The comical romance, or, A facetious history of a company of stage-players interwoven with divers choice novels, rare adventures, and amorous intrigues / written originally in French by the renowned Scarron ; and now turned into English by J.B.

CHAP. XXI.

The Novel. Or the Trapanner Trapan'd

A Young Lady of the City of Toledo, named Victoria, descended from the Ancient Fa∣mily of Portocarrero, had retired her self to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 private-house scituated on the brink of the Ri∣ver Tagus in the absence of her brother, wh•••• was a Captain of a Troop of Horse in the Lo•••• Countries. She became a widdow at her seven∣teenth year, being wedded to an ancient Gen∣tleman that had gotten a great estate in th•• Indies, who six months after his Marriage per••∣shed in a Storme at Sea, leaving her much weak•••• behind. This fair widdow after the loss of he•• husband kept house constantly with her brother▪ where she lived in such repute, that at the age of Twenty all those Mothers that were made happy in her acquaintance, proposed her for an•• Example or Pattern to their Children, the Hus∣bands to their Wives, and the Gallants to their desires, as a conquest worthy their Noblest Am∣bition: But as her retirement quelled the love and hōpes of many, so on the other hand it en∣creased the esteem the whole world had for her▪ In this habitation, she enjoyed at liberty, al••

the innocent pleasures of a Country Life; when ••••e morning her Shepherds brought into her ••use a couple of men, whom they found stript 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all their Cloaths and bound fast to a Tree, here they had been tyed the whole Night. ••••ey had lent each of them a scurvey Shepherds ••at to cover themselves withall, and in this ••uipage did they appear before the pretty ••••ddow Victorio. The poverty of their habit ••••uld not hide the rich meen of the younger, ••o made her a hansome Complement, and told 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he was a Gentleman of Cordova, by name 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lopes de Gongora; who was travelling from ••••••l to Madrid about business of importances, ••••d having over slipt his time at play about half ••••ies journey from Toledo, where he dined the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 before, the night surprized them; and ••••ing a sleep as his man likewise did, expecting ••ule-driver that stayd behind; some Theeves ••••ing them both in that condition, tied them ••a Tree, after they had stript them to their ••y Shirts. Victoria doubted not of the Truth this Relation, his Noble countenance speak∣•••• in his favour, and she knowing how great a ••erosity there was in releeving a stranger, ••uced to that want. It hapned that amongst Cloaths her brother left in his Guarderobe, ••••e were two good Sutes, for the Spaniards ••••er part with their old Cloaths, though they ••••e new, but hoord them up as Relicks of their ••ndeur. These two were bestowed on the ••••ter and his man, and were not much unfit either of their Bodies. Dinner time being

neer, this stranger whom Victoria invited her Table, appeared so compleat, and ent••••∣tained her with so much wit, that she fanci•• her Charity could never have been better p••••∣ced. They kept company together the ••••∣maining part of the day, and were so mu•••• taken with each others perfections, that neit•••••• of them slept so quietly that night as they w•••• wont. The stranger would needs send his ••••∣vant to Madrid to take up money and buy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cloaths; or at least pretended it, but the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 widdow would not suffer him, promising 〈◊〉〈◊〉 enough for his expences to his journeys 〈◊〉〈◊〉 He mentioned somewhat of Love to her the ••••••∣ry same day; and she gave him a very frien•••• audience. In fine, within fifteen daies, the ••••∣portunity of the place, the equal merit of the p••••∣sons, a great many vows and protestations u•• one side, and too much credulity and frank•• on the other, their vigorous youth, a promis•• marriage, and a reciprocal faith given in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sence of an ancient Staward and Victorias W••••∣ing-woman, tempted her to commit an oversig•••• she was thought uncapable of running into, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 put this stranger in possession of the gre•••• and till then the chastest and severest beaur•• Toledo. For at least eight daies tegether it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 nothing but Love and Dear, Fire and Flame 〈◊〉〈◊〉 twixt the young couple, Kissing, Embra•••• and Courting, was their meat, drink and d••••∣tion, night and day: But part they must, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Tears succeeded their Smiles and Caref•••••• though Victoria might have spared them had

known all; The stranger was desired to stay a ••hile longer, but he told her such a tale of what ••e should loose by his delay, that when he ••emed to consent to her proposition, which ••e enjoyment of so great a bliss, made him ••illing to continue to eternity, as he protested; ••e then changed her mind and was as eager to ••••ve him gone, her passion having not blinded ••••r reason so much, as to prefer the happiness 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Society, to his greater advancement. ••e furnished him with new apparel from Tole∣•••• and gave him what money he desired, where∣••••th he prosecutes his journey, being mount∣•••• on an excellent Mule himself, and his man 〈◊〉〈◊〉 another, the poor Lady being stung with ••••ief at his departure, and he as much afflicted, ••••at least pretending to be so, for leaving her ••••ne. The same day he went thence, the Cham∣••••r Maid making the Bed, found a Picture case ••••apt in a Letter fallen down behind a Chair ••ereon he laid his Cloaths; she carried it im∣••ediately to her Mistris, who opening the same, ••ued a most excellent young Ladies Picture ••••shrined in it, and Reading the Letter, it con∣••ined these or the like following Lines.

