all dispatches and affairs to these seven Sages who acted all things as they were minded and gave the King what account they best thought for their purpose but above all thing they took care not to displease him so that in time they were in such high esteem and they were taken rather to be Lords of all England then Counsellours true it is that in the beginning they took so good order in the execution of justice that all things were done in good order but afterwards when they had tasted of the great gifts and presents that was usually made them they then were so desirous to heap up riches that they minded nothing else without respecting their honour or the zeal they should have to justice and among other inventions to raise mony they found out one than would raise them a world of riches at that time it was a custome in England for the Natives to give such credit to dreames that the believed the greatest part of their affairs and chiefly those of importance were divinely revealed to them in visions and dreams which they little or much understood according to to the goodness and sanctity of the persons who thus should dream so that when any one had dreamed of any thing that she could not understand they had recourse to the Sages whereof in England there was great plenty and for their advise carried great presents as if Gold and Silver would cause the true interpretation of dreams these seven Deputies or Governours of the Kingdome understanding of this that they might shew themselves the more knowing and more excellent in all things than any body else and more particularly in the interpretations of dreâ—ms under preâ—ence of takeiâ—g away the abuse which was done upon that account and that the people might not be decâ—ived in the interpretation of dreâ—ms tâ—ey published an Eâ—ict by which it was prohibited all persons to go to any to have interpretation of dreams but to them â—lves In persuance of which Eâ—â—ct a world of people came to them every dâ—y with great presents so that in short time these Lords were â—icheâ— in mony then the King himself who minding nothing but to take his pleasure fell into a vâ—â—y strange accident for having hiâ— Nâ—ts to be piâ—ched in a very pleasant Forrest to please the â—â—dies with a coâ—â—â— at hunting he was no sooner gone out of the gaâ—es of London to gâ— to this hunting but that his eye-sight was so troublâ—d that he could not see wherefore taking advâ—ce of his Physicians who looking on the Kâ—â—gs eyes found they were fair and without blemish and understanding that he had no pain in his head that he was not wounded that might occasion this blindness they knew not what to think of it but only advised the King to return to his Pallace and go rest himself and that in the mean time they would consult among themselves of this accident to remedy it as well as possibly they could according to this advise the King turned his bridle to return back but he was no sooner entered the City-gate but he recovered his sign without using any remedy whereupon being not only joyful but wondring with a merry heart he turned his bridle to go follow the company but he was no sooner out of the City but he was agen taken with his former blindness so that he was forced to turn back towards the Court and yet so soon as he was entred within the City-gates he recovered his former sight yet in regard the time was somewhat spent he put off the hunting untill aâ— other time The next day going to pass away some time at a garden that was without the City he was no sooner passed London Gates but he became blind as he had done the day before and no sooner was he returned in the City but he saw as cleerly as he had formerly done upon this account the Physitians were amazed they had many consultations but without any effect for in general it was thus the Kings sight was good so long as he was within the Citâ— but so soon as he was out of it he became blind and alâ—hough he went out at several Gates and had tryed them all yet he still continued blind so long as he was out of the City and when he returned he could see well enough In this condition this poor Prince remained for sometime and câ—â—â—d not finde any remedâ— which was a great â—ffliction to him to see himself confin'd to the City of London whereupon one day he called the seven Counsellors to whom he had committed the Government of the Kingdome remembring that they had given out that they could give a reason for all things and therefore he expresly enjoyned them that they should make known to him the cause of his blindness that he might finde a remedy without being thus confined within the walls of the City of London but these great Sages who knew as little of the causes as the King were so amazed that they could not speak answer a word to purpose yet however dissembling their ignorance they told the King that the case required to take some time of advice to consult well on the matter and to studdy on it that they might give him such an answer as might be to his content to this the King replyed I give you all this day to advise upon it and charge you that tomorrow morning you give me an answer but the Sages finding this time to be too precise and too short told him that the case was of thâ—t importance that it required a moneth of delay how a moneth said the King is this the great readiness which you boast to have by your â—kil presently to resolve all doubts and questionâ—â—gâ— and consult together and in fifâ—een dayes resolve me of what I desire and finde a remedy or I promise you I will make an example of you to all such as for the future shall he so bold as to abuse their Princes These poor unadvised Sages hearing this were much troubled yet since they had a terme of fifteen dayes they pluckt up their spirits hoping in that time to supply their ignorance by the knowledg of some other so that they assured the King that within the time prefixed they would give him the satisfaction he desired and having took leave of the King they each of them severâ—ly sent away messengers in Post to all parts to finde out some knowing person to whom they might apply themselves in this affair and their Messengers had good success they heaâ—d of the vertue and miraculous spirit of the child Merlin and of the sayings he used which surpassed all humain understanding This child was but young and was born miraculously so that it was believed that his Mother had conceived being a Virgin being with child by a Spirit or a Magician who it was reported had given her a great belly without touching her by means of a familiar Spirit but let it be so
