The life of Donna Rosina a novel : being, a pleasant account of the artifices and impostures of a beautiful woman, who jilted and cheated the most experienc'd sharpers, and made all persons unhappy, that thought her handsome / originally a Spanish relation, in three parts, done into English, by the ingenious Mr. E. W. ...

Part the First.

THIS Miracle of Female Sub∣tilty, whose Life and Ac∣tions are our present Sub∣ject, was Young, Spright∣ly, and very Beautiful; Three Dangerous Advantages when they are attended with those Qualifications, for which she was no less Famous, namely, Craft, Impudence, and Hypocrisy, and an insa∣tiable

Longing after other People's Goods; and all these strengthned by a natural Pro∣pensity, as being the Issue of Parents, who, instead of giving a timely Check to these Vicious Inclinations, rather incouraged her in them by their ill Example, as being ad∣dicted to the same themselves from their Youth.

Signior Trapassa, Father to this worthy Person, whose Atchievements we intend to Relate, had been Condemned to the Gal∣lies, for having Assumed to himself an Or∣der of Knighthood, before he had made the necessary Tryals, upon which the King bestows that Honour, by the Sovereign Council of Portugal. His design in doing it, was, that he might the more conveni∣ently follow his Profession of Stealing about the Court, where he was Respected as a Knight; and the better under that Cloak to play those Pranks of Villany, wherein he was such a Professor, that the most ex∣pert Thief might have learnt Lessons from him.

A certain Woman whom he used an un∣lawful Trade withal, was so Incensed a∣gainst him, upon the Account of some Jea∣lousy, that he reserved not all his Kindness for her, that she put in a Charge against him, the Issue whereof was, that he was preferr'd to the Gallies, where he passed o∣ver

the Term of his Condemnation, and somewhat more. He was put into that Squadron of Slaves, which is called the Squadron of Spain, and turned over from Toledo to St. Mary's Port, with the rest who were in the same Predicament of Slavery. He made an Attempt to recover his Liber∣ty, but the Plot being discover'd, he was put to greater Hardship than he had other∣wise been.

As soon as the Lady Estephania (so was the Jealous Woman that had shewed him that Trick, called) understood he was gone to Exercise that painful Employment, tho' she was not of an over Compassionate Na∣ture, yet she very seriously Repented that she had been the Occasion of his Misery; and considered, that she could not make better Satisfaction for that Injury, than by proffering herself to him in Marriage, as soon as the time of his Pennance was Expi∣red.

And what inclined her the more to this kind of Reparation was, that she had al∣ready a Daughter by him, which Child is the Heroine of our present History. With this Resolution she left the Court, and went to Sevil, hoping in that great and famous City, she might the sooner hear some News of him, whom she had Reduced to such a wretched Condition, and whom she would

once more have gladly seen at Liberty.

Estephania had a House well Furnished, being a Genoese's Widow, who had left her very well to pass: That, and the Care she took to go in rich Cloaths, gained her such Repute at Sevil, that she was lookt up∣on as some Person of Quality, but she soon lost that, when the Relation of her Life came to be known; especially this Particu∣lar of it. That out of an excess of Jealousy she had preferr'd a young Gallant to the Gallies, whom she had often entertain'd on a Feather bed. This imprudent Acti∣on made her Abominable in the Opinion of the most intimate of her own Sex, whose Indignation she allow'd to be more just a∣gainst her, when she consider'd, that she had Prostituted her self to an Impostor, and a Rascal fit only for the Gallies.

These Reasons and Reproaches, obliged her to remove from Madrid to Sevil, car∣rying all she could conveniently with her, and Selling the rest, which brought her in a considerable Sum of Money. Having thus order'd her Affairs, she went towards Sevil by Coach, with two Maids to wait on her, intending to continue there, till the time of Trapassa's Serving in the Gallies was ex∣pired, for she kept an exact Account of it, which being near out, she understood that the Spanish Gallies were arrived safe at St.

Mary's Port. She immediately went thi∣ther, not in so high a Dress as she wore at Sevil, but in a more modest Habit, that she might not be afterwards Reproach'd, That she was Wife of a Galley-Slave, whom she had Courted out of Chains to her Embra∣ces.

She was soon Informed that her Gallant was in the Captain's own Galley, very Jo∣cund, and advanced to the Office of a Fore∣man, a Preheminence among the Slaves which Exempts them from Rowing, which he had acquir'd of the General by the Plea∣santness of his Conversation; and was by this time so well acquainted with the Gal∣lies, that he seemed not to Value whether ever he came out of them. But the arrival of Estephania Remedied all. Her first Bu∣siness was to Treat about his Liberty with those Persons on whom the Matter depend∣ed; and feeding them with Money, Tra∣passa had no Knowledge of her Design, as not having seen her, nor stir'd out of the Galley; so that he was much Surprized when he came to understand that some Person did not only Sollicit his Freedom, but was likewise Liberal of their Money to procure it; for it never entred into his Thoughts, that his old Love Estephania, should have changed the cruel Humour he had left her in, into Mildness and Compas∣sion

for him. All things being agreed on, for Trapassa's Discharge, his Chains were struck off, and he was told, he might go whither he would. In the mean time could not tell who had been the Author of that Happiness, which was no small one, in re∣gard that when poor Slaves have served out the time of their Condemnation; yet there are some Pretences found to hinder their being set at Liberty; so that though they have been Sentenc'd only to Serve 4 Years, yet have been forced to remain in Servitude Five or Six.

Signior Trapassa was extreamly Astonisht when he found himself in the Presence of Estephania, who stood waiting on the Shoar to receive him, and perceiv'd, that it was only by her means that he had recovered his Freedom. She received him with open Arms; and he, to express his Gratitude, returned the like obliging Caresses to her: So that the Kindness he had now received from her, made him quit his Resentments for the Miseries she had occasion'd him. He was somewhat Disturb'd that she did not appear in that Habit which he had left her at Madrid, as being ignorant of her Design in Disguising herself; nor could she at that time give him an Account of it, by reason the Captain and others who deliver'd him, were present, and whom she was obliged to

entertain at Dinner. Having Treated 'em very handsomely, all withdrew, save only Trapassa, who continued still with his Mi∣striss. Finding themselves alone, they re∣peated their Caresses, and outvied one ano∣ther in Assurances of the Satisfaction they received by that Interview. Trapassa re∣turned her Thanks with all the grateful Ac∣knowledgments imaginable, for the Trou∣ble and Charge she had been at, and the Goodness she had shewn in freeing him from the worst of Slavery. On the other side, Estephania ask'd his Pardon for the Mischief she had procur'd him, and all the Misfor∣tunes her Malice had Occasion'd to him; telling him withal, That she could not ima∣gin any other way to Repair the Injury she had done him, but by joyning Hands with him in Matrimony if he lik'd the Pro∣posal, since she had a Daughter already by him, and Wealth enough for both of them to live at their Ease.

I leave you to Judge, Whether this Mo∣tion was not Pleasing to Trapassa, who was ready to catch at the least Offer of Good Fortune, upon his coming out of so severe a School of Pennance. So that his Answer was in renewing his Embraces, satisfying her with what Joy he accepted of the ad∣vantageous Bargain she Proposed to him; in treating her to give him an Account of

his Daughter, whom he was passionately Desirous to see.

Estephania, over-joy'd to find his Senti∣ments so Agreeable to her Expectation, presented him with a noble Riding Suit, which she had purposely caused to be made for him; and the next Morning betimes they took their Journey towards Sevil, where Trapassa finding his Daughter then about Eight Years old, he acted a part that he had never done before, that is, he was solemnly Married to the Lady Estephania in the Face of the Church. They changed their Lodgings to another Quarter of the City than that where they had formerly dwelt, being resolved to live another kind of Life than they had done before. For Estephania believing that the Hardship her dear Love had endured in the Gallies, had cured him of some of his former Extrava∣gancies, and that the Grey Hairs he had brought from thence, would Reclaim him from his Debauches. She endeavour'd to procure him some Credible Employment in Sevil, as well to keep him out of Idleness, as that he might thereby bring in some∣thing toward House-keeping. But an in∣bred Disposition which was in Trapassa, could not easily be brought under Disci∣pline, and if he had behaved himself a while with some Reservedness, it proceeded from

Influence of the Admonitions and Rebukes which his Wife continually gave him, and not out of any virtuous Inclination; so that through his own Neglect, he could find out no other Business but frequenting Gaming-Houses, Play-Houses, and other vicious pla∣ces, where those who are Naturally inclined to Sloth, usually waste most part of their time. This course of Life extreamly trou∣bled his Wife; who yet willing to avoid all Matrimonial Discontents, wink'd at his Disorders, and endeavour'd to find some Comfort in the Conversation of his Daugh∣ter, whose Beauty was already become the common Discourse of the City.

Trapassa having no settled Business, Idle∣ness being the Seminary of all Vices, tem∣pted him to follow his former Course of Gaming, the Gulf wherein so many fair Estates have been swallowed up. He began at first to Play at small Games, as if for Re∣creation only, but afterwards venturing still higher, he in a short time took the Op∣portunity to lay Hands on the Goods of his Wife. She was sensible enough, that too many of her things were wanting, and doubted not but her Husband had conveyed them away; but all she could do, was, to weep and bemoan her Misfortune, which she charged upon no body but herself. Tra∣passa perceiving her so much disturbed, pro∣mised

Reformation, but the cursed Humour of Gaming continuing upon him, his Luck was so bad, that he Pawned or Sold every thing of Value in his House. Finding him∣self at length reduced to pinching Necessi∣ties, he began to Contrive how he might again Retrieve himself. He would have been content that his Wife, who was yet Handsome, should have turned Common Prostitute, tho' she had but just Recovered her Reputation; but he perceived she was grown so Honest, and so alter'd from what she had been before, that he had not the Confidence to mention it to her: For she grew so extream Melancholly at the Dis∣order'd Demeanour of her Husband, that she seem'd in a manner careless of all things, and little regarded the Education of her Daughter, who was by this time come into the Teens, and by reason of these Distract∣ions between her Parents, liv'd as she plea∣sed, appearing every Day at the Window, not with a little Affectation.