Dearest Cousin,

HEre inclosed I send you a Picture of the beauti∣ful Elvira de Sylva; but when you shall be∣••••ld the Original, you will be forced to confess how ••••initely Art falls short of Nature, and how much ••ighter this Sun of beauty is, then the poor shaddow ••••an by the skilfullest Painters hand. Her Father

Don Pedro expects you with much impatience, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Articles of marriage betwixt you and Elvira 〈◊〉〈◊〉 drawn up according to your wishes, very much 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your advantage. And this I hope will be a sufficie•••• motive to hasten your voyage to Madrid, where 〈◊〉〈◊〉 amongst other real friends shall find.

Madrid this, &c.

Your Servant, &c. Don Antonio de Ribera.

The Letter was directed to Ferdinand de R••∣bera at Sevil. Imagine I beseech you Victori•• astonishment at the Contents of this Pape•• which in all probability could be intended fo•• no other but her false Lopez de Congora, she no•• perceived, but too late, that this stranger, who•• she had so highly and hastily obliged, had di••∣guised his Name, and by that counterfeit, sh•••• guessed at his infidelity and treachery. Th•• beauty of the Picture run in her mind, but th•• Articles of marriage almost distracted her wit•• dispair. Never was poor forsaken Lover mor•• deeply afflicted: Her sighes did well nigh bu•••• her heart, and her tears drowned her eyes, fo•• she wept till her head aked most intollerably miserable, forlorn, wretched woman that I am said she to her self, (and sometimes to her ol•• trusty Steward likewise, who was a witness o•• the promise of Marriage:) have I acquired s•• much reputation and esteem of all the worl••

to be thus Trappan'd, and refused so many proffers amongst my acquaintance, who would have thought themselves too happy in my en∣••oyment, to throw my self away upon a stran∣ger, that perhaps laughs at my easie credulity, how he hath risled me of all my honour and ••oasted reputation, and ruind my Fame eter∣••ally; What will they say at Toledo? and what will they not say in Spain? Can a young cheat∣••ng pretender, be so discreet as to conceal the ••hame he hath stuck upon me? Why did I let ••im know my heart, before I was assured of the ••ncerity of his vowes? Could he have changed ••is Name if he had meant to keep his flattering ••romises? Or can I hope he will be reclaimed ••fter he hath enjoyed me? What will not my ••rother be provoked by this heynous fact to do ••gainst me; and to what purpose is he Courting ••ame and Glory in a forraign Land, when I ••last the Credit of his Name and Family thus 〈◊〉〈◊〉 home. No, no, Victoria must undertake ••omething that may repair her crime; But be∣••re I proceed to vengeance, and a desperate ••ure, it will be fit to try a safer and milder re∣••edy, I must indevour by my craft to regain ••hat I have lost by my imprudence: It will be ••••en time to make use of desperate waies, when have found all others ineffectual: Victoria had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seems some judgement left in her distressed ••ondition, since she could fix on such good re∣••lutions in such a dangerous intrigue. Her ••••d Steward and her Waiting woman would ••eds become her Councellors: but she told

them, she knew as much as they could say; Bu•• words were wind, whereas sudden action mu•••• effect her business, and guid her out of this Lab••••∣rinth. So the very same day a couple of Cart•• were Laden with Houshold stuff and necessaries Victoria giving out, amongst her domestick Ser∣vants, that she had business called her to th•• Court, which concerned her Brother very much She took Coach with her Squire and Woman and hurried to Madrid, whither her good were appointed to follow. As soon as she ar∣rived, she made inquiry for Don Pedro, de Silv•••• house, and being informed where abouts it was hired one for her self in the same Street. He Stewards name was Rodrigo Santillane, who from his youth was Bred up by Victorias Father which made him have the same respect for hi•• Mistris as if she had been his own Sister. Having much acquaintance in Madrid, where he ha•• often Sojourned, he soon discovered that Do•• Pedro de Silvas daughter, was to be Wedded to a Sevillian Gentleman, named Fernand de Ri∣bera, which match was brought about by a Kinsman of his of the same Name, it being so nere the conclusion that Don Pedro was pro∣viding Servants and all other Necessaries for his Daughters family. The very next day Rodrigo Santillane. in a plain and decent Garbe•• Victoria, in a sober Widdows habit, and Beatri•• her waiting Woman, who was to personate he•• Mother in Law and Rodrigos Spouse, went al•• of them together to Don Pedro's, and desired to speak with him; Don Pedro admitted them

