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Abra-Mulè: OR, THE HISTORY Of the Deposition of MAHOMET IV. EMPEROR of the TURKS.

The Second Part.

THE Vizir march'd long marches directly to Belgrade, and the farther his Marches remov'd him from her, the more he felt his heart oppress'd with the burthen of his sighs. What ever Confidence he had in the Assurances that Abra had giv'n him of an invio∣lable Page  72Fidelity, Prince Soliman's Love gall'd him, and the great difficulty always to conceal that Beauty from the Sultan's Eyes made his Love tremble.

On the other side Prince Soliman, whose Pas∣sion was no less violent then unfortunate, found himself o're whelm'd with an infinite number of threatning Difficulties: He saw that Abra's heart was no way touch'd with his Love, that it was prepossess'd with the Merits of a belov'd Rival; that this Rival was in great Power, and the Favourite of a distrustful Brother, and that the Kisler was deep in his Intreague, that Mara∣ma was become suspected, and for that reason all access to the fair Muscovite was forbid her; that the Resolutions of Siaous and Cuproli would perhaps become useless to him through the te∣diousness of Execution, that Mahomet might fall in Love with Abra, and in the midst of these Re∣flexions he saw nothing but grounds of Fear and Dispair.

'Twas at the beginning of May that Maho∣met, with all his Court, arriv'd within sight of Constantinople. The weather was the most love∣ly in the world, and the Bostangi Basha had ta∣ken care to dress up the pleasant Gardens of the Serraglio, and set 'em out with all the Beau∣ty and Politeness that their Master could de∣sire.

The Prospect of these Gardens is wonderful to those that come to Constantinople by Water; more especially that same admirable Terrafs, Page  73which Achmet caus'd to be rais'd for a Walk for the Sultanesses, and which surpasses all the mag∣nificence that can be imagin'd enchanting the Eyes with the sight of it. To devertise himself with so delicious a Prospect, Mahomet having lain by the Sea side about three Leagues from Constantinople, embark'd together with the Sul∣taness Asseki, in a light Saique, magnificently a∣dorn'd, and steer'd by the Bostangi Basha. The rest of the Women, and Persons belonging to the Court, were distributed into smaller, but very neat Barges. And thus the floating and magnificent Court row'd toward the Ha∣ven which is form'd by a little Bay, made in the likeness of a Canal, at the foot of the Ser∣raglio.

They were just entring into it, when a ter∣rible Tempest rising of a suddain caus'd so great a Disorder among the Barges, and made such a confusion, that there was no longer any Order to be observ'd. The Sultan's Bark put in first▪ and set him a shoar, while the rest confusedly croud∣ing together fell foul one upon another, and one of them which carry'd the Women had the misfortune to over-set. As for the Seamen they took care for no Body but themselves, lea∣ving the Women to perish▪ when Prince Soli∣man, who was in the next Bark to that which had miscarried, not only encourag'd the Seamen with large promises of Reward, to succour the poor Women in distress, but to enliven 'em by his Example, threw himself into the Water and Page  72 〈1 page duplicate〉 Page  73 〈1 page duplicate〉 Page  74luckily took one by the Hair, as she was just going to sink, and recovering his own Bark, by the help of his slaves, got her out of the dan∣ger.

The Disorder which this unexpected Acci∣dent had caus'd, the motion of the Waves, the darkness of the gloomy Weather, would not permit the Prince to know at first the Person to whom he had lent his Assistance. But how strangely astonish'd, How over-joy'd! when he understood, that but for him the fair Abra had been swallow'd up by the merciless Waves. She was fallen into a Swoond, and whatever they could do, she did not recover her Sen∣ses till the Prince was landed, and had got her ashoar.

Then it was that she open'd her Eyes, and calling to mind what had befallen her, her first care was to ask for her dear Sarai: The Seamen had had the good luck to save her, and the greatest part of the rest; but Sarai who thought Abra lost, was fall'n into fainting Fits, from which she could not recover: However there was a necessity of carrying her to her Mistress let her Condition be what it would, in regard that nothing but her own Eyes could assure her of the Life of so dear a Confident. It would have been Imprudence for Soliman to have troubl'd her with his Love, considering the con∣diction she was in, and therefore he thought it sufficient not to quit her till he had caus'd her, together with Sarai, to be carry'd into one of Page  75the Bostangi's Lodgings, which was opposite to the nearest Gate; from whence the Kisler Agasi, who was inform'd of the Accident, took care to have her remov'd to the Appartiment which he had appointed for her.

This Adventure, which one would have thought should have been favourable to Soliman begate him new Vexations, because that what ever care the Kisler took to stifle the noise of it, the Bostangi, to whose Lodging she was first brought, inform'd the Bostangi Bachi, and gave him a wonderful description of the Muscovite's Beauty, whose Name the Sultan bad hardly heard of, that that same great Officer, who was deeply concern'd in his Master's pleasures, was not only contented to give him a Relation of the Accident, but aggravated with so much Vehe∣mency what he had heard, that the Sultan the same Evening demanded an Account of her from the Kisler Agasi

The Eunuch, who saw himself upon the brink of the fatal Moment which he had always dread∣ed, and who kept himself prepar'd for all Acci∣dents, answer'd the Sultan, without lessening or magnifying the Sultan's beauty, that she kept her Bed, in so weak a Condition, and brought so low, by the Terrour of the Affright into which the danger she had escap'd had cast her, that he knew not whether she would live or no; that nothing but Rest for some time could re∣cover her, and that so soon as she should be in a Condition to enjoy the Honour of appearing Page  76before his Highness, he would not fail to come and receive his Orders, and yeild him Obedi∣ence. The Sultan being satisfied with the Kisler's Answer, commanded him to take particular care of her, added two thousand Aspers a day to her former Allowance, and Order'd his chief Physican Sedekias, a Jew, to visit her, and give him an Account of her.

The Kisler Agasi having warded off this first Blow had the leisure to see Abra, as he did forthwith, under pretence to give her notice of the Sultan's Generosity, but indeed to con∣sult together what Methods were requisite to make her self appear to Sedekias more sick then she was, and to drill out a counterfeit Distemper, till they could think of some other Intreague to fend off she Blow: And in the mean time he wrote to the Visir, and gave him a full Account of the Accident, with all its Circumstances.

'Twas no hard matter to amuse the Sultan for above a Month, and till he receiv'd the News, that the Siege of Buda was fully resolv'd upon in a Council of War which the Emperor held at Neustadt, and that Prince Charles, and the Elector of Bavaria, were upon their march at the head of Fourscore Thousand Men, in order to sit down before the place: That the Gover∣nour of the Town, who was a resolute Rene∣gado, had already burnt Pest, that he might have nothing else to do, but to mind the De∣fence of Buda, and that there was nothing want∣ing for a vigorous resistance.

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The Emperor's Attempt upon that Place, which bad prov'd unsuccessful two Years before, the new Fortifications of the Town, the numerous Garrison, the vast Stores of Ammunition and Provision, and the Confidence he had in the Valour of Visir Soliman, who was able to draw together above a hundred Thousand Men to relieve it; all these things were great Assi∣stances to set the Sultan's Heart at rest, and made him give himself up to his Pleasures with as much security, as if he had been reposing in the Arms of a profound Peace. Therefore in regard he daily press'd the Kisler to hasten the the pleasure which be expected from the Mus∣covite, and it being impossible any longer to fain a continuation of the Sickness, the Eunuch, who found he could no longer delay the pre∣senting her before the Sultan, thought it high time to awaken the Jealousy of the Sultaness Asseki, so that she being privately made acquain∣ted with the Diversion that was preparing to in∣terrupt her Pleasures, all Engins might be set at work to thwart, the new Desires that now in∣flam'd the lustful Mahomet.

In the mean time, Soliman, who flatter'd him∣self that so considerable a piece of Service as he had done the Muscovite, deserv'd a favourable Acknowledgment of his Love, burn'd with im∣patience to give her a Visit: But the familiari∣ty which Marama had with her was broken off, and all that she could learn by means of her Slaves was this, that a long Ague had atten∣ded Page  78the Accident that befell her, and that she kept her Bed very much, so that there was no coming at her, and all that the crafty Procu∣ress could agitate by her Artifices was to cor∣rupt one of Abra's slaves, and engage her to slide a Letter into her Mistresses hands, yet so as that she should not discover by what hand it came. This Marama make known to Soliman, who unwilling to lose the Opportunity, put Pen to Paper, and gave the Billet to his Confident.

The Slave whom she had won, and well in∣structed, discharged her Trust with so much dexterity, that Abra found the Billet in her Bo∣som, not knowing who had been so bold as to put it there, and not able to withstand her Curiosity, she open'd it, and read the follow∣ing Lines.

