love so much, and not dare to speak of it. Yet this command was not disadvantageous to them; for both of them being admirable at their Pens, and since their Letters included nothing which was to be concealed: Those unto whom the Princesses shewed them, did so highly applaud them, as it may well be said, that they spoke in behalf of their Loves in not speaking of them.

However, since their passions were not satisfied, they invented a way to make their minds known without any disobedience unto the commands which they recei∣ved: For since Istrina had not prescribed unto the Prince her Brother what he should write, and had only forbidden Atergatis to mention any matters of Love: and since the Princess of Bythinia did not think of charging Intaphernes not to mention his pas∣sion in his Letters unto the Princess his Sister; these two Lovers resolved that Inta∣phernes to whom Istrina had prescribed any limits, should write unto her all his thoughts of the Bythinian Princess, and all those which Atergatis had of her: so that by this invention, these two Princesses might shew the Letters from their Lovers: and the Princess Istrina durst not shew hers from her Brother. She being a Lady of a most admirable wit, after she had received the first Letter, and shewed it unto the Princess of Bythinia, she answered it the most wittily in the world.

Alas Orcames (said Mandana, and interrupted him) I cannot endure to heare a Letter so much commended which cannot be produced: Therefore I intreat to try if you can remember the sense at least, though not the words of these two Letters: For your satisfaction Madam, replyed Orcames, I can do more then that; for I think

I have a Copy of them about me which I got from the Prince Intaphernes, who ha∣ving lost the Originall in coming hither, he complayned of it so exceedingly, that to comfort him, I resolved to confesse my crime in stealing that Copy, and let him have a Copy out of mine: And therefore Madam I am able to satisfie your desires; Then he looked in his Pocket, and found these two Letters, the first of which was thus indited.

INTAPHERNES UNTO The Princess ISTRINA.

Sister,

SInce I know you have enjoyned the Prince Atergatis to acquaint you with the News of the Armie: And since I am sure he will obey you as exactly as I shall the divine Prin∣cesse who hath imposed the like commands upon me. You need not thinke it strange if I doe not hint unto you the same things he doth: I leave it therefore to his care to acquaint you with the Enemies defeat, and victory of Arsamones, and reserve only unto my selfe to let you know the passages of my heart. Know therefore, dearest Sister, that my adored Princess does so wholly take up my memory, as I know not whether I should be so unjust as to forget you, if I did not need your assistance to keep her from forgetting me. For since she hath not forbidden you to speak to her of my passion, but hath forbidden me to write of it unto her, you may without offence protest unto her, that I can thinke of nothing else but her; that I do eternally adore her; that her absence is intollerable: and that her rigor in denying me so much satisfaction as to mention my love in my letter to her, doth put my life more in danger, then all the King of Pontus his valour. I beseech you, deny me not this request; for if you do, there shall not a Messenger come, by whom I will not give the Prince Atergatis so much satisfaction as to let you know, that he doth still and ever will most passionately love you: And that there is not a day on which we are not ready to quar∣rell, sometimes because he maintains that he loves you as well as I love the Princess of Bythinia: and sometimes because I will be always talking of her, when he would be always talking of you. The truth is (deare Sister) he is as melancholy to be at such a distance from her he loves, as I am for being from her whom I adore: speak then unto my Prin∣cesse in my behalfe, if you would not have me speake unto you in his: And perswade her if it be possible to let me write unto her what my heart thinks. But above all, deare Sister, be sure that this Letter do not passe for a piece of disobedience, and that neither Atergatis nor my selfe be declared Delinquents either to her or you: Adieu, and believe, I beseech you, that Intaphernes loves his dearest Sister, as well as an amorous heart can.

INTAPHERNES.

I Do confess, sayd the Princess Mandana, that I could not possibly believe, that a Brother could speak of Love unto a Sister, as he hath done to her, without some trespass upon handsomness: But Intaphernes hath done it so delicately, and hath dis∣obeyed a Command so respectively, that I long to see how the Princess Istrina did answer him. Orcames then presenting her Istrinas Letter, and taking Intaphernes his, she read these words.

ISTRINA Unto The Prince INTAPHERNES.

Brother,

I Need not tell you how the Letter surprized me, for I am perswaded you do not doubt it: Indeed, I found it full of Freindship, and full of Love; but to testifie to you, that I would not have you speak unto me, in behalfe of the Prince Atergatis, I do assure you that I will speak in your behalfe unto the Princesse of Bythinia, and indeed, already have done, yet you are not a jott the better, for shee thinks you culpable, as I do Atergatis, for disobeying. Tis true, I never did forbid you to speak unto me concerning your passion, nor his; but my reason was, I had no right to forbid you any thing, and I will keep within my compasse, and onely make use of my Prayers: But as I have spoken in your behalfe unto the Princesse of Bythinia, I conjure you to speak in my be∣halfe unto the Prince Atergatis, and tell him, that if I had as much power over him as you say I have, I will as absolutely forbid him to make you the speaker of his passion, as the Princesse of Bythinia forbids you by me, to make me the speaker of yours unto her; for the truth is, our Curiosity is onely to know what passages are in the Warrs, and not what passages are in your hearts; obey therefore, that Princesse, and cause Atergatis to obey me: And if it be possible, let neither of you manifest your passions by any vaine disobedience. Adue, and beleeve, I beseech you, that I will ever preserve as much amity for you, as any heart, not in Love, is capable of; and by that consequence Istrina is more affectionate unto the Prince Intaphernes then Intaphernes is unto

ISTRINA.

Really Orcames (sayd the Princesse Mandana, and returned Istrinas Letter) If people should alwayes write so wittily in matters of Love as these Persons do, it were almost to be wished, that they should write of nothing else; but that you may give me more subjects of commendations, I beseech you proceed in the relation of their Adventures.

Since you command me, Madam, I must obey, replyed Oreames, and tell you, That the Prince Intaphernes having received Istrinas Letter, he returned her answer, that he should make a doubt whether this was the Princesse of Bythinias command, unlesse she did attest and command it under her owne hand: And as for what related to Atergatis, he would not also positively beleeve what the Brother of his Saint did say, unless she also did confirm it under her hand: To be short Madam, he carryed the business so handsomly, that though these two Princesses were extream wary how they writt any such Letters, yet they both resolved to write two short Tickets of two lines, because they would write no more then might be seen. The Princess of Bythi∣nias Ticket contained these words, if my memory faile not.

I forbid the Prince Intaphernes to write any thing unto the Princesse Istrina but what I permit him to write unto my selfe; upon paine of her displeasure of whom hee speaks unto her, and upon promise of her savovr if he impose silence upon himself, and obey her.

This Madam, is the Ticket of the Bythinian Princess unto the Prince Intaphernes (pursued Orcames) and see, if I be not mistaken, how the Princes Istrinas was indited.

If you would have me believe that I have any power over you, cause the Prince Inta∣phernes to mention you no more in his Letters to me, since I desire to know nothing but what I have permitted your selfe to write; and unlesse you obey this second Command as you did my first, you have permission to mention nothing but the victories of Arsamones.

You may perceive Madam, that these two notes were not very obliging; and you see also they were very short, and contained only a bare command: Yet though Inta∣phernes and Atergatis had many excellent and large Letters from them, since these two Tickets were not sealed, subscribed, nor superscribed, they were much joyed at them, and set a dearer rate upon them then upon all the rest of their fine formal Let∣ters: Intaphernes preserved his with abundance of care, he did not keep it in the same place where all the rest of his Letters from the Princess of Bythinia were kept, but in a place more precious: For my part, having nothing so delicate a wit as he, nor could descant so subtlely upon passages of Love, I must confess I could not choose but wonder to observe that this ticket which contained only an angry Command, was preferred before all those fine Letters from the same hand, and which were filled with Civilities and Elogies of his valour, I asked him the reason of such an unreasonable act. Alas Orcames said he unto me, it seems you are a Novice in matters of Love, since you know not the difference between the best Letter that can be in ••••e world, which is to be shewed unto every one, and a small ticket which one is obliged to keep secret: but the difference is so great, as there is no comparison between them: Why Sir, said I unto him, can you prefer two or three lines from the Princess of Bythinia, before so many elegant Letters which you have received from her? And are these two or three lines which forbids you to mention any matters of love unto the Prin∣cess Istrina more deare unto you then all those sweet and obliging Letters which com∣mands you to write often unto her, and to send her the newes of the Army? Yes Or∣cames, replyed he, this little Ticket which contains but few words, which seems care∣lesly written, whose Characters are hardly legible; and which forbids me to speak of my passion, is a thousand thousand times more deare unto me, and more pleasing, then all her sweet Letters; wherein it appears she culled the words which she employ∣ed, whose Characters are so fine and legible, and which commands me to write of∣ten unto her: And if you did but know how to love, you would know how to distin∣guish between a Letter of indifferency, and a Letter of secresie; so that then I should not need to seek for any reasons to convince you. But Sir, I beseech you, said I unto him, are not all those fine Letters, and this scroule both written by the same hand: Yes Orcames said he, but they are not indited by the same mind; for when my Prin∣cess desires me obligingly to send her the news of the Army, she does me no greater a favour then she might unto any man of quality about Arsamones.

But when she forbids me to mention my passion, she tacitely implyes, that she hath a right to command me, she admits me to be her slave; she testifies that she knows I love her, and indeed gives me some signe of confidence, since she honours me so farre as to assure me, that I shall be happy in her favour if I can impose silence upon my selfe. Truth is Orcames, this rigid scrowl which seems to you lesse obliging then so many fine Letters which applaud me with so much eloquence, hath something in it more satisfactory to the heart of a Lover, then any thing those well pend Letters have which please you so well. The very name of my adored Princess which I cannot pro∣nounce without a tremb••ing of heart, does take something (as I think) from the ex∣cellency of those rare Letters; and this Ticket unto which she durst not subscribe, it has something in it which I am not able to express, that renders it the more valuable. For I am fully perswaded, that a Lady who endeavours to conceale both the writer and the party to whom she writes, hath some such sparks of tenderness in her thoug••••s as she would not have flashe out into a flame, and be known: And Orcames, since Love of its own nature loves mysteries and secresies, it may well be said, that what∣soever is not mysterious and secret, is not Love: And if you would precisely know the difference which I put between letters of Civility which I received from my Princess,

and this little scrowl I must tell you, that I put as great a difference as between letters from a friend, and a Letter from a Mistriss.

After this Madam, I left disputing with the Prince Intaphernes, knowing him to be better versed in the doctrine of Love then my self, and seeing I was not able to per∣swade him. In the mean time, since he knew the Princess of Bythinia's reservedness and severity, he must obey her, and enjoyn silence upon himself as well as Atergatis. Yet I am sure, that though the word Love was not used in their Letters, yet they found an art to use others which signified the same thing, yet without any disobedi∣ence unto the commands imposed upon them. But their greatest grief was, that the King of Pontus being retreated unto Heraclea, Arsamones resolved to besiege him, and began to draw that way, so that it was easie to foresee that it would be long be∣fore they should see their adored Princesses.

The reason why Arsamones was so hasty to besiege Heraclea notwithstanding the illnesse of the season, was, because knowing with what zeale the invincible Cyrus under the name of Artamenes did presse upon Babylon, he feared that if Baby∣lon were taken before he took Heraclea, Cyrus would then protect the same Prince whom he protected in relieving him at Sinope, so that he was so earnest upon this great design, as Heraclea in a few dayes was beleaguered. Since it imported Arsa∣mones to know how all passed at Babylon; and since Intaphernes, Atergatis, and I∣strina did hate the King of Assyria enough to be inquisitive of all the misfortunes that did befall him, all the victories of Cyrus were very well known in Calcedonia, and at the Camp: And Madam, your heroique resistance of the King of Assyria's violent passion was also known.