very civily; to whom Rodrigo said, with much confidence; that he was a decaied Gentleman of Toledo, and having one onely Daughter by his Wife, which was Victoria, whose Hu••band deceased not long since at Sevil, finding his own and his Daughters fortune very low and mean, he had brought her to Court to get some good Service for her; and being informed that his intent was to settle his Daughter Elviras Fa∣mily at her marriage, he hoped that it would not be unkindly taken, that he came to proffer the widdows service to him; she being a person very fit to become a Duegna to the Bride, not doubting but her Breeding and good Nature would give her a better title to her Mistresses Favour, then the small beauty she had to re∣commend her. Before I proceed any farther, I must advertise those that are unacquainted with it, that the Ladies in Spain keep Duegnas, in their houses, and these Duegnas are much the same thing as our Governesses or Ladies of ho∣nour belonging to great persons: I must adde to this, that these Duegnas or Dovegnes in Spain, are severe, troublesome, importunate animals, no less dreadful then a domineering Mother in Law. But to go on with the Story: Roarigue plaid his part so well, and Victoria whose beau∣ty was the best oratry, appeared so comely in her modest attire, and had so much good augu∣ry in her countenance, that he accepted of her immediately to govern his Daughter. He prof∣fered Redrigue and his wife an imployment in his own family likewise; but Rodrigue excused

himself, and told him several reasons did forbi•• to him lay hold of that honour and advantage but having taken an house in the same street, h•• would be ready to wait upon him at any tim•• he should command it. Thus was Victoria en∣tertained in Don Pedros house, infinitely belove•• both by him, and his Daughter Elvira, and n•••• less envied of all the other Servants, Don Anto••∣nio di Ribera, who had contrived the match fo•• his faithless Cousin, came very often to bring him tidings that his Kinsman was on his journey and had written to him at his setting forth from Sevil. And yet this Galant did not appear, thi•• somewhat perplexed him; nor could Don Pedro and Elvira tell what to judge of it, but Victori•• was the most concerned. But Don Fernand ha•• reason not to come, The very same day he parted from Victoria, heaven punished his infi∣delity. As soon as he was gotten to Illescos; a fierce dogge running out of a house unawares, affrighted his Mule so terribly, that his Legg was sorely bruised against a neighbouring wall, and he thrown down and his Knee put out of joynt, which pained him so much he could not prosecute his journey. He was seven or eight days at least, in the Chyrurgions hands, who having no great experience, and his grief not abating, it constrained him at length to send his Cousin word of his misfortune, and withal in∣treat him to procure a Horse-Litter for him that he might get to Madrid. The news of his fall affrighted them no less, then the knowledg of his being so nigh pleased them. Victoria, who

still loved him, for all his prevarication, was hugely afflicted. Don Antonio sent a Litter to convey Fernand to Madrid, where being ar∣rived, whil'st they were providing Cloaths for him and his Retinue, which was very magnifi∣cent (he being the eldest Son of the Family and wealthy enough) the Chyrurgions of Madrid, more skilful then he at Illescas, cured him per∣fectly well. Don Pedro de Silva, and Elvira his Daughter, had notice given them of the day whereon Don Antonio de Ribera had engaged to bring his Cousin Don Fernand to them. It is ve∣ry probable the young Elvira had not neglected her self, nor was Victoria a little concerned. She saw her faithless Lover make his entrance, trickt up like a Bridegroom, and if he was so taking in his tattered habit, what must he not be now he was so compleat. Don Pedro was very well satisfied, and his Daughter must have been very nice, had she not been fully pleased. The Servants of the house stared upon their young Ladies sweet heart with open eyes, and every one of the Family were overjoy'd, ex∣cepting poor Victoria, whose heart was heavy and almost overcharg'd with grief. Don Fernand was charmed with Elviras beauty; confessing, as his Cousin informed him, that the Painter had much injured her. His first complements ex∣pressed a great deal of wit, and were not made up of those extravagant fooleries, most men are guilty of, in their first addresses to a Father in Law, and a handsome Mistress. Don Pedro de Silva Lock't himself up in a Closset with the

two Kinsmen and a Lawyer, to adjust some∣what that had been left unfinished in the Ar∣ticles. In the mean time Elvira staid in her own apartment, surrounded with her Women, who were entertaining his with the applause of her new Servitor: Onely Victoria stood cold and mute, whilst they sung her Encomiums; Elvira observed it, and took her aside to tell her, she admired that she said nothing of the happy choice her Father had made of a husband, who seemed so deserving, and subjoyned, that either out of complaisance or civility, she ought to express somewhat. Madam, replied Victoria, your Lovers presence speaks his worth so ful∣ly, it were needless to add my dull judgement to it. The coldness you have taken notice of does not proceed from any indifferency, I were unworthy of the favours you have vouchsafed me, should I not share in all that does concern you: And therefore be confident I should be no less transported with joy at your Marriage, then all the rest about you are, were I not so well acquainted with the Gentleman you are to Wedd. My own husband was an inhabitant of Sevil, whose house stood but a very little di∣stance from your Servants. He is indeed of a good Family, Rich, Handsome, and I do believe a man of Wit and other Excelling qualities. In fine, he is worthy of a Lady such as you are: But withal, I am certain you deserve a mans in∣tire affection, which he cannot bestow on you, because his heart is divided. I could wave this discovery, which may perhaps displease you:

But this were to betray my trust, should I con∣ceal what I know of Don Fernand, in a business, whereon depends the happiness or unhappiness of your whole Life. Elvira was amazed at her Duegneas words, and intreated her to clear those doubts she had Started. Victoria replied, that it was neither to be done before that presence, nor in few words. Elvira pretended she had some business of privacy in her Chamber, where Victoria as soon as they were alone, told her: That Fernand de Ribera was in love at Sevil, with one Lucretia de Monsalva, a very beautiful Lady, though of a very mean Fortune; by whom he had three Children upon promise of marriage; and that during Ribera's Fathers life it was kept very secret, after whose death Lucretia having claimed his promise, he grew very cold; where∣upon she had referred the business to the Arbi∣tration of some friends; all which made so much noise in Sevil, that Don Fernand had, by his friends perswasions, absented himself for a time, to shun the rage of Lucretias kindred, who hun∣ted for revenge and blood. In this posture were his affairs; pursued she, when I came from thence, at which time it was also reported that Don Fernand was going to Madrid to be married. Elvira could not refrain asking, whether the aforesaid Lucretia were a beauty? Victoria told her, she wanted nothing but wealth, and so left her extreme pensive, and firmly resolved to give her Father a present account of the business. At the same instant word was brought her that her designed husband waited without for her,

having concluded the Article that they were consulting on in the old Fathers Closset: Elvira went to him, whilst Victoria staid in the with∣drawing Room, where the same fellow came to her that attended on him, when she so Nobly releeved them after their being stript. This di∣ligent Servant of his, brought a Packet of Let∣ters for his Master, which he had taken up at the Post-house. He did not know Elvira, so much her change of habit had disguised her; where∣fore he desired to be admitted to the speech of his Master, to deliver the said Packet; She told him, it would be a good while before he could have that oppertunity with convenience, but if he durst trust her with his Letters, she would be sure to give them, as soon as possibly she could get to him. The fellow made no scru∣ple in the case, but having left them in her custo∣dy, he went about his affairs. Victoria who was resolved to leave no stone unturned, goes up to her own Chamber, opens the Packet, and in a moment Seals it up again, together with a Let∣ter of her own contriving amongst the rest. This being done the Kinsmen took their leaves. Elvira spying the Letters in her Governess hand, asked what it was? Victoria coldly answer∣ed, that Don Fernands Serving man had left some Letters with her to deliver to his Master, which she was going to send after h••m, not being in the way, when he went forth. Elvira said, it would not be amiss to break them open, since perhaps it might give them some further light about the discovery she had made. This being

••hat she desired, Victoria rips open the Seal a ••econd time. Elvira reads the several super∣••criptions, and fixing her eye upon one that ••eemed to be a womans hand, addressed to Don ••ernand de Ribera at Madrid, she unfolds it, and ••herein found these following Lines.

YOur absence, and the News I hear that you are to be hastily married at Court, will soon deprive ••u of a person that valued you above her own life, ••••less you suddenly return and make good your pro∣••ise and solemn Engagement, which you can neither ••••fer any longer or violate without a manifest disho∣••ur and Breach of Faith. If what I hear be true, ••••at you regard your Promises and Vowes so little, ••hich you made both to me and our Children, beleeve ••e you will run the hazard of your life, (no less ••••n then the loss of your Fame, Credit and Sincerity) ••••ich my Kindred are resolved to make you pay ••••wn for your treachery, when ever I shall call up∣•••• them for my just Revenge, since you enjoy it now ••ely at the request of,

From Seville.

Lucretia de Monsalva.

Elvira did now absolutely beleeve all what ••••r Governess had told her, finding it so au∣••entically confirmed by this fresh testrimony. ••••e imparts it to her Father, who could not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 infinitely admire, that a Gentleman of his ••ality should be so unworthy as to ruine a

Lady of equal Birth with him, after he had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 many Children by her, upon no other accoun•• but his inconstant humour. This made him re∣pair to a Sevillian Gentleman a Friend of hi•• for information, as being one that had befor•• given him a clear account of Don Fernands weal•••• and quality. He was scarce gone out of door•• when Don Fernand came to inquire for his Pa••∣ket, attended with his Servant, who told him his young Mistresses Governess had promised 〈◊〉〈◊〉 deliver them into his hands. Elvira freely to•••• him, that she had taken them from her, a•••• had the Curiosity to Break them open, n•••• doubting but a Man of his years had some E••∣gagement amongst so many Galants as abou••¦ded in Sevil, and although she could not sa•• she had reaped any great satisfaction, yet sh•• had met with this caution in recompence, ho•••• dangerous a thing it was for young people to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 married together, before they were very thro••∣ly acquainted with each other, but now s•••• would not debar him any longer of his delig•••• in perusing them. At these words she restore•• them, and slightly bowing to him in civility le•• him, before he could make any reply: D•••• Fernand was strangely surprized at her di••∣course. He Examined the supposed Lette•• and perceived it was some knack to hinder 〈◊〉〈◊〉 marriage. He addressed himself to Victori•• who remained in the outward Room, and to•••• her, without minding her fault much; that ••∣ther some Rival, or malicious person. had co••∣trived that Letter to abuse him. I a Wife 〈◊〉〈◊〉