The Grief and Regret which poor Este∣phania conceived at her being reduced to Penury, brought her into a Sickness where∣of she Died about a Year after, with a sin∣cere Repentance for her past Follies, in Hopes to Die as Happy a Death, as her Husband had occasion'd her living an Un∣happy Life. She was very meanly Buried,

Trapassa not having wherewithal to bestow much on her Funeral. He was much con∣cerned at her Death, and acknowledged but too late, his great Oversight in returning to his ill Courses; whereas, if he had taken her Advice, he might have lived Pleasant∣ly all the rest of his Days. All the Com∣fort he had now lest, and the Hope on which he depended for a Livelyhood, was the Beauty of his Daughter, which he be∣liev'd so Charming, as might procure him a Son in Law, who would Relieve his Ne∣cessities, never considering, that in this Age Riches are commonly preferr'd before Ver∣tue, and that Graces and Perfections have seldom much Power in them, if Wealth be lacking.

The unfortunate Trapassa, though op∣pressed with Miseries, could not forbear frequenting the Gaming Houses, not indeed to play himself, for he had not wherewith∣al, but to get some small Present from the Gamesters when they had a good Hand, as is usual in Spain to be bestowed upon those that look on, and is commonly the only Revenue of those that have Ruin'd them∣selves by that pernicious Diversion.

Trapassa being seldom at home, it gave his Daughter the greater freedom to follow her own Sentiments. She would be per∣petually looking out of the Window, which

induc'd a great number of Young Gallants to repair to the Street where she dwelt. The Father was not Ignorant how matters went, and though he might have prevented yet winkt at it, in hopes to see his Daugh∣ter advantageously Married, to help him out, as being the most likely means to re∣trieve his Misfortunes. He therefore left the little Rosina, so was his Daughter call∣ed, to her own Liberty, hoping that by her Insinuations, she would in time have the Disposal of the Hearts and Purses of those that Courted her. His Designs proved more successful than he imagined; for a∣mong many that Languished for her, there was one very Rich, who was Transported with the Love of her. She assumed the Title of Donna, an Honour which belongs only to Persons of Noble Extraction, be∣cause her Mother had used it before, and if she had not, her Daughter would have taken it up, as being a Dignity that Costs little or nothing.

The Person who was so remarkably her Servant, was Agent for some Affairs in Pe∣ru; a Gentleman whose Credit much ex∣ceeded his Estate, and was accounted very Rich, belonging to the Ensuring Office in the Spanish West Indies, and about 50 Years of Age. Though he was satisfied that his M striss had no Fortune, and that he must

also maintain her Father, yet he was re∣solved to take her for Better for Worse; from whence we may deduce this Observa∣tion, That when Love has once taken Pos∣session of an Aged Person, it is very Diffi∣cult to Dispossess him. Laurentia de Sava∣ria, this Amorous Elder was named, who was so inchanted with the Beauty of Rosina, that the Treaty of Marriage was concluded in less than Eight Days, and he had the Ear∣nest of an Happiness, which he thought would have lasted him as long as he Lived. He took his Father in Law into his Family: though he knew him to be a great Gamester. The first Days of the Nuptials were spent as they usually are at such Solemnities; he furnished his Wife with new Gowns, Rings, and Jewels, suitable to his Condition; for being a Person pretty well stricken in Years, he was no Lover of Excess, an Humour not very Pleasing to Rosina, who minded no∣thing so much as rich Cloaths, and Long'd for whatsoever she saw worn by Women of a Quality much above her; and this much Cooled her Love to her Husband, who was of an Indian Disposition, somewhat Cove∣tous, and careful not to Waste his Estate; and being sensible that her Father was an Old Gamester, who had run out all, he durst not Trust his Wife with keeping the Cash, nor with the Expences of his House,

This Proceeding quite Defeated the Hopes of Trapassa, who imagined, that upon this Marriage, he should Command all that was in his Daughter's Power, being still possest with the restless Spirit of Gaming.

Rosina Observing her Husband was Em∣ployed about his Affairs, took Occasion to go abroad every Morning, under pretence of going to Church, to Pray that she might be a Mother; with this Excuse she blinded her Husband, the true Motives of these Sal∣lies being to appear in the Streets, and at Mass. A Citizen's Son of Sevil, taking no∣tice of her, fell instantly in Love with her, one of the most Debauch'd Young Men of his time; who had reduced himself by his Lewdness, into as bad a Condition al∣most, as Trapassa. His Name was Ruperio, a very comely Beau, who proved so Fortu∣nate in Courting Rosina, that she was wholly at his Devotion, expecting to receive such Presents from him, as might put her in a Garb agreeable to her Beauty, above what she could obtain from the Miser her Hus∣band.

The first Demand she made to him, was somewhat Modest, considering she was a Merchant's Wife, namely, to bestow on her a Gown of the same Silk and Fashion that •• Neighbour of hers had, whom she named and a Gold Watch for her side, promising

him, in Requital of these Favours, not to Deny him any thing that was in her Pow∣er. Rosina, by his insolent Boastings, ima∣gined that he had Thousands at Command, and he likewise promised to Comply with her Desires; but being unable to perform the same, he contriv'd how to get that by his Wit, which his Purse would not reach to. He happen'd to be well Acquainted with the Lady, whose Gown he was to match, and going to her, intreated her to Lend it him; pretending it was only for the Representation of a Comedy which was to be acted in a Nunnery. He could not be Denied upon such an Account; so that at the end of Three Days, which time he told Rosina, it would take up to make it, he sent it to her House, when her Husband was abroad in the City about his business. The Watch he told her was not yet finish'd, but should suddenly be brought her; intreating her in the mean time, to accept of another of less Value, as a Pledge for the Security of the other. She returned him Hearty Thanks, extreamly Pleas'd to find he was so Punctual, and to shew herself Grateful, gave him all the Satisfaction he could ex∣pect from her.

He took leave of Rosina, who intended to Persuade her Husband, that a Kinsman of hers had sent her that Gown from Ma∣drid,

to prevent his being Jealous of her. On the other Hand, Ruperio resolved, if possible, to get it again, and return it where it was borrowed. Savaria having no know∣ledge of him, he effected the matter by the following Trick.

Four or Five Days after the delivery of the Gown to Rosina, Ruperio puts himself into the Habit of a Serving Man, and about Dinner comes to Savaria's House, saying, he was Servant to the Lady to whom the Gown belong'd. Savaria order'd him to come in, who told him, he was sent by his Mistress, for the Gown she had Lent Ma∣dam Rosina, only to see the Fashion of it. Savaria turning toward his Wife, ask'd her what Gown the Fellow would have? She presently knew her Gallant: Friend, said she, come hither to Morrow Morning, and you shall have it. But my Mistress, replies Ru∣perio, has commanded me not to come back with∣out it; for this Afternnoon she is to go to a Chri∣stning, at which she is to be Gossip, and she must needs have it. How shall I know▪ cryes she, that you belong to that Lady, and that you came from her? The crafty Spark, perceiving what she design'd, and that she had no mind to return it; The Gown, said he, is of such a Colour, trim'd in such a manner, and was sent you in a Green Cloth, done about with a Silk Fringe. Savaria hearing him give such

particular Marks; Sweet-heart, said he to his Wife, You have nothing to reply, for since he demands it with so much earnestness, no que∣stion but his Mistress has occasion for it; and if you are unwilling to rise out of your place, give me the Key of your Trunk where it is, and I will fetch it. Rosina had not a Word more to say, but being ready to burst with Indigna∣tion, she arose from the Table, took the Gown out of the Trunk, and delivering it to Ruperio, Give my humble Service, said she, to Madam Leonara, and tell her, I ask her Pardon that I did not send it home sooner, which I could not do, because the Person for whom I borrowed it, was not here since.

The disguised Gallant received the Gown, and left Rosina with her Eyes all on Fire, and vext to the Soul to find herself so im∣pudently affronted. Savaria askt her upon what account she had borrowed it, who an∣swer'd, That it was at the Request of an Acquaintance of hers, who was desirous to have such another, as being extreamly ta∣ken with the Colour and Fashion of it. She persuaded her Husband to any thing, who, poor Man, understood little of the World, ••esides his Trading. In the mean time she was extreamly incensed against Ruperio, for ••he Ungenteel Trick he had put upon her, ••n depriving her of a Garment she was so ••leas'd with, and whereof she thought her

self Indisputably possest. She thereupon resolved to be Revenged on him, whatever it cost her; but thinking to Communicate her Design to her Maid who was her Confi∣dent in all her Intrigues, Trapassa her Fa∣ther over heard them, and came to the Knowledge of the whole Story; and being Acquainted with the Gallant, who was one that haunted Gaming Houses, he thought himself Obliged to Revenge the Affront done to his Daughter; and meeting him one Day in the Street, tells him he desired to measure the Length of his Sword, upon what account he should know when he came to the Place. Ruperio followed him, and being gone so far from the City, that they were out of the People's Sight, Trapassa ac∣quainted him with the Occasion of this Challenge. They presently drew, and made several Passes, but at length Trapassa proved the more unfortunate, for he was run tho∣rough the Heart, so that he Died immedi∣ately, not having time to make the least act of Contrition; a Judgment usually happen∣ing to those who lead such vicious Lives as he had done. Ruperio took Sanctuary in a Church, and Trapassa's Body was brought to his Son in Law, where it was received with a mixture of Joy and Sorrow; Joy that the House was deliver'd from the most Humour some and Insupportable Person in

the World, and Grief for the future charge ••f his Interment.

