The fourth volume of letters writ by a Turkish spy who lived five and forty years undiscover'd at Paris : giving an impartial account to the Divan at Constantinople of the most remarkable transactions of Europe, and discovering several intrigues and secrets of the Christian courts (especially of that of France) continued from the year 1642 to the year 1682 / written originally in Arabick, translated into Italian, and from thence into English, by the translator of the first volume.

LETTERS Writ by A Spy at PARIS. VOL. IV.

BOOK III.

LETTER I.

To Abdel Melech Muli Omar, Pre∣sident of the College of Sciences at Fez.

THou hast formerly received a Letter from me, wherein I mentioned the Tenets of a certain French Philoso∣pher who maintains, That the Earth moves like the Rest of the Planets, and the Sun stands still, being the Center of this our World: For he asserts, that there are Many.

The Name of this Sage is Des Cartes, Re∣nowned throughout the World for his Learn∣ing and Knowledge. H•• lays as a Basis of all his Philosophy, this short Position and Infe∣rence, I THINK; THEREFORE I AM. In this alone he is Dogmatical, al∣lowing a Lawful Scepticism, in all the Un∣certain Deductions which may be drawn from it.

Pardon me, Oraculous Sage, if I expose be∣fore thee my Infirmities. I am Naturally di∣strustful of all Things. This Temper puts me upon Perpetual Thinking. And that very Act convinces me, of the Truth of my Being, according to the Method of this Philosopher. But What I am, I know not. Sometimes I Phancy my self, no more than a Dream or Idea of all those other Things, which Men commonly believe do Really Exist: A mere Imagination of Possibilities. And, that all which we call the World, is but One Grand Chimaera, or Nothing in Masquerade.

At other Times, when these wild Thoughts are vanished, and my Spirits tired in the Pur∣suit of such Abstracted Whimsies begin to flag, and that my Lower Sence awak'd by some present Pain or Pleasure, rouzes my sleeping Appetites: When I am touch'd with Hunger, Thirst, or Cold, or Heat, and find experimentally, I am Something that cannot be a mere Thought or Dream, but of a Com∣position which stands in Need of Meat, Drink, Garments, and other Necessaries: Then, ra∣ther than fret my self with Vain and Endless

Scrutinies, I tamely conclude, I am that which they call a Man, I lay the Sceptick a∣side, and without ••ny farther Scruples or Doubts, fall roundly to eating, drinking, or any other Refreshments my Nature craves for.

But no sooner have I tasted these Delights, when my Old Distemper returns again. I then consider my self as a Being, capable of Happiness or Misery in some Degree, as I shall possess or Want those very Delights I just before enjoyed. This is a sufficient Damp to a Thinking Man, when he knows, that he stands in Need of any Thing out of himself. But 'tis far greater, when he will take the Pains to number all the Train of his Particular Necessities, which he is not sure he shall always be able to supply.

This makes me presently conclude, That as I am Indebted to Other Creatures for my sensible Happiness, so I owe my very Being to Something beside my self. I examine my Original, and find I am born of Men and Wo∣men, who were in the same Indigent Cir∣cumstances as my self: And that it is not only so with my Particular Family, but with all Mankind; our whole Human Race, being born Natural Mendicants from the Womb. As soon as we breath the Vital Air, we Cry; and with those Inarticulate Prayers, beg for Help and Protection from others, without whose generous Aid we could not subsist a Moment: So poor and beggarly a Thing is Man, from his Birth. This is the Condition

of all: Neither is a King any more ex¦empt from this Common Character of Mortals than the Slave who sweeps the Streets.

If I could have rested in this Thought, I should have been happy: For it would have had this Influence on me, either to convince me, that I ought to be content with the Condition to which I was born, or to rid my self out of so despicable a State by Death.

But alas, one Thought produces another: And from the Contemplation of our present Misery in this Life, I fall to thinking what will become of us after Death. For, as we know not What, or Where we were before we came into this World; so there is no Human Certainty, Whither we shall go, or in What Condition we shall be, when we leave it: And therefore, it would be an unpardonable Mad∣ness, to throw my self headlong into a State of which I have no Account: And, to avoid the Little Miseries of this Life, which must have an End one Time or other, cast my self down a Precipice (for ought I know) of Intolerable Torments, which has no Bot∣tom.

I hear the Philosophers talk of Immortality, the Poets of Elyzium, the Christian Priests of Heaven, Hell, and Pargatory; the Indian Bramins of Transmigration. But I know not what, or which I have Reason to believe, of all these.

I speak after the Manner of Philosophers; for, if we come to Faith, the Case is altered. Think not, I beseech thee, that I call in Question the Sacred Oracles, the Revelations of the sent of God. But I only acquaint thee, how my Natural Reason hatters me with Doubts.

I see Men every where professing some Re∣ligion or other; paying Divine Honours to some Superiour Being, or Beings, according as they have been Educated: Which many Times tempts me to think, that Religion is Nothing but the Effect of Education.

Then I wonder, how Men when they come to Years of Discretion, and their Rea∣son is able to Distinguish between Things probable, and mere Romances, can still retain the Errors of their Infancy. 'Tis Natural for Children, to be wheadled or aw'd into a Be∣lief of what their Parents, Nurses, or Tutors teach them. But when they come of Age, they soon rectify their misled Understandings, in all Things, save the Affairs of Religion. In this they are Children still, tenacious of the Sacred Fables of their Priests, and Obsti∣nate in maintaining them, sometimes even to Death.

It puzzles me to find out the Cause of so strange an Effect, That Men otherwise endu'd with Mature Judgments, and an extraordina∣ry Sagacity in all Things else, should yet be Fools in Matters of Religion, and believe Things Inconsistent with the Common Sence and Reason of Mankind.

I could never give Credit to the Histories of the Ancient Pagans, which acquaint us with the devout Adoration they paid to the Creatures of the Painter or Carver, did not I see the same practised among the Christians: Or, that those Wise Men of Old, cou'd swal∣low the Forgeries of their Priests concerning their Gods and Goddesses, were I not an Eye-Witness, how bigotted the Modern Nazarenes are to the Legends of their Saints, and the Jews to those more Ridiculous Figments of the Talmud.

It perplexes me, to see Mankind generally labouring under so great a Darkness, not so much the Effect of Ignorance, as of Super∣stition: To behold Men well vers'd in Sci∣ences, and all kinds of Humane Learning; yet Zealous Assertors of manifest Contradictions in Matters of Divinity, rather than oppose, or so much as examine the Traditions of their Fathers.

When I behold Mankind divided into so many innumerable Different Religions in the World, all vigorously propagating their own Tenets, either by Subtilty or Violence, yet few or none seeming by their Practice to be∣lieve what they with so much Ardour pro∣fess; I could almost think, that these various Ways of Worship, were first invented by Politicians; each accommodating his Model, to the Inclinations of the People whom he design'd to Circumvent.

But when on the other side I consider, there appears something so Natural and Ʋndis∣guis'd,

in the Furious Zeal, and Ʋnconquera∣ble Obstinacy of the Greatest Part; I am as ready to Joyn with Cardan, and conclude, That all this Variety of Religions, depends on the Different Influence of the Stars. This was a famous Philosopher in Europe; and held, That the Religion of the Jews, ow'd its O∣riginal to the Force of Saturn, that of the Christians to Jupiter, and Ours to Mars. As for the Pagans, he assigns to them ma∣ny Constellations and Aspects.

Thus there is so equal an Appearance of Truth and Falshood in Every Religion, that I should not know how, in Human Reason, to fix on any.

Superstition renders a Man a Fool, and Scep∣ticism is enough to make him Mad. To be∣lieve All Things, is above Reason; to give Credit to Nothing, is below it. I will keep the Middle Path, and direct my Faith by my Reason.

That Faculty tells me, that if I were in inclined to Adore the Sun, Moon and Stars for their Beauty and Influence, I might on the same Ground Worship my own Eyes, with∣out which I could not behold their tempting Splendors: Or, I might as well pay Divine Honour to that more Intimate Sence, my Feeling, or any of my other Sences, which only render me capable to know the Vertue of these Luminaries. The fame may be said of the Elements, and of all Visible Be∣ings.

What then shall I Adore, or to whom shall I return Thanks for all the Blessings I enjoy (for, even in this Miserable Life, I taste some Happiness?) To that Being, I say, shall I address my Vows and Supplications, for all the Good that I possess and want? Is it to any Thing that I have seen or can see, or that I can represent to my self under a Figure? Is it to any Part of the Ʋniverse, or no? No: To the whole Complex together? No. I have a Thousand kind Thoughts for the Sun, Moon and Stars, for the Elements, and many other Compound Creatures. My Soul, and that of the World, are Ʋnisons. But 'tis the Profound Depth of Eternity, the Infinite and Immortal, who is the Diapason, and makes perfect Harmony.

To that Being which has no Resemblance, neither is Divided into Parts, nor Circum∣scrib'd with Limits; whose Center is every where, Circumference no where; Who hath neither Beginning nor End: To the only Om∣nipotent, from whom all other Things flow, and to whom they all return; To him I owe all that I have, and will pay what I can. And something by his Determination, I am Indebted, and will discharge to thee, Orient Light of the Moresco Mussulmans; that is, the Duty of an Humble Slave, in begging Par∣don for this Presumption.

Paris, 14th. of the 2d. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER II.

To the Kaimacham.

'TWas the Contemplation of Isouf Eb'n Hadrilla, an Arabian Philosopher, That all Men were at First Created in a State of War: For this Sage, gave no Credit to the Writings of Moses, the Jewish Historian and Prophet; neither cou'd any Arguments perswade him to believe, That all Mortals descended from Adam. 'Twas an Article of his Faith, That in the Infancy of the World, Men were Form'd of the Prolifick Slime of the Earth, Impreg∣nated by the Vigorous Warmth of the Sun, and that all other Animals had their Original in the same Manner: But that in Process of Time, the Richness of the Seminal Soyl being exhausted by a continual Spontaneons Produ∣ction of Living Creatures, there was no other Way to perpetuate the Various Kinds of Be∣ings, and multiply the Individuals, but by the Ordinary Method of Generation. For which Reason, Nature seems to have subdi∣vided every Species into Two Sexes.

Hence, this Philosopher concludes, That at First there was no nearer Relation between Man and Man, than there is now betwixt a Lyon and a Sheep, or any other different Kinds of Animals: Saving onely, that as these are distinguish'd by their Forms, into Four-Footed Beasts, Fowls, Fishes, and Creeping

Things; so Men assum'd to themselves, the Character of Rational Creatures: And a Prin∣ciple of Self-Preservation, was the First Ground of a Tacite and Common League be∣tween Men, against the Rest of their Fellow-Animals: Especially against those, which made a more frightful Figure on Earth than we do, and seem'd more Rapacious and In∣clin'd to Mischief; such as Dragons, Tygers, Bears, Lions, &c.

But notwithstanding this General Associa∣tion of our Race, against the more Salvage and Fierce Troops of Beasts; yet one Man still stood upon his Guard against another. And all the Sons of the Earth, endeavour'd to main∣tain the Posts, which Nature had alotted each Man; That is, the Place where he was first Form'd, and drew Breath. But Things cou'd not last long in this State: For, either by Instinct or Reason (call it which you will, says this Author) Men being streightened for want of Fruits, or spurr'd on by some secret Desire of Novelty, soon went out of their Bounds, and encounter'd each other, more by Chance than Design: Whence arose, the First Occasions of Actual War. For, every Stranger, appear'd like an Invader: They Naturally startled and suspected each other. Reciprocal Passions of Choler sprung in their Breasts; and every Man to prevent the Effect of his own Fears and Apprehensions, rush'd on his Neighbour, who was on the same Ground as ready for an Assault as himself. Thus, an Ʋniversal War Commenc'd in the World

which by various Methods of Improvement, was carry'd on by the Succeeding Generations, and continu'd to the Present Times.

As for the Original of Governments, the Particular Time cannot be determin'd; but it may be supposed, That Men Generally find∣ing the Inconvenience of these private Perso∣nal Combats, and by Degrees arriving to grea∣ter Maturity of Experience, form'd them∣selves at First into little Societies and Friend∣ships, or as they dwelt near one another, or as they agreed in some Common Incli∣nations, Principles, and Interests. From which Small Associations, they gradually spread into Larger Communities, living under cer∣tain Laws and Obligations of Mutual Peace, Justice and Assistance toward each other, and of Defence against their Common Enemies: Some living under the Form of a Common-Wealth, Others of a Monarchy; each Body of Men, setting up such a Model, as best suited their own Interests and Necessities. From hence sprung the Distinction of Na∣tions, Kingdoms, and Empires. Thus far the Arabian Philosopher.

But without enquiring into the Truth of his Principles, one wou'd think, that some of these Western Nazarenes were his Disciples. And indeed, all Civil Dissentions, seem to be grounded on the same Maxims: Whilst Men on the least Discontent or Jealousie, lay aside the Obedience they owe to their Sove∣reigns, claiming I know not what Natural Right, to defend themselves against the En∣croachments

and Usurpations of others.

Thus, no sooner was it suppos'd here, that the King intended to recall Cardinal Maza∣rini from his Exile; bu•• the Parliament of Paris, who are secret Friends to the Prince of Conde, publish'd an Arrest against the Car∣dinal, whereby all Persons are forbid to con∣tribute toward the Return of this Minister; and Ordering, That his Library, with all his Moveables, shou'd be sold to raise a Sum of a Hundred and Fifty Thousand Livres, which is promis'd as a Reward to those who shall either take him Prisoner, or kill him. They also Petition'd the Duke of Orleans, to make the utmost Use of his Authority against the Cardinal. Who, thereupon rais'd Conside∣rable Troops, and gave the Command of them to the Duke of Beaufort.

In the mean Time, the Cardinal is not Idle; but with what Forces he has, performs some Considerable Actions, in his own De∣fence. He has taken Prisoner, an Eminent Councellor of Parliament. The Parliament sent a Trumpet to demand his Release. This Messenger was rejected. Whereupon, the Parliament are taking New Methods.

