Princess Magdalena and thereupon he gave her a King before the Damsel as a pledge of his faith and as a token of the promise he made her and then sending out the Damsel to sée if any body were in the Garden he took a solemn farewel of her and the Damsel returning and telling him that the coast was clear he lest his Lady and departed to his Lodging And now our Lovers had procéded thus far they were more inamored of each other then they had béen and during the time of his stay he spent all the nights with her and the fatal day being come of their separation they both séemed to be very much disturbed but she being resolved to put a project she had in her head into exâ—cution was the better satisfied and made provision accordingly He again promised to obey her in all things and not to fail in any thing he had promised her and now the very hour of his departure being come and that he had taken his leave of the King and Quéen and also of her telling her that he should within one hour set sail and so he left her She in prosecution of her intention having put all things into readiness before discoloured her Face and made that somewhat brown that was before very fair and clear and putting her self into a Suit and Coat habited like a Page and turning up her own Hair which was as yellow as the Gold or rather as radiant as the Sun-beams she put on a Periwig of another colour and so disguised her self that she was hardly knowable to her self and putting a parcel of rich Iewels and some Coin into her pocket and a Letter which she had written into her hands she went to the Sea-side where she had not waited long before he came She had so perfect a confidence that he did not at all distrust her but she coming up to him delivered a Letter to him which he opening read these words The Letter of the Princess Florida to the Prince Clarineo Sir AS a trial of your Love and an effect of your Promise to obey me in all things I make bold to request this of you to entertain this Donzel into your Service I dare warrant his Fidelity And although you are supplied with a faithful Servant already yet I pray accept of this from me who hath commission from me only sometimes to put you in mind of Your faithful and constant Friend FLORIDA Don Clarineo having read the Letter looked stedfastly on the Messenger and she as firmly upon him but he made no discovery but thus he said Most amiable Youth how welcome you are to me my usage of you shall testifie and you shall always find that in me as if my beloved Princess were presenâ— Good Sir replied the disguised Lady your only acceptance of me into your Service is all I desire and if I can serve you in any thing assure your self of my Fidelity to my utmost ability This discourse being ended he presently went aboard and carried his Page Florello with him for so had she named her self and the wind serving they hoysed up sails and departed When night came the Prince not only caused his Page to lie in the Caâ—in but also in the same bed with him he was very unwilling at the first but it being the Princes absolute command he obeyed But although they lay together all the term of the voyage yet did not the Prince suspect his sex and quality but he passed with him and all others in the Ship for a Boy And thus did they travel up and down all those Seas and searched several Islands but to no purpose till at length to Ireland they came as shall be declared in the next Chapter CHAP. VI. How the Knight of Cupid travelled into England went to the famous City of London and from thence to Windsor where a Combat was to be fought for that a Countess was accused of Adultery by one of her Damsels who was hired thereunto by the Countesses Brother in Law The King ordering that the Damsel should provide a Champion to fight on her behalf she had a fierce Giant and the Countess being unprovided of a Champion the Knight of Cupid undertook the Combat on her behalf he fights with and kills the Giant and thereupon the Damsel confessing the accusation to be false is burnt and the Countesses Brother in Law is banished How the Knight of Cupid had in vain sought for the Princess Magdalena in England and taking shipping at Westchester travelled into Ireland THus did the Prince Clarineo travel from one Country to another in searchâ—ng for the Princess Magdalena wishing by all means to find her that he might return to his beloved Princess Florida who although she was very near him yet he was ignorant thereof but it was great joy and comfort for them Loâ—h in regard she did always sée him and converse with him and their discourse being for the most part about her And now our Prince having sailed to the western parts of the World he arrived at England and there he landed resolving to visit most of the considerable parts of that Kingdom and therefore he caused thrée Horses to be disimbarqued for himself his Squire Florello and his Dwarf and ordering his Vessel to sail about most part of the Island and méet him at Westchester which is the nearest Sea-port Town in England to Ireland whither he also intended to travel and sée if in the Country of his Friend Peter of Ireland he might hear any news of the Princess Magdalena He and his Attendants being thus mounted on horse-back they rode on towards the great and famous City of London where the King of that Country kept his Court being come thither the King and all the Court were just then removing to the antient Castle of Windsor for the trial of a Cause that was there within few days to be ended by Combat the occasion of which Combat was this A Countess of that Kingdom having thrée Children by her Husband he died leaving her a Widow and she seized upon the Estate for the use of her Children they being as yet but young The Earl her Husband had a Brother who was very desirous of having the Children in his kéeping because he might under that pretence receive the Rent of his Brother's Lands but to this the Countess would in no wise agrée Wherefore her Brother in Law was so angry and being of a wicked and perverse nature being ambitious of Honour and covetous of the Estate of his Brother he had contrived a way how to gain all the Estate to himself wherefore he by great presents in hand and many fair promises of greater matters drew into confederacy with him a Damsel who had lived many years with his Sister in Law and her he caused to give out that the thrée Children of her Lady were not begotten by the Earl her Husband but by another who kept her company by this means proving her Lady to
that day that they exceeded behalf and then the two Damsels who came with him upon sight of the Princess Aurora knew her and that Evening they having the conveniency of being private together discovered themselves to her and the cause of their journey and how they fortunately met with Don Bellianis and the Princess also acquainted them with the good success of her affairs by his means and how that she was in part revenged for the Death of King Pompejano her Father by the Death of Don Gallaneo who had usurped her Kingdom CHAP. VII How the Shophy was grieved after the battel and how Don Bellianis Armor was brought to the City How the Kings of Armania and Tessifanty conferred with the Sophy and how the Duke presented himself to the Sophy and what hapned to him there and how the Knight of the Golden Image and Persiana were challenged by the fearful Fellistone and his brethren for the dâ—â—â—h of Don Gallaneo and Don Galfeo and how the challenge was acceepted THe grief of the Souldan was very great for the loss of his Son and very desirâ—ous he was to know who that Knight was that had performed such marvails in the Battle somewhat suspecting it to be the Knight of the Golden Image but that he supposed he kept his Bed by reason of his Wounds and withall he understood that the Knight went not home with the Duke but left the City wherefore he sent several Knights to séek him who coming to the place where the monstrous Dragon was slain they were more fearful of his dead Carkass then our Knight had béen to encounter and kill him there they found the Knights Armor by which they understood that it was he that had performed that marvellous Combate also at a little distance they found the Gyants slain Knights where séeing one of them so cloven in twain they admired at the prodigeous strength of the Knight who had done those marvails and thus being laden with