unjustices in the world thinking of nothing but how to Tyranize â—v r the poor people and heap to themselves great treasure by the destruction of your Subj cts whâ—se complaint and cry having reached up unto heaven God by his just Juâ—gment hath sent you this blindness which you have when you are out of the City of London that as you have voluntarily deprived your self of the eyes of your understanding so that you will not see nor take notice of any thing but your particular pleasure instead of having your eyes employed for the good and quiet of your people you should be also deprived of your Corporal sight so that you may not see any thing out of your City of London Thus have I told you the Cause of your evil so that now without saying any more it is easie for you to remedy it but that you may be without any excuse I will prescribe to you the course you are to take know then that God would have you Chastise your self for your fore-passed negligence and by the same meanes that those who have exercised so much Tyrany over your people be punished for their crimes are beyond all comparison greater then yours True it is that you have very much failed but it was through Ignorance having put into the hands of others the adminstration and charge which God had comitted to your self indeed you might think them to be wise men and fit for such a government but they have maliciously â—ffâ—nded for they very well knew that their actions wherein they Tyranizâ—d over this Kingdom were contrary to God and nevertheless their insatiablness and avarice have continued therefore you ought to amend your self and that they suffer death and I assure you if you act this justice upon them your evil will leave you and if you will not I advertise you that the Judgments of God will increase upon you so as to darken your heart and I â—ell you there is no wâ—y to extinguish these seven fire balls but by the heads of these seven and that you may haâ—â— a proof of what I say make a tryal of the greatest for aâ— you have seen the more you endeavour to extinguish it with water or other liquor so much the more violently 〈◊〉 burneth as you have already made tryal caâ—se the head of the principal that is the oldest and most inveterate of these Sâ—gâ—s to be cut off and you will presently see that this great fire ball will be extinguished The King having very attentivly heard the discourse of Merlin some times blushed and then agen became pale and â—e found himself touched to the life and yet however acknowledged his fault for having continued so long without taking care of the affairâ— of his Kingdom he began to sigh and groan entreating the good Merlin that he would pray to God for him that his Majesty would forgive him his faults you need not doubt of that answered Merlin for in performing what I have told you your offences shall be pardoned without the intercession of any and on the contrâ—ry if you do not perform it a greater vengeance of God is prepared for you since now you câ—nnot pretend the cause of Ignorance The King did think it very strange to put those to death whom he had raised to such greatness and of whom he had severall times had experience on many occasions to be very wise but considering and viewing with his eyes the matter of the Cauldron and having a remorse of conscience for the great fault which he had commited which put him in fear of a more sharp vâ—ngance according to the threatenings of Merlin he therefore resolved to make a trial of the principall of the seven Philosophers and thereupon causing him to be called pretending to conferr with him about what Merlin had told him he ordered his head to be presently and privatly cut off which being done the great fire ball in the middle that did cast out more fire than the rest was of it self extinguished This being seen by the King without any more delay he did the same by the rest causing them to come one by one and as one head was cut â—ff so one fire ball went out so that the last was no sooner beheaded but all the fire was extinguished there was no appearance neither of balls nor Cauldron which was not materâ—call as Merlin said but it was of fire although it seemed to be of mettle as other Cauldrons are and the earth where it had been before was as cool and fresh as in other places This being done Merlin ordered the Kings Chamber to be put to rights and caused the bed to be placed where it had formerly been and because it was then late he told the King that he should rest contented and take his ease for that night and that the next day they would go out of the City of London where he should perceive his deliverance and healing which should be then seen and known of all the world The next morning the King arose early as joyfull as might be and sent to all the Prâ—nces and Barrons and Gentlemen of his Court that they should be ready to accompany him for he would that morning go pass the time out of the City of London Every one merâ—aâ—led at â—he news because the Kâ—ng had so long continued without going out of â—he City for the trouble to find himself blind being out of the City for the matter of the Caâ—ldron was not yet divulged or known and although it had been it would have been accoâ—nted as a fable and especially by thoâ—e who believe no more than what they see The King then being mo need on the fairest horse â—n hiâ— stable did set râ—wards having Merlin by his side whâ— was in homely habâ—â— for notwithstanding all his knowledge he would have no other Clothes but went in poor â—ayment according to the Condition of his birth not regarding Clothes nor riches The King did all the way discourse with Merlin which his Princes wondered at to see him thus taken up with a poor lad without speaking one word to all the Nobility that follâ—wed him and being come to the City Gate Mâ—rlin going before said to the King Sir as I have served you as a Phisitian so I will shew you che way to rejoyce and the great occasion you have for it in having recâ—vered your sight to the great content of your people And yet if you will speak the truth although you had some hopes of your cure yet you were not so certain as now at this time you make experience of it And going forwards out of the Gâ—te he tuâ—ned about to the King who was also issued 〈◊〉 and looked about towards all parts believing himself entred into a new life to see himself restored to that which he had so long lost withoâ—t knowing how and which he had so often endeavoured to recâ—ver but in vain Whereupon Merlin said to him Sir do you
or not the child was no sooner born but he began to let the world know that he had more than humain knowledg so that in his very Cradle he speak the most admirable things in the world whether it was in resolving questions or foretelling thingâ— to come or describeing things past as authentically as if he had seen them and he â—pake nothing but he gave a good reason for it that it was not p ssible to imagine that any thing could be contradictory to his reasons these Sages then purposed to go finde the young Merlin to take his advice how they clear themselves from the Labrinâ—h wherein they were involved and they travellâ—d so long that at last they câ—me to the place where he resided who before had fore-told their coming to his Mother and several others advising his Mother to be ready for the arrival of the seven who were called Sâ—ges should occasion him to go to Court where he should continue a long time to his Mâ—thers great advantage and to the gâ—eat diâ—advanâ—age of those that came for him Thâ—se Philâ—sophers then were no sooner arrived at Merlins lodging but they had great experience of hâ—s divine knâ—wledg which put them in good hopes nay gave tâ—em sâ—me assuâ—ance that they mighâ— know from the châ—ld Merlin the certainâ—y of what they eâ—qâ—ireâ— afâ—er for jusâ— as they came to his house it hâ—pnâ—d that near to thâ— plâ—ce where Merlin was thâ—râ— pâ—ssâ—d by a mâ—â— who went in gâ—eat hâ—â—â— whom Merlin called by his name the Trâ—vell r â—â—â—ear ng â—imself called turned back and seeing â—â—aâ— thâ—re was no b dy that be knew hâ— turnâ—d â—bâ—ut to pr â—câ—â—â—on