The Prince of Conde has sent a Letter and Request to the Parliament, desiring them to suspend the Execution of the Arrest publish'd against him; since the Time given him to lay down his Arms, was not yet expir'd, and that the Cardinal was returned into the King∣dom, contrary to a Prohibition, sign'd by the, King.

But, notwithstanding all these Traverses, Mazarini is come again to the Court, which is now kept at P••••ctiers; Where he was re∣ceiv'd with Infinite Respect and Caresses, by the King, the Queen, and all his Friends. A∣nimosities daily encrease between the diffe∣rent Parties: Private Grudges are improv'd to Publick Factions: An Universal Peevish∣ness, has possess'd the Hearts of the French Nation: They are alarm'd and offended, at one another's Looks. If a Man smiles too much or too little, in conversing with his Friend, 'tis enough to give him the Character of an Enemy, or at least to render him suspected. So that he who wou'd live peace∣ably here at this Juncture, had need to be well skill'd in all the Secrets of Physiognomy, and make frequent Use of his Looking-Glass; lest any Oblique Cast of his Eye, or Satyrical writhing of his Nose, shou'd be Interpreted for Symptoms of Hidden Malice. For now they'll spy Treason, in every Feature of a Man's Face.

As for me, when I go abroad, I conform to all Companies; yet alter not my Address. I neither play the Ape, nor counterfeit a Sta∣tue: But observing a Medium, I pay a Ci∣vil Respect to all, without being Courtly or Rude: For this Carriage, best Suits with my Circumstances. Hence it is, that no Body suspects the plain, deform'd, blunt, Crook∣back'd Titus of Moldavia, to be what I am really, Mahmut the Slave of the Exalted Port.

Paris, 14th. of the 2d. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER III.

To the Reis Effendi, Principal Se∣cretary of the Ottoman Empire.

THE Prince of Conde's taking up Arms, has more puzzl'd the Counsels of the King of France, and more embarass'd his Af∣fairs, than any Occurrence that has happen'd since the Death of his Father.

I have already inform'd the Kaimacham and others, of all Passages hitherto, relating to these Intestine Broils. Since which they seem to be improv'd into a War, wherein Foreign Nations take a Part. After the Return of Cardinal Mazarini to this Court, the Prince of Conde was driven to great Streights, being compell'd by the swift Marches of the King's Army, to retire to Bourdeaux. Where, con∣sidering that it would not be so much his In∣terest to keep this Place, as to encrease his Forces, he sent Envoys to the King of Spain, and Arch-Duke Leopold in Flanders, to desire their Assistance.

The Former immediately dispatched away Orders for a considerable Body of Men to approach the Confides of Gascoigne where the Prince had a great Interest; And the Lat∣ter lent him Eight Thousand Men, to act on the side of Flanders and towards Paris, as Occasion offer'd.

This is the particular Game of the Spaniards, to take Advantage of the Civil Wars in this Kingdom, that so by assisting the weaker Party, they may balance the Contesting Powers of the Nation, and keep 'em in a perpetual Quarrel: Whilst in the Interim, they gain Ground; recover the Places which the French took from 'em in Time of Do∣mestick Peace, and so pave the Way to New Conquests.

In the mean Time, the Parliament sent Deputies to the King, beseeching him to re∣member his Royal Word, by which he had for ever banish'd Cardinal Mazarini; and represent∣ing to him the Fatal Consequences, which were like to proceed from his Return. But the King, instead of complying with their Requests, caus'd an Edict of Council to be Publish'd, which justify'd his Conduct in this Matter.

He also writ a Letter to the Parliament, full of Complaints, that they had not yet publish'd any Order, to hinder the Entrance of a Foreign Army into the Kingdom. But all signified Nothing, to Men passionately bent, to maintain the Prince of Conde's Quar∣rel against their Sovereign. He has but few trusty Men in that Senate, and they are over∣aw'd by the Rest. Besides, the Duke of Orleans bears a strange Sway both in the Par∣liament and Country.

At the Instigation of the Prince, the Citi∣zens of Orleans shut up their Gates, when they heard the King was coming that Way in

his return to Paris. Yet the Country was open for the Prince of Conde, a Subject: He travell'd up and down the Provinces, to make New Interests, and confirm the Old; leaving the Command of his Army in Gas∣coigne, to his Brother the Prince of Conti.

There have been many Skirmishes and En∣counters, between the King's Forces, and those of the Male-contents; and one fierce Combat, wherein the Prince of Conde defeated the Vanguard of the King's Army, as he was marching to this City. Whereby getting the Start of his Sovereign, he arriv'd here, and was receiv'd in the Parliament, whilst the Monarch was forc'd to lie encamp'd in the Field.

The Prince found a different Reception, according to the various Humours of People. The Greatest Part favour'd him, and he re∣ceiv'd infinite Caresses from the Citizens of Paris: But met with some Opposition from Persons of Higher Rank, and more stedfast Loyalty to the Crown. The Duke of Orleans is his greatest Friend, and one for whom the Parliament have a great Deference: Not so much in Contemplation of his Wit and Po∣licy, as for the Sake of his near Relation to the Crown; he being Ʋncle to the present King: Whereby he has a Right to assume more Au∣thority than others, in regulating the Disor∣ders of the Court; among which, the great∣est is esteem'd, that of Cardinal Mazari∣ni's Return.

In a Word, both Parties serve themselves of those who have the greatest Interest, and are most likely to compose the Quarrel. The Exil'd Queen of England, and her Son, who have taken Sanctuary in this Kingdom from the Persecutions of their Own Subjects, make it their Business, to mediate between the Court-Party, and the Faction of the Prin∣ces.

The Prince of Conde also, sent Deputies to the King to represent to him, That the only Means to give Quiet to the State, was to ba∣nish the Cardinal-Minister; And as they were delivering their Address, Mazarini came in; at the Sight of whom, they aggravated their Charge, and said to his Face, That he was the Cause of all the EVILS, which the Kingdom suffer'd. The Cardinal Interrup∣ting them, turn'd to the King, and said, Sir, It will not be Just, that so Flourishing a Kingdom, and, to whose Grandeur I have con∣tributed all that lay in my Power, should ruin it self for my Sake: Therefore I humbly entreat your Majesty to grant, that I may return to my own Country, or whithersoever my Fortune shall call me. No, no, reply'd the Queen (not without some Passion) This cannot be grant∣ed; The King had never more need of your Counsels, than at this Juncture. We cannot consent, that so Serviceable a Man should be Banish'd, only to humour his E∣nemies. Therefore, let us hear no more of that.

The Deputies perceiving nothing of Hopes, return'd to Paris. Then the Parliament de∣puted others to go to the King, and Remon∣strate the Deplorable Crate of the Realm. This was done a few Days agoe.

In the mean Time, we have been alarm'd here in this City, with daily Insurrections of the Multitude. The Occasion was, some private Orders which the Duke of Orleans had given to the Provost of the Merchants, rela∣ting to his Charge, and the Welfare of the City. This being misunderstood by the Peo∣ple, who have not the Sence to distinguish the Good Offices of their Governours from In∣juries, put 'em all into a Tumult. They as∣saulted the Provost in his Coach, as he was passing the Streets: And had he not escaped into an Apothecary's Shop, they wou'd per∣haps in their Fury, have torn him in Pieces; For so they serv'd his Coach, as an after. Re∣venge.

I am weary of beholding the Malicious Quar∣rels of these Infidels. But when I consider, that their Discords will be Instrumental to the Future Conquests of the True Believers, I am Patient and Resign'd.

However, 'tis one Comfort to me in this Thorny Station, that one Time or other, in∣stead of the perpetual jangling of Bells in Paris, I may again have the Happiness, to hear the Muezins cry on the Minarets in Constan∣tinople, There is but One God, and Mahomet his Prophet. Or, if I shall not live to enjoy this Wish; yet, in the Invisible State, I

shall hear the same Cry, and shall be past Doubt of those Things, whereof I have no Certainty in this Life.

Paris, 29th. of the 4th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER IV.

To Cara Hali, Physician to the Grand Signior.

THE Christians seem to have too proud an Opinion of themselves, and set a grea∣ter Value on Humane Nature than suits with Reason. They assert, That all Things were made for Man, and style him Lord of his Fellow-Creatures; as if God had given him an Absolute Dominion over the Rest of his Works, especially over the Animal-Generati∣ons; and that all the Birds of the Air, Beasts of the Earth, and Fish of the Sea, were Created onely to serve his Appetite and other Necessi∣ties of Life. I remember a Letter I formerly sent to thee, wherein I discours'd of the Car∣tesian Philosophers, and their Contempt of the Beasts, in denying them Souls, or the Ʋse of Reason.

Give me leave to entertain thee now, and divert my self with some farther Remarks on this Subject. 'Tis a Refuge from Melancholy,

when I can thus freely discover my Thoughts to a Friend, who I know will not be Partial to the Truth.

I have been long an Advocate for the Brutes, and have endeavour'd both to abstain from injuring them my self, and to inculcate this Fundamental Point of Justice to others. This is owing to the Example and Philosophy of Mahummed, the Eremite in Arabia, that Light and Glory of Religious Men. And were it not that my Humour is to be doubtful in all Things, the Influence of his Conversation would make me a profess'd Pythagorean, a Disciple of the Indian Brachmans, a Champi∣on for the Transmigration of Souls.

The last Letter save one I writ to that Solitary, was upon this Subject: Such an one as wou'd divert him in his Cave. It contain'd an Ac∣count of the Primitive Manner of Life pra∣ctis'd by the Ancients, a Narrative of the Golden Age, a History of Human Innocence, and the Steps which Men first took, to use Violence and Cruelty to their Fellow-Creatures. Now I will present thee with some Additio∣nal Observations, some Remnants of Anti∣quated Truth, glean'd from Philosophers and Historians, and winnow'd from the Chaff of Error and Superstition.

Who wou'd not believe the Beasts to be en∣du'd with Reason, when he beholds them perform all the Actions of Rational Creatures, with more Caution, tho' less Pride than Men? They are more Provident than We, and much more subtile in avoiding any Affliction or

Danger. Witness Thales the Philosopher's Mule, which he often employ'd to carry Salt to a certain Market; but the Cunning Beast finding herself over-loaded, when she was passing through a River lay down, whereby the Water penetrating into the Sacks of Salt, melted it away and lightned her Burden. And this was her Constant Practice; till the Philosopher perceiving himself thus outwitted by his Beast, was resolv'd to circumvent her another way. Wherefore, instead of Salt he loaded her with Wool, which he knew would grow heavier by being Wet. But the wary Mule, sensible of the Difference of her Bur∣den, wou'd couch no more in the Water; but seeing no other Remedy, went forward on her Journey.

Who will not admire the Wisdom of the Fox in Cold Countreys, which the Inhabitants use as a Guide when they would pass over a∣ny Frozen Lake or River. For this Creature going before them, lays her Ears close down to the Ice, and listens to try if she can hear any Motion or Noise of the Water running underneath: Which if she does, she will not venture on the Ice; but if all be still, then by a Logical Deduction she concludes, The Ice is thick enough to bear Passengers; and so she leads the Way, whilst the Men fol∣low.

When a Dog is hunting in the thick Woods, and by chance comes to a Place where Three Paths meet, he first Scents the One, then the Other: And perceiving that the Game is not

gone by any of those Two Ways; he throws himself swiftly forward in the Third, without such a particular Application of his Nose. Which is an evident Argument, that he makes use of the like Case we our Selves should do.

And now I have mention'd this Creature, I cannot forbear celebrating their Virtue and Fidelity: Whereof we have daily Experience; and there are many pleasant Examples, re∣corded by grave Historians.

Such is that of Hircanus, a Dog belonging to Lysimachus, who would never depart from the Body of his dead Master, but following it to the Funeral Pile, leapt into the Fire, and was burned for Company.

But the Gratitude of a Lyon to a certain Slave in Rome, is beyond all Parallel. This Slave was one of those, who were appointed to combat with Wild Beasts in the Amphitheatre, according to the Custom of the Ancient Ro∣mans, in the Publick Shews which were exhi∣bited to the People. As soon as the Lyon was let loose in the Pavement, he ran furiously at the Slave, but coming nearer, he stop'd on a sudden, as one astonished: Then he came gently toward the Slave, fawning upon him, and licking his Hand, which caus'd all the People to give a Shout. The Emperour being present, and taking Notice of the seeming Friendship and Acquaintance that was be∣tween the Slave and the Lyon, sent for the Slave, and enquired the Occasion of so strange an Accident. To whom the Slave made the following Relation:

My Name, said he, is Andredus, and I am Slave to a certain Proconsul, who ha∣ving determined to Kill me, I made my Escape, and hid my self in a Cave: Where I had not lain long, before this Lyon, which you now see, came in, being very lame of one Foot. As soon as he spy'd me, he came limping toward me, and stretch'd forth the Paw that was Wounded, as tho' he begg'd of me to ease him. Affrighted as I was, I took his Paw in my Hand, and pull'd out a great ragged Thorn, which stuck fast in it. Then I wash'd the Wound with my own Water, whilst he lay very patiently till I throughly dress'd it. The Ease he found by my Application, made him fall a∣sleep; and when he wak'd, he lick'd my Hands, and shew'd other Signs of Affection and Gratitude. I liv'd with him thus, Three Years in that Cave, and every Day he brought me a Share of his Prey, on which I su∣stain'd my Self. But at Length Tyr'd with this Manner of Life, I took my Opportu∣nity, when he was gone abroad, to make my Escape. I wander'd up and down Three days, when a Company of Soldiers meeting with me, and knowing to whom I belong'd, took me and brought me hither to my Old Master, who has Condemn'd me to this Cruel Death. But it seems, Fortune so or∣der'd it, that this Lyon should be taken a∣bout the same Time, and appointed to be my Executioner this Day. Yet you see, he refuses to perform his Office, out of Grati∣tude

to me for my former Kindness.