If Intaphernes and Atergatis had not been ingaged in their affections in Bythinia, they had then with joy revenged themselves of that unjust Prince, by following Ga∣dates, who had already took part with the Illustrious Cyrus: But since Intaphernes could not forsake Arsamones, as things stood, unlesse he should forsake the Princess his Daughter: he resolved to stay with him, since considering the Wars, he might do it with honour: And as for Atergatis, since if he changed Armies, he should be at a greater distance from Istrina, he chose rather to satisfie his love then his hatred. As for the Princess Istrina I have heard her say, that as oft as she was told with what noble resolution you treated the King of Assyria, it joyed her to the heart, to see such full revenge upon that Prince, both by your beauty Madam, by your rigour, and by the valour of Artamenes. It is true, her joyes were something moderated by her feares, least the siege of Heraclea should prove fatall either unto Intaphernes or A∣tergatis, whose courages she knew would expose them unto the greatest dangers up∣on all occasions. This feare in which the Princess of Bythinia shared with her, was not yet all the sorrow which she had; for the absence of the Prince her Brother, and the unfortunate condition of the Princess Araminta did cause her many an ill houre, for she loved that Princess exceedingly: But for all that, the glory which Intaphernes and Atergatis had got in the Wars, did much cheer up the hearts of these two Prin∣cesses, especially the glory which they got at the siege of Heraclea. Since the taking of this Town would be a decision of the Warr, and settle Arsamones in the Throne, this Prince was not negligent about it: And if I had not many things to tell you which are more essentially necessary to understand this story, certainly my relation of the particulars would make you acknowledg, that except the sieges of Babylon, Sardis, and Cumes, there was never any more famous then the siege of Heraclea, nor a siege where more glorious exploits were performed: Since there wanted only this City to make Arsamones King of two Kingdoms, he assaulted it with extraordinary vigour: And since if this City were lost, the King of Pontus would be without a Kingdom, he did defend it with such Heroique courage, as if he had an Enemy lesse valiant then Arsamones, he had not been vanquished: And he did such prodigious acts in defence of himselfe, as if he had uot sullied the glory of them by his violencies offered unto you Madam, he might well have been put into the Catalogue of Heroes. But that which hastned his ruine was some reports in the Camp that the illustrious Artamenes had taken Babylon, and that the King of Assyria had gotten you out, and carryed you unto Sinope: so that Arsamones falling upon the Town more vigorously then before, and being seconded by the valour of Intaphernes and Atergatis, he brought his works unto better perfection in eight dayes, then he had done ever since the siege

began: The truth is Madam, without further abusing your patience; The Gods ha∣ving resolved that the King of Pontus should be forced out, purposely to save your life, by preventing your being drowned, they made use of the valour of Intaphernes and Atergatis to vanquish this valiant and unfortunate King, who was forced to flye away in a ship, not knowing then, that the loss of his two Kingdoms should be the cause of his saving your life Madam, when you suffered shipwrack with Prince Ma∣zanes. You may imagine Madam, that the taking of Heraclea made a great noyse throughout all Bythinia, as well as at Pontus. But particularly, it rejoyced the two Princesses at Calcedonia, principally because they knew that Intaphernes and Ater∣gatis had a great share in the happy success of that siege: But that which hindered the full tide of their joyes was to understand, that the War was not yet finished, because Artanus was in Cabira, where he kept the Princess Araminta in his power: And Ar∣samones would not make any Conditions with him, unlesse hee would surrender the Town and the Princess Araminta into his power, and therefore his design was to be∣siege Cabira.

In the mean time, as soon as Arsamones had setled all in Heraclea, he would have the Queen Arbiana and the two Princes come thither to testifie unto his new Sub∣jects, that he would be King of Pontus, whereof Heraclea was the Metropolis, as well as King of Bythinia whereof Calcedonia was chief. You may easily imagine Madam, that this resolution was very welcom unto Intaphernes and Atergatis, as it was vexa∣tious to the poor Berisa, who seeeing that the Court was to remove from Calcedonia to Heraclea, she was even ready to dye for grief, not knowing how it was possible to live without a Court: And indeed we understood that every one went to comfort her, as one that had lost all she loved. Shee employed all her will to find a pre∣tence for going unto Heraclea, but her Parents would not permit her: so that she saw a necessity of staying in Calcedonia, where she talked of nothing but her weari∣ness of it: and if she made any visits, to satisfie her busie humour, it was only a gad∣ding from house to house to tell how weary she was: And she made her self so much hated in Calcedonia, that there was not a Lady who did not wish her at Heraclea.

But Madam, as the design of Arsamones in bringing the Queen Arbiana unto this stately Town was pleasing unto Intaphernes and Atergatis, so I must tell you that it was not displeasing unto the Princess of Bythinia, nor to the Princess Istrina. Yet I am obliged to tell you unto the glory of the Princess of Bythinia, that maugre all the victories of Arsamones, she could not choose but sigh as she went into the Palace of Heraclea, not being able to remember the Condition wherein she had seen the Prince Sinnessis, the Princesse Araminta, and Spitridates, without much sorrow for the death of the first, and for the captivity of the Princess Araminta, and for the absence of the Prince Spitridates her brother. Also her generosity did carry her fur∣ther then this; for she would not upon any terms lie in the Princess of Pontus her Chamber: Since I remember very well (said she unto the Queen Arbiana who pro∣pounded it unto her) if the Princess Araminta did ever look npon me as the Prin∣cess of Bythinia, when there was not any hopes of the King my Fathers ever being upon the Throne: I will also still treat her as the Princess of Pontus, although the King her Brother do not enjoy the Kingdom; You may well conceive Madam, that a Princesse who was so generous as to be just unto a distressed vertue, would not be un∣just unto a victorious and triumphant vertue, and that she received the Prince Inta∣phernes with all possible civility.

Atergatis found as favourable a reception from Istrina: And since these Princesses had not forbidden them to speak, as they had to write, These two Princes took occa∣sion to speak of that they would, and had not written; and to make known unto their Princesses all the torments they had suffered during their absence: But yet they were not long together; for Arsamones being desirous to finish the Warre by taking Cabira, desired them to come unto the Army; but since the distance was not farre from Heraclea, there was such continuall correspondency between them, that this second absence was not so rigorous as the first: yet Arsamones could not march so soon as he desired against Artanus, because he fell sick. But Madam, I think it fit to omit the relation of the Prince Spitridates his arrivall at Heraclea, and all the passa∣ges concerning the defeat of Artanus: Since it is not possible but the Princess Ara∣minta who was so long a Prisoner unto Cyrus, and since the Prince Spitridates was a

while in Sardis, you must needs heare tell since you were released, the adventures of a Prince who hath the honour to resemble your illustrious Liberator.

The truth is, replyed Mandana, I understand by Martesia who had it from Fe∣raulas, all that happen'd unto that illustrious Prince: and consequently I know of his Arrivall at Heraclea, the day before the Queen Arbiana and the two Princesses were to go unto the Camp, because Arsamones was sick: Moreover, I know how the Queen of Bythinia took Spitridates at first for Cyrus, as heretofore she took Cy∣rus for Spitridates: Nor am I ignorant of all that Princes endeavours to obtain the permission of Arsamones to love Araminta: Neither am I ignorant of what Intapher∣nes and the Princess of Bythinia did upon the same design: For indeed Orcames, I know how obstinately Arsamones denyed them; I know all the defeat of Artanus, the meeting of Spitridates and Araminta upon the bridg of Cabira. The generous reso∣lution of those two Persons, and in what manner Spitridates got Araminta out of that besieged Town, stealing her from the victory of Arsamones, who would have kept her Prisoner, if he had taken her. I know also how Spitridates went with that Princess as far as Armenia, where they parted: and that in parting from the Camp, he wrote unto the King his Father, and unto the Princess his Sister: but I wonder, that in relation of all these passages, I should never heare any mention made of A∣tergatis.

The reason why those who related the history of Araminta were silent of the Prince Atergatis, replyed Orcames, is, because he had no hand in the defeat of Artanus, not in any passages at Cabira; because the very day on which the Princesses came to the Camp, he fell sick at Heraclea, where he remained untill after the departure of Spitridates and Araminta, so that he could not contract any amity with that Prince as Intaphernes did; nor by consequence give those who related unto you the story of Araminta and Spitridates, any subject to speak of him. Now Madam, since you know all passages unto the taking of Cabira, I shall say nothing of them, but shall re∣late things from thence forward, and tell you that Arsamones was so incensed at the action of Spitridates, that he said he should not succeed him, and that he would have every one look upon the Princess his Daughter, as she that was to be Queen of Pon∣tus and Bythinia: And the truth is Madam, he was so violently earnest in it, that e∣very one did believe it was his intention: But though it was the design of Arsamones, yet it was farre from the intentions of the Princess his Daughter, who declared her self so highly and so genevously, that she would never thrive by the misfortunes of the Prince her brother, as Arsamones was no lesse incensed against her then him; so that Intaphernes was constrayned to grieve with that Princess, for offering her two Kingdoms. It is true, that his love had its part in this griefe: For this Prince concei∣ved, that as long as Arsamones was in the mind, he could never pretend unto the Princess whom he loved, it being easie to foresee that Arsamones would never give her unto him, though upon no other reason then because he was a professed lover of Spitridates.

But as Intaphernes had this augmentation of his sorrows, so Atergatis who was re∣covered of his sickness, was grieved to understand that Gadates who was not igno∣rant of his affection unto Istrina, had sent orders unto a Lady who was with her, to have a strict eye over all his actions, and to render him an account of them; this Prince having still a fancy, that when Cyrus had ended the Warr, he might perhaps by a treaty of Peace oblige the King of Assyria to marry Istrina, by obtaining for him a restitution of some part of his Kingdom; for Madam, though this fancy had but an ill foundation, yet he did, and still doth feed himself with some hopes in it: And in∣deed, because the Queen Nitocris with whom he had been in love, did earnestly de∣sire it as long as she lived, he thought that he was obliged by his respects unto that great Princess, not to let Istrina marry, as long as there was any possibility that the King of Assyria might marry her.

After this Madam, you may imagine that the lives of the Prince Intaphernes and A∣tergatis were not very pleasing, since to live without hopes is the most difficult thing upon earth: Yet I am sure, that if they did not hope, yet they were not altogether desperate, yet they were perpetually full of fears: And all the consolation which they had, was to know that they were not out of favour with the Princesses whom they adored.

As for Intaphernes, he was so happy as that the King did never suspect his Love: so that he could see and talk with his Princess when he pleased. But all great changes in Kingdoms must needs be a while unsetled, so there were many commotions and stirrs, which required he should divide his Army into two Bodies, and that Intapher∣nes and Atergatis should command them. Arsamones residing sometimes at Heraclea, and somtimes at Calcedonia, to give out several orders to places as need required. Thus Madam, did these two Princes and these two Princesses live, whilst the illustrious Cyrus (after he understood you were not dead as once he believed) was carrying on the Warr in Armenia, thinking that you were there: And thus they continued, untill that generous Prince being upon the Frontiers of Lydia, there chanced that thing, which I believe you are not ignorant of, but yet you neither know the cause nor the consequence of it. I must therefore tell you Madam, that when the valiant Anaxa∣ris who is now the Captain of the Guard, came to the Camp of Cyrus. I understood how he had told him that he had saved the life of the Prince Spitridates; and that he was at first deceived by that resemblance which is between those two great Princes.

But Madam, certainly you do not know who brought Spitridates into that Pa∣phlagoneon wood where Anaxaris found him, nor who kept him there; nor how he went from the place unto which Anaxaris conducted him, after he had so valiantly defended him. Therefore I must tell you, that when Araminta would needs have Spitridates leave her in Armenia, and commanded him to wander from Countrey to Countrey untill the Gods were pleased to change the state of their Fortunes; yet Spi∣tridates could not find a heart to go out of Armenia, since Araminta was in it though she had charged him not to stay there, because she feared lest the King her Brother should arrest him; and because she would not have a Prince who had kept her from the power of the King his Father, should fall into the power of the King of Pontus, who did not love him. So that Spitridates searching for a place where he might have best intelligence from Artaxates, whilst the Princess Araminta was there; he thought that he could not better seate himself, then in some house upon the River Araxes, which runs to Artaxates: For as great Rivers causeth great commerce between great Towns, so he thought this place to sute best with his design; and indeed the Village where he stayed was so great a Passe, as it was easie to receive information of some things which he desired to know.

But Madam, as all humane Prudence is extreamly limited; so it chanced that the same way he thought best to heare news of his Princess, and to keep him neare her, the same was it which set him at a greater distance from her. For Madam, as he was one evening taking the Ayre upon the banks of the River Araxes by himself a∣lone, and being far from the house where he lodged, a stranger did accost him, and speaking to him in a broken Language, he spoke as thinking him to be Artamenes, and as if he had seen him in the Court of Thomiris. Spitridates perceiving his errour, would undeceive him, but he could not: For this stranger was so confident that this Prince would only conceal himself, as he never offered to examine seriously whether or no his eyes had deceived him: and indeed not giving any credit unto his words, he executed his design which he had upon the person of that Prince, and did it with ease: For since Spitridates was alone and without any Armes; and since this stranger was seconded by ten men, which lay in ambush, it was easie for them to force him to en∣ter into a Barque which was not far off: and it was the more easie, because the stran∣ger having told him that he would carry him unto a great Queen, where he should receive no harm, provided he would repent himselfe of his flight, Spitridates thought it would be the more easie to undeceive him by arguing with him, then by defending himself in vain, since he was alone, unarmed, and against ten men, thinking that if he should offer to make any obstinate resistance, it would the more argue him to be the man he was taken for. So that going into the Barque, and not being able to hinder the sixe Rowers from putting off the shoar where he intended to stay a while, he began to make a thousand protestations unto this stranger, that he was not the same man which he took him for: but all in vain.

I beseech you sayd, Spitridates unto him, ask every one you meet what Reports go of Artamenes whose name is so famous, and I am sure all will answer you, that he can∣not be in Paphlagonia. I need not enquire of any, replyed the man, when my own eyes tel's me I am sure: therfore, Sir, with no murmur against my violence, I beseech

you give me leave to carry you unto a Queen whose Subject I am, and beleive it, it shall be long of your self if you be not favourably received. I came by orders from her, pursued he, to inform my self of the causes of your Imprisonment (the News wherof hath reached the Queen Thomiris) to let you know, that if you will change your thoughts of her, she will march with an Army of a hundred thousand men to force you out of Ciaxares his Fetters, and set you out of a Prison upon a Throne.