iâ— hâ—â— wâ—y but Merlin callâ—d hâ—m by his name 〈◊〉 câ—ying out Galgo â—â—r 〈◊〉 was his nâ—mâ— look back for he whom yâ—u go to seâ—k it London is now here where you shâ—ll undâ—rstand mâ—re tâ—â—n yâ—u expect Galgo hearing himself â—amed and uâ—derstanding the reâ—son why 〈◊〉 went to London which he had told no body of wâ— aâ—â—z d â—ut 〈◊〉 more after he had heard what 〈…〉 Merlin â—â—id to ther tâ— him for Merlin 〈◊〉 â—oâ—k◠〈◊〉 nâ—t yoâ— g◠〈◊〉 London to carry half an 〈…〉 to the Kâ—ngs Sâ—ges to know the inâ—erprâ—â—â—tion a laâ—â— drâ—am â—t youâ—s yâ—u have savâ—d yâ—â—r labâ—urâ—râ— they are all â—even here and yet yoâ— shâ—ll â—now nâ— more of thâ—m concerning your dâ—â—â—◠〈…〉 you have already from me yâ—u may underâ—â—â—â—nd the â—ruth withouâ— paâ—â—ing â—rom youâ—g â—d for I will have nothing from you but I will instr ct you in the way to be rich In the first place I would not have you tell me you dream for I know it better then your self it is true that this last night two houers before the sun rising being lâ—id in your bed you supposed that being siâ—ting in yâ—ur Cellar you become so very dry so that all the drink â—n your house could not quench your thirst whereupon a fountain did arise in the Middle of your Cellâ—r having the fairest water and the cleerest that ever eye beheld to which you suddenly ran and having tasted of the water you found it to be the bâ—st watâ—r in the world so that your thirst was qâ—enched and you caused all your family to drink who like you received the greatest content they ever had Now to know the meaning of this dream you are going to find the Kings Sages without acquainting any body with this adventure Galgo hearing particular recitall of that which he had seen in his dream and knowing that he had noâ— spoken a word thereof to any person he was surprized that he believed this to be a dream as well as that which he had dreamed of the fountain and although he was thus astâ—nâ—shed yet he affirmed that every thing had â—â—ssed pâ—rticularly in such manner as the infant Merlin had recâ—â—ed and that for no other cause he was taking a jâ—urnâ—y to London Now you shâ—ll understand the â—â—st â—aâ—d Merlin for this is the principall â—f y ur cause The alteration which you saw and which in truth prâ—ssâ—s you is the great desire you have to gâ—t wâ—a â—h that you be rid of your poverty mâ—â—â—tain yoâ— famiâ—y better for the future the fâ—â—ntain which â—â—st sâ—â—ve you to quench this thirst is in your hâ—usâ— as your dream hath demonstrated and therefore â—â—tâ—â—n wi h all dilligence and dig where you thought the fountaine was for I assure you there you shall find so great a quantity of Silver that you shall have sufficient for your self and family but have a care that you be not robbed hereafter The Philosophers hearing what Merlin had said knew not what to think and doubted of the truth of what he had spoken or whether this was not a design or plot laid to cause the world to believe that Merlin was a diviner but he also understanding their thoughts thus spake I would not have you give credit to my speeches further then your own eyes shall be witness and therefore go along with this good man and see him find this treasure and then return to me that I may go with you to the King whose grief is not unknown to me without your relation of it for I know from whence it proceeds and what remedy is convenient for his Cure and I assure you that we shall come to London the fourteenth day which is the last but one of the fifteenth which is limited to you to answer the King so that you shall be at London time enough the Philosophers wondred greatly to see that Merlin knew already for what cause they were come and the term the King had appointed and would willingly have discoursed of their business but Merlin would not hear them but desired them to go see the good mans treasure and that they sh â—ld have a care that they did not touch a peny of it that afterwards they should come to him who would then be ready to go with them to the King The Philosophers hearing this without alighting from their horses they followed the good man Galgo whose house was but a few miles from that place so that they came thither the next morning Alighting from their horses they went into the house with him when he presently began to dig in the middle of the Cellar where he had in his dream seen the fountain to rise But he had not digged very deep but he met with a great quantity of Meddals of Silver after that he found several vessels of Silver the fairest in all the world under which he yet found so great a quantity of Ingoâ—s of Silver that you could hardly meet with so much treasure in one place together And now the Philosophers believed this to be no counterfeit matter for the King himself could not have stored so much Silver together without great thrift and along time and being thus astonished they returned to Merlins quarters to whom they related all that they had seen confessing that by experience they
Aphrodisia had sent him endeavouring to cause him to view them severally but the young Prince not having the patience to hear the Slave less to look on the presents with an angry Countenance thus spake to him if these presents come from the Emperour my Father which I cannot believe I am constrained to say that he is not of such Prudence and Vertue as he hath been esteemed for for does he not well know that these Curiosities and Delicaâ—â—es are direct contrary to the study wherein he hath employed me and which I shall not forsake these Bawbles belong to Women and not to Men of his degree and quality I hope his new wise hâ—â—â— nâ—â— altered the temper he was of as I read of soâ—â— Women who have over-ruled wise and valiâ—◠〈◊〉 as for my part I shall not receive these presenâ— by no means therefore carry them back and say to the Emperour my Father that he must â—end me other presents if he would have me accept of them and say as much to the Empress whom on my behalf you may thank for the good will which she bears to me and that I may not be ungrateful to her that I can do no less but freely tell her that it would more redound to her profit and honour to govern her â—ouse well then to loose so much precious time in these vain idle works from whence she can reap no honour but blame The Slave being ravished with the great continence of Prince Erastus and much more with his wise discourse knew not what to say and less what to do for to carry back the presents he durst not fearing he should highly offend the Empress his Mistress and how to cause the Prince Erastus to accept of them he knew not but on the contrary he found he had no opportunity to discover the principal point for which he was sent so that not being able to speak one word he remained as in a maze But the seven Phylosophers came to him in good time who having understood as well of the Prince Erastus as of the Slave all that had passed between them having first commended the Constancy and Magnaminity of their Schollar for refusing things so delectable to the eye as being repugnant to their Phylosophical severity yet nevertheless perswaded him to accept the presents which the slave said were sent as well from the Emperour as the Empress that he might not anger or displease either and this he at last though unwillngly assented to The Slave being thus dispatched entered into