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 MAZARES.

WEre I to speak of my Master only unto the illustrious Cyrus, my Relation should then be much shorter then now it must: And before I entertain two great Princesses unto whom he is unknown (though Persons of their Quality do commonly know, though they have not seen one another) I conceive it is expedient to recite in few words the beginning of his Life, to the end they may better know the Sequel.

It is not at all requisite (said the Princess Araminta) that you should trouble your self in telling us any Adventures which have chanced unto the Prince Mazares since the time he came from Babylon, until the time he was left for dead at Sinope in a Fishers Cabin: for we know how he could not force himself to love the Princess Istrina, though the King of Assyria used all arguments to perswade him: and that he became in love with the Prin∣cess Mandana, whether he would or no, at the same time when she triumphantly entered that great Town: Nor are we ignorant how he demeaned himself when he was there: We know also how, prompted more by the dictates of his Love then either his Reason or Generosity, he invented to come out of that Town clothed in white when it was a Snow; and afterwards being in Sinope, how the same passion was predominate over his generosity, did prompt him to deceive her, and carry her away both from the King of Assyria and the illustrious Cyrus; and how to punish him for that rash act, the Gods permitted him to suffer shipwrack.

Madam, replyed Orsanus, when you shall know what I intend to relate, I know not then how you will interpret the intentions of the Gods, since at the same instant when they brought him to the very brink of Ruine, then they rather saved him: But before I explain this Riddle unto you, I must tell you that it was the greatest and most admirable effect of the Princess Mandana's Beauty, so to disturb and pervert the Reason of this Prince, as made him capable of doing any unjust act; since certainly there was never any of his Quality, whose birth, inclination and education was better: Moreover, the dispositions of Nature drawn from his Parents could not chuse but be most excellently good; since it is most certain, that never Prince was more virtuous then the Prince of Saces, nor any Prin∣cess more heroique then the Queen Tarina, my Masters mother: But since her virtue was famous throughout all Asia, I will speak no more of it; only say this, that if the Prince Mazares her son be not as victorious as any, it is strange: But as an addition to all you know or possibly can know of him, it is requisite I tell you, that the night preceding the Princess Mandana's shipwrack, and whilest the Prince Mazares out of his respect durst not come into her Cabin, he was sensible of as much sorrow as a generous heart could possi∣bly comprehend: and let me tell the illustrious Cyrus, that I am most confident, if he understood the sorrows which he apprehended after that sad accident, he would sooner pity then accuse him; he repented of his crime, though he could not of his passion, above a hundred times, and resolved as oft to expiate it; afterwards when he looked her in the face, and observed what alteration in her complexion so short a time had produced, his heart was so strucken with remorse, as he went in all haste to the Pilot, for fear he should alter his mind, and commanded him to take the way of Sinope, with intentions to restore the Princess either into the hands of Ciaxares or the illustrious Cyrus: But oh Heavens, how fatal was this Order, as just as it was, unto him that commanded it, and unto her for whose sake it was intended? For as soon as the Pilot received it, and in obedient order thereunto, intending to carry Mandana unto Sinope, he turned the Rudder, but

overturned the Ship, and left us all in a perishing condition: Never since did I think it permitable to censure the intentions of the Gods, when they do either good or evil unto men: But that it is much safer to admire their Providence, then to dive too far into their Reasons: And indeed, to speak according unto meer natural Reason, who would not think that a Prince in love, who had her he loved in his power, and who had so much virtues as to repent the taking her away, and resolved to set her at liberty again, that such a one, I say, did rather deserve a Recompence then Punishment? and yet the Prince Mazares suffered shipwrack: he thought himself the cause of that Princess death whom he adored; and suffered more torture of Soul then ever any did; and the violence of his despair was much more like to be his ruine then his shipwrack; and doubtless it had been his death, had not the Gods most prodigiously sent him relief.

Be pleased to know Madam, that the owner of the Cabin (where the illustrious Ar∣tamenes saw Mazares dying, and where he received from his hand a rich Scarfe, which was the Princess Mandana's) being gone to fish a little before the storm did rise, and ad∣venturing so far into the Sea that he could not recover the shore, he was constrained to let go his Boat unto the mercy of the Wind and Waves, was at last driven to the foot of a Rock which rise up in the Sea, and where a Ship had been split, but where his Boat be∣ing light did safely arrive, so that he got upon the Rock, and holding his Boat with a Rope, he resolved to rest there till the storm was over, and so he did, until the Tempest beginning to calm, he discovered an old man upon a plank which kept him above water, and who endeavoured to gain that Rock, but he was so weak, and so far off, that needs must he perish, unless the Fisherman relieve him. Plain pity then moving the heart of this Fisherman, he made unto his assistance in his Boat, and took up this man, whose name was Tyburtus, by Nation a Greek, who was alwayes with Mazares as a Tutor to read all Sciences befitting his Quality unto him. He was no sooner in the Boat, but so weak he was, that ready he was to fall into a swoond: Yet when he was recovered, he told how he had been shipwracked, but told him not how it was in carrying away the Princess Mandana, lest it should abate his zeal to serve him: So that this Fisher-man cheering him up after his homely manner, he offered him his Cabin to retreat unto, which Tiburtus ac∣cepted of, in hopes to hear some tydings of some that were shipwracked with him, or whether his Master perished among the rest: The Sea being then smoother then before, this Fisher-man began to row about; but since he had lost one of his oars in the Storm, he was a long time before he recovered his shore, and so long indeed, that he came not to his Cabin until Artamenes was gone away. You may imagine Madam, hovv Tiburtus vvas amazed to find the Prince Mazares there, and in that case, for he vvas not yet reco∣vered out of his svvoond vvherein the illustrious 〈◊〉〈◊〉 left him: as soon as he savv him, he vvas extreamly joyed; but vvhen he savv him in that pitiful case, his extream joys vvere converted into extream sorrovvs: yet since he vvas a man of an universal knovvledg in all things, and reasonably vvell versed in Physick, he endeavored to try vvhether any life yet remained in that Prince, and whether there were any possibility of helping him: and up∣on his careful observance, he discovered his heart did beat: so that using all the helps which the poverty of that place would afford him, he employed them so well, that Ma∣zares revived, but vvith a spirit so little of himself, that spying Tiburtus at his beds side, he asked him vvhere Mandana vvas? Aftervvards he pronounced the name of Arta∣menes four or five times; and being for an hour after in a confused distraction of Reason, he knevv not vvhether or no Artamenes vvas his Rival, or vvhether Mandana vvas alive or dead, or indeed whether himself was living. But at last, Tiburtus endeavoring by his discourse to reduce his Reason into its right Region, he began by degrees to know things as really they were, and by consequence to fall into his first despair: Yet had he the comfort to see Tiburtus neer him, whom he ever loved: In seeing him, his hopes re∣vived also, that happily Mandana might escape as well as he, but his hopes of so much happiness were so weak, that they could not induce him to take any care of himself, or to receive any thing: In the mean while, Tiburtus considering how neer he was unto Sinope, and in a place where the illustrious Artamenes had been, and might come or send again, he took the Master of the Cabin aside, and conjured him, that as he had saved his life, so he would do him another good office, without which the first was all to no purpose: But lest there should not be prevalency enough in his prayers, he charmed him with a great Medal of Gold hanging in a Chain of the same Mettel, which the Queen Nit••cris gave him when he was waiting upon his Master at Babylon.

The very sight of so rich a Present, so dazled the eyes of the poor Fisher, that he did absolutely promise to do what ere he would have him, though it were with most desperate hazard of his life: So that Tiburtus without any loss of time caused him to take the Prince Mazares into his Boat, and to clothe him very well, lest the sharpness of the ayr might do him harm. The Prince Mazares at first was very unwilling unto what Tiburtus desired, saying he was loth to part from that place neer which his Princess perished, and that he had rather dye there then in any other place: But Tiburtus promising he should not be carryed very far; and that it was to such a place as where it was more probable to hear of his Princess, and where he was in less danger of falling into the hands of Ciaxares, he be∣gan to submit unto his will: Yet not at the first; For Tiburtus (said he unto him) since death is that I look for, why may not the King of Medes or Artamenes give it me as well as any other way? Although it be all one to you (said Tiburtus to him) yet it concerns the King your Father, and the Queen your Mother, and all the people over whom you are destined to Raign; therefore I beseech you, follow my advice, and harken unto Reason. Alas Tiburtus (said he) that man who cares not for life, cares not for a Kingdom: How∣ever, replyed Tiburtus, though you do not care for either, yet grieve not them that are interested in you, and who would be much concerned if you should fall into the power of a Prince who would treat you as a Delinquent: And truly I am such a one, replyed he, upon whom they would act no Injustice, though they proceeded never so rigorously against me: but Tiburtus, do what you will with me. After this Mazares was carryed into the Boat; and all the people in the Cabin had orders to say, If Artamenes sent to enquire of him, that he dyed as soon as he left him. In the mean time, the lamentable condition in which the Prince Mazares was, would not permit Tiburtus to carry him far off, and all their provisions in the Boat were so small, as they would not last above two or three days. This wise old man being not of that Country, knew not what Course to steer; and since he was far off his own Country (for be pleased to know it is a great di∣stance between Sinope and the Country of the Saces which borders upon the Asiatique Scithians) he could not tell where he should recruit himself any neerer: He had about him but small matters to subsist upon, the shipwrack having left him only that Chain of Gold which he gave the Fisher-man, and one other Jewel of a very considerable value; yet the Prince Mazares by chance had some rich things about him, so that by them he hoped to find subsistence for a while, but the difficulty was where to land in a safe place: Not knowing then what to resolve upon, they put off from Sinope, unresolved what course to steer: Yet the Fisher-man seeing Tiburtus in such a perplexity, told him, that if he would trust him, he would carry him into such a place where none should find them: Then acquainting him how he was not born at that place where he dwelt, but in a little Isle which was inhabited by none but Fishers, amongst whom he had many kindred, Ti∣burtus consented he should carry them thither: And this Fisher-man promised my Ma∣ster, to tell him in that place, whether any news was heard of the Princess Mandana, or whether they had found her body: So not being able to take any other Course, they came to this little Isle, which indeed was no more then a huge Rock, not above a days journey from Sinope: He who was their Guide, lodged them with a sister of his, whose husband was a Fisher like himself, and who entertained them very humanely: In the mean while, since it is the pleasure of the Gods to preserve Mazares whether he would or no, he lived when as he hated life, since he beleeved Mandana dead, but it was a life so lamen∣table, that death was much more sweet then it unto him: The little hopes he had of Man∣dana's escape, did now begin to dye; for the Fisher-man, according to his promise, wen•• the day after to enquire, but could hear no news either of her or her Corps: yet this last circumstance leaving some far-fetched hopes in him, which induced him not to depart from that barbarous place; Tiburtus desired the Fisher-man to tell him once more that the Corps of Mandana was found: For as Tiburtus did verily conjecture, that this Princess was really dead, and that though she were living, yet it were good to wear her out of Mazares his memory; therefore he conceived it expedient not to leave any more such uncertain hopes in him, which might aggravate his sorrows, and much multiply his per∣plexities. The Fisher-man at his request did tell this officious lye, and the Prince Ma∣zares grieved so, as it was easie to see the difference between an undoubted misfortune, and one in which there was some incertainty: When the first raptures of his despair were past, he told Tiburtus, that he would go and dye over the Tomb of Mandana, and con∣tinued in this mind many days, but at last the perswasions of Tiburtus did alter his mind;

but all his perswasions could not prevail when he moved him to return unto the King of Saces his Father: No, no, Tiburtus (would he say) you shall not have your mind in eve∣ry thing, nor will I live as you would have me: It's well I satisfie you so far as not to kill my self, without publishing my crime and my misfortune unto all Asia: Live I will Ti∣burtus, because you would not have me dye, but I will live only to lament that Princess whose life I destroyed: Oh unfortunate Prince (would he cry out) if thou hadst any de∣sign to betray any one, why didst thou not betray the Assyrian King in favour of thy Princess? and why didst thou not really release her? Why didst thou not convey her into the hands of the invincible Artamenes, who only is worthy of her? Then would she at the least have had an esteem or friendship for thee: and though thou wert the most unfor∣tunate man that ever breathed, yet it is better being so, then being her Ravisher. Oh most insensible Sot that I was, couldst thou ever hope to be loved by doing that which was most likely to procure hatred? Had I not an illustrious Example of this before my eyes on one of the greatest Kings in all Asia? who carryed her away, and got nothing by his violence but her hatred: and yet I must carry her away also, but the Gods have most se∣verely punished me for it: If my death would have satisfied that Justice, certainly I should have perished in the same place with her: but since they knew that her death would pu∣nish me most severely, they keep me alive to punish me with most horrid torments. Thus Madam, did the Prince Mazares argue with himself: It was in vain for Tiburtus to tell him he must submit unto the Will of the Gods; for his sorrows were too great to suffer him: All endeavors to put him in memory of honour and glory were also in vain: Am∣bition was dead in his Soul, and he thought nothing in this World now more glorious then eternally to lament the death of Mandana: yet did Tiburtus still importune him to return unto his Father, and did speak of it so much, that this unfortunate Prince seeing he could not perswade Tiburtus to let him live an unknown solitary life, resolved to steal away from him, and to go into some Cell, and lament his miseries alone: In order unto this, he hired a young Fisherman to let him pass in the night time over the Water, which was not above fifty furlongs from the Isle, and left a Letter with him for Tiburtus, to this effect.

The unfortunate MAZARES unto the wise TIBURTUS.

SInce I see all your sapient admonitions cannot infuse Reason into my Soul, which is sensible of nothing but its own sorrows, I thought it best to part from you, lest my miseries should infect you: But to the end that you may justifie your self unto the King and Queen, let them see by this Letter, that since I do not think my self worthy to be their Son, nor to write unto them, I will for ever renounce all civil society: yet tell them, that it was Love only which made me a Criminal; and that if I had never loved the divine and unfortunate Mandana, I had never done any thing unworthy either of them or you, who have given me a million of good advices, which this passion only did keep me from following.

MAZARES.

This Prince then having given this Letter unto the young Fisher-man who carryed him over the River, and bought him a Horse, also caused a very poor sute of Clothes to be made for him at a little Town whither he used to go and sell his Fish, he took the next way that he found; for his sorrows made him not care which way he went. In the mean while the young Fisher-man returned to the Isle, and gave Tiburtus the Letter which the Prince did send him, and which did drive him into such excessive sorrow, as never was greater: But all unprofitable Lamentations were but loss of so much time, and therefore he imme∣diately left the Isle to seek his Master, and went unto the next Town to buy a Horse, and to take that way which the young Fisher-man told him he took: but it being a good while since the Prince did go away, he could not overtake him; yet had he the comfort as he rid on a day and a half together to hear two or three times that he travelled that way; but his grief was, that they who saw him pass, reported that he kept no high ways. Tiburtus being very old, was not able to travel so long without rest, unless he should fall sick, so that age and weariness compelled him to stay twelve or fifteen days. As good fortune was, he found a little Church, dedicated unto Ceres, standing in the midst of a field, without any other building about it but only the Priests house which joyned unto it, so that finding himself very ill he stayed there, and desired help: Indeed the Priest had a

great compassion and care of him; for Tyburtus being a man of great ingenuity and parts, made himself soon known unto this charitable Host to deserve relief, yet could he not recover any health; all that could be done unto him, was only to prolong his miser∣able life until a prodigy conducted me to the place where he was, as I shall relate unto you. You know Sir (said Orsanus unto Cyrus, that when you went from Sinope into Armenia, I asked leave of you to return unto the King my Master, though I was ex∣treamly sorry I could not carry the Prince Mazares with me; so that parting from you, loadned with your gifts, ravished with admiration, and charmed with your virtues, I took the best way to go unto the place at which I aimed. The third day of my journey, when I was wandring out of my way, I discovered a great Plain, in the midst of which I saw a little Church, and a very pleasant house: It being not very late, and I weary, I went thither, not only with intentions to inquire of the way, but to desire the favour of a nights lodging, and I was received in with as much humanity as I could either expect or desire: The Priest made some excuses; that his accommodation was not so good as other times it might have been, telling me, that those few servants he had were so busie about a stranger that was sick in his house, and so ill, that they thought him a dead man, as his entertainment would not be so good as he wished it were.