In order to this, the Queen Thomiris hath given me wherwith to suborn your Guards, and to attempt any thing for your Liberty, but I perceive, Sir, you have your self procured it. Then Spitridates protested unto him again, that he was not Artamenes, but that he was still a Prisoner unto Ciaxares, but the man would not beleive him, and was so obstinate in his mistake, that Spitridates must submit. The reason why this man was so hard to be undeceived, was, that though he had seen the Illustrious Cyrus a hundred times with Thomiris, yet as he told him, he never heard him speak: so that the tone of Spitridates would not undeceive him, though there was some difference between the pronunciation of Spitridates, and that of Cyrus: Yet Spitridates did not a little wonder that he should still be taken for another; for since he did not then know that Cyrus and Artamenes were both one Person, he could not chuse but think it strange, that first they should carry him unto Cambises as being Cyrus, and now carry him unto Thomiris as being Artamenes; yet go he must, for he was so stricktly guarded that he could not chuse: But (sayd he unto the man who thus forced him) It does not appear unto me by your speeches that Thomiris ever appointed you to do as you have done: since, Sir, replyed he, she could not foresee, I should find you in such a condition as I have done; she could not command me to secure your Person with ten men only: but since she honoured me so far as to tell me that she would arm a hundred thousand men to have you in her power, it was an im∣plicite Command to bring you unto it, if I could by all the wayes that Fortune and opportuniry should offer me. Also I have been this eight dayes since accidentally I saw you in the Temple, in following you and waiting for an occasion to find you a∣lone, as now I found you upon the Banks of Araxes.

Thus, Madam, did this man speak unto this Illustrious Captive whom he knew not, & for his more safe Convoy, he would have him alwayes lye in the Barque, and not set foot upon land, untill he came to the place where Araxes bounders the Country of the Massagettes. He was no sooner there but the man carrying Spitridates to lodge with a man of his acquaintance, which had a very good Tent upon the banks of that River, he sent one of his men to acquaint Thomiris that he had brought Artamenes unto her and to know her pleasure concerning him, not daring to bring him to her without having speciall orders for it. But whilst this Messenger was in his jonrny, Spitridates observing that the Master of the Tent where he lodged was of a good wit, and that he understood broken Greek passably enough, which is so generally spoken over all A∣sia, because contrary to the custom of the Massagettes, he had been a Traveller, he asked him concerning the Queen, and what they sayd of her? Sir, sayd he, the Queen is a most excellent Princess, and if her Passions were somwhat less violent, she would be all Excellency and all Virtue; but indeed they are so predominate in her, that Rea∣son often will not rule her; For if either Ambition, Choller, or Envie possess her, she humours the Passion without resistance. Indeed her Action against the Prince A∣riantes her Brother, to Raign in prejudice of him; her Action against the Prince Ari∣pithes who was long since in love with her, and her Actions concerning the Ambassa∣dor from Ciaxares who stole from Court, and is called Artamenes: All these do make it manifestly appear that she has no command over her Passions, and that Am∣bition, Anger, and Love do easily get dominion over her heart, and raign there in full Tyranny; And indeed the voice is, that this Princess will raise a very formidable Army, either to be revenged upon Artamenes, or else to make him love her: as if it were as great a matter to conquer the heart of this Ambassador as to conquer a Kingdom. I know that Fame speaks this Artamenes to be a most admirable man, and that if the Massagettans had such a King, they might pretend easily to be Masters of both Scy∣thias: But for all that, since the Queen hath a Son, and since Artamenes did steal a∣way from the Court, I beleive the War would be unjust, and the Event cannot be happy.

Spitridates hearing this man express himself so wisely, resolved to open himself un∣to

him, to try if he could procure his help to make an escape: So that whilst all his Guards stood at the Entry of the Tent, which was very spacious, he told him how the case stood. But, Madam, such was the Fate of Spitridates to be taken for Cyrus, that though this man had never seen either of them, yet he beleived that he who spoke un∣to him was Artamenes: For, Sir, sayd he unto him, if you be not he, you need not fear being Arested by Thomiris, since you may be sure that as soon as ever she sees you, she will set you at liberty, therfore, Sir, I need not endeavour your escape: But I fear, answered Spitridates, I fear least the Queen should be mistaken in me, as the man who first arested me is; However it be, Sir, replyed the man, your best course to make me endeavour your escape, is to confess ingeniously that you are really Arta∣menes: for if you be, I must confes unto you, that I am so devoted unto the Queens glo∣ry, as I am apt enough to take an occasion from her of doing a thing which would re∣flect upon her honour, if she should retain you Prisoner. The truth is, Madam, since Spitridates had no other course, he deceived this virtuous Massagettan, since he desired to be deceived; And indeed the man did so wel manage the matter, as he got Spitridates one night out of his Tent, by a back-way which his Guards knew not of; and to make his flight more safe, he would not let him attempt to cross the River, which was very broad and deep, since there was not one Fisher-man whom he durst trust. Therfore he conveyed him into a poor Shepheards Tent which belonged unto him, where he lay hid above eight dayes. In the mean time he heard how greived the man was who first took him: how joyed Thomiris was, when she heard that she was to have Ar∣tamenes in her power, and how vexed she was when she was told he was escaped. Her greif, Madam, was so great, that setting all consideration aside, she went her self to the River Araxes to search for Artamenes in all the Tents about it: So that Spitri∣dates knowing how the Queen and all her Retinue was to come unto the place where he was, and fearing that his resemblance with Artamenes would betray him to her as it had done to many others; also longing to hear some news of Araminta, he resol∣ved by the help of his deliverer to suborn a Fisher-man, and so they did in all hast. But though they resolved that his flight should be in the night, yet they could not stay so long, but he must depart presently, because they had intelligence that Thomiris was very neer. So that hastning their design, the Fisher-man was presently provided, and Spitridates went into the Bark with a horse which his honest Host gave him: and he took boat just as Thomiris who was that day on horseback was in sight, and followed with abundance of company some two hundred paces from the place where Spitri∣dates was embarked. At first, the Fisher-man who was busie about his Ba••k, took no notice of them, but rowed as hard as he could: yet when he was as far as the middle of the River, he spyed the crowd of people which followed the Queen, and thought it was the Princess who was expected to come: So that being much frighted at it, in lieu of rowing on, he would carry Spitridates back to the place where he first took him in: but that Prince having got a good Cimiter before he embarqued, did draw it, and threatned the man to kill him if he did not row on and carry him quickly to the other side of the River: So that being extreamly terrified, he rowed with all the strength he had, and got from the side where Thomiris was. But, Madam to make this adventure more extraordinary: The Queen chancing to cast her eyes upon the boat wherin Spitridates was when he drew his Cimiter, she was so surprized, and had her i∣magination so filled with the fancy of Artamenes, as she did absolutely take Spitri∣dates to be him, imagining him to have the same stature and action, and fancying that she saw the very same features of face though at that distance: So that her Spi∣rits being all Choller and fury, when she saw how this supposed Artamenes threatned the Fisher-man to kill him, if he did not carry him from her: she both did and sayd such things as did not become her great Courage and Virtue. Could this ungratefull man know (sayd she aloud) that I intended to arme a hundred thousand men purposely for his delivery, and can he threaten a poor Innocent to kill him, rather then see me? Canst thou endure this Thomiris? Canst thou suffer it? Fy, no, no, it cannot be endured, it is too much baseness to be suffered. Then would she give a hundred seve∣rall and different Commands; one while she commanded to get a boat to go after him, another while being transported with the violence of her Passion, she would go herself, another while fearing that a boat could not be had soon enough to overtake him whom she took for Artamenes; she commanded her Guard to shoot a Cloud of

Arrows at the Fisher-man, to make him stay the Bark, not considering that she was out of distance for it: then in an instant after fearing they might kill Artamenes in lieu of the Fisher-man, she for bad what before she commanded, and chose rather to let Artamenes live then to be revenged by his death: And all her thoughts were in such a tumultuous disorder, as I am perswaded that she herself knew not what they were.

In the mean time, since those that went after this supposed Artamenes, not being able to overtake him, it vexed her to see him in the boat, to see him land, to see him take horse, and at last to loose the sight of him. This adventure did so much incense her, that he who helped Spitridates to escape, was forced to provide for his own safe∣ty, because there was some suspition of the truth: so that he followed Spitridates, and afterwards meeting with him at Colchides, he acquainted him with all these passages, and how Thomiris employed severall men to pursue him, and how the Queen was so extreamly greived at this adventure as she fell in a sickness, as all Physitians did say it would be long before she recovered. Spitridates being so fortunate as to meet acci∣dentally with his Page, he was well able to recompence his deliverer, if he had been of an humour to enrich himself. But this virtuous Massagettan being declared Enemy unto all Riches, was contented to sacrifice his Fortunes unto the Queens Glory, and refused the offers of Spitridates which was very considerable, for he had great abun∣dance of Jewels in the hands of that faithfull Page. Yet this generous Massagettan would not receive any gift, telling Spitridates that he was very well contented to a∣dore the Sun which produced all those Excellencies without enriching himself by any of those glorious Productions.

In the mean while, Spitridates thought upon nothing so much as Araminta, and en∣quired of her as much as he could, but meeting with nothing but uncertainties, he imbarked on the Euxine Sea, intending for Paphlagonia, where he hoped for more certain intelligence: As for his Page, he knew nothing but common talk went she was not at Artaxates, nor the King of Pontus neither: but that on the contrary you, Madam, was there, and that Ciaxares brought the War thither, under the Command of the Illustrious Artamenes, who was known to be Cyrus.

Spitridates then being imbarked in a Merchants Ship, was so unfortunate in his Na∣vigation, and had the winds so contrary, that after the Tempest had tossed him from Point to Point, and side to side, not being able to land any where, he was at last dri∣ven to the Meotidan Lake, where he suffered Shipwrack, and that in such a sad man∣ner, as the Ship, the Merchandize, all the men, except himself and five or six more did lamentably perish. This sad Accident had not grieved Spitridates so much, if it had hapned upon the Coasts of Capadocia, or any place where he might inquire of A∣raminta: but being cast upon a place so far distant from the place where his business lay, it grieved him extreamly: Not that the Euxine Sea was so vast but that it might be passed over in few dayes with a favourable wind. But it was not so easie a matter for him to do it, being without Ship, without acquaintance, and also without his Je∣wels, since his Page perished, and with him, all he had.

Moreover since all Asia was in Armes, Comerce failed, and the Inhabitants upon the Meotidan Lake, sent out no Ships; Insomuch that the unfortunate Spitridates was forced to go by Land unto the place where he intended, having only as many Jewels as would buy him a horse and bear his charges alone without any train. But, Madam, the way was so long, and he met with so many rubs in it, that when he got into Paphlagonia, the Armenian War was ended: Tis very true, as you know, Ma∣dam, very well, that it did not continue long: but the Illustrious Cyrus was upon the Frontiers of Lidia, when Spitridates after so long and tedious Journy, arrived in Paphlagonia: But when to his misery, he heard by the publick voge of the people (who seldom know, or talk any other thing but untruths, especially in State matters.) When he understood (I say) that for a conclusion of the publick Peace, the King of Pontus was to marry you, Madam, and that the Illustrious Cyrus was to marry Ara∣minta; at first, he gave no credit unto it, but afterwards meeting with a Souldier who was returning into his own Country enriched with Plunder, which he had got in the Armenian War, he understood by him how civill the Illustrious Cyrus was unto that Princess: so that though this Souldier did not tell him that you, Madam, were to marry the King of Pontus, nor that Cyrus was to marry Araminta, yet he did both be∣leive

what this Souldier sayd, and what the Paphlagonian people sayd also: so that sorrows seising upon all his faculties, one could not be in a more miserable conditi∣on then he was. His adventure upon the River Araxes was an addition to his mise∣ry; For sayd he, since the greatest Queen in the world was not able to resist the Charmes of Cyrus, though then she did know him to be the Son of a King, and since she loved him without being loved, how should Araminta resist her? since the Conqueror of all Asia is submissive at her feet. After this, Madam, as Lovers do al∣wayes think that none can look upon the persons they love, but must love them also; So Spitridates was so unjust as to doubt the fidelity of Cyrus: so that his Soul being full of intollerable Torments, there was no violent Resolution which he had not a mind to execute. One while he would go unto the Army of Cyrus, and ask him in the midst of all his Troops, whether he were his Rivall; and another while, he would go unto Araminta herself, and know from her own mouth, whether she were culpa∣ble or innocent: but his greatest care was to pass unknown through the Army of Cy∣rus, by reason of his prodigious resemblance.

As he was in all these uncertainties and restless thoughts, he accidentally met with a man of Quality called Democlides, whom he left with the Princess Araminta, when he parted from her in Armenia; and when that Prince sent to enquire of the King her Brother, when she was kept a Prisoner at Artaxates.

This meeting was a great consolation to him; but the worst was, Democlides pitty∣ing to see so great a Prince in such a miserable condition, would needs perswade him to return unto the King his Father: And the more to induce him unto it, he seemed to beleeve some truth in these reports, though really he gave no credit at all unto them: And further, Democlides thought it expedient to acquaint the Princess of By∣thinia with the place where the Prince her Brother was, to the end she might advise upon the best expedients to render him lesse miserable: And he had a fitter occasion for it then he thought of: For since Spitridates was in a condition to attempt any thing, he resolved to send secretly unto the Princess his Sister, to put him into some equipage, either to perform his resolution of going into the Army of Cyrus, or to take the part of the Lydian King, if he found any certainties of Cyrus his being a Ri∣vall: But yet he would not upon any terms let the Princess of Bythinia know the place where he was, and therefore he expresly charged the servant of Democlides whom he sent unto her, to acquaint her: But Democrites writing unto her from himselfe, did intimate the truth of all things in his Letter.