Sevil? cryed he; I two or three Children; If 〈◊〉〈◊〉 do not prove this to be the most impudent im∣••ostor that ever was set on foot, let me die? Victoria told him, he might possibly indeed be ••nnocent, but yet his Mistress in discretion could ••o no less then make a further inquiry as to the ••••uth of it, and therefore consequently his mar∣••••age would be put off, till her Father Don Pedro ••ould be convinced by the Gentleman his ••••iend, whom he was gone to seek, that this was ••••ly a pretended intrigue. That is but reason, ••••swered he, and if there be but a Lady of the ••••ame of Lucretia de Monsalvo in all that whole ••ity, let me forfeit all the Reputation and Ho∣••••ur of a Gentleman, and let me intreat you, ••••ded he, if you are but so much acquainted ••••ith your Ladies secrets as to be her confident, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 much as I perceive you are her Favorite, that ••••u would be kind in your good Offices, & take ••••y part in all these little contests. Truly, said Vi∣••••ria, I can affirm without boasting, that she will 〈◊〉〈◊〉 perswaded to any thing sooner by me, then ••••y other; But this I must let you know with∣••••••, that her humour is such as is not easily ap∣••••ased, when she believes her self really disobli∣••••d: and as the entire hopes of my Fortunes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 founded on the good will she hath towards ••••e, I shall never adventure to contradict her to ••••vance you, or hazard her displeasure by en∣••••avouring to possess her with an opinion of ••••ur sincerity. I am but poor and mean, added ••••e, and not to gain were to loose a great deal: ••wors•• what she hath promised me as a portion when

I am married a second time should fail, I migh•• live a Widow all the rest of my dayes; thoug•• I am yet young enough, and not so deforme•• but some body may think me worth their pur∣chase: But 'tis an old saying and a true on•• Without Money—She was going on thus wi•••• a right Widow-like tedious rabble; which sh•••• as Governess, acted to the life, when Don Ferna•••• interrupting her, said, Be pleased but to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 one piece of service I shall require of you, an•• I will put you in a condition above the hope•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your Ladies reward; and to convince you th•••• my words are not, Courtier like, my only deed•••• give me Pen, Ink and Paper, and you shall hav•• what you will under my hand; Jesus, Mounsieu•• sayes this feigned Governess, an honest ma•• word is as good as his bond: But to obey yo•• I will fetch you the Paper and Ink you desire; sh•• returned again with materials enough to hav•• drawn a bond of a Million of Gold, and D•••• Fernand was so Gallant, or at least had such 〈◊〉〈◊〉 moneths mind to Elvira, that he signs her 〈◊〉〈◊〉 blank, and leaves her to make her own condit••∣ons, thereby to oblige her with the greater co••∣fidence. This raised Victoria up to the Clouds she promises wonders, and told him, she wish she might be the unhappiest woman in th•• world, if she did do as much for him as sh•• would do for her self, and in this she spake 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great truth. Don Fernand leaves her fuller 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hopes then ever, and Rodrigo Santilane, her 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Steward, that pass'd muster for her Father, b••∣ing come to visit her to learn how her desig••

••ent on, she gives him an account of all, and ••hewed him the Paper subscribed, for which he ••ave thanks to heaven with her, finding all ••hings contribute so happily to forward their ••••tents. To loose no time, he went home to ••he house that Victoria had hired not far from ••on Pedros, as I before related: where he filled ••p the blank Don Fernand had given with a pro∣••ise of marriage attested with witnesses, and da∣••ed about the same time that Victoria received ••his faithless Gallant into her house and heart. ••••e was as skilful at his Pen as any man in Spain, ••••d had considered Don Fernands hand so well in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Copy of Verses of his own writing, which he ••••d bestowed on Victoria during his heat of love, ••r lust rather, that Don Fernand could not have ••istinguished the counterfeit Copy from the O∣••••ginal: Don Pedro de Sylva could not meet with ••••e Gentleman he sought, to know the verity ••f the information, but left a Ticket at his lodg∣••••g, and came back to his own, where that same ••ight Elvira unbosomed her secrets to her Go∣••erness, and vowed she would sooner disobey ••er Father, then yield her self up to be Don Fer∣••ands Wife, confessing withall that she was pre∣••••gaged to one Don Maradas a long while be∣••••re, and had in reason complied enough with ••er Fathers commands and her own duty, in ••utting a restraint on her first inclinations to ••••tisfie him, and since Don Fernands levity was ••ow made manifest, she thought she fafely ••ight re-sume her first affection, which could ••e interpreted no other then a resignation of