As he was thus speaking unto him, one came to tell him, that the stranger was very ill, and desired to speak with him, that he might impart a secret of some concernment unto him: I hearing this, did desire to see him, and not knowing well why, I went un∣to the Chamber of this sick man: But oh heavens, how was I amazed, when I saw him to be Tyburtus, whom I thought drown'd with the Prince our Master? My wonder was so great that I could not express it by my words: But after a little recollection of my self, I went unto his Beds side, and the sight of me surprized him no less then he did me: The Priest also perceiving by our actions that we knew each other very well, and that we much rejoyced at the sight of each other, was amazed as well as me: Tyburtus holding out his hand unto me, gave thanks unto the Gods for affording him so much happiness as to im∣brace me before he died; then did I endeavour to perswade him his disease was not so bad as he thought it, but he knew the greatness of his pain better then I did. No, no, Orsa∣nus, said he unto me, let me not flatter my self, the Gods do not work miracles every day, and I have rendred my self so unworthy of them, that I ought not to murmure at their wills; I know that all remedies are in vain, and I perceive the end of my doleful daies is at hand, therefore I sent unto this wise and charitable Clergy-man to receive a se∣cret from me, which was not fit to be buried with me in my Tomb; But since the Gods have so fitly brought you hither, I shall not trouble him with it, since it does not at all concern him to know it, but shall in few words reveal it unto you. The Priest hearing Tyburtus say so, did withdraw, purposely to leave him liberty to speak what he pleased: Tyburtus first assuring him, that he changed his mind not for want of any esteem of him, but only because the business concerned one which I did know, and which he did not. After that the Priest was gone, I began to condole with him the death of our dear Ma∣ster; but Tyburtus stopping me very short, told me all that I have told you: After this (said he) you may well know, that the Gods in bringing you hither did intend I should acquaint you that the Prince Mazares is not dead, to the end you may go and seek him, as I intended all the daies of your life, until you have found him out. This Orsanus was my design, and this ought to be yours, if you love your Master, if you had not happi∣ly arrived, I had ingaged the Priest by oath to acquaint the King of Saces, that the Prince his Son was not dead: But since you are here, I thought it not expedient to let any Sub∣ject of the King of Medes know that he was living; for he hath procured unto himself such terrible enemies in the persons of Ciaxares, the King of Assyria, and the invinci∣ble Artamenes, by carrying away the Princess Mandana, that I think it good none know it but your self. Tyburtus having done speaking, and I promising him to seek our illu∣strious Master throughout all Asia, he seemed to be a little more cheerful, so that we talked at least two hours concerning the Prince Mazares. And as he understood, since he came to that place, that the Princess Mandana was not dead, but that she was in the power of the Pontean King, and that it was thought he carried her unto Armenia, he gave me advice, that after I had sought a while in Cappadocia, to go thither also, it be∣ing to be supposed, that Mazares would either be there, or else be neer the Princess whom he adored. But Madam, why should I trouble you any longer with relations of Tybur∣tus, who only languished in life till he saw me? For as soon as he had imparted his trou∣bled

soul unto me, he grew worse, and the next day died: I took his loss with much grief, so that my joyes at my Masters being alive were mixed with sorrows. In the mean time, after I had payed my last duties unto dead Tyburtus, and rendred a thousand thanks unto the Priest for his charitable cares of him, I went and wandred I knew not well whi∣ther, yet I conceived it my best course would be, to be neer the place where Mandana was said to be, since in all probability that Prince who was in Love with her, and believed her to be dead, would seek all opportunities to see her risen from the dead as soon as he should hear of it: I resolved therefore upon two courses, the one, to send a servant which vvaited upon me, vvho vvas both faithful and vvitty, unto the Queen of Saces, to com∣fort her vvith her Sons being alive, and to tell her, that I thought it expedient not to pub∣lish it until he vvas found. The other vvas, that after I had vvandred a vvhile about Si∣nope, vvhere I feared he remained sick, I vvould then vvend tovvards Armenia, vvhere it vvas reported the Princess Mandana vvas carried: and according to these resolutions, I dispatched my servant, then inquired vvith all possible diligence vvhether I could hear a∣ny thing of Mazares, but could not meet with the least intelligence of him in all Cappa∣docia: After which, I went unto Artaxates, whil'st the Army of Ciaxares believed Man∣dana to be kept up close in a Castle upon the River Araxes: And as I believed as others did, that if the Prince Mazares were alive, he would be also at Artaxates, I went from place to place, and from Temple to Temple in quest of him: Then vvhen I heard of any general Muster of Souldiers, I looked every Souldier in the face, in hopes to find him: Then it came into my phancy, seeing I could not hear any thing of him, that perhaps he vvas so subtil, as to find out means to get into the Castle, vvhere the Princess Mandana vvas supposed to be, and the Princess of Pontus, before vvhom I speak then vvas; so that I resolved to stay in that place, and vvait for the event of the War, having no man∣ner of other hopes to find him I vvas in quest of. And indeed Sir (said Orsanus unto Cyrus) I stayed there, until you by your incomparable valour did take that Castle vvith a fevv Forces, in the sight of an innumerable uumber of armed enemies. It is impossi∣ble for me to tell you hovv sad my soul vvas, vvhen I savv that the Princess Mandana vvas not in the Castle; and I may say it vvithout any dissimulation, that you Sir vvere not more grieved not to find Mandana there, then I vvas not to find my Master, nor knevv vvhere to search either for her or him, for I sought for her only in hopes to find him there: Hovvever, patience is my best remedy; and since I knevv you took all imaginea∣ble care to discover vvhere that Princess vvas, I resolved to follovv the same course you steered: But since I vvould not be knovvn unto you, though you treated me very favour∣ably at Sinope, because I vvould not acquaint you vvith the true reason vvhich brought me into Armenia, nor had any mind to dissemble vvith you; therefore I shunned your sight vvith a possible care, I remained therefore kept close in Artaxates, till I under∣stood you thought the Princess Mandana vvas at Susa, and that she vvould cross the Country of Matenes, vvhich joyns upon Armenia and Cicilia, and then I designed to take that vvay: And having found a guide, vvho vvas very vvell versed in the vvayes, he conducted me so short a cut, that I overtook Abradates; and the King of Pontus, as they conducted this Princess, before they separated, and by consequence before you fought vvith the King of Susiana: 'Tis true, I did not think it convenient to shevv my self unto the Princess Mandana, but contenting my self with looking upon her, and the Troops which passed by and guarded her: But since I could not find him I sought for a∣mongst them, I thought that happily he might follow at a distance; and understanding that this Princess was to imbarque at a Cicilian Port to sail unto Ephesus, I got thither be∣fore hand, inquiring in every house where strangers used to lodg, whether such a one was not there. I went also into every Ship which was to put forth, whether any Passen∣gers were to imbarque; but do what I could, both before the Princess Mandana came thither, and when she was there, and after she was gone, I could not meet with the least knowledg of him; so that I stayed still by the water side, after I had seen the Prin∣cess Mandana imbarque, as sad a soul as ever lived; and truly my fear was, that he had either took some desperate course with himself, or at least was dead of extream melan∣choly, in some obscure place where none knew him; for since I understood by several persons which I had seen in the Armenian Army, that the Prince Mazares was not re∣turned unto the King his Father, and since I could not find him about the Princess Man∣dana, I could conclude no other but that he was dead; all hopes being then quite extin∣guished of ever meeting with him, I resolved to return into my own Country; for though

I promised Tiburtus to vvander all my life long until I found him, yet since no hope vvas left of finding him, I thought it vvas in vain to be over-strict in keeping that promise: Thus then I resolved to return, and in order to that I enquired the best and safest Ways: and I vvas informed that the shortest and best vvay vvas to go along the River Cydne, and to leave that great Mountain in Cicilie, vvhich is called the black Mountain, on the left hand: That aftervvards I must pass into Armenia, and get into the River Araxes, vvhere I should need no Guide, since I knevv the Way very vvell from thence into my ovvn Country.

But as the Gods are sometimes pleased to make a Tempest drive a Ship unto a Port, in lieu of dashing it against the Rocks, so they caused me to wander out of my way most hap∣pily; and in lieu of taking that way which conducted unto the River Cydne, I took ano∣ther Rode, which led me so far into that prodigious Mountain whereof I spoke, that I knew not which way to go back again: Yet since it was extream hot Weather, and all other parts of Cicily was an open Country, I was not at the first sorry I had mistaken my way for another where the tops of the Rocks which did hang one over another was a great shadow unto me in my travel: But at last, when I saw no living creature but a sort of lit∣tle wilde Beasts, which the Inhabitants of that Country call Squillaques, which naturally are apt to stealing, and which follow all them that pass this way to filch something from them, I confess that I repented my going so far in this Way, principally out of fear lest I should wander so far in this hideous Mountain, that I could not get out again when night came on: so that conceiving easier for me to turn back by the paths I came, then to follow an unknown Rode where I could meet with none to enquire of, I faced about, and return∣ed the same way I came: but coming unto a place where there was several beaten paths, I mistook the right, and went into one by which I did not come: I went streight forward a long while, thinking I had been right, and yet methought I saw many things which I observed not before; and other times methought I knew where I was: but sometimes hoping I was right, and sometimes fearing I was wrong, I still went forward, impatiently desiring to be from amongst those Rocks: for often I had a huge high Mountain on my right hand, and a horrid Precepice on my left, and the best way I had rough and rocky. I ask you pardon Sir, for insisting so long upon a description of these things: But I must needs confess they made such a deep impression in my mind, that I could not chuse but describe them as they were. After I had travelled in this manner a long while, and came unto a place where there was no track, I was forced to stay, because the night coming on apace, I was in some danger of falling into some Precipice, if I had continued on little longer: I lighted then from my horse, and putting the bridle upon my arm (for there was no tree in that place to tye him unto) I sat down under a Rock; and leaning upon another little one, I resolved to take up my Inn there, and to keep my self if possible from sleeping, lest my Horse should break loose, or some wilde beast come unto me; And in∣deed I passed away almost all the night without a wink of sleep, or having any desire unto it, as well because the obscurity of that desart place, which carries a kind of terror with it, that moves not much unto sleep, as because I heard a great multitude of those filching Cattle continually pass by me: But at last, being a little us'd to the noise which they made, and being very weary with travelling amongst these rugged Rocks without one bit of meat, about an hour before day I fell asleep against my will, and waked not before Sun rise, and I beleeve I had slept longer, if one of these crafty beasts, following their natural inclina∣tion, had not awaked me, by drawing out of my pocket the Table-book, in which I had writ down the Ways by which I was to go; so that though they say these Squitaques are commonly as cunning at theeving as are any I acedemonians, yet he that which stole my Table-book did awake me: I no sooner opened my eyes, but seeing this Animal, running away with my Table-book in his mouth, I got on horseback and rid after him, crying as loud as I could to affright him and make him let it fall, and after I had chased him a long while, he turned short behind a great Rock, and I made all possible speed lest I should lose the sight of him, and when I turned where he did, I saw he had let fall what he had stoln from me, and ran away as fast as ever he could. But Sir, I was strangely amazed, when following this little Animal, I found it had conducted me into a little Plain about 15 or 20 furlongs in length, and ten or twelve broad, boundered with the most pleasant Wood that is in the whole World; beyond which was a huge and sterile Mountain, which seemed to touch the Clouds, and made the most terrible and most pleasing object both that ever was beheld; for Nature had so moulded it from top to bottom, that without a

sight of it, it is impossible to conceive how well the greenness of this pleasant Wood, op∣posite to this ragged Mountain, did please all beholders: When I first espied it, I stopt, not knowing whether I should venture into a Wood whose paths were unknown unto me: yet since I knew no safer way then that, I thought it better to wander in a pleasant shade, then amongst a heap of rubbish Rocks, where not a pile of grass did grow. I went over then this little Plain, in the midst of which I spyed an Arbour, which the rays of the Sun could never penetrate though never so hot, and the Trees of it vvere perpetually green, being composed of Cedars, Pines, Mirtles, Evves, as such like Trees, vvho keeps those leaves all Winter green vvhich the Spring time gives them; and the Wonder of the Ob∣ject vvas, that these Trees did grovv amongst the Rocks, and all the Rocks vvere covered vvith such variety of all sorts of Moss, and of as many several colours, as that the Rainbovv had not more nor more delighting: The variety of these Trees, and the perpetual fresh∣ness of the leaves, made this Wood incomparably pleasant. I wandered then through this great and pleasing Wood, where a thousand several sorts of pretty birds did make a most harmonious eccho, testifying by the little fear they had of me, that the place was but seldom frequented: After I had gone five or six hundred paces, I espyed on my right hand a very pleasant Fountain, which boyling up amongst a heap of Pibbles, covered over with a pretty Moss of Emerald colour, did make a little Rivolet, and ran turning and winding it self along the side of the Wood, opposite to that aspiring Mountain of which I spoke before. As I stood by the side of this Christal Fountain, I observed a little path which parted from the great Rode, and did lead towards the thick of the Wood; and after I had rested my self a while by this Fountain, I followed that path, which always ascended, sometimes inclining towards the right hand, and sometimes towards the left, because the hill was too steep to go straight up: When I was in the midst of this Woody Rock, O Heavens, how I was amazed, when I discovered a great Cave which went into the Rock, and by it the Prince Mazares sitting upon a stone! who at the noise I made turned his head towards me, and presently knew me, and gave me demonstrations to know him: I was so exceedingly startled at the sight of him, that I was a while and knew not what I did, nor alight from my Horse: my eyes were so full of tears, and my heart so full of sorrow, that stood I like a stone, and knew not whether what I saw was real. But at last, my dear Master rising up, and naming me with a great cry, I revived out of my astonishment: so that lighting from my Horse, and tying him unto a Tree, I went and cast my self at his feet: But he immediately took me up, and embraced me with extraordi∣nary tenderness; My dear Orsanus, said he unto me, is it possible I should ever have a sight of you again? and will you force me whether I will or no to have some minutes of consolation in my life? Sir (said I unto him, with eyes swimming in tears, to see the me∣lancholy in his looks, and to imagine how sadly he had lived since I saw him) I do not intend to add minutes; but an age of consolation unto you, The sight of you indeed is most dear unto me (replyed he,) but Orsanus, since I have been the cause of my divine Mandana's death, no consolation can comfort me. But Sir (replyed I hastily) if I should tell you that the Princess Mandana lives, would not that be a comfort unto you? No Or∣sanus, replyed he, it would not, since I could not beleeve you: I should think it only your plot to draw me out of this sad solitude, wherein I live, and in which I am resolved to dye. Yet let me tell you, replyed I, that what I say is most certainly true, for this Mandana, who both you and I thought dead, I saw her alive with my own eyes. Ah Or∣sanus (cryed he out) I would I could beleeve this, and dye immediately after; that I might not be deluded by so pleasing a lye, and be for ever delivered from all the miseries which I endure. But Sir (replyed I) is it possible this Desart should be so little fre∣quented, and this Cell in which you inhabit so unknown unto all men, that not one of them should come and tell you how all Asia is in Arms for the Princess Mandana; that the illustrious Artamenes is no more Artamenes, but known to be Cyrus, Son to Cambises King of Persia; That Ciaxares after he had imprisoned him, did release him, and made him General of his Army; That the King of Pontus, after he had lost all his Kingdoms, and flying away in a Ship, did save the Princess Mandana's life, immediately after the fury of the bo••sterous Waves had separated her from you; That the invincible Cyrus, thinking that Prince had carryed her into Armenia, drew the War thither, and became Master of it; That in lieu of releasing the Princess Mandana, he released only the Sister of his Rival, that is, the Princess of Pontus; That afterwards the King her Brother being reported to be at Susa with the Paincess Mandana, and that she was to imbarque for Cicilie, conducted

by the King of Susiana, and by the Queen Panthea, Cyrus followed Abradates, de∣feated him, and took the Queen his Wife a Prisoner, in lieu of releasing the Princess Mandana, that the King of Pontus, according to his design, imbarqued with the Princess of Medea, and steered towards Ephesus.

Whil'st I was speaking thus, the Prince Mazares hearkened unto me with extraordi∣nary attention, and by his quick and piercing looks endeavoured to penetrate through my eyes into the bottom of my heart, to know whether what I spoke were sincere and really true; so that I perceiving that fain he would, but could not believe me: No, no, Sir (said I unto him) do not suspect me of any falshood, since the truths which now I tell you are so generally known, that there is not so much as a Shepheard in all Asia who knows not that Mandana is living, and that there is two hundred thousand men in Arms ready to release her. This Princess (added I) hath also passed so neer you, that cer∣tainly she hath seen the Cedar tops which grow in this your Desart: I am confident that I am not mistaken, for she might discover them as she went to imbarque: How Orsanus, said he, can I possibly believe Mandana not dead? Can I think those eyes of yours, which now look upon mine, hath seen her alive, and that she looked upon the tops of these Mountains? Ah Orsanus, if this be true, I am not so miserably unfortunate as I thought my self.