In the mean time, Spitridates and Democlides remained in their Lodgings, which was in a Village not far from a Forrest, where they used ••o walk and take the Ayre every day in expectation of his return whom they had sent unto the Princess: For since there is only a Nook of Galatia betwixt Paphlagonia and Bythinia where Arsa∣mones was, his journey was not long. But Madam, not to repeat what you know al∣ready; one day, as they were walking in the Forrest they were set upon by certain Robbers, and were rescued by the valiant Anaxanis, who left Spitridates much woun∣ded, not knowing who he was; for Democlides whom Anaxaris took to be the servant of Spitridates, would not tell him.

On the other side, the servant of Democlides coming unto a Chalcedonian Port, he was there stopped to know who he was, from whence he came, and whether he was going; for Madam, you must know, that though Arsamones was quiet enough in his Dominions, yet he was as wary as if he feared every thing: holding this maxime that a conquering Prince ought not alwayes to trust unto the fidelity of new Subjects: so that a Guard was kept at Chalcedonia, as strictly as in times of War. So that the ser∣vant of Democlides having answered something suspitiously, and being upon exami∣nation trapped, he was stayed to be farther examined: But what needed further? An Officer belonging to Arsamones knew him to be the servant of Democlides, who was well known to go from Cabyria with Spitridates, and thought that happily he knew where he was, and therefore he would advertise Arsamones of it: And brought this man before him, who did so terrifie this more weake then wicked wretch, as he gave them the letter of Spitridates unto the Princess his Sister, and likewise Democli∣des to the same Princess; so that knowing by this last Letter where Spitridates was, he was committed unto close Guard, keeping the business close from every one but such as were to execute his intended course, so as no 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of it was in all the Court.

In the mean while, Arsamones made choise of a faithfull fellow, and gave him twenty for his guard, to go unto the place where Spitridates was, giving him also the servant of Democlides with orders notwithstanding to guard him safely least he should escape and acquaint his Master. But to the end that his commands of securing the person of Spitridates might be more punctually executed, he told the man who was to execute this great design, that he did not desire to have Spitridates in his power, but only to force happinesse upon him: so that this man, thinking that his transacti∣on was as well for the good of Spitridates as Arsamones, did protest unto him, that he would not hearken unto any Prayers, Promises, or Threats, which the Prince his Son should make, but would infallibly bring him. After this, Arsamones commanded him that when he did bring the Prince his Son, not to enter into any Town, but to stay a dayes journy from Heraclea, and give notice how all things stood. But, Ma∣dam, without more particulars, be pleased to know, that this man came to the place where Spitridates was, and seized upon him, which was easie to be done; for he found him in bed, not cured of his wounds, though out of all danger. Moreover the place was far from Towns; And since the Prince of Paphlagonia was then in the Army of Cyrus, Spitridates knew not of whom he should ask protection? But to make the matter more easie, Democlides being perswaded that this Prince would not be so mi∣serable in his own Country as where he was, and advised him to submit unto the force without murmure against the King his Father, since he was not able to resist: Yet Spitridates did not yeild before he had employed all his rhetorick to perswade the man to let him go at liberty: but at last seeing he could not move him, neither by hopes of recompence, nor by any threats, he resolved to go along with him, not being able to resist twenty men, who at first disarmed both him and Democlides, since Spitridates was very weak, they were forced to put him into a Coach: so, as though this Prince was as violent as any that ever loved, yet it was an easie matter to carry him. And he came within a dayes journy of Heraclea without any obstacle: And the man who commanded the Guard sent to acquaint Arsamones with what he had done: So that this violent Prince commanded him to bring Spitridates unto Heraclea in the night time, least the people should grumble, and sent more Souldiers that way Spitridates was to come, that his Guard might be the stronger; And the business was dispatched with so much secresie, that no reports of it were spread abroad: But since the Policy of Arsamones was somthing severe to punish many, least all should become Delin∣quents: Prisoners were so ordinary, that it was no wonder to hear talk that some were brought in the night into Heraclea. In somuch that the Princess Intaphernes and Atergatis knew nothing of Spitridates his imprisonment, no more then the Princess of Bythinia or the Princess Istrina: For indeed, Madam, the Prince Spitridates was put into a Tower by the Sea-side, with a strong Guard; and Democlides was also his Companion, though he did earnestly perswade him to go unto Heraclea without re∣sistance.

In the mean time, Arsamones commanded that this Prince should be very carefully looked unto: but so very few did see him, and those that did were so faithfull to the King of Bythinia, that for some dayes Spitridates was never thought of. But Arsa∣mones going one morning to this Tower where Spitridates was, and not returning of two hours after, did move some suspition of some extraordinary Prisoners; for he re∣turned out with so many signs of fury in his face, as those who waited upon him at the foot of the Tower, did easily observe it and divulge it, so as it was conjectured, that these Prisoners were some of great importance, but they knew no more: And Ater∣gatis and Istrina did not know how much they were concern'd in the Conference be∣tween Arsamones and Spitridates: For, Madam, be pleased to know, that Arsamones did not only move Spitridates to cast of all thoughts of the Princess Araminta, but propounded a marriage with Istrina, not doubting but that Princess would willingly be Queen of two Kingdoms, and cast off Atergatis, whom he knew Gadates would not have her to marry. But since nothing could shake the affection of Spitridates unto Araminta, he rejected the Proposition which Arsamones made. How Spitridates (sayd Arsamones) can you be so foolish as to renounce the two Kingdoms of Pontus and Bythinia which I have Conquered, rather then renounce the Daughter of a Usurper, and the Sister of a Prince who hates you, and would heretofore have Araminta pre∣ferred Pharnaces before you? Consider Spitridates, consider seriously what the va∣lue

of two Kingdoms, which now you may either gain or loose, by obeying or diso∣beying me. I have tossed and toyled above this twenty years to set you upon a Throne; It hath cost the life of the Prince your Brother, and twenty thousand more who have all perished to break those Chains which fettered you, and to set the Crown upon yout head: And will you rather love a Slave, and be a Slave your self then en∣joy the fruits of all my Victories? For to think, that I will ever suffer Araminta to be Queen of Pontus and Bythinia, is a thing which I hate to hear of: For besides my resentments of hatred, revenge, and glory also, which will not let me consent unto it; even Policy only will not allow me to give a new title unto my Enemies, by this alli∣ance. I know very well that Araminta is fair, witty, of much Spirit and Virtue, but since she is Daughter and Sister to my Enemies and Ruinors of my house: you must Spi∣tridates either think no more upon her, or else think your self my Enemy; She whom I motion unto you is as fair and virtuous as Araminta can be. Moreover, she is the Daughter and Sister of a Prince who wisheth my Glory and Sister unto another, who hath helped me to that Throne upon which I would set you: Yet all these powerfull arguments could not stagger the constancy of Spitridates: and as I told you before, he rejected the motion of Arsamones with incredible resolution though his mind at that time was much incensed against Araminta. However Arsamones did not quite dispair of changing his mind, but resolved upon three things. The first to acquaint that Prince with the meeting of Araminta and the King of Pontus by the permittance of Cyrus. The second, to acquaint him with all those reports of Cyrus his love to Ara∣minta, thongh he knew them to be all false: And the third, that when he had enfused jealous apprehensions into his fancy, to acquaint the Queen Arbiana with the impri∣sonment of Spitridates, that she might go to see him, and carry Istrina with her, ho∣ping that the beauty of the Princess would sooner change his thoughts from Aramin∣ta, then all his perswasions and policy. And indeed, Madam, in order to these Reso∣lutions, he did infuse such jealous apprehensions into the heart of Spitridates, as this Prince could not enjoy one minutes rest, and his Soul was so sunck in sorrows, that having found a way how to write to the Prince Araminta, he would not make use of that way to let the Princess her Sister know of his imprisonment.

But as the first design of Arsamones did hit, so his second did not; as I shall pre∣sently tell you. However, since the day that Arsamones was with Spitridates, he came out from him much moved, every one was inquisitive of the true cause, but could not find it out: Yet at last Arsamones hearing that Spitridates was much dis∣quieted, and knowing by some of the Guard that he made continuall complaints a∣gainst the Princess Araminta when he talked with Democlides, he thought it time to let him see the Princess Istrina: So that acquainting Arbiana with the imprisonment of the Prince her Son, he permitted her to see him, and to carry with her the Princess her Daughter and Istrina, upon the condition, that they use all their endeavours to disswade him from his obstinate thoughts of marrying Araminta. But he did not ac∣quaint them with the proposition he had made unto Spitridates concerning Istrina. Since Arsamones was terrible unto all that knew him; Arbiana and both the Princesess did promise what he desired, purposely to see this illustrious Prisoner; so that they were conducted thither the same day. You may easily think, Madam, that Arbiana and the Princess her Daughter, could not see Spitridates in Prison without extream sorrow: And on the other side, that Prince could not see them without some conso∣lation, though his heart was full of grief. As for Istrina, it did exceedingly pitty her heart to see this Prince in that condition: But for his part, though he did much esteem her when he last saw her at Heraclea before he went to Cyrus, yet he was very sor∣ry to see her now, because he thought she was acquainted with the motion of Arsa∣mones, and did interpret all her obliging expressions as a premeditated design to ren∣der him perfidious and to drive Araminta from his heart: So that looking upon her almost as an Enemy, which came to assault him by open force, he had much ado to hide the turbulency of his spirits. Furthermore, since Arbiana had promised to dis∣swade him as much as she could from his thoughts of Araminta, and indeed did wish it; she would say somthing with as much sweetness and prudence as she could, which might perswade him, that constancy is a virtue which ought to have its Limits as other virtues have; and that when one was resolute upon a thing impossible, it was rather wilfulness then constancy, and therfore she conjured him to consider very seriously

whether his resolute denyall of Arsamones, was of such a Nature as would merit the name of a Virtue. Spitridates hearing Arbiana speak thus, was much moved, and most humbly beseeched her not to loaden him with new punishments by forcing him to resist her will, as he had the King his Fathers: For truly, Madam (sayd he unto her) I am so fully resolved never to forsake Araminta, as I shall not only be a Rebell unto the Kings will and yours, but I must declare also that if I could get out of this Prison, I should imploy my liberty only in going unto that Princess, though the Con∣querour of Asia should love her, as they would perswade me he doth: For the truth is, I cannot live without her. It is enough that the King hath driven the King her Bro∣ther out of his Kingdom, without desiring to drive her out of my heart: Therfore, Madam, I beseech your Majesty to beleive, that though the King would resign up all his regall Authority, and set me upon the Throne to morrow, yet I would not accept of it, unless upon condition that the first act of my Raign might be to Crown Ara∣minta Queen. Therfore, Madam, all that I am able to do, is to beseech you, that you be pleased to perswade the King, and perswade your self, how extreamly greived I am, that Fortune and Love should drive me to a fatall necessity of disobeying him, and denying you. Spitridates did pronounce these words in such feeling manner, as the hearts of Arbiana and the Princesess did even melt at the hearing them. But since they knew very well, that Arsamones would not have permitted this Visite, but in hopes of perswading him the Princesess of Bythinia told Spitridates, that he must give them leave to tell Arsamones how they had spoke unto him according to his desires: With all my heart, Sister, replyed he, provided still you tell him that I am not changed in my mind, nor ever will. After this their discourse changed subject, and Spitridates asked how the Prince Intaphernes did and earnestly desired to see him, adding that his Soul had somthing which he longed to impart unto him, Istrina hearing this, assured him that there was such a dear Corespondency between the Prince her brother and herself, that he might trust her with any thing he desired to impart unto him; and therfore being uncertain whether Arsamones would let Intaphernes see him, she would willingly do him that Office. That which I would impart unto the Prince Intaphernes replyed he, (and a little changed Countenance) is of such a nature as I cannot well impart it unto you: All I can say, is to beseech you by the Queens leave, if so it chance, that one of the most excellent persons in the world do complain of me in his presence, to tell him that I am not culpable, and that I think my misfortune to seem as if I did not esteem her (though really I do infinitely) to be one of the greatest which ever hapned. Since Istrina was unacquainted with the motion which Arsamones made unto Spitridates, she understood him not: but for his part, he being perswaded that she was acquainted with it, did think the least he could do, was to put her off handsomly. But as Istrina was ignorant of it, so was Arbiana and the Prin∣cess of Bythinia also: yet Istrina promised to tell the Prince Intaphernes what he de∣sired. On the other side Spitridates, who fain would, but durst not ask the Queen his Mother what he should think of Araminta, he had much wavering in his resolution: but at last, being prompted by some suggestions of jealousie, he asked her some indi∣rect Questions concerning her; And since the Queen imagined that the more faithfull he beleived Araminta, the more obstinat he would be, she only told him what reports were, and not what she thought: After which Arbiana and the Princesess retired. In their return to the Palace, to gain more time they resolved not to do as Spitridates would have them; but on the contrary, to keep Arsamones in hopes as long as they could.