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Abra ow'd her life to the Prince, and nothing griev'd her more then that she was beholding to him; seeing that her heart being absolutely the Visir's, she could not pay to his Rival all that acknowledgment which he expected for so great a piece a Service. Her acknowledgment Page  80therefore went no farther, then only to pitty him for throwing away his Affection upon an object that could not admit it. But after she had read a second time that part of the Letter which gave her to understand that the Visirs being in love with her, was not unknown to the Prince, it struck her with a more then extraor∣dinary Grief; and not doubting but it was the letter which had been intercepted in the Gal∣lery, the consideration of that infus'd into her a Detestation of such a paltry Trick, and that Detestation of the fact, soon turn'd to a hatred of the Person; for that being perswaded that since the Visir and he both knew them∣selves to be Rivals, they could not but hate each other, her heart never waver'd which side to take. So that Seliman's Billet was so far from moving Abra's heart, that it did but inspire her with hatred, tell then she never had for the Prince, and that she might not undergoe the same Reproaches which the Visir had made her upon her first silence, the first time she wrote she sacrific'd to his view this Letter from her Rival.

This was the Posture of Affairs at Constantino∣ple, while other intreagues were in Agitation at Belgrade. Siaous and Cuproli Basha's, who were the most signaliz'd for their Valour and Con∣duct, had as I have already said, devoted them∣selves to serve Prince Soliman's Passion by the ru∣in of the Visir. Finding therefore that Buda was beseig'd, and that the Visir had given out Or∣ders Page  81for the drawing together a numerous Army, with a design to relieve the place, they resolv'd by all manner of Artifices to prevent the succour of it, and rather so to order it that the Visir should lose a Battel, then have the Hon∣our of saving it; not questioning but a loss of that importance would be attended with the Downfall, and perhaps the Death of that Mini∣ster. Nevertheless the better to conceal their cor∣respondence, and not to endanger both their Heads, at one time, in the hazards which this con∣spiracy might produce, they thought it conve∣nient that Siaous, who had a great Reputation among the Soldiers should remain in the Army, and that Cuproli, who had accepted the command of the Dardanells, which is an Employment of great Trust, should keep his post there, where he might so much the more effectually make use of his power to detain or divert the Succor and Subsistance of the Armies. On the other side, Prince Charles of Lorrain, being desirous to take all the precautions imaginable that might conduce toward the success of his Enterprize, thought it convenient that Michael Abaffi, Prince of Transilvania, should be constrain'd to declare himself for the Emperor, to the end the Turks might be depriv'd of the subsistances which they drew from him as their Tributary; and to the end, that at the same time they might act in the Upper Hungary, and by keeping Tecekly in play, prevent his joining the Ottoman Army.

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The Visir, who forsaw the consequence of these two designs, did two things in hopes to disappoint 'em. In the first place he order'd Sultan Galga and the Basha, with all speed to u∣nite their forces with Takeli's, in order to make a powerful diversion in the Upper Hungary, and at the same time to defend the Passes of Transil∣vania.

Siaous began the Execution of his Conspi∣racy with his thwarting the prudent contri∣vances of the Visir, and having at the same time engag'd the Basha of Walachia in his intreague, 'twas no hard matter for the Imperialists to beat the Ottoman Troops that shew'd themselves upon the frontiers of Transilvania. They made them∣selves masters of Hermansbourg, forc'd Abaffi to break with the Turks, and reinforc'd with his Troops, fell upon the Tartars, forsaken by the Basha of Walachia, so that by this first blow of Siaous's intreaguing Treachery, the Visir found himself at the beginning of the Campaign de∣priv'd of that subsistance he was wont to have out of Transilvania, and upon which he rely'd; and at the same time bereft of that Advantage which he expected from his projected Diversion in Hungary.

Prince Charles lay'd Siege to Buda with Forty Thousand Foot, and Twenty Thousand Horse, Sixty great Pieces of Cannon, and forty Mortars; and Abdi Basha, the Renegado, left nothing omit∣ted that a prudent, undaunted, and accomplish'd Governour could do for the preservation of a Page  83place that was furnish with a Garrison of Ten Thousand Men, and all things necessary for a long defence.

On the other side, the Trenches and Attacks were carry'd on with all the Vigour and all the Art imaginable; the Sallies were frequent and terrible, and it cost the Germans a world of Blood, before they got to the body of the place.

In the mean time the Grand Visir gave out Orders every way for the rendevouzing an Ar∣my sufficient to raise the Siege, and manger all the secret Obstacles that he met with, but of which he knew not the reason, having muster'd together an Army which he thought sufficient to decide the fortune of Buda by a Battle, he cross'd the Theysse. But they still founder'd his purposes with so many new oppositions, that he was no sooner got over the Bridge of Esseck, towards the end of July, but Buda, after a close Siege of six weeks, began to be very much di∣strest.

Nevertheless he surmounted all these difficul∣ties, and about the beginning of August ad∣vanc'd within five Leagues of the Lines, and encamp'd upon the rising Grounds adjoining to the Danaw. Now in regard that Abdi Bosha had sent intelligence, that his frequent Sallies had ex∣treamly weaken'd his Garrison, and promis'd him to hold out all the rest of the Campaign, provided he might be reinforc'd with fresh sup∣plies of Men, the Visir commanded the Seraskier to force his way, and put in a Relief of two Thousand Janisaries.

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To this purpose the Seraskier set forward with six Thousand Foot and three Thousand Spahi's, which made up a body to defend the two Thou∣sand Janisaries. Their intention was to force the Imperialist's Quarter, while Adbi made a Sal∣ly upon the Bavarians, and by that means to throw in two Thousand men into the Town. But Siaous having found a way, by means of a Deserter, to inform Prince Charles of all these de∣signs, he sent forth a numerous Body to meet the Enemy without the Lines. The Combat was smart and cruel; the number of the slain on both sides was very great; the Turks no sooner broken, but rally'd again, perhaps they would have forc'd their passage, if the Spa∣bi's, whose Officers observ'd the private moti∣ons of Siaous, had not forsaken the Janisa∣ries; so that the Infantry being left alone and at∣tacqn'd on every side, could no longer defend themselves against fresh Troops that pour'd in upon 'em, and the Visir not being able to come to a general Decision, among the Mountains where his Enemies lay entrenched, the Seraskier was routed, his Infantry broken, almost all the Janisaries slain, not one being able to get into the place.

The Visir enrag'd at this Repulse, and desi∣rous to put all to the venture in order to force the Enemies lines, call'd a Council of War; where Siaous, who cunningly carry'd on his In∣treague, feign'd at first to applaud the Visir's Resolution, and threw upon the Seraskier all Page  85the blame of the success; but then his own Creatures which he had ready prepar'd starting contrary Sentiments, supported by reasons that appear'd extreamly plausible, he turn'd o' their side, and drew the rest of the Officers after him. Nevertheless, in despite of their Advice, the Visir would follow his own judgment, and got every thing in a readiness to fall upon the Ene∣my next Morning. But then Siaous rais'd a kind of Sedition among the Spahi's, so that the Visir fearing to be set upon himself in the heat of the Tumult, pull'd down his Tents and remov'd three Leagues farther.

He thought by this means to have calm'd their Fury, and proposing the same thing a se∣cond time, he saw 'twas impossible to overcome the resistance of the Basha's. So that all he could do, in the height of his Vexation was, to pull thirty Thousand Ducats out of a little Chest, and tell 'em to two Thousand Janisaries, who for the sake of that summ, primis'd to lose their lives every man, or to get into the Town.

They march'd in the Night time, seconded by a part of the Army, and fell upon the Quarter of the Brandenburghs and Croates with so much fury, that they made all give ground be∣fore 'em, and had not the vigilance of Prince Charles put a stop to it, the Succour had infal∣libly cut their way through; but he having drawn up his whole Army in Battalia, after a bloody slaughter, the Turks were repuls'd, by reason that eight thousand Spahi's refus'd to Page  86obey the Visir's Orders; so that of two Tho∣sand there were not above four Hundred Jani∣saries that could force their way over the bodies of the slain into the Town, the rest being all devour'd by the Sword.

But this Disobedience of the Spahi's remain'd not unpunish'd; for the Visir having caus'd some of the most Mutinous to be empla'd, he call'd another Council, and told 'em, that he did not call 'em to deliberate, but to shew 'em the Sul∣tan's Order, which was, rather to venture all then lose Buda; and that a Moor having swam the River had brought him Letters from Abdi to let him know that he could hold out but a ve∣ry few days longer.

Having dismiss'd this Council, he caus'd his Army to march, and reapproach'd the Lines, and having drawn up his Army in Battallia, rea∣dy to fall on, he detach'd a thousand Spahi's, two thousand Janisaries, and two thousand Tar∣tars to begin a false attaque on the Imperialists side, while he fell upon the Bavarians Quarter with the body of the Army.

Prince Charles, being well inform'd of the Vi∣sir's design, display'd his Courage, his Wisdom and Experience to a Miracle. The false attack was so violent, and the medley so hot, that the Prince had his Camp Adjutant slain close by him; the besieged also made a vigorous Sally. But Prince Charles had order'd every thing with so much prudence and fore-sight, that the Turks were repuls'd with great loss, at the same time Page  87that they who began the false attack were beaten and disperss'd. So that the Visir, who at that very moment was about to have fallen upon the Bavarians, found such a Pannick fear among his men, because they saw the Count of Schaf∣femberg's Volant Camp pass the Danaw Bridge, that 'was impossible for him to command the Obedience of the Soldiers; insomuch that he was constrain'd to retire without making any far∣ther attempt.