As this Prince was thus talking, I spyed coming out of the Wood a man admirably handsome, of a pleasant physiognomy, but seemed something melancholy, who being also as much surprized to find the Prince Mazares in conference with me, as I was to find my Master in such a solitude, we gazed upon each other with equal amazement: But the Prince Mazares calling him, Come Belesis (said he unto him) help to know whether Orsanus (of whom I have spoke so much unto you, and whom I reckoned amongst the losses which I thought I had sustained) do really tell me the truth. Then he whom my Master called Belesis, hearing my name, came forward, and saluting me with such civi∣lity as let me know that all which Mazares loved was dear unto him, I returned him a salute with much reverence; after which, my Master commanded me to relate all that I had before told him, obliging me very often to assure him, that I would speak in all sin∣cerity: Afterwards, asking me how I escaped the Shipwrack? how I came into Sicily? how I found out his Desart? and whether I knew what was become of Tyburtus? I fully satisfied his curiosity in all things, and acquainted him with the death of that wise old man Tyburtus, conceiving that he would apprehend his death with less sorrow at this time when he heard Mandana was alive, then if I should have deferred it; yet was he much perplexed at it, and did exceedingly lament him: And since Belesis and he did no∣thing else, since they were together, but make relations of their lives, and continually discourse of their misfortunes, he lamented the poor Tyburtus as much, as if be had been perfectly acquainted vvith him, though he knevv him not at all, but only by the report of the Prince Mazares. In the mean time, since I had a great desire to knovv hovv my Master came unto that place, and to learn vvho that stranger vvas; also vvhen they met, I took so much freedome upon me, as to ask him, beseeching him to pardon me if I vvere too bold, and to believe it proceeded from my very great affection to him: It is but just Orsanus, said he unto me, That a Prince of vvhom you have had so much care, and sought so long, ought to render you an account of himself: But that I may the more con∣veniently do it, follovv Belesis and me, and vve vvill shevv you our habitation: Alas Sir (said I, and follovved them) I believe your Palace is more beautiful vvithout then vvithin, and that there is a great difference betvveen your Grot and the Wood, besides it. You shall be a Judg of that presently; answered Belesis, and entring in with them, I was exceedingly astonished at the sight: For Sir, all Art and Nature together did ne∣ver make a place so beautiful in any place of the world, as Nature alone did in this: I found this Grot to be very deep and large, and yet not obscure, for the Mountain being very steep, there were several Windowes pierced through it, and gave light enough to discern all the rarities both without and within it; a thousand admirable congealations were the ornaments of this place, where one might behold Pillars, Arches, Trees, Flow∣ers, Leaves, Mosses, Urns, Tombs, and a thousand other such things, all of a sub∣stance, as clear and transparent as ever was any Christal in the world: At two sides of this wonder I saw two Fountains, which neither fwelling nor diminishing, kept constant at the same level, the water certainly having some undiscernable course through some crannies of the Rock, according to the measure they received from others. When I se∣riously

had viewed these rare and delightful wonders, I could not chuse but admire at the providence of God, who had brought the Prince Mazares into so pleasant a Wilderness. Well Orsanus (said Belesis unto me, and seeing my admiration) Do you think the Prince Mazares did erre when he called this Grot a Palace? No Sir (said I unto him) But I must confess, I do not understand how you live for want of Victuals: You shall know that immediately, said he unto me: Then going unto the entry of this Cave, he called a servant which he had there, who came out of another little and less beautiful Room which joyned to the other, and commanded him to give me something to eat, to let me see their garden, and to have a care of my horse, which was set in a little Cave further off, for all this Mountain was full of them; and accordingly, this servant unto Belesis, whose name was Arcas, after he had given me a good Dinner, did carry me some fifty paces further unto the foot of the Rock, and shewed me a garden so full of all manner of Herbs, Roots, Pease, Beans, and such like, and Arcas told me, that sometimes he went to Hunt, that I wondred how men who sought for death should find subsistance in such a place. Arcas also told me, that his Master by reason of several disa∣sters, had renounced all civil society, and having found out this admirable place in the black Mountain, he resolved to dwell in it all the remainder of his life: So that he, whe∣ther his Master would or no, had provided such things as were absolutely necessary for the life of a man. Afterwards he told me, that after they had been setled a while here, the Prince Mazares came accidentally into this solitary place, and Belesis and he became such intimate friends, as they promised never to part, but die together in this Desart: But (said I unto him) How do they imploy themselves every day? In condoling, walking sometimes single, sometimes together (replied he) Some books they have also, for I told you already, that at first when my Master made choice of this Cave for his habitati∣on, I brought hither every thing which I thought might be serviceable unto him; and truly I think these two illustrious melancholy companions are now so accustomed to the life they lead, that they would hardly change it; yet truly, I do not think they can live long thus, or rather indeed I wonder they have lived so long, considering the extream melancholy which possesseth them.

Arcas having told me all these things, and shewed me his Garden, I went unto the place where I left my Master with Belesis, and he went to take care of my horse which was put with another, which my Master brought into that Wilderness. I was yet unsatisfied what they did when night came upon them, but was not long so; for when it began to be dark, I perceived in divers places about this vault there were several pieces of transparent Rock in divers places, all which were filled with a kind of Oyl which Arcas had extracted out of Fir Trees, which grew in great abundance within that Wood, and that faithful ser∣vant of Belesis, with the help of a kind of Cotton, made abundance of Lamps that gave a most glorious light within the Christal Grot; so that it seemed incomparably more lustrious and splendant when all these rustique Lamps were lighted, then it did in the day. The Beds of these two retired melancholy men, were suitable to the rest, and were made of Moss, Reeds, and Rushes, for they did not seek for any Downy Beds of ease. The Prince Mazares was grown to such a habit of melancholy, that he could not rejoyce at any thing; and Belesis as sad as he was, had a greater share in that satisfaction which he ought to have in hearing Mandana was alike, then he himself had such a customary ha∣bit of sorrows had seized upon his soul; yet finding some satisfaction in relating sad sto∣ries, he told me what his thoughts were when he stole away from Tyburtus; how having a design to seek out some place vvhere he might pass unknovvn, he resolved to imbarque for Sicily, and so to pass into Arabia the Desart, and there end his daies: Yet having consulted vvith an Oracle, the Gods did by their ansvver forbid him that course, and di∣rected him to dvvell in the black Mountain in Sicily, vvhere he should find some consola∣tion: Thither I vvent then (said he unto me) and at first believed that the consolation vvhich the heavens had promised me vvas death: For passing a day and a half in these Mountains vvithout seeing any body, I made no question then but death vvould soon be my lot. But at last, the Gods being my Guide as vvell as Commander, I met Belesis vvalk∣ing in the Wood, and spoke unto him; presently vve grevv acquainted, and the same day did begin so great a league of friendship, that vve promised never to part from each other: Yet I am very ready to disingage you from your vvord (said Belesis, and inter∣rupted him) for since the Princess Mandana lives, it is not just you should be tyed unto he fortunes of a miserable man, vvho is out of all hopes to better himself; yet I shall

have this advantage, that the end of your miseries will shorten mine, since certainly I shall dye as soon as I am deprived of the sweetness which I find in your company. Alas, alas, Belesis (said the Prince Mazares) you are not acquainted with the malignity of my fate, if you imagine I can ever be happy: I must confess it is an extraordinary comfort unto me to hear that Mandana is alive, and that though I was her Ravisher, yet I was not her Executioner: But for all that, since I cannot leave loving her, and knowing it to be im∣possible I should ever get my self so high in her esteem as I was before, it may be said that I do nothing but change misery for misery; and which way soever I look upon the matter, I find my self the most unfortunate Prince upon Earth: for since I was the cause that this Princess fell into the power of the Pontean King, that she hath been hurried from Kingdom to Kingdom, and that all Asia is in War about it, I am most confident she hates my memory every minute in the day, and thinks the Gods most just in drowning me as a punishment of my crime: And I may assure my self, that as soon as she hears I am not dead, she will be as sorry for it as I am glad to hear she is living: Moreover, I am so un∣fortunate as to have such Rivals, as in any reason I cannot hate them, but such as I ought rather to lament: The King of Assyria is cruelly betrayed by me, and I carryed away from him, her whom he infinitely loved, for whose sake he hath lost the greatest Kingdom in all Asia: As for the King of Pontus, how can I complain against him? Since I ruined Mandana, and he saved her, must I not rather accuse my self then him? Can I in any justice quarrel with a Prince who rescued my Princess from her grave which I layd open for her? What can I alledg against the illustrious Cyrus? What Crime can I tax him with? or to say better, How may he accuse me? for I made use of his Name to deceive the adored Mandana; under that illustrious Title I seduced her, and have eternally lost that esteem and friendship which I might have for ever enjoyed: Do you remember Orsanus (said he to me) the time when this illustrious Princess was at Babylon? how she called me her Protector: alas, how undeserving was I of that glorious Title? I have just cause to beleeve that of all her Lovers and Adorers, she hates me the most: The King of Assyria, as violent as he is by Nature, has not so much affronted her as I have done: The King of Pontus, in keeping that only which fortune gave him is not so culpable as I am; for I, miserable I, am not only an unjust, rash and insolent Lover of this Princess, but also a perfideous Friend and wicked Cheater, whose memory she may justly hate: Why should I trouble my self about her Liberty? (said he,) for if the illustrious Cyrus do not recover it for her, none else can.

The Prince Mazares was so vehement in such expressions as these, that I thought it not convenient to contradict him, lest I should more confirm him in his resentments by too much opposition; But granting him some things, and disputing others, our Conversation lasted till faithful Arcas brought in Supper, which was more neat then magnificent, as you may well imagine: After which, my dear Master asked me, how I came to see Mandana, whether Martesia and Araminta were with her? and as in my answers I phrased Abra∣dates King of Susiana, Belesis interrupted me, asking how it was possible Abradates should be King, since when he entered into his solitude, the King his Father and the Prince his elder Brother were alive, and he himself was an Exile at Sardis? The Reason is (replyed I unto him) because those two Princes are both dead, and consequently Abradates is King by succession. The Gods are worthy to be praised for it (replyed Belesis,) for Abra∣dates is much more worthy to wear a Crown then the Prince his Brother, who has been my greatest Persecutor.

Pray Orsanus (said Panthea and interrupted him) is this Belesis of whom you speak the same I have so often heard spoken of at Susa when I came there, and one who of all men living is one of the most accomplished Gallants, whom Love hath punished with all his tortures? I know not whether he be the same you mean (replyed Orsanus,) but I know that Belesis is of Mantiana, and hath dwelt at Susa a long time; That Love hath been the misfortune of his life, and that the Prince of Susa elder Brother of Abradates hath made him complain much of his violence towards him. There is no question (said Panthea) but he is the same I mean; so that I can assure you the Prince Mazares is in company of one of the best loved men in all Asia, as those who have known him tell me, even by her whom he most loved, though since she most hates him: But Sir, said she to Cyrus, I pray pardon me for interrupting him in his Relation, and therefore I beseech you let him continue it: Cyrus then returned a Complement unto Panthea, and commanded

Orsanus to proceed, and accordingly he went thus on with his Story.

You see Sir, how the first day of my being in the Wilderness was spent; Trusty Arcas giving me his bed, and making another for himself as well as he could. It was so late before I went to bed, that the Birds at break of day did awake me within three hours after I began to sleep; yet was I not so soon awake as my Master; for though he was unimaginably joyed that Mandana was alive, yet was it a kind of an interrupted joy, and mingled with so many perplexed thoughts, as he could not sleep that night: As soon as I came out of my little grot, I found him gone out of his, so that finding Belesis alone, I beseeched his help in perswading the Prince Mazares to quit this kind of life which then he lived: But alas Sir, said I unto him, the better to move him unto it, It were requisite you did quit it your self, and to perswade him rather by your Example then your Reasons. Ah Orsanus, cry∣ed Belesis, the destiny of the Prince Mazares and my self are much different, and that which is good for him, is not for me. Sir, replyed I, since I am ignorant of your misfor∣tunes, and dare not be so bold as to ask what nature they are of, I cannot so well con∣vince you as perhaps I should if I knew them; but to speak in general, there can be no misfortunes so bitter, but a man of your spirit and Wisdom may sweeten them. 'Tis true, replyed he, those miseries which Fortune doth cause may be overcome, but such as Love doth load a man withall, there are no comforts so cordial as to sweeten them, especially such as mine are; however, I will promise you to use my best arguments to move the Prince Mazares unto a removal from hence in the morning, I would say to day (said he and sighed) if my affection unto him did not need some time of preparation before I be separated from so dear a friend. Whilest I was thus talking with Belesis, the Prince Ma∣zares was rather wandering then walking in the Wood; and the disorder of his mind was so great, that he talked as he walked, and in lieu of walking far off from the Grot, he was turned upon it again ere ever he was aware: he found Belesis and me together, as we were going out to look him: No sooner were we met, but Belesis in pursuance of his promise, began to entreat him that he would stay this day with him, seeming as if he made no que∣stion but that he had intentions to leave him: As soon as he said so, my Master looking upon Belesis, told him, that the alteration in his fortune should not alter his maner of living; for said he unto him, It is misery enough unto me that I can never pretend unto Mandana's esteem, to make me forsake the society of men, although she be not dead; yet it was the despair which her death did cause in you, and that made you take up a resolution of for∣saking the sight of men. 'Tis true, replyed Mazares, but why would you advise me unto a life which will bring more bitter sorrows unto me then this I live? Consider well Belesis what you advise me unto, and tell me truly what you think to be my best course. Sir, replyed he, a man that is not in love would advise you to endeavor to forget the Princess Mandana, and to return unto the King your Father and the Queen your Mother, who would infinitely rejoyce at it: But since I too well know the power of that Passion over those who are captivated with it, I must ingeniously tell you, that though I think it expe∣dient for you to quit your Desart, yet I know not what to say, therefore I advise you to be your own Counsellor, and to follow your own inclination. I have mused away all this night (replyed the Prince my Master) in contemplation of my present condition, but cannot resolve what I ought or what I would undertake; yet I must confess I find in my Soul such a violent desire to see the Princess Mandana, that I cannot tell whether or no I am able to resist it: And yet at the same time, I find my self so extreamly ashamed of my Crime, that I think I shall never be able to shew my self: so that my fears and my desires will not suffer me to resolve what course to take: Moreover, though I should resolve to see her, yet how can I bring it to pass? If I go into Lidia where she is, and present my self unto Cressus, who fights against Cyrus, then it may be said that I fight for the King of Pontus, against a Prince who would release the Princess: If I should go into the Army of Cyrus, and think to have the honour of fighting for Mandana, then perhaps I should only fight for Cyrus and the King of Assyria, and dye before I have expiated my Crime by any considerable service. What shall I do then? I cannot resolve to fight neither for the King of Pontus, nor for the King of Assyria, nor for Cyrus; and yet my destiny is so odd, that I cannot engage my self on either side, but I must serve some of my Rivals; and it is absolutely impossible to imagine any way which can be advantagious to me. More∣over, since the Princess Mandana loved Cyrus when he was only Artamenes, and in her fidelity to him did scorn the greatest King of all Asia; what likelyhood is there, that now

since Artamenes is become Cyrus, the King of Persea's Son, who since hath conquered many Kingdomes, that she should change her affection to him: No, no, said he, she will never change; and I must needs confess, she has no reason to change; nor can I e∣ver hope to obtain the Love of this Princess, the height of my ambition is, That she would not hate me: Yes Mandana, said he, could I but let you see my real repentance, and could do you any such considerable service as would force your generosity to pardon me, and admit me unto your esteem again, I should desire no more, but take all my miseries with content: But alas, how is it possible for me to obtain this my desire?