his Armor they returned to the Souldan acquainting him with all they knew who marvelled thereat and was joyful for the Death of that mighty Dragon of the Ryphean Woods whom none durst encounter but all fled from as from their Deaths and now the Souldan being resolved to be revenged on the Duke Alfiron he provided to assault him and the Duke also provided for his own defence The Sophy continuing his resolution of being revenged on Duke Alfiron caused a Proclamation to be issued â—uâ— that none should aid or assist him but to procéed against him as against a Traytor But by the Mediation of the two Kings of Armenia and Tessifanty the indignation of the Sophy was appeased on condition the Duke would submit himself to Iustice to which they on his behalf engaged And thereupon the two Kings going to the Dukes Pallacee spake with him in the presence of Don Bellianis to whom thâ— Duke referred them for answer wherefore Don Bellianâ—â— acknowledging that he had slain Don Galfeo and Don Gallaneo told the Kings how that they had determined in baâ—e manner to murther him in his bed and Traiterouslyrs kill his this friends in the Tournament and therefore he had done what he ought in causing them to fall by his hand but he concluded that in his opinion it would not be amiss for the Duke to present himself to the Souldan and abide by his Iustice to which he consented the two Kings engaging on the Sophys behalf and they being now determined to go to the Souldans Pallace Don Bellianis desired his two friends Don Brianel and Don Arsileo to accompany them thither and if occasion were to undertake the Combate against any Challengers on behalf of him and the Princess 〈◊〉 which they promising to do departed leading him in Company of the Princess Aâ—rorâ— and the Princess Florisbella's Damsels who being very skilful in Surgery very much assisted him in the healing of his Wounds which as you have heard were many and great The Duke accompanied by the two Kings and Knights was hardly arrived at the Souldans Pallace when also there entred thrée great ugly and furious Gyants attended on by thirty Knights He who appeared to be the cheif being named Pallistone the Fierce King of Cyprus advanced to the Souldan and told him that he came to demand Iustice against Duke Alfiron the Knight of the Golden Image and his Daughter Persiana for contriving and acting the Death of his Kinsman Don Gallaneo and Don Galfeo his Cousin and he said he had reason to demand it being next of Kin to him and hoped to have Iustice against them because he understood the Sophy had already imprisoned his Daughter as guilty of the fact and therefore he termed the Duke and his Partakers Traytorâ— and to be such he would prove against them all himself in person although there were a hundred of them at once The Duke hearing these haughty and presumptious spéeches and viewing the Gyant made as resolute a reply telling him that he was the Duke and that what he had said was false and that he lyed most falsly as he would prove against him and Don Arâ—â—lâ—o hearing his Cousin Don Bellianis defyed and abused told the Gyant that what he had spoken of the Knight of the Golden Image was false and that he lyed in his Thrâ—â—t as he was ready to prove and justifie Don Brianel said as much in the behalf of the Princess Persiana and that in her behalf he would enteâ—â—he Couâ—â—â—â— either against the Gyant himself or against any of the other two Gyants who were his Brothers and came thither for that purpose The fieres Gyant hearing himself so flighted 〈◊〉 these thrée â—nights could hardly contain his anger flying into outragious expressions offered to fight with them all himself but the Sophy would not consent to that unequality in the Combate but consulting with his Câ—â—â—â— what was fittest to be done it was at length agréed on that Arfilâ—o â—â—ould fight on the behalf of Don Bellianis Don Brianel on behalf of the Princess Persiana and that Duke Alfiron should prâ—â—â—â—e him a Champion in the space of twelve days when the Combate was to be fought with them thrée and the King of Cyprus and his two Brothers to this the Princess Persiana was called who did at length consent that Don Brianel should be her Champion and thereupon Gages were delivered on both sides The Princess was again committed to Prison and so was Duke Alfiron The King of Cyprus being invited to remain in the Souldans Pallace consented determining after the Combate to demand the Princess for his Wife and being of Kin next to Don Gallaneo to have the Kingdom of Antioch with her The Princes Don Arsileo and Don Brianel with the Kings and others returned to the Dukes Pallace where they acquainted Don Bellianis with what had passed at the Souldans Pallace and he thereby understanding that the Combate was concluded on without his being a party therein he believed himself to be
very much wronged and resolving to have it otherwise if possible he arose left his Bed and the Dukes Pallace and being only led by the Princess Aurors who supported him and attended by Florisbella's Damsels in this manner he went to the Pallace being gaped at by all as he passed with the Eyes of Wonder And being arrived at the Sophyes presence he being accompanied by the King of Cyprus and his Brothers the Sophy shewed him to the King telling him of his great strength and Valor but the King made so slight of the Souldans Words that be again offered to fight with him and all the other Combatants at once and could hardly be disswaded there from by the Souldans perswasions CHAP. VIII How Don Bellianis coming to demand Justice of the Souldan was imprisoned till the end of the Combate how he being disguised went out of Prison and met with Don Contumeliano of Phaenicia and then returned to the City and being armed with his Armour he was admitted to fight his Discourse with the Princess Persiana before the Battle and what happened therein DOn Bellianis all this while looked as earnestly on the King of Cyprus and séeing the Discourse betwéen him and the Sophy to be ended he thus began Most Mighty Lord I understand that I have been accused of Treason against Don Galfeo and Don Gallaneo if it be a Treason for a Man to defend his Life against those that come traiterously to assail him then I must confess my self guilty for I do not deny but Don Galfeo fell by my Sword but it was when he like a Traytor as he was came to murther me in my bed and I do not deny but that that Don Gallaneo fell also by my Sword but it was in rescuing my friends from him whom he had also determined to slay If to do these just actions for defence of my self and friends be treasonable then I must confess my self to be guilty but I hardly think that any person who loves Justice will now believe me guilty However I understand that I am accused of Treason and so accused that I am not permitted in my own person to defend my self I understanding hereof am come hither to demand Justice at your hands and that I wounded as I am may be permitted to fight my own battell which I promise to do ten days hence and I question not the Justice of my cause assisting me to prove upon any Knight or Gyant that I am no Traitor nor guilty of any Treason whereof I am accused He having thus finished the Souldan replyed that he was accused of Treason and according to custome no Man that was so accused was to defend his own cause for if so it would be unequal especially with him whom he thought did not fight like other Knights but that he was assisted by enchantment Much other Language passed between them wherein Don-Bellianis endeavououred to anger and provoke he King of Cyprus to Challenge him the Combat but although many hot word pâ—ssed between them yet the Souldan still so took up the maâ—ter thâ—t Don Bellianis was frustrate in his design being forced to yeild to what the Souldan had already determined and withall he was by the Souldans command carryed to a strong Tower there to be strictly guarded until the day of Combat came wherefore he was forced to stay only accompanied by the two Damsels of the Princess Florisbella who were left to cure his wounds Arfiâ—eo and Brianell were both present at this Communication with the Souldan but said little wishing for the day of Combat that they might justifie their friends that were thus wrongfully accused Ten days of the twelve whereon the Combat was intended to be fought were already