In the mean time, Arsamones who was hasty and violent in all his actions, had sent for Intaphernes whilst they were with Spitridates, and discovered unto him his inten∣tions of marrying the Princess his Sister unto the Prince his Son. You may imagine, Madam, that such a resolution did much surprize and perplex Intaphernes: For his love to the Princess of Bythinia required one thing, and his Friendship to Atergatis required another: Also knowing how far the heart of Istrina was engaged, he did not think it possible for him, though he should cast of Atergatis, to perswade her from him. Moreover, he thought that the Prince Spitridates would not obey Arsamones, and quit his pretentions unto the Princess Araminta: yet he knew that if he did directly oppose Arsamones, he should indanger to incense him highly, and to be banished the Court; So that taking a middle course, betwixt con∣fessing and denying what he desired, he told him, that his motion was very glorious for the Princess his Sister: but since it rested absolutely upon Gadates and not at all

upon him, he thought himself obliged to tell him, that he beleived, Gadates would ne∣ver consent unto Istrinas marriage, as long as the King of Assyria was unmarried: Also it was not likely, that he being on the Part with Cyrus, he will give his Daugh∣ter unto a Prince who cannot marry her, unless he forsake the Princess Araminta whom Cyrus doth highly protect. After this Intaphernes did sweeten the matter with a thousand obliging expressions, which though just and reasonable, yet they dispo∣sed Arsamones unto anger. If the Princess Istrina replyed he, were in the Camp of Cyrus, perhaps the Prince your Father might refuse the motion; But since she is at Heraclea, perhaps he will be wiser, then to prefer the uncertain hopes of marrying her unto a King without a Kingdome, before the certainty of marrying her unto a Prince who is sure of two. Therfore all I desire of you, is, that you dispose the Prin∣cess Istrina to help me to drive Araminta out of Spitridates his mind, since she is better able to do it than any I know, having all perfections which may move him to obey me and love her.

After this, Arsamones not giving Intaphernes so much leasure as to reply, did leave him and left him in a great perplexity. However, after he had seriously considered upon the matter, since love was stronger in him then any other thought, he resolved to speak un∣to the Princess of Bythina, before he talked unto Istrinia and Atergatis of the new per∣secutions which were like to fall upon them: And accordingly without more delay, he went unto her, and easily found a fit opportunity of talking with her, since there were no such busie Ladies at Heraclea, as Berisa was, to hinder him: But he had the freedom to talk what he would, and acquainted her with the Proposition which the King her Father made unto him, asking her how she would have him do in the busi∣ness? Conjuring her, that as she was full of goodness and wisdom, so, that she would consider seriously upon the severall Interests of the Prince Spitridates, of Atergatis, of Istrina, and of himself, and desiring her to examine very carefully, whether she her∣self had any Interest in it. I have so much, replyed the Princess, that (as I conceive) none can have more then I have: for loving the Prince my brother so tenderly as I do, and having promised an unviolable fidelity unto the Princess Araminta; Cer∣tainly it is my duty to endeavour all possible waies that nothing should separate them: So that though I had no other motive but this, I should as much as I was able oppose the mind of the King my Father; Judge also what I ought to do, knowing his design of troubling the felicity of the Princess Istrina and Atergatis. But, Madam, replyed Intaphernes, I do not hear you mention any Interest that I have in this perverse reso∣lution: Since I do not mention my own (replyed the Princess) you ought not to be offended at it; yet I think it would not be amiss, replyed he, if you would be pleased to consider, that if I should earnestly oppose the King, perhaps he would banish me his Court, and perhaps also banish me out of your memory (and if I durst say it) your heart. As the Princess of Bythinia was going to answer, the Princess Istrina came un∣to her Chamber with Atergatis: so that having no time to tell Intaphernes what she thought, the discourse began more quietly then it ended; for Atergatis and the Prin∣cess were so surprized at the intentions of Arsamones, that they were not able to speak. At first, Atergatis looked upon Istrina as if he would look into her thoughts: pre∣sently after he looked upon Intaphernes, as if his looks begged his protection: and presently after he looked in the eyes of the Bythinian Princess, to see whether she ap∣proved of the King her Fathers design. And lastly, he considered with himself for a remedy against all these miseries. On the other side, Istrina looked upon Intaphernes so earnestly, that she did penitrate into the very bottom of his heart, and knew how this troubled him. The Princess of Bythinia, for her part, did love Intaphernes too well to have him banished, and did cast about for some expedient which might keep Spitridates from incensing Arsamones against him, and yet not prejudice any party. But after each of them in particular had considered on the business, and after they had long talked of it in generall, they began by degrees to talke in particular: Intapher∣nes whispered with the Princess of Bythinia; and Atergatis, with Istrina. You see, Ma∣dam, (sayd the last of these unto his adored Princess) that Fortune doth Court you with Crowns in all places, and poor I, am destined to Petition against your Grandure: But I most humbly beg of you, Madam, to be no more unjust unto me at Heraclea, then you were at Babylon; and give me leave to wish as zealously that the intentions of Arsamones may thrive no better then those of Nitocris. I am so far from contradicting

your wishes, replyed Istrina, that I assure you Sir, I will add mine unto yours. Not but that I do as highly esteem the Prince Spitridates, as I scorn the unjust Prince who slighted me; but my reason is—Oh I beseech you Madam (said Atergatis, and interrupted her) give me no reasons which concern me not; but let me have the hap∣pinesse to believe, that if the possession of two Kingdoms be indifferent unto you, it is because the poor Atergatis is not altogether indifferent in your thoughts. There is no necessity, replyed she, that I should explain my self as you would have me; for the secrets of ones heart are not to be discovered; and there is a sort of thoughts never to be known, and but only ghessed at: Then Madam, said he unto her, I be∣seech you give me leave to ghesse at yours to be as I desire them: I give you leave (said she, and blushed) to think all you can for your own advantage, provided they be not disadvantageous unto me. However I pray consider the crosnesse of my Fate: may it not very well be sayd, that fortune takes a delight to persecute me by the very same things which use to be the felicity of others? And so was the destiny of the Prince my Father, who when he was at the very point of being a King, was for ever banish∣ed the Court by the very same Princess who would have had him Reign: I was once looked upon as one that was to be a Queen, though the King of Assyria looked upon me as a slave; yet after I had rooted all ambitious thoughts out of my heart, they tell me again of Kingdoms and Crowns only to torment me, and hinder me from Reigning over my selfe. But since I do not owe so much respect unto Arsamones as I did unto Nitocris, I shall deny him with more force then he imagines, provided the Prince my Father does not take his part. Oh Madam, said Atergatis, what cruell words do you pronounce, after so many favourable ones? Atergatis spoke this so loud, that the Princess of Bythinia heard him, & asked what Injustice Istrina did him? so that the Conference became generall againe, and they consulted together what was best to be done: yet they could not all agree upon the best Expedient; for when Intaphernes for the interest of his love, said that he ought not positively to oppose Arsamones, because he knew that Gadates would oppose it also, Atergatis did not think that advice good: but on the contrary he said, to draw the Princess of Bythinia unto his opinion, that it did extreamly concern the Prince Spitridates for Intapher∣nes to let Arsamones see that his design was impossible, to the end he might let that Prince be at quiet in his Prison, though he would not release him.

He had no sooner spoke this, but Intaphernes did very civilly oppose the opinion of his friend, and told him that if he should do so, Arsamones who had a deep wit, would believe that he opposed him only in favour unto the passion which he bore un∣to the Princess, his Sister, and so he might perhaps moove him to banish them both the Court, and keep Istrina there.

I doe conceive it most fit, said the Princesse of Bythinia, that the Princess Istri∣na do undertake to oppose the King my Father, and that she do endeavour to moove Spitridates not to oppose him so much, purposely to appease him, and therefore I conceive it best for the Princess Istrina and the Prince Spitridates both, to resist Ar∣samones with equall resolutions. For my part, sayd Istrina then, I am very ready my selfe alone to oppose the Kings design: Yet I am perswaded that if all of us did equal∣ly oppose him, our side would be the stronger: I am affraid Sister, replyed Intapher∣nes, that it would be the weaker; for if Arsamones should be incensed against the Prin∣cess, against Spitridates, against Atergatis, against you, and against me, who shall be the Mediator to appease so great a difference? The reason of Intaphernes making the rest to concurr with his opinion, it was first resolved to spinne out the time as long as they could: and if so it hapned that Arsamones did not alter his mind, Intaphernes should then tell him, that the Princess his Sister protested she would rather dye, then marry a Prince who could never be her Husband, unlesse he were perfidious unto the most victorious Princess in the world.

This resolution being agreed upon, Intaphernes bethought himself how to temper the mind of Arsamones how to spin out the time, and how to give leisure unto the fatherly tenderness and reason of that Prince to overcome that politique obstinacy and desire of revenge, which made him so oppose the love of Spitridates unto Ara∣minta; and indeed for a while his design did take, for since Arsamones had more hopes in the beauty of Istrina then any thing else, to work a change in Spitridates, he would not be over-urgent with his son, to the end the fair eyes of that Princess might have some time to turn him Infidell.

In the mean while, the Princess of Bythinia thinking to adde some comfort unto the Prince her brother, as well as to satisfie her selfe, she went every day to see him. But Madam, the most observable passage was, that the Princess Istrina went thither also, because Arsamones did not give the Princess his daughter leave to see Spitrida∣tes, unless the Princess Istrina went with her: so that Intaphernes and Atergatis were not at all the happier: and this order of Arsamones did breed such a confusion in a few dayes, that these five persons (as wise and reasonable as they were) there was a kind of division amongst them.

The truth is, Madam, Spitridates complayned in secret against the Princess of By∣thinia, for seeming as if she intended to drive Araminta out of his heart by bringing the Princesse Istrina alwayes with her; for since these two Princesses could not speak unto him without witnesse, they could not undeceive him: so that with murmure of heart he accused Intaphernes, for not being generous enough: Istrina, for not standing enough upon her honour: Atergatis, for a very bad Lover: And the Princess his Si∣ster for not being constant to her first thoughts, & for not loving Araminta enough. As for Atergatis he was in a lamentable plight, for he feared that Spitridates would turn Infidell to Araminta by seeing Istrina, and he feared that Istrina at the Queens desire would turn Infidell to him.

Nor was he well satisfied with Intaphernes, thinking he might move Istrina not to accompany the Princess of Bythinia when she went to Spitridates, murmuring also against the Prince Spitridates for receiving visits from one they would have him mar∣ry, and complayning against the Princess of Bythinia, who without consideration either of his case or the Princess Araminta's, unto whom she had promised so much friendship, did still see Spitridates once every day. But all these complaints were no∣thing in comparison of those which he himself made against Istrina for going every day unto a Prince, whom she knew Arsamones would have her marry.

On the other side, the Princess of Bythinia complained, that Intaphernes in behalf of Atergatis, had pressed her more then once to spare some of her frequent visits un∣to Spitridates, and that Istrina would hardly be drawn to accompany her: Also she murmured that Atergatis should grumble against her: But she did more sharply re∣sent a kind of hollow coldnesse which she observed in the mind of Spitridates.

As for Istrina, she was off the hooks as much as any of the rest; for valuing the sa∣tisfaction of Atergatis very much, she heartily wished that the Prince her Brother, by vertue of his absolute authority over her, would hinder her from accompanying the Princess of Bythinia in her visits to Spitridates: But since he did not so, shee mur∣mured against him, and complained no lesse that the Princesse of Bythinia should want that piece of Complacency to her. However, she was very angry that Aterga∣tis should find fault with her too often visits of Spitridates, and she was also some∣thing angry to observe that the illustrious Prisoner was something civill towards her. Furthermore, Intaphernes thought much at Atergatis, knowing his Passion to the Princess of Bythinia, that he should offer so obstinately to resist him. Nor did he take it wel that Istrina should accompany that Princess with so many signs of unwillingnes, though he would not have her break off with Atergatis. But he took it much worse, that the Princess whom he loved should not give him any hopes of his happinesse in a Conjuncture wherein he thought she might well permit him to make tryall of it by discovering his design unto Arsamones. Thus these five illustrious persons, murmu∣ring in secret without any open Complaints, they knew not what to say when met together.

In the mean time Arsamones after he had given so much time as he thought requi∣site for the beauty of Istrina to work its effects in driving Araminta out of his sons heart, he began to speak big like a Prince that would be obeyed: and to declare unto Arbiana, unto the Princess his Daughter, unto Spitridates, and every one to whom he spake, that he was fully resolved to Court Istrina unto the marriage of Spitrida∣tes, and that he was resolved to hinder Spitridates from marrying Araminta. You may judg Madam, how this resolution did perplex all the persons that were concer∣ned in the businesse: Then did the Princess of Bythinia, Istrina, Intaphernes and A∣tergatis being all together, begin to justifie themselves by accusing each other, and laying the misfortune upon every one but themselves: But when this secret poyson w••h had lurked in their hearts, & caused many a throb, did begin to evaporate by com∣plaints,

they began to take fresh comfort. At first, they vented their Complaints tu∣multuously and in much confusion, but by degrees collecting their thoughts into some order, they did all justifie themselves; and their passions teaching them to excuse the passions of others, they made a Peace, and accused only themselves for this secret schis∣me which was like to have spoyled their whole business: So that esteem, Love, and friendship assuming place in their hearts without any anger, spight, and a miscellany of many other tumultuous thoughts, they began to complayn of their own miseries, & not of one anothers. But though this seemed to be solidly made, yet Atergatis whose love was very violent, he could not hope for any satisfaction of it, untill he had found out a way to make the design of Arsamones impossible. Though these persons had infinite spirits & wit in abundance, yet they were extreamly puzled. For, sayd the Princess of Bythinia, though it should be possible to murder the passion of the Prince my Brother, yet I should never consent unto it: and though I believe his liberty would be his Exile, perhaps cost him his life, at least be very long, yet I wish he had it. It is the only remedy replyed Atergatis, which can be found to comfort this illu∣strious Prince, and perhaps to force Arsamones unto a cessation of his persecutions; for truly Madam, what comfort can you take to see the Prince Intaphernes loaden with fetters, and to see him perpetually tormented by the King your Father? Though its true, replyed she, that it would be more advantageons for the Prince my Brother to wander like a fugitive, then to continue a Prisoner; yet there is a strong reason which forbids me to procure his liberty if I could: For since the King my Father, du∣ring the exile of the Prince my Brother, would declare me Queen, I ought not to ex∣pose my selfe unto any suspition of such unjust ambition.