Sir (said I unto him, in hopes to make him quit his Desart) you may obtain what you desire, if you will contrive wayes how to release the Princess of Medea, and re∣store her unto the King her Father: But to effect that; you must renounce your soli∣tude, and go where Mandana is, and seek all occasions of doing as I advise you: Oh Orsanus (said he) you would not advise me thus, but only to make me leave this Grot∣to; for you know well enough, that what you advise me unto is not easie to compass: If you vvere once in the way, replied I, I should then answer you more affirmatively; but this is most certain, that as long as you bury your self alive in this Wood, you can never do any service unto the Princess whom you love, who yet hates the very thought of you, and who cannot know how you repent the carrying her away as long as you are here? Moreover, if things so fall out that you cannot effect what I advise you unto, and that you absolutely resolve to renounce the world, and enter into your Tomb alive, you may when you please find this Cave alwayes open to receive you, and alwayes find Belesis there (replied that other illustrious solitary man who over-heard us) if death have not put an end unto all his miseries before your return: No, no, Belesis, replied the Prince Mazares, We will never part, and if Orsanus do perswade me to quit this Wilderness, it shall be upon condition that you shall quit it also, else I will never quit it. Belesis hearing my Master say so, answered him as one that was extream unwilling to quit the place, and there grew a most generous contest between them; Belesis desiring him to depart and leave him in his solitude, and Mazares resolved not to depart, unless he would with him, and so the matter rested that day without any resolutions upon it. The next morning I had induced my Master to leave this Salvage habitation if Belesis would go with him, and with my prayers and tears I had prevailed with Belesis to accompany my Ma∣ster, until he was in a more happy condition. Both of them being thus resolved, I im∣portuned them to depart immediately least their minds should alter, yet we were forced to stay a while, because neither of them would be seen in such habits as then they did wear. Since I had enough left of what Sir you were pleased to give me for our equipage; and moreover Belesis had good store of Jewels, which his trusty servant kept carefully for him, we sent him unto the next Town vvith my horse to buy another horse, and to provide cloaths for my Master and Belesis. Within three daies after he returned with all things necessary for our voyage, which we undertook in an odd kind of manner, for I observed that the Prince Mazares and Belesis did leave their Desart, as men that had a design to return again, yet I seemed as if I did not observe any thing, hoping that time and company might happily make them change thoughts. In the mean time Arcas was to be our guide out of this Woody Mountain, and indeed did very happily conduct us: For my part, though the place was the most beautiful of any in the world, yet I was very glad to be out of it: Alwayes when I looked upon Belesis, I saw him look upon this Mountain vvith a sigh: But since we wanted yet many accoutrements for our voyage, vve stayed at the first Town we came at to furnish our selves, where my Master caused a Buckler to be made, vvhich he hath carried ever since, and vvhereby you may see Sir, (if ever you observed it) how severely he censured himself, since therein he expresseth himself vvorthy of death for carrying avvay Mandana. Belesis also furnished himself vvith such arms as suited best to his liking: And during all the voyage, I used all my best arguments to persvvade the Prince Mazares rather to return unto the King his Father, then to go unto Mandana, for he could never hope for the least favour: But his ansvver vvas, that he vvould never have left his Cave, but only in hopes to release her, and with full intentions to return thither again if he could not effect his design. When I savv then vvith vvhat resolution he spoke unto me, I thought it better to yeeld unto him, then to contest any longer. Then vve inquired concerning the state of things, and vvere inform∣ed that your Army Sir had quitted Armenia, and made towards Cappadocia, to go from thence unto the Frontires of Phrygia vvhich joyned upon Lydia. We understood also,

that Abradates would shortly depart from Susa, and ingage himself in the behalf of Croessus. Then did vve consider vvhether vve should go unto Ephesus by Sea or by Land, but the Prince Mazares had no phancy to trust himself unto the inconstancy of the Winds and Waves, since it vvas further by Water then by Land; and the King of Pontus would not have carried Mandana that vvay, but because he feared the illustrious Cyrus vvould then follovv him, therefore it vvas resolved vve should not go by Sea; adding further unto other reasons, that vve should never hear any nevvs of the Princess Mandana in a Ship until vve came at Ephesus; vvhereas on the contrary, vve should hear all by Land, since there vvas not a place in all Asia vvhich could not inform us. I shall not trouble you Sir vvith a relation vvhich vvayes vve vvent, for that vvould be too tedious, only this, that vve vvere compelled to make long journeys, and not to stay in any part of Pa∣phlagonia vvhich joyns upon Cappadocia: But so it vvas, vvhether by change of Ayr or Diet, Belesis fell sick, and so very sick, that the Prince Mazares thought he would have died there. Belesis did intreat him a hundred times to let him die there, and follow his journey, yet he would not by any means; but on the contrary, protested he would never forsake him as long as he lived. In the mean time, the sickness of Belesis was not only dangerous, but like to last long: The greatest comfort to Mazares was, that he heard the Princess Mandana was in the Temple of Diana at Ephesus, and that as the sea∣son of the year was, you Sir could not draw into the field; and also, though he were at Ephesus there was no seeing of Mandana: nor any thinking of getting her out of such a sacred place as that was, yet did he indure the sickness of Belesis with much impa∣tience; but at last he began to grow better and better, and made us hope he would e∣scape, and indeed so he did. When he was quite out of all danger, and had quitted his Bed, his Physitian advised him to walk and take the fresh Ayr: Belesis being very desi∣rous to be in such a condition as he might not be any stay unto Mazares, took his Physi∣tians advise; so that after he had walked some daies on foot, he found himself so strong as to ride; then for a trial whether he was able to travel, my Master and he design a journey of fifty Furlongs to walk in a great Wood, and I waited upon them: But Sir, we had no sooner entred a hundred paces in the Wood, then my Master riding alone by himself, some twenty paces before Belesis and me, who were talking together, and re∣turned with much alteration in his aspect, and addressing himself unto me, Come hi∣ther Orsanus, said he, and tell whether my eyes deceive me not, for since I never saw Cyrus but once, and then I was not in a very good condition to observe his face; there∣fore I dare not assure you, that it was he who saluted me, and asked me whether I met not such a man as he described unto me; yet certainly if my imagination do well retain the memory of his Idea, he who I saw was Cyrus: Sir (said I unto him) Do we not hear every where as we pass, that Cyrus is in the head of his Army? Yet I am the most deceived that ever man was, if I do not see him yet at the root of yonder Tree, replied he. In saying so, he shewed me the Tree where you Sir was leaning.

Oh Orsanus, replied Cyrus, I must needs interrupt you in your story, that I may un∣deceive you, and tell you that I was not in Paphlagonia when you passed through it. I e∣steem you so much (answered Orsanus) that I will rather believe your words then my own eyes: Your eyes (replied the Princess Araminta, and blushed) are not so as you think them, since in all likelyhood it was the Prince Spitridates whom you saw, who re∣sembles the illustrious Cyrus so much, that it is no wonder if you were mistaken. But I beseech you tell me the direct time when you saw him you speak of. Orsanus in obedience to the Princess Araminta did tell her the exact time; so that by the computation of Cyrus and her self, it was concluded that Orsanus met the Prince Spitridates three weeks after the stranger Anaxaris left him wounded in Paphlagonia, and in such a Wood as Orsanus prescribed; so that by this, the Princess Araminta had so much consolation as to know certainly that he was not dead of the wound which he received; but on the other side, she wondred to hear no news from himself. After she had received all the satisfaction which Orsanus could give her, he continued his discourse in these tearms.

The Prince Mazares had no sooner shewed me him whom I thought to be the illustri∣ous Cyrus, but I told him, (out of prudence, lest an angry accident should happen) that it was not Cyrus, though he much resembled him. Mazares yet had much ado to believe me, and I think he would have asked this supposed Cyrus whether it was he or no,

had not Belesis (whilest we were in this Contest) told Mazares, that certainly I must needs know him better then he could, and therefore by consequence he ought to beleeve me: mean while, he who was the subject of our discourse, rushed presently into the thick of the Wood, and was quite out of our sight: So the Prince Mazares was forced to continue on his Walk. It is impossible for me Sir, to relate his thoughts unto you; for they were so tumultuously disordered, that he could never tell them unto us: Some∣times he was glad it was not you, and sometimes again sorry, without any reason either for his joys or sorrows: But since all his pretentions were only to release Mandana, and obtain her pardon, we never met with any, but he enquired both concerning her and you Sir.

That which wondered me most in the business was, that all those with whom we spoke, told us, that you Sir was towards the Frontiers of Lidia; and comparing my belief that it was you I saw, with these reports, the thought of it did so take up my mind, that I could not chuse but express it unto my Master two days after the sight of him who resem∣bled you; I told him that I dissembled my real thoughts before, and that I did beleeve it was you which we saw in the Wood: So that we travelled a whole day reasoning why you should be there; and not being able to reconcile our own sights and these reports, which were so contrary to each other, we still passed on unsatisfied: But since I could not give my own eyes the lye, I conceived, that you had made some secret Voyage unto some neighbor Prince, to negotiate some business or other; and that though reports went you were in your Army, yet it was not impossible but, you might be some days ab∣sent: Thus beleeving that we had seen you, and that you knew not my Master, we arrived at last at Ephesus. The Prince Mazares then changed his Name for that of Telephanes; but Belesis never altered his, because it was unknown in Lidia. I shall not relate unto you Sir, what agitation of Soul was in the Prince Mazares (whom now I will call Tele∣phanes for a while) when he saw the Temple wherein Mandana was; for I would (if pos∣sibly I could) conceal his Passion from you, lest I should too much exasperate your spirit against him: yet since the greatness of his Love does make his Virtue appear, I must needs have so good opinion of you Sir, as to beleeve, that at the end of my Relation you will admire, and perhaps become a friend unto such a Rival as he is, although I do set forth his Passion unto Mandana to be infinitely high: And the truth is Sir, it is impossible a Passion should be more violent: but the Wonder is, that since he came out of his Desart, he never entertained one thought but how to make satisfaction for his fault, and obtain a pardon for it, and I am most confident, that never any poor Peccant fuller of repentance then he, nor did I ever see more cruel remorse of mind: As oft as he considered, that it was through his treachery that Mandana was now inclosed within that Temple, his Soul was so sadded with sorrows, that I wonder he dyed not; and I verily think, that had not the King of Pontus been so ill when we came to Ephesus, that he kept his bed by reason of a wound in his thigh, so that he was not able to oppose those who would have taken away the Princess Mandana and the Princess Palmis; I am confident, I say, that if he had been there, though he had saved the life of the Princess, yet in the first raptures of his sorrows, my Master had then assaulted him: But afterwards considering that the King of Pontus his death would not have released Mandana, since as the state of things were, Cressus would not part with her, he conceived it more expedient to break her Chains by Policy: And considering that it was impossible to make any attempts upon that place for her Re∣leasement, he thought it better to go unto Sardis, whither she was to be conveyed as soon as Cressus and the King of Pontus were agreed upon their conditions; which were not yet concluded upon, though the Negotiation had not been transacting ever since the King of Pontut came to Ephesus: for as soon as he came thither, he sent to demand protection from Cressus, upon condition that what Treaties soever there were between him and Ciaxares or you, Mandana should never be restored. Since this Proposition seemed very hard, because by granting it, such a War would ensue, as would never be ended till one side was ruined, since it was not probable that Ciaxares would ever cease unless his daughter was declared, therefore the negotiation was very long before it could be concluded; and nothing was done in it, till Crassus having received a smiling answer from the Oracle, and then he consented unto the King of Pontus his desires: yet to find out a plausible expedient wherewith to colour Justice, he engaged himself never to render the Princess Mandana in any Treaty without the King of Pontus his consent; so that after several sendings the one to the other, the business was concluded between them when we came to Ephesus.

Then did we resolve for Sardis, and when we had put our selves into a handsom equi∣page we went unto that stately Town, where the Prince my Master never feared being known: For though Croessus had heretofore been on the King of Assyria's side as well as himself, yet they never saw each other, as well because Croessus was not in Babylon, as because they were alwayes parted in several bodies, so that he went boldly unto him, and offered him his service, Love telling him, that it was not directly against the Rules of Ge∣nerosity, to conceal his design of releasing Mandana, by such assurances of fidelity, which he would never have failed in, but only for her: And since Towns are commonly taken by craft, he thought he might without any baseness deliver Mandana by subtilty, since I could not by force. To get some reputation with Croessus, he made himself known unto him for what he was, to wit, a man of a great spirit and able parts in Martial mar∣ters; so that his design taking effect, Croessus received him very well, and treated both Belesis and me with much civility; and the better to disguise our selves, there seemed to be no difference of quality between us all, but yet the inclination of Croessus did prefer the supposed Telephanes; First, though Belesis was very handsom, of much spirit, and a gallant deportment: It is very true, that since he did only surmount his sorrows out of his affectionate friendship unto the Prince Mazares, and since that Prince did surmount his own sorrows only to release his Mistriss, therefore they acted differently, the one seeming much more forced then the other: However it was, in a few daies Telephanes was well known both in Court and Camp, Croessus offered him imployment, but he would take none upon him, lest then perhaps he could not lay hold of any fit opportunity which might offer it self; his only care was, not to be suspected, and to insinuate stimself with divers persons: When he understood that they would lodg the Princess Mandana within the Cittadel when she came to Sardis, his design was to make him that was Governour his friend, and he brought it so handsomly to pass, that he got a great stroke with him. In the mean time, since the negotiation between Croessus and the King of Pontus could not be compleated without an enterview, it was resolved they should meet neer Sardis, and since all conditions were agreed upon, and they feared that in conveying the Princess Mandana, and the Princess Palmis, something might be attempted for their releasement; therefore Croessus would have them depart from Ephesus, whil'st the King of Pontus was not there, purposely because the Spies which Prince Artamas might have amongst them, might the sooner be deceived. The King of Pontus was extreamly against it, saying, That since the River Hermes was between your Camp Sir, and the way which these Prin∣cesses was to go, there was no fear at all: But Croessus told him, that the Prince Arta∣mas had so many creatures in his Dominions, that he stood in fear of his own Subjects as well as of his Enemies, and therefore the King of Pontus was forced to consent, that orders should be sent unto Andramites to guard these Princesses, and conveigh them with those Forces which he had unto a certain place where the King of Pontus would meet him with others, and accordingly it was put in execution. In the mean time, since it was the will of Croessus that my Master should wait upon him when he went to meet the King of Pontus, he was then put to an extream puzzle, since that Prince intended to present him unto his Rival, as a man from whom he expected great services: And the King of Pontus perceiving by the proceedings of Croessus, that he valued this Telephanes at a high rate, and his handsom presence speaking him to be a man of much merit, he received him with great civility, and my Master did answer it with so much turbulency in his coun∣tenance, that I have admired a hundred-times, Croessus and the King of Pontus did not perceive it: It is true, that presently after he recollected himself, and carried the matter with as much cunning as a man in Love could, who had a plot to deceive his Rival, and release his Mistriss.

The King of Pontus then was as well pleased with my Master, as my Master would have been with him, if there had not been some secret reasons which took the edg off all those civilities which that Prince expressed unto him, and disobliged him; yet sometimes when he considered him as one that saved Mandana's life, he could not chuse but acknowledg himself obliged in his heart. In the mean time, as much as Telephanes desired to see the Princess whom he adored, yet he durst not go with the King of Pontus, who as I told you Sir, was to meet Andramites that guarded her: For since it was not so easie for him to disguize his face as his name, he made no question but if she saw him she would know him; and if she knew him, before she was informed of his real repentance for carrying her away, her extream aversion to him would discover him, and so his design of resto∣ring

her that liberty which he had taken from her would quite be defeated; therefore he made a handsom excuse for not accompanying the King of Pontus, as he desired him, but returned unto Sardis exceedingly disquieted, because he was not able to regulate his de∣sires; for when his repentance and his generosity had the upper hand in his heart, then he wished that the Prince Artamas might attempt something for the liberty of these Prin∣cesses, and in lieu of conducting them to Sardis, they might be brought unto your Camp Sir: But then when Love was Queen-Regent in his soul, he could not chuse but desire a sight of Mandana, and zealously wish that it might be himself who should re∣lease her, and restore her unto you, rather then any other should have that honour from him; yet notwithstanding he had no mind to be ignorant of all passages between the King of Pontus and the Princess Mandana at their meeting; so that for better infor∣mation of himself, he desired Belesis to accompany that Prince, not daring to send me, because the Princess knew me. But since he could not accord being seen by the Princess, because she was to pass into the Town where he was, he designed to see her out of a Win∣dow as she went through the Town unto the Cittadel; so that he waited for the return of the King of Pontus, and the Princesses Arrival with much impatience. About two daies after, the news was brought, that the Prince Artamas attempting the liberty of the Princesses was taken prisoner, and wounded in several places, and that all his Party were either killed, defeated, or taken prisoners. About two hours after this, another Post came from Andramites, who told Croessus, that the King of Assyria was amongst the prisoners, being known by a Captain that was in the Babylonian War.

This news, which extreamly rejoyced Croessus, grieved my Master; for though the King of Assyria was his Rival, yet to see so great a King 〈◊〉〈◊〉 such a case, moved much sorrow in him, especially considering that this last accident had not been, if he had not carried away the Princess Mandana: Also fearing that this Prince might know him, as well as the Princess might, he was moved to conceal himself with much care, lest all his designs should be spoiled; and indeed I did much confirm him in his resolution of keep∣ing himself unknown, especially as the Princess and the prisoners passed through the Town, and that day he kept in the place where I lodged, and as good luck was, the street where we were, proved to be that through which Mandana was to pass, and so she did. It is impossible I should tell you Sir, what operation this sight had upon the heart of my Master; the truth, and the wonder is, that it did not so much augment his Love as his repentance; for when he saw her so fair and so sad both, he imagined himself to be the cause of that sadness, his sorrows were such, as I can describe them no other∣wise, then by telling you that I cannot describe them. As soon as the Chariot wherein both the Princesses were was out of sight, and as he was ready to go from the Window, he saw the King of Assyria appear, guarded with Souldiers, who conducted him and all the rest of the prisoners, except the Prince Artamas, who was not brought unto Sardis until some daies after, by reason of his wounds: My Master then seeing at the same time both the Prince whom he had offended, and the Princess whom he carried away, fell in∣to such an extasie of sorrow, that it was long before he was able to answer unto what I said unto him, and I believe he had not so soon given over his sad thoughts if Belesis had not entred; his inquisitive desire to know the meeting between the King of Pontus and Mandana was quite cooled, and the sight of this Princess had so troubled his spirits, that he heard Belesis, but understood him not: I should have thought Sir (said I unto him) that since your belief of the Princess being dead did move unto such a desperate sor∣row, the sight of her alive should move you to a sensible consolation, and yet I per∣ceive you are as much grieved as ever: Do you think Orsanus (said he to me) that I can look upon Mandana as a Captive, and see her sad, but I must be so also? Alas, a∣las, Orsanus, I am not capable of any joy until I have made some reparation for all the injuries I have done her; methinks when I looked upon her, I saw her sigh, and saw in her heart that just measure of hatred towards me by her sorrows: I perceived in her inno∣cent soul such a horrid memory of the Prince Mazares, that I am perswaded she thinks upon me perpetually, and her hatred of me raigns in her resentments, according to the measure of all fresh disgraces which befals her: Judg then Orsanus, whether I can look upon this Divine Princess without disturbed joyes, yet I would not but have seen her, and seen her sad; for since I see her fair eyes so full of tears and melancholy, I am become an absolute Master of my Love, and I would release Mandana only for her self, and not for me; whereas if I had not seen so sad an object, my virtue is so weak, I should per∣haps

have thought only upon my own interest: No, no, imperious Passion (said he) thou that prompted me to commit the greatest sins of my life, yet thou shalt never move me to commit any more, my virtue is now too strong for thee, and thou canst not vanquish me: But what do I say? (added he;) Let me not ascribe that unto Virtue, which ap∣pertains only unto Love; and to say the very truth, It is my being extreamly in love, that prompts me to act as I intend: Hitherto (said he unto us) I loved Mandana only for my self; but now I will begin to love her for her own sake only: Indeed I know not whether I am able to love her without any desires; but I am certain I will love her with∣out any hopes, and by consequence without offence. Let us then labour my dear Belesis (said this generous Prince) to release my Princess, and for our greater encouragement let us never think of releasing her for our selves, but for a Prince much more happy then we are; and though I know he deserves all his good fortune, yet perhaps I shall have much ado not to murmur; but I am most absolutely resolved never to molest him.