passed to the great grief of Duke Alfiron because he could not find any that would undertake the Combat in his behalf so dreadful was these three Gyants unto all that beheld them The Princess Persiana was also very sorrowful on the same account But when Don Bellianis understood so much he was marvelously afflicted and could not receive any comfort although both the Damsels that attended him did all they could to please him till at length one of the two Damsels whose name was Floriana bethought of a remedy for all their sorrow which was thus it was agreed to give out that he was very ill of his wounds so that he continually kept his bed and that she lying in the bed in his stead he being disguised in her Apparrel might pass the Guards and so getting Armor might make one of the Combatants this advice he very well approved of and the next night put in execution but when he was Apparrelled in Womans habit he appeared marvelously beautiful so that the two Damsels said they had never seen any so beautiful except it were their Lady the Princess Florisbella who they told him was exceeding fair and to confirm their words they shewed him the Picture of their Lady which they still carried with them he receiving the Picture and earnestly considering it found that is was the very same he had pictured on his Shield which being so fair as it was he supposed it to be a piece made by fancy and not truth but now viewing of this other and they assuring him that it was the true and lively Picture of their Lady he was so surprised therewith that he became instantly in Love with a very violent passion which had like to have brought him into a Trance but he being again recovered and desiring to have the keeping of the Picture departed leaving the Damsel Floriana in bed in his stead and just as he went out the Kings of Armenia and Tesifanty were entring to see him but he telling them that the Knight of the Golden Image was in bed and weak with his wounds desiring to take rest they returned commanding that the Guards should let none to enter there to disturb him and he pretending to go to the Tower where the Duke was imprisoned went another way and leaving all company went out of the City into the adjoyning fâ—ields where he laid himself under a fair spreading Beech Tree the Moon shining he drew out the beloved Picture viewing it with very great affection and falling into as great a passion considering the great difficulties that he must overcome in his love to the Princess Florisbella whose Father being a Pagan would never admit of him who was a Christian to be his Son in Law and many other difficulties he considered of yet however he was resolved so soon as this adventure was ended to leave all other concerns and go visit her and this passion held him so long and became so violent that viewing of the Picture he fell into a Trance in which he continued until a Knight who travelled that way by the light of the Moon saw him in that condition and supposing him to be a Lady in a Trance he discounted and used such remedies as again restored his sences and he
being come to himself finding that he was in the arms of a Knight he wondred But considering what had lately hapned he rested content but so did not the Knight who beholding his beautiful face was as much surprized and taken in love therewith as he had bin with the Picture of the Princess Florisbella and to that purpose he used many amorous expressions offering his service in all obsequious manner Don Billianis smiled at the Knights mistake but however was resolved to continue him therein thereby make some use of it wherefore he presently desired him to pull of his Helmet and to declare his name and quallity To this the Knight agréeed and unarming his head discovered a very lovely face and that young not being above twenty five years of age and in order to the Ladies request he told her that his name was Don Contumeliano of Phaenicia being Son and Heir to the King of that Country Don Billianis who now further desired a boone of him the Knight granted it and then Don Billianis told him that he lately left a Knight a friend of his in great distress for want of a Horse and Armes being the next day to use them upon an urgent occasion therefore the request he made was that he would so far pleasure him as to furniâ—â— him with his Don Contumeliano readily consented and having delivered the Armes helped the supposed Lady to mount and would have kissed her hand but Don Billianis would not permit it but embracing him very lovingly told him that if he would the next day come into the City he might sée his Arms used and that she would not fail to come again in the Evening to the place and restore them and thereupon he departed leaving the Prince of Phaenicia who not knowing what to do lay down there to sléep till it should be time to enter the City In the mean time Don Billianis traveling through the Wood and coming to a Cave entered there into and putting off his womans Aparrel armed himself as well as he could and hid his Clothes by cutting down some boughs and spread them thereon And the day-light approaching he mounted his Horse and entered the City where he had not ridden long before he saw the Prince of Phenicia who awaiting his comming and knowing him by the Armour soon mounting on his Squirs Horse rode along with him till they arived at the Pallace where when they came and Don Billianis was dismounted he knew not to whom to deliver his Horse which the Prince of Phenicia séeing told him that his Squire should doe him that service as being bound to do him any though unknown Don Billianis well enough understanding what he meant kindly thanked him and taking him by the hand they passed on towards the Souldan whom was accompanied by the King of Cyprus and his two Brothers who were then arming themselves for the intended Combat After the usual reverence made to the Souldan Don Billianis told him that he had some busines to impart to him but could not do it untill Duke Alfrion were present Wherefore he was presently sent for and brought thither by the Guards He being come Don Billianis acquainted the Souldan that he was to be his Champion The Duke hearing this did in all obleigeing manner render him many thanks and fréely put his Cause and Life into his hands The Knight having procéeded thus far in his designe desired to sée who was the Dukes Enemy and accuser That am I said the King of Cyprus fiercely thinking to affright him and now you have séen me do you still continue your resolution of fighting Yes replyed Don Billianis I shall now do it to chuse for by your outward appearance I cannot imagine one so monstrous as you are can be Master of no vertues and therefore I beleive your accusation false You may judge if this spéech of Don Billianis did not inrage the furious Gyant who now called out that they might presantly begin the Combat whereupon the Prisoners were sent for into the Field the Duke was there already the Princess was soon after brought But Don Billianis being sent for and the Gaurds séeing him as they supposed lye sick in his Bed they at the request of the Damosel that attended went to the Souldan and acquainted him with the low condition of the Knight he was contented that he might be excused from comming into the Field And all things being in readiness for the Combat and the Princes Don Brianel and Arselio understanding that the Duke was provided of a Champion they were glad thereof and entered the Field their Sheilds were borne by the two Kings of Armenia and Tâ—ssifanta and their Helmets by Duke Gerirano the Prince of Brandalia Don Contumeliano carried both Launce and Sheild of the Golden Image these Knights méeting saluted one another courteously and Don Billianis caused his Armour to be closer buckled on and now did Don Billianis mount his Horse with his usual dexterity but he strained himself so much that his wounds bled afresh through his Armour The two Princess Aurora and Persiana who sat on a Scaffold together seeing that and beleiving it was Don Billianis called to him and so perswaded him that he discovered himself to them The Cerimonies of the Field being performed they all six ran one aginst another Don Billianis undertooke the Gyant and two Princes the two Brothers the last four were by the fury of their Encounter forced to leave their Saddles all were wounded but Don Brianel was in the worst