new considerations what he should do with the Empress for to let her know the business in the very manner as it had passed he feared would put her out of her wits and that he should be accounted an ignorant fellow and knew not how to perform the charge that had been given him and of which at the beginning he had given so good hopes and never the less seeing himself frustrate of all means to accomplish his desires he foresaw that instead of great rewards which he hoped for if the matters should take effect there was danger that the Empress might doe him some mischeif and having a great while considered what he had best to do he in the end resolved to keep his Mistress in good hopes to get what he could from her and keep himself in her favour And now being come to her presence he with a smileing countenance made his obeysance and told her quite contrary to what had passed between him and the Prince Erastus assuring her that the Prince had received her present with very great affection and and for a greater expression of love had very amorously kissed every particular peice that had been presented had expresly charged him to give the Empress a thousand thanks and on his behalf to entreat her not to displace him from her heart until his return to Rome which he would hasten as much as possible and by all means to accomplish The poor Princess giving credit to the Slave and believing the loue of Erastus to be greater towards her than the Slave had reported having a good opinion of her beauty did so enflame the fire which was already Kindled in her heart that out of the abundance of love without regarding her degree and quality she gave great presents to the Slave to let him know how great an esteem she had for him in regard of the pains he had taken in his late negotiation making him great and magnificent promises if he should manage her affairs so as she might attain to her desired wishes and although the Slave had lost all hopes of performing any thing by reason of the great continance which he saw in the Prince Erastus yet nevertheless that he might gain somewhat on the Empress he nourished hâ—r hopes with a certain issue of her design in such a mnnner that this poor and too credulous Princess seeing the sweetness of her desires too long dâ—lâ—yed retired into her Cabinet not permitting any body to accompany her wâ—eâ—â— casting her self upon her Bed with scaldding sight câ—lling on her beloved Erastus and beâ—â— overcome with these thoughts she fell into a 〈◊〉 sleep wherein she believed that her beloved Erâ—stus was come purposely to find her whereupon â—hâ— fiâ—â—eâ—ly cryed out Aâ— my Life you are very wellcome wherein all my love and all my good depeâ—ds Aâ— which cry all her Ladies and Damsels came running asking of the Empress what wâ—s the matter who being awakened and knowing what had hapned answered that having laid her self on the Bed to sleep a little she had seen in a Vision a furious Serpent who leapt upon her to devour her and she not having any way to defend her self had cryed out the Ladies and Damsels and other her Attendants replyed that no grâ—at heed was to be given to Dreams and and to remove this Fancy from her they began to sing and play on instruments in which exercise they employed themselves till it was time to go to Supper CHAP. III. The Empress Aphrodisia writ a Love Letter to Prince Erastus which he having read tore in peices with anger threatning the Slave to chastise him if ever he again attempted to appear before him about any such affair The Slave keeps the Empress in hopes telling her the contrary to what had passed SUpper time being come and the Empress being seated at the Table with the Emperour she was more melancholly then ordinary and took no pleasure in the pastime that was presented to her but sighed so vehemently that the Emperour took notice of it and being troubled asked her the cause of her sighing to which she answered that the remembrance of a horrible dream which had hapned about break of day was the cause of her present sadness and indeed she said true for it was Erastus whom she had seen in this Vision although she had told it to be a horrible Serpent the Emperour then being willing to put this Fancy out of her
the Son of the King of Hungary fell sick and his destemper encreasing more and more upon him all the Physitians of that Kingdom gave him over for dead the King being troubled to lose his Son was advertised that if his Son might escape by Physick Hipocrates only could cure him for this skilful Physitian was renowned through all the World by means of his great knowledg and having conferred with the Queen about the matter who was also very sad for the sickness of the Prince her Son and very desirous of his recovery advised with all diligence to send Ambassadours to Hipocrates with great presents to indâ—re him besides far greater promises which the said Ambassadours were charged to make him to come and cure the young Prince of Hungary who without his help would unavoidably perish The Ambassadors being come to Hipocrates and having declared their charge and delivered their presents which the Kâ— g had sent which he kindly received he thus answered that he was as much troubled as the King their Master for the desire he had to do him humble service in regard that he could not go and therefore he entreated that his Majes y would excuse him by reason of his inability in respect of his great age he being now decriped and diseased in his body but however he would fully satisfie the desire of their Master by an only Nephew which he would send who being very â—kâ—lâ—ul being alwayes brâ—d up with him and prâ—ctised under him in such manner that he knew him â—â—ffiâ—iâ—nt for this cure and that thereâ—ore that the Kâ—â—g should not disesteâ—m him for hiâ— youthfulness for he should find him very able in hiâ— uâ—dâ—â—taking The Ambassador seeing Hipocrates not to be in a cond tion to travell and having a very good opinion of his Nephew took him wâ—th them and pâ— ceeded so on the r journey that they arived at the â—â—â—â—rt where thâ—y were well received oâ— the King and Queen and that they might not loose time the K â—g condâ—cted the Physition to his Sâ—n But whâ—n he had seen him and heard him speâ—k knew by his â—â— s gâ—ony and other signs that he was not the Kâ—â—gâ— Sâ—n and therefore before he would do any thâ—ng in â—rder to the cure being desirâ— uâ— to be resolved of the doubt he had conceived he desired to speak with the Queen alone whereupon being privately with her in her Chamber he thus began Madam if you please to tell me the truth of what I shall ask you I will in short time restore your Son to his former hâ—alth otherwise I can give you no assâ—rance of it The Queâ—n promised him with an Oath so desirous sâ—e was to see heâ— Son well not to conceâ—l any tâ—ing thâ—t he should d sire of her Then the Physitian said I dâ—sire only to know if the Father of the sick Child be here to this the Queen â—nswered do you think that any but the King is his Father to this the Physitian replyed since you are not pleased to tell me the truâ—h Iâ— will be gon and your Son will dye The Queen hearing this resolved so as she might save her Sons life to tell tâ—e Physitiâ—n that which she could not upâ—n any account lâ—t any Person in the world know and having taken on Oath of the Physitian to be secret