In the mean time Rosina made it appear ••y her Lamentations and Tears, that his death was as great an affliction to her, as ••t was pleasing to her Husband. She would ••eceive no Consolation, pretending she had ••ost all her support in this World; for all the Relations and Friends she had were now exchanged for a Husband whom she could not affect. On the other side, Sava∣ria thought himself one of the happiest Men in the World, to have a Wife hand∣some and young as his was; but she was really a little too handsome and too young for him; that proportion of Age, which Parents ought chiefly to mind in marrying ••heir Children, not being observed in this. ••t cannot be expected, that an old man ••hould be acceptable to a young Girl; and when a Woman comes once to slight her Husband, she is in the way to admit of a∣••y Body. But for Rosina, the ambition she ••lways had of going highly in Cloaths, and ••o be revenged of Ruperio, made her break ••orth into all Excesses that exasperated Wo∣man-kind can fall into; to defile her mar∣••iage Bed, and absolutely abandon her self ••o Act all those things from which she ho∣••ed to derive any satisfaction or advantage. ••othing so much disquieted her as the in∣jury

she had received from Ruperio, which she thought so great, that she would have died for sorrow, but out of a desire to be revenged of him. But in regard She must have assistance therein, She took all oppor∣tunities to assure her self of a Gallant who would Vigorously execute her Commands.

One of those Fridays, which are solem∣niz'd with a great concourse of People from Easter to Whitsuntide, in Triana, part of the Suburbs of Sevil, thro' which passes the Quadalquier, the most famous River in Andalusia. Rosina went into a Boat covered with Branches to go and see that Festival, to which she was carried by the express Order of her Husband, by a Neighbour of his whom he thought one of the most dis∣creet and Virtuous Women in the World; but he was not the first Man who has been deceived in a Woman; for on the contra∣ry. She was one of the most Wanton, and withal the most Silly of the whole Sex. She therefore took up a Boat for herself, Ro∣sina▪ and two Women more of their ac∣q••••••ntance; but though she had given the Waterman his full Fare; yet she was easily persuaded by him to take other Persons in∣to the Boat, and among them a Young Man who had his Spies at the water-side to give him notice of such an opportunity. They were no sooner come aboard, but Rosina

unvailed her Face, which the Gallant, whom we will call Pelician, had no sooner seen but he was surprized with her Beauty; and thought her so extream handsome that he persuaded some of his Friends who stood on the River side to come into the Boat, and to effect it greased the Waterman's Fist. Being all got in, Feli••••••n took his place next to Rosina, into whose favour it was his de∣sign to insinuate himself. He was Son to a Person of Quality, who had raised himself to a vast Fortune in the Indies, and had no Child but this; who disposing of his wealth as he pleased; it was forseen that it would not be long ere he scattered abroad what his Father had not in so short a time raked together. For he was a profuse Gamester, a perpetual Courter of Ladies, and main∣tained a Crew of Hangers on, who accom∣panied and encouraged him in his Debau∣ches. Besides these admirable Qualities, he was extreamly extravagant in point of Cloaths, a Vice common in Young Men at Sevil, who have all things at their own dis∣posal as he had.

Being seated near Rosina, and his Come∣rades next to her she-Friends, the Boat went leasurely down the River, for which the Waterman had consideration. Felician was resolved to lose no time, but declare his Love to Rosina, in such obliging Terms that

she gave intire Credit to what he said, and by her attention satisfied him that she was not displeased with his Company. Felician was a very ingenious Person, and of a com∣plaisant humour upon such occasions as ••hese, expressing himself with such a Grace and smartness, that the Ladies were exceed∣ingly pleased, especially Rosina, who thought nothing comparable to his Conversation▪ She told him her Name, the place where she Lived, what Profession her Husband was of; and in a word made him a kind of Con∣fession of her most secret Affairs. Felician was as free to her, concluding his discourse with a Thousand Protestations of service and obedience to her commands. The af¦ternoon passed away in Compliments and Courtship, to the great satisfaction of Rosi¦na, who had two designs to carry on at th•• same time; One to be reveng'd on Ruperio by the assistance of Felician, and the othe•• to wheedle out of him some Money toward•• new Cloaths and her other extravagant ex¦pences, and she succeeded in both her Pro¦jects.

From that day Felician began to fre¦quent the street where Rosina dwelt, espe¦cially when he had Intelligence that he•• Husband was abroad about his Concern•• Rosina on the other side resolved not t•• comply easily; for remembring how sh••

had been put upon by Ruperio, She was Jea∣••ous of having the same Game plaid over ••gain with her. Before she admitted him ••ntrance into the House, she resolved to make Tryal of his Liberality. Of this she was in a short time pretty well informed; for Felician having been Prodigal all his Life, he upon this occasion exceeded all he had done before, sending her Presents of Rich Cloaths, Jewels, and other Ornaments, besides the Expence he was at in Treats ••nd Collations when they met privately toge∣ther as they often did; so that Rosina was ••he most satisfied Woman in the World. Tis commonly said, that the more easily a Man attains his enjoyments the sooner he ••s surfeited with them; but it was other∣wise with Felician, whose affection to Rosina ••ncreased daily, and came to that heighth ••hat it could not well be greater.

It happened about this time, that Ruperio gained in one Night Six hundred Crowns ••t Play. He always went very fine; but this ••nexpected good Fortune made him ex∣••eed his former Gaudiness. But with that ••ood he fancied he had likewise ill Fortune, ••eing told that Felician was often seen in ••he Street where Rosina lived; from whence ••e infer'd, that he made some Addresses to ••er. This Jealousy began to revive the Love he formerly had for her, and he was

disturbed that he should have any Rival Hereupon he resolved if possible to recove•• her Favour, and requite the Injury he w•••• sensible he had done her. Upon this ac¦count he passed several times through th•• same street, which caused no little per¦plexity to Felician.

Rosina was enraged to see the Imposto•• had the Impudence to make any pretension to her favour after the notorious Sham h•• had put upon her. She consider'd ther•• was no other way to be rid of his impor¦tunities, but to engage her beloved Gallan•• Felician in her quarrel, by perswading hi•• that Ruperio's design was to break off th•• happy Correspondence, and Affection th•••• there was between them; So that if he ha•• any value for her Love, he ought to fin•• out some means to check the Insolence o•• his Rival, and free her from his Courtship which was odious to her. Observe her what dangerous service Women put the•••• Gallants upon, setting them on like Gam•• Cocks till they have destroyed one anothe••

Rosina thought it not prudence to a••¦quaint Felician with what had pass'd be¦tween her and Ruperio, but took a safe course, telling him that he was continuall•• soliciting her with very advantagious pro••¦fers, which yet for his sake she absolute•••• refused and slighted. Felician believed he••

the rather because he met him every day, ••nd sometimes in the night, walking the ••ounds about his Mistress house. To in∣••ense him the more, she added, that were it ••ot for that troublesome Person she would ••••e him oftner than she did. There needs ••o more to be said, Felician enflamed with ••pight, met Ruperio one Night in that ••••reet, when he knew Rosina was in Bed, ••nd her Husband looking over some ac∣••ounts which Concerned his Agency. Fe∣••••cian perceiving Ruperio called him by his ••ame, and having talked a while together ••o avoid being discovered by making any ••uarrel in the streets, they retired into a ••••ttle Ally which happened to be near the ••indow of the room where Savaria kept all ••is Papers, and was then very busy in pe∣••using them; Being come thither, Felician ••hus discourses the other.

Signior Ruperio, I have for some days pass'd ••bserved that you have frequented this street ••ore than you ought to have done, and I was ••••mewhat at a loss to Know what might occasion ••our coming hither, in regard there are several ••ne Ladies which might incline you thereto; But I have at last discovered that Madam Ro∣••••na only is the cause of your daily and nightly Haunts hereabouts; and this I am assured of by ••y own Eyes, as well as the relation of her Ser∣••ants, whom you endeavour to corrupt by pre∣sents

to bring you into their Lady's Favour. •• have been her Servant for some time, and th•• Services I have done her have gained me her af¦fection; So that I have received the greates•• kindness from her which I could expect, or sh•• could give. I do not usually boast of my goo•• Fortune in such Cases; but to pr••vent your far¦ther Progress in this matter I am compelled t•• make you this particular discovery; which •• doubt not but you will conceal as a great secre•• as a Person of Honour ought to do. I have ac∣quainted you with my Love, and the advantag•• I have made of it to oblige you to forbear all ap¦plications to this Lady for the future; whereby you will secure your self from many inconvenien¦cies, and free me from the Resentments which a•• present Affect me.

Ruperio hearkned attentively to the dis¦course of Felician, and Rosina's Husband n•• less, hearing accidently such things as s•• nearly concerned him, which though the•• were extreamly prejudicial to him and hi•• Reputation, yet he was resolved to stay and here what Answer Ruperio would make which was to this effect.

Signior Felician, I do not at all wonder tha•• you should be so Solicitous in observing the devo¦tion I had for Madam Rosina, since your are s•• much concerned in it as you affirm to me, and suppose you will be as little surprized at my be¦ing Embarked in the same design, since I fin••

you are ignorant of the grounds of my Love and ••he Reason I have to prosecute it, I am as un∣willing as you to proclaim the Favours I receive from Ladies, but since you unbosome your self to me, I conceive I am obliged to do the like to you, that you may think my proceeding the less strange; I was in the Lady's favour before you, and obtain'd the same thing of her that you so much glory in; By some misfortune or other I have lost it; yet not so, but that I hope in time to Reinstate my self into it again; which to ac∣complish assure your self I shall do all that lyes in my power. If I prevail, and that she will ad∣mit the continuance of my service, as I have hopes she may, your only remedy is Patience; for I am so far from quitting my pretensions to her, that I shall do my utmost to prevent her gi∣ving entertainment to yours, and reduce her to such a pass, as not so much as to remember that ever you thought of her.

With that they both drew, Felician maintaining that he only ought to pretend to her, and Ruperio standing upon the same Terms. The dispute was soon ended, his Sword who was in present possession, was the most fortunate, Ruperio by a mortal wound falling dead upon the place. The noise of their Swords was not very great, for Felician had done his work so sudden∣ly that none heard any thing of the quarrel but only Savaria, who for his own repu∣tation

would have kept it secret. That the body might not be found in that place, Fe∣lician took it on his shoulders, and laid it at the Gate of a Monastry, and took refuge in another, till he heard how matters would go.