condition having one foot so intangled in his Stirop that he could not rise Most furious was the Encounter of Don Billianis and the Gyant for Don Billianis his arme was run through and fastned to his body with a péece of the Gyants lance that stuck in it and the Gyant was thrown to the ground with great fury Don Billianis was forced to dismount to encounter the Gyant who made up to him but before he dismounted séeing Don Brianel's foot ingaged in his Stirrop and the Gyant his adversary ready to mischief him he threw down the King of Cyprus while he was on Horse-back and then leaping off he went to asist Don Brianel but was hindred by the Gyant his adversary and in short time the King of Cypius being agen on his féet being as much inraged as any Tyger came also and assaulted him so that he was forced to defend himself against two who both gave him many weighty straokes which did so inrage him that he gave the Kings brother who had anoyed him so puissant a stroak on the Helmet that it was cut in two and wounded him on the head so that he was astonished but withall his Sword flew in péeces and he thereby left without a weapon Great was the fear and sorrow of the two Princesse of Duke Alfrian and of the Damsels of the Tower who looked from thence to behold the Combat and of the Prince of Poenicia by the badness of
which were accustomed at the Coronation with free liberty for all Knights as well Christians as Pagans to go and come at the same time and during their stay to shew their Valor and Manhood in Tilting Iousting and all other Knightly Exercises This proclamation being sent abroad occasioned many Knights to resort to the Court so that by the time prefixed for the Triumph as well the fields adjoyning to the City as the City it self was silled with Knights so that it was a most delectable sight to behold and most delicious to hear the sound of so many Warlike Instruments as was at that time heard And the King caused certain Rayls to be made on the out-side of the City within which the Knights were to Tilt and perform their Deeds of Knighthood and causes a Throne to be placed there for himself and his Queen and Seats for the rest of the Nobility where they might sit and see the Tournaments and he further ordained twenty Knights of his own who were commanded by one Don Lorino Son to his Brother Don Gorino a young and hardy Knight to resist all strange Knights These things being thus ordained all people with a great deal of impatience till the appointed day for the Solemnity of the coronation was come which day being now come there happened that which shall be declared in the chapter following CHAP. XV. How the Day of the Coronation being come there entred into the Court a Knight who termed himself to be The Knight of the Island of Pearls and demanded the Kingdom of Shyraz as his right and offered to defend his Title in single Combate against any one Knight which Combate Don Bellianis undertook and vanquished him and of his departure for Babylon THe Kingdom of Shyraz whereof the Duke Alfiron and the Princess Persiana were now in possession had for many years belonged to the Souldan of Persia Father to the Princess who had given the same to his Daughter as hath already been declared but wee have not yet told you how the Souldan of Persia came by the same So it was that the Father of this Souldan onely had tribute for the same of one Gozmin a valiant Knight but the said Gozmin for some trayterous enterprize was dispossessed of the same He being executed and his sons for ever disenabled to possess the same for a just reward of their fathers treason and then the Souldan took the same into his own possession and ever after that took the immediate Profits thereof to his own use onely appointing a Governor there whom he placed and displaced as often as he thought fit and in this condition he left it to his Son when he died who as I told you gave it fréely to his Son in Law Duke Alfiron as a Portion with his Daughter Now this Gozmin left two Sons behind him both valiant and stout Knights the eldest whereof lived in an Island in the Persian Gulph called The Island of Pearls The day being come wherein this great Ceremony of Crowning the King and Queen was to be performed every one arose early either to assist at or behold the Ceremony The King and Quéen being ready mounted in a Triumphant Chariot and by four Vnicorns were drawn to the great Temple where they being arrived mounted on a Scaffold prepared to that purpose and then the Chief Flamin of the City after the ordinary Ceremonies placed two Crowns of Gold enriched with many pretious Stones of inestimable value on their heads praying to the Gods to bless them with perpetual blessings and blessing all their friends and true and loyal Subjects and cursing all such as were or should be their enemies This Ceremony being performed they both descended from their Thrones and walking through the Temple remounted their Chariot riding therein through the City with their Crowns on to the Court where they were no sooner arrived but the Tables were spread with all manner of delicious Viands that the Country could afford many Healths going round the Table for the prosperity of the King and Queen After Dinner was ended before any person did arise from Table the Herald at Arms according to custome did after the sound of an innumerable company of Trumpets again proclaim the said Duke and Princess to be King and Queen of Shyraz Larr and Jaarown Lord and Lady of Ormus Maqueroon Kermoen Chusestan Sigestan and Farsestan Prince and Princess of the Culph of Persia and of the Isles there These words he pronounced twice and at the end of every such Proclamation he said if any one had any right to the same or any part thereof he bid them come forth and declare the same This had been done twice and the Herald was about to begin the third time when a Knight armed in an azure Armor commanded him to hold his peace which he obeyed and then the Knight going up to the place where the King and Queen sat spake as followeth Duke Alfiron for by no other name shall I own you It is not unknown to most of the people here present that my Title to this Crown of Shyraz and all the Territories thereto belonging is just and good when they shall know that I am Son to the famous Gozmin sometimes King of this place I had long since expected that the Souldan would have restored me to my undoubted right but since I see that he hath been so unjust as to give it away I am to tell thee that if thou wilt enjoy it I must first be dead and therefore I will thee presently to appoint at thy Champion to defend thy Title and to enter into the Lists with me immediately not questioning but the Gods will so far do me justice that I shall be enabled to destroy thy Champion Having thus said he held his peace This Spéech gave a wonderful astonishment to all the persons there present and gave the King and Queen a sensible trouble to be thus interrupted in the midst of their Solemnity The King answered That he was so well satisfied in the Iustice of the Quarrel that he was ready himself to enter the Field to vindicate his Right but the Queen diswaded him therefrom not questioning but that they should find some other Champion Many Knights presently arose and desired the King and Queen that they might have the Honor of the Combate but the King was resolved not to venture his Title in the hands of any but such a one as he should be very confident of his worth Don Bellianis thinking himself obliged to do somewhat was resolved to undertake the Combate and therefore arising from his seat desired the King and Queen to admit him to be their Champion and to put the tryal of their Cause into his hands The King would willingly have excused it by reason of the many Obligations which he had already received from him but Don Bellianis who vvas resolved not to be denyed pressed them so hard that at length they condescended Whereupon he desired that the