her will to Heavens decree, where certainly all marriages are made: You may believe Victoria fortified Elvira in these good resolutions, and spake as she intended for Don Fernand, but not as he expected. Don Diego de Maradas, said then Elvira to her, is much dis-satisfied with me, for having forsaken him, in obedience to my Fa∣ther; But the least inviting look from me, will bring him back again, were he at a greater di∣stance then D••n Fernand is from his Lucretia: Write to him Madam, said Victoria, and I shall willingly carry your Embassey: Elvira was transported with joy, to find her Governess so kind in her behalf; she commanded the Coach to be made ready for Victoria, who immediate∣ly went away with an Epistle for Don Diego, and being alighted at her reputed Father Santilanes, she made the Coach return, telling the fellow she would go a foot whither she was designed. Honest Santilane shew'd her the promise of mar∣riage he had drawn up, and she presently wrote two little Notes; one to Diego Maradas, the o∣ther to Pedro de Silva her Ladies Father, wherein she intreated him to repair to her house about some business of great importance, with the di∣rection where she dwelt, and signed Victoria Por∣tocarrero; whilst they were carrying these notes Victoria strips off her black weeds, puts on very rich Cloaths, pulls out her Locks (which were o•• the loveliest hair and colour that could be) and tricks her self up like a very Spark. Don Diego de Maradas came in a while after to know what business of such great concernment she could

have with him, who was a meer stranger to him; she received him very civilly, and was scarce sit down, when it was told her that Don Pedro de Silva was come to wait upon her. She intreated Don Diego to conceal himself in an Al∣cove, assuring him it would be much for his ad∣vantage to over-hear the discourse she should have with Don Pedro. He did as she injoyned him without more ado, more upon the account of her Beauty and brave meen, then any other expectation, and Don Pedro was admitted into Victorias Chamber, not knowing her, so much had these Adornments and fine Feathers chang∣ed the Bird that fed at his own Table: She in∣treated him to place himself in a Chair, whence Don Diego could easily over-hear all they spake, and then began in these terms. I think Sir, it will be most proper in the first place, to let you know who I am, to prevent those doubts that otherwise my Narration might raise in you. I am one of the Family of the Portocarrero's, born in the City of Toledo, where I was married at the Age of Thirteen, and became a Widow about six moneths after; my Father was of the Order of Saint James's Cross, and my Brother is a Knight of the Order of Calatrava. Don Pedro interrupted her, to let her know her Father was of his acquaintance, and a most intimate Friend. It rejoyces me extreamly, Sir, said she, to know this from your mouth, for I shall stand in need of many Friends to help me in my pre∣sent condition, as I shall inform you. After this she gave an account to Don Pedro of all that

had passed betwixt her and Don Fernand, and then shewed him the promise of Marriage counterfeited by Santillane: He had, no sooner read it, but she went on thus; No doubt but you know Sir, what Honour obliges Persons of my Quality to do in these cases: For though Justice should be partially deny'd me, yet have my Friends so much power and credit in these Countries, that they would presecute my inte∣rest to the highest. I thought it would be a be∣coming act, Sir, to make known my pretences to you, that you might put a stop o the inten∣ded Match you had design'd: Your Daughter is too worthy to be cast away upon such a faith∣less Match, and I believe you are so discreet, you will not rob me to bestow one upon her must prove her ruine, and be subject to that Divorce my 'Title will call for; were he a Grandee of Spain, replied Don Pedro, I would have nothing to do with him, if he were unjust and false: I shall therefore not only deny him my Daugh∣ter, but my House; and as for your self Madam, both my Friends and Credit shall be ready to assist you when ever you desire it: I had notice given me before, that he was a man would slip no opportunity of taking his pleasure, even to the hazard of his Reputation, and being of that vain humour, though you had no concern for him, he never should have my Daughter, whom Hea∣ven I hope will provide for in the Court of Spain, where she may make a better choice. Don Pe∣dro parted from Victoria having no more to say, and then she called Don Diego out of the Alcove,