This last Blow put him into a Fury, and there∣fore discovering that the two Bashas who com∣manded the false attack, had not done their du∣ty, he commanded their Heads to be struck off, and to repair his losses, he sent to an Aga, who commanded six thousand Janisaries at Esseck, to joyn him with all speed; and to other Basha's he sent Orders to spare him what men they could.

But while he was preparing for new Efforts, Prince Charles, perceiving the Breaches open and level enough for a general Assault, he storm'd the Town in three several places; the Renegat Abdi was kill'd upon the Breach, and the place carry'd, and nothing escap'd the Sword of the victorious Soldiers, but what the generosity of the Princes could save from their Fury.

The Visir, at his Wits end for the loss of so important a place, retir'd under the Guns of Esseek, and there without passing the Drave, entrench'd himself. Prince Charles follow'd him, but could not force him to a Battel, which Page  88would have been a vain thing against a victori∣ous Army. Therefore he kept himself close in his Entrenchments, where he had the misfor∣tune to receive the News of the loss of Segeden, and some other places of less consequence; but at length repassing the Drave in his Return to Belgrade, the Imperialists burnt the Bridge of Esleck, and so ended the most glorious of all Prince Charles's Campaigns.

In the mean time the sad tidings of the loss of Buda, and other places, were carry'd to Con∣stantinople; which wrought upon the People the full effect that Prince Soliman, Siaous and Cuproli desir'd. But the Visir was too well fix'd in the Sultan's favour, not to find him graciously inclin'd to hear his justifications; which was the only Consolation left him in the heap of his Afflicti∣ons; for that while he lay at Belgrade, he un∣derstood by Letters from the Kisler, that the Sul∣tan had seen Abra, and that he was desperately in love with her; nevertheless, that the fair Muscovite was resolv'd to be constant to him, though Mahomet had order'd her to be remov'd into the Serraglio of Calcedon, call'd the Serraglio of Looking Glasses; however in regard the Sul∣tan did not prosecute his Amours like a Turk, but as a courtly and generous Prince, he did not believe that Mahomet would seek to enjoy her against her will, but that he would make use of his Courtship to win her Affection.

Let us therefore leave the Visir a while at Bel∣grade, settling Affairs in the best method he could, Page  89and making all the hast his business would per∣mit to return and give the Sultan an Account of a Campaign, the ill success of which he was sure could not be imputed to his ill Conduct; and let us see how things were carry'd at Constan∣tinople between Abra, Mahomet and Soliman.

The Sultan, who before he had seen the young Muscovite, but barely upon the relation of the Bo∣stangi Bachi, had plac'd her by an augmentation of her Pension in the Rank of his Favourites, press'd the Kisler to satisfy his amorous Impati∣ence; so that the Eunuch after long delays, which tended only to give motion to the Jealousy of the Sultaness Asseki, could no longer defer fulfil∣ling the Duty of his Employment; and therefore he told the Sultan that Abra being in perfect health was now in a Condition to appear, and that the next morning she would be walking up∣on the Sultanesses Terrass.

The Eunuch however was so crafty, that he would not permit any more then eight or ten to walk along with her, who being every one of 'em exquisite Beauties, he was in hopes that such a dazle might puzle the Sultan's heart, and cause an amorous diversion. He also oblig'd 'em to add to their natural Charms whatever Artifice could procure, while Abra, who had no designs of conquest, appear'd with all the care∣lessness that modesty and decency would permit her.

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However he could not so order it, but that the Sultan found her much more assable then all the rest, who would have been much more wil∣ling to have answer'd his desires. After a turn upon the Terrass, which was only spent in gene∣ral converse, and in expressing his surprize at the sight of so much Beauty, and his Astonishment that he had not seen nor taken notice of her at her first Entrance into the Serraglio; they walk'd down into the Garden of Fountains, where a noble Collation was prepar'd in a Grotto, adorn'd with Coral and Mother of Pearl, and wherein the Water sported after a thousand delightful manners. After this Entertainment, Mahomet, who had not till then apply'd himself particularly to the Muscovite, took her from the rest of the Wo∣men, who retyr'd, and leading her into a green Arbour, he declar'd to her those Motions, to which he imagin'd she would not have testify'd the least coyness.

But he was strangely surpriz'd to find in her that coldness and indifferency, which he least ex∣pected; however he imputed it to that awe which the Majesty of a Sultan might imprint in her up∣on the first sight; and therefore being endu'd with a Noble and Courtly mind, he forbore to press her, in hopes that the pleasures he should receive from the hands of Love, would be infi∣nitely more sweet then those for which he was beholding to his Power and Authority.

The next morning at the time that Abra rose, the Kisler attended by six Eunuchs enter'd her Page  91Chamber, and kneeling with one knee kiss'd a gold Box enrich'd with Diamonds, which he held between both his hands, and without spea∣king a Word set it upon her Toylet, and at the same time the six Eunuchs, who had every one a Basket of Gold Filagreene, with a Present in each, set down the six Baskets by Abra, and af∣ter a profound Bow retyr'd, leaving the Kisler alone with her. Abra, who understood well e∣nough the meaning of all this Serraglio-Mumme∣rie, could not forbear weeping, and casting a sorrowful Eye uyon the Kisler: Must it then be, dear Agasi, said she, must it then be, that this E∣vening my heart and the Visir's must receive their deaths wound from your hand.

I betray not, said the Kisler, neither your Love, nor the sincere friendship I have for the Vizir, I only discharge the indispensable Duty of my Employment, wherein if I should fail, I should disable my self from serving yee.

Ah, what service can you do me, cruel Agasi, reply'd Abra, when you have once deliver'd me over to the Sultan. As a slave, reply'd the Kisler, I owe my Obedience to the Sultan, and as a Friend my Service to the Visir, and I fullfil both these Duties, by telling you in favour of his Highness, that if Ambition could tempt yee, and that you could but conform to the Sultan's Love, there would be nothing wanting to the Grandeurs which he has design'd you. But if your Love be still more prevalent on your heart then these ambitious Prospects, I must tell you Page  92also in his behalf, that you have no more to do but to persist in your Coldness for Mahomet: I know him: he loves to be beholding to his Merit and his Passion, and not to his Power, nor does his Presumption ever call violence to the succour of his lust, he will trye allways of per∣swasion to gain your affection, but he will never proceed to constraint; act according to these In∣structions, and trust the best Friend the Visir has.

Ah, dear Agasi, reply'd Abra, you restore me to Life, and never doubt but I will rather lose it a Thousand times then prove unfaithful to your Friend. I must also acknowledge to you, that since I have heard what you have said to me, 'tis something of a Pleasure to me to see my self belov'd by the Sultan, because it afford's me a pleasing Opportunity to sacrifice to the Visir all Mahomet's Grandeur. May nothing Extinguish so noble a flame, reply'd the Kisler; but it will be necessary, Madam, added he, that you read the Sultan's Letter, and that I carry him your An∣swer. 'Tis in that Box. Abra open'd the Box; and found a Letter Written in Purple Characters upon White Taffata, Embroider'd with Gold, and folded up in a Handkercher of most Deli∣cate Workmanship, where after she had open'd it, she read the following Expressions.

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Would to Heaven, said Abra, that Mahomet would be as good as his word, and that he would keep within the Bounds which he prescribes himself. But, added she, casting a wishful look upon the Kisler, is there no way to be dispenc'd with from writting to him? That would be the way, reply'd the Kisler to ruin all: Nor dare I look the Sultan in the Face unless I carry him your Answer. Thereupon Abra set Pen to Paper and wrote the following Billet to Mahomet.

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The Sultan, who valu'd himself for being an Artist in the Curiosities of Courtship, found something in this Billet wherewith to flatter him∣self, that this same first Reluctancy was onely an artificial Slight to enflame his Passion so much the more. And therefore he undertook to van∣quish it by regular Attacks; and his first care was to conceal from the Sultaness, the Methods which his Love should oblige him to take.

On the other side Prince Soliman, having re∣ceiv'd no answer to his Billet, sought all the ways imaginable to see Abra. She was ac∣custom'd to walk in a private Garden, which consisted onely of a Bowling green, and a Laby∣rinth Page  95of Palisado's. Soliman therefore had screw'd himself into the Friendship of one of the Bostangi's that were wont to work there; and by him it was, that he was inform'd of her frequent walk∣ing there.

The Prince under pretence of a bare Curiosi∣ty, made so many Presents and Promises to this old Bostangi, that he consented to furnish him with a Habit of his Companions, and to let him in∣to the Garden after the Hour of third Prayers, provided he hid himself in a nick or hollow Seat which he fitted for him, in the body of one of the Palisado's of the Labyrinth; assuring him that that was the part of the Garden which Abra most usually frequented.