at the next encounter the Knight of the Wolf had so good fortune as to overthrow the other Knight out of the Saddle and passed on being unshaken and expected another Assaylant when presently another Knight armed in Azure Armor entred the List and doing his obeysance to the King and Quéen expected the encounter which was so fierce that he lost both his stirrops and the horse of the Knight of the Wolf was on his buttocks but he soon made him rise and so went bravely on when taking another Lance and resolving to be revenged of his late disgrace he ran so fiercely against the Knight in the Azure Armor that he sent him from his horse to the ground with his Saddle betwéen his legs After this another Knight entred the List armed in a gréen Armor and dâ— his Shield was painted a Knight leaning on the ground under a tuft of Trées and he went by the name of The solitary Knight this Knight after his due reverence to the King and Quéen pranced about the field with great grates at last he arrived at the end of the Lists and taking a Lance from one of his Pages at the sound of the Trumpets began his Caress and peoform'd so wel that he made the Knight of the Wolf lost both his stirrops he being very little shaken with the encounter At the second course the Knight of the Wolf in revenge of the former blow ran so fiercely that he threw the Solitary Knight horse and man both to the earth at which there was a great shout And thus did the Knight of the Wolf throw many Knights from their horses so that he that day dismounted sixtéen and the night coming on they left off that sport and retiring into the Court they disarming themselves fell to dancing In which exercise they were as perfect as the other so that they are as fit for Venus as Mars Much of the evening they spent in these kind of exercises but at length they left off and conducted the King and Quéen to Bed where the fair Princess gave to Don Brianel as full and frée possession of her Body as he had formerly given her of her Kingdom and there he received a full satisfaction for all the travels he had sustained in her service Much was the content they both received and I suppose there was but few Knights in the Court but did envy their happiness and would have béen glad to have had the company of so swéet a Bed fellow as he enjoyed in which enjoyment we will leave him and the rest to their several thoughts till the morning which being come they all arose and the Quéen signified by her blushes that she had parted from that Iewel which till then she had preserved They being all drossed mon was come when they sate down to Dinner which being done they all went to the Tilt pard to prosecute that sport they had begun where every one being seated in the same order they were the day before the five Champions rid about the field expecting the arival of some adventurous Knight they had not stayed long ree they had their desire for there entred a Knight into the field armed in black Armor causing his Horse bravely to prance about the Field performed his Duty to the King and Quéen and then taking a Lance expected the sound of the Trumpet which being heard he put forwards but he was encountred with such force by the Knight of the Wolf that he was thrown from his horse and forced to measure his length on the earth which having done he retired and then there entred into the Lists a Knight armed with a white Armor as a new Knight and on his Shield he had two Keps of Gold painted very artificially this Knight gave all the Spectators cause of admiration for he demeaned himself very courteously not only in his saluting the King and Quéen but in his respects to all the Spectators and taking a Launce in his hand he ran against the Knight of the Wolf so furiously that at the first encounter he threw him to the earth to the great amazement of the Company who now took him for a very brave Knight Having performed so well with the Knight of the Wolf he faced about and expected to méet with some other Knight and he faâ—â—ed not long in his expectation for Elorispiano of Swevia taking a strong and knotty Lance at the sound of the Trumpets met him with so great fury thinking to revenge his Companions quarrel but he was deceived therein for he onely brake his Launce upon his Enemies Shield without doing him any other harm and the Knight of the Keys having likewise broke his Launce took another and so they began a new Carâ—éer but that sâ—â—ond was more to the disadvantage of Fliorispiano them the former for he lost both his Stirrops but before he came to the â—nd of the Liâ—ts he bravely recovered himself and so they did both and taking new Launces ran again but to the greater misfortune of Fliorispiano than before for he was now tumbled from his horse This gave much wonder to all present to think who the Knight of the Keys was for he was wholly unknown there and came then by chance as shall be told you hereafter The Knight of the Keys having performed so valiantly expected another Knight to encounter him when presently Contumeliano Prince of Phenicia prepared himself for the Encounter and taking a Launce in his hand went forwards to the Knight of the Keys and said to him Sir Knight I have one request to make to you before we try our fortunes with the Launce which is that you would tell me your Name and of what Countrey you are To which the Knight of the Keys courteously replied Sir Knight I am known by no other Name than the Knight of the Keys and to tell you any other Name would little satisfie you for I was born in a Countrey so far from hence that it hath seldom here béen heard of and I le assure you I came hither by accident and never was in your company nor in this place before till this day and therefore if you have nothing else to say to me let us procéed with our Lances To which the Prince of Phenicia replyed I to my experience know Sir Knight that you do perform very well with the Lance therefore I pray grant this Request that if we chance both to break one or two Lances without any effect and neither of us have any advantage that you will procéed to the Sword where we may have more oceasion to try our valors To this Request the Knight of the Keys consented and so they forthwith brake off their discourse and began their Caréer Great was che fury with which both these Champions met and they resolving to shew all their strength brake their Lances in pieces and so passed on at the next encounter they resolved to perform better and so they did for they not onely brake
not onely give my own consent to the Match but I would endeavor to perswade the Souldan my Husband thereto and I question not but the many Services which that good Prince hath done him will engage him to give him that satisfaction if he desires it As for that Madam said Mattarosa I am sure that the valiant Prince Don Bellianis is extreamly amorous of my Cousin Florisbella and that it hath béen the sole cause of his coming hither which hath béen so much for the advantage of us all he himself told me this and I think my self not onely obliged to tell you but to do what else for him I can The Princess Florisbella séeing things brought to this pass thus answered them Dear Mother since it is your pleasure for me to speak in this occasion I shall do it with all fréedom and therefore assure your self that ever since I first saw the Prince Don Bellianis I have had a very great inclination for him but I have smothered it till now I hear he is a Person not only fit by his worth and desert but your estéem of him to be so and therefore if you and my Father should be so contented I shall think my self happy in having a person so every way accomplished for my Husband and I question not but his worth will sufficiently plead for him to my Father The Emperess being highly satisfied in the Answer of her Daughter said that she would immediately take such Orders with the Souldan as she would not onely know his mind herein but also if occasion be perswade him thereto to the satisfaction of all and so she departed from her Cousin and Daughter leaving them in the greatest satisfaction in the world The Emperess went to the Souldan her Husband and discoursed of this matter to him who was so pleased therewith that there was nothing wanting but the presence of Don Bellianis to put a conclusion to the matter and therefore they all wished for an end of the war In these tâ—arms they were when a Knight armed at all poines came into the presence of the Souldan and doing his ordinary Reverence told him that he came from the valiant Prince Don Bellianis and his Companions and had brought a Letter to him and thereupon the Souldan caused it to be opened wherein he found these words written The LETTER of Don Bellianis to the Souldan of Babylon Dread Lord Since my last to you our Success in your Wars hath been very various