These Sir were the thoughts of the illustrious Mazares, who spent the rest of that day and all the night following in the extremity of sorrows: yet not to consume himself in un∣profi••able sights, he began to observe very circumspectly what Guards they kept about the Cittadel, and to nourish that friendship which he had obtained with the Governor, and all with design to see what ways might be devised for the Releasement of the Princess Mandana: The better to procure friends and creatures unto himself, he was always ready to do any good office for the meanest Souldier, either unto the King of Lidia, or the King of Pontus, or unto Abradates who loved him very well: He courted Andramites also for his favour, whom he oblige〈…〉〈…〉ently after the Princesses were brought from Ephesus to Sardis; For reports being sp〈…〉〈…〉bout, either by the Prisoners, or some other unknown way, that he had taken you Sir as well as the King of Assyria and the Prince Artamas, and that at the request of the Princess Palmis he had released you, Croessus was so angry with him, that he was a while in some disgrace: But since it appeared clearly that Andra∣mites did it ignorantly, every one lamented him: And my Master, who in order to his design did endeavor to ingratiate himself with all men of Quality which were both pow∣erful and male-contented, did do Andramites very good service in this business, since Croessus did harken more unto his Reasons, then unto any others that were alledged in his behalf, which service did so sensibly oblige him, that he vowed eternal friendship. But though Croessus did restore Andramites into his former favour, yet there rested in his heart a secret grudg against that Prince for suspecting him who had given so many testimonies of his fidelity. As for the King of Pontus, he was the saddest man in the World that you Sir was not taken; conceiving that if you had been a Prisoner, then the consequence would have been most happy for him; because he could have payed the debt which he owed in restoring you Sir your liberty, and have satisfied himself and his passion in keeping the Princess Mandana.

As things were in this condition, we understood that Tegeus son unto the Governor of the Cittadel was amongst the Prisoners of War which were taken: And as we under∣stood at the same time that he was in love with a Lady called Cylenise, who was in the Cittadel with the Princess Palmis, the Prince my Master desired Belesis, who had a quick wit to find out an opportunity of seeing him, and to know of him whether or no be had any intelligence with any in the Cittadel, and whether there was no possibilities of relea∣sing his Mistress, and perhaps him••elf. Belesis undertook this employment, for my Ma∣ster could not employ me (because Feraulas being a Prisoner with Tegeus did know me) and he would not go himself, lest the King of Assyria should see him; so that Belesis was the only fit man for the service, and certainly it was a difficult matter to make a better choyce; for he transacted the matter admirably well, as you shall hear by the sequel of my Discourse. For my part, I endeavored to tamper and gain some Souldiers of the Cit∣tadel, not telling them wherein I intended to employ them. Thus every one of us being busie, though we yet saw no great likelyhood of any happy success in our enterprize, yet we lived in a little less anguish of mind. In the mean time, since the King of Pontus did infinitly esteem the supposed Telephanes, he courted him and his friendship very much, although he found but cold returns: yet since Telephanes durst not but keep within such terms of civility as were fitting for a man of his Quality, the King of Pontus perceived it not, but loved him exceedingly, and so much, that meeting him one day in the Kings Gardenas he came out from a Councel of War held in the Closet of Croessus, he began

to speak unto him of his misfortunes, and of his Love: But amongst all the rest of his sad disasters which ever had happened unto him, he did not grieve so much for any thing as that he had such a Rival as he could not chuse but love, and as he was infinitely obliged unto: For truly (said he unto him) is it not a most miserable condition to be unjust and ungrateful unto the greatest Prince in the World? unto whom I am a debtor both for my life and liberty; unto whom I am beholding for that Scepter which belongs unto me, if I would take it from him: but yet I cannot; my Love to Mandana is so violent, that I am not Master of my Reason. Telephanes hearing the King of Pontus speak thus, did think it best to confirm him in his generosity, so that perhaps he might induce him to release Mandana: So that being prompted by the spurs of Love which would not let him lose a minute of time, he repeated unto him all that he had so often hinted unto himself since he repented the carrying away of the Princess Mandana. Do you not consider Sir (said he unto him) that every moment you retain the Princess whom you love, she hates you the more for it? I know it very well, replyed the King of Pontus; but Telephanes, if ever you were in love, I pray you imagine how difficult a thing it is to part with a Princess, who as soon as she is at liberty will be in the Arms of another? Alas Telephanes, if you advise me to part from her, certainly you were never in love. I wish the Gods Sir (re∣he and sighed, having so much disorder in his spirit, as it was to see he spoke as he thought) that what you say were true. No Sir, I know what Love is; and I speak as I do, because I know the power of that Passion; for if you love, should you not do any thing to pro∣cure the love of her you love? Yes doubtless (replyed the King of Pontus.) Why then do you take that course (replyed Telephanes) which will procure her hatred? Because I can do no otherwise (replyed he,) for what course can I take to avoyd her hate? By giving the Princess whom you love her liberty (answered he,) sin〈…〉〈…〉 is not possible but she must needs infinitely esteem you, if your Virtue do surmou〈…〉〈…〉our Passion: Then Sir would your glory spread over all Asia; all your Subjects, w〈…〉〈…〉d rebel against him that usurps your Kingdom; every Prince would arm in your behalf, and reconquer your Dominions for you; Cyrus himself would set you upon your Throne: And indeed Sir, I find so much glory in the act I advise you unto, that I would do it, though I were sure to dye the next day. Ah Telephanes, cryed the King of Pontus, alas, you do not know the soveraignty of that Passion which commands my Soul, although you have been in love; Love is either great or little, either according to the beauty which doth cause it, or else according to the sensibility of that heart which is touched with it, and therefore all the world does not love alike: But Telephanes, I have a Soul the most sensible of all men living, and Mandana is the fairest and most ravishing Beauty upon Earth: Come Telephanes (said he, and would have carryed him by the arm towards the Cittadel) come and see the Justification of my Crime in the eyes of that Princess whom I adore: for though they are always incensed when they look upon me, at least very melancholy, yet you shall see it is impossible to be deprived of them and live. Telephanes was much surprized at the Proposition, and so much disordered, that if the King of Pontus had not been blinded with his over-zeal, he would have perceived it: And what desire soever my Master had to see Mandana, yet he would never see her with the King of Pontus; so that to excuse himself, Sir (said he unto him) If there need no more to justifie you but the sight of her Beauty, you shall be so in my opinion; for I saw her when she came first to Sardis; and the more sad I saw her, the more I accused you: all this would not satisfie the King of Pontus, but he still importuned my Master to go with him unto the Princess.

Pardon me Orsanus (said Cyrus) if I interrupt you in your Story, to ask you, Whether the King of Pontus did see the Princess Mandana every day? Ever since she came to Sar∣dis (replyed he) none had the liberty to see her but himself, but truly he is not at all the more happy; for I have heard one of his servants say, that he never visits her but both his Love and Despair is augmented, for he finds her always more fair, but more rigid every day then other. Cyrus then asking pardon of the two Princesses, Orsanus went on with his Story thus.

The King of Pontus being very importunate with my Master to go unto Mandana, did press him so far, that the poor Telephanes could find but bad Reasons to excuse himself; but he was forced to leave him, and go into the Cittadel without him, and went by a great Walk of Cypress, close by the ditch of that place, and opposite to the Garden door: After

Mazares saw him enter, he walked above two hours in that Walk, thinking upon the adventure which had happened: By chance Belesis and I found him there, and he ac∣quainted us with the passage: Afterwards making a stand, and looking earnestly upon us; Must it not needs be confessed (said he unto us, that Fortune is very ingenuous to torment me, since I must be continually both culpable and miserable? For I see, that to do one good act, as to release the Princess whom I took away, is, I must commit a hun∣dred bad ones; I must, I say, dissemble and deceive them that trust me; I must alwayes speak contrary to truth, I must be of one side, and seem to be of the other, and all this to put the person whom I most love and adore into the power of a beloved Rival: For my dear friends (said he unto us) with tears in his eyes) to put Mandana into such a condi∣tion as she would be, is certain to deliver her unto Cyrus: This I have promised unto my self, and this I will either do or die.

Sir, replyed Belesis, I do not question but to find out wayes how to do the first of those two, for by suborning some of Tegeus his Guard, I can speak with him as oft as I please, and can dispose him to endeavour the utmost of my power that the Cittadel may be surprized: He hath given me a Letter unto an old Officer in it, who he saith is very covetous, and who indeed I have found very ready to receive gifts, and by consequence ready to do what I would have him, so I will feed him with gifts. Moreover he told me, that when I had found out wayes to release the Princesses, and his dear Celenice, he knew how to escape his prison without trouble to any; for he who commands the Guard over the prisoners of War is so absolutely his, that if he desired it, he could get them all released, except the Prince Artamas, who hath a particular Guard by himself: But why is Tegeus still a prisoner (said my Master) if it be in his power to have his liberty? Be∣cause in the condition he is in (replied Belesis) he is not suspected, and he hath a de∣sign to find out wayes how to release the Princesses, and thereby ingage two great Prin∣ces, and also to release Celenice for his own satisfaction; so that I perceive it sticks but upon two things, to wit, some men for the execution of his design, which I have pro∣mised him, and one to acquaint the Princesses that their liberty is ready for them, and that they would prepare themselves to follow their Releasers; and this is the effect of that Letter which I have unto the old Officer whereof I spoke, that he shall let the Princesses understand how there are preparations for their releasement: But he told me, that this would be difficult for him to do, and that it would be much more easie for him to deliver us a Port, and we to carry them away; then for him to speak unto them: But Belesis, replied Telephanes, Why did you not tell me any thing of your negotiation? Because I I would have the business more ripe, replied he, and had it not been to comfort you a little, I should not have told you so much, because the business cannot be executed so soon. Moreover, a Captain of greatest power in the Cittadel, next the Governour, who is an intimate friend unto Tegeus, is not in Sardis, nor will he return this fifteen dayes. Telephanes perceiving then, that Tegeus was Master of the Guards, that he had very powerful intelligence in the Cittadel, that I had gained many of the Souldiers, and that there wanted nothing but a Convoy, and one to acquaint the Princesses, did not think upon any thing, but how to remove these two obstacles. A while after, news being brought to Town that Nysomolis was taken, and that your Army Sir struck a terror into all Lydia, it was requisite that Telephanes, (to keep himself unsuspected, and to pre∣serve that advantageous opinion vvhich they conceived of him) should go into the Wars, and shew that he deserved it; he vvent out therefore vvith Andramites, and in several small incounters did notably behave himself; yet his mind vvas, that Belesis and I should stay in Sardis, to keep Tegeus and all those of his correspondency in a disposition to ex∣ecute the enterprize, when it was ripe, vvith orders to advertise him speedily of it vvhen the time came, to the end he might find out a pretence for his coming to Sardis. Thus Sir did things stand at Sardis, vvhil'st you vvere taking Tovvns; and forcing the Lydian Troops to quit their Quarters.

But to shorten my discourse as much as I can, upon these tearms Sir did the enterprize concerning Mandana's releasement stand, when after you desired combat with the King of Pontus, there was an enterview between you and that Prince, when you knew the Prince Mazares amongst the rest which came with him. I doubt not Sir but you desire to know why my Master would come unto that meeting, for I wondred at it my self, but he would give me no other reason, then that since you had met him, and spoke to him in Paphlagonia, yet then knew him not, he thought that certainly you would not know

him in Lydia, and therefore he might boldly, without fear of discovery, accompany the King of Pontus, who was very importunate with him, and also might satisfie his desires of being present at an enterview, wherein he had a secret interest, which none knew of but himself: For indeed he told me in going to that place, where you and the King of Pontus were to see each other, that sometimes he wished that your perswasions might not prevail with the King of Pontus, concerning Mandana's releasement, but that he himself might have the glory of it: And sometimes again, when he suspected the happy success of his enterprize, he wished the King of Pon us might be moved by your reasons. How∣ever it was Sir, the Prince Mazares, (who I will now call Telephanes no longer) did go with the King of Pontus, upon reasons so different and opposite, that he could never reconcile them himself. In the mean while Sir, I beseech you do me the honour to con∣fess, that there is never any true judgment to be given upon appearances; for indeed I know Sir, that when you saw the Buckler whereon my Master represented a dead man, and his Motto, testifying, that he thought himself worthy of it, and knew him who bore it to be the Prince Mazares: Then, I say, you were angry, and hated him, and that you expressed as much by such visible marks, both in your words and actions, as a∣ny one might see the thoughts of your heart: Yet Sir, this man whom you thus hated, was then thinking upon nothing else, but how to render the Princess Mandana unto you, and for ever to deprive himself of her, and indeed he answered you with as much mode∣ration as a man of courage possibly could. I shall not need to tell you Sir what his thoughts were upon that occasion, for you may easily imagine them; but give me leave to tell you, that after (by the prudence of Abradates) this dangerous conference was ended, and that every one took the way unto his own Quarter, the King of Pontus knew no more how to behave himself towards Mazares, ••••en Mazares knew what to say unto him. After they had marched forty or fifty p••ces without a word passing a∣mongst them, Abradates came to my Master with much civility: Generous Prince (said he unto him) I am sorry that I must render you more respect then hitherto I have, for since it was your pleasure to be unknown, I suppose you had rather have still been Tele∣phanes, then the Prince Mazares, since you have made that name so famous, that you cannot leave it off unless you wrong your self: Sir, replyed he, I have been ever so un∣fortunate under the name of Mazares, that it is no wonder I should desire to leave it off for a time; but for ought I see, the name of Telephanes is not more prosperous un∣to me.

All this while the King of Pontus spoke not a word; but calling to memory how Ma∣zares lived at Sardis, and how he refused to go vvith him unto Mandana, though he importuned him, and considered that he had insinuated himself into the friendship of the Governour in the Cittadel, and vvith all the men of Quality in Court, he thought that he would at last put all these into some design; but not being able to comprehend the my∣stery, yet being very desirous of further satisfaction, vvithout any further delay he went to the King of Susiana, and the Prince Mazares, and looking upon my Master; I be∣••eech you Sir, said he unto him, though you be my Rival, yet deny me not one favour vvhich I shall ask you, as if you were Telephanes my friend, and my extreamly loved friend: Although I am your Rival Sir (replyed the Prince Saces) and by consequence Telephanes could never be very much your friend, no more then Mazares could; yet let me tell you, that there are very few things which you are not able to obtain of me: For truly, since you saved the life of the Princess Mandana, whom I most unfortunately caused to perish, your prayers must needs be very prevalent with me, and indeed so they shall be for ever: If so, replyed the King of Pontus, tell me what opinion I ought to have of you, for I profess unto you I do not know; when I call to mind all I have seen you do, I know not where I am, and I yet doubt whether you be Telephanes, or the Prince Mazares: Certainly I am the last of these, replyed he: If you be, said the King of Pontus, Why do you ingage your self on the side of Croessus? Why did you conceal your name? And what motives had you to act as you have done? Is it for your self, or for me, that you have fought? It was neither for you nor for my self (replyed my Ma∣ster, with as much subtilty as vvit, to disguize the reality of his thoughts) but it was a∣gainst Cyrus: Yet it does not seem to me, replyed the King of Pontus, that you spoke unto him vvith any such Symptoms of hatred as should induce you to fight in favour of one Rival to ruine another. But tell me ingenuously I beseech you, What ought I to think

of your Actions? and how must I consider you? As a man (replyed Mazares and sighed) that does not pretend unto the least hopes or ayms of ever enjoying Mandana; and I would it were the pleasure of the Gods, that I could inspire you with the same bitter repentance which I have for carrying her away, and causing the greatest parts of all the miseries which have befallen her. How's this Mazares (said the King of Pontus) do not you pretend any thing to Mandana, and yet come disguised unto the place where she is? You fight against the forces of the other side; you engratiate your self into friend∣ship; you seem to be my friend, and is all this without any pretention? No, no, it is im∣possible, you can never perswade me to beleeve it. It is not an easie matter to imagine (said the King of Susiana) what the intention of the Prince Mazares should be: Yet he hath one (replyed the King of Pontus) of what nature soever it be. That which doth most trouble me (added he in speaking to Abradates) is, that he hath used all his endea∣vors and arguments to perswade me to render the Princess Mandana unto Cyrus; and indeed how is it possible (added he, and spoke to my Master) if you yet love her, you should advise me to put her into the power of a Prince adores her, and for whom she scorns all those that love her?