The Emperour astonish'd and pleas'd at this Passage, gave the Slave his Life and Freedom, bestowing also the Lyon on him, which brought him in a Constant Livelyhood, by shewing him to all People; who having heard of this Wonderful Accident, were desi∣rous to see both the Lyon and his Tenant: For so they styl'd the Slave; and some call'd him, the Lyons Physician.

I should think I had said enough already to tire thy Patience, and make thee forswear reading my Letters for the future, were I not well acquainted with thy Genius, and know that thou delightest in Relations of this Nature, being no Enemy to the harmless Brutes.

Whatever thy Sentiments are towards these, I dare be sure, thou art my Friend, and wilt bear with my Importunity, when I strive to convince all Men, and confirm my self in this Truth, That the Wild Beasts are not void of Reason and Moral Vertue.

Paris, 20th. of the 7th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER V.

To the Captain Bassa.

IN the Name of God, Superlatively Indul∣gent and Benign, Lord of Armies which cannot be Numbred, Conservator of the Empire founded on his Own Ʋnity; Praise be to him, that has neither Beginning, nor End! What is the Reason, that we are always Bassl'd by the Infidels? Every Year our August Emperour sends out mighty Armies by Land, and our Fleets by Sea are term'd INVINCIBLE, yet they are still overcome by the Christians. Where the Fault lies, is best known to thee, and the Generals to whom the Command of all is committed.

My Spirit is disquieted about these Things, and I am uneasy by Day, neither does the Night accord me any Repose. This hot Weather, I go up to the Terrass of my House at the Hour of Sleep, thinking that the Cool∣ness of the Air would incline me to Rest; but I can find none. I turn my self on the Leads to the Right-Hand and to the Left, yet all Postures are alike. Sleep has abandon'd my Eyes. My Zeal for the Empire of the Faith∣ful will consume me.

One Night I made Solemn Preparations to welcome the First Appearance of the Moon, after the Manner of my Countrymen. I

sprinkl'd Water on the Floor of the Terrass, and with a New Besom swept away all Ʋn∣cleanness: I fill'd a Lamp with the most pre∣cious Oyl I could get in Paris, which having lighted at the going down of the Sun, I plac'd directly on that Part which is nearest to Meccha. Then I fell on my Face, and pray'd the Eternal Source of Lights,

That at the Moment, when the Moon first Ascended our Horizen, an Intellectual Splendor might shine in my Breast: That I might there, as in a Mirror, behold the Future Fate of the Mussulmans, and the Events, which as yet, were hid in the Dark Womb of Possi∣bility.

My Petition was granted: The Night was in her Shady Course; the Stars on their Watch; and Time, as from a Limbeck, destill'd the Si∣lent Minutes, till the Moment wherein the Neighbour-Planet, first peep'd on the ••ops of Mountains. At that Instant I saw, and heard Things (or at least I thought so) which I never so much as dreamt of before, neither can I remember the Thousandth Part.

Believe me, Supreme Commander of the Marine, I do not boast, or Joy in this. For, I think there can be no greater Affliction, than to be once made Partaker of such a Bliss, and then to lose it, almost as soon as gain'd. Yet there are some Footsteps of the Vision re∣maining on my Memory.

Methinks I beheld Armies of Mussulmans (for I thought 'em to be such by their Tur∣bants) making several Descents on the

Shores of Italy: Methought I saw them prostrate themselves on the Ground, and after a considerable Space of Silence, the Air eccho'd with the Sound of Allah, Allah, much like the Noise of great Cascades, or Falls of Water.

Then they seem'd to disperse themselves all over the Countrey in divers Bodies. The Inhabitants of Rome, appear'd all in a great Consternation. The Chief Mufti of that Place, went forthwith into the Streets, fol∣low'd by his Cardinals, and Dervises, ac∣companied by an Innumerable Multitude of People. They carried their Gods of Gold and Silver along with them; and being ap∣parell'd with Garments of coarse Hair, they sprinkled Ashes on their Foreheads, in To∣ken of their Humility, and to pacify the Indignation that was kindled against them.

But, Heaven was deaf to their Clamo∣rous Vows, neither could all the Pomp of their Superstitious Solemnity, dazle the Eyes which are a Thousand Times brighter than the Sun, penetrating into the darkest Corners of the Heart. In a word, these Infidels seem'd a while after to be in a great Confusion and Hurry, running this Way and that Way to hide their Goods, and save themselves from the Victorious Strangers. In fine, I saw the Crosses taken down from the Mi∣narets of the Mosques in Rome, and Cre∣scents advanc'd in their place.

I do not relate this, as if I gave Credit to Visions and Trances: Perhaps all this might be but a Waking Dream. Yet such Visionary En∣tertainments, happen of Course to our Coun∣trymen, when they observe the foresaid Cere∣monies. But I tell thee, I am not asleep at this Moment; and yet it appears to me a very Probable Undertaking, for the Mussulmans to fit out a Mighty Fleet, which having a suf∣ficient Army of Land-Men aboard, might de∣liver them with little or no Opposition, on some of the Wealthy Shores of Italy: And if it is not thought worth the Labour to make New Conquests, which would be difficult to maintain; yet at least our Soldiers by plunde∣ring only the Rich Temples and Convents of the Nazarenes, might carry away Inestima∣ble Treasures.

I wrote formerly to one of thy Predecessors about the same Matter, proposing the Sur∣prize of Loretto, as a very easy Attempt, and that the Booty wou'd infinitely surpass the Expence and Trouble: But Mahmut's Ad∣vices are never regarded, till 'tis too late. We squander away Thousands of Men, and Mil∣lions of Money to purchase little insignificant Islands, which are defended indeed with seem∣ing Vigour by the Christians; but 'tis rather to amuse us, than out of any real Value they have for those Places.

It is only a Maxim of Western Policy, thus to give Diversion to the Arms which are de∣stin'd to subdue All Nations. They sport themselves, to see the Flower of the Eastern

Militia consum'd in their Trenches, before the Impregnable Fortress of Candia, which if won will not quit the Cost of so tedious a Siege. Whereas, in half that Time, our Invincible Forces might have over-run all Italy.

Thou wilt not think this an Impractica∣ble Enterprize, when thou shalt consider the Divisions of the Italian Princes, the Univer∣sal Security and Voluptuousness of the Inha∣bitants, and yet the Oppressions and Tyran∣ny they live under, being fleec'd and poll'd of all their Substance, to maintain the Gran∣deur of their Governors, and the Pride of the Clergy; which renders 'em equally disgusted, at their present Slavish Manner of Life, and desirous of a Change. It is not hard to sur∣mise after all this, that a Conquest wou'd be easy to the Victorious Mussulmans; or at least such Depredations, as would mightily enrich them.

The most proper News that I can send thee, is of a Combat lately fought at Sea, between the English and the Dutch. The Generals on both Sides, are said to be brave Men. He of Britain is call'd Blake, the Other's Name is Trump. Which had the best on't, is not certainly known. Men speak as they are by∣ass'd. Yet the Dutch lost Two Ships in this Engagement, tho' their Fleet was far more Numerous than that of the English.

If I were worthy to advise my Superiours, I would propose some Notable Exploit by Land; for God has given the Earth to

the True Believers, but the Sea to the Christians.

Paris, 14th. of the 6th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER VI.

To the Kiaya Bey, or Lieutenant Ge∣neral of the Janizaries.

I HAD once a great Intimacy with Cassim Hali, the brave Aga, who now is no more on Earth. That Honest Old General, merited all Men's Love: Follow thou his Example, and in Time his Post will fall to thy Lot. Thou art already in the last Advance to it; let no Airy Vice make thee Giddy, and give thee a Fall. 'Tis a Common Aphorism, That Health, long Life, and Honour descend from Above. But if they do, I tell thee, 'tis like the Rain, which only then does good, when it penetrates the Earth, and moistens to the Root. An Humble Heart, is like a kindly Mold, receiving the Dews of Heaven with Advantage and Profit: but Pride is a Rock, which spatters away the Blessings showr'd down on it.

Perhaps thou wilt be affronted at my blunt Way of Writing. Yet assure thy self, I ho∣nour thee more than a Thousand Flatterers.

I am not sent hither to study Nice Expressi∣ons, but to serve ••he Grand Signior with In∣tegrity. Besides, I know thou hast not been accustom'd to the soft Entertainments of La∣dies Chambers, but the Rough Dialect of War. It is thy Honour to be unacquainted with the Delicacies of Discourse, Diet, or Dressing; Things only fit to enervate a Man's Courage, and change his Heart into that of a Woman. Thou know'st how to handle the Curiass and Lance, the Sabre and Shield, the Bow and Gun; and art perfectly vers'd, in all the Mi∣litary Terms of Art. A Discourse of Sieges and Campaigns, storming of Forts, and plun∣dering of Camps, is more agreeable to thee, than all Tully's Oratory, or the finest Strains of the Persian Poets. I am therefore confident, thou wilt not take it ill, that I address to thee in a Style void of Artifice, yet full of Real Respect and Love.

If I counsel thee, 'tis for thy Good; and I am commanded to express my Sentiments with Freedom. Besides, I have a Personal Privilege to advise thee, the Right of a Friend: Which thou wilt acknowledge, when I tell thee, that I once had the Happiness to save thy Life, as we travell'd together in Arabia.

Thou canst not but remember that Passage, and how that in heat of Youthful Blood, thou had'st provok'd an Emir to kill thee in the Sight of the whole Caravan, had not I fallen at his Feet, and told him, Thou wert a Stranger to the Customs of the Country.

Believe me, I do not reproach thee with this, but only make Use of it, as an Argu∣ment to convince thee, That the same Mo∣tive which prompted me 〈◊〉〈◊〉 interpose my self at that Time, between thee and Certain Death, induces me now to give thee Warn∣ing of a Precipice, of which thou art in Dan∣ger. Every one gives thee the Character of a brave Man, and no Body dislikes thee the Worse, for being of an Air as Fierce as a Tartar. All this becomes a Man of the Sword; And they say, thou dost every Thing with a Martial Grace.

But I am told likewise, that thou art Guil∣ty of Avarice: and that for the Lucre of Presents, thou enrollest Men in the List of the Janizaries, who are not fit to serve in the Wars; such as are House-keepers, Persons entangl'd with VVives and Children, with Debts and other Encumbrances: That they only appear on certain Days in the Military Habit, and then return to their Domestick Business, without ever regarding the Discipline of the Royal Chambers, or thinking them∣selves oblig'd to learn the Art of War: That thou in the mean Time takest their Pay, and many Additional Bribes, whilst they are only contented with the Title and Privilege of a Ja∣nizary, to shelter themselves from Justice, and protect them in their Rapine and Villanies.

I tell thee, shou'd this be known and prov'd against thee, it wou'd be to thy Ruine. But I hope better Things, and that these are only the Surmizes of thy Enemies. For, thou

knowest, that none ought to be admitted into that Ancient Order, but the Tributary Sons of the Nazarenes; who being in their Infancy listed in ••he College, know neither Father nor Patron, save the Grand Signior, who is the Common Parent and Protector of the Osman Empire. On his Service is all their Zeal and Courage fix'd, having no private Byass, no partial Inclinations, to warp them from the Fidelity they owe their Great Ma∣ster. They are devoted to Indefatigable Toils and Hardship, during their whole Life.

This was the First Institution of the Jani∣zaries, though through the Corruption of the Times, they have much degenerated from their Primitive Rules. But thou, who art honour'd with an High Command, wilt signa∣lize thy Vertue and Loyalty, in reforming these Abuses, and in not suffering the College of Men of War, to become a Receptacle of Rogues and Drones.

Such Disorders as these, have promoted the Intestine Broils of this Kingdom. I say not, that they are the Original Causes: Yet 'tis a great Diminution of Sovereign Majesty, when a King shall find his Own Armies fight∣ing against him, as they do at present here in France. How many Mutinies and Rebel∣lions have been rais'd by the licentious Jani∣zaries at Constantinople: When laying aside all Respect and Duty, they have not spar'd to violate the Seraglio it self; but entring within those Sacred Walls with Bands of Arm'd Men, have turn'd all things Topsy-Turvey, seiz'd on

the Imperial Treasure, chang'd the Domestick Officers of their Sovereign, and sometimes chas'd him from his O••••n Palace, to the Hazard, if not to the Los•• of his Life?

If thou would'st know what they are do∣ing here in France, the Men of Arms are cutting one anothers Throats, whilst the Rabble are burning their Neighbours out of their Houses.

Two Days agoe, the Multitude assembled in the Streets, and having beset a certain Pa∣lace in this City, they put Fire to it, resol∣ving to kill all that should attempt to make their Escape out of the Flames. A Per∣son of Quality coming out to pacify them, fell a Victim to their unbridl'd Rage: And had not the Duke of Beaufort (of whom I have often made mention in my Letters) in∣terpos'd his Authority, they had murder'd all that were within those suspected Walls.

Sometime before this, the Mareschal Tu∣renne took a Place of Strength from the Prince of Conde; who in Lieu of it took St. Denis, a Town not far from Paris, wherein there is a Temple, which the French say, is the Rich∣est in Europe. But they are laught at by the Italians, who boast of far Richer Mosques in Venice, Milan, Naples, and Rome.

The Duke of Lorain plays fast and loose with the Prince of Conde. He enter'd the Kingdom with an Army, pretending to espouse the Prince's Quarrel, but was quickly bought off by the Queen, so that he is now gone to Flanders again; by this Action leaving a

Free Passage to the King's Army under Mar∣shal Turenne, to ••ange whither they please, which were before block'd up by his For∣ces.

Four Days agoe there was a Bloody En∣counter, between the Troops of the Prince, and those of Marshal Turenne, in one of the Suburbs of Paris. Neither cou'd boast of the Victory, though the Battel lasted Five Hours. But at length, the Prince of Conde's Troops retir'd into the City, being frighten'd with the Main Body of the King's Army, which appear'd on the Neighbouring Hills.

Illustrious Janizary, fortify thy Heart with all the Necessary Retrenchments of He∣roick Vertue: And rather than Surrender to Temptations of Vice on dishonourable Terms, run the Hazard of a Storm.