for the Emperor of Trebizond continuing in his wilfulness endeavored all he could to lengthen the War which he effected by the continual arrival of fresh Forces but however the Justice of your Cause gave us sufficient Success for alrhough your Forces did rather diminish than encrease yet we still joyned the better At length we being wearied with the tediousness of the War resolved though to our disadvantage to hazard all in one Battel which we both began and continued with equal success till new Forces arriving at his Army somewhat discouraged your Soldiers but however I resolved to put an end to the War with that one days Battel if possible and therefore giving your Forces fresh encouragement by my endeavours we continued the Fight but most fortunate was it for us that those Forces you sent under the Conduct of my Brothers and Friends came at that time so opportunely for it so discouraged our Enemies and gave so much encouragement to your Soldiers that all resolved to make this use thereof either to conquer or die This their Resolution they well enough performed for after a long and bloody Battel our Enemies were forced out of the Field which they had before kept into the City to their great loss not onely the Common Soldiers and many brave Knights suffered and lost their lives but the Chief Commanders also The Emperor it was my fortune to take Prisoner and the King of Georgia who had assisted him with fifty thousand men was taken by my two Brethren and the rest put to flight so that we may conclude the War to be at an end I have left the City with a hundred thousand men besieged by Don Baltasano and with the rest am coming towards Babylon to know your further Commands which what ever they be shall be surely executed for since your incomparable Daughter hath had so much goodness as to admit me to the honor of being her Servant I sind my self capable for any attempt I shall bring with me the Emperor whose presumption gave her a discontent who shall either ask her pardon for his so bold attempt or be otherwise disposed of as you shall think fit I thought good to send you this Messenger that you might participate in the Contentment we all receive by this Victory which you may account absolute or else if you please to command it shall be quickly perfected either to the gaining of the Empire of Trebizond or what other Kingdoms you shall please or else to the loss of the life of Your humblest Servant Don Bellianis If this News was pleasing to the Souldan you may easily judge and he soon expressed it by his Commands that a general Ringing should be made throughout his whole Empire And he then immediately assembled his Council together to advise what was necessary to be done wherein it was concluded that he himself and all the Grandées of his Court and all the Forces that were then in the City prepared for the War should the next day march in triumph to méet the valiant Don Bellianis and his worthy Companions The Princess Florisbella was soon informed of this Victory not onely by that Letter of her Fathers but by one of her own sent by Don Bellianis to her which when she had received it she opened and read as followeth The LETTER of Don Bellianis to the Princess Florisbella Dear Princess THe tediousness of the War hath given me a very sensible trouble not for any thing of difficulty I found therein but for my absence from your Divine Presence but now thanks to the Gods we have put a Period thereto the Justice of your Cause commanding no less for we have not onely sacrificed the lives of many of of your Enemies to your just Anger but I have in my custody the persons of two of the most considerable the Emperor your Grand Enemy and the King of Georgia one of his Alliance I beg an Excuse for my not giving you a particular account of our Battel and Victory doubting the tediousness thereof would displease you I shall bring the Emperor my Rival into your presence but I suppose he will not be so impudent as to persevere in his wilfulness of having your Divine Person at his dispose nor at the least discontent you if I thought he would I should hinder him there from by bereaving him of his life It was my intention to have sacrificed his life long since to your just displeasure and thereby have rid my self of a Rival but
The Emperor of Trebizond not agreeing to several Propositions that were made him the War is resolved upon a Messenger being sent to Baltazano he brings an answer wherein he desires help for that Floreza Sister to the Emperor had relieved the City of Pharez whereupon 100000. men are sent away by the Souldan under the command of the Knight of Hope and his Companions IN the last Chapter of the second Part of this honourable History an Adventure happened that was a great trouble to the Solemnities and Triumphs intended to be continued at the magnificent Wedding of the thrice Renowned and Valiant Knight Don Bellianis of Greece and the Peerless Princess Florisbella Daughter to the Souldan of Babylon for as you may read in that place on the fourth day of the Tournament which was hold in honour of thut Wedding it being agreed that the valiant Prince Don Clarineo of Spain Brother to the Prince Don Bellianis of Greece should maintain the Field for that day he was encountred and assaulted by a Knight in black Armor having the figure of Envy painted on his Shield who with the assistance of some valiant Knights that accompanied him made great slaughter among the Knights that accompanied Don Clarineo and had not Don Bellianis himself and several of his Friends left the place of the Tournament and arming themselves returned and assisted in the fight much more mischief had been done by the Knight of Envy and his Companions but he and his Assistants being vanquished and Don Bellianis and his Friends relieved by the coming of the sage Bellaneo that hazardous Adventure was finished and at the conclusion of that Chapter it was promised that an account should be given you who this Knight of Envy was and the occasion of his coming thither at that time Now that you may be fully acquainted with the truth of this Adventure it is necessary that you look back to the fifteenth Chapter of the second Part of this History where you may find that on the day of the Coronation of Duke Alfiron and the Princess Persiana his Wife Daughter to the Souldan of Persiâ— now King and Queen of Shyraz that days Solemnities were obstructed at the present by the arrival of a Knight armed in azure Armor and afterwards known by the name of the Knight of the Island of Pearles who being one of the Sons of one Gozmin and formerly King of Shyraz under the Souldan of Persia but for some traiterous enterprize dispossessed of the same by the Souldan this Knight of the Island of Pearles coming at the day of the Coronation and attending until the Herald who proclaimed the said Duke Alfiron and his Wife Persiana King and Quéen of Shyraz Larr and Jarrowne and all the rest of the Territories and Dominions hereto belonging had proclaimed it twice according to custome and being about to do so the last time he then going to the place where the King and Quéen sate told them that he did come to contradict the Proclamation saying that so long as he was alive there coâ—ld not be any other lawful King for that he was the Son of the said Gozmin and that to justifie his Title he was ready to enter the Lists with any Champion that they should appoint This as you may remember was a sensible trouble to the King and Quéen for the present but Don Bellianis unâ—ertâ—king the combat on their behalf and vanquishing the said Knight of the Island of Pearles and because he would not acknowledge any other King but himself he therefore cut off his head and so finished the combat as you may read more at large in the said secoâ—d Part. Now you may also read that the said Knight of the Islaâ—d of Pearles had a Brother and he it was that under the name of the Knight of Envy came and disturbed the last days Triumphs at the Wedding of Don Bellianis and Florisbella We néed not acquaint you with the cause of his coming at this time to disturb this Royal Assembly for you may soon judge it was to be revenged on Don Bellianis for his Brothers death But withal he had a further design in it for he intended either to seize on or murther Alfiron and Persiana the King and Quéen of Shyraz who as he alledged had usurped upon his right to