This contrivance was put in execution to So∣liman's wish: Abra fail'd not to come, and af∣ter she had taken a Turn in the Bowling-Green, she enter'd into the center of the Ladyrinth, where she sate down, together with her Confi∣dent, upon a Bank of Turf, which adjoyn'd to the Receptacle of the Fountain.

She had receiv'd the Evening before a very tender Letter from the Sultan, and fearing least at length he should come to exert his Love like a Tyrant, she chose this time to condole her Misfortunes in Sarai's Company, and to impart her Sorrows to her for the ill success of the Visir.

No sooner were they sate down, but Abra, continuing the Discourse which they had had before, Be you judge, dear Sarai, said she, whe∣ther it be possible for a Woman to be expos'd Page  96to greater Misfortunes. 'Tis not anough that Heaven has destm'd me to Love the Visir to that degree that nothing can be more belov'd; that this Love was not inspir'd into me till I was sacrific'd to dismal Slavery; that the Visir, not∣withstanding his Valour and Conduct has mis∣carry'd in all his Enterprizes; that his Misfortunes expose him to the Murmurs of the People, and perhaps to the Sultan's frowns; but that still to the heap of my Misfortunes and my Sorrows for his ill success, I must be yet more afflicted with the troublesome Passion of Prince Soliman; and then to the accomplishment of my Afflicti∣ons, the Sultan has seen me, and is in Love with me.

What was then Prince Soliman's astonishment and grief may readily be conjectur'd. He found his Love disarm'd, the Visir belov'd, and as a surplusage of Afflictions he perceiv'd he had a new and more dangerous Rival, the Sultan him∣self. While his heart lay drown'd in these deep inundations of Dispair and Grief, Sarai pursu∣ing the Discourse, Heaven usually reserves, said she, her greatest-Misfortunes for the greatest Souls. But what reason have you to make such loud Complaints? You love, and are belov'd; may not the Visir's Courage recover his Misfor∣tunes; the Sultan loves him, and excuses him already: And what need Prince Soliman disturb yee, considering how little you esteem his love, and his want of power to molest yee: As for the Sultan, you know he scorns to make any Page  97Attempts upon your heart, but by ways of Love. And therefore never abandon your self to the agitations of a Despair, that proceeds rather from Imagination then any real Grounds.

Ah! dear Sarai, my Passion is mounted to that degree, that if the Visir cannot find a means to release me from this slavery, or that the Sul∣tan's Lust transports him to the least violence, a Dagger shall punish my heart for all the Vex∣ations it has put me to. Alass! Into what seas of Grief will it not plunge the Visir? What Jea∣lousies and Fears will overwhelm him, when he understands that Mahomet is his Rival, he that was so vehemently jealous of Prince Soliman? Neverthe∣less, said Sarai, I never perceiv'd that you had the least spark of love for that Prince. Who I, reply'd Abra, I knew the worth of Prince Soliman, I could not blame his Passion for me; I admir'd the excess of it, that caus'd him to expose his head, that he might discover it to me; besides that I am so unfortunate to owe my Life to his preservation; all this might prevail something o're a heart that was not prepossess'd. But mine is not my own, nothing can deprive his Rival of it; and seeing then they must hate each other, seeing they know themselves to be Rivals judge thou how hateful that Prince must be to me, and how careful I ought to be to avoid his company.

How extraordinary soever Soliman's trouble might be, this Confession however left him some room to flatter his hopes, and imagining that the Opportunity might be favourable to some new Page  98Effort, he was about to shew himself from the Palisado, when a great noise gave him to understand that the Sultan was approaching. The Sultan took a turn or two, and being inform'd that Abra was in the Labyrinth, thither he went: She rose up, but Mahomet engag'd her to reseat herself upon a Bank of Turfs, so near to Soli∣man, that he might be almost heard to breath. Mahomet sate down by her, and they had a long and courtly Conference together, which termi∣nated on the Sultan's part only in amorous Importunities, and in respectful and modest de∣nials on Abra's side. At length the Sultan rose up, gave his hand to the fair Muscovite, and having led her to the Garden door, he went off through another with the Bostangi Basha, to communicate some Intelligence to him which he had receiv'd.

It may be easily imagin'd in what condition Prince Soliman was, and what various Agitations turmoyl'd his heart. How! said he, have I two Rivals at one time? One of which is belov'd, and the other has all the freedom imaginable to declare his Passion, and is able to make him∣self happy when ever he pleases to make use of his Power, while she is insensible of my flames, and it is my Misfortune that I cannot meet with an Opportunity to make known my noble fires. No—'tis impossible for me to continue un∣der such a sultry Violence, nor to suffer the fe∣licity of two Rivals both at one time.

He was then labouring under the Tumults of his thoughts, and left his station possess'd with Page  99as much fury as Love: but in regard the Bostan∣gi, who had plac'd him in his convenience was without, he was oblig'd to stay till the dusk of the Evening began to confound the sight, and render the Objects of it less discernable, and then he made a shift to eseape; but he could not do it so dextrously, but one of the Bostangi Basha's Eunuchs perceiv'd that a Man had hid himself in the Lybyrinth while the Sultan was there, of which the Sultan was inform'd; and though it could not be discover'd who the Person was who had ventur'd to that degree, yet in regard that Love is always ingenious to afflict it self, it soon came into Mahomet's head, that Abra's cold∣ness to him must needs be the effect of some my∣sterious Love; that his assiduity to get into the Labyrinth was the Effect of that Love, that it must be some unknown Lover that had been so daring, and never suspecting the Prince his Bro∣ther, he resolv'd to prevent the Consequences of such an Intreague, and to that purpose or∣der'd the Kisler the same day to carry Abra over the streight of Calcedon, and shut her up in the Serraglio of Looking-glasses.

The Eunuch could not avoy'd the putting this Order in Execution, tho' it griev'd him to the Soul, and broke all the measures he had taken to serve the Visir: for that being oblig'd to remain in the Grand Serraglio near Mahomet's Person, the Ser∣raglio of Looking-Glasses was govern'd by the Kisler Kiasi, who is a kind of Deputy to the Kisler Agasi; and because not being able to go Page  100thither, but when he was order'd by the Sultan to attend him, Abra was now destitute of the Consolation and Advice which he was wont to give her. So that all the good he could do her was only to place such Slaves about her as she desir'd, and Eunuchs for whose fidelity he could be answerable.

In the mean time Constantinople was all in an Uproar, by reason of the continual bad Ty∣dings that follow'd one another of the Mis∣fortunes of the Campaign; and Siaous's and Cu∣proli's Friends spread abroad Reports so disadvan∣tageous to the Visir's Conduct, that he was be∣come the Object of the Peoples Aversion and Scorn.

But when the Prince understood by Marama, that the Sultan had remov'd Abra, and put her into the Serraglio of Calcedon, and had caus'd her to take upon her the name of Sultaness, his jealousy made him believe that she had Sur∣render'd to the Love of this new Rival, and his despair not being able to imagin any other way to enjoy her, but by making himself Master of his Brother's Throne, from that very Moment he took a Resolution to pull down his Brother, and to take the Advantage of the Conjuncture to dis∣pose the exasperated minds of the People to Revolt.

His Mysterious applying himself to the study of the Alcoran, had made him take particular care always to insinuate himself into the Friendship of the Mufti's, who are the Soveraign Pontiffs of the Law, and to be in a Continual familiarity with the Imans, who are the Preach∣ers Page  101that hold forth in the Mosquees, and with all the Mahometan Clergy; by which means he had gain'd their Hearts by the affected shews of a superstitious Devotion, and by the Liberality of his Alms of which he made them the Trustees; so that 'twas no hard thing for him to incense those senseless Ecclesiastics, and put 'em upon rayling publickly against the Authors of all the Disorders in the Empire, under pretence of Preaching Repentance to the People.

From the Abuse of this false Zeal, it was that the first Inclinations to Revolt, slidd themselves into Male-contented Breasts. But Mischief was yet a great way off, and therefore before they could fall upon the Person of the Sultan, there was a necessity of ruining the Visir, who was his Zealous Favourite, and who possess'd the hearts of the Principal Officers of the Empire.

The Prince was therefore perswaded that the loss of Buda, that the victorious Progresses of the Christians, ev'n to the Bridge of Esseck, and that the Murmurs of the People against his Chief Minister, would wean the Sultan's Affection from him. But he was surpriz'd when he saw the Visir arriv'd at Constantinople, with a Writting sign'd by all the Principal Officers of the Army, and Siaous himself, who was forc'd to swim with the stream, for fear of Discovering his In∣tentions, and that this Writing was an Encomium of the Visir's Conduct, prudence and Courage, and which justify'd him in every particular that could be Objected against him.

Page  102

The Sultan, who had always had a kindness for him, was overjoy'd that his Souldiers gave his Favourite so advantageous a Testimony: He receiv'd him with open Armes; and order'd him to hasten more powerful Preparations, that he might the next Campaign repair the Misfor∣tunes which were not to be imputed to any de∣fect in Him.