where he stood listning to all they said; That spared her the labour of repeating her story, she delivered Elviras Letter to him, which even ra∣visht him for joy, and least he should be in some kind of perplexity to know how she came by it, ••he made a discovery of her Metamorphose to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Duegna, knowing he was as much concerned ••o keep it secret as her self. Don Diego, before he went from Victoria wrote an Answer to his Mistresses pleasing message, where the infinite ••ontent he expressed for his revived hopes, e∣••inced the affliction he had endured ever since ••he loss of her noble Society and Favour: He parted from the fair Widow likewise, and was no sooner gone, but she gets into her old robes ••gain, and returned to Don Pedros. In the inte∣••im Don Fernand de Ribera was gone to wait up∣on his Mistriss, and had taken his Cousin Antonio long with him, to endeavour to set all that to ••ights again, which had been charged against him by Victoria's feigned Letter. Don Pedro ••ound them together with his Daughter, who was non-plust when they both desired no better ••ustification, then only a due inquiry, whether ••ver such a Lady as Lucretia de Monsalvo were ••eard of in Sevil. They repeated the same ••hing to Don Pedro to clear themselves, to which ••e answered, that if that pretended engage∣ment with Lucretia were a fancy, it was so much ••he better and easier to be blown off; but that ••e had been newly with a Lady of Toledo, na∣••ed Victoria Portocarrero, to whom Don Fernand ••ad promised marriage, and to whom he was

indeed much more engaged, having been so ge∣nerously assisted by her, when he was rather an•• object of compassion then love being poor and naked, and had no Title to her favour but Cha∣rity, being a meer stranger; which he could not deny, since she had under his hand and Seal a•••• promise of Marriage from him, which he had seen; to which he added, That a person of Honour ought not to Court a Wife at Madrid, whilst he had one already at Toledo. At which words, he pulls the promise of Marriage out of his Letter case, as it was formally conterfeited; Don Antonio knows his Cousins writing, and Don Fernand mistaking it himself, though he were confident he had never given any, was quite confounded at the sight of it. The good man and his Wife withdrew after they had coldly bid them Adieu. Don Antonio quarrelled with his Cousin for employing him in this Treaty, when he had another on foot before: They took Coach together, where Don Antonio having made him confess his unhandsome proceeding with Victoria, reproved the hainous crime, and shewed the evil consequence it was like to be∣get; He told him he must not think of getting any Wife at Madrid only, but in any part of Spain, and it would prove a happiness if he could get himself out of the Briers by marrying Victo∣ria, and not forfeit his life with his honour; Victoria's Brother being a Person not likely to put up so foul a business without full satisfacti∣on; It was time for Don Fernand to keep silence, though his Consin continued these reproaches

His Conscience accused him sufficiently of trea∣••hery and of falsehood against a Lady that had so ••ighly obliged him, but this promise of mari∣••ge almost distracted him, not knowing by what ••trange enchantment they had made him grant 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Victoria being come back again to Don Pe∣••••ro's in her widdows attire, delivered Don Diego's Letter to Elvira; who told her, how the two Kinsmen had been there to justifie themselves; ••ut that they were since charged with other ••uess practises, then Fernands Love for the Se∣••••lian Lady. She afterwards related, what she new better then her Mistress, though she pre∣••ended to admire and detest those abominable ••ractises, whereof Fernand was made guilty. ••hat same day Elvira was invited to a Come∣••y, at one of her Neeces. Victoria who made ••er advantage of every occasion, hoped, if El∣••••ra would follow her Counsel, that this Come∣••y may prove favourable to her design. She ••old her young Mistress, that if she had any in∣••ination to see her Servant Diego, there was ••othing more easie; her Fathers house being ••e most convenient place that could be; and ••at since the Play was not to begin till late at ••••ght, she might if she pleased but to go forth little early, have time enough to speak with ••••m, and then goe to the Comedy time enough. ••••vira who really and heartily loved Don Diego, ••••d had not without much trouble and reluctan∣••y consented to entertain Don Fernands Court∣••ip at her Fathers perswasion and command, ••••d no aversion to what Victoria propounded:

Wherefore they hurried away in a Coach as soo•• as ever the old man was gone to sleep, and went to Victorias house. Santillane as Maste•• of the said house, together with Beatrize, who personated the Mother in Law, welcomed them very civily. Elvira sent a Ticket to Don Dieg•• which was soon delivered, while Victoria di•• spatched another privately away for Don Fer∣nand. in Elvira's name, wherein she made him beleeve it was in his power to compleat th•• Match, to which his merit engaged her to ad∣venture, as not desiring to render her self un∣happy for ever by loosing him, onely to pleas•• a Fathers crabbed humour. She gave him such particular directions in the same Note, how h•• might find the house, that it was impossible h•• should miss of it, which Paper was carrie•• a very little while after that other, from Elvir•• to Don Diego. Victoria wrote a third likewise which Santillane himself was to convey to D•••• Pedro de Silva, by which she informed him as true and trusty Governess, that his Daughte•• instead of going to the Comedy, would need stop at her Fathers house; and had sent for D•••• Fernand to consummate her marriage with him which she beleeving was utterly against his pu•••• pose and consent, she thought her self boun•• to give him notice, that he might know he wa•• not at all mistaken in that good opinion he ha•• of her honesty, when he first took her to be h•• Daughters Governess. Santillane likewise tol•• Don redro, his Daughter had charged him, t•• wish him not to come thither by any mean