in what she should tell hâ—m she blushing for shame thus began I would excuse my self but you are not ignorant of the sad condition that married Women are in who are Childless for in truth that is their only riches and content for the Husbands who can hâ—ve no Children of their Wives do hate them a◠〈◊〉 it were her fault and for this cause the poor Women are disdained slighted and ill used and their Husbands seek out other Women that they may have a Bastard to succeed them after their death This being my case having lived long with the King without any Child and being therefore accounted barren and slighted by every one I purposed to know whether the defect was in me or my Husband whereupon I having â—eâ—n the Miller come into the Couâ—t to bring in Câ—rn to the Granery and believing that to be a good oppertunity to execute my design because the King was gone a hunting and all my Women dispersed some in one place and some in an other I caussed him to enter into my Cabinet pretending to speak with him alone where he had to do with me and that several times after so that I perceived my self to be with Child and that I might the better wier the matter I caused the King to lye frequently with me so that at the time oâ— my Child-birth it was supposed to be the Kings Child and so it is still and after this I was better respâ—cted of the King and honoured by all wherefore I pray you to save him which I got by such art to my great peril The Physitian smileing to himself answered Madam take no further care I will restore your Son safe and sound and thereupon after many remedies which he gave to the sick person causing him to be nourished with gross meats according to his natural constitution he became well The Physitian then seeing his Patient in good case and out of danger and that it was time to return he took leave of the King and Queen who presented him with Gold and Silver and gave him good and honourable Company to attend him to his Uncle to whom he relâ—ted every partâ—cular that had hapned by which relation Hipocrates knew the great profit which his Nephew had made in so little time for which cause instead of takeing pleasure in regard he had so taught him he conceived a mortal hatred against him and doubting that the skil of his Nephew would deminish his renown in regard he was to succeed him and to possess a great many books which Hipocrates had composed according to the great experience of his time which would encrease the fame of his Nephew and diminish his own if his receits should come into his possession he therefore purposed privately to kill him and thereupon having caused him to come into his garden where he had all sorts of herbs he demanded if he knew their several vertues to which his Nephew answered yes he desired him to pluck up one of them which he named and as the young man stooped to the ground not doubting any thing the envious old man struck him between the head and shoulders with a hatchet which he had hidden under his gown and slew him at the first blow and to conceale his cruelty he buried him in the same place where he had killed him It hapned as God is just and leaves nothing unpunished that soon after Hipocrates fell sick of the bloody flux so violent that no medicine could stop it But Hipocrates to make tryal of his skil caused a great Vessel to be filled with water whereinto he having cast a certain powder he drew out several
her to put in execution that which she had promised seeing she had such certain proof of her Husbands patience the Mother understanding how matters went made as if she were very glad and told her Daughter that truly she had reason to keep her word with her but that she might have greater assurance and some clerer proof of his heart she desired one tryal more of his patience promising and swearing to her daughter that if her Husband then continued in that temper she would immediately and without any delay give her the content she desired And what other proof would you have said the Daughter I think what we have already is very sufficient but for ought I see all your discourses tend only to prolong the content which you have promised to give me why did you not at first tell me that you would not meddle in it and then I had took an other course Daughter said the Mother do not take it ill for what I do is not to deny you my assistance but to accommadate your honour and my own also the first tryal that you made was upon a Plant and therefore you proceeded to a second upon a beast now I would have you make a third proof upon men what is it you mean said the Daughter that I should kill some body it is somewhat difficult for a woman to do but if there be no other way to attain my desires I shall not question but to perform it God forbid answered the Mother for I do not intend any such matter but this is my meaning that as you have already offended your Husband so now in the last tryal the displeasure you shall do him shall not only extend to him but also to the Company and this must be done in somewhat of as great importance as was that of the Lawrel or Bitch which you killed and I have thought how and what it shall be You know your Husbands birth day is very near and that he usually makes a great feast on that day for his Friends I would have you then when the Table is covered and the victuals upon it and every one is seated that you arise pretending to look for somewhat and that by some means or other you throw down the Table and all that is upon it and if your Husband lets this pass without being revenged on you I promise you and swear to you that the very day you shall do this I will content you in that thing which above all things in the world you most desire the young woman thought the time long although it was but three dayes but she resolved to wait in the mean time considering with her self the manner of what she was to do hoping to have a better issue for this third enterprise than she had for the other twâ— the desired day being come the Gentleman caused great preparations to be made to entertain those guests he had invited so that there was very good company and of the greatest Lords of all the Country the Tables being spread and covered in such manner as is usual for Persons of his quality and the hour being come to sit dowâ— which was the desiâ—ed time for this young woman not for the hunger which she had but for the great desire which she had to satisfie her self of somewhat else besides vâ—ctuals every one took their places according to their degrees and among others the young woman was seated at the upper end of the Table as it is usual for Ladies and as the victuals was a serving she fastned her keys to the table-cloath and having thus done pretending to be in haste to go look for something she arose and in her riseing she pull'd down the Table and all that was upon it whereupon the Gentleman being angry asked wherefore she had thus thrown down the Table I did perceive said she that some body had put a strange knife at your trencher and I very well knowing that you could not endure to use any knife but your own I therefore arose up to look it and I know not how the Table caught hold of me so that it was thrown down all the company endeavoured to laugh away the mischance and pass it for a jest and withall every one very much commended the great care the young woman had of her Husband