Prince Soliman, who began to buckle the Spurrs of his Ambition with the Impetuous de∣sires of his Love, and who by the loss of one of his Rivals, was desirous to hasten the downfall of the other, finding that whatever Siaous and Cuproli had done during the Campaign prov'd fruitless, labour'd under unimaginable Vexations. Siaous and Cuproli were arriv'd at Constantinople, and Prince Soliman so order'd it, as to meet 'em both in a place, wither he came to 'em in disguize.

Presently the Prince told 'em, that after what they had done the last Campaign, things were reduc'd to that Extremity, that either they must ruin the Vizir, or expect all three to perish by the Bow-string; that there was no time to be lost; that since the Loss of Buda, of such Importance to the Empire, wrought no effect upon the Sul∣tan, but that his Minion was still as much in favour as ever, there was but one way to suc∣ceed, which was to make themselves absolute Masters of the Army; that they should cause 'em to revolt in the midst of the Campaign, and oblige 'em to demand the Head of the Grand Visir, and of all his principle Friends; Seeing Page  103then, that the Sultan affraid of himself, would be forc'd to sacrifice him to his own Security; and that then the Seal of the Empire could fall into no other hands, but either Siaous's or Cuproli's.

The two Basha's acknowledg'd that the Prince spoke nothing but what was reason, however they did not yet penetrate into all his Designs; and Soliman, like a crafty Politician, was desirous to render 'em still more Guilty before he impar∣ted to 'em the last Crime they were to commit. All this while they follow'd the Interests of their own Ambition, and as the first steps they had made engag'd them to push forward the ruin of the Visir, or else patiently to submit to their own destruction, they promis'd Soliman to go on with the project, of which he had given the draught.

The favourable reception which the Sultan gave the Visir, and the augmentation of his Pow∣er and his Credit did not abate his deadly Affli∣ctions, to find that his Master was his formidable Rival, in whose power it was to make him hap∣py. Nor was the Kisler any longer able to give him the Opportunities of seeing his beloved Mi∣stress. All that he could do, was cunningly to conveigh his Billets to her by Saria's means, and the fidelity of the Eunuchs which he had plac'd about her. So that the Visir having no other consolation left, desir'd his friend to get the following Letter deliver'd to her.

Page  104

The Kisler caus'd this Letter to be faithfully deliver'd: In the mean time the Sultan, maugre all the Vigilancy of the jealous Sultaness, found out pretences to go to Calcedon. For the murmurs of the People, and the insolent Harangues of the Imans, afforded him anow; and therefore faign∣ing not to be safe in Constantinople, he frequent∣ly crost the Streight, and to give the more co∣lour to his Pretences, he many time held the Divan in the Serraglio of Looking-Glasses, and Page  105then he order'd the Visir to attend him.

One Evening that he went thither with his chief Ministers, and that they two were just en∣tring into his Cabinet to prepare what was fit to be propounded the next day to the Divan, they were amaz'd to hear the loud Cries and Skreekes of Women quite through the Galleries, at what time they were inform'd that a suddain Fire was broken forth in the Body of the Building, and that the Flames besieg'd the principal apparti∣ment on every side, which was the appartiment where the Sultan had plac'd his fair Muscovite; so that hastning thither, together with the Visir and their Train, they found the Conflagration so violent, that neither Slaves nor Eunuchs durst venture thorough to succour the Women who were in extream Danger.

The Sultan's Voice and his Orders encourag'd 'em, but the Visir understanding which was A∣bra's Appartiment, was the first that flew to her Aid; and having sought and found her alone in a Swoon in her Chamber, he took her in his Arms, and seeing that the violence of the Flames had seiz'd that part at which he enter'd, he made his may through Clouds of Smoak, and through another Gallery which led to an Apparti∣ment a good way from the Fire.

The Sultan, who neither saw the Visir return, nor knew what was become of Abra, thought her lost, and display'd his Sorrow at a more then usual Rate; some Women that were sav'd could tell no tydings of her; neither could Sarai her Page  106self make any Discovery, who was not with her Mistress when the Fire broke out.

In the mean time, Abra being carry'd to the furthest end of that Appartiment, which the Tu∣mult had quite Empty'd, recover'd her Spirits, and found her self in the Visir's Arms. How∣ever she was still in an Amazement, nor could she apprehend the meaning of such a surprizing Adventure. But the Visir, who was not willing to lose so precious an Opportunity, threw him∣self at her Feet, and Embracing her with no less Ardour then Respect; Ah, Madam, said he, you behold once more your Unfortunate Lover; Heaven could not remove the Obstacles that ren∣der'd you invisible, but by exposing your life to the most dreadful of all Dangers; nothing but a miraculous accident could afford me this oppor∣tunity of seeing you. Lucky Danger! Favour∣able Meeting! But may I know, Madam, whi∣ther your heart be as constant as mine: I was affraid of a Rival who had no power; but Fate has found me out another who can do whatever he pleases; have I no cause to fear neither his Love, nor his Power?

His Empire, answer'd Abra, may be absolute over every thing else, but o're my heart. But as for my heart, I preserve it for your self till Death, and I will lose a thousand Lives, before I prove unfaithful to you. But, Sir, will you suffer me to perish in his Fetters, are they so in∣vincible that you cannot release me?

Page  107

Ah, Madam, reply'd the Visir, there is not any Reason, or danger that can hinder me from doing it, if it be your desire, and this is the most favourable opportunity in the world if you can resolve to make use of it. The whole Serraglio is in an upproar, the Sultan will believe yee lost in the Flames, stay but a minute here, and Ile go fetch one of my white Eunuch's Habits, and set yee out of the Serraglio, through the door of one of the Gardens, of which I have the Key; for the rest never trouble your self, Love, Pru∣dence and Opportunities will direct us.

How odd and dangerous soever this propo∣sal appear'd, such was the cruel Condition that Abra was in, that without any more ado she accepted the offer. The Visir was soon furnish'd with the Habit he desir'd, and having disguiz'd her, he let her out at the Garden Door, and deliver'd her into the charge of one of his most faithful Eunuchs, who not knowing who she was, but taking her for some new Eunuch that had been presented to his Master, put her into a little Fisher Boat with a disign to land her in Constantinople.

The Visir, having thus entrusted his Treasure to the Fidelity of that Slave, went to attend the Sultan, a thousand accidents presenting them∣selves for pretences to excuse his Absence. Maho∣met was at his wits end; though the Fire was quite Extinguish'd, by leaving the Flames to feed upon the grand Appartiment, while they stopt it from going any farther, by pulling down some Page  108building between that and the rest of the Serra∣glio; but search was made for the Muscovite in every corner, so that at length the Sultan gave her over for lost; and that which confirm'd him the more in that Opinion was, that after the Fire was put out, they found the remainders of five or six Bodies.

In the mean time, Abra's Vessel row'd directly to Constantinople by the bright Rays of the Moon, and she flatter'd her self that she should now soon enjoy the only Person whom she Lov'd above all the World; but there is nothing more to be wonder'd at then the Fantastick changes of For∣tune.

The News of the Fire in the Serraglio of Look∣ing-Glasses was brought to the chief Sultaness a∣bout Midnight; therefore because she kept the chiefest part of her Treasure there, and for that she knew besides that the Sultan was gone thi∣ther, these two disturbing reasons oblidg'd her to send for the Kisler, and take her Saick imme∣diately, with orders to cross the Water to Calce∣don. But no sooner had she put to Sea, but by the dawning light of day, they discover'd a little Fisher Boat making for the Europaean shore; upon which the Sultaness who was willing to hear News, constrain'd the Visir's slave to come aboard her Vessel. Presently she ask'd him se∣veral Questions, and finding him tripping in his Answers, she sent for the White Eunuch, with whom he said he was entrusted.

No sooner was he come into the Cabin in Page  109Disguise, but the Kisler, who accompany'd the Sultaness knew Abra notwithstanding her dis∣guise; and the Asseki, charm'd with the Beauty of the Eunuch, declar'd that she would keep him to attend upon her. But the Kisler being a man of a cunning, sharp and present Wit, and quickly conceiving that Abra had made her es∣cape by some contrivance of the Visirs, he knew that if the Sultaness should carry her back to Calcedon, 'twould be the ruin of both the two Lovers, and therefore never hesitating what course to take, he put all the People out of the Cabin, excepting the White Eunuch, and that done, the Kesler taking Abra by the hand, and squee∣zing it in his own to prevent surprize, he look'd upon the Sultaness, and putting the Question to her as it were in jest, may a man rely upon yee, Madam, should he trust ye with a secret which you would be glad to know? I had thought, re∣ply'd the Sultaness you had known me better then to doubt it. Upon your word then, Ma∣dam, I must put so much confidence in you, as to let you understand that this fair Eunuch is the lovely Muscovite with whom the Sultan is so des∣perately in love, but who no less obstinately re∣fuses to correspond with his Amour. I find she has taken her opportunity in the confusion caus'd by the Fire to get away. Would you, Madam, carry her back to Mahomet whom she avoids, and who without question hunts after her in a thou∣sand disquiets of mind? My duty indeed re∣quires that I should seize her, and deliver her Page  110back into his hands; but I am too much your friend to take that course. 'Tis for you, Ma∣dam, to do as you think sitting; and if you will take the Advice of a Slave, that is solely de∣voted to your interests, I would not have yee let go this happy opportunity that Heaven has put into your hands; you may at once deliver your self from the fears of so amiable a Rivaless, and at the same time release her from all her Pains. Bury this important secret in a pro∣found silence, and content your self with allow∣ing her a safe sanctuary from the Sultan's Passion, which at length perhaps may cool and return to its first object.