Paris, 6th. of the 7th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER VII.

To Nathan Ben Saddi, a Jew at Vienna.

WE are all together by the Ears in this Kingdom; killing, burning and destroying one another: Whilst you in Ger∣many enjoy Abundance of Peace. The Occa∣sion of our Quarrels here, is, the Return of Cardinal Mazarini, against whom the Duke of Orleans and Prince of Conde are Inveterate Enemies. The Former is declar'd Lieutenant-General of the Kingdom, by the Parliament of Paris; Who give it out, That the King is Cardinal Mazarini's Prisoner. They have al∣so bestow'd the Command of all the Forces, under the Authority of the said Duke, on the Prince of Conde.

Their Principal and only Pretence is, the Removal of the Cardinal from the King and his Councils. What will be the Issue, Time will demonstrate.

There has been a Duel lately fought, be∣tween the Dukes of Beaufort and Nemours, Two Eminent Friends to the Prince of Conde.

The King going to a Town call'd Pontoise, some Leagues from Paris, drew a great many Counsellors and Presidents of Parliament thi∣ther, Men who are Loyal and Stedfast to his Cause. This encourag'd the King to put forth a

Declaration, commanding the Parliament to meet at Pontoise. They, on the other Side, publish'd a•• Arrest against this De∣claration. Thus t••ey continue pickeering one at another.

But here is News arriv'd from Cologne, which surprizes People very much. I know not the true Ground of their Astonishment: but the Priests seem to be Mad for Joy. All that I can hear about it is, The Restauration of the Roman Catholick Religion in that Pro∣vince, which is a Novelty unexpected; espe∣cially the Ecclesiastick Grandeur, which it seems, has been laid aside above these Hundred Years. I tell thee only as I am inform'd my self: It lies in thy Power to certify me of the Truth of Matters.

They say also, That the famous General John de Werdt is dead: As likewise the Arch-Bishop of Treves. It is added, that Franken∣dal is surrendred to the Elector of Heidel∣berg, according to the late Agreement at Munster; And that there is a Diet begun at Ratisbon.

I desire thee to inform me of all these Things particularly, and of whatsoever else occurs in the Court where thou residest.

As to Matters of Religion, be not over-sedulous: Piety is compriz'd in a Few Rules. Yet, the Soul of Man is Naturally Inqui∣sitive, and would fain be acquainted with All Things. I advise thee to cast thy Eyes fre∣quently on the Earth that is under thy Feet; survey the Groves and Fields; the Moun∣tains

and Valleys, Rocks and Rivers. Then look up to the Heavens, and take a sted∣fast View of the Stars: C••nsider the Beau∣ty and Order of All thing•• And after this, tell me, if thou canst imagine, That the Great and Immense Creator of this Wonderful Fabrick, Form'd all the Nations of the Earth, to Damn 'em Eternally, save only those of Your Race.

Son of Israel, I wish thee heartily A∣dieu.

Paris, 11th. of the 8th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER VIII.

To the Kaimacham.

THE Parisians seem to be all in a Dream or Trance. They know not what they say or do, or at least they care not. Such is the Immense Joy, for the Return of the King to this City. The Steps to this suddain Change, were the Retiring of Cardinal Mazarini from the Court. Which was seconded with a Decla∣ration of Indemnity, or a General Pardon for all that had pass'd during these Troubles, save some particular Reserves of Sacriledge, Fires, and such like. This work'd strangely on the

Inhabitants of Paris. But the Prince of Conde not finding any Satisfaction, as to his own Person, in his Amnesty, call'd in the Duke of Lorrai••'s Army to his Assistance. These reduc'd the King's Forces to so great a Streight and Extremity, that the Parliament being sensible of the Advantage, made use of it, and sent Deputies to the King, be∣seeching him to continue in the same good Resolution he had taken before this Misfor∣tune.

The Monarch suffer'd himself to be over∣come, by a Violence mix'd with so much Submission, and yielded to their Requests. Immediately, the Hearts of the Prince of Conde's Friends grew cold, and began to change their Sentiments. In a word, they were resolv'd to desert their New Master, and cast themselves at the Feet of their Law∣ful Sovereign. The Grandees, who had most affected Conde's Interest, laid down their Offices. The Foreign Armies of Spaniards and Lorrainers, retir'd out of the King∣dom. The Citizens of Paris sent a Deputa∣tion consisting of Sixty Six Persons of Ho∣nour, to invite the King to this City, and as∣sure him of their Future Allegiance. All the Officers of the Militia, did the like. The King being satisfy'd with the timely Pe∣nitence of his Subjects, and having command∣ed some Preparatory Alterations in Places of Trust, enter'd this City on the Twenty First of the last Moon, with all the Joy and Ac∣clamation which cou'd express the Love of

his People. and the Regret they had abour'd under, during his Absence••

Thou seest, Illustrious Minister, that tho' by the Artifices of a Fac••••on, a King may be render'd odious to his Subjects, be banish'd from his Palace, and have the Gates of his Ci∣ties shut against him, as befell to this King: Yet the Inconveniences they feel in taking up Arms against him, sooner or later bring 'em to Repentance; and they are glad to court his Return, whom but a while agoe they forc'd a∣way by their Undutifulness, to gratify the Ambition of a bold Young Prince of the Blood, who promis'd, and ventur'd all. Things in Hopes of a Crown. For, it cannot be sup∣pos'd, That the Prince of Conde had less Aims, when he first began this War; tho' his Pre∣tences were specious, only to remove Cardinal Mazarini, and other evil Ministers from the King, and to protect the French, from the Ma∣chinations of Spanish and Italian Counsels: Whilst it is evident, that all along he and his Party, have been supported by the King of Spain in their Rebellion. One wou'd won∣der, how the French, a Sensible and Witty Nation, could be thus impos'd upon. But the Arabian Proverb says, There are none so blind, as those that willfully shut their Eyes.

Yet, whatever Stupidity reigns among the Franks, methinks Nothing but Light and Reason ought to appear in the Actions of the Mussulmans. I am confounded, to hear of the Rebellions in Syria and Egypt. Will they never give Rest to the Banner of the

Prophet? Must the Supreme Minister, be ever employ'd in proclaiming the Nesiraum? What offence has been given to the Bassa of Damascus, or 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him of Caire?

Sage President of the Imperial City, I am abash'd before the Infidels, when I hear these Tragical Reports out of the East.

But what can be expected, when the Manners of the Faithful are quite estrang'd from those of their Fathers. The Mussul∣mans almost out-do the Franks in Vice and Debauchery.

When thou readest this, draw thy Cyme∣tar, and make a Scabbard of the next Man, who mutters a Word against 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Law∣ful Sovereign.

Paris, 2d. of the 10th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER IX.

To Dgnet Oglou.

I Tell thee, I am neither Melancholy nor Merry; but in a kind of a Mungrel Hu∣mour between both. I am half Democritus, and t'other half Heraclitus; being Equally dispos'd to Laugh and Weep, at the Vanity of All Things here below. That Thought touches me sensibly, yet not enough to carry me into Extreams. The Misery and Happi∣ness of the Whole Life of Mortals, are Themes ••carce worth a Passion. Whatever we endure as an Evil, or possess as a Good, are both so short, that as the one need not sink us to an Excess of Grief, so neither does the o∣ther deserve a Paroxysm of Joy. A Sigh or a Tear, are enough for the First; and a Smile is too much for the Last. My Mind at pre∣sent is an Equilibrium.

What signifies the Birth of the Greatest Monarch, or that he can boast of a Long De∣scent of Kings, his Progenitors? He is born to Labour and Trouble, as well as other Men; and all the Charming Pleasures that attend a Crown, are scarce sufficient to recompence his Cares and Fatigues, his Hazards and Toils, and the Perpetual Risques he runs both in Peace and War.

If from the Cradle he make an Early Step to a Throne, 'tis but a Mock-Honour, to be Crown'd with a Wreath of Briars, squeez'd and press'd into h•••• tender Temples, by the deceitful Hands of his Guardians and Mini∣sters, who strive only to lay the Foundation of their own Honour in his Ruine, by im∣proving the Time of his Minority, and ma∣king Oppression Chymical; that during their present Authority, they may extract the Life and Elixir of his Subjects Wealth, and hoard it in their own Coffers, leaving only the Lees to him, when he comes of Age, and these ge∣nerally compounded with the Ill-will of his People. I wish the Case prove not the same in our Present Sovereign, Sultan Mahomet; who, thou know'st, was lifted to his Father's Throne before his Time, and by Methods which cannot be justify'd. It was the Mufti's Plot, who is the Oracle of the Law; and so the Mussulmans acquiesc'd. But mark the End. Such Treasons seldom escape unpunish'd. Tho' Sultan-Ibrahim was Depos'd and Imprison'd, (not to mention that which grates the Ears of any Loyal Ottoman:) Tho' his Eldest Son be plac'd on his Throne, to serve the Ends of a Faction: Yet a Younger than he, may live to revenge the Wrongs that were done to his Father, and restore the Empire of the Faith∣ful to its Pristine Grandeur. There are now a∣bove Three Years elaps'd, since the change of Affairs at the Seraglio. In the mean time, dost thou not observe the Discontents of the People? Is there not a General Coldness and

Neutrality to be discern'd in the Conversation of those, who at first were most forward to approve the Mufti's Proceedings? Men begin every where to reflect o•• the Present Revolu∣tion, and its Fatal Consequences. The Ve∣netian-War, they say, has quite impoverish'd the Empire. Decay of Trade, Want of Mo∣ney, and a Thousand other Things, are the daily Complaints in Constantinople: This I am told from very good Hands, Men of seve∣ral Nations, Merchants who Trade ir that Ci∣ty, Persons altogether unbyass'd. They, as Strangers, have been Inquisitive, during their Residence there, into the Humours of Peo∣ple, to find how the Mussulmans stand affe∣cted to the Present State of the Ottoman Af∣fairs. I, who approve not the Presumption of those Infidels, yet make Use of it to inform my self of several Material Passages, which I cou'd not otherwise learn, at this Distance from the August Port.

They tell me, the Soldiers murmur that so many Thousands of Men have been sacrific'd in Candia, and Dalmatia; Whilst what they gain in the Island, they lose on the Continent: For, it seems, the Venetians are still too hard for us one Way or other. They grumble al∣so for Want of their due Pay, and that they have not Bread enough to keep 'em from starving. A certain Greek assur'd me, he had heard several of the Spahi's swear solemnly, That it was agreed amongst them, not to go into Dalmatia, the next Campaign. But this I took as a Strain of the Grecian's Natural

Faculty, who, thou know'st, are much given to Romancing. However, I hear enough both from them and other Travellers, of East and West, to ••onvince me, That some of the Grandees 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Imperial City are in a tottering Condition.

All which serves but to confirm my first Discourse, That hardly any Thing on Earth is worth a Thought, since all Things are of so short Duration.

In a Word, the World seems to be a Gar∣den intermingled with Roses and Weeds. The First are so close encompass'd with Thorns, that a Man cannot gather 'em without wounding himself: And if there be more Ease in cropping the Latter, yet they are unwholesome and stink; putting a Man to as frequent Purifications, as the Times he touches 'em.

Let thou and I, Dear Gnet, pass along the Alleys of this Garden, view her Beauties and Deformities with an Even Mind; not putting our selves to the Fatigue of gather∣ing her Flowers, or suffering our selves to be tempted with her softer Pleasures. But let every Thing we see and hear in this Enchanted Ground, serve the Ends of our Contemplation, being stedfastly mindful of this Truth, That all those Things which appear so Gay and full of Charms, are Nothing but mere Empty Idea's and Fleet∣ing Shadows, of that Substantial and Per∣manent Pleasure, which has her Residence only in Paradise.

Thou may'st tell the Kaimacham, our Friend, that now the King of France be∣gins to play the Monar••h on the Bottom of his own Wit and Courage, without the Assistance or Counsel of Tutors. He has brought the Parliament to an Absolute Compliance with his Will, having purg'd that Senate of disaffected Members, and ba∣nish'd from the Court the Duke of Orle∣ans, who pretended a Right to Rule his Sovereign. In the mean Time, the Prince of Conde has taken Rethel and St. Mene∣houd, whilst Barcelona is surrendred to the Spaniards. Thus what is gain'd in one Point, is lost in another. Doubtless, there is nothing stable on Earth.

Paris, 8th. of the 11th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER X.

To Melec Amet.

THY Adventure and Miraculous Escape over the Danube, puts me in Mind of a certain French Nobleman of the Prince of Conde's Party, who last Summer, being close∣ly pursu'd by some of the King's Horse, and himself excellently mounted, leap'd Hedges and Ditches to avoid Captivity. At length, they had chas'd him into a Corner of the Land; from whence it was Impossible for him to escape, but by swimming o'er a small Arm of the Sea. What Risques will not a Man run, for the Love of Liberty? This Per∣son, like an over-heated Stagg, perceiving his Hunters close at his Heels, boldly leap'd on Horse-back into the Sea; chusing rather to perish in the Waters, than fall into his Ene∣mies Hands.

None were so hardy, as to follow him through the Uncertain Waves. However, his Horse being of matchless Strength, carry'd him safe over to the Opposite Shore. As soon as he arriv'd at the next Town, where he had many Friends, he related this Wonderful Passage. But instead of cherishing his Horse, for so Faithful and Invaluable a Service, he drew his Sword, and immediately kill'd the Beast that had sav'd his Life: Saying, he did it for the Sake of Fame, being resolv'd, that

his Horse shou'd never p••••form the like Ser∣vice to any other Mortal.

This was an Ungrateful Caprice, and far from the Morality of Sultan Seli••••, the Son of Ba∣jazet, who when his Trusty Horse, Carabu∣luc, had once sav'd his Life by his extraordi∣nary Swiftness; he in Token of his Thank∣fulness, built a Stable on Purpose for him in a Large Enclosure of Meadows, allowing a Pension to a Groom to wait on the Meritorious Beast, and give him his free Delight in all Things, as long as he liv'd; Commanding, that he shou'd never more be forc'd to labour or travel. And to compleat the Happiness of the Beast, he cull'd out some of the Beau∣tifull'st Mares of Arabia to accompany him; charging also, that the Doors of the Stable shou'd be always open, for the Horse to go in or out, and range when and where he pleas'd. This was a Generosity worthy of an Eastern Monarch, whom, as thy Letter in∣forms me, thou hast in Part imitated.