Oh Madam (sayd Istrina) your generosity is too scrupulous: How can the Prince Spitridates ever suspect you of any thoughts to reign in his prejudice? you I say, whose soule is so high, so noble, and so disinterested? and who is capable of no fur∣ther ambition, but to render your selfe worthy of more esteem then ever any had? Whilst Istrina was talking thus, Intaphernes hardly hearing what she said, consulted with himself, whether the liberty of Spitridates would be advantageous to him or no; and after a serious debate with himself he concluded, that as long as Arsamones had any thoughts of disinheriting Spitridates, he could never pretend unto the Princess of Bythinia: so that measuring the interest of that Prince by his own, he thought it bet∣ter for him that he continued still a prisoner, then to wander over the world as he did during his exile. So that concurring with the opinion of the Bythinian Princess, and Istrina not daring to contradict them, Atergatis ws singular in his opinion, and con∣sequently did submit in appearance. However he was perswaded that the violence of Arsamones would reach further then they imagined, and that there was no other re∣medy neither for Spitridates nor himselfe, then that which he had propounded: And he intended to try if there was any possible wayes to set that Prince at liberty, and put it in execution when he thought best.

But whiles these four were thus reasoning with themselves, Spitridates having re∣ceived no answer from Araminta to whom he had writ, he was extreamly sad, in thought that her infidelity was the cause of her silence: For Madam, he knew not how he who carryed his Letter unto that Princesse, and was to bring her answer, was stopped by the Forces of Croessus, and carryed unto Sardis, as we understood, after the liberty of Spitridates, so that this unfortunate Prince being every day forced by his passion to expresse a thousand testimonies of fidelity unto a Princesse whom hee thought perfidious, his despair was sometimes so great, that he wished himself able to hate Araminta. But for all that he still loved her with a most unalterable constan∣cy: and certainly he gave sufficient testimony of it after the Peace was established be∣tween Intaphernes, Atergatis, Istrina, and the Bythinian Princess: For Arsamones be∣ing infinitely enraged at his resolute resistance, went to see him, and gave him such bitter and menacing language, as any other heart but that of Spitridates would have trembled: Yet he kept close unto his prescribed Principles; and without starting the least jot from his fidelity to Araminta, or reverence unto the King his Father, he re∣sisted him without any tartness or complaint. But the more patient and wise he was in his sorrows, the more violent and unjust was Arsamones in his anger.

Know thou base man that thou art, (said he unto him) that since thou wilt not be like the sonne of a King, thou shalt not be one: And to deprive ••hee of any title or

right to succeed in two Kingdoms which I possesse, I will declare and renounce the Kingdom of Bythinia, and that I have no other pretence unto it but as a Conqueror. Look upon me (sayd this incensed Prince) as an usurper, and not as a legitimate King: but as an usurper who can soveraignly dispose of what I have usurped, and as one that will never give it unto a man who is unworthy of it, and covers himselfe with eternall shame, if within one moneth he do not repent: this is the utmost minute that I will give him, to choose whether he will be a King or a slave: Then this vio∣lent Prince leaving him, he was at freedom to complain against his injustice. But Ma∣dam, why should I consume any time in telling you the inquietudes of a Prince whom the Gods had so pointed out for a sufferer? It is more requisite I acquaint you how Atergatis apprehending that Spitridates was resolved not to obey Arsamones, and that Istrina was not so ambitious as to be Queen of two Kingdoms, he resolved as I told you before, to try all manner of wayes how to release him; for being of a most liberall disposition and a winning spirit, questionlesse he was qualified for such an en∣terprize. But Madam, that which most advanced his plot was that whilst he was tam∣pering to suborn the Guards of Spitridates which stood at the gates of the Tower, to the end they might suborn those who were neerer his person, this generous Prisoner was tampering with those who were in his Chamber, to the end they should corrupt those which were placed at the gate of the Tower: So that Madam, though Atergatis and Spitridates held not any correspondency together, yet they transacted as if they had; so that by chance working together upon those whom they attempted to per∣swade, it hapned that when the Guards which were within the Tower did propose the releasement of Spitridates unto those who were without, they found them upon the same design, and ready to make the same Propositions unto them within. So that there being a facility to enter perswade each other, the businesse was quickly conclu∣ded, and as soon executed. For since the Tower stood upon the Sea-side, Atergatis having provided a Barque ready the same night which he made choise of for the re∣leasement of this illustrious Prisoner: It was an easie matter for the suborned guards who were much the greater number, to quell the rest to release this Prince, to carry him to the Barque, and to embarque with him: But Madam, the wonder was, Spitri∣dates was released, and knew not who released him untill he came unto the Sea side: For then the Prince Atergatis, who would see the execntion of the business, did make himself known unto him.

And to compleat his generosity, he gave him a Page, and told him that he should find in the Barque all things requisite or necessary for so long a voyage: After which Spitridates giving thanks unto his Deliverer with all the hast of a man that feared to lose a happiness which he was ready to enjoy, he parted from him, and making all saile and oare they could, he went I know not whither; for after his departure from Heraclea, we never heard where he landed. We understood he was at Atarmes, where you Madam took him for Cyrus, and that he saw you Embarque with the King of Pontus, but we could never learn whether he went straight from Heraclea unto Atarmes.

In the mean while, though he loved Democlides very well, who was in the same pri∣son with him, yet he was not released; for the businesse was done so hastily, that the Guards of Spitridates, never thought of going to the Chamber of Democlides: And Spitridates himself, doubtlesse all his thoughts were so taken up with Araminta, that he thought of nothing else.

But Madam, the most observable passage was, that the Prince Atergatis was not at all suspected: and if he had not himself confessed it unto the Princess Istrina, and Intaphernes, we had not known it. To tell you Madam, how much Arsamones was both astonished and angered when he knew of Spitridates his escape, were to attempt a thing impossible: As for Arbiana, she was very glad, for she began to feare the violence of the King. As for the Princess of Bythinia, shee both joyed and grieved, foreseeing that this Exile would be worse to him then the other: As for Intaphernes though he was glad for Spitridates, yet he grieved for himself, because he thought that the liberty of this Prince would be an obstacle unto his design: And as for Aterga∣tis, his joyes were as plump as he could either wish or hope; and to make them more sensible to him, he understood that Istrina was glad of Spitridates his escape:

In the mean time, since the pride of Arsamones would never let him complain long he affected to seem as if he were easily comforted for the absence of the Prince his son, whom he openly said should never be his Successor. Thus in a few dayes there was as great a calm in the Court, as if this storm had never risen: For since every one stood in fear of Arsamones, they durst neither rejoyce nor grieve openly at the liberty or absence of Spitridates: And all that the Queen could do, was to obtain the liber∣ty of Democlides, upon condition to depart from Heraclea.

After that things had thus rested some dayes, it was known that the Governour of the Castle which stood upon the Frontiers of Bythinia towards Galatia, had sent a Post unto Arsamones about some important intelligence, and that Arsamones had sent twice to him. But that which did a little surprize all the Court, was, that Arsa∣mones would have the two Princes, Intaphernes and Atergatis goe with him unto the Frontiers of Bythinia. So that going neither to Chalcedonia nor Chrysipolis which are the two chief Towns, we went unto a little Village not above fifty furlongs from this Castle, whose Governour had given this intelligence which we were all ignorant of, but presently after knew what it was.

Be pleased to know Madam, that the King of Assyria, after he went from Sardis, whilst the illustrious Cyrus was gone with Spitridates to the Princess Araminta, and with intention to enquire into what part of the world the King of Pontus had hurried you, this King of Assyria received false intelligence, which caused his imprisonment. For you must know Madam, he was told that the King of Pontus, whose Father Reigned with soveraignty sufficient to have many Creatures there, had yet so many friends left, as had plotted a great conspiracy against Arsamones, which would pre∣sently break out into a flame; so that the King of Assyria being informed of the bu∣sinesse, and that the King of Pontus after he had carryed you Madam from Sardis, had carryed you into Bythinia, to the house of the head-man in the Conspiracy which was very strong: and that he carryed you thither, with intentions to hide you there untill all things were in readinesse to set you upon the Throne, he wended his course that way.

Though this intelligence was not probable, yet there was in it some appearance of possibility, which that Prince thought he ought not to neglect: so that he resolved for Bythinia, to satisfie himself of the truth. But since Arsamones, as I already told you, did keep a very strict Guard in all his Dominions, as if the King whom he had van∣quished and driven out were still in the head of an Army, the King of Assyria being to passe a Bridg over the River Sangar, was stopped by the Guards there, to know from whence he came, and whither he went. But he being of an imperious temper, in lieu of answering to those Questions, begun to be angry, and his Examiners being something insolent with him, he drew his sword, and wounded two or three of them. Since he had only one Page with him, since there was above twenty Souldiers there, and since many people of the Town at the end of this Bridg compassing him about, he was arrested, after he had wounded many of them, and afterwards was carryed to the Castle I speak of.

As soon as he who commanded it did look upon him, he knew that he had seen him in the Army under the name of Philidespes, at the same time when Cyrus under the name of Artamenes got victory upon victory in the Wars then against the Kings of Pontus and Phrygia: So that this man considering the importance of his Prisoner, did look very carefully to him, and acquainted Arsamones, who no sooner knew it but he came presently from Heraclea, to the place I mentioned before, to the end he might the better dive into the design which the King of Assyria might have in coming into Bythinia: But being a Prince who never used to impart his thoughts, unless there was an absolute necessity for it, he kept this intelligence very close: so that though the Village where the Court was, was within fifty furlongs from this Castle, yet we knew not who was in it, nor why we were there.

In the mean time, since Arsamones was concerned in all the harsh usage of the As∣syrian King heretofore unto Intaphernes and Istrina, he should not have any great disposition to treat this Prince very well: Yet since the rule of all his actions was on∣ly his own interest, he never had any Friend with whom he would not break, if it wovld be advantageous for him; nor ever had he any Enemy unto whom he would not reconcile himself upon the same reason: so that having this Prince in his power,

he considered what use might be made of him. Then he apprehended, that when Cy∣rus had released you Madam, his desires of bringing all Asia into subjection, would move him to make War upon himself, and the Princesse Araminta would prompt him to it; for he knew not yet how the Prince Phruartes had carryed her away.

Arsamones then, considering all these things, he thought fit to give the valour of Cyrus some employment, and to make unto himself an Allie, so brave and couragious as the King of Assyria was. Then his design was, to propound unto him a marriage with the Princess Istrina; and for the better acceptance, he offered to kindle a Rebel∣lion in Babylon, by some correspondencies which he had there, and to joyn with him against all his Enemies: For knowing very well that Gadates was very zealous for this Match; and seeing there was no hopes for Spitridates, he thought it would not be a hard matter to bring Istrina unto obedience. Moreover, since he had indeed discove∣red that Intaphernes was in Love with the Princess his Daughter, his plot was to give her unto him, upon condition he would moove Istrina to marry the King of Assyria: And upon that condition, he would solemnly declare, that Spitridates should never be King either of Pontus or Bythinia.

And in order to this, he sent Atergatis unto Chalcedonia, under a pretence of some popular stirrs there, which indeed were already appeased, to the end his presence might be no obstacle to his design. Atergatis then was no sooner gone, but Arsamones went to see the King of Assyria, whom he treated with as high Civilities, as if he were upon his own Throne.

But Madam, I cannot tell whether I ought to go on with my relation, and whe∣ther you will think good I should speak so particularly of a Princes love, who hath been a cause of your many miseries: Yet the King of Assyria's busines is so intertwisted with the history of Intaphernes, Atergatis, Istrina, and the Princess of Bythinia, as I cannot relate the one without the other.

Since they are inseparable, replyed Mandana, I had rather hear you speak of a Prince whom I do not love, then not to know the sequell of their Adventures whom I do in∣finitely esteem. Besides, you know, that sometimes one may be as inquisitive of the actions of an Enemy, as of Friends: Therefore Orcames, I pray tell me all the passa∣ges in Bythinia, as if I had not interest in them, and as if I did not hate the King of Assyria; Upon this command Orcames went on with his relatiou.