To testifie unto you, said Mazares, that I have no secret interest at all, I shall give you the same counsel now, when you know what I am, and conjure you, with all the faculties of my heart and Soul, to give freedom unto the Princess Mandana: And I will engage my word, that in acknowledgment of your saving her life, and giving her liberty, I will divide the Kingdom which hereafter I shall possess, and give half of it to you, if you cannot re∣conquer your own. No, no, said the King of Pontus, you wish not what you say; for if you did, I must not look upon you as my Rival, but as my friend. I know not well, re∣plyed Mazares, whether I am your Friend or my Rival, my reason is so rafled: but yet I know that I love Mandana more perfectly then you do, since I know how to limit my hopes, and to seek no further then her satisfaction: Did you know how to love so well as I, you would be more sensible then you are of the sufferings which the person beloved en∣dures: But in the name of the Gods Sir, let me perswade you to repent as I do, and let not one of your Rivals have that advantage over you: Moreover, I beseech you do not think, that I only say I will not pretend any thing unto the Princess Mandana, out of any fear to make you my Enemy, as valiant as you are; for I care so little for my life, that if I considered none but my self, I would seek such an occasion to dye the sooner and more gloriously: but I do really speak as I think; and it is not more true, that you do love the Princess Mandana, then it is true that I pretend nothing unto her, but I wish with all my heart and soul that you would set her at liberty, and put her into the hands of Cyrus, rather then let her continue miserable still. If what you say be true, replyed the King of Pontus, of all men living you are the most virtuous, or else the least amorous; and I should much wonder if it should be the last of these; and that a corner passion should cause you to carry away the Princess Mandana, and forget your duties to the King of Assyria. As the greatest Crimes, replyed my Master, does cause the greatest repent∣ance; so it is no wonder if since I have committed a double injustice, I should be extream∣ly ashamed. It is true, replyed the King of Pontus, but yet it is very much that, one should love, and yet be able to render his Mistress unto a Rival whom she loved, Yet truly (said the King of Sasiana) the Prince Mazares does express himself so emphati∣cally, and with such an a•••• as is apparent that his tongue speaks the very thoughts of his heart; and therefore I conjure you both, what ever both your designs are, not to dis∣unite. For my part, said the King of Pontus, if the Prince Mazares will engage his word, that he will never pretend any thing unto the Princess Mandana, and that he has no con∣cealed design to carry her away both from Cyrus and my self, I shall carry my self towards him as if he were not my Rival. Abradates then asked Mazares whether he would en∣gage himself unto such Conditions as the King of Pontus desired? since he himself pro∣fessed he had no pretentions unto Mandana. Whilest this Prince was speaking thus unto him, Mazares did consult with his mind upon the matter; and finding that if he should promise what was required, yet he did not thereby engage himself unto any thing which was contrary to his design, since his intentions were not to carry away the Princess Mandana for himself, therefore he consented unto those Conditions though with much repugnancy: and I verily beleeve, that if he had not certainly known the death of the King of Pontus would not have furthered the liberty of Mandana, in lieu of making this

promise, he would have decided the controversie by Svvord, and fought vvith this Prince.

Thus Sir did this conference pass; after vvhich, Abradates acquainting Croessus with my Masters condition vvhen he came to Sardis, and relating all passages as much in my Masters advantage as I could, Croessus had not so many jealousies in his soul as the King of Pontus had, vvho after did circumspectly observe all my Masters actions, so that vve had much ado to hold those intelligencies which formerly vve did vvithout discovery. In the mean vvhile, the Prince Mazares had such an extream abhorrence of all dissimulati∣ons, that if Belesis and I had not persvvaded him that the glory of an enterprize of this nature, did consist only in the execution, and not in the means by vvhich it vvas conceal∣ed; and that the Conspirators, the more they dissemble in a just cause, the more com∣mendations they deserve: I think, that rather then he vvould have done as he did to conceal his design, he vvould have undertaken a more violent resolution. After this Sir, you knovv hovv high discontents vvere grovvn amongst all the Princes, concerning an exchange of Prince Artamas; and the Queen, before vvhom I speak; and hovv Andra∣mites, and the Prince Myrsiles took the King of Susiana's part: But you do not knovv Sir, hovv my Master making use of these divisions, did secretly and frequently visit the generous Abradates and Andramites, and so vvrought upon their Spirits, as they promi∣fed him, that if matters vvere further exasperated, they vvould attempt nothing vvith∣out him; but yet my Master still kept his design close unto himself. After this Sir, the Truce being published, and the Captain vvho vvas friend unto Tegeus, being returned unto the Cittadel, my Master did make a shevv as if he vvere not vvell, to the end he might the more conveniently endeavour to speak vvith Mandana, or at least vvith Mar∣tesia; and we did negotiate the business so happily, that by the assistance of this friend unto Tegeus, vvho had the Guard of the Chamber vvhere the Princesses did lye, vve had permittance to enter into the Cittadel in the night, and he promised to help me to the speech of Martesia. As I knew that Martesia had a very friendly opinion of me ever since I vvas her guide in bringing her to Sinope, so I hoped to effect my business ve∣ry vvell; but do vvhat I could, I could not perswade my Master to stay behind, for he thought that I could not so vvell aggravate his bitter repentance, as himself could do; so that I was forced to submit unto his desires, and I had so ordered the business, that just at nine of the Clock, the friend of Tegeus vvould let my Master and me enter, undisco∣vered by any; and so bringing us by a back pair of stairs into his own Chamber, he went unto Mandana's, where finding Martesia, he desired her that she would be pleased to let him have an hours discourse vvith her; so that Martesia being as complaysant as any judicious person would be unto one, that kept them prisoners, consented; and passing from the Chamber of her Mistress unto her ovvn, vvhich vvas very neer, the Captain came to us, and according to the plot betvveen my Master and my self, I only vvent un∣to Martesia, to the end I might the better deceive her, as aftervvards I shall tell you; for vve knevv very vvell, that the Princess Mandana did not think my Master to be alive, or that he was at Sardis, because Croessus and the King of Pontus had given express charge; that no news whatsoever should be carried unto the Princesses, and therefore we feared not that Mandana could know of his being there.

Then did this Captain conduct me to Martesia's Chamber, and left me there; she no sooner saw me, but she broke out into a hundred expressions of joy and tenderness. Ah Orsanus (said she unto me) Can you not carry me once again to Sinope, and bring the Princess with me? Yes sweet Martesia (said I unto her) that I can, and I came hither purposely to make the Proposition unto you. Alas, replyed she, I see so little possibi∣lity in it, that I fear they will sooner keep you a prisoner with us, then you can set us at so much liberty; and therefore to consume no time in telling me any pleasing lies, I pray tell me, how the state of things in general does stand? For we know nothing here but what pleaseth the King of Pontus, who will tell us nothing but that he is in Love; there∣fore pray tell how the illustrious Cyrus does? And where is his Army? Tell me whether Artamas be recovered of his wounds? For the Princess of Lydia is much grieved for him, and if it were not too much to ask you at once, you would do me a pleasure in telling me what is become of poor F••ra las? Martesia having put all these questions unto me, I sa∣tisfied her curiosity in them all; after which, I assumed the discourse wherewith I began, and assured her confidently, that I knew of an infallible way to release the Princesses, and

to put Mandana into the hands of Cyrus; so that she believed there was some truth in my words: But she told me, that as for the Princess Palmis she would never go out of prison, but by the hand of the King her Father, especially since the Prince Artamas would remain a prisoner of War; and lest this should keep the Princess Mandana from going out, I pray tell me (said she unto me) What are the best courses to be taken: First it is requisite, said I unto her, that I have the honour to see the Princess; and secondly, the same honour is desired for him, that is the chief actor in the enterprize, who is now in the Captains Chamber, who brought me hither, and who desires to receive his orders from her own mouth: There is no difficulty in all this (replyed Martesia) pro∣vided you will have a little patience, for I believe the Princess of Lydia will leave her pre∣sently: But in the interim (said she) I pray tell me who is this generous Liberator? How can he get us out from hence? And when shall it be? For I wish it were this very hour, if it were possible: You shall know the two first of your questions in good time (replied I) and as for getting you out from hence, it shall be within this three daies, if the Prin∣cess please: If she please (replied she) Ah Orsanus, I warrant you it will please her, since though the King of Pontus be as respective to her as he is unjust, I am confident she would do any thing to get out of his power. In the mean time, said she, that vve may the sooner see vvhether the Princess of Lydia be retired, and the sooner see our De∣liverer, I pray you follovv me.

In saying so, she carried me unto a little Closet over against the Princess Chamber, but so neer it; and the partitions so full of crannies (for you must know the places of War are not built like Palaces) that any thing might be heard which was spoken. Being then in this place where we could hear all the discourse which passed between the two Princesses, we began to hearken, in hopes they would end their discourse quickly, and presently I heard a voice which was unknown to me, and which Martesia said was the Princess Palmis, who complained extreamly against the malignity of her Fortune: For my part, replied the Princess Mandana, I hardly dare complain against mine; for since the conformity which is in our misfortunes did make you love me, and in some sort caused the friendship which is between the Prince Artamas, and the illustrious Cyrus, methinks I ought to indure it patiently: Ah Madam, said the Princess Palmis, I beseech you do not give so bad a foundation unto the affection which I bear you, and seek not for that in the suitableness of our miseries, which cannot be found any where but in your rare merits; and if you please to look a little neerer into things, you will find a notable diffe∣rence, between the misfortunes of Cyrus, and those of Artamas, and also between yours and mine: Yet in many things they resemble very much, replied Mandana, for as one hath been exposed to many dangers, so hath the other; as one changed his own name for that of Artamenes, the other assumed the name of Cleander in lieu of his own, both of them are brave and gallant, both of them have been Conquerours, both of them in Love, and if there be any difference, it is in that the Prince Artamas loved by reason, and Cyrus only by inclination: Had you changed the name of Artamas for Cy∣rus, said the Princess Palmis, your discourse had been just: I beseech you let me end it (said the Princess Mandana) and see whether I have not reason to attribute unto the likeness of our miseries, the pity which you have of mine: Besides all that I said be∣fore, these two Princes have had the favour and affection of these two Kings whom they served, they have both of them been imprisoned by them, for whom they have hazard∣ed their lives a thousand times; as Croessus was displeased with you because you favoured Cleander; so Ciaxares hated me, because I esteemed Artamenes: Indeed what should I say? Cyrus and Artamas brought us hither; Have they not persecuted you as well as me? And as Adrastus and Artesilias died for you, did not the unfortunate Mazares perish for me? Are we not now both prisoners together? And must it not needs be confessed, that since you cannot love me for any resemblance of those admirable qualityes which are in you, and not in me, Heaven has a design to make you love me, because I resemble you in your misfortunes: To shew you (replied the Princess Palmis) that the Love I bear you proceeds from nothing but your merits, and not at all from any resemblances of our adventures, I must needs let you see that they are infinitely different; so that in reason it cannot be said they have any resemblance, and by consequence you ought not to believe, that the affection I bear you hath any such cause: The adventures of Cyrus and Artamas are much different; for when Cyrus was only Artamenes, he knew that he was Cyrus,

and was not ignorant of his own Quality: whereas on the contrary, the unfortunate Cleander did not so much as know who himself was, but thought himself so far below my Quality, that he did condemn his Love no less then I should if I had then known it: Artamenes had nothing else to make his condition known to be equal unto yours, but only to say he was Cyrus: But Cleander for a long while durst not so much as wish to know who he was, lest his condition should prove disadvantagious unto him if it were known: These false Names under which both of them did pass was given them variously, for Cyrus took the Name of Artamenes upon him to disguise himself; and Artamas not knowing his true Name, received that of Cleander from Thimettes, who gave it him, not thinking he should ever leave it: 'Tis very true, both of them are most gallant men, and both Conquerors, but with a notable difference, since Fortune hath almost confined the Victories of Artamas to the Kingdom of his Father, whilest she hath stretched the Conquests of Cyrus over all Asia. The ori∣ginal of their Passions is also as different as the merit of those two persons who caused them: The Prisons also in which both of them were, are very unlike, and proceeded from several causes: The jealousie and wickedness of Artesilas caused the Imprison∣ment of Cleander; and the prejudicate opinion of Ciaxares was the cause of Arta∣menes his Imprisonment; though I must needs confess there was equal injustice in them both. Moreover, the hatred which Ciaxares bore unto Cyrus, proceeded only from a misunderstanding of the Menaces of the Gods; but the King my Father hated Artamas because he thought I loved him, and by consequence the cause of his hatred cannot cease, as the cause of Ciaxares his hatred did. Moreover, you cannot in reason say, there was any equality in their last Imprisonment, since that of Cyrus lasted not above an hour at most, whereas that of Artamas lasts yet, and he was dan∣gerously wounded besides: But I beseech you let us close up all these resemblances which we find in our fortunes in this one, which is, our Imprisonment: Is there not a vast difference between us? for you know there are two hundred thousand men in Arms for your Liberty: That the most valiant Prince upon Earth and the greatest Captain commands this Army, and fights only for you: Moreover, it is just in you to wish him Victory, and to make prayers unto Heaven for it: But as for me, I am not on∣ly deprived of all hopes of relief, but of all other consolations, except your friendship Madam, which truly is a great one: For truly I must not desire my Liberty, since it cannot be but by the Conquest of the King my Father, by the loss of his Crown, and by his being a Slave: All which will be, if Cyrus be a Conqueror; and if he be not, then Prince Artamas will perish in Prison, and I dye where I am: so that since I can∣not desire any thing which would be advantagious to me, I must endure my miseries and never wish for an end. After this I beseech you judg whether I am at all a deb∣tor unto my misfortunes for your affection, but rather for your pity. However it be, replyed Mandana, I am confident, that the Gods have a design Prince Artamas shall love and do Cyrus good service, and that Cyrus shall protect and comfort Ar∣tamas. After this these two Prisoner Princesses spoke much more unto each other which I could not understand, because Martesia hindered me, and I had much ado to get her let me hear as much as I have related to you, for she was continually ask∣ing me questions, unto which I returned short answers, and sometimes only with my head; because, since she named my Master once, I desired to hear whether she would name him any more: But if I did not certainly know, that the Prince Mazares my Master would never pretend any more unto the Princess Mandana, I should not have been so perfidious unto him, as to acquaint the illustrious Cyrus with all those advantagious expressions which she used towards him.