The Asseki, confirm'd by Abra's confession, who instead of revealing to her the secret of the Visir, gave her to understand, that she had of her own head made her escape from the Sul∣tan, embrac'd her, and promis'd her all manner of favour and security, and by concert with the Kisler, sent her to Constantinople, to a place where she was absolute Mistress, and where she kept her conceal'd under an unknown Name. However she pursu'd her first intentions, went to Calcedon, and return'd with the Sultan, who was more perplex'd for the loss of Abra, then for all his other misfortunes. On the other side, the Kisler inform'd the Visir of what had befallen the Mus∣covite, which peirc'd him to the Soul, finding that he had lost her again, tho' he thought him∣self a competent gainer in having releas'd her from slavery to the Sultan.

Page  111

During these amorous motions, the prepara∣tions for the Campaign were carry'd on might and main, and the Visir left nothing omitted that lay in his Power to put himself into such a condition that he might repair his losses; while Siaous and Cuproli prepar'd the minds of the Sol∣diers every where for mutiny, instilling it into their heads, neither to have any confidence in the Grand Visir, which is the Soul of obedi∣ence, nor any esteem for him, which preserves respect.

The Visir stay'd but a while at Constantinople, for the Sultan oblig'd him to hasten away for Bel∣grade; and this it was that occasion'd the report, as if he never had been there. His first care was to repair the Bridge of Esseck, notwithstanding those difficulties which appear'd unsurmounta∣ble; and soon after he put himself at the head of his Army.

On the other side Prince Charles, and the Duke of Bavaria, having rendevouz'd together above Sixty Thousand Men, advanc'd at the head of 'em, and resolv'd to decide the Fate of the Cam∣paign by a pitch'd Battle, and to that purpose cross'd the Drave. But the Vizir, who had been more speedy in his march then they ex∣pected, came and Encamp'd with Fourscore Thousand men in view of the Christian Army; and in regard he understood perfectly well how to make choice of his Ground, he had got the Drave upon the right, a Forrest upon his left, Esseck in his rear, and an intrenchment in front, Page  112fortify'd with a double Moat forty foot wide, and a double Rank of Palisado's: So that he forc'd Prince Charles, after some Rude Encounters, to retreat for want of Provision. But he made his Retreat in so good Order, that he repass'd the Drave in view of the Enemy without the least disturbance, and Encampt within a league of Mohatz.

The Visir, flatter'd with this first Advantage, and desirous to make the best of it, past the Drave, and being posted between Esseck and Darda, sent out numerous detachments to har∣rass the Christian Army. As for his own Camp, he had entrench'd it with a Palisado'd moat which secur'd his Front, he had Esseck in his rear, from whence he was plentifully supply'd with Provisions, the Danaw, and Impassable Morasses secur'd his Right Wing, and his Left was cover'd with a Wood, by the side of which lay a long Morass; so that it was a difficult thing for Prince Charles to venture the forcing his Camp without hazarding the loss of his whole Army.

Therefore he made use of all manner of stra∣tagems and motions, to try whether he could draw the Visir from his Post, and bring him to a General Battel. But he, who found himself better supply'd with Provisions then the Impe∣rialists, sought to ruin 'em by frequent Skir∣mishes, and therefore keeping close in his Camp, sent out Parties continually to disturb the E∣nemies Forragers, or to attack 'em in their Movements.

Page  113

But all this while he was ignorant of what Siaous was plotting in his Camp, in Conjunction with Basha Yeghen, a Man Daring, of a Turbu∣lent and Seditious Spirit and the Visir's particu∣lar Enemy, insolent in his language, but Eloquent, gifted in persuasion, and who by his fami∣liar deportment had gain'd great Credit with the Souldiery. Their Design was to force the Visir to a Battel, and so to order their Affairs that he might lose it, that it might serve for a pre∣tence for the Souldiers to revolt.

All things being thus concluded, upon the 12th. of August Prince Charles, faigning a Retreat pass'd a narrow Lane full of Hedges that co∣ver'd his March, and gave order's for his Army to embattel in the Plain of Siclos. The Visir having Intelligence of this General motion of the Christian Army, sent away some consider∣able Bodies to follow 'em, and fall upon their Rear commanded by the Elector of Bavaria. The Basha of Arabia also was order'd with one part of the Army to second the Detachments. But Siaous who judg'd the Opportunity proper for his design, presently put the Souldiers into such a fit of Murmuring, as if their General had depriv'd 'em of a certain Victory, that the Visir finding that the Basha acting beyond his Orders, march'd on with the Detachments, and not be∣ing able to restrain the Heat of the Souldiers, drew his whole Army out of their Entrench∣ments, and advanc'd directly toward the Impe∣•ialists in Battel array.

Page  114

The Vanguard of the Turk's overtook the Rear of the Christians, before they had pass'd the narrow Lane; so that the whole stress of the first Charge fell upon the Elector of Bavaria. However, having gain'd the rising Ground design'd him for his Post, in despite of all the Enemies Efforts, he stood firm, and Prince Charles reinforc'd him with the second Line of the Vanguard, to prevent the Enemies Charging him either in Flank or Rear.

The Turks charg'd him with great fury, and he withstood 'em with no less prudence then undaunted Bravery, and venturing in the hottest of the Enemies firing, he was wounded in the left hand with a Musket Bullet.

In the mean time Prince Charles, who was ad∣vanc'd a great way farther, thought it conve∣nient to draw the Enemy into the Plain, where they might have more Roome for Action, and succour one another with more Freedom. This caus'd the Elector to quit his Ground, tho' Skirmishing all the while, so that his Rear-guard made the Left Wing equal with the Right, which Prince Charles Commanded.

Presently the whole Army of the Turks ap∣pear'd in Battell array, and the Princes who had now what they wish'd for charg'd 'em on all sides: The Insidels also fell on with great Fury, and at first had some considerable Advantage, having routed the Croates, and almost cut in pie∣ces Comercy's Regiment; and the success of the Bāttel had been very dubious, had not the Spahi's Page  115by the contrivance and treachery of Siaous, Yeghen, and the Basha of Arabia, left the Janisaries that fought against the Duke of Bavaria, who taking his advantage of that disorder, fell upon the In∣fantry opposite to him with an extraordinary fury. However, the Janisaries instead of being brok'n, retir'd in good order as far as their En∣trenchments, where at first they fell a firing at a prodigious rate, but not being seconded by the Horse, they betook themselves to flight, and this Rout of the Turks Right Wing striking a Terrour into the Left, the Disorder became Gene∣ral, the whole Army was denfeated, and the Camp. taken and pilladg'd; at what time the Vizir retreating of Esseck, and having rally'd his scat∣ter'd Troops, found he had lost above Twenty thousand Men.

Siaous would not let this Opportunity slip, which he had taken so much pains to bring a∣bout; so that the Mutiny began with the Quar∣rels between the Spahi's and the Janisaries; but they being soon reunited, vented all their fury in Murmurs against the Visir; who not under∣standing whence the mischief proceeded, thought to have appeas'd 'em, by distributing among 'em all the Money he had. But the poison was too well prepar'd, and had spread it self too far; so that the minds of the Souldiers being more and more envenom'd, their Clamours augmented, while the Imperialists prosecuting their Victory, made themselves Masters of Esseck, and the Pas∣sage of Drave. Nor was Siaous contented with Page  116stirring up the Souldiers to murmur, but in∣censing them to an open Revolt, put himself at the Head of 'em, and Yeghen had the boldness to enter the Visir's Tent, and demand in the Name of the Army the Seals of the Empire, and Mahomet's Standard, declaring, they were re∣solv'd no longer to obey him.

This Insolence producing a great Uproar, the Visir made his escape, got by water to Belgrade, and thence posted to Constantinople, to give the Sul∣tan an Account of the Campaign, Siaous's Trea∣cheries, and the Condition of the Army.

The Visir having thus withdrawn himself, Siaous became Master of the Army, and depu∣ted six Officers to demand, in the Name of the Souldiers, the Heads of the Vizir, and of all his principal Friends, of which they drew up a List. The Vizir being inform'd of these furi∣ous Proceedings, sent the Seals of the Empire to the Grand Teffterdar, for him to deliver 'em into the Sultan's hands, and with only one slave stole privately into Constantinople, and went to the Kiamakan's House, where the Kisler came to him, and assur'd him, in the Sultan's Name, that neither his Misfortunes, nor the Mutinies of the Souldiers, had shaken his Fa∣vour; that he lov'd him; that he pitty'd him, and that he was not only resolv'd to see him, but to defend him against the fury of the Re∣volters.