But such is some Men's Ambition, and vain Desire to be talk'd of, that they care not by what barbarous Methods, they accomplish their Aim: It was a Motive of this Nature, which tempted Erostratus to set Fire to the Famous Temple of Ephesus; which had been Two Hundred Years in Building, and was number'd among the Seven Wonders of the World.

This happen'd on the very Night, that A∣lexander the Great was born. And the Vil∣lain being ask'd, Why he committed so de∣structive

a Sacrilege; answer'd, That it was to acquire an Immort••l Fame by so stupendous a Wickedness, since he ••ou'd not hope to be Recor∣ded for his Vertue.

Plutarch mentions a Jest, that was made on this Destruction of Diana's Temple. For it was common in every Bodies Mouth, That the Goddess being call'd that Night to the Labour of Olympias, the Mother of Alexan∣der, cou'd not be present at Home to save her House from Burning. For the Gentiles believed, that Diana (whom they also call'd Lucina) was Invisibly assistant at the Birth of Children.

However, the Priests made no Jest on't; but ran up and down howling and making Gashes in their Flesh, presaging that Fate was that Day busied, in signing the Decree of Asia's Ruine. This is certain, That that very Night, the Man was born, who was destin'd to subdue all Asia, and on the Ruines of the Persian Empire, raise the Monar∣chy of the Macedonians. However, the Villain who burnt the Temple, had not his Desire. For it was Decreed throughout all Asia, That his Name shou'd never be men∣tion'd in History, or any Publick Writings.

It is Recorded of a certain Governour of a City in Italy, That being on the Top of an high Tower with only the Pope, the German Emperour, and an Ambassador from Venice in his Company, he was tempted to throw the Two former over the Battlements, as they were taking a Survey of the City: Which he

might have easily done, for they were both Aged, and Incapable of re••••sting his Strength. This Passage he confess'd ••o his Ghostly Fa∣ther: And being ask'd, What Induc'd him to think of such a Horrid Treason? He answer'd, That it might be said, He did a Thing which never was done before, nor in all Probability wou'd ever be done again: Since no Prince having heard such a Story, wou'd ever venture himself into the same Danger, without a suffi∣cient Guard of his own. But however, he had not Resolution enough to go through with his Project.

I hear thou art like to acquire Fame by other Methods than these, being in a fair Way, to rise by thy Vertues, to some Considerable Em∣ployments in the Empire. For which, I equal∣ly rejoice with thy self.

In the mean Time, 'twill perhaps be obli∣ging, to tell thee some News out of these Parts. Which will make thy Company wel∣come to the Grandees. They love to con∣verse with Men, who can furnish 'em with Intelligence of Foreign Affairs.

The freshest Discourse here is, of the Im∣prisonment of the Cardinal de Retz, who was arrested by the King's Order on the Nine∣teenth of this Moon. What his Crime is, I cannot inform thee, unless it be, that he is an Enemy to Cardinal Mazarini. People generally give him the Character, of a very honest Man. But, thou know'st, Honesty is counted a Vice in the Courts of these Western Princes. The Crafty, are the only Men of

Vertue and Merit among the Infidels.

Thou may'st also report for a Certainty, That the Spania••ds have taken Dunkirk in Flanders, and C••zal in the Dukedom of Man∣tua. This Town, is said to be the Key of all Italy. I cannot tell thee, which is the Lock it belongs to; nor, I believe, they themselves. But, this I observe, That when the King of France sits down before any Place with his Army, whoever has the Key, neither Locks nor Bolts can keep him out long. And 'tis Ten to One, if he do not find an Entrance in∣to this Place again very speedily, when the Spanish King has pleas'd himself for a while, with an Imaginary Possession of it.

I conclude my Letter, just at the Hour when the Old Year expires, according to the Account of the Christians, Wishing thee a Scene of New Felicities.

Paris, 31st. of the 12th. Moon, of the Year 1652.

LETTER XI.

To the same.

HAving the Opportunity of a Day or two more, before the Post goes out of Town, I make use of it to ask thee, Whether there be any Notice taken in your Parts, of a Co∣met newly appearing above the Orb of the Sun? It has not been observ'd here till with∣in these few Nights. And the Astronomers, notwithstanding the Coldness of the Season, (which I assure thee is sharp enough) are ve∣ry busy with their Telescopes, to pry into the Figure of this Meteor, and observe its Mo∣tions. They take great Pains, and endure all the Rigour of the Frost and Snow, in Hopes of making some new Discovery.

The Vulgarlook on it, as a great Prodigy: There are a Thousand Opinions among them about its Consequences: Every Body sets up for a Judicial Astrologer. Nay, the Learn'd them∣selves, and such as are esteem'd Great Philo∣phers, cannot agree in their Judgment con∣cerning it. Some assert, That the Matter of the Heavens is subject to Corruption and Change, and that this Comet is generated af∣ter that Manner: Whilst others hold a Con∣trary Opinion. They are all divided, and dispute hotly in as Ʋnintelligible Terms, as the Languages of America are to us of this Conti∣nent. They amuse one another, and them∣selves,

with far-fetch'd Words: And all this while, for ought I know, the Wisest among 'em may be as much under a Mistake, as those who never study'd such Things. All the In∣struments of the Opticks, are sought out to help their Sight; and yet they may be as much in the Dark, as the Men in Plato's Cave. It is an Article of my Faith, That we Mortals know very little of those far di∣stant Beings. But, these Franks are the most opinionated People in the World; no Man has the Modesty, to allow another as much Right to Reason as himself. Every one sets up for a Dogmatist, and requires the Intel∣lects of all others to be resign'd to his; tho' perhaps, that be only form'd by the Rules of his Parents, the Impressions of his Early Years, the Force of Education, the Fashion of his Country, or by some Notable Accident in his Life: All which, are equally liable to Falshood and Truth. How many Sects were there of the Ancient Philosophers, stiffly defend∣ing their several Opinions? One says, the Heavens are made of Brass; Another, of Iron; a Third, of Smoke. This will have 'em to be Solid, That Fluid: There is no End of their Controversies.

In the mean Time, no Man knows What they are made of, or What is the Figure of the World, Whether Round or Square, or beyond all Dimensions: Whether Matter be Divisi∣ble, or Indivisible in the last Atome. Who can assure me, If there be onely One World, or Whether there may not as well be a Thou∣sand

Millions? Whether the Stars be Opake Bodies as this Earth, and Inhabited, or no? I tell thee again, there is ••o Certainty of these Things. Man's Sences are too weak, his I∣magination too frail, and all his Faculties far too short, to comprehend the Works of the Omnipotent, who alone is Wise and Perfect in Science.

Wilt thou have my Opinion of this Comet? I am apt to think, 'Tis some such Globe of Combustible Matter, as Our Earth appears to be, and perhaps burden'd with as many Sin∣ners: That either by the Course of Nature, or Decree of Destiny, the Enclos'd Fire has broke its Bounds, and spread its Consuming Flames o'er the Surface: Which embodying themselves in the Pyramid of Smoke, arising from so vast a Conflagration, cause that Ap∣pearance which we call the Tail of a Blazing-Star. And, for ought I know, after the same Manner shall our Globe appear to the Inhabitants of those Remote Worlds, at our Day of Judgment.

I am not positive in these Matters, nor will I shut up my Soul from Future Lights: but leaving Things, as I find 'em, full of My∣stery, and double Faces, I will expect no better Fate than that of Socrates, That as I have liv'd, so shall I die in Doubt, onely ho∣ping for Plenary Satisfaction in the Next World.

Paris, the 2d. of the 1st. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XII.

To Pesteli-Hali, his Brother, Master of the Grand Signior's Customs.

NOW thou beginnest to reap the Fruit of thy Travels. May'st thou live to have a Full Harvest. I esteem my self infi∣nitely oblig'd to the Illustrious Bassa, our Countryman, for his particular Friendship in this Business. 'Tis true, thy own Merits were a sufficient Recommendation: But what Light can a Candle give, that is shut up close in a Dark-Lanthorn? So thick was the Veil, which thy own Modesty had drawn o'er the Splendor of the most Accomplish'd Ver∣tues.

Son of my Mother, let not what I have said, pass for the Words of a Flatterer. Thou know'st, I am as free from that Vice, as I am from Envy. 'Tis Affection only guides my Pen, when I tell thee, I heartily rejoice in my Brother's Prosperity; and that the Grand Signior has a Faithful Servant. I hope, that Sovereign of Sovereigns, will in Time find Reasons to acknowledge to the Noble Kerker Hassan, the Good Office he has done him, in presenting such a Slave. Let no Error of thine, baulk my Expectation.

'Twill be an Eternal Honour, to the House and Tribe from which we descend, if by ac∣quitting

thy self fairly in this Post, our Great Master shall think thee worthy of a more Sublime Station. Therefore esteem this on∣ly as a Tryal of thy Fidelity, and how far thou art Capable of serving the Sultan. Be Indu∣strious, but not Affected, in disclosing thy Abilities. Observe a Gradation: For the slowest Steps to Greatness, are the most se∣cure. Aim not to be Rich and Mighty on a sudden. Swift Rises, are often attended with precipitate Falls. If, in other Cases, 'tis commendable to be niggardly of Time, and squeeze every Minute to an Improvement in Vertue; yet thou wilt find it expedient to follow other Maxims, in the Way of growing Great: And that to be Liberal in Years of Patience, will be no Unprofitable Frugality in the Main; since what is soonest got, is generally short in the Possession: And he that mono∣polizes Honours or Wealth, is most Times en∣vy'd to his Ruine.

Nature it self shall convince thee of this, if thou wilt but contemplate her most Obvi∣ous Works. Cast thy Eye on the Oak among the Plants; What Vegetable is more Perma∣nent, or of greater Service to Men? Yet the Tree, of so vast a Bulk, in whose Aged, Hol∣low Trunk, I have seen Sixteen Men sitting round a Table; under whose wide spread Branches, the House of Arom Eb'niel Eben Sherophaim, the Chief Emir of Arabia is built, and stands at this Day; I say, this Tree in its First Original, was not so big as the Thumb of thy Right Hand: And if Natura∣lists

speak Truth, 'twas a Hundred Years a growing to these Dimensions; as many in a Fix'd and Flouri••hing Condition; and that it will not take up a less Time in decaying to its last Rottenness.

They say also, That an Elephant, the Biggest and Strongest of all the Beasts on the Earth, lives Two Hundred Years, and con∣tinues encreasing in its Stature, the greatest Part of that Term. The like they relate of Crocodiles and Dragons.

But not to tire thee with Examples of this Nature, let us consider, that whatsoever is great and durable among Men, whatsoever is Illu∣strious and Excellent, is slow in the Produ∣ction, and makes not hasty Leaps to Matu∣rity. View all the Monarchies that have made so much Noise on Earth, and thou wilt find, that in Proportion to the Time of their Growing Greatness, was the Term of their Duration. How swift was the Rise and Fall of the Persian Empire? Equally precipi∣tate was that of the Macedonians. None could ever boast of so Permanent and Univer∣sal a Sway as the City of Rome, of which it is commonly said, Rome was not built in a Day.

To come nearer Home; How Lasting and perpetually Victorious, is the Sacred Empire of the Mussulmans? Yet it took its First Rise from very small Beginnings, met with fre∣quent Repulses, and has made a slow Pro∣gression to the present Formidable Height of Sovereign Power it now possesses. For, thou

know'st, This is the Thousand'th, Sixtieth and Third Year, since the Holy Flight of the Messenger of God.

What I have said, may be apply'd with Proportion, to Men's Personal Advances in the Honours and Fortunes of this World. Be content therefore with the Seasons wherein Destiny shall think fit to raise thee, and strive not to out-run thy Fate.

All the News I can tell thee is, That Cardi∣nal Mazarini return'd, the 13th. of the last Moon, from his Second Banishment: Which thou mayst report for a Truth, to the Mini∣sters of State.

We are all Exiles here on Earth. God restore us to a Region more Agreeable, and admit us to the Caresses of our Friends in Paradise.

Paris, the 25th. of the 3d. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XIII.

To Kerker Hassan, Bassa.

THE Blessings of God and his Prophet, descend upon thee from a Thousand Sources. Thou art a true Friend, and our whole Family are oblig'd to thee for Favours which have no Number: But none more than my Brother and I. Our Engagements to thee are Equal; since what Kindness thou hast shew'd to him, in recommending him to the Sultan's Favour, and to a Place of Ho∣nour and Profit, I take as done to my self; we be∣ing Naturally sharers in each others Prospe∣rity or Adverse Fortu••••. For such is the Me∣thod of strict Relations and Friendships. And, I have a particular Reason to thank thee, because it was at my Instance thou pro∣moted'st him. Yet tho he is my Brother, I should not be so Partial as to say these Things in his Behalf, did I not know him to be a Man of Merit. For Places of Trust, ought not to be bestowed for Favour or Affection. We are bound to sacrifice all Private Regards, to the Interest of the Grand Signior: And not act like the French, who get Offices of the Greatest Importance, many Times, by be∣ing of a Faction or Party, opposite to their King.

Since the Return of Cardinal Mazarini to this Court, which was in the foregoing Moon, the King has reform'd many Abuses of this Kind. He begins to feel his own Strength and Authority, every Day more and more.

In the Moon of December, dy'd Cardinal Richlieu's Brother, who was Bishop of Lyons, and Grand Almoner of France. The King has bestow'd these Honours on Cardinal Anto∣nio Barberini, who took Sanctuary in this Court, from the Persecutions of the Present Roman Pontiff, almost Ten Years ago. He has always espoused the King of France's Interests in Rome. And the grateful Monarch, receiv'd him with much Affection; and as an Additional Honour, has made him a Knight of the Holy Spirit. This is the Chiefest Order of Knighthood in France.