The Gentleman being very discreet took no notice of it at present that he might not disturb the Company but caused the Table to be taken up and other service brought for there was plentiful provision of all sorts of victuals and thus was the day passed away without thinking of any thing but pass-time wherefore the young woman had a world of joy in her heart beleiving now that there was no obstacle that could hinder her content so that she only waited the good hour when every one would be gone that she might go to her Mother and give her order for that which she so ardently desired but the Guests kept company together all the day with the Gentleman that she being forced to continue with them by necessity deferr'd going to her Mother till the next morning not questioning but then all things would fall out to her expectation But she sound it otherwise for although the Gentleman had passed away all his birth day that he might not trouble his guests without takeing notice of the shame which his wife had caused him yet however he had not forgotten it nor the other two outrages which she had done formerly and therefore being a wise man he purposed to chastise his wife without making any noise and therefore the next morning finding her awake and that she went to dress her self to go to her Mother he commanded that she should not rise whereupon the good wife being astonished replyed that she had a minde to rise having slept enough already but the Gentleman answered her that the reason why he would have her lye in bed was for her good and that it was convenient for her to do so that she might take a medicine that he would give her for what cause said she for I need no medicines for God be thanked I am well and lusty you are toâ— lusty said he and the cause of it is a certain superfluous blood that boyles in your body which at every turn causes you to play the fool which is to my displeasure and a shame to you do you remember the fair Lawrel which you did cut up the other day which I loved above all the trees of my Garden a little while after you killed my Bâ—tch which was the pleasantest beast I ever had in my house yesterday you threw down the Table where there was so good company without considering the trouble you put them all too to my great shame on my birth day Now if I should let all this pass I know the fourth offence would exceed all the rest but I have a purpose to cure you and thereupon causing a good fire to be
knew more to be in hime then they thought any man could be endowed withal praying him according to his promisâ— to go to the Court with them before the time should be elapsed Question not that said he for I shall be there to soon for your benefit they understood not what he meant by this answer but he who understood how all things would happen gave them this slight knowledge of it And now Merlin and his Mother began their Journey in Company of these seven Philosophers and by the way discoursing with them of many things he gave them such reasons for every thing he said that they were ravished with his discourse and so long they travelled that in the evening of the fourteenth day they arived at London according to what Merlin had foretold The next morning these Philosophers went to make their râ—verence to the King telling him that they were câ—me within the perfixed time to make â—lâ—er to 〈◊〉 not only that which he haâ— asked of them â—â—m all other maâ—ters as well past present to comâ— What said the Kiâ—g have you tasted some divinity since I saw you that you can foreâ—ell things to câ—me it will be enough for you to resolve the 〈◊〉 I have demanded without bragging of so much for I purpose not to endure you abuses no longer Sir it is no abuse said the Ph losophers for we shall tell you nothing but the truth as by experience you shall find but to acquainâ— you with the truth of the matter this is not done by â—ur own knowledge 〈◊〉 by a divine and miraclâ—ous Child of whom we having â—â—ord we sought him out for your service and we hâ—vâ— alreadly found such proof of his divine spirits â—a iâ—â—od â—oâ— been possible for any man to have pâ—râ—vâ—â—d us to it if we had not seen it with our eyes And thereupon they related to the King how all had happened about Galgo and the promise he had made them to acquaâ—â—â— the King with the cause of his blindness and the means for his recovery whereupon the King was so well pleased as you may veâ—y well imagin that it seemed impâ—ssible to express the jâ—y which he had in his heart and therefoâ—e he presently commanded that the Child Merlin should be brought into his presence But when he saw that he was so young he suspected that these Philosophers did only put an abuse upon him which Merlin very well knowing said to the King Sir before I shall tell you the cause of your blindness when you are out of the City of London and the meanes to deliver you I will shew you to your own sight what hath been the cause oâ—â—t aâ—d what keâ—pâ— you in this Câ—ndition so that you seeing by experience that I know the cause of your evil which hath been hid and unknown to your self and all others of your Kingdom you will be the more reaâ—y to give credit to what I shall further say 〈◊〉 you Hereupon having caused the bed whereon the King usually slept to be removed he said thus Sir cause sombody to dig under it for there you shall find a great Cauldron that without fire burnes continually and which is maintained by seven great balls of fire whereof there is one in the Middle which is larger than the others who are all of an equal bigness and ere all placed about this great 〈◊〉 Now Sir you may please to understand that so long as the fire of these balls shall endure you shall always find your self blind when you are out of the City of London and yet it is impâ—ssible to extinguish it by nature nor by any other liquor whatsoever for the more water shall be cast upon this fire to much the more violently will it burn and further great care must be taken not to remove this burnâ—ng Câ—ldron from the place where it is for iâ— will not only burn those that shall attempt to remove it but you will also suffer more mischief if it should be removed for you would become absolutly blinde without armedy as wel within the City as without up n these words of Merlin the King commanded to dig in the place where his bed was but they had not digged very deep but they who first began were forced to leave off by reason of the great smoak that issued out It is enough said Merlin for the force of the fire will discover the rest and so it came to pass for it was not long before the earth flew up like sparks of fire and then first was seen the great ball of fire which was it the middle and soon after the rest discovered themselves one after an other so that in less then an hours time there was plainly seen the bâ—ring Cauldron and the seven fire balls which did cast up their fire a great height At this sight the King was amazed and so were all the Princes of the Court who were very desirous to understand the mistery of this miraclous fire and more especially the King who earnestly asked of Merlin from whence this fire could proceed Sir answered he this is a great secret of God who will not have iâ— revealed but tâ— those whom iâ— Concerns and therefore if you would know the truth let every one depart for to your self only will I declare