the Kingdom and that being done by the help of his Friends to have gotten possession of the Kingdom but he was prevented as you have already heard And now these Troubles being over nothing was thought of but Ioyes and Triumphs and to that end another Tournament was proclaimed to be kept for two days more and Don Clarineo of Spain who had béen obstructed and disappointed by the late Adventure was to kéep the Field for the first day and the Knight of Hope who was Servant to Matarozâ— Princess of Numidia was appointed to kéep the Field the second day wherefore according to this agréement Don Clarineo of Spain with fifty Knights in his company entred the Lists and gave the Ladies as much satisfaction by their valiant behavior on that day as they had received trouble on the laâ—â— And now the last day of the Tournament being come the Knight of Hope being arâ—â—ed in a white Armor inlaid with the figures of Anchors of blew and a picture of Hope on his shield entred the Field and his Lady the Princess the more to hoâ—our him had bestowed a rich Scarf of blew Silk embroidered with Stars of Cold which he wore about his arm and in this equipage accompanied with fifty Knights all in the same coloured Armor he entred the Lists and expected his Assaylants and now it being the last day intended for the Solemnity of the Wedding all the young Knights of the Court resolved to try their Fortunes intending to gain Honour but although several of them performed very well yet he kept the Field to the last and clearly bore away the Honour of that days Triumph to the great satisfaction of the whole Court but chiefly to the great pleasure of his Princess And now the Triumphs being ended and all the Court ready to rise and leave their seats a great voice of Trumpets was heard at which every one wondring looked towards the place from whence they supposed the noise came but behold there was nothing but a great cloud which being in some short time vanished they saw the Castle where the Knight of Envy was and at the four corners of this Castle were placed four Trumpeters who still continued sounding their Trumpets also at the entrance of the Castle there were two Giants armed at all points with Iron Maces in their hands and broad cutting Faulchions by their sides and six foot on this side the Giants there was a Pillar of Iasper and on it hung a Table whereon was written this Prophesie The Adventure of Redeeming and Releasing the Knight of Envy and his Companions from this Câ—stâ—e is reserved to be finished by the young Syconian Lion and the
irrecoverably and their second birth shall bring as much joy as their loss had brought grief to their Parents They are born to command as many Empires and Kingdoms as are represented on their bodies and by them shall peace be given to the greatest Empires in the Universe This Prophesie was brought to the Court and presented to the Souldan and Don Bellianis who séeing the contents of it would not be very pleasing they therefore resolved to conceal it from the knowledge of all trusting Fate to dispose of them and hoping for the best But withal they made the stricter provision for the nursing of the two young Princes who with their Purses were placed in a Castle adjoyning to the Court and a strict Guard set to watch it night and day By the consent of all the young Son was named Meridian after the name of the Souldan his Grand-father and the Princess was called Clarinds it being the name of her Grand-mother the Mother of Don Bellianis These two admirable Princes being thus named were delivered to certain Ladies to be nursed by them in a Castle and under a Guard as we have already told you and there they continued â—â—x moneths without being visited by any but the Father Mother Grand-father and Grand-mother and such of the Court as they permitted to go with them and in these six moneths they were grown so large that it was admirable to all that faw them The Father and Grand-father of these two Princes were very glad that six moneths were passed hoping that they by taking the same care of kéeping and guarding them might hinder the effects of the threatning Prophesie The Princess Florisbella was mightily well pleased with the thriving of her Children but was dissatisfied at their being so strictly guarded and had several times inquired of her Husband the cause why they could not be bred up in the Court with her Don Bellianis still concealed the true cause of their confinements and replied that it was out of state and that it would be better for the Children while they were so young to be bred privately then otherwise promising that so soon as one year was past by which time they would be capable of knowing them to permit them to be brought to and bred up in the Court and with this answer the Princess was forced to rest satisfied The news of the birth of these two heave Princes being spread abroad was soon carried not only to all parts of the Empire but it also came to the hearing of Don Brianel and Aurora King and Quéen of Antioch who believing they should oblige Don Bellianis and his Princess sent their Daughter Aurora to be been up with them in the Court of Babylon and by their example Alfiron and Persians King and Quéen of Shyraz also sent their Daughter Bellians for whose arrival at Court great joy was made And now the Princess Florisbella was again desirous that her two Children might he brought to Court to accompany these two Princesses Don Bellianis promised her that her desire should in short time be granted but that he must first have the consent of her Father the Souldan before it could be done The Princess hearing and understanding that if she could have her Fathers consent her Husbands would be had she therefore became a Suitor to her Father in that be half He answered her as her Husband had done that in short time she should have her desires fulfilled But she was so importunate with both her Husband and Father that she caused them to promise her that on a day prefixed which was to come within one moneth more the two Princes should he brought to Court She waited the coming of that day with some impatience and when it was come a great Feast was provided and Triumths were intended to be solemrazeâ— in honour of the two Princes and all the Court went in a kind of procession to the place where they were kept They were brought out of the Castle by their Nurses and placed in a Golden Chariot drawn by two milk-white Palsreys They were attended by several other Chariots wherein were the most eminent of the Court and guarded by those who had formerly béen the Guard of the Castle They being brought to Court and dinner ended they were in the same mamâ—er drawn in their Chariots to a place scaffolded and railed in where the Tournament was to be kept All Persons here took their places according to their degrées and abilities and the two young Princes were placed on a Scaffold where were none but themselves and their Nurses and the two young Princesses Aurora and Belliana and opposite to them was the Scaffold whereon sat the Souldan and his Wife and Don Bellianis and the Princess Florisbella who was very joyful at the sight of her two Children but her joy was converted into sadness within few hours after All People being placed on the Scaffolds and the Combatants who were to perforin this days Triumph being entred the Lists they rode about making their usual obeysances to these Princes and so passed on to their several stations where at the noise of forty Trumpets they began their carere which was performed with much gallantry and so indéed was all the action of the day to the great content of all the Spectators But a little before the approaching of the night when the Combatants were separated there were two Chariots séen in the Air drawn by six Griffons apiece they came from several ways for one came from the East and the other from the West and méeting in the Air they began a furious Combat with each other which continued for some time in the Air to the admiration of all the beholders but they in the end separated and both whéeling about alighted in the place where the Tilting had béen performed out of one of these Chariots issued a Giant and in his hand two Lions who went towards the Scaffold where the two young Princes Meridian and Clarinda were seated but before they could come thither they were met and opposed by another Giant and two fierce Lecpards who came out of the other Chariot betwéen these two Giants began a fierce and cruel Combat for they drawing their mighty broad Falchions soon drew blood from one another in the mean time the Beasts were not idle for they assaulted each other with great violence and in the end of a cruel Combat which was begun continued and ended by these Giants and Beasts to the admiration of all the beholders the Giant with the Lions was vanquished by the other and a great peal of Thunder and flash of Lightning happening the Chariof out of which the vanquished Giant and Lions came was vanished and so was the Giant and Lions and the other Giant séeing himself Conqueror taking his Leopards in his hand went up to the Scaffold where the two young Princes were and taking them into his arms bore them away and carrying them to the Chariot he entred with them