Savaria confounded at what he had seen and heard, was so enraged against his Wife that he began to contrive how to be Re∣veng'd of a Woman, whose perfidiousness was the more Notorious, because of the great reason she had to be Grateful and Loyal. She was fast asleep in bed, never dreaming what had happened in the street upon her account. The first thing that came into Savaria's thoughts was to go up instantly and dispatch her in bed with a dag∣ger; but he then considered that the mur∣therer having carried away the dead Bo∣dy from his door, he might be charg'd with Killing her without any cause, and that he should want proof, as having for Witnesses only two Servant Maids, who were more likely to swear against him. He therefore resolved as the surest way, to rid himself of her by a secret Dose of Poyson which might remove her after a certain time; but then he thought he should not satisfy his own just Resentments if he any longer delay'd that vengeance which requi∣red immediate execution. He then pro∣posed

to himself another Expedient, which was to leave both the City and his Wife, and to retire to some other place, but this design was soon over, he having many Af∣fairs undetermined; and fearing the Sinister opinions which might have been made up∣on such a Resolution, to the Scandal and Shame of a man of his Age and reputation.

This Reflection brought him to his first design of sending her going with the Pon∣yard. But before he perpetrated that cru∣elty, which yet according to Spanish Justice, was no Crime, but a just punishment for her Lewdness, he judged it necessary for his own Vindication, to leave in Wri∣ting the reasons that induced him to com∣mit this Fact. He took Pen and Paper and began to set down the affront he had re∣ceived from his Wife, and the satisfaction he had taken; but upon reading it, imagining he had not sufficiently exposed the heinousness of her Fault, he tore what he had written and this he did to the third time, so great was the disturbance and confusion of his thoughts. He set him∣self down to Write the Fourth time, but upon second thoughts was of opinion that he should be sufficiently aveng'd if he had but once sent his Wife out of the World. A great part of the night wasted in these disquiets, namely in Writing, Correcting,

and Tearing all he had Written. At length being absolutely resolved in that fan∣cy to prosecute his design, he made another Writing without any blot, having before well considered what he should set down; and when he had exprest in the best manner he could, the irreparable injury he had re∣ceived, he was suddenly seiz'd with so pres∣sing a grief that he fell down and expired.

All this pass'd while Rosina slept. Awa∣king of a sudden and not finding her Hus∣band in bed with her, She called him, but hearing no answer, she slipt on her Gown and went into his Closet, where she found a Candle lighted, and Savaria lying on the Floor dead. She was astonisht, as well she might; all she could do was to call up her Maids, who immediately came to the Sight of this strange Spectacle; they were no less surpriz'd than their Mistress at the strangeness of this Accident. As they were going to convey the Corps to one of the best Rooms in the House, before the neigh∣bours had any notice of the adventure, Rosina found a written Paper which seem'd not to be quite finish'd, wherein she found these words.

That my Justification may be the bet∣ter known to all those who shall read this Paper, I declare that all my unhappiness proceeds from the Lightness and Incon∣stancy

of my infamous Wife, who pro∣faning the holy Sacrament of Marriage, by the Sacred Bond whereof we were joined together in the Face of the Church, without any consideration of the true Love and affection I had for her, hath prostituted her self to two Gallants at the same time, who having quarrel'd for the precedency which either of them pre∣tended to have over his Adversary, the more unfortunate was killed by the other before the Window of my House. Ha∣ving thus been witness of my own dis∣grace, and heard the whole Story of my dishonour, it was but just I should re∣venge my disgrace, thus

— Here ended the writing, for death seizing him at that word he instantly gave up the Ghost.

Rosina was ev'n distracted with what she Saw and Read; So that for some time she was deprived of her Senses, upon reflec∣ting that generally the greatest secrets of Debauchery are discovered at last, either by Reformation or Punishment of the Act∣ors. The Death of her Husband afflicted her both with fear and grief; Fear to con∣sider how suddenly he died, occasioned by the wrong she had done him; Grief, to see her Husband deprived of Life, and her self ignorant how to represent so unhappy an Accident. A little Remorse of mind, like

a qualm over her Stomach, troubled her that she had been so perfidious to a man who had loved her so well, and by mar∣riage had raised her from beggery to plenty. The great kindness which the neighbours were sensible he always had for her, gave her a little Relief, and induced her to take the Advice of one of her Maids; which was to carry her Husband's body into his bed, and to cry out the next morning so loud that they might hear her; whom by her exces∣sive Lamentations she might persuade that she found him dead by her side when she wa∣ked in the morning; and that her two Maids to carry on the Cheat, should give out, that their Master was subject to an A∣poplexy, and died suddenly thereof.

Having thus concerted their design, day came, Rosina cried out, and lamented with all her might; the next Neighbours coming in found her undressed, weeping, and tea∣ring her hair like one absolutely deprived of her Wits for the loss of so tender an Husband. Her two Maids acted their parts to the Life; relating the cause of their good Master's death. All were satisfied with these reasons, and some of Rosina's ac∣quaintance Were very busy about her for fear 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should have swooned, so perfectly did she personate a disconsolate Widow. They use their utmost endeavours to comfort her,

and allay her Sorrow, who amidst all her ••rouble took care to burn the Paper she had ••ound, lest it might have proved an Evi∣••ence of her disloyalty.

Some Officers sent by the Magistrates ••ame soon after to her House, who are ne∣••er wanting upon such occasions, and upon ••he Allegations of the Neighbours, that the Deceased had ever lived very Lovingly with his Wife, went away, being satisfied that she not any way contributed to his death. Savaria was buried, and Rosina found ••t so difficult to act the part she was enga∣ged in, that she did not think of taking care ••bout that which Widows are commonly very sollicitous about at such times, that is to make the best provision they can for themselves out of what their Husbands have left behind them. So that one of his Ne∣phews, as soon as the Uncle was buried, seiz'd on all that was in the House, and Ro∣sina was forced to go to Law with him to re∣cover what she might lawfully lay claim to.

Let us return to see what became of Ru∣perio's Body. Being found in the morning by the Monks of that Monastry, and not known by any of them, they designed to bury it without Ceremony, had they not been prevented by a Citizen, who advised them to expose it in some publick pla••e that it might be owned, and that if the Per∣son

had any Relations, they might know the misfortune that had happened to him and by this means they would secure to themselves the charge of his Interment and the Fees for other Prayers and Devo∣tions, in order to the repose of his Soul▪ This Advice pleased the Superiour of the Convent, who immediately acquainted the Magistrate, that they had found in the mor∣ning a Young Man dead at their Church door. The Body was laid in a little place nigh the Monastry, with two lighted wax Candles; and soon after a Man passed by who knew Ruperio, He told them what he was, and then went and carried the sad news to his Friends, who were extreamly greived at his death, his Father having often fore∣told, him that he would come to such an end; for, from the Life he led, nothing less could be expected. He was buried in the Cloyster, and strict search made for the murtherer; but Sevil being a vast and po∣pulous City, no discovery could be made of him, only Rosina knew who it was by the absence of her Gallant, by Ruperio's death, and by the Paper she found in her Husband's Closet; and was extreamly pleased to see her self Revenged of a Person who had put such an unhandsome Trick upon her; and it was her good fortune that no notice was taken of the blood of the deceased in the

place where he was killed; had the Ma∣gistrate known of that, it might have ••rought her into some trouble, for the Neighbours could have testifi'd that they ••ad often seen these two Rivals in that ••treet.

Rosina is now become a Widow, but with∣••l poor and destitute of all accommoda∣••ions, having only the stock of her beauty ••eft to set her up again; and that toge∣••her with her honour, if it may be said she ••ad any remaining, She resolved to prosti∣••ute, thereby to live in some measure suita∣••le to what she had done before. Savaria's Nephew, who had taken possession of his Es∣••ate, was obliged to pay something upon ••he account of her Dower, but it was so ••nconsiderable, compared to the Port she was wont to bear, that she was forced to ••eave her house, and take one of a lower Rent; Nor had this Nephew what he ex∣••ected by being Heir to his Uncle, for his ••state was extreamly intangled, so that af∣••er paying the Creditors, he had little left ••or himself.

Rosina removed to another Quarter of the ••ity, and being rich in Cloaths, and really ••andsome, did not as many other Widows ••ommonly do, who as soon as their Hus∣••ands are marched off, dress themselves as ••ne as hands can make them, and take all

Opportunities to shew themselves to Gentle∣men, out of a design to get other Husbands. But she though young had gained such great Experience, that she resolved to play ano∣ther Game, and that no small one.

There was come in the Fleet from Peru in the West-Indies, a Person born among the mountains of Leon, who began his fortune in the Station of a Servant to a Merchant at Sevil, and upon his Master's Credit and some little Trading into the Indies, was grown very Rich, and in a few years was reckoned one of the ablest Merchants that Traded at Peru. He at length made a Voy∣age thither, being advanced to a certain em∣ployment, and having thereby much in∣creased his Wealth he returned again to Sevil in that years Fleet, where he Sold the Cargo he had brought home at Cent per Cent profit, so fortunate was he in all his Adventures.

Marquina was his Name, a Person about 50 years Old, the most covetous Miser li∣ving, grudging himself his Victuals and Cloaths although mean enough, nay Fasted many times to save his Money. He kept no more Servants than he had occasion for, namely a Factor, a Lacquey, and a Moor-Slave who lookt to his Mule, and a Maid to dress his pitiful Victuals. He kept his Fa∣mily so short of provisions that people won∣dred

any would serve him; His wretched Humour was the discourse of the whole Ci∣••y; which another would have been asha∣med of, but he only laughed at it, applau∣••ing himself, and making it his whole busi∣••ess to heap up wealth, whereof he had a∣••undance.

Rosina having this account of him, began ••o consider all the circumstances, and ha∣••ing reflected thereon, concluded that he might be made an excellent Cully, whom if ••er Beauty could smite, as she hop'd and ••xpected it might, her Condition would be ••etter than ever it had been. Marquina ••welt without the City in a little Tenement ••e had got of one who owed him some mo∣••ey, which he knew not well how to get in ••therwise; for he was naturally so great a ••ave to his profit that he little minded his ••leasures; so that this little neat house ••••me to him at an easy Rate and in satis∣••action for his Debt, and stood near St. Ber∣••ard's Monastry in the midst of a pleasant ••alley. He retired hither out of the City ••or Cheapness, but had so fortified it that ••e made it as strong as a Goal; insomuch ••hat no thieves either by night or day could make any breach into it; all the doors were of an extraordinary thickness; the windows were secur'd with Iron Bars and ••rates, and the Walls very high and strong.