this mistery Hereupon every one by the Kings Command left the room and none remained there but the King and Merlin who thus began his discourse Sir your Majesty ought out to think that she things â—f this world happen by chance as some Ignorant persons have said but you are certainly to believe that nothing happens but by the providence of God who having distributed his charges to every one according to his good will and pleasure he willeth and expecteth that man should perform his endeavour in the vocation to which he hath called him and therefore having committed to you the administration and government of this Kingdom his pleasure was that taking care of the affairs thereof and performing the duty of a good Prince you should procure the good and repose of the affaires of your people as for some time you did But after that you did so much give your self to pleasures that leaving the charge to others of those affairs which according to Gods will should pass through your hands you were kept from the true knowledg thereof so that the good justice that had been in this Kingdom hath been altered and your good subjects are opressed and on the conâ—r ty they who should be examplarily punished not only escape by means of their money but also are proved with estates and offices justice is to those that will give most and finally all things go contrary to what they ought All this evil proceeds from no other caâ—e but that you being unwilling to be troubled with state affairs have left the mannagment of all to these seven who under pretence of the name of Sages committ the greatest extorâ—ions and
flee but the Officers came timely enough to seize on her and secure her and her wicked Chamber-maid she seeing her self taken and bound and knowing in whose custody she was freely confessed the fact saying she very well knew the cause why she was taken and particularly related how she had used her deceased Husband that she might be rid of him and how she had kill'd him with her own hands whereupon she was led to the Governour where she reiterated and confirmed her disposition further adding that she repented she had endured so much and that she had delayed his death so long and that if it were to do again she would do it The Governour hearing this being much troubled to see so fair a young woman so obstinate in her wickedness which she did not endeavour to excuse but rather to justifie he therefore condemned her to be burnt alive at the common place of Execution in Modena and that her Chambermaid who had not only kept her counsel but bin her assistant and companion should also suffer with and accompany her in death and this sentence was the next day executed this wretched woman not shewing the least repentance for so wicked a crime And this may be the very case of the Queen of Germany for I am very confident that no cause hath induced her thus miserably to calumniate the King her Husband but only an earnest desire to have him dispatched out of her sight True it is this woman is more cunning endeavours to have more assurance then she of Modena for she would be assured of the protection and safeguard of the Empire that she may with more safety execute her wicked design wherefore my opinion is that she ought not to be protected in so wicked an action but that in short an answer should be returned her that the Roman Empire is puissant enough not only to defend it self from those who shall dare to assault it but also for to punish those that shal attempt any unjust action whereby this perverse Princess may know that we well enough understand the reason of her writing this Letter and that therefore she should forbear acting of those things that deserve punishment lest she serve as an example to others who shall attempt the like And it is my earnest wish that there were none like her at Rome and then I should not have occasion to continue my discourse and then Sir you and wâ— that are your servants should not be put to the trouble we this day are at on the â—ccasion of Prince Erastus for certainly if the câ—use were searched to the bottom it would be found to be quite different than his mother in 〈◊〉 hâ—th iâ—sly imputed it to cause him to do so that she may with the more ease contrive the same against you and bâ— out of fear and danger of yâ—ur Sâ—ns heâ— g revâ—â—â—â—d on her this Sir or some such curse is the only râ—â—son whâ—ch at present is to me unknown but I can affiâ—â— as you will in conclusion sâ—â—d that Erastus â—â—â—nocâ—nt not only of this fact but of â—ll other vâ—i â—â—â—actions if the hasty execution of a rash sentence givâ—n against him dâ—â—h not hinder the knowledg of the truth to prâ—cure which I shall follow the Nature of the Gentleman of Modena's Dâ—g and the example of my Companionâ— who have noâ— ceased not do not yet cease to crye that order may be observed and if you are not pleased to open your ears to the advertisements which we give you have a care that our clamours be thought hereafter to be to as little purpose as the Howlings of the good dog were to his Master to discover the truth of the fact when there was no remedy Open your eyes and your eares Sir while it is yet time without precipitating on an action that may cause a too late vain repentance if you believe that Erastus is guilty of the crime wherewith he is accused we are of a contrary opinion yet none of us are upon certainties therefore if you put him to death you will be accounted throughout all the world to be a wicked unjust cruel Prince wherefore let me prevaile with you to do that which you have so often intended to remit the cause to the trial of the Senate to proceed according to right reason justice if it proves to be so as the Empress hath falsly alledged that Erastus be â—o dâ—â—â—â—ed thâ—n you may execute him and us also who 〈◊〉 been his â—â—â—tors without incurring any infamy And on the contrary if his Innocence doth appear as I believe it will you will not be deprived of a Son and the Empire of a Successor The Oration of good â— Igathus was pronounced with such earnestness thâ—â— all the Senate stood up entreating the Emperor to 〈◊〉 the advice of the Philosopher and 〈…〉 counsel could be given in a case so difficult 〈…〉 also by reason of the learned speeches which the Philosopher Agathus had made the Emperor was constrained to put a stop to the execution of the sentence of Erastus for that day but he was troubled to hear the Empress so openly blamed before the Senate And as for the Queen of Germany it was concluded to give her such an answer as the Philosopher had directed who gained very great honour in this Counsel for that he had discovered the intention of this Queen of Germany wch could be no other but what he had describ'd in regard there was no other advise if any rebellion in Germany whereupon the Counsel arose and every one retired to their houses expecting to hear the cause of Prince Erastus which had been left to the tryal of the Senate and it was the wishes and desires of all that the cause should prove as the Philosophers had averred and not according to the accusation and imputation of the Empress whose Tyranny was hated by many on the contrary every one admired the good carriage which they had only once seen in Prince Erastus who was esteemed and loved by all the world This History or example of the Philosopher Agathus is according to the original in the Italian and French but there being an other story to this purpose I shall thus relate it Our Gentleman understanding the resolution of the Mistress was as I told you married to the Maid by which action he thought to vex the Lady which slighted him and marry her who loved him and that he might make the Lady and all the World believe they were mistaken in him and that his Estate was as good as ever he lanched out all that he could to make a sumptuous wedding so that by such time as hâ—s and his Brides cloathes were paid for and the other expences defrayed not only his own Estate was consumed but all his new wives ready money which she had pickt up in her service was spent and besides one Citty house and some moveables all else was sold and the
