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SECT. XXXI.
WHen a Prime Herald, after Silence made,
Thus in the Emperor's Name, & Senate, said
This Slave, by Heavens especial Favor blest,
Streight by their Order here must be releast;
They also him a Golden Talent give,
And that at Rome as Free-born he may live:
The Lion him the Emperor doth present.
Joyful Applauses scale the Firmament.
But when Androcleus them his Story told,
Showers from the Galleries, Silver, Gems, and Gold,
Rain'd on his Head, and pour'd into his Hand.
Thus freed from cruel Death, and servile Bonds,
He from the Theater in Triumph led
His Friend releast, whilst thus the People said,
As they in busie Throngs about them prest;
The Man and Lion! see, the Host and Guest.
The Senates Gift, and what Spectators gave,
Turn'd to a Wealthy Citizen a Slave;
Recovering soon his Father's Morgag'd State,
His Houses, Jewels, and embezell'd Plate.
Andreas now Maria did espouse,
And solemn Nuptial, kept in his own House,
Fair Issue had, in Reputation dwelt,
Nor Storms of Persecution ever felt.