Within he secured it with Fire Arms, which he always kept Charged, Halberts and Partisans being likewise placed near the Gates. He was obliged to take one Person more into his Retinue, that is a Fellow to order his Garden, and to make the best ad∣vantage of it he could, a married Man, who should carry the Herbs and Fruits to Mar∣ket to Sell; Such improvement did his Co∣vetousness make of all things. His Trea∣sure was disposed into a certain secret place behind his bed, where he himself lay, in strong Iron Chests; and every night be∣fore he slept, like an over-busy Constable, he made strict search in all the rooms of the House. Thus did this wretched Fellow live, though he had no Children to succeed him, for he had not been married, nor never intended it, though very advantageous Mat∣ches were dayly proffered him.

Rosina had a design to bring this Cove∣tous Merchant into a noose, and to effect i•• she communicated the project to a Person who was a great proficient in such Affairs, and an antient acquaintance of her Father's Sig∣nior Trapassa. This man had acted some Cheats at Madrid, which occasioned him to remove to Cadiz, where his ill practices caus∣ed his departure from thence to Sevil, where he went lurking up and down, and spen¦ding some Money which cost him more ha¦zard

than pains to get. He was one of the most accomplisht Persons in point of Thei∣ving of any of his time, but very fearful of falling into the hands of Justice, least some of his former Offences should rise up in Judgment against him: which were such as had prefer'd him to the Gallies, where he had made an acquaintance with Trapas∣sa, and continued it at Sevil. This Man whose name was Garray, Rosina took to as∣sist her in compassing her intrigues. Ha∣ving instructed him in what he had to do, She told him that Marquina did not usual∣ly return home to his House till about Sun∣set; and so both of them contrived to pass by his Garden, he on a Mule and she on a good Horse; having put off her mourning and put on another Dress with a Hat and Feather, as the Sevil Ladies are used to be e∣quipt, when they are in the Country.

They passed by the Garden just as the Gardner was opening the door. Garay co∣ming up to him,

Friend, said he, here is a Lady would not willingly go into the City to Day, if you will afford her entertainment this night I will satisfy you according to your desire, besides that, you will do us an extraordinary kindness, for you will thereby prevent a great misfortune which we cannot otherwise avoid.

The Gardner, who was afraid of his Mas∣ter's displeasure, told him he durst not be

so bold as to receive any Person into his House without his knowledge, though he had not expresly forbidden him the doing of any such thing. But Garay, who knew the value and power of money, took some out of his pocket, with which Rosina had furnisht him, and offering it to the Gard∣ner, Here Friend, said he, take this in ear∣nest of more. The Gardner's Wife long∣ing to know what business they might have with her Husband, comes up to him, and seeing the proffers were made him, under∣took to Lodge the Gentlewoman in her own Room, assuring her Husband their Master should never know it, in regard their Rooms were at some distance from his. Briefly, the Wives argument prevailed, so that the Gardner was content the Lady should lodge secretly that night in his house upon the Receipt of Six Rials, which Gar∣ay gave him as an earnest of a greater Sum. He therefore took Rosina off her Horse, and brought her into the Garden, where she took leave of Garay, who had already re∣ceived the Orders, whereof we shall give an account hereafter.

Being come into the Gardner's Room she took off what covered her face; and astonished the Gardner and his wife, at the Sight of her beauty, though she seemed to be very melancholly, as if some great mis∣fortune

had befallen her, namely, that which she had got by heart, and designed to relate to Marquina, in case she should come to the speech of him. The Sun was hardly set when he came into the Garden, the Negro entring a while before to open the door, which he himself lock'd on the inside, and carried the Key with him. He chanc'd to be that night a little more wea∣ry than ordinary, which occasioned his go∣ing to bed betimes, after he had eaten some of his Garden Fruits, with a piece of Bread, and wash'd them down with a glass of spring water. He only visited that Part of the House where he lodged himself, and came not to the Gardner's, which com∣monly escaped not his privy search when he thought of it. His Family, which kept more Fasting-days than ever the Church appointed, Supp'd that night very soberly in imitation of their Master.

Marquina got up in the Morning be∣times, and gave his slave Money to go to Market, while he went about his affairs in the City, with order to get Dinner ready a∣gainst his return. Rosina was at a loss how to compass her design, things not happe∣ning according to her expectation; but still waiting for an opportunity, She told her Entertainess that she was extreamly troub∣led at her Uncle's stay, as she called Garay, and

that her melancholly was upon that account, though the Gardner's wife, who was a good hearty Woman, found her all the diversion she could.

Marquina came home at noon, intending to dine in his Garden; but before he sat down, he would needs take a turn about it, to see if any thing were amiss, and obser∣ving some Knots that wanted boards to keep them in order, he went to the Gard∣ner's to see if he could find any fit for his purpose. The Gardner's wife perceiving him coming, in all haste thrust Rosina into a little back Room, where she her self was wont to lye; yet could not do it so sud∣denly, but that Marquina coming in, heard the Ruffling of the Silk, and saw the sha∣dow of Rosina. He steps into the Room where she was, and led her out by the hand; Coming into the light, he was surprized at her handsomeness. The Gardner's Wife wondred that her Master instead of chiding her, as she expected, only ask'd her who the Lady was; she replyed, that the Night before passing by her door, with an antient Gentleman, who seemed as sorrowful as her self, they had very earnestly intreated she might Lodge there but that night, to a∣void a great misfortune that would have happened to them, if they had gone any further.

While the Gardner's Wife was giving Marquina this account, he very Attentive∣••y considered the strange Lady▪ who seem'd to be extreamly troubled in mind, which added to the Attractions of her Beauty.

Marquina was so enchanted therewith, that discarding his unsociable and covetous humour, he told the Gardner's Wife, that she had done well in entertaining the Lady, though without his Orders, which in such a case were not to be observed, where Compassion and Charity plead for the re∣lief of those that are in Trouble;

This Lady, said he, deserves a better Reception than she found in your poor Lodgings, I hearti∣ly proffer her the use of my House, if she will honour it with her presence.

Rosina return'd many thanks for his Civility, and intreat∣ed him to allow her the privacy of some other Lodging, for the little time she had to stay there; in regard she expected an Uncle of hers, to come and fetch her a∣way that night.

Marquina, who began to be inflamed, was sorry to hear, that her stay would be so Short; Yet, told her that though it were but for an hour, she would extream∣ly oblige him in accepting the offer he made her, with so much real affection. She who expected this Event all the while

answered, that to make some returns fo•• such great obligations, she was ready t•• wait on him.

Hereupon she went to Marquina's A¦partment, whither he led her by the hand•• to the great satisfaction of the Gardner'•• Wife, who admired to see her Master, s•• contrary to his Nature, in such a pleasan•• complaisant humour. As she pass'd through the Rooms, she took particular notice o•• all things; for though Marquina was of •• very covetous temper, yet he seemed pro¦digal in the Furniture of his House, whic•• was adorned with very rich Tapestry Chairs Suitable thereto, Cabinets of Ivory and Ebony, and many other Raritie•• brought from the West-Indies, which though they cost not much there, yet are highly valued in Europe. He instantly command¦ed his Slave to prepare a sumptuous Din¦ner, an employment he undertook with great chearfulness, as knowing he should fare well by this extraordinary Liberality of his Master. Rosina Dined with him, wh•• Treated her all the while with the bes•• the Table afforded, making many excu¦ses that he had no better for her.

After Dinner he conducted her into a Room, beautified with a great number o•• Curious Pictures, and a noble Bed of em¦broidered Velvet, intreated her to repos••

herself thereon, according to the Spanish Custom after they have Dined, by reason of the heat of the Country. He likewise intreated her to give some remission to her Grief, since she might be assured, that she should be as safe in his House as in any Sanctuary, and that she should want nothing which was in his power. She again retur∣ned her most affectionate thanks, and com∣plying with his desire, stayed alone in the Room where Marquina slept every day. He went into another, where he laid himself down, much disquieted, as being fallen deeply in love with his fair Guest, ••ontriving how he might induce her to grant his desire, which if he could effect, ••e thought he should be the happiest Man ••n the World. Before he acquainted her with his design, he was desirous to know ••he cause of her discomposure, and what might occasion her stopping at his Garden, ••hat he might thereby discover whether ••here were any obstructions that might ••inder the accomplishment thereof. He waited till she was awake; who slept not at ••ll, but lay considering what answer she ••••ould make when he came to question her.

Marquina thinking it was now time to ••peak to her, in order to the satisfaction ••f his Curiosity, goes into her Chamber, ••elling her it was a cloudy day, and he

was afraid she might have over-slept her∣self, humbly asking pardon for presuming to come into her Apartment. She made him many acknowledgements for the Ten∣derness he shewed for her health, assuring him, that she could have no Refreshment, the trouble she was in not permitting her to take any rest. He intreated her no longer to conceal the cause of her disqui∣et, and renewed the offers he had made to serve her to the utmost of his ability. Ha∣ving returned him thanks, and thinking it was now time to make some progress in her Plot, she gave him the following Re∣lation of her Adventures.

Granada, One of the most Famous and E∣minent Cities in Spain is the place of my Birth. My Parents, whom it is not material to name, are of the most Antient and Noble Families in all the Mountains of old Castile, and the whole Issue of their Matrimony, was only a Brother of mine and my self. My Brother spent the youthful part of his Life in Courting of Ladies, and among other young Persons like himself, plaid some lewd Pranks, which obli∣ged him, for fear of falling into the hands of Justice, to absent himself from Granada. As for my Part, I made it my business, to serve and honour those who had brought me into the World. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 employed the day at my Needle, not taking example from my Companions, who only mind∣ed

their Divertisements. Nay, I was so ig∣••••rant of what Love meant, that I laugh'd at ••hatever related thereto, and thought those that ••asted their time in Courtships, and entertai∣••••ng those they called their Gallants, little bet∣••••r than so many Distracted Persons. But Love 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seems would punish this Contempt of mine, ••nd you shall hear in what manner.