an untruth and for that of which he was guilty he might justly expect to â—ail and be vanquished this they both beleived would happen and therefore consulted what to do and thus it was that they wanted the presence of their dear friend Entichus This consideration brought it into the minde of the Princess how that they should accomplish their business and therefore she having thus advised her Lover to take his opportunity very suddenly to speak with the Emperor and tell him that he had received Letters from the King his Father that he must needs go home suddainly because he was sick and therefore to desire his leave to dpart and to give longer time for the Combat which having obtained to go then immediately to King Entichus and desire his advice and assistance Prince Arthur followed the directions of the Princess in all these particulars and obtaining leave of the Emperor he travelled so long that he arrived at the Court of King Entichus and there privately be acquainted him with his affairs and the occasion of his journey King Entichus was very glad to see him and desirous to all things to advise and assist him but knew not how there is no way but this replyed Arthur that you return in my behalf and not being known to be other than my self on my befalf to perform the Battel and return King Entichus approved of what his friend Arthur had propounded but they were very much straitned for time in regard it was but eight dayes time to the day prefixed for the combate and if it were delayed for one day he could not possibly arrive there time enough and he had invited all his Nobility on the next day to come to his Weddâ—ng This was such an obâ—tacle as could not be removed or remedyed and put them to their wits ends but King Entichus being resolved to give an absolute proof of his friendship and hazard Kingdome Wife and Life and all rather than his friends should suffer in their honor he therefore thus contrived the business that Prince Arthur in all things resembling King Entichus should stay there and as if it were he be married to his Queen and hold all the solemnity of the Nuptials only when he was in bed with her to forbear proceeding with her and that he would immediately return to the Emperors Court and undertake the Combate and if he obtained the Victory suddainly return and so might he do so too to his best beloved this being concluded upon they seperated accordingly This was the sad condition of the poor unfortunate Entichus but on the other side Prince Arthur was as highly advanced for his father the King of England dying he became King and the Emperour of Germany dying and he marrying with the Princess Angelica he was crowned Emp. King Entichus understanding the fortune of his friend to be thus prosperous was joyful and resolved to go to him for releif in time of adversity and therefore putting on Hermits apparrel he travelled to the E. court where when he was arrived and would have entred he was turned out by the courtiers who could not indure the sight of so deform'd a monster wherefore he spak with one of the Emperor servants desiring him for the love of God to do a message for him The servant being a sober person bid him speak on on and say what he would have I desire said the Leaper that you go to the Emperour and tell him that here is a Leaper that desires for the love of God and King Entichus his sake that he may be admited to eat in some place this day in the Emperours presence The Servant told the Leaper that certainly his request would be refused but however he would perform his desire and thereupon went and told the Emperour who hearing the name of his dear friend King Entichus was so charmed therewith that he presently consented to the Leapers request commanding that he should eat in the Hall at a Table by himself and be respected as a person of honour Dinner time being come and the Emperour and his Courtiers being sat at Table the Leaper was also placed and served and when he had eaten he desired one of the Servitors to go to the Emperour and desire him for King Entichus his sake to send him his best Bowl ful of Wine This is an unreasonable request said the Servitor for my Lord the Emperour will never drink in it again if you should once touch it but however he went and delivered his Message to the Emperour who wondred at the request but performed what was desired and the Leaper receiving the Bowl drank off the Wine and taking the Ring which formerly the Emperour had given him put it into the Bowl and desir'd the Servitor to carry it to the Emperor who seeing the Ring and knowing it was amazed believing he should hear something of his dear friend Entichus wherefore he commanded that the Leaper should be look'd after conducted to his private Chamber that he might speak with him this his commands was obey'd and he arising from Dinner went to the Leaper and being alone with him he asked how he came by that ring very honestly replyed the Leaper I had it of the right owner who said the Emperor King Entichus no said the Leaper of Arthur Prince of England that cannot be replyed the Emperor for I am that Arthur and I gave it to none but my dear friend King Entichus that is confessed said the Leaper and since you still call Entichus your dear friend know that I am that unfortunate King Oh what impossibilities do you tell me said the Emperor nothing but what is too true replyed the King with tears in his eyes which by this time flowed too from the Emperors eyes down his cheeks in great abundance but his greif and passion having had this vent for a time he then ran to the Leapâ—rous King and kissed and embraced him crying out on my dear friend how is this great miâ—fâ—rtune befallen you you replyed the King are the occasion of it though I must confess you to be innocent how said the Emperor could I your friend be the cause of this misfortune and yet be innocent it is most certain replyed the King for your friendship to me in lyiâ—g with my wife and being innocent in not knowing her she supposeing you to be me hath so enragâ—d her that she revenged herâ—elf on me by poyson which hath wrought this dismal effect upon me so that your innocence occasioned my ruine and thereupon the King related the whole manner how it had befallen him and how he was turned out of his Kingdome Oh me unfortunate said the Emperor that I should occasion so much evil that my dear friend who hath so often hazarded his life for me should be thus evilly recompenced through my occasion I cannot said the King complain of you but of fortune to whom we must all submit well said the Emperor since you are still Master