It is freshly reported here, that the Duke of Newburgh, a Great Prince in Germany, is dead. They talk also of certain Prodigies that have been lately seen in England, Ireland, and other Parts of Europe; As Raining of warm Blood, Tin and Copper. And 'tis affirm'd for certain, That Three Suns were lately seen at Dublin, the Chief City of Ireland.

There has been a Sea-Combat between the English and Hollanders on the Coasts of Italy. Wherein, they say, the Dutch had the Victory, having sunk Two of their Enemies Ships, and taken One, without any Conside∣rable Loss on their own Side.

Here is no other News stirring at pre∣sent worth the Knowledge of a Mussul∣man Grandee. The Eyes of all the We∣stern Nazarenes are fix'd on that Refuge of the World, where thou residest, and on the Actions of our Invincible Vizir in Candia.

They discourse of some Overtures of Peace, which that Great General has made to the Venetians, if they will forthwith surrender the City of Candia to the Victorious Os∣mans.

If this be true, one would think, so great Clemency must needs tempt the Proud Infidels to Submission and Compliance. But, if Destiny has otherwise Decreed, I wish they may feel the Force of our Arms, which ap∣pear more keen, than even the Soythe of Time, that Devourer of all Things.

Paris, 27th. of the 3d. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XIV.

To Nathan Ben Saddi, a Jew at Vienna.

THY last Letter speaks thee at once willing to be Enlightened, yet Tenacious of thy Old Prepossessions. I wonder not at the Difficul∣ty thou findest, in shaking off the Precepts of thy Rabbi's, those Religious Triflers. The Influence of Education, is forcible as that of our Birth: And the Habits that are root∣ed in us in our Tender Years, are harder to be displanted, than the Inhorent Affections of our Blood: This is signify'd by the Arabi∣an Proverb, which says, The Tutors of Youth, have an Ascendant over the Stars of their Na∣tivity.

I know it has been esteem'd the peculiar Glory of thy Nation, that you have been Ri∣gid Observers of the Traditions of your Fa∣thers: From which, rather than deviate a Title, there have not been wanting such as freely expos'd themselves, and have bravely endur'd Racks, Scourgings, Burnings, and all Sorts of Torments, even the most exquisite∣ly cruel Deaths, that the Malice of Tyrants cou'd invent. But do not I know also, that in some of the most Weighty Points of your Law, your Zeal has exceeded your Prudence? I speak not of the private Bigotry of one

Man, or a few; but of the Representative Bo∣dy of your Whole Nation. How foolishly Superstitious were your Armies in the Days of Mattathias, when being assaulted by their Enemies on the Sabbath Day, they refus'd to draw a Sword in their own Defence, and so were all cut off by the Army of Antiochus? This is no Invidious Remark of your Adver∣saries in Religion, but the Observation of Jo∣sephus, a Man of the same Faith, and sprung from the Stock of Israel, as well as thy Self.

Now tell me thy Opinion, did your Fa∣thers do well in thus Sacrificing themselves, and the whole Interest of Israel to a Mista∣ken Punctilio of that Obedience they ow'd the Law, or no? If thou allowest the Former, then Mattathias did Wickedly in making a Decree, That from thenceforth, it should be Lawful on the Sabbath-Day to resist their Enemies; and all the Jews were guilty of ma∣ny Notorious Breaches of the Law, in obey∣ing this Decree, and fighting on the Sabbath-Day: But if thou say'st, They did Ill in not fighting, tho' at a prohibited Time, and pro∣hibited under the Severest Curses; then it fol∣lows, That there is no Point of your Law, which may not, nay which ought not to be dispens'd with, and give way to the Interests of State, and the Good of the Commonwealth. So that at this Rate, the Religion for which you are all so Zealous, will appear to be but a Form of Government, Divinely contriv'd for Humane Regards. I do not call in Que∣stion,

the Miraculous Delivery of your Law on Mount Sinai. Suffer me to plead without Suspicion of Partiality: I do not go about to invalidate the Testimony of Moses, and the Prophets. Doubtless, the Most High came down through the Heavens, attended with Myriads of Angels, and Thirty Two Thou∣sand Chariots of Fire; and when he stood on the Top of the Mountain, the Rear of his Train had not passed the Silver Gates of the Moon. The Sun appear'd in his Circuit, as one astonish'd; he blush'd, and fled away from the Eternal Brightness, not able to en∣dure the Lustre of a Glory so far surpassing his own. The Stars were dazl'd at the Im∣mortal Splendor, and mistook their Courses; they run against one another in their affright∣ed Careers. And as a Lasting Memorial of that Glorious Descent, the Angels left the bright Impression of their Footsteps in the Path: That Heavenly Road, is to this Day distin∣guish'd from all the Rest of the Sky by its Whiteness, which makes the Astronomers call it THE MILKY WAY.

The Nations of the Earth were amaz'd at the Tremendous Vision and Noise; for the Mountain was all on Fire, whose Flames reach'd up to the Clouds, and its Smoke to the Mid-Heaven. The Globe Trembled and Quak'd at the Dreadful Thundrings, and the Lightnings penetrated the Abyss of Hell. The Infernal Spirits were startled at the Ʋncouth Flashes; and ask'd one another, If the Day of Judgment were come: The Waters hid them∣selves

in their Fountains, and the Ocean utter'd a deep Murmur. Every Thing in Nature was surpriz'd with Wonder and Dread, and Moses himself when he came down from the Mountain, was all Transform'd into Light.

Thou seest, Nathan, I am no Infidel, but believe, as thou dost, That the Law of Mo∣ses was brought down from Heaven. But does it therefore follow, That this Law is Ʋniversal and Eternal? Can none be sav'd but the Sons of Israel, and such as are Pro∣selyted to their Religion? Doubtless this is an Error, as thou thy self wilt acknowledge, when thou hast well examin'd the Matter. Remove thy Post a little, if it be only in Ima∣gination: Rise from the Feet of thy Doctors, who have instill'd into thee Prejudices against all the Sons of Adam, except those of your Own Race. Stand aloof for a while, and look round about thee to the Four Winds: but fix thine Eyes on the East, for from thence Wis∣dom takes her Origin. Did not the same God, who Greated the Jews, also Create all the Nations of the Earth? And canst thou be so blind and obdurate as to think, that So∣vereignty Merciful made so many Millions of Souls on Purpose to Damn them? Or that it shall be Imputed to them for Sin, that they were not born of the Seed of Jacob? Was it in their Power to chuse the Father that shou'd beget them, or the Mother that shou'd conceive them? How Absurd are the Conse∣quences of this Narrow Opinion? It is an unpardonable Pride and Malice, thus to

contemn and Judge those that are com∣pounded of the same Ingredients as your selves.

Doubtless, God has sent Prophets into all Nations, to guide them into the Right Way, and not into the Way of Infidels. Those who believe the Prophets and obey their Pre∣cepts, shall be Sav'd: For they preach the Ʋnity of the Divine Essence, the Resurrection of the Dead, the Day of Judgment, the Joys of Paradise, and the Torments of the Damn'd. They teach the Necessity of Ju∣stice, Purity, and Good Works; exhorting all to practise the Golden Rule, without en∣tangling their Minds in endless Niceties, which are but the Superfetation of Piety, the Ex∣crementitious Burdens of a Religious Life. Such are most of the Troublesom and Ridi∣culous Ceremonies observ'd by the Zealots of your Law, at which I have known the Wi∣ser Sort of Jews to laugh. These little Su∣perstitions, like Ʋnprofitable Suckers, exhaust the Vitals of Religion, and leave it only a Sapless Trunk, from which no Fruit can be expected. Were they commanded in the Law of Moses, something might be pleaded in their Defence; but as they are only the Dreams of your Rabbi's, a Wise Man would beware how he put on a Needless Yoke, the Stratagem of your Crafty Guides, to keep you in Subjection, and a servile Awe of their Au∣thority, and a Religious Timerousness of you know not what.

Thy Letter replies to this by Anticipation: For, supposing that I should argue thus, and charge you with adding Traditions of your own, to the Positive Injunctions of the Law; Thou tellest me, That those are greatly mistaken, who think that all which was deliver'd to Moses in the Mount, was Written in the Two Tables, or com∣priz'd even in the Pentateuch; as if the Prophet spent those Forty Days and Nights only in keeping of Geese. For it is e∣vident, say'st thou, That if God had No∣thing else to give him but the Written Law, he might have dispatch'd him in an Hour or a Day at Most. Therefore thou addest, That by Day he gave to him the Written Law, and by Night the My∣sterious Explanation of it, call'd, The Oral Law: Which Explanation, Moses taught by Word of Mouth to Joshua his Succes∣sor, Joshua to the Seventy Two Seniors; and that they transmitted this Oral Tra∣ditionary Comment down to their Posteri∣ty, even to the Last of the Prophets, from whom the Great Sanhedrim receiv'd it. After this every one deliver'd it to his Son, as he had receiv'd it from his Ancestors; and so it continues to this Day, to be the Rule of your Lives, in those Cases where the Written Law is Si∣lent. I tell thee Nathan, there appears a great Shew of Reason in what thou sayest: And indeed it cannot be suppos'd, that Moses spent all that Time, only in

receiving the Written Law. But on the other side, I cannot believe that the E∣ternal Mind was busied so many Days, in prescribing those Ridiculous Rules and Ceremonies, which are found in the Tal∣mud, and the Writings of your Rabbi's. If thou canst convince me of that, I will cease to Perswade thee to a Change.

I have a great deal more to say, but the Hour of the Post calls on me to conclude my Letter. In my next, I will fully answer all thy Arguments. In the mean Time, let not Custom, and the Di∣ctates of the Synagogue supplant thy Reason, but remember thou art a Man.

Paris, 27th. of the 3d. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XV.

To the Sublimely Wise, the Senior of Excellent Dignity, Abul-Re∣cowawn', Grand Almoner to the Sultan.

THou art placed on a High Seat, Emi∣nent among the Faithful; and the Eyes of the Distress'd, are fix'd on thee. Thou art the Patron of all the Miserable. To thee, as to a Sanctuary, flies the Man, whose Mis∣fortunes have bereav'd him of all other Hope: Whose drooping Spirits can find no Com∣fort from the Rest of Mortals. His last and only Refuge is to thee, who art the Faithful Steward of the Grand Signior's Liberalities. Let not too much Prudence supersede thy Charity. The Wicked and the Innocent, have Equal Access to thee: And it ought to be so; for, no Man, at first, can distinguish between the One and the Other by their Out∣ward Aspect. Yet a little Examination and Converse, will shew the Difference.

There are those, who get large Possessions under the Masque of Poverty. There are Impudent Beggars, who make a Trade of imposing on Human Compassion, and sport themselves in this humble Method of cheat∣ing People of their Money; whilst, imagi∣ning

they bestow it on Persons really Indi∣gent, it is thrown away on Counterfeits, Vil∣lains and Infidels.

On the other side, I have seen true Objects of Pity, Men reduc'd to the last Extremities, who wou'd rather perish, than expose their Condition to any, save the Great and Noble. They esteem such to be Wise Men, Generous, and Considerate of the Accidents which com∣monly befall Mortals. They think, to these they may freely unbosom themselves, tell their Wants, and claim Relief, without the Hazard of a Reproach, which wounds more deeply than a short Denial.

Thou mayst know them by the Modesty which appears in their Faces, (says our Holy Prophet) and that they are soon repuls'd. To such as these give plentiful Alms, and do not repine. For it is as a Profitable Mer∣chandize, sent to Remote Countries; which though ventur'd on the Uncertain Waters, yet in Time by the special Blessing of Heaven, shall return with Seven-fold Interest.

Nay, give to all that ask: For, it is better to misplace our Charity on Nine Unworthy Persons, than to deny an Alms to One that is really in Need. Besides, it is not for the Ho∣nour of a Sovereign Monarch, that any Per∣son in Distress shou'd depart from his Court, sad or discontented, for Want of Relief.

I have in some of my Letters, glanc'd at the Vices of these Western Nazarenes; and have not been altogether silent as to their Vertues. Among which, their Charity is very Conspicuous.

The French relate a pretty Passage of a cer∣tain Cardinal, a very Good Man, and one that by the Multitude of his Generous Acti∣ons, gave Occasion for the World to call him, the Patron of the Poor.

This Ecclesiastick Prince, had a constant Custom, Once or Twice a Week, to give Publick Audience to all Indigent People in the Hall of his Palace, and to relieve every one according to their various Necessities, or the Motions of his own Bounty.

One Day, a poor Widow encourag'd with the Fame of his Generosity, came into the Hall of this Cardinal, with her only Daughter, a beautiful Maid, about Fifteen Years of Age. When her Turn came to be heard, among the Crowd of Petitioners; the Cardinal discern∣ing the Marks of an extraordinary Modesty in her Face and Carriage, as also in her Daughter, he encourag'd her to tell her Wants freely. She blushing, and not with∣out Tears, thus address'd her self to him; My Lord, I owe for the Rent of my House Five Crowns, and such is my Misfortune, that I have no other Means to pay it, save what wou'd break my Heart, since my Landlord threatens to force me to it, that is, to Prostitute this my only Daughter, whom I have hitherto with great Care Educated in Vertue, and an Abhorrence of that Odious Crime. What I beg of your Emi∣nence is, That you wou'd please to interpose your Sacred Authority, and protect us from the Violence of this Cruel Man, till by our ho∣nest Industry, we can procure the Money for him.

The Cardinal mov'd with Admiration of the Woman's Vertue and Innocent Modesty, bid her be of good Courag••. Then he imme∣diately wrote a Billet, and giving it into the Widows Hands, Go, said he, to my Steward with this Paper, and he shall deliver thee Five Crowns to pay thy Rent.

The poor Woman over-joy'd, and retur∣ning the Cardinal a Thousand Thanks, went directly to his Steward, and gave him the Note: Which when he had read, he told her out Fifty Crowns. She astonish'd at the Meaning of it, and fearing this was only the Steward's Trick to try her Honesty, refus'd to take above Five, saying, She ask'd the Car∣dinal for no more, and she was sure 'twas some Mistake.