My Father and Mother being one day go∣••••g to visit a Friend of theirs in the Country, ••ho had Buried his Wife not long before, I heard 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the street the clashing of Swords, as if some ••entlemen were a Fighting; I looked out of ••••e Window to see what was the matter; I had ••ver been guilty of such a Curiosity before, ••••d it was my unhappiness that I did not avoid 〈◊〉〈◊〉 then; for I should not now be relating my ••isfortunes, which are such that I never re∣••ember them without Tears. I there saw to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sorrow, three Men with their Swords drawn ••••ghting against one, who defended himself ••••th so much Courage, that he not only made ••s Party good a long time against so many E∣••••mies, but also wounded two of them in the ••••ad, he himself having received only a ••••ght hurt. These three Bullies finding them∣••••••ves so warmly attackt by one Person, resol∣••••d to do their utmost to dispatch him; So ••••at exasperated by their Wounds and the dis∣••••ace, they press'd him so hard that he was for∣••••d to retreat into one of our Gates, where

they gave him two several thrusts into the Breast; upon which he fell, and was left for dead. Moved with Compassion to see such a gallant young Man so disadvantagiously as∣saulted, I came down to the Gate, calling my Maids about me to see what might be done for his relief, our House being in an obscure street, and very few appearing at the noise we made, and those unarmed, so that they were unable to part them. We brought the young Man in, lockt the doors, and a Surgeon was instantly called▪ His wounds were so desperate, that we thought best to put him to Bed in a ground Room where my Brother used to lye.

The young Man thanked me very Civilly for this Favour, but alas! that good Office begun in Compassion, ended in Love. The Surgeon viewed his wounds, but could not at present give any certain Judgment of them, though he whis∣pered me in the ear that he judged them mor∣tal. This word struck me to the heart, for having seen him fight so Valiantly, I must needs acknowledge that I had an inclination for him; but his kind expressions afterwards, his gentele manner of acknowledging my Kindness, and the obligations I had laid upon him, raised it into a perfect Love. My Father and Mo∣ther returned from their Visit, and before they came home, were told by one of their Neigh∣bours what had happened to a Person of Quali∣ty in their absence, and that I put a period to

the Quarrel he had with three Bravo's, by re∣ceiving the wounded Party into their House out of Charity, to prevent his being murthered by his Enemies. When they saw the young Gen∣tleman they commended the charitable office I had done in such an extremity, they being Persons who embraced all opportunities to exercise their kindness to the distressed. They bid the young Man take heart, assuring him he should want nothing the House could afford. Ʋpon which I spent most of my time in waiting on him who was afterward the cause of all the Troubles and Afflictions that now lie so heavy upon me. At the second Dressing the Surgeon assured me his wounds were not dangerous, whic•• 〈…〉〈…〉 much joy in our 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but to me in par••••cu∣lar, who became every day more passio••••tely in Love with him. As often as I could get out of my Father's Sight, I went to pass away the time in his Chamber, for which favour he made me extraordinary acknowledgments.

This young Cavalier was Born at Pampalo∣na, and one of the most eminent persons in the City. His business at Granada was to prose∣cute a Law Suit against a very powerful Person, who finding little Justice on his side in a cause of great importance, and tho he made Interest in Court, the Judges must pass sentence against him, would put a period to the Suit the s••¦rest way, and rid himself of his Adversary, by employing three of his own Menial Servants to

Murder him. It was a month before Leonar∣do(so was the wounded Man called,) got out of his bed, having all that time been attended by me with the greatest Tenderness and Care. The second day after his getting up, he had the opportunity to discourse with me; for my Mo∣ther was gone abroad upon a Visit, wherein I did not accompany her, having more mind to stay at home with my young Gallant. He dis∣covered his Sentiments to me so warmly, and gave me such assurances of his affection, that it raised no less Love in me towards him; inso∣much that there pass'd mutual promises of Fide∣lity between us. All this while I knew nothing 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••her's being then upon a Treaty of Marriage between me and a Gentleman of Granado, who was exceeding desirous t•• ••••ter into our Alliance, while I was very well satis∣fied with the Choice I my self had made. Leonardo coming to hear the Pretensions the other made to me, was not a little Concerned, but the only remedy was patience, in regard he would make no discovery of his Estate, till the Law-Suit was ended, which he hoped would shortly be, and I in the mean time endeavoured to persuade my Father not to be over-hasty in concluding my Marriage with the Granadine.

Leonardo being perfectly cured, and requi∣ting the kindness, and handsome entertainment he had received at our House, with many con∣siderable Presents, returned to his own Quar∣ters,

to bring the business to a final end. For my part, my troubles increased more upon me, for my Father never giving me any notice of it, as if I had been a Person not at all concerned, concluded the contract with the Granadine, and gave him his word he should marry me; when I came to understand it, I was so distur∣bed in my mind, that I regarded nothing I was about; this new Servant of mine, who expected e're long to be my Master, came to give me a Visit, but was soon satisfied that he had recko∣ned without his Hostess: for having flattered himself into a foolish imagination that he should have found the Kindest Reception in the world fr•••• me, he met with such a Repulse, that he concluded it must rather proceed from an A∣version, than any indifference I had for him. A••d knowing the wounded Leonardo had some time lodged in our House, he presumed my dis∣dain of him, poroceeded from the Love I had for that Gentleman. The Jealousy which he con∣ceived upon this presumption, induced him to make Trial of all the ways he could imagine to be assured of it, so that he might not do anything whereof he should afterwards repent; Which if all hot spirits would consider, it might prevent many groundless Quarrels. I was in an ex∣traordinary perplexity during these Transacti∣ons. I acquainted Leonardo with my Con∣dition, who came to see me that night, and at e••gth we agreed that I should leave my Father's

House the night following, and go to some of his Relations, where we might be secretly mar∣ried.

The expected hour being come, Ʋnhappy hour to me, considering the many misfortunes I have suffered since; as my Dearest and I were going out of the House, and crossing another street, we met my Jealous Servant, who had spent some nights to discover what he now found too true. He presently knew us, and being attended by his Servants, fell upon Leonardo, never think∣ing of any such surprise. So that before he had time to draw his Sword, he received three mor∣tal wounds, and fell down dead, without spea∣king a Word. The noise the Murtherers made, occasioned the Neighbours to come out with their Lights, upon the appearance where∣of they retired to prevent being discovered. By this time there was a great stir at my Father's, for my being missed; while I was in a manner dead to see my Love lying breathless at my Feet. Being a little recovered, I thought it not convenient to stay in the street after such an Accident, so I went in all haste, to a Friend's House of my Father's, an aged Person, and ve∣ry poor, to whom I related what had befallen me, and how much it concerned me not to stay any longer at Granada; whereupon getting a Horse, he mounted me thereon, and brought me to the next Village, where he got another, and came from thence hither to avoid the fury of

my Father, who accompanied by Officers, makes a search after me, as I have understood by the way. For that reason I thought it not safe for us to go into Sevil as soon as we came hither, but that I had better conceal my self in some place near it. It was the pleasure of Fortune to direct me to this Habitation of yours, into which upon my extraordinary Intreaties, your Gard∣ner ventured to receive me this last night. Thus, Sir, you have the story of a wretched Maid, if there ever was any; whose only Com∣fort now is in the kind entertainment you are pleased to afford me, and I doubt not but your Charity will be requited, since there can be none more greater than to Relieve such as are Afflic∣ted, and persecuted in that deplorable manner as I am.

This Romantick dismal Tale which Ro∣sina had invented, and got by heart, was concluded with a shower of Crocodile Tears, which raised such Compassion in Marqui∣na, that he himself could not forbear wee∣ping. The Subtile Cheat perceiving that he gave Credit to her Feigned Story, and that Love began to enter at the breach, which compassion had made in his heart, was encouraged to prosecute her design, which she now seemed almost confident to bring to effect. They continued some time together, she Sobbing and Crying as if it had been for a Wager, and he using

his utmost endeavours to comfort her; which yet came not up to the height of proposing a Remedy, as she could have wish'd, for he had not yet abandoned his covetous humour.

Having with much niceness, and atten∣tion, considered the great beauty of Rosina, with her Afflictions and strange Adven∣tures, he concluded that this happiness was as it were fallen into his mouth, as a sig∣nal addition to his former prosperity. This was the first time that ever Love attackt Marquina's heart, and therefore acted more violently; Is Marquina fallen in Love? He must needs then be Liberal. Hath he entertained Rosina into his House? That kindness will be the dearest to him that e∣ver he had. O Love, what dispositions dost thou not change, and what heart is so hard, that it is not in thy power to sof∣ten? Love hath changed the temper of this insatiable Miser, who had cast off all sense of humanity to his nearest Relations, into a Liberal and magnificent Lover. He is extreamly smitten with Rosina, he is passionately in Love with her; and she will e're long be Mistress of his Heart and Wealth too. She related many improba∣ble things in her story, which might have betrayed her, had not the affection where∣with Marquina harkned to her closed both

his Eyes and Ears; nay he was so bewitch∣ed by this Passion, that he would have be∣lieved more unlikely things than these.

The effect of this doleful Narration of Rosina was, that Marquina assured her of all the favour and affection she could expect from him, even his Estate, Life, Heart, and Soul, making her the absolute Mis∣tress of all he was possest of; Intreating her to forget her misfortunes, and to be confident that she was in an House where she might command, and all her Orders should be strictly obeyed, as far as it was in his power. Rosina returned him many thanks for his generous Offers, concluding her Compliments with a fresh shower of Tears; which she had at command when ever she pleased or stood in need of them.

With these Artifices, she became Mist∣ress of Marquina, and all he had, so that she might dispose of him and it as she pleased. Her Beauty had wounded him, and he was mighty desirous to Try whe∣ther she would be as willing to Cure him. But he cannot contrive how to acquaint her with his malady. He resolved at last that if he could not prevail upon her by Submissions and Presents, he would use the last Remedy, which was to marry her. This is a Bait that many times catches the most Subtle of that Sex; but he that uses

it has cause most commonly to repent. Ro-Rosina had no other design than to examine the Chests of the greedy Merchant, and would be no way engaged till she was se∣cure of the Prize; for the rascally Trick Ruperio had play'd her, made her extream distrustful.