But to return unto my Discourse, Be pleased to know Madam, that at last the Princess of Lidia left Mandana and went unto her Chamber, which was separated from his only by a withdrawing Room which was commune to them both. She was ••o sooner gone, then knowing there was none with her but Arianita, I went unto my Master to bring him unto Mandana's Chamber; the Captain who let us enter into the Cittadel brought us to the door and there left us, to the end he might take more care that none should discover us. As Martesia prepared the Princess to receive a man who would release her, and told her that it was I who would conduct him, she

wondered who it should be that would be her Deliverer: And I knew afterwards by Martesia, she did think it no other then the illustrious Cyrus: So that her extra∣ordinary fears, in thinking what dangers he exposed himself unto for her sake, did cool all her joys when she thought upon her hop'd-for Releasement. Then Madam, you may easily imagine how infinitely the Princess was amazed, when in lieu of seeing the illustrious Cyrus enter, she saw the Prince Mazares casting himself at her feet, whom she imagined to be dead: She turned hastily towards Martesia, to ask her, whether what she saw was real? and if it was, why she did deceive her? Martesia, who was no less amazed then the Princess, looked upon me with so much Wonder, that she could not ask me why I dissembled with her? In the mean while, my Master, who was upon his knees before the Princess, he began to speak thus unto her: You see here at your feet Madam a man that is risen from the dead; but risen as innocent, as he was culpable before your shipwrack; Therefore I beseech you do not treat me as I deserved when I was so unjust as to carry you away, since I am not the same man now as I was then. I do not beg of you Madam, to let me love and adore you; for I am most fully resolved in the very reality of my heart, never to have any such thought as long as I live: All the whole sum of my Petition is, that you would be pleased to pardon my Crime, and give me leave to lessen it a little, by procuring you that Liberty which I took from you. Ah Mazares, said the Princess, I will not be deluded at Sardis as I was at Sinope, and I have no such thoughts of you at this pre∣sent as I had at that time. Yet I am now less worthy of your friendship (replyed he) then ever I was; for truly Madam, when I was at Babylon, I did nothing but strive against that Passion which you had created in me; and truly though I did re∣sist it with all my force, yet it was far too weak; for I was overcome by this impe∣rious Passion; all the Virtue I had submitted unto it: it expelled all Generosity and Reason out of my Soul; and at Sinope forced me to commit the most unjust act that ever was: I carryed you away Madam; I deceived you and carryed you away, in telling you that I would deliver you into whose hands soever you pleased: But my divine Princess, I was not long culpable, since my repentance was almost as soon as the Crime was committed; and the Command which I gave unto the Pilot to steer his course towards Sinope, was that which put us in a perishing condition. No, no, Mazares, said the Princess, you can never perswade me to trust you, since you so extreamly deceived me: For to let you see how horrid your Crime seems in my eye, I do profess, that, excepting Cyrus, I will not trust any man upon Earth: I esteemed you as much as I could esteem any, and more then that, I loved you as well as I could do my Brother: Then I pray you judg, whether I have not reason to pass from one extremity unto another, since you have so cunningly deceived me, and have caused so many miseries to fall upon me. Truly Mazares, I do admire at the pleasure of the Gods in saving your life, since you have not only been the cause of my miseries, but of all Asia, which had not been up in Arms if you had not carryed me away. Cease Madam (replyed this sad Prince) cease I beseech you from any further aggravations of my Crime, since I see how great it is; for without the consideration of the mise∣ries of others, I need think upon none but what I have caused unto you: But Madam my repentance is so sharp, that if you did but know the bitterness of it, I beleeve you would pity me; and though it be not proportionable to the greatness of my Crime, yet I cannot impose a sharper pennance upon my self, then that I should my self put you into the hands of Cyrus, that happy Rival, whom the Gods do favour in so high a manner, that his very Rivals themselves are ready to release unto him that Prin∣cess whom they love as well as he doth: For this Madam, I have quitted my Desart, unto which I had confined my self: To this end I came into Lidia under a disguised Name; and it is my real resolution to get you out of Prison: And the Gods have so far smiled upon my Project, that if you will Madam, you shall be released from hence, and carryed into the Camp of Cyrus.

As soon as Mazares had spoke these vvords, he sighed so seriously, and in such earnest manner, as one might see his repentance was real: But yet for all that, the Princess Mandana could not believe it; yet sometimes the feeling expressions of this sorrowful Prince would something stagger her thoughts, but then immediately af∣ter,

diffidence would wholly seize upon her heart, and she could not possibly be∣lieve, that the design of Prince Mazares was really to set her at liberty: She per∣ceived he had a great and powerful intelligence in the Cittadel, and she was well e∣nough perswaded, that he who could so cunningly come in, could as vvell get out: But her belief told her at the same time, that his end was to carry her away the se∣cond time, and not really to release her, so that all his perswasive arguments could not move her, but she resolutely told him, she had rather stay where she was a pri∣soner still, then to be fooled in following him: Alas Madam (said he unto her) Will you not believe me when I protest repentance, and to explate my crime, would set you at liberty? I must ingenuously confess, that I have not power to say I do not love: And Madam, I am resolved not to make a mixture of any lyes and truths to∣gether, but I do most solemnly protest in the presence of those Gods which must make all my projects prosperous, that this passion is without the least spark of any hope, or any pretention unto you in the world: I desire no more but a pardon of my crime, and to set you at liberty, if it be obtained, I shall not murmure at my death: It is but just that this tormenting passion be still in my soul, as a more se∣vere penance for my fault, and so be pleased to look upon it, and questionless you will allow it, especially considering that I sue for no other recompence: However, be not so preposterously resolute as to believe me, vvhen I told a prejudicial lye, and not to believe me when I tell you a most real truth, which shall set you at liberty: No, no, Mazares, said the Princess, neither you nor any else shall deceive me twice; I trusted you before, because I thought you incapable of deceiving me, but since you have deceived me once, I will never trust you again: Do not think Ma∣dam, replyed he, that it is now possible I should have any ill design upon you: How if I had any such? How could I put it into act? 'Tis true, I can get you out of prison, because the Camp of Cyrus is neer, and a safe place of retreat: But should I have any design to carry you for any ends of my own, how is it possible I should effect it? Sardis would be no safety to hide you in it, all the Country is full of Forces belonging unto Cyrus, what therefore could I do with you? I know not, said she, neither where Cyrus is, or what course you would take, but I know ve∣ry well I cannot trust you: Why Madam, said he unto her, Will you refuse your liberty, because it is offered by a Prince whom you do not love? The reason why I love him not (replyed she) is because I do not believe he has any intention to re∣lease me, and designs no further then to make me change my Chains; and truly I had rather (since I think you only intend to remove me from prison to prison) be with the Princess of Lydia, then with you. To make it apparent Madam, said he, That I have no ends of my own in it, be pleased to know, that my design is not on∣ly to release you, but the Princess Palmis also, and that it is by a devoted servant unto a Woman of hers that I have this intelligence in this Cittadel; and therefore Madam you need not doubt the sincerity of my intentions: I doubt all, replied she, For I had rather suspect your words, then that they should deceive me again: But Orsanus; (said she, and turned towards me) I did not think it possible that you should second your Master in such a piece of service as this, and I have alwayes known so much virtue in your mind, that I rather will think he deludes you, then that you have any intentions to delude me, as he hath: Madam, replied I, give me leave to assure you, that the Prince Mazares hath no intentions to deceive you.

Alas Orsanus (said she) it seems you are not so wise as I am, if you think so: Truly Madam (said Martesia, speaking to the Princess) Since Orsanus sayes it, methinks credit ought to be given to his words, because he is not in Love, and by consequence more to be believed then the Prince Mazares: To testifie unto you Ma∣dam (said my Master speaking to Mandana) I will remain in your prison after you are gone out, and an illustrious friend, who I met with in my solitude, shall con∣duct you to the most happy Cyrus, whil'st I stay here, and patiently indure the death which Croessus shall give me, and I promise you to accept it with much joy, so you will promise me a favourable memory: And I will do more then that also if you please (said he, being transported with the violence of his Love and dispair, to see she would not believe him) for I will kill my self before you go out of that prison

which I will open unto you: If I could believe what you speak, (replyed the Prin∣cess) I should tell you, that your death in that manner would extreamly trouble me, but in truth I cannot believe you: However, I beseech you acknowledg thus much at the least, that if hereafter you once believe me, you will then lessen your hatred towards me: I shall do more then that, said she, For if ever I once believe you, I shall be able to forget what's past, and to pardon you, and I think liberty so sweet, and your act so generous, that I should afford you my esteem and friend∣ship: But the worst is, I neither do nor can trust you; and looking upon you as a Prince, who would deceive me once more, I look upon you with anger and hatred. Was ever misery comparable to mine? (cryed he out) You tell that you vvould pardon me, and afford me your friendship, if what I speak were true; and yet you are so unjust, as to look upon me with anger and hatred, though truth it self is not truer, then that I would release you: I beseech you tell me what I should do to per∣swade you of this truth, and to lay open my heart unto you: I know not, replyed she, but I am sure I cannot believe what you say; therefore go and move those that let you in, to let you out presently, and content your self that I am so generous as not to ruine you, by advertising the Guards who I am sure you have not corrupted, that you are here: Do not think that the reason why I do it not, is because I make any doubts whether what you say be true or false; but my reason is, because I am not cruel, and because your first services were so considerable, that I will not be the cause of your death: For Heavens sake Madam (said he unto her) do not drive me to dispair, but believe me: For Heavens sake, replyed she, trouble me no more, but leave me in quietness: I beseech you deare Martesia (said this Prince) perswade your illustrious Mistress to credit my words: Sir (replyed the wise Lady) I profess unto you, that for my part I do believe you, but truly I dare not advise the Princess to do so, because it is not fitting for me to give her counsel in any thing: What shall I do then? replyed he, Or indeed what can I do but die? For since I quitted my solitary life only to deliver you (said he to Mandana) and so to obtain my pardon, and am not able to obtain either, I will never look for a∣ny thing but death, and I will seek for it upon all occasions in all places, where there is any possibility of finding it: Indeed Madam, since you cannot indure me, neither as your Lover, nor as your friend, nor I am able to make you believe my repentance, I must and will find out such dangers, as shall certainly rid you for ever from the sight of that Prince whom you hate, and from whose hand you vvill not receive your liberty.

The Princess hearing my Master speak so violently, did believe this peril and dan∣ger whereof he spoke, was, that he would fight with the illustrious Cyrus; so that she expressed some fears that he would make some attempts against this Prince: He no sooner understood her meaning, but not giving her time to express her thoughts: I understand you Madam, said he unto her, I understand you very well: You would have Cyrus have the advantage of me, because you would not have me fight with him: But never fear Madam, that I will ever entertain any such thoughts against him, I owe more respect unto you then so, and I am so obliged unto that Prince, as I cannot do it with honour: Therefore Madam if it be my fortune to die by the hand of illustrious Cyrus, he must seek me out, and kill me without any defending of my self, which I know is infinitely below him. These Madam are the thoughts of him, whom you think would deceive you: And I beseech you believe, that when I meet Cyrus, I shall beg my death from his hand as a recompence for that service which I would have done you, as the only remedy against all thoseevils which I in∣dure: And when all this is done Madam, will you hate Mazares both alive and dead? Whil'st this Prince was speaking thus, the Princess looked seriously upon him; and sometimes I was in hope his perswasions had wrought upon her, but yet they did not; yet notwithstanding she used such sweet expressions to him after he had decla∣red himself concerning Cyrus, that if the conference had lasted a little longer, I know not whether this virtuous Princess had not been overcome. But the Captain who let us enter, coming to tell us that it was full time to go out of the Cittadel, a necessity compelled us to retire, without any further perswasions upon the Princess

Mandana, and with deep sorrows, that so great an enterprize so neer execution should be uneffected: And when my Master came to his own Lodging, and related the story unto Belesis, I could not chuse but admire at the greatness of his Passion by the horror of his despair: Death and nothing else was his thoughts; he could not imagine why he should or how he could live: so that Belesis and I had much ado to moderate the fury which he conceived against himself.

My greatest admiration was, that the sight of Mandana should more augment his repentance, and confirm him in his generous design: The Guards upon the Princess; her Lodgings, and a thousand other circumstances, which he observed at his entrance and coming out of the Cittadel, though it was very dark, were so many additions to his sorrows: 'Tis I, would he say, only I, that am the fatal cause of her Imprisonment; that she meets with all these horrid objects, and that she enjoys not a minutes rest; and she hath rightly proportioned her hatred, according to those miseries which I have caused upon her; for I think it is impossible to be hated more then she does me; if she did not, she would never chuse an Imprisonment under a Prince who hath a potent Army to oppose Cyrus, rather then hazard her self upon that danger which she fears: Certainly she hates me more then she doth the King of Pontus; for if she did not, though I should carry her away the second time, yet it were a easier matter for Cyrus to force her out of my hands, then from two Princes who have all Asia engaged in their Interests: But questionless it is the Will of the Gods, that she will not only not love me, but infinitely hate me: Yet for all this, I understand, or think I understand (for my Reason is so ravelled, that I dare not credit my own in∣tellectuals) that if Mandana could beleeve me really penitent, she would then esteem me, and be my real friend: For Heavens sake (said he) go to Martesia once more, and solicit her to do more then I my self can: Bid her perswade her incom∣parable Mistress, not to refuse her Liberty, and let her contrive what security I shall give her, that my only end is her Releasement: The matter requires haste; for if our enterprize be not executed while the Treaty lasts, it will never be effected, since if it do break off, I must go into the Army, and consequently cannot stay here unless suspected: The counterfeiting my self to be not well at this time, that I may have more liberty to negotiate the business, does already begin to perplex the King of Pontus; therefore dear Orsanus, try once more what may be done, that our enter∣prize may not be frustrate. You may imagine, that I was not able to deny such a request unto a Prince who had so much prevalency with me, and who required no∣thing that was unjust: But for a more colourable pretence of the business, I took the Letter which Belesis was to deliver unto Celenise, and intended to desire Mar∣tesia to deliver it unto her: so that foliciting the Captain who was of our Intelli∣gence, he permitted me the next night to enter into the Cittadel, and helped me to the speech of Martesia, unto whom I used my best arguments, that she would let the Princess know how much she did prejudice her self in refusing her Liberty: and in∣deed I was so importunate with her, that I am confident she beleeved me: but as for the Princess, she told me, that she was very mistrustful still. Afterwards, when I told her I had a Letter for Celenise, she replyed upon me, that it would be to no purpose, because the Princess Palmis would certainly never go out of Prison but by the hand of her Father; and that Celenise would never leave her Mistress; yet I beseeched her to send for her, to the end I might give her Tegeus his Letter, which Martesia did. When she came, she told me with fears in her eyes, that she was much beholding unto Tegeus, but she could not perswade her Mistress to go out of the Cittadel, nor could she possibly leave her. When I found that the assistance of these two Ladies, Martesia and Celenise, were ineffectual: I was so urgent with Martesia to let me speak unto the Princess Mandana once more, that at last she per∣mitted me; and I followed her into her Chamber, after she had asked leave, and assured her Mazares was not there: But all my Rhetorical Reasons were not able to raise one grain of credit unto what I desired she should beleeve; all that I could possibly obtain from her, was, that I brought her to make a doubt upon the matter, which she never did till this last time: yet since she would not hazard her going out upon doubtful terms, it did not alter her resolution. Madam (said I then unto her)

suppose that what I say be true, were it not a piece of Injustice in you not to accept of his intentions to repair the fault which he hath committed? For my part Madam, methinks it is not suitable to your usual goodness; for what would you have my Master do? I know his very thoughts; and do assure you, his coming unto Croessus was only with a design of releasing you; and that his only ayms in fighting for him, was only to set you at Liberty: But you Madam will not accept of that Liberty which he offers you, he will not stay any longer on that side which is not yours, nor dare he go on to the side of Cyrus unless he carry you with him: What then Madam should he do? I beseech you suffer not so great a Prince to perish, as que∣stionless he will, unless you afford him some hopes of being justified in your opinion, and beleeve that his Virtue transcends his Love, and his Repentance his Crime. Truly Madam, I am in more then half a mind to tell you, that I will never go from this place, until my humble prayers have obtained what I desire in my Masters be∣half. Orsanus, said she unto me, your expressions do both trouble and affright me; for how can I think you speak sincerely? and yet how can I think you can de∣ceive me? and how can I ever imagine that a Prince who was so unjust as to carry me away, should afterwards be so generous as to repair his faults? yet to speak sin∣cerely unto you, I begin to think it not impossible: But my greatest difficulty is, that I cannot credit the Prince Mazares: I perceive there is a way to get out of prison, but all perswasions cannot move me to follow it: and the truth is, the act of the Prince Mazares, and the act of the King of Pontus, makes me to suspect every thing, and dares not trust any thing; therefore I pray you importune me no more unto a thing which I cannot do. What then will become of my Master (said I unto her) if you be not pleased to shew him a way how he may manifest it unto you, that his real intentions are to release you? I beseech you Madam, think upon it, and pro∣cure not unto your self hereafter the name of a murtherer of the most virtuous Prin∣cess upon Earth. To shew you Orsanus, said she unto me, that I will not deny you every thing, but that I should be glad the Prince Mazares had some opportunities to express some convincing testimonies of his real penitency, and an infallible way to recover my esteem and friendship, tell him, that I would have him go and fight for my Liberty in fighting for Cyrus, which if he do, I shall then beleeve that his real intention was to release me. But Madam, said I unto her, Cyrus perhaps will not give my Master any good entertainment. Questionless he will receive him as his friend, replyed Mandana, if he be perswaded that his design was to release me. To make a better way for his acceptance, I will write a Letter unto Cyrus, which Mazares shall give him, which shall testifie how I esteem him if he become as vir∣tuous as formerly he was. Then did I accept of her offer; not only because I had a great desire my Master should be out of Sardis, lest our plot should be discovered by Croessus or the King of Pontus; but also because I conceived it would be an infi∣nite advantage unto my Master if he were once the friend of the illustrious Cyrus. In conclusion Madam, this great Princess did write her Letter unto Cyrus, and told me in good earnest, that if Mazares took this course, she would think his ayms were honest, and she would let him have her esteem and friendship; so that in this assu∣rance I left her: yet I did attempt a little further in my Masters behalf: but do what Martesia and I could, this was all we could obtain. After this, I went unto my Ma∣ster, who expected me with great impatience, though he had no hopes in the world of my effecting any thing; and truly it was happy his hope was so low, for it induced him to accept of this Proposition which the Princess made with better resentments: and when I assured him that if he took this course, the Princess would then freely pardon him, and remit him into her esteem, he could not chuse but rejoyce: yet was he sorry to see he could not obtain any thing from the Princess but by turning on the other side without any colourable pretence: and he made a dorr, whether or no he should deliver this Letter unto Cyrus; but after a strong contest of two hours with his own heart, his Virtue did at last overcome his Passion: and after all this time of contemplat on with himself, he returned unto Belesis, and me with much melan∣lancholy in his face, but yet vvith more tranquility in his eyes, then vve had seen of many days. Well my friends (said he unto us) my Passion hath submitted; I have

got the Victory, and since I cannot release my Princess, I am resolved to do what∣soever she commands me: But since I am a Delinquent to the King of Assyria, as well as unto the Princess, and desire to expiate that crime as well as the other, I wish we could by the means of Tegeus, and the rest of our friends release him.