Arsamones then being with the King of Assyria, and treating him, as I told you, with all possible Civilities, did at first condole his misfortunes, and after many obli∣ging expressions, told him, that it should only be long of himself, if he were not more happy: Then he offered to cause a Revolt in Babylon, to give him a considerable Ar∣my: And that he would joyn inseparably with him to oppose the Conquests of Cy∣rus, provided he would marry Istrina as the Queen Nitocris wished. As soon as Ar∣samones had done speaking, the King of Assyria did sharply answer, that hee would most willingly accept of his Proposition without the Condition annexed to it, buto∣therwise he could never think of it: For indeed, said he unto him, since I could not love Istrina at a time when I was in Love with none; Certainly I can never love her now, when I am in love with the fairest and most divine Princess that ever lived: Therefore never offer me such a thing as I cannot accept of, but let me go and seek out the King of Pontus who hath ravished away the Princess whom I adore, and that I may grati∣fie you for my liberty, by ridding you of an Enemy who will be a perpetuall thorn in the Crowns that you have conquered. Since Cyrus seeks him with a hundred thou∣sand men (replyed Arsamones) it is probable he will find him before you Sir. There∣fore I beseech you, let not that be any hinderance unto your acceptance of this ad∣vantageous Proposition.

The King of Assyria hearing Arsamones say so, did think he jeered at him, and be∣gan to be angry: And Arsamones being as violent as he, this Conversation which be∣gan with Civilities was like to end with Injuries. Yet the King of Bythinia thought his design might take, and that desire of liberty might bring the King of Assyria unto his Bent: so that desiring to prepare Intaphernes for his ends, he took him aside the same night: and after he had told him how the King of Assyria was his prisoner, he began to propound the marriage of Istrina with him. Arsamones had no sooner pro∣nounced those words, but Intaphernes being transported with som violence, How hath Sir (said he unto him) can I ever consent my Sister should ever marry a Prince who

hath most injuriously affronted me, and that she should cast off one who is my inti∣mate friend? Fye, no, Sir, it is not possible, nor do I take the heart of Istrina to be so base, as to have any such thoughts, though the King of Assyria were upon his Throne: Be not so hasty (replyed Intaphernes coldly) and to let you see, that I know a way how to make you like the motion; know, that if you do perswade Istri∣na unto my desires, and unto what you know very well the Prince your Father de∣sires, I will consent you shall marry my Daughter whom I know you love; upon condition notwithstanding that you promise me never to restore the Kingdom of Pon∣tus, nor the Kingdom of Bythinia unto the unworthy Spitridates.

This Proposition did so amaze Intaphernes, that for a time he was not able to an∣swer: but as he was ready to reply, Arsamones left him, and sayd, that he saw so much turbulency in his mind, that he would not have him answer confusedly, but would give him time to consult with his ambition and his love; after which he left him in a most perplexed condition: For on the other side, he found abundance of joyes in having a a possibility to enjoy the Princess whom he adored: But when he considered, that to enjoy so great a happiness, he must give his Sister unto his Enemy, betray his friend, and usurp the Dominions of a brother unto his Princess by accepting it, his Soul was in a very Hell. Nor did he beleive that the Princess of Bythinia would ever marry him upon those tearms, though he should promise her not to take any advantage of this declaration: for he had heard her express somthing which intimated as much; So that whether he considered his hatred of the Assyrian King, his friendship to Aterga∣tis, the aversion of Istrina to the one, her inclination to the other: or whether he considered his duty to Spitridates, and the high generosity of the Bythinian Princess: he saw that Arsamones offered him a benefit which he could not enjoy upon such con∣ditions, though he did accept of them: and consequently his sorrows were not mean.

In the mean time, he knew not whether he should acquaint first the Princess of By∣thinia, or Istrina with it: But going unto the Chamber of the Bythinian Princess, and finding them both together, he could not any longer let this vexatious secret lye lurk∣ing in his heart. You may easily conceive, Madam, how these two Princesses wondred when they heard the King of Assyria was Prisoner, and when they heard the King of Bythinias Proposition unto Intaphernes. Truth is, there wonder was so great, as they both did extreamly blush, though for different reasons. But since the Princess Istrinas heart did extreamly hate the King of Assyria, and was very tender towards Atergatis, she was the first that spoke, though it was not she unto whom the Prince Intaphernes addressed his speech: Oh Heavens (sayd she very heartily) can Arsamo∣nes ever think of forcing me to marry the King of of Assyria; Oh, Madam (added she and looked upon the Princess of Bythinia) I beseech you pardon me if I do not obey him: It is most just I should (replyed that generous Princess) since I am resolved to commit the same Crime my self: For though I do esteem the Prince Intaphernes, and have given him a higher place in my heart, then ever any had; yet I assure you, I shall never consent he should take two Kingdoms from the Prince my brother, nor be ever happy by making him miserable. However, Madam (replyed Intaphernes and sighed) I beseech you honour me so far as to allow me some comfort for refusing a be∣nefit which you will not let me accept of, and which Honour forbids me as well as my Sister, since she cannot endure to be wife unto the King of Assyria, rather then unto Atergatis: Do but acknowledge, Madam, that the generosity of your Soule is the only Impediment, and that if it were less, you could consent unto my happiness. I do acknowledge, sayd she and blushed, that I wish you were, but if you should be ca∣pable of desiring it by any unjust wayes in lieu of wishing your happines, I beleive I should wish the contrary. But, Madam, not to consume more time in repeating the discourse of these three Illustrious Persons; It was resolved that they should write un∣to Atergatis to invite his return, and that in the interim, Istrina should take upon her to resist Arsamones, since Intaphernes had not power to incense a Prince who had made him such a motion as might make him happy, if some unjust Conditions were not annexed to it: But that which most troubled them was, that they could not know whether the King of Assyria had denyed Arsamones; but on the contrary had cause to beleive, that he had not, and that desire of liberty had altered his mind.

In the mean time, the King of Bythinia who was ever wedded to his own will, asked

Intaphernes the next morning, if he had considered upon the motion, and that Prince in order unto their resolutions, assured him, that there was so much glory to him in it, that he thought himself capable of committing Crimes rather then not accept of it: but also he was obliged to tell him, that he verily beleived that the Princess Istrina would never obey him if he commanded her to marry her Enemy. To this Arsamo∣nes answered, That a Prince who knew so well how to bring two Kingdoms into subjection, knew well enough how to make Istrina obey him; so that assuring him∣self of that, he bent all his endeavours to perswade the King of Assyria: But all to no purpose, that Prince still telling him, that you, Madam, and you only should Raign in his heart as long▪ as he lived: that he had nothing to do with Kingdoms, that he had no need of any Army, and that he only desired his liberty, adding some expressions which denoted his extream aversion unto Istrina and Intaphernes, of whom he spoke with intollerable scorn, as we afterwards understood by one of the Guards in his Chamber.

Moreover, when Arsamones did one day press Intaphernes to the Declaration which he would require of him, never to restore the Kingdoms of Pontus and Bythinia unto Spitridates, he perfectly perceived notwithstanding all his handsom answers, that they did not proceed from his intentions: So that being very angry, and finding his design to be impossible, he plotted another which he thought more ea∣sie, by which he thought to be better revenged upon Spitridates, and to hinder Ara∣minta and all her family from having any part in his Dominions, and this it was. His design was not to speak of Istrina any more unto the King of Assyria, thinking his a∣version to her was chiefly his reason for not accepting his offer. However, Arsamones would have the Queen visite the imprisoned King, that she should carry the Prin∣cess her Daughter with her; And so they did, who not being able to guess at his de∣sign, were very glad to see a Prince whose Adventures were so extraordinary, and who was so much talked of over all Asia. Since you are all goodness, Madam, I hope you will give me leave without any anger to tell you, that he received these Princesses with much civility, and used many expressions which were full of spirit, full of gene∣rosity, and full of love to you: for he did most earnestly intreat them to be Media∣tors unto the King for his liberty, that he might go and recover yours: And the more to oblige them unto it, he fell into most high Elogies of you. But after that, since the naturall impetuosity of his honour could not longer be hid, the Queen by chance naming Intaphernes, this violent Prince fell into such an angry chafe both a∣gainst him and Istrina also, and used such unjust and injurious expressions, that these two Princesses were not able to endure it, yet having no mind to quarrell with a Prince whose imprisonment seemed to them unjust, they retired, promising him their inter∣cessions unto Arsamones for his liberty. But as soon as they were out of the Chamber, the King of Bythinia sent to tell him that he would mention Istrina no more unto him, but would offer unto him the Princess his Daughter, and two Kingdoms, that he would recover Babylon for him by help of some intelligence which he had: and assu∣ring him that within fifteen dayes he would give him an Army able to resist Cyrus, if he would make War with him. Tell the King your Master (replyed this Prince unto the man by whom Arsamones sent this message) that if I could cease being the Rivall of Cyrus, doubtless I should become his friend: for besides all his rare Qualities wor∣thy of my amity, I must acknowledge that I owe him my self: so that were I not his Rivall I should never raise an Army to oppose him. But assure Arsamones also, that though the Princess his Daughter be full of perfections; and though I have as great a disposition to esteem her, as I have aversion unto Istrina, yet I cannot hearken unto a second Proposition with a more favourable eare then unto the first; For since I must ever be the Lover of the Princess Mandana, I can never be the Husband of the Bythinian Princess. But, Sir (replyed the man) were you in any hopes of ever ob∣taining the love of this Princess whom you adore, I should not think it so strange, that you should refuse this Offer: But I must confess, when I consider how you have lost your Kingdom, that the Princess Mandana does not love you and that yet you should refuse two Kingdoms with one of the fairest Princess in the world; for one that hates you, my wonder is beyond my words: What ere it be (replyed the King of Assyria very sharply) such are my reall thoughts; and if the Empire of all Asia were offered me, with a condition not to pretend unto Mandana, I would refuse it,

as I do the Kingdoms of Pontus and Bythinia: Oh Heavens (cryed he) was ever any Fate like mine? Arsamones would give me two Kingdoms, and a Princess worth more then both, yet will not give me that liberty which unless he violate the Laws of Nations he cannot take from me: Is it possible that I alone should be the only man in all the Universe unto whom he can give his Kingdoms, and the Princess his Daugh∣ter? I see very well (pursued this violent Prince) that he makes choise of me before any other, because he knows that if I accept of them I shall never restore them unto the King of Pontus, or any of his family, and so the hate he bears unto his Enemies is the cause of his choise: But since his Interest alone doth prompt him unto the of∣fer, he must not take it ill, if mine prompt me to a refusall. Tell him therfore, that if I had power not to love the Princess Mandana, and to overcome my self, I had dri∣ven her out of my heart, before they drove me out of Babylon, and that I should have conquered my self before Cyrus did overcome me: Or to express my self better, if e∣ver I could have left loving this Princess, it would have been when she desired to do it with her eyes full of Tears: and therfore I cannot follow those motions of hatred and revenge, which induce Arsamones to make such odd Propositions unto me that I can∣not accept of them upon those tearms, though they seem to be very advantageous to me. Tell him then that I can be his friend, but I cannot be the Husband of the Prin∣cess his Daughter: and so he needs not urge me to no purpose unto a thing which I cannot do; for the most certain truth is, I do love and am not loved, and I am fully resolved so to do till death or fortune change my destiny. But if after all this Arsa∣mones will wilfully keep me Prisoner, and hinder me from releasing Mandana, tell him then, that this King without a Kingdom whom he holds in his hands, and whom he thinks so weak and wanting all protection, perhaps is powerfull enough to cause the ruine of his new Dominions, and make him loose those two Kingdoms which he offers me, since he hath a Rival so generous as to release him, though he be his most mortall Enemy. After this the King of Assyria made a sign with his hand unto the man, which intimated that he had no more to say, and that he should return to the King his Ma∣ster, and did it with as much austere Majesty, as if he were still upon his Throne. Also he who was a witness of his violence and choller was so surprized, that after he had reported unto Arsamones, how the King of Assyria received his message, he could not keep that secret which was such a wonder to him: so as imparting it unto me, I was extreamly astonished to hear that Arsamones should alter his resolution.

In the mean time, I thought it requisite to acquaint the persons interested in this odd design: For I must confess, Madam, that as resolute as the King of Assyria's an∣swer was, yet I thought he might change his mind. Therfore I resolved to make the state of things known unto those who might find a remedy. As I went unto Intapher∣nes, I found Atergatis with him, who returned sooner then expected; but returned so sad to hear that Arsamones would marry Istrina unto the King of Assyria, that In∣taphernes was not able to comfort him; and as soon as he saw me he called me to help him to settle the mind of Atergatis; Alas, Sir, answered I, I am not very fit to comfort him and you also; for I assure you, when I have imparted all, the Prince Ater∣gatis hath no other sorrows but what will be yours; for the truth is, Sir, it is not I∣strina whom Arsamones would have the King of Assyria to marry, but it is the Prin∣cess of Bythinia. These were such words of wonder that both these Princes cryed out: But, oh Heavens, how different were their tones, and how sad was the sound of Intaphernes his voice? Indeed, Madam, I am not able to express what I saw in the faces of these two Lovers: I saw in one minute despair to pass out of the heart of Aterga∣tis, into that of Intaphernes; fury was quenched in the Soul of one, and kindled in the Soul of the other; I saw sorrow dye in the eyes of Atergatis and revive in Intapher∣nes: and in an instant, I saw the Comforter become the sad man, and the sad man be∣come the Comforter. I should abuse your patience, Madam, if I should relate unto you all their Lamentations, or how Atergatis imployed the same Arguments of Conso∣lation unto Intaphernes, which he immediatly before received from him: Nor will I relate all that the Princess Istrina, and the Princess of Bythinia sayd, when they knew the business; for having formerly acquainted you particularly with their virtues and the innocent passions of their Souls; you may easily conceive they expressed their sorrows unto each other. However these cross adventures produced one happiness unto these two Lovers, since they obliged the Princesses whom they loved, to give them

as sweet and tender Language, as if their Souls were in much more tranquility: for doubtless there is nothing fitter to induce a person who loves to unmask affection, then misfortunes and sorrows. Whilst things were in this condition, it was known how the King of Pontus carryed you, Madam, unto Cumes; And that Cyrus went to besiege it; so that this news having infused other thoughts into the mind of Arsa∣mones, who was extreamly incensed against the King of Assyria for his refusall, every one was in a strange wonder to hear that we must all return unto Heraclea: And our wonder was the greater, because he appointed (without giving any reason for it) all those only whom he had told that the King of Assyria was in his power, to keep it secret: After which all departed; this Prince, leaving so many men as he judged fit for the Guard of this Castle where the King was Prisoner, yet not daring to leave so ma∣ny as he wished, least that should be suspected which he would not have known. Since this Prince was of a very close spirit, we could not then dive into those mysteries which afterwards we knew: For indeed, Madam, it was at that time, when Arsamones to be revenged upon the King of Assyria, and to get the King of Pontus into his pow∣er, did send unto the Illustrious Cyrus this message, that if he would promise to re∣store the King of Pontus into his hands when he had taken Cumes, he in exchange would restore the King of Assyria into his power. But as you know, Madam, the Il∣lustrious Cyrus having received a Letter from this Captive King, he took a more he∣roick Resolution, and denyed Arsamones.