Marquina staid all that day in his Gar∣den, and neglected his business in the Ci∣ty; but next Morning, leaving his Lady asleep, he takes his Mule, and goes about his ordinary occasions, having charged the Gardner's Wife to provide a good Break∣fast for his Mistress as soon as she was a∣wake, and to have a care of the House. He lock'd the Chamber door where his Money was, and as he went out command∣ed the Gardner not to suffer any one to come into his Garden, but the old Man that brought Theodora thither, for that was the name the hypocritical Rosina had given her self.

He then went away attended by a little Negro, to whom he gave Money to buy provision for dinner. Rosina got up, and the Gardner's Wife punctually perform'd the Orders she had received from her Mas∣ter, Treating her the best she could, that so all the Servants might be partakers of this magnificence. Rosina comes down into the Garden, where she took occasion to

commend the Walks and Contrivances of it, for the Gardner kept it in good Or∣der, and well furnished with Herbs, Fruits, and Flowers.

Finding the Sun beginning to grow hot, she went into the House, where meeting with a Lute on which Marquina's Factor was wont to play. She put it in Tune, and made that her Entertainment, till Marqui∣na return'd from the City, who hearing her playing on it, was wonderfully plea∣sed to find one perfection in her more than he knew before. She perceiving that Mar∣quina hearkned to her Musick, joined her Voice to the Instrument to enchant him more if possible than he was already. She sung so sweetly that Marquina was ravished at the Musick, so that he made her this high Complement, that he could not ima∣gine it to be the voice of any mortal Crea∣ture, but rather that of an Angel descen∣ded from above; and coming towards her Transported with Joy, How, says he, hath my poor Habitation been honoured by your Retirement into it, most adorable Theodora? What happiness hath your arri∣val blest me with, who never knew any be∣fore? What Felicity have I received in beholding your Transoendent Beauty, and to observe in you a thousand unknown ex∣cellencies,

which I could not discover a first sight.

You press too hard upon me, Dear Sir, replies the counterfeit Theodora, and put me to the blush with your excessive Prai∣ses; I am not such a Stranger to my self, but that I must account it Flattery, to be∣stow such extraordinary Commendations on a Person that deserves so little; Had I mistrusted you had heard me I would have defer'd my diversion to another time, since probably my voice may seem untunable to you compar'd to the excellent Songsters in this City; unless generous natures have an inclination to favour Persons of mean performances, and persuade them their ac∣complishments exceed what indeed they are. No more compliments I beseech you, dear Lady, says Marquina, now raised up to the highest pitch of besotted Love; My expressions proceed from my heart, and I can assure you, Madam, that though I have heard celebrated Voices in Sevil, yet yours is beyond any of them.

Your most humble Servant, says Rosina, the honour you are pleased to allow me, makes me heartily wish that my poor abi∣lities might find you some further diver∣sion with this Instrument, since you ac∣knowledge your self so much satisfied there∣with; But my Troubles are so great and

Pressing that I only minded my own case in what I did. I must see your Sorrows at an end, replies Marquina, before you leave this House, Let me intreat you therefore, sweet Lady, if you cannot absolutely free your mind from Ruminating upon your Afflicti∣ons, yet to condescend to a short Cessati∣on of them. This renewing of your kind∣ness, says she, must needs extreamly oblige me, and consequently force me to a grate∣ful compliance with your Commands, as far as lies in my power; but I cannot pro∣mise it you so fully as you wish; because that the Person that brought me hither, seems to have forgot that he was to return and fetch me away; otherwise he would have found some means to have given me a Visit once in three days. Let not that create you any trouble, replies the gene∣rous Merchant, but rather imagine there may be some just cause for his neglect; I am somewhat apprehensive, says she, that he may be returned to Granada, for fear least being miss'd, he should be questioned as accessary to my escape; and this would prove the greatest of all my Misfortunes, for if he be gone, he hath carried all I had along with him. Never fear that, cryes Marquina, for he must have more Com∣passion than to forsake you in so great an extremity; but though he and all others

fail you, assure your self I shall not, and I implore you to believe this my sincere pro∣testations, that I am so passionately your Servant, that I cannot think my self the same Person I was before I saw you.

He then proceeded to make an absolute discovery of his Love to her; but the cun∣ning Gipsy pretending she did not under∣stand his meaning, returned him a Civil Answer to the proffers he made her; Re∣peating her former acknowledgments for his kindness, and not doubting the perfor∣mance of what he out of his natural good∣ness was pleased to promise her. Dinner was now come in, and they both sat down; the entertainment was very Noble and Suitable to the Love of the Founder, who seemed to have banished all business and A∣varice out of his mind.

Rosina and Garay had agreed together, that he should come to her when he was sure the old Merchant was abroad, and that he should disguise himself like a Beggar, so as not to be known, nor any suspicion might be conceived by him. She had contrived several ways to defraud the Merchant of some part of his Treasure, but could fix on none that she thought might prove effect∣ual, the Room wherein it was lock'd up being strongly Fortified, but at length she cunningly discovered the place where the

wretched Miser hid the Keys of his Iron Chests.

Marquina went as usual into the City, which being observed by Garay, he comes to the House in Beggar's Weeds with two Crutches. Being got under the window where Rosina look'd out, he begg'd an Alms of her. She threw down something and as∣ked him from wence he came, who an∣swering from Granada, she seem'd extream ••lad, and turning to the Gardner's Wife, ••ays she, let us go down into the Garden; ••his poor Fellow is come out of my Coun∣••ry, and I would fain have some discourse with him, to know what News he hath ••rought from thence. The poor Woman ••specting nothing, made no difficulty to let ••er go into the Garden. Rosina askt him ••ow long it was since he left Granada, he ••eplyed nine or ten days; she continued ••er Questions so long that the Gardner's ••ife weary of their discourse, and having ••••mewhat else to do, left them. Being rid 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her, they consulted what was to be put 〈◊〉〈◊〉 execution the night following, and a∣••••eed what course they were to take to ••••ssess themselves of Marquina's Money.

This done Garay departed, and Rosina ••ent to her Chamber, telling the Gard∣••••r's Wife, that she had understood so ••••ch from the poor Fellow concerning

her Affairs, that she should shortly return into her own Country: The Gardner's Wife and the Maid were not very well pleased to hear that News, fearing their Master, after her departure, should resume his nig∣gardly Humour, and keep as miserable an House as he had done before, nay hap∣ly put himself and all his Servants to a greater pennance in their Diet, to save what he had squandred away, during he•• abode there.

Marquina, upon his return home a Night, found Rosina more cheerful than a any time before, which encouraged him to acquaint her more freely of his Lov•• than he had done before; and to assur•• her of the disquiet he had been in upo•• her Account. Rosina seem'd pleased there with; and by her Familiarity gave him some hopes of seeing his Desires satisfied Upon this Presumption, he presented he•• with a Diamond Ring which cost hi•• above 100 Crowns. The Lady gave hi•• many Thanks for so noble a Present; an•• in requital, play'd him a Lesson on th•• Lute, to which she sung some new Ai•• though she complained that the Instr••∣ment was out of Tune: However, Ma••∣quina was so pleased with the Harmon•• that he promised her a better Present ne•• Day, expecting to oblige her thereby 〈◊〉〈◊〉

grant him the Favour he so earnestly ex∣pected; though in the mean while, Rosina employed all her Thoughts in contriving how to compass the Robbery she intended.

The next Day Garay, who was well ex∣perienced in such Affairs, procured some others of the same Profession to assist him in the Work; and having observed Mar∣quina going into his House, they staid till he was gone to Bed, which was somewhat late; for Rosina, who held a Correspon∣dence with them, had purposely kept him up. About Midnight Garay and his Com∣rades brought a Thing in the shape of a Man, stuffed with Straw, with a Cloak which covered his Face, and planted it on a Stake over-against the principal Win∣dow toward the Garden, which was that part of the House where Marquina lodged. The Night was somewhat dark, and pro∣per for their Plot. Having thus placed the Figure, they knockt so loud at the door, that it might have been heard from one end of the Garden to the other. Mar∣quina awakned thereby, leaped out of his Bed, being surprized at what had never happened to him before. He called to his Servant, and bid him see who knockt; he between sleeping and waking, went and? cry'd as loud as he could, Who knocks there But no body answering, and he not mind∣ing

the Figure that stood near the Wall, told his Master there was no body.

Marquina thereupon got into bed again, and composed himself to rest, but it was soon interrupted; for Garay knockt more violently than before, which so astonished him, that he sent his Man the second time to know what the matter was; who re∣turning with the same account, that he could see no body. Marquina got up him∣self, and calls out of the Window, Who knocks at the door thus unseasonably? No an∣swer being made, he grew more inraged, but looking a little more stoutly about the House than his Servant had done, he per∣ceived the Figure planted before his Win∣dow. Marquina was extreamly surprized at the sight of the Person who had made that great disturbance, and yet gave him no Answer; and assuming more Courago than he was naturally master of, he bold∣ly cryed out,

'Tis basely done of you, Sir, to abuse me thus, you shall find that I am a Person that will not suffer such Affronts, pray walk about your Business, and do not affront me any more, except you think your self invulnerable, and that a brace of Bullets will make no Im∣pression on your inchanted Skin.

Having made this Bravado, he shut the Window and went to Bed; but he was

hardly warm in it, when the knocking was renewed with more Violence than before, which obliged him to take a Musquet that he always kept by him charged for the Se∣curity of his Money. Opening the Win∣dow, he found the Image continued in the same posture;

What Impudence is this in you, said he very much inraged, to do Mischief only for the sake of Mis∣chief in disturbing my Rest, without any benefit to your self, 'tis unpardonable, and deserves exemplary Punishment:

Whereupon, cocking his Piece, he aimed ••t him; and the other never stirring, as ••t were out of a Presumption that he had ••o Fire-arms to make good his Threat∣••ings, he gave him notice a third time, ••hat he would provoke him to that which ••e was unwilling to do: At length, ob∣••erving that he did not regard any thing ••e said, he resolved to give Fire, not only ••o fright him, but to hit him; he shot, and ••he Figure fell to the ground; upon which Garay, who was not far off, cries out with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 doleful Voice, Oh, I am killed! and im∣••ediately he and his Crew made a great ••oise, at the sight of a Man so unfortu∣••ately killed.