However, nothstanding all the weight of these Misfortunes with which the Vizer seem'd to Page  117be overwhelm'd, he had still his thoughts fix'd upon the fair Muscovite.

We gave an Account, how some few days before the departurte of the Vizir for Belgrade, she fell into the Hands of the Sultaness Asseki; but the Vizir was so far from being able to get to her in the place, where she was kept con∣ceal'd, and under another Name, that he could hardly procure the delivery of a Letter to her; nor had he receiv'd any from her, though the Kisler had had credit enough to keep Sarai about her still.

However he understood by a Eunuch, that the Sultan knew very well that she was not burnt in the fire, and that he had private Intel∣ligence that she had made her escape out of the Serraglio of Looking-Glasses; nevertheless that he knew not who had contributed to her escape, and that all the Diligence he had us'd to find out the Place of her Retirement had prov'd fruitless. That Prince Soliman had been better inform'd; for that Marama who held her Correspondencies every where, had div'd into the Secret out of a Conceit she had that her escape was a stroke of the Sultaness's jealousy, and that upon that discovery she was negotiatiog with the Sultaness Asseki; with whom she had intrusted the secret of Prince Soliman's Love, and had put it into her head that the only way to deprive Mahomet of her was to deliver her up to his Brother.

This drove the Visir to his Wits end, to see the utter Ruin of his Fortune and his Love both Page  118at one time: However the Kisler carry'd him privately to the Sultan, who receiv'd him ten∣derly, and assur'd him not only of the continu∣ance of his favour, but of his Protection against the Fury of his Enemies.

In the mean time the Commanders from the Army arriv'd, and Mutaferaka, the chief of 'em, an intimate friend of Siaous's, after he had pri∣vately conferr'd with Soliman hautily demanded an Audience, which the Sultan would fain have refus'd him.

He declar'd, that the Souldiers, having found that the Visir Soliman was not able to command 'em, would no longer obey him, that they de∣manded him Head, and the Heads of the Kay∣makan Redgeb, the Grand Teftarder, the Kisler Agasi, with the heads of several Others, of which he deliver'd a List in writing: That while they receiv'd his Highnesses Orders they had made choice of Siaous for their Captain, a person of accomplish'd Experience, and Zeal for the good of the Empire; that they hop'd the Sultan would approve their Choice, and would send him the Ensigns of an Employment which he merited by his Services and his Fidelity.

But this Insolence of the Army which went about to give Laws to their Soveraign, shook not Mahomet's Resolutions as yet, for he thought by distributing Money among the Souldiers to appease their fury; and they who either shar'd in his growing Troubles, or fear'd the Conse∣quences of the mutiny, readily contributed to Page  119the raising a considerable Summ. The Sultaness Asseki gave two Thousand Purses, of five hun∣dred Crowns each; the Kisler Agasi furnish'd almost as much, and others proportionably: But the minds of the Souldiers were too much ex∣asperated; they took the Money indeed, but it was all thrown away to no purpose.

The Mutiny therefore growing more outragi∣ous, and Siaous and Yeghen being Masters of the Army, and in Constantinople, where Soliman caus'd the Directors of the Mosquees to act their Parts, and the Sultan remaining Obstinate, and resolv∣ing rather to lose all, then deliver up the Visir to the Mercy of his Enemies, bethought himself of taking another Course; which was to de∣grade the Visir and the Caimacan, and to conferr the Employment of the first upon Siaous, and upon Cuproli his Brother in Law the place which the latter held; imagining that the Ambition of the Ringleaders being satisfy'd, the tumults would cease.

With these hopes, he sent for Cuproli from the Dardanells, and made him Caimacan, instead of Redgeb, and dispatch'd away the Seal of the Empire and Mahoment's Standar'd to Siaous; but he declar'd he would never consent to the death of Officers whom he esteem'd both Loyal and faithful.

So soon as Cuproli saw himself advanc'd to the second place in the Empire, he had a private Conference with Soliman, and then it was that the Prince descover'd to him his design to make Page  120himself Master of the Empire, which till then he had always kept conceal'd in his Breast. Now in regard it was the Interest of this New Caima∣can and Siaous, who found the power in their hands to attempt what they pleas'd, to corre∣spond with the ambitious Designs of Prince Soliman, he found Cuproli inclin'd to second his desires, and undertook for Siaous, that he should concurr with 'em in the Accomplishment of their wishes.

Things being in this Confusion, and Mahomet still resolv'd not to abandon the Visir to the Rage of the mutinous Souldiers, had caus'd him to re∣solve upon a safe Course, which was to with∣draw himself from the impetuosity of their Ha∣tred, by retiring to the Prontiers of Persia, and there to stay till Affairs might recover a new face, and furnish him with a favourable Op∣portunity to regain his Reputation.

This was concluded between 'em, and ready to have been put in Execution: But the Visir, who in the midst of his Misfortunes could not forget his Dearest Abra, desir'd the Kisler that he would engage himself to procure the delivery of but one more short Letter to her, and afford that last comfort to a Friend whom perhaps he might never see again.

The Kisler mov'd with compassion of his Friends overwhelming Misfortunes, would not refuse him that last favour; so that being en∣trusted with the Letter, he gave it into the hands of an Eunuch, who was wont to carry others Page  120of the same nature to Sarai. But a most cru∣el Destiny, and unexpected accident hinder'd it from falling into the hands of that beloved Con∣fident. For the Eunuch gave the Letter to ano∣ther slave, who seeing Sarai in the arms of Death, and believing there was some secret in the Gold Box, wherein the Letter was enclos'd, her cu∣riosity made her open it, and understanding by the reading of it, that the unknown person whom she serv'd was that Abra, for whose loss the Sultan was so extreamly troubled, she thought the discovery of such a secret would raise her Fortune, and therefore being introduc'd into Mahomet's presence, she deliver'd the Box into his Hands; at what time the Sultan having o∣pen'd it, read the following words.

Never was surprize to be compar'd with that of the Sultan's; and never did so violent a Fury seize the heart of a Lover enrag'd, and a Master betray'd. He made a considerable present to the slave, and being exactly inform'd of every thing, and understanding that the Letter pass'd through the Kisler's hand, he bid her be silent, and so dismist her.

No sooner was he alone by himself, but with a fuming Indignation sparkling in his Eyes, and looking a second time upon the Letter, the Tray∣tors shall dye, cry'd he, with a sigh of high displeasure. How! a Favourite, upon whom I have heap'd my Favours, is it he that rends from my Bosom the Person whom I adore! An Infa∣mous Eunuch, who my Bounty has rais'd from the Chains of Thraldom to excessive Power and Wealth betrays me in my own Serraglio, and in concert together both the one and the other make me their sport, while I hazard the loss of my Diadem to protect 'em from the fury of their Enemies. 'Tis too hard on my side, but they shall perish both.

Afterwards he rack'd his Brains, to penetrate who might be his other Rival. He knew the Sultaness could easily resolve him, but he was loath to mention the matter to her. But at length Page  123after the first commotions of his Fury were over, he gave Orders to seize the Visir, the Kisler A∣gasi, and all the rest whom the Soldiers demand∣ed, as Victims to the tranquility of the Em∣pire.

He order'd Abra's Picture to be brought him, which was found about the Visir in a little Case, and which he wore upon his heart; the sight of the Picture redoubled his inward Vexations, and the fire of his Anger or'e ruling his Friendship which he thought abus'd by the foulest of all acts, In∣gratitude, he resolv'd the Visirs Ruin. Never∣theless he was willing that the victim which he offer'd to his Love, should be lookt upon as an oblation sacrific'd to the publick good. To which purpose calling a Divan, wherein the new Cai∣macan Cuproli presided, he decreed the Death of the Visir, the Kisler Agasi, and of all the rest whose Heads the Soldiers demanded, who under Yeghen, follow'd by Siaous, were marching with all speed toward Constantinople.

This decree was put in Execution the same day upon the Visir; and the Sultan would needs have him tortur'd, to make him discover who was that other Lover mention'd in his Letter; but his generosity would not permit him to make any Confession: So that after he had suffer'd the Rack, he was strangl'd in the Serraglio, and his Head sent to the Souldiers; and to give 'em entire satisfaction he order'd the Kisler Agasi, the Caimacan Redgeb, the Grand Teftardar, and all the other unfortunate Objects of their Fury to Page  124be deliver'd up in Chains to their Fury, who no sooner appear'd before the Army, but they were cut in pieces with a more then barbarous Inhumanity.

The Army had already past through Adrianople, and were still advancing, while the Sultan who thought he had fully satisfy'd 'em by this Bloody Sacrifice, was desirous that his Love should in some measure reap the Fruite of what he had done; to which purpose the New Agasi took away Abra from the Sultaness, and shut her up again in the Serraglio of Calcedon, whither he went to Visit her, shew'd her her Picture, together with the Visir's last Letter, and upbraided her with all the severest Reproaches that she could expect from an enraged Sultan, and a furious Lover.