On the other side, the Steward insisted on his Master's Order, not daring to call it in Question. But all the Arguments he cou'd use, were insufficient to prevail on her, to take any more than Five Crowns. Where∣fore, to end the Controversy, he offer'd to go back with her to the Cardinal, and refer it to him. When they came before that Muni∣ficent Prince, and he was fully inform'd of the Business. 'Tis true, said he, I mistook in writing Fifty Crowns. Give me the Paper and I will rectify it. Thereupon he wrote again; Saying thus to the Woman, So much Candor and Vertue, deserves a Recompence. Here I have order'd you Five Hundred Crowns, What you can spare of it, lay up as a Dowry to give with your Daughter in Marriage.

If I mistake not, this Cardinal was call'd Farnese. But, whatever his Name was, this was an Action truly Heroick, and which has but few Parallels.

It will be much for the Glory and Interest of the Shining Port, if thou sometimes by an extraordinary Largess, raisest the Fortune of deserving Men; and puttest them in a Capa∣city to serve the Grand Signior. At least, such Bounty will oblige 'em not to dis-serve him.

Among the Rest, permit me to recom∣mend the Case of Ebnol Berwana Kayemas, thy Countryman. He was once Possessor of a fair Timariot, but was turn'd out by Sul∣tan Ibrahim, to gratify a Creature of Shechir Para. Thou know'st the Life of that Infa∣mous Woman. I say no more.

Paris, 2d. of the 5th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XVI.

To the Captain Bassa.

THou that art a Man of War, delightest, no Doubt, to hear of Combats and Bat∣tels. And I tell thee, That since the Begin∣ning of the World, there have never been known such dreadful Sea-Fights, as during the present War between the English and Dutch. It seems, there is an Emulation sprung up in the Latter: They grudge the Inhabitants of Britain the Character, which has been given 'em from all Antiquity, Of being the most Victorious on that Element, of any Nation on the Earth.

'Tis possible there may be some more par∣ticular Grounds of their present Quarrel, to which I am a Stranger. But assuredly, they have pursu'd their Animosities very eagerly on both Sides. And, let the Occasion be what it will, the Dutch are still Losers.

I sent thee an Account of a Combat be∣tween their Fleets last Year, since which they have had many other Engagements. And 'tis said here, that during this War, the English have taken from the Dutch, near Two Thou∣sand Merchant Vessels; have Sunk and Burnt many of their Ships of War, slain some of their Chief Commanders, spoil'd their Trade, and reduc'd 'em almost to as great Streights, as when they first courted the Protection of the

English against their Sovereign, the King of Spain, from whom they had then newly Re∣volted.

But the most terrible Conflict was, on the Second of this Moon, wherein the Dutch had Seven and Twenty of their Greatest Ships, ei∣ther sunk or burnt, Two Thousand of their Seamen and Soldiers kill'd, and a Thousand taken Prisoners, with many Captains. That Great General Trump, whom I mention'd in my Last, was slain in this Fight, after he had perform'd Prodigies of Valour.

The French say, that during the Heat of this Engagement, Trump being excessive Thir∣sty, call'd for a Bowl of Wine; which his Servant had no sooner deliver'd to him, but a Cannon-Bullet took his Hand off, just as he was retiring from his Master. The brave General touch'd with a Noble Compassion, spilt the Wine on the Deck, say∣ing, It is not fit that I should quench my Thirst, with the Blood of a Faithful Slave. And as soon as he had spoke these Words, another Bullet took from him, the Power of ever drinking again.

If such an Accident should happen to thee, when thou fightest against the Infidels, know for certain, that thou shalt be immediately transported to the Green and Shady Banks of the Rivers of Wine in Paradise, where thou may'st drink thy Fill in Eternal Security. For he that dies fighting for the Faith, is a Martyr.

Paris, 12th. of the 8th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XVII.

To Sale Tircheni Emin, Superin∣tendent of the Royal Arsenal at Constantinople.

I Remember I promised in my Last, to give thee a farther account of Pachicour, the famous Pyrate of the Black-Sea, 'Twere ea∣sy to perform it, but a Temptation diverts my Pen another Way.

I remember when thou wert Chiaus, I have heard thee speak of the Kingdom of Tu∣nis, whither thou wast sent by Sultan Amurat, to compose the Differences that happen'd be∣tween the Dey and the Divan of that City. At the same Time, thou mad'st Mention of a certain Admirable Engine, contriv'd to draw up Ships or any Thing else from the Bot∣tom of the Sea: And, that the Divan of Tunis, gave to the Artist who fram'd it, an Hundred Thousand Piasters, as a Reward of his Ingenuity.

I have read in a certain French Author, of such another Device at Venice, made on pur∣pose to draw up the Famous Carrack, which they call'd the Castle of the Sea. This Gal∣lion was built of a Monstrous Bulk, more for State than Service; and was overturn'd by her own Unweildiness, as she lay at Anchor, and sunk to the Bottom: From whence, nei∣ther

that foremention'd Engine, nor all the Art of Man could raise. Yet the Skill of the En∣ginier was highly commended, and the Senate honour'd him with the Title of Clarissimo, and settled a Noble Pension on him during Life.

It is question'd, whether the States of Hol∣land will be so Liberal to a certain French En∣ginier, who has made a Ship at Rotterdam, which they say, will out-do all the Mi∣racles of Noah's Ark.

This Ship is at present all the Talk at Paris. Our Merchants receive Letters full of Won∣ders from the Low-Countreys, concerning this Whirligig of a Vessel, which is to move by Clockwork, without Sails, Oars, Rudder, or any Common Marine Tackle; Yet, shall cut her Way through the Sea, with a swifter Pro∣gress than the Moon glides along the Sky, or a Bullet out of a Cannon. This is the Dis∣course of those who love to advance all that they hear, to the Height of a Miracle or Ro∣mance. Yet 'tis certain, the Artist has pro∣mis'd, it shall equal the Motion of some Birds, and run Twelve Leagues an Hour. Neither Winds nor Tides shall forward or hinder its Course, which depending on an Internal Principle of Perpetual Motion, is to be directed only at the Pleasure of him who manages the Springs and Wheels. So that the Master of this Vessel, shall be able with a single touch of Hand, to turn it to any Point of the Compass, in the most Boisterous Weather that blows.

This Enginier farther engages, that his Ves∣sel shall make a Voyage to the East-Inaies in the Revolution of a Moon, and to some Regi∣ons of America, in a fourth Part of that Time. If he be as good at Performance, as he is at Promising, he will Sail round the Globe, at this Rate, in Three Moons.

In farther Commendation of this wonder∣ful Machine, 'tis said, That by a New-Inven∣ted Art, it shall secretly under-Water disable any Ship, provided she be within Cannon-Shot; and this with so sudden a force, that in the Space of Six Hours, it will successively sink a Fleet of a Hundred Ships of War.

Moreover, this Artist, to appear not less subtle against the Efforts of Heaven, than in surpassing all the Inventions on Earth, pro∣mises that his Miraculous Vessel, shall at the Distance of a League, cut asunder any Spouts or Cataracts of Waters, which usually threa∣ten Mariners in the Mediterranean and o∣ther Seas.

'Tis possible thou art very well acquainted with the Nature of these Spouts, and the Danger of Ships that Sail near them. Yet give me Leave to inform thee, what I have heard from a certain Corsair, who has often met with 'em in the Levant.

This Pyrate tells me, that a Spout is a kind of Aqueduct between the Clouds and the Sea, by which those Pendulous Cysterns Above, are replenish'd with Water from the Ocean, drawing it up, as through a Pipe; Which seems to be let down for that End, at certain

Seasons, and in some Particular Places, where the Water boyls up first above the Surface of the Briny Plain, as a Signal to those Thir∣sty Bladders, to make a Descent there and suck their fill.

If this be true, who knows but that all the Rain, to which the Earth is indebted for its Fertility, comes thus Originally from the Sea? For, it may be made fresh, either in its first Ascent through the Roscid Air, or af∣ter its Reception into the Clouds, by some hidden Energy of that Element, or the Natu∣ral Force of the Middle Region: Or at least by some Unknown Vertue, perhaps not infe∣riour to that by which the Waters of a Bitter Lake in the Desert, became Sweet at the In∣tercession of our Holy Prophet, when the whole Army of the Primitive Mussulmans, was like to have perish'd of Thirst.

And then how will the Western Philosophers dispose of all the Vapours, which they say are Exhal'd from this Globe, and afterwards Condens'd into Clouds? I tell thee, that's but a Loose Notion of such Retentive Bodies, as the Clouds seem to be. And 'twou'd tempt one to ask, What the Vessels are made of which hold those Condens'd Exhalations, so that they do not fall at once upon our Heads and overwhelm us, but only destil in small successive Showers Drop by Drop, to refresh the Barren Parts of the Earth, and serve the Necessities of Men? And why the Rains fall in the Indies, and other Regions of the East, whole Moons together without Intermission,

the Rest of the Year being dry: Whereas, in other Countries, the Periods of the Wea∣ther's Alteration are uncertain, and in some Parts, it seldom or never rains at all?

Doubtless, the Works of the Omnipotent are Inscrutable: And tho' it may be an Argu∣ment of a great Wit, to give Ingenious Rea∣sons for many Wonderful Appearances in Na∣ture; yet 'tis an Evidence of small Piety or Judgment, to be positive in any Thing, but the Acknowledgment of our own Igno∣rance.

Now I have made as Wide an Excursion from my first Discourse, as the Moulia did, who began an Oration in Praise of Noah's Ark, and ended with telling a Tale of an Armenian Wheel-Barrow.

But I will not forget, that I was speaking of the Promise which the Rotterdam Engi∣nier has made of his Machine, That it shou'd Effectually break all the Force of Spouts, which wou'd render him very Serviceable to Mer∣chants, as a Convoy to defend them from those Terrible Bug bears to Sailers. For the Corsair tells me, that these Spouts very often occasion Ship-wrecks; either by entangling the Masts of a Ship, and so overturning it; or, by break∣ing in the Encounter, overwhelm it with water, and so sink it.

He says likewise, that the Christian Pyrates are accustom'd to use a certain Charm against these Spouts. They have a Knife, whose Haft is made of the Bone of a Man's Right Arm: And every Vessel, is bound to provide One or

Two of these Knives, when they loose from the Shore. They buy 'em of certain Persons, who have the Character of Magicians. And when they see a Spout at some Distance from 'em at Sea, the Master of the Vessel or any Bo∣dy else, takes this Enchanted Knife in his Right Hand, and holding the Book of their Gospel in his Left, reads some Part of it; And when he comes to a certain Versicle, which menti∣ons the Incarnation of their Messiah, he makes a Motion with his Knife towards the Spout, as if he wou'd cut it in Two. Whereupon, immediately the Spout breaks in the Middle; and all the inclos'd Water falls into the Sea.

But I tell thee, he who gives Credit to the Stories of Charms, or the Projects of Men pretending to excell all the Rest of their Race; has more Faith, than is requisite to him who reads Aesop's Fables, since in perusing that Ingenious Figment, we are only desired to believe the MORAL.

'Tis thought by some, That this Enginier will, by the Natural Clockwork of his Heels, be much more nimble than his Vessel, in flying the Disgrace which will attend him, if his Phan∣tastick Project prove unsuccessful. In my next thou shalt hear of Pachicour.

Paris, 12th. of the 8th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XVIII.

To Murat Bassa.

THE English, at present, make the great∣est Figure and Noise, of all the Nations in the West. Spain, Portugal, and even France it self court the Friendship of that Island, since the Inhabitants have form'd themselves into a Commonwealth. It appears, as if the English were but newly awaken'd to a Sence of their own Strength, and by thus rouzing themselves had alarm'd all their Neighbours.

However it be, This King has sent an Em∣bassador to the English Court, to break the Negotiation of the Spaniards there, and to e∣stablish a Peace between England and France, if possible.

One cannot tell what to make of the Ma∣xims of these Infidels. For, at the same Time, the Banish'd Heir of the English Crown, takes his Sanctuary in this Court. Where he is caress'd, and made to believe, Great Things they will do toward his Restauration. But Interest supersedes all Arguments of Affection and Consanguinity. They are more sollicitous here for the Success of their Embassy, than for the Right of the poor Exil'd Prince. He is call'd the King of Scotland, having been so∣lemnly Crown'd in that Kingdom, since the

Death of his Father; And entring into England with an Army of Scots, was routed; and having narrowly escaped the Trains that were laid for his Liberty and Life, at length landed in this Kingdom; where he has been enter∣tain'd with much seeming Affection. But the Dread they are under, of the Victorious New English Commonwealth, makes 'em be∣gin to talk of his Departure from hence.

The Prince of Conde has taken Rocroy: Which was the first Place where he signaliz'd his Arms, and the Infant-Reign of this King about Ten Years ago. Which the Supersti∣tious interpret, as an Omen of Ill Luck to the King. This Sort of People are led by Ma∣xims void of Reason: And so there is no Re∣gard to be given to their Observations. Yet, some of the Wiser Sort, think this will prove a long War.

That which amuses People most, is the small Concern the Prince of Conti and the Dutchess of Longueville shew for their Bro∣ther's Cause. For while the King was on his March against the Prince of Conde, they came and submitted themselves to him, and were received to Favour. Those who are apt to suspect an Intrigue in every Thing, say, That this Reconciliation is only feigned on their Part, it being a Means to serve their persecuted Brother with greater Security and Success. Others are of Opinion, that it is Re∣al, especially on the Prince of Conti's Part: Since he and his Brother, had never any good Understanding.

There has been a Battle lately fought be∣tween the French and Spanish Forces in I∣taly. Wherein, the Spa••iards lost Twelve Hundred Men, and the French above Half that Number, of their best Soldiers. So that the King of France may say with a Famous General, Victories attended with so little Advantage, will ruine, rather than enlarge, an Empire.