Marquina was wonderfully concerned ••or what he had done, covetous Persons ••eing generally cowardly, and soon fright∣ed

at the Thoughts of any loss. He shut the Window, and in a great fright waking Rosina, who had greater things in her Head than to mind sleeping, acquainted her with what he had done. She seemed as much troubled at it as he, and much blamed him for executing so cruel a Resolution; for since he knew himself to be safe enough in his own House, he might have suffered them to knock till they had been weary; and had better have endured that noise, than to bring himself into so much danger by killing a Man; adding several other Reasons, which so confounded poor Mar∣quina, that he knew not what to do: She advised him for his safety to take Sanctuary immediately at St. Bernard's Monastery, since if the dead Persons were found at his Door, he would be certainly sent to Pri∣son, as being murdered so near his House. Marquina was so perplexed, that he wish'd he had never been born; and no question, had not Rosina been highly concerned to dissemble upon this occasion, she must needs have died with Laughing, as being privy to the whole Intrigue. He call'd up his People, telling them what had hap∣pened, who all blamed him for commit∣ting so rash an Action, which made the poor old Dotard almost mad. He ima∣gined himself already apprehended, his

Money carried away, and but a short time ••etween him and the Gallows; at least if he ••ere obliged by Fortune to acknowledge ••he Crime; never considering that it was ••••stifiable for one Man to Kill another in ••is own defence. At last he resolved to go ••o St. Bernard's, but knew not how to dis∣••ose of his Money. He thought it not pru∣••ence to leave it at the discretion of his ••ervants, or to carry it to a Friend's house, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had any, (for Persons of his humour ••ave very few) he had not time.

In this distraction, he desired Rosina's ••••vice, she seeming very much disturbed, ••••d no less fearful than he, pretended she ••••uld not give him any; but after a little ••••use, She gave him that Counsel which ••••e had prepared long before, Asking him ••hat Money he had in the House; He in∣••••niously confess'd that he had about four ••••ousand Crowns in Gold, and about half ••••at sum in Silver;

I'll tell you what I would 〈◊〉〈◊〉, (said this Subtle Baggage) were I in your ••••se; since it cannot be carried to a Friends ••ouse without being seen, I would bury it in ••••e Garden, in some place where you may find 〈◊〉〈◊〉 afterwards, by setting some mark near it. ••••is you must do your self, not suffering your ••••••vants to know any thing of it, lest they ••••uld be tempted to prove false to you; for the ••••••es are now so bad that one does not know who

to trust. I would assist you herein and kee•• your Councel, but that I am afraid when th•• search comes to be made, and I am left here, I shall be the first taken; and I would be lot•• to run my self into danger, having but just es∣caped that trouble I have acquainted you with.

In the midst of his Calamities, Marquina was grieved to perceive by the discourse of his Mistress, that she was much distur∣bed upon his account, and what he laid much to heart was, that he saw himself in danger of losing her. This consideration not only forced Tears from his Eyes, bu•• made him likewise use bitter exclamations against the malice of his Fortune. Rosina desired him to be of good Courage, per∣suading him to follow her Advice, and to hope the best. So having commanded his Servants to go to their several Chambers, and not stir from thence, He and Rosina, whom only he durst trust, went to the place where his Money was; It lay in an huge Chest covered over with Iron Bars, and the Keys were so artificial, that it was impossible to counterfeit them, or to get a peice thence, otherwise then by the Plot invented by our cunning Robber.

They first took out all the Silver, and then put the Gold into a little Box; Bring∣ing all into the Garden, they made two holes at some distance one from the other;

in one they put the Silver, and in the other the Gold, setting a Mark that they might find the place again. Marquina took along with him two hundred Crowns in Gold, and gave Rosina Fifty to shift for her self till the business was accommodated.

That done they went up into the House where they might see several Persons wal∣king with Lights, Garay and his Comerades being there, who represented the Magis∣trate; which Rosina shewing him persua∣ded him to make all the haste he could to St. Bernard's. To do this they got over ••he Garden Wall, being afraid to open ••he Door, for they perceived the Actors ••f this Tragi-comedy kept a Watch there with such Decorum, as if they had been ••eally the officers of Justice. All Mar∣••uina's Family followed him over the Wall, ••earing they might come into trouble for ••heir Master's fault. Marquina and his ••ady lurk'd some where there about, till it ••as day that they might find the Monast∣••y Gates open. Garay was hard by to ob∣••••rve what became of Marquina and his ••eople; Finding he had left his House, ••nd got into Sanctuary with Rosina, he ••ent about an hour after Sun-rising to St. ••ernard's in the habit of a Secular Priest, ••••at he might the better speak with Rosina. ••he told him how matters stood, that they

had buried the Money in the Garden, a•••• that it was all in silver, intending to R••∣serve all the Gold for her self.

Rosina came out of the Monastry, an•• disguized in Man's Cloaths, met with G••∣ray and one of his Companions about mi•• night; All three went to the Garde•• they helpt her over the Wall first, to g•• and see whether any Body were in t•••• House, but they were all vanished, as if 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were infected. She thereupon called G••∣ray and his Companion, having taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Silver they carried it to one of the fa••∣thest Inns in the Suburbs. Having be•••• merry a while and drank their own Healt•• and to the lucky success of their fut•••• designs they went to bed, the two Men t••∣gether; and Rosina by her self. As so•••• as she found they were asleep, she puts 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the same Habit and returns to the Garde•• She took up the Box of Gold, and wit•• out any disaster, got safe to the Inn befo•••• her Companions were awake. The ne•••• day having divided the Silver, of whi•••• she and Garay had the greatest share, se••••∣ed up the Gold in her Clothes, she left S••∣vil, taking Garay along with her, who b••∣ing sensible what advantages he mig•••• gain in her Company, resolved to run fo••∣tunes with her. They took their w•••• towards Madrid, to which place they wi••••

arrive by that time we shall see what be∣••••me of Marquina, whom we left in St. ••ernard's Monastry. Having continued ••here four Days after Rosina left him, he ••new not what to think of her that she ••ame not again according to her promise. ••e addressed himself to one of the Monks, ••ho had much acquaintance in the City, ••nd intreated him to inquire whether there ••ere any proceedings against him for the ••urther he had committed. The Fryar ••romised to give him an account of it; He accordingly inquired at all Places where ••e might most probably know any thing ••f the business, but no body could give him ••ny satisfaction, not having heard any ••••ing of it. He thereupon assured Marqui∣••a he might safely go abroad, and need ••••ar nothing; He went out one Night to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Friend's House, whom he acquainted with ••ll that had past, as also the great perplex∣••y he was in, desiring him to make a more ••articular Scrutiny into the Affair, than ••e thought the Monk had done. He did 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and gave him the same account as the o∣••her; Yet would not that satisfie him, but ••e desired his Friend to go to his House, ••hereof he gave him the chief Key. He ••ent but found no body in it, and his Mule ••ead for want of Food. He returns with ••he News to Marquina, advising him to

come out of the Monastry, and go ho•••• and thence about the City as he was w•••• to do. The death of his Mule did n•••• much trouble him, so glad was he to fi•••• himself once more at Liberty; the on•••• thing that gave him any disquiet was, th•••• his Theodora came not to see him. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 imagined that the cause of it might h•••• that being a young Virgin, she had shelte••∣ed her self some where to keep out 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the hands of Justice, or that haply s•• might have been met with by her Fathe•• who as she had told him sought after he••

He went to his House, whither cam•• soon after, the Gardner, his Wife, and th•• other Servants. He goes into the Ga••∣den, and notwithstanding all the Terro•• and distraction he had been in, remembre•• the place where he had hid his Money, an•• was not a little Glad to find the Man•• where he had set it; so that before h•• went to bed he resolved to secure his Trea∣sure in its former Citadel. As soon as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was dark, he took the Gardner and a La••∣thorn and Candle with him, and goes fir•••• where the Silver was, and bids him Dig•••• He did so, but there was nothing to b•• found, whereat Marquina was wonderful∣ly surprized. He went thence to the plac•• where they had laid the Gold, and the•••• met with as little, only Rosina knew wha••

was become of all. He walked several turns ••bout the Garden with much vexation, ••magining the marks might be displaced; ••ut what with looking for them, and what ••ith Digging, the morning came; so that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 last despairing of finding any thing he ••ehaved himself like a distracted Person. ••he Gardner knew not what he look'd for, ••or for what he had brought him thither. ••he poor Man resolved to have a little pa∣••••ence, and to make a fresh search in the ••orning, having still some hopes of find∣••••g what he had hid. He went to Bed, or ••••ther to lie down in insufferable Tor∣••ents; but as soon as it was day break he ••ot up, and calling the Gardner, they re∣••••rn'd to the work they had been at the ••••ght before. Having digged again in those ••••aces, where he was confident he had laid ••••e Money, all they could discover was, ••••at there had been two holes made there ••••fore, and that Money or something else ••••d been hidden there, but all was remo∣••••d. This assurance made him stark mad, ••••nning his head against the Wall, throw∣••••g himself on the Ground, and acting such ••••antick things, as raised Compassion in ••••s Servants; who from thence concluded ••••at he had lost his Money, and suspected ••••e feign'd Theodora had robb'd him, by ••••e orders he gave them to search after

her all over the City. But she was far e∣nough out of his reach, and had so well se∣cured his Money, that it was never like to come into his Chests any more. He kept his bed for sometime out of meer vexation that he so soon lost, what had cost hi•••• many years trouble and pains to get toge∣ther. The Robbery was soon divulged over all the City; some who knew not his humour, pitied his misfortune, but such as were acquainted with his insatiable Ava∣rice, were not a little pleased to see him so justly punished.

The End of the First Part.