As he was speaking this, Andramites came unto him, and said that things were all in a mighty confusion, that Croessus and Abradates were quite out, and that A∣bradates and the King of Pontus were declared enemies, that all the Princes and peo∣ple also began to side, that one whose name was Araspes, and who had formerly quitted the party of the illustrious Cyrus, and came unto the King of Lydia, did most cunningly foment these divisions; that according to his promise he came to tell him, how the King of Susiana (knowing Croessus sought for nothing but a pretence to break off the Treaty, concerning the exchange of Prince Artamas for you Ma∣dam) was resolved to quit his side: And moreover (said Andramites) I am sure for my part that I shall be clapt up in prison, so that I am absolutely resolved to fol∣low your fortunes, which will be, (and the best course) to go unto the party of Cyrus: Nor am I to be blamed, if for the security of my person, and releasement of my Mistress, I go and take side with the Enemy. The Prince Mazares hearing Andramites speak thus, was very glad of it, because he saw a convenient way for his revolt, and that it would be much more easie for him to get out of the Camp of Croessus with others, then if he went to Cyrus by himself, for the King of Pontus did keep many vigilant eyes upon him, as long as he was at Sardis. After then he had lent an attentive ear unto all that Andramites told him, who did aggravate the inju∣stice of Croessus with as much zeal as possibly could be in a man, who longed to be with his fair Doralisa, he told him, that all his interests should ever be his, and that he would do whatsoever pleased him: Yet (said he unto him) If we could devise a way to release the prisoners, we should be more acceptable to Cyrus, and I have a most infallible way to effect it, if you will leave the whole matter unto me: In conclusion Madam, Andramites consented unto all my Masters desires; and Belesis and my self did so negotiate with Tegeus, that the business was ready for execution the next day following: But we could not possibly devise which way to release the Prince Artamas, because he had a particular Guard over him, with whom those of Tegeus had no acquaintance; and the reason why he was more strictly guarded then the rest, was, because he had a hundred thousand friends in Lydia: So that the same which was his happiness, turned at this time to his misery. And thus we were con∣tented to endeavour only the liberty of the King of Assyria, of Sosicles, of Tege∣us, of Feraulas, and of the stranger Anaxaris: Since he who commanded the Guard over them was an intimate friend unto Tegeus (though Croessus was igno∣rant of it) there was no great difficulty in the business; therefore about two hours before day, the Prince Mazares, Belesis, some other of their friends and my self, went unto the Captain who stayed for us, and as it was agreed amongst us, he carried us unto the King of Assyria's Chamber, who waking at the noyse which we made at our entrance, was extreamly amazed to see, (by the help of a great Candle which hung in the middle of the Room) that it was the Prince Mazares (whom he thought dead) which approached towards him. This Prince being na∣turally of a violent temper, knew not well whether he was awake, or dream't, or whether it was a man or a Ghost: But he raised himself upon his Bed, and drawing the Curtain which was of T••rian Purple; What do I see (said he in a furious and loud tone) Did you come from the shadows of death to pronounce the end of my life? Or are you yet amongst the living, that I may punish you for your Treason against me? Sir (replied the Prince my Master without any turbulency) you shall know from whence I came when you are out of your prison, from whence I came to re∣lease you, that I may thereby make some satisfaction for the wrong which I have done you: How Mazares (replied he) Must I be beholding unto you for my li∣berty? You must Sir (replied my Master) But I beseech you make hast and follow us: No, no, (replied that violent Prince) I will never owe my liberty to that man, who took Mandana from me: When I have released you (replied Mazares) I

shall never think you beholding to me for it, since in giving you liberty, I have gi∣ven you nothing but what I took away from you: Yet if you will help the illustrious Cyrus to release Mandana, you must accept of that liberty which I offer you, and accept of it presently, for time is precious. Ah Mazares, said the King of Assy∣ria, Have you found out way to release me? Yet if I do accept of it, I will not promise you to forget what's past, because then I should forget Mandana and my self both: All that I will say is, That I will use all the faculties in my power that my friends, my Rivals, and my Enemies shall not exceed me in generosity; and therefore it may be supposed, that I am not less generous then you are, and that I shall be Master of my own thoughts: However Sir (replied the Prince Mazares) I be∣seech you make all the hast you can: Then the King of Assyria's Guards, who were all of our intelligence, helped to dress him: Then Mazares offering him a Sword with the same respect he used to him when he was in Babylon: Here Sir (said he unto him) take that, and punish Mazares with it when you have released Man∣dana, if you think your self not satisfied: Oh, I wish to the Gods (replied the King of Assyria, in accepting the Sword very civilly) that vve could release that Divine Princess vvhom vve have made so miserable, and against vvhom both you and I have been so culpable and unfortunate.

After this, striving vvith himself, be cooled his fury and anger, and thinking Andramites, whom he knevv to be the same vvhich guarded the Princess, and brought him to Sardis, he followed Mazares and him, or to say better, vve all follovved Tegeus and the Captain, vvho guarded the prisoners, vvho by a back pair of stairs did let us out so secretly, that those Souldiers vvho vvere not of the Guard never perceived us. After this vve met vvith no rub in the business, because An∣dramites, vvho vvas Lievtenant-General of Croessus his Army, had caused a Cap∣tain, vvho vvas his creature, to guard a Gate of the Tovvn, tovvards Abradates his Quarter, vvhether vve intended to go, and as vve did, vvithout any obstacle at all. As soon as vve came unto the Tent of Abradates, vve advised upon our best course, and it vvas resolved Sir (said Orsanus, addressing his speech to Cyrus) that to prevent all danger, these Princes should not yet come into your Camp, be∣cause the day began to break, and because the Brother of Andramites, vvho kept the pass over the River Halis, vvould not have been to order things so suddenly to let us pass. Also since the Quarter of Abradates vvas in a very advantagious Trench, he did not fear that Croessus vvould fall upon him. Moreover it vvas imagined, that Croessus could not so soon recover his astonishment, into vvhich the departure of the Prince of Clasomena, and the escape of the King of Assyria had put him: And in the mean time, lest you Sir should be too much alarum'd, and that you might give order that the Forces of Abradates might pass with less difficulty, I obtained leave Sir to come and acquaint you, that your Army was to be strengthened with three of the most valiant Princes upon earth, with many other men of Quality, and with four thousand of the best Souldiers in all the Army of Croessus. Feraulas did think to have the honour of this imployment from me; but since he was not able to make so perfect a relation of all things unto you Sir, as I could, therefore I op∣posed his design: He will not long be deprived of the honour of seeing you Sir, for the King of Susiana resolves to disingage this evening, as soon as it is dark, to pass over the river Halis before day, and to be with you at Sun-rise.

This Sir is the substance of what I have to tell you, most humbly beseeching you to believe, that I have truly related the generous alteration that is in my Masters mind; and therefore I conjure you to look upon him as your friend, and not as your Rival: But since my prayers are too inconsiderable to obtain my desires, I most humbly beseech these two great Princesses to intercede for me, making no question, but they are able to obtain them for me.

Orsanus having ended his Speech, Panthea and Araminta did second his desires, and intreated Cyrus to bury all past passages in the pit of Oblivion, and not to doubt of the Prince Mazares his repentance. Cyrus would not let them go on: I

beseech you, said he unto them, Do not take from me the glory of vanquishing my self, and let not Mazares be a debtor unto your generosity, for that which he expects from mine: Though I must confess it is no small difficulty to admit a Rival for a friend, and such a Rival especially as carried away the Princess Mandana; and therefore by virtue may be beholding unto such examples as your selves: But since the Prince Mazares is not now my Rival, and can become my friend, I shall easi∣ly admit him so, and by his example, shall perhaps become as generous in forget∣ing the wrongs he hath done Mandana, as he hath been in his repentance: But Madam (said Cyrus, and spoke unto Panthea) doubtless it is to you I am a debtor for these great Auxiliaries which the valiant Abradates brings, since he would ne∣ver have so sharply resented the injustice of Croessus, but for the love which he bears unto you: I would it were as you say Sir (replied she) for I should be glad that I were able to pay any part of that debt which I owe you: I would it were the will of the Gods (replied the Princess Araminta) That I had the same advantage you have, and that the King my Brother would be moved unto repentance by the excel∣lent example of the Prince Mazares: However it be Madam (said Cyrus unto this Princess) I beseech you do not let it trouble you to see the Forces of Croessus weak∣ned; and mine strengthened, since I will ingage my word, that the sooner I am Conquerour, the sooner shall the misfortunes of your house end. In the mean time, since it is requisite some orders should be given for the reception of those who are coming to help us to conquer, I beseech you give me leave to depart from you.

After this, Cyrus retired, leaving the heart of Panthea full of joy, and carry∣ing Orsanus with him, of whom he asked a thousand questions, in returning to his Quarter.

As soon as he come there, he made choice of some Troops which he vvould send to receive Abradates, and the rest, with whom Orsanus returned, to assure his Master that Cyrus would protect him. After this, Cyrus ordered all things himself, even to the very lodgings of the King of Susiana, of Mazares, of Andramites; of the rest of any quality who came with them, and of all the rest of the Regiments which they brought, for he would not fail in the least circumstance of what was fit∣ing: In retarning to his Tent, he met Aglatidas and Ligdamis, and carried them with him to acquaint them (as men of tender and passionate souls) with what had happened: Do you not admire (said he unto them, after he had related the sub∣stance of what Orsanus told him) at the odness of my phantastical fate, which al∣wayes differs from all other destinies in the world? Do you not see how I have found a Rival whom I cannot look upon as an Enemy, nor hate, unless I go against the Law of generosity, but I must admit him into the degree of a friend, and protect him in my Army, who perhaps will help me to release Mandana, that he may car∣ry her away the second time? Not but that I do believe all Orsanus told me, whose honesty I cannot suspect; yet for all that, I have much ado to understand how it is possible one should love, and never pretend to be loved again. If you had offend∣ed as Mazares hath (replied Aglatidas) as amorous as you are, I believe you would think it enough if you vvere pardoned, and be contented with it: I think so too, said Cyrus, But I think also, that as soon as I was pardoned, I should desire something further, for the very Nature of Love is to desire it; and it must necessa∣rily be concluded, that if Mazares desire no more, he is not in Love: However, I know it is impossible to leave loving Mandana, and therefore I am certain Mazares will be my Rival for ever: Yet it appears plainly (replied Ligdamis) that genero∣sity hath at this present a great power upon the heart of this Prince, otherwise he would never have released the King of Assyria, who is his Rival as well as you are: What would you have me say, said Cyrus, but that all accidents unto me are so full of wonder, that they deprive me of my reason. After this, Cyrus was very sorry that Mandana would not let Mazares release her: and immediately after he would be very glad of it that he had not, thinking it a shame any should release her but himself: yet however he was very unquiet in his thoughts, but his unquietness lasted not long, for the constancy which he found in Mandana's mind did dissipate all manner of other fears or doubts or perplexities. 'Tis true, he had many causes of vexation other∣wise;

yet he found his Party so considerably strengthened, that his hopes of Victory did sweeten every thing else; so that he passed away the rest of the night with A∣glatidas and Ligdamis in much serenity of mind: Yet he slept very little that night, as well because the sight of Mazares would trouble him, as in expectation of his new addition of Forces. He was no sooner advertised by his Spies which he had purposely set, that Abradates had passed over the River Halis with his Troops; but he took horse, after he had sent to acquaint the Kings of Phrigia and Hircania, and other Princes of his Army: so that in a very short time having abundance with him, he went to meet these Princes some thirty furlongs from his Camp. He was no sooner come on to a little rising ground, but he saw the Troops of Abradates appear, and those which he had sent out meet with them; so that marching forward with about five hundred Horses only, he met Abradates and his Rival: When these two Bodies were so neer, that the first Ranks might know each other, the King of Assyria, Abradates and Mazares (out of the respect which they owed unto Cyrus as their ancient Conqueror, and as now to be their Protector) did leave their main Body, and advanced towards him: Cyrus no sooner saw their action, but he did the same, both sides alighting from their Horses at the same time some twenty paces from each other. Abradates, as it was agreed between the King of Assyria, Ma∣zares and himself, did advance the first, and presented the rest unto Cyrus. Sir, said he unto him, If I had come alone unto you, I should have feared my recepti∣on; but since I bring with me two such valiant Princes, and so many gallant men which follow them, I dare hope you will not deny us protection, especially when you consider, that I have brought a Prince, who would have brought the Princess Mandana to you, if she would have given credit to him, and who would have brought the Prince Artamas also if it had been possible. Upon his saying so, the King of Assyria and Mazares saluted Cyrus: the first of these with a kind of angry civility, and the other with a most melancholy respect: Cyrus returned these salutes very civilly, though with more coldness then he resolved; yet he spoke unto them with incomparable generosity as soon as he had overcome his natural repugnancy to embrace his Rivals and the Ravishers of Mandana; and as soon as this averse Cere∣mony was over, I make no doubt at all of Victory now (said he unto them) nor can Fortune as powerful as she is prevent the Releasement of Mandana. You may see by this Sir (said Mazares unto him, and gave him Mandana's Letter) that the adored Princess you speak of might have been out of Prison had she pleased, and that I did my best to obtain my pardon. Cyrus then taking Mandana's Letter from the hand of his Rival with as great an agitation of spirit as Mazares had in giving it, he opened it, and after a civil Complement unto the Princess, he read these words.

MANDANA to the Invincible CYRUS.

IF the Prince Mazares be so generous as to give you this Letter, and will fight for you, then receive him as if he had released me, since it was long only of my self, that I was not released by him; Render therefore unto his Virtue that which I have refused him; and be assured he will merit your friendship if is be true that his repentance be real: Therefore without any remembrance of his carrying me away from Sinope, think how he protected me at Babylon, and would have released me out of Sardis: Live therefore with him as if he were always your Friend, and as if he had never been your Rival; And be assured that you will sensibly oblige her who is the most just and most acknowledging person in the world. Adieu; Extract out of the last words in this Letter all the c••nso∣lation that she can give you, whose Name is with a true Epithite, Ʋnfortunate

MANDANA.

Whilest Cyrus was reading this Letter, the King of Assyria's mind was full of un∣imaginable torment; and speaking unto Mazares in a low voyce, You are a happy man (said he unto him) that can with such a calm and moderate Passion give

Mandana's Letter unto your Rival. I do not think my self to be in any condition of envy (replyed Mazares sadly) and I beleeve you would think so as well as I, if you did but know my heart. As they were thus talking together, Cyrus having read this Letter which infused much calmness into his spirit, he looked upon Mazares with much mildness; and assured him most obligingly and generously both, that he would esteem him as the Releaser of Mandana, and never remember his act at Si∣nope: So that Mazares, maugre the Passion of his Soul, was ravished with admira∣tion as well as the King of Susiana. But since the King of Assyria did impatiently resent this discourse, Cyrus did end it very handsomly: And Abradates did present Andramite: unto him; Also Mazares presented Belesis, telling him, that this his illustrious Friend could well testifie his Repentance: Also Anaxaris, Sosicles, Tege∣us, and Feraulas coming up towards him, Cyrus embraced them with much joy, especially the last of these: After which, taking horse, he rid towards the Camp; where Cyrus was no sooner arrived, but according to the Orders which he had given, a Councel of War was held in his Tent, to consult whether the Truce should still be observed, or whether this accident ought to move them to break it off: Mazares gave there his voyce as freely the first day, as if he had been an ancient Friend of Cyrus: The question was a while in doubt: some gave their votes to break off the Treaty, and take advantage of the disorder in the Army of Croessus; and others af∣firmed that it did not suit with the glory of Cyrus to do so: Those who were of this opinion, said, that this which happened was an advantage which could not be at∣tributed unto Cyrus, since he had yet done nothing but receive his Prisoners, and give retreat unto an ill treated Prince, and unto some other Malecontents of Qua∣lity; that therefore patience was to be used, since the Truce would not last above three days. In conclusion, the business being well debated, how great a desire so∣ever Cyrus had to fight, especially having now got the Pass over the River Halis free by the means of Andramites his Brother, yet notwithstanding he would never violate the Laws of War: So that this being the Result of the Councel, all the Princes retired unto their Tents which were prepared for them, except Abradates, whom Cyrus did wait upon unto a little Town where his dear Panthea lodged, giving Orders unto Artabases to withdraw, to the end there might be no sign of any Cap∣tivity. Cyrus would have Andramites also to follow Abradates, that he might have a sight of Doralisa, thinking the Gods would one day reward him for having comi∣seration upon unfortunate Lovers like himself; and for his care in sweetening the bitter Pills of their miseries, though he saw no remedy for his own.