During this cruel Catastrophe, Prince Soliman saw his ambitious Aims advancing toward their Accomplishment. The Visir, and all his princi∣ple Friends, most Loyal to the Sultan, were now cut off. Siaous and Cuproli possess'd the two chiefest employments in the Empire, the Old Musti was chang'd, and a new one put in by Cuproli, and the Imans still heated the People, and supply'd 'em with fuel to feed the Flames of premeditated Revolt; but all this while he miss'd the satisfaction of his Love, in regard the Sultan having broken all his private Measures with the Sultaness, had got Abra into his own Possession; so that he saw no other way to wrest her from his Embraces, but by ascending his Throne, and making himself Lord of his Ser∣raglio.

Page  125

Every day brought some new Persons over to his Party, and Cuproli, who by vertue of his em∣ployment presided in the Divan, in the Visir's Absence had gain'd by his Artifices the new Kisler Agasi, whose Assistance was very necessary in case there should be any Tumult in the Serraglio.

The Prince therefore finding Abra forc'd away by the Sultan into a new Captivity, was affraid least he should make use of violence to procure the Satisfaction of his Love; and this it was which engag'd him to precipitate the Execution of his Design, for which he had all along taken his Measures with Cuproli, who was well convinc'd that Siaous and he enjoy'd their Employments only by vertue of that Force which had wrested the Grant of 'em from the Sultan, and that they could not preserve 'em but by placing Soliman upon the Throne.

By this time the Army that still march'd for∣ward under Yeghen, was not above two days March from Constantinople, and Siaous follow'd with the Main Body, and the better to conceal his Design, faign'd a Quarrel with him, but their common Aim was the Deposal of a Master whom they had offended, and who could never have a real Affection for 'em. As for Cuproli, he had made all the Provision that could be for the execution of the Enterprize, as well in the Ser∣raglios and his preparations of the Mufti.

Soliman therefore, for the sake of his Amour, desirous to hasten the Business, went to Cuproli, lay'd open to him the bottom of his Heart, and Page  126his Passion for Abra, and gave him moreover to understand, that in placing him upon the Throne they fulfill'd the Importunities of his am∣bition, but did nothing for the Repose of his Mind, which depended upon the Enjoyment of Abra, and preventing Mahomet's Passion from offering Vielence to her.

She was in the Serraglio of Looking-Glasses deeply plung'd in sorrow and Affliction, nor could she reflect upon the unhappy Fate of her dear Visir, strangl'd by the order of his Rival, in whose power she was, without aban∣doning her self to all that Rage and Despair could inspire of most Dismal and Mournful. She had seen her Picture in the Sultan's Hands, which he had not shew'd her, had it not been to tryumph the more barbarously over the Ruin of his Rival. By that, and by the Visir's letter, she knew that the Discovery of his Love was the only cause of his death and her Grief being so much the more bitter, by reason that death had depriv'd her of her dear Confident, nothing but only the Resolution she had taken to revenge herself upon Mahomet, had put a stop to the dire Effects of her own Despair.

In the mean time, the new Kisler Agasi having Engag'd himself in Soliman's interests, and being inform'd of his Amours, offer'd himself to speak to the Muscovite in his behalf, and after he had discours'd her in private, he found her highly incens'd against Mahomet; and therefore to ex∣cite her the more willingly to correspond with So∣limons Page  127Passion, he thought it proper to impart to her the inclinations of the great Officers of the Empire, to set Soliman upon the Throne.

Upon this Discovery, Abra who breath'd no∣thing but Revenge, put the Kisler in some hopes, that so soon as Prince Soliman had satisfy'd her Revenge upon the Sultan's barbarous Cruelty, she would be more enclin'd to favour his Pas∣sion.

The Kisler gave Prince Soliman an account of this seeming Compliance; and that was enough to make him seek all ways to hasten that Revo∣lution, which he thought the only means to ar∣rive at Abra's Heart. In the mean time he deem'd it necessary to assure her, by a Billet un∣der his hand, that there was nothing which he would not willingly undertake, or endeavour to bring to pass, so he might deserve her Love.

Now in regard that Mahomet had plac'd a ve∣ry faithful Slave to attend upon Abra, that she might have a watchful Eye upon all her Acti∣ons, this Billet fell unhappily into the Sultan's Hands, who by that means found out who was that same formidable Rival whom the Visir never would confess; so that he no sooner had read it, but without any deliberation he determin'd a speedy Revenge.

'Twas Night, and therefore only attended with two of his Guards, he took his Arms, and flew to Soliman's Appartiment with a furious Precipitancy, in hopes to sacrifice him with his own hand to the attonement of his Rage.

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Nor is there any question but he had succeed∣ed in his Project, had not Cuprilo and the Kisler Agasi, by taking true measures to prevent what∣ever might disappoint their designs, and by gi∣ving forth all necessary Orders to secure the life of him they lookt upon already as their Sove∣raign, frustrated the Effects of his Fury.

The Eunuchs who guarded Soliman, defended the first door of his Appartiment, but Mahomet himself who fell upon 'em with more then or∣dinary fury, after he had kill'd one and woun∣ded two more, had forc'd the first door, and without doubt had beat down the second, had not the Kisler Agasi hasten'd to the noise, with a Company of armed Eunuchs, who fell upon Mahomet's Guards, and constrain'd 'em to stand upon their own defence.

The Sultan enrag'd to see the Agasi in Arms against his Person, lay'd about him with his Sci∣miter upon the Eunuchs, well seconded by his Guards, so that the Combat was beginning to be somewhat bloody, at what time the Bostangi Bachi arriv'd with a good number of armed Bostangi's. Mahomet thinking he had been come to his assistance, order'd him to seize the Kisler, and to put all the Eunuchs to the Sword; but the Bostangi, who was one of Soliman's Crea∣tures, looking fiercely upon the Sultan, We no longer Acknowledge your Commands, said he, Your Life depends upon that Brother, who you are going basely to Assassinate. The Sultan was so surpriz'd at these insolent Words, that he stood like a Statue, Page  129while his Guards betaking themselves to flight, left him in the Power of the Bostangi, who caus'd his Attendants to surround him, and after he had seiz'd and disarm'd him, carry'd him to his Appartiment, where he was lockt up under a strong Guard.

In the mean time the Kisler carry'd the Princes into the old Serraglio, and Cuproli having assem∣bl'd the Mufti, together with the Principal Offi∣cers in Mosquee of Sta Sophia before day, there the Mahometan Pontiff sign'd the Fetfa for the Deposal of Mahomet.

This first Ceremony being over, Cuproli re∣pair'd to the old Serraglio, caus'd Soliman to be plac'd upon a kind of a Throne, and having proclaim'd him Sultan, was the first himself that pay'd him Homage. After this, they re∣ferr'd it to his pleasure to dispose of Mahomet's Destiny, who thought it sufficient to shut him up during the Remainder of his days.

His Ambition being thus satisfy'd, the only thing he apply'd his Mind to next, was to gra∣tifie his Love. To which purpose he command∣ed the Kisler Agasi to repair with all speed to Calcedon, and bring away the Sultaness Abra; whom he declar'd his Asseki, and to deliver her a Letter which he wrote to her in the following Termes.

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Abra joyfully receiv'd the news which the Kisler brought her, that she was reveng'd upon Mahomet; but in regard she was not ignorant that the Visir's Misfortunss had been the Effect of a Conspiracy between Siaous, Cuproli, and Soli∣man, and consequently that the Prince was the real Author of his death, she abhor'd him with the utmost Hatred that an Injur'd heart could be capable of.

Page  131

Therefore she listen'd very heedfully to the Kisler, read Soliman's Letter, and then fixing her Eyes upon the Eunuch, Never, said she, did Wo∣man Love a man with that Fervency and Fide∣lity as I lov'd the Visir; for his sake I disdain'd and contemn'd all the Advantages wherewith Mahomet could flatter my Ambition; nor have I less despis'd Prince Soliman's vehement Passion. Mahomet put to death my Lover and I am re∣veng'd, but the Disaster that befell that Lover was the Workman ship of Sultan Soliman's ar∣tifices, and I have not a Heart so base and trea∣cherous to seek my Revenge upon his person, by foul and ignominious means, with which a counterfeit Affection might furnish me, so that not being able to punish him any other way, then by wresting my self from the Embraces of his Passion, you shall tell him how I correspond∣ed with his Love. And having pronounc'd these last words; she drew forth a dagger which she held conceal'd under her upper Garment, and stabbing herself through the heart fell dead at the Kisler's feet.

Such was the dismal Catastrophe of Abra-Mulè's Amours; so fatal to the Ottoman Empire, and to three Unfortunate Lovers. The Visir, whom she lov'd, was strangl'd; Mahomet lost his Empire, and Soliman fell into such a terrible fit of Melancholly and dozing Vexation, that he Page  132only languish'd upon the Throne in a pro∣found and continual Pensiveness, the cause of which few persons knew; and at length, falling into a kind of insensibility of every Thing, excess of inward Grief, that never left him, brought him to his end.

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