Bassa, in the midst of thy Grandeur, I wish thee Health, which sweetens the Worst Events. As for me, I'm like one hovering between Two Worlds.

Paris, 15th. of the 9th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XIX.

To Afis Bassa.

THE Gods of the Nazarenes, one wou'd think, were studying how to perplex their Adorers. These Western Parts, abound with Prodigies, and Surprizing Events. More especially, the Low Countries feel the Strokes of a Hand, which by making 'ern smart, seems to put 'em in Mind, They're too high in their own Conceit.

For several Weeks we have been alarm'd from thence, with the Tragical Stories of

Ship-wrecks, Inundations, Tempests of Thun∣der and Lightning, not usual at this Time of Year; Monstrous Spectres seen rising out of the Seas, Lakes and Rivers; Armies in the Air, with Comets and other Wonderful Apparitions.

The States of the Ʋnited Provinces, have lost by Wreck Sixteen Ships of War, and Thirty Seven Merchant Vessels. It looks, as if Aeolus and Neptune, the Chief Gods of the Hollanders, had enter'd into a League, to punish 'em for struggling against their Fate; whilst they maintain a Fleet to brave and plunder the English, under whose Sha∣dow they first rose to the Power they so Un∣gratefully now possess.

For, besides these Losses at Sea, the Winds and Waves have conspir'd to break down their very Banks, the onely Guards they have against that Encroaching Element. All the Low Countries, are overwhelm'd with Water: Insomuch, as Five Miles within Land from Ostend, there has been found a Whale newly cast up, Seven Times as long as a Man.

This the Infidels look on as a Great Prodigy, and the Fore-runner of some Strange Revolu∣tion; Though it is but a Natural Event, and frequently happens in those Seas, where Whales are more plentiful. The Naturalists say, That this King of the Scaly Nations, never makes his Progress through the Seas without his Guide; which is a certain small Fish, that always swims before him, and gives him Warning of Flats and Shallows, upon which he often strikes, and sometimes on the main

Shores, if his little Guide chance to be de∣vour'd by any other Fish, or come to other Mishap. And this may be the Reason, why so many Whales are found on the Sands when the Tide Ebbs. They say also, That when this little Fish is inclin'd to Rest, it re∣tires into the Whale's Belly, reposing it self there for some Time; during which the Whale rests also, not daring to venture forward, till his Guide comes forth and leads the Way. If this be true, it seems as if there were a League or Friendship contracted be∣tween these Two, they Mutually perform∣ing all the necessary Offices of Love and Gra∣titude. And how this can be done without some Species of Reason, I cannot comprehend.

Let them at the Port call me Mynesih, or what they please, I cannot forbear doing this Justice to the Fish of the Sea, as well as to the Animals on Earth, to acknowledge, That either they are indu'd with a Kind of Reason; or, that Faculty which we call so in Men, is no other than Sence. If the Brutes perform many Things without any Deliberation or Counsel, so do most Men: And no Man can demonstrate, That even those Dumb Beings, do not advise and project, before they attempt any Thing of Moment towards their own Preservation, or the Service of others. And if they seem to do many Things rashly, it may be attributed to the Quickness and Viva∣city of their Sence, which needs not the Slow and Flegmatick Methods of Human Coun∣sel.

Suffer these Digressions, Courteous Bassa; and since I have led thee so far out of the Road, take but another Step, and I'll shew thee a Great Monarch, who commands Millions of Men, carry'd away Captive by a Silly Beast.

The King of France, t'other Day as he was a-hunting, discharg'd a Fowling-Piece at a Partridge on the Wing. The Bird dropt, and the Monarch eager to take up his Game, gave the Reins to his Horse, who ran away with him over a great Plain, for the Space of half a League: And had not the King fallen off, within Six Paces of a great Chasme or Hole in the Earth, he wou'd have been Car∣ry'd, for ought I know, to keep Company with Horatius Curtius, the Venturous Roman, of whose Exploit thou hast heard: For, the furious Steed not being aware of the Danger before him, as soon as he had cast the King, gallop'd full Speed into the gaping Precipice, and was never more heard of.

This, the Priests cry up for a Miraculous Escape, and presage, That the King is reserv'd by Providence for Great Things.

The King of Portugal has an Embassador here, who in his Master's Name proposes a Match between this King and the Infanta of Portugal, proffering Four Millions of Crowns as her Dowry. But the Court entertains this Motion coldly; the Cardinal being averse, for what Reason is not known: For the In∣fanta has an Illustrious Character, and known to be a Princess of Incomparable Vertue.

This Minister is managing a Match of near∣er

Concern to himself, designing to marry One of his Nieces to the Prince of Conti, Brother to the Prince of Conde. And 'tis said, this Prince receives the Cardinal's Proposals with less Scorn, than did the Count of Soissons those of Cardinal Richlieu, on the like Occasion.

Here is a Rumour, as if the Prince of Con∣de, wou'd be condemned by a Process of Parliament, and that he will be put to Death in Effigie.

This Indignity is Common among the Infi∣dels, who esteem whatsoever Honour or Dis∣grace is shewn to Images, as done to the Persons whom they represent. They have no other Excuse for their Worship of Things made by the Hands of Men like themselves, but that it is purely Relative, and centers in the Prototype.

In the mean Time, the Prince of Conde's Friends and Well-Wishers, smile at his Ima∣ginary Death; knowing, that if no Effectu∣al Stroke of Fate carry him out of the World, he will be at the Head of a Potent Army in the Spring, to put many to Death in Reality, and by the Edge of the Sword, who fight for his Enemies.

A while agoe, a Man was Imprison'd here by his own Folly; having voluntarily de∣clar'd, That he was hir'd by this Prince to assassinate Cardinal Mazarini.

I have spoken formerly of the Count d' Har∣court, and the Disgrace he was in at this Court, for not continuing the Siege of Londa, a Strong-Hold of the Spaniards in Catalonia. This General is a brave Man, and has done E∣minent

Services to the Crown of France. It is no Wonder therefore, that he laid to Heart the Coldness and Contempt, with which he was receiv'd at his Return from that Ʋnfortunate Campaign. Great Souls, are to be Caress'd with more than ordinary Affection in their Adverse Fortunes; and Faithful Servants, ought not to be reproach'd with every false Step, or ill Success in their Affairs. The Count resenting ill the King's Carriage toward him, remov'd himself from the Court, and then out of the Kingdom; designing, as is suppos'd, to serve the Emperour of Germany.

Last Week, his Two Sons that were de∣tain'd as Hostages in this City, made their E∣scape, the Duke of Loraine having promised, to give the Eldest his Daughter in Marriage.

That Duke roves up and down like a Free-Booter, with an Army of Banditti at his Heels.

Renown'd Afis, I make an Humble and Affectionate Obeisance; wishing thee as ma∣ny Years of Life, as thou can'st pass without languishing for Death.

Paris, the 17th. of the 11th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

LETTER XX.

To Dgebe Nafir, Bassa.

THOU succeedest a Righteous Minister, Chiurgi Muhammet. I wish thee a Surplusage of Happiness: Which thou wilt not fail to possess, if thou inheritest the Ver∣tues of that Bassa, as well as his Office. May his Soul now taste the Reward of his Just Life. And I doubt not, but he has made an happy Experience of my Wishes. He sits down in Quiet, under the Trees of Eden. His Head encompass'd with a Garland of Flowers, which never fade. Vested with the Immar∣cescible Crimson and Purple of Paradise. He reposes on his Bed of Delights, whilst Beauti∣ful Pages serve him in Vessels of Gold, set round with Sapphires and Emeralds: He drinks the delectable Wine which never Inebriates; and eats of the Fruits, every Morsel of which, pro∣longs his Life for a Thousand Ages. He hears Nothing but the Voices of such, as are full of Benediction and Joy. The Virgins of Paradise, salute him with a Grace which can∣not be express'd. They chaunt to the New∣come Guest, Songs of Immortal Love. To the Stranger from Earth, they tell their Passion in Strains, which ravish his Heart. He is dissolv'd in a Thousand Ecstasies. This is the Reward of a Pious Mussulman, a Wise Mini∣ster, a Just Judge of the Faithful. Follow his

Example, and thou shalt be translated into his Company: For he is in a Goodly Place, near the Spring-Head of Perfect Bliss.

Thou wilt expect some News from me, as a Testimony of my Respect. And I cannot pretend there is none stirring, at a Juncture when all this Part of the World is so full of Action, or at least of Counsels.

Here has been great Rejoicings lately for the taking of St. Menehoud, a Strong Town in the Hands of the Prince of Conde. All the Officers of the French King's Army, endea∣vour'd to dissuade him from the Siege of this Place; but Cardinal Mazarini over-rul'd their Arguments, and having reprov'd their groundless Fears, caus'd it to be invested and attacqu'd the 22d. of the 10th. Moon. Some say, he had a Party there. Yet it held out till the 27th. of the last Moon, at which Time it was surrender'd upon Articles to the King, who was there in Person with his Brother, the young Duke of Anjou, the Queen, the Car∣dinal and the whole Court. They return'd to this City, the Ninth of this present Moon.

They were receiv'd with great Acclama∣tions and seeming Joy, by those who wou'd have triumph'd more heartily, had they been defeated, or forc'd to raise the Siege. For the Citizens of Paris, wish well to the Prince of Conde's Arms: Not so much out of Love to him, as in Hatred of his Enemy, the Cardi∣nal-Minister. And they are sensible, that this Successful Siege, will redound wholly to

the Cardinal's Honour, by whose sole Orders the Place was invested.

It is discours'd, as if this Minister has some new Design on Foot, to conquer the Kingdom of Naples. This is certain, a Migh∣ty Fleet is fitting out to Sea: Whither bound, no Man knows, but those of the Cabinet, among whom the Cardinal is Chief.

In the mean while, the Common People listen after certain Prodigies, that have been seen in the Air. They say, a Flaming Sword appear'd lately to rise in the North, and take its Course South-Eastward: From whence People make various Prognosticks, as their Passions or Interests inspire 'em. Some are of Opinion, it presages the Conquest of Naples by this King's Arms. Others apply it to the New Common-Wealth of England, and to the Victorious Sword of Oliver; who from Gene∣ral of the English Army, is now in this very Moon exalted to the Height of Sovereign Pow∣er, Governing the Nations of England, Scot∣land and Ireland, under the Title of their Pro∣tector.

Here are divers of his Subjects in this Ci∣ty; and other English, Scots, and Irish, who embrace the Interest of Charles, the Son of their late Murder'd King, who has been since Crown'd King of the Scots. They give a dif∣ferent Character of Oliver; yet all agree, that he is a Wise Statesman, and a Great Ge∣neral.

The Scotch King's Party, speak contempti∣bly of Oliver's Birth and Education: Yet

thou know'st, this hinders not, but he may be a Man of Courage and Vertue. They re∣late many odd Passages of his Youth, which seem to me so many Evidences of an extraor∣dinary Genius, and that he is a Person of a deep Reach.

He tamper'd with several Religious Factions in England, counterfeiting an Exquisite Pi∣ety; whereby he first rais'd himself a Name among the Zealots of that Nation, who look'd upon him there, as a very Holy Person, and one mark'd out by Destiny for Great Under∣takings.

He soon got a Considerable Command, in the Army of the Revolters: Where he signa∣liz'd himself by many brave Actions, which spoke him a Man of an Invincible Courage, and Admirable Conduct. So that at Length, none was thought more fit than he to be Ge∣neral. In fine, he acquitted himself so gal∣lantly in that High Office, and has so wrought himself into the Affections of the People, that they now look upon him as a Prophet, or Sa∣viour; and the Divan or Parliament of that Nation, have conferr'd on him the Sovereign Authority.

Those of the English which are Affected to his Interest, speak Great Things in his Praise; They call him another Moses or Joshua: They prefer him to Hannibal, Scipio, and even to the Great Alexander. It is difficult for them, to speak of him without Hyperbole's. 'Tis said, the King of France will court his Friendship. Indeed, all the Neighbouring Countries,

stand in Awe of this successful Hero. And the Hollanders, who are the only People that durst engage in a War with the English Com∣mon-Wealth, now seek for Peace, since he is invested with the Supreme Authority.

In the mean Time, the Poor Exil'd King of the Scots, takes Sanctuary in this Court, with his Mother the Late Queen of England, and his Brother, whom they call the Duke of York. The French King allows them all very Considerable Pensions. And the Latter has some Command in the Army in Flanders. There is another Brother also; but, little talk'd of as yet, being the Youngest of the Three.

They are Generously entertain'd here, it be∣ing the peculiar Honour of this Court, to be a Hospitable Refuge to Princes in Distress. Yet Observing Men say, The King will in Time grow Weary of his Royal Guests: It being ve∣ry Chargeable to maintain them, and their Burdensome Retinue. Besides, he will have some Reason of State to discard them, if he enters into a League with Oliver, the New English Sovereign, who is courted on all Hands.

Eliachim the Jew (of whom thou wilt hear in the Divan) is just come into my Chamber, and brings me Word, that there is an Express newly arriv'd, who informs the Queen of a Defeat given to the Spaniards near a City call'd Rozes, which they had be∣sieg'd in Catalonia. The French were going to the Relief of this Place, and the Spaniards set upon them in their March, but were

beaten into their Trenches; from whence they fled by Night, leaving Three Hundred Spa∣niards on the Spot, almost Two Thousand Prisoners, and all their Cannon and Baggage.

This has put the Court into a Jolly Hu∣mour. Nothing but revelling and dancing, employs their Time: The Young, King ta∣king great Delight in Balls, Masques and such Recreations; having left off Hunting, ever since his Horse ran away with him in the Tenth Moon of this Year, after he had shot a Partridge. Whereof I have spoken already in one of my Letters.

The Great God preserve thee from Preci∣pices, Poison, the Glances of a Witch, and from being Canoniz'd a Martyr in a String: And, for other Deaths, thou hast Vertues e∣nough to encounter 'em bravely.

Paris, 30th. of the 12th. Moon, of the Year 1653.

The End of the Third Book.