without bringing an Algovazil along with him, which is an Officer we call a Commissary here at ••••aris. Don Pedro being in Bed, hasted to put ••n his Cloaths, being as much in wrath as ever ••hy poor drowsie creature was at his first wak∣••••g. But whilst he is dressing himself and send∣••••g for a Commissary, let us step back and see ••hat they are doing at Victorias. It fortuned ••at the Notes came safely to the brace of lovers ••ands. Don Diego having received his first, ••••me likewise first to the Rendezvou, Victoria ••et him at the door and conducted him up to Chamber, where she left him with Elvira. I ••ill not trouble you nor my self, with the re∣••tion of the endearing expressions which passed ••twixt these young Lovers. Don Fernands ••ocking at the door gives me not time enough, ••••ctoria lets him in her self, after she had mag∣fied the great service she did him by this at∣••ndance, for which the Amorous Blade gave ••ra thousand thanks, promising he would yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 more for her, then all his former promises ••liged him to. She Leads him to another ••••hamber, where she intreated him to stay a ••••ile for Elvira who was coming, and so lock't ••m in without any light, telling him his Mi∣••ess would needs have it thus, but onely till ••e could check her modest blushes, and then ••e would be visible agen. This done, Victoria, ••th as much haste as it was possible, attires her ••f in all her bravery, with as much exactness ••••d curiosity as the short time would admit. She ••es into the Chamber where Don Fernand was,

who had not the least suspicion but that it w•••• Elvira, being no less young then she, and h••∣ving Gloves and others sweets about her a••∣cording to the Spanish Mode of Perfumes ••∣mongst the Nobility. Hereupon Don Pedr•• the Commissary and Santillane arrive. They e••••∣ter into the Chamber where Elvira was in p••••∣vate with her Servant. The young lovers we•••• extremely surprized, Don Pedro at the first m••••∣tions of his wrath, was so far blinded with pa••∣sion, that he was ready to run the party th•••• row the Body with his sword, whom he took 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Don Fernand. The Commissary discovering was not he, but Don Diego, held back his A•••• and bid him have a care what he did, since it w•••• not the man he looked for, that was with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Daughter: But Signor Don Diego de Marad•••• a person of as great quality and wealth as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Don Pedro at this behaved himself like a discr•••• Gentleman, he quelled his first fury and chan••∣ing it into a milder temper, raised up his Daug••∣ter, who had cast her self upon her Knees at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 feet. He considered, that although this we•••• an act against his former intentions, yet in tru•••• it was as fair a Fortune as could be expected 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his dear Daughter. Santillane intreated Don ••••∣dro, the Commissary, and all those that were w•••• them in the Room to follow him; he led to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Chamber where Don Fernand was shut up w•••• Victoria. They commanded the door to be o••∣ned in the Kings Name. Don Fernand lett•••• them in; seeing Don Pedro attended with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Commissary, told them with a great deal of c••••∣fidence,

that he had no body with him but his Wife Elvira de Silva. Don Pedro answered he ••as deceived, his Daughter being engaged to ••nother party; and for you pursued he, you can∣••ot deny, but Victoria Portocarrero is your law∣••••l Spouse. Victoria then discovered her self 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her faithless Galant, who was astonished be∣••ond expression. She reproached his ingrati∣••••de, to which his silence was his onely plea, as ••ell as to the Commissary when he told them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 could do no less in duty then carry him away 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Prison. In fine, his remorse of Conscience, ••••ar of Imprisonment, together with Don Pedros ••••thortations, who minded him of his honour ••••d reputation, joyned to Victorias tears and ••••auty, nothing inferiour to Elviras, and above 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some sparks of generosity still remaining in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 heart, notwithstanding all his youth, love 〈◊〉〈◊〉 change, and the new flames kindled by El∣••••ras bright eyes, made him hearken to reason ••••d justice, and Victorias great deserts and claim. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tenderly embraced her, she being like to ••oon betwixt his arms, which no doubt but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 soft Kisses preserved her from. Don Pedro, ••on Diego, and fair Elvira shared in Victorias ••••ys; which infinitely transported both Santil∣••••••e and Beatrix to find their designs brought that perfection. Don Pedro applauded Don Fer∣••••nds goodness and wisdom for thus Nobly re∣••••ring the wrongs he had committed. The two ••••ung Ladies hugged each other with as great ••••stimonies of Love, as if they had been sisters, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Diego de Maradas made a thousand protesta∣tions

of obedience to his Father in Law, or h•••• that should be so in a short season. Don Pedr•• before he took his Daughter home with him made them plight their mutual faith and pro∣mises, and Engage that they should all com•••• and Dine the next day at his House; where fo•• fifteen days following he would indeavour 〈◊〉〈◊〉 disband their former troubles, by their futur•• pastimes and divertisements. The Commissa∣ry was invited too, who ingaged to make u•• one at their merry meeting, Don Pedro too him along with him, and Don Fernand remain∣ed with Victoria, who had as much reason ••••∣bless her good Fortune now, as she had cause t•• curse it formerly.