In the mean time, Intaphernes and Atergatis were not at all happy: for Arsamo∣nes leaving Arbiana & the Princesses at Heraclea, he carryed them unto Cabyra, where he grew so melancholy (when upon the return of his Messenger, and the Arrivall of Hidaspes he heard of the generosity of Cyrus) that he fell sick there: yet he would not let the Queen bring the Princesses with her, when she came, but commanded her to leave them at Heraclea; for his soul was in such a fury, that he could not endure Intaphernes, or Atergatis should have so much comfort as to see the Princesses whom they loved.

In the mean time, his sickness continued so long, that it did facilitate the liberty of the Assyrian King. For though they told him that Hidaspes when he departed was gone into Galatia, and Cappadocia; And that he drew out of all his Garrisons unto a bo∣dy, he could not beleive that Cyrus had commanded him to attempt the delivering of his Enemy by force: but rather imagined, that it was to recruite the Army, then out of any desire of his Rivals liberty. So that his Policy being caused to sleep by the violence of his sickness, he gave Hidaspes time to surprise the Castle where the King of Assyria was, and to deliver that Prince. Tis true, that Intaphernes and Atergatis were so afraid, least the fancy should take Arsamones to make him either marry Istrina, or the Bythinian Princess, they were not very forward in giving any advice for his secu∣rity: and though they did most horridly hate the King of Assyria, yet they wished his liberty; And they were as much joyed, as Arsamones was angred, when the news of his surprizall was brought to Cabyra: Insomuch as Intaphernes not being able to hide his joyes, this violent Prince suspected, that he gave intelligence unto Hidaspes to surprize the Castle: and his suspitions of it were the greater, when he knew that the Prince Gadates had writ a Letter unto him, which he had not shewed, because it appointed him to come hither; and Intaphernes not being able to be at such a distance from the Princess of Bythinia, would not let Arsamones see it, least he should move him to obey Gadates sooner then he had a desire. However, though this Prince was innocent of that the King of Bythinia did accuse him, yet he was held guilty, upon bare Conjectures, and banished, not only from the Court, but also out of all his Do∣minions. Arbiana did what she could to appease him, but all in vain, for Arsamones would set no term when Intaphernes should return into his Dominions; but when he brought with him, either the King of Pontus, or Araminta, or Spitridates. You may ea∣sily imagine, Madam, how sad the Prince was, who after a thousand good Services done unto Arsamones, was treated with such Ingratiude and Injustice. Intaphernes out of a resentment of honour, had a good mind to ask leave he might carry Istrina with him; but conceiving it would be more for his advantage that he should re∣main with the Princess whom he loved, he rejected that thought. However, obey he must, because he could not help it, and the willinger, because the Princess of Bythinia commanded him: yet in spight of Arsamones, he had the satisfaction to bid her adieu;

for since she was at Heraclea, he went out of Cabyra in a disguise thither, and saw her, in the presence of Istrina, of Atergatis who followed him, and of my self. I need not, Madam, make any relation of what these persons did say, the thoughts of whose hearts were so full of tenderness: But I assure you, that never was any love or friendship, so fluent in sweet and passionate expressions, as theirs, when they expressed their sor∣rows to part from each other, and to part not knowing when they should be so hap∣py as to meet again. The Princess of Bythinia Protested unto Intaphernes, never to be any'es if she were not his. And Atergatis being to loose his Advocate unto Istrina, desired him to press that Princess in his presence unto a Profession never to chase him from her heart. Istrina and Atergatis then made new Protestations of amity unto each other, as well as Intaphernes and Atergatis, so as they tyed themselves unto each other by such knots, as I am most confident are indissolvable. But, Madam, de∣part he must, and indeed I parted with him, to come unto that place where Gadates had so long desired him; But hearing that Cumes was taken, and that you, Madam, were upon your March we changed our way, with intention to meet you upon the Rode.

In the mean time, as the Gods are the only disposers of all Events, so the Prince In∣taphernes using to ride alone, that he might the better contemplate upon his Passion, he lost his way in a wild Forrest, having none with him but only one Page: For though I used to keep him company in such solitudes, yet I was not then with him, but stayed behind with one of his men, and telling him how extreamly affraid I was to meet with the King of Assyria, when we came to you. But whilst I was in fear that Intaphernes might meet with this Prince, the Gods who do not use to comply al∣wayes with the wills of men, but often mock at all humane Prudence, did conduct In∣taphernes unto the banks of that little River, where the Assyrian King was taking the Aire, whilst you, Madam, was in the Temple; and staying in the pleasant place untill the hour of your setting out. I understand since by the Page which followed Inta∣phernes, and by Intaphernes himself, all the passages of this meeting: And since I un∣derstand by Martesia that you, Madam, do not know it, but desires infotmation, I shall acquaint you with the particulars; and if I should conceal an Action so gallant and noble, I should not make a perfect relation of Intaphernes his life. Be pleased to know then, Madam, that this Prince riding safely along the banks of this little River, hoping still to meet with us again, least he should be forced to arrive at a place where he thought you was, without any Train or Equipage; Love did so take up all the fa∣culties of his Soul, that he scarcely knew what he did, or saw. On the other side, the King of Assyria who seemed as deep in contemplation as Intaphernes, though accord∣ing to his naturall impetuosity he went as fast as if he had a great journy to go, he was also on the banks of this River, with one Page only; So as Intaphernes came towards the King of Assyria, as the King of Assyria came towards Intaphernes: who being both of them in deep studies, they passed so neer each other, that there Horses start∣ing at the same time made both of them think themselves assaulted; So that rowsing out of their studies, and stopping their Horses, they looked sternly upon each other, to know who it was that assavlted them: and both knowing each other, the King of Assyria he thought that Intaphernes intended to all upon him, as Intaphernes thought that the King of Assyria intended to put a new affront upon him: So as both being high in anger, they first looked upon one another as men who had dispositions to quarrell. Yet Intaphernes gave him a Salute, but it was with so many signs of indig∣nation, that his respects did not deminish the King of Assyria's fury: For as soon as Intaphernes had saluted him, he went two paces back, and began to speak in a haughty and proud tone: For ought I see (sayd he in a most scornfull manner) you are as insolent here, as you were ambitious in Babylon, and it seems also that you have been most unjust in Bythinia, in being so bold as to cause Arsamones to imprison me, pur∣posely to make me marry one, whom I do not think worthy to be the slave of whom I adore. Oh Sir, (sayd Intaphernes) you extreamly wrong me, do not urge me against my will to forget I have seen you upon a Throne, least I should not brook it: For, Sir, hitherto I never failed in my due respects unto you; I was never more ambitious at Babylon then did become me, and was so far from forcing you to marry my Sister, that I must tell you, that she did more resist Arsamones, then you did, not being so base as ever to think of being Wife unto a Prince, who hath so much scorned her, and

wronged me. Therfore, Sir, I beseech you, with all the Reverence I owe unto you, as Son unto the Queen Nitocris, do not force me to cast of all those respects: I cannot tell what thou meanest (replyed the King of Assyria sharply) but I am sure I cannot brook the insolency of a Subject, whose duty is to reverence me as much in my Fet∣ters as if I were upon the Throne. Upon these words the King of Assyria drawing his Sword he forced Intaphernes to draw his also, but it was only at first to defend himself from the King of Assyria's blows: And indeed, this generous Prince striving to overcom his resentments did recoil some paces in defending himself; and speaking again, in the name of the Gods, Sir, (sayd he unto him) do not urge me any further, for my patience can hold no longer: wish only that thy Valour may hold out (replyed the King of Assyria, in pressing harder upon him) unless thou wilt feel the sharpness of mine. After this, Madam, Intaphernes being not able to endure any longer, he did not only fight in defence of his life, but also to revenge himself. And his Page told me of such Prodigies which he did, which are not to be conceived un∣less one had seen them. For indeed, Madam, though the King of Assyria had fought with the Illustrious Cyrus, and your self, Madam, had been the Prise of the Combate, yet this violent Prince could not have fought with more Courage. But as Intapher∣nes had all the sincerity of a most brave man, so he told all those unto whom he re∣lated the passage, that if the King of Assyria had stood any thing upon his Guard, he should have found a hard task to have vanquished him: and his modesty made him say, that if that valiant Prince had not precipitated himself unto his Armes, in striving to finish the Combate quickly, he had not been overcome. Indeed, Madam, the King of Assyria having wounded himself in striving to gain the Crupper, his Sword being broke, and he run through the right arme with a touch from his Enemy, his great heart was constrained to yeeld. Yet Intaphernes would not abuse his Victory, by insulting over his unfortunate Enemy, as unjust as he was. But on the contrary, he used many generous expressions; he asked him whether he would be pleased that he should con∣duct him, offering to hold him up, seeing he was not able to sit on horse-back: but this furious Prince would have only his Page to help him; he forbad Intaphernes to come neer him, and commanded him to retire. Since thou art still my Subject, though my Conqueror (sayd this violent Prince unto him) I command the to get out of my Presence, for I cannot any longer endure a man who hath ruined all my hopes, sub∣verted all my designs, and hath retarded either my death or my happiness. These ambiguous words which Intaphernes could not understand, mooving him to think that his sorrows for being overcom did distract the liberty of his mind; he began to pitty him, and offer again to help him, but he fell into such a Chafe, that Intaphernes seeing some Souldiers a far off coming that way, he was forced to retire.

In the mean time, in lieu of going unto the Castle where you, Madam, were, he re∣turned back, being resolved not to present himself unto you, Madam, nor unto Cyrus, nor unto the Prince his Father untill you were on your march: Conceiving that the King of Assyria was in such a condition as he would not be able to follow. And in∣deed, Madam, this Prince having happily met with us, some four Furlongs from the place where he fought, we went to wait upon you, Madam, at the house where you stayed, and where the Prince Intarhernes had the honour to be presented unto you that night, by the Illustrious Cyrus.

Orcames having ended his Relation, Mandana thanked him for the pains which he had taken in satisfying her desires, and to testifie how attentive she had been, she re∣peated the principall passages which he had related: But since the last words of the As∣syrian King had made some impression in the mind of Mandana, she asked Doralisa what she thought was the meaning of those words, that Intaphernes by vanquishing the King of Assyria, he had ruined all his hopes, subverted all his designs, and had re∣tarded either his death or his happines: For truly (added he) as the state of things stand, it is not easie to conceive what in any reason he could hope for, nor what designs he could have which might be advantageous unto him; Nor could he fear any death from a Rivall who released him, nor could he ever imagine any happiness from me: And yet it is to be supposed, that he spoke not these without some cause. I assure you, Ma∣dam, replyed Doralisa, to be so brave, so glorious, so violent, and so deep in love as the King of Assyria is, and to be vanquished within a hundred Furlongs of his Rivall, and of his Mistress, is enough to make him not know wha the sayd: and therefor

there is no heed to be taken unto what he sayd. Whilst Doralisa was saying so, Mar∣tesia was silent, though since she knew of the engagement between those two Princes, she understood those words better then they: yet since the King of Assyria was to stay behind, and since in such a condition as was not to be feared, she seemed as if she did not understand them: And the Princess herself concurring with the opinion of Doralisa, did make no further reflection upon them, but went on with her repetition of the Adventures of Atergatis, Istrina, and Intaphernes. After which, all the rest of the Conversation was only of pleasant and diverting passages, of which the poor Beri∣sa was the subject; For upon good examination of what Orcames had sayd, the Prin∣cess Mandana did conclude that there was no Court in the world without a Berisa, and somtimes many Berisa's: being sure she knew some at Themiscira and at Sinope. Doralisa for her part, she knew some at Sardis, Pherenice remembred many at Suta, and Orcames professed he knew above a dozen at Babylon. After all which, the Princess re∣membring how it was resolved to be stirring betimes in the morning, she dismissed Or∣cames and retired, preserving her fidelity so entirely for Cyrus, that she would not so much as call unto her memory, any thing she heard of the Assyrian King: but her mind being clear from all manner of Objects, she slept as quietly as one that had no manner of causes to fear any thing.