courtship from this fierce Lover but he living in a Castle near to that where she dwelt with her Father and sometimes riding abroad he would take some opportunities of séeing her and tendring his love to her She who was resolved to have none but the Prince Arsileo refused Fustagon and all others and notwithstanding his many Letters and Presents wholly refused him But he being very amorous of her was reâ—â—lved to have her either by fair means or compulsion and to that end he laid many plots how to surprize her but she being kept with her Father in his Castle which was defended with many Knights of his retinueÌ„ he had not the opportunity of surprizing her by force but at length he waiting all opportunities found one to execute his villanous design For news being brought that the Emperor Don Bellaneo and the Prince Arsileo with several others were returned to Constantinople from Persiâ— the Father of the Princess Leonarda out of dutiful respect to the Emperor thought it necessary for him to go to Constantinople and welcome him home accordingly he and most of his retinue went thither but no sooner was be set forwards on his journey to the Emperor's Court but the wicked Fustagon waiting his opportunity gasned possession of the Castle where Leonarda was and first attempting her by fair means and sâ—â—ding that ineffectual he at length forced her to leave her own Castle and go with him to his I being one of her principal Damsels attended her in that unpleasant journey where when we came the poor Princess was made Prisoner and without any respect to her sex or condition unkindly treated and she refusing to accept him for a Husband he told her that then she must resolve to permit him to enjoy her or else he would compel her by forâ—e She gave him the best words she could at prefect hoping for relief from her Father and the Prince Arsileo who soon after had notice of her misfortune and therefore bâ—th left the Court and travelled thitherwards to relieve her But this cunning Villain Fustagon suspecting some such matter and believing that if he could get the Father or Lover into his power that then he might accomplish his ends upon the Princess he therefore put himself in the way that they were to come and having a parcel of Knights as wicked as himself who had promised to assist him in his wicked design such was the misfortune of my Princess that he met fought with vanqâ—ished and took Prisoners both her Father and Lover and having them in his possession surely guarded carried them to his Castle and presented them to the Princess telling her that now if she would not grant to his desires and agrée to marry him he would cause them both to be murdered before her eyes She was mightily perplexed at her great misfortune and all that she could gain of this Monster was to give hâ—â— a moneths time to consider of this matter promising then to give him a positive answer And this she did in hopes to be relieved by some of her Fathers Subjects but they faling her she made such shift as she not me out of the Castle commanding me to go with all spéed to the Emperor's Court to get asuÌ„stance from thence And thus continued this Damsel have I given you a brief but true account of my Princesses misfortunes and the cause of my hasty journey and therefore if you are willing to assist me in this enterprize make no delays but face about and I will conduct you to the place where all these unfortunate People are kept The two Princes Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore néeded not many arguments to induce them to assist in so just a cause not only the defence and assistance of all Ladies in general obliging them thereto but that in particular of a Lady their Fathers Subject whom they very well knew and their near and dear Kinâ—maâ— Don Arsileo for whose assistance and deliverance they knew themselves very much obliged and were very joyful that after so long an absence from their own Country they might now at their return be instrumental in acting any thing that should be worthy of them wherefore they soon faced about and bidding the Damsel put on they and their whole Troop followed her And now being upon their way they inquired several things of her as first how far it was thither To which she replied not above one days journey Then how this Giant Fustagon was accompanied and how they might get into his Castle To this the Damsel replied that he had two hundred Knights in his company within the Castle and had twice that number in places not far distant and that several wicked Knights did every day come 〈◊〉 to him to his assistance all which he entertained fearing and expecting Forces from my Ladies Fathers Subjects or from the Emperor to come against them and therefore he is so well provided with Knights within and without and the Castle is so well fortified that it will be a very difficult enterprize to gain it by force wherefore it will be better in my opinion said she for some to get in by policy and so surprize it The Damsels counsel was very well approved of and they now riding on and coming within two miles of the place again consulted what was to be done and thereupon they resolved to divide themselves into thrée Squadrons which should all be that night about midnight within hearing of the sound of a Trumpet of the Castle and then should attempt to enter and that Don Clarineo and five more valiant and resolved Knights would get in as Friends to Fustagon and so let in the rest and perform their enterprize This being thus resolved upon Don Clarineo and the five other Knights in his Company marched on alone leaving the Damsel to conduct the rest and whéeling about approached the Castle as 〈◊〉 coming from a strange Country and being espied by the Centries they still came nearer and being come within hearing the Centries demanded who they were and what they would have They replied they were Friends and came to speak with their Lord Fustagon When they had thus answered they came nearer and were come to the Castle Gate and the Guard there séeing them so few in company permitted them to enter and they were presently conducted to the presence of Fustagon When they came near him Don Clarineo saluted him telling him that he belonged to a near Kinsman of his named Baâ—stoon who desiring to be kindly remembred to him and understanding that he might have some occasion for his assistance had sent them to wait on him for that purpose and intended himself with larger assistance to come to him in few days To this Fustagon answered that they were very welcome but he did believe that he should not have any occasion to trouble his Kinsman for he hoped that the Lady Leonarda would grant his desires fairly and then all would be well again but said
Scaffold All things being thus ordered at the sound of several Trumpets the Giant entred the Lists he was mounted on a mighty Horse and armed with an Armor made of the Shells of several Fishes which were harder then any Diamond his Helmet was carried by one Knight on foot and his Lance by another He being entred the cause of the Combat was proclaimed and the King's award thereupon that done the Iudges demanded of the Damsel If she would still justifie what she had said She replied Yes and thereupon produced the Giant for her Champion The Counfess was then called to and asked Whether or no she was guilty of the fact wherewith she was charged She replied Not guilly And her Champion being demanded she told the Iudges That her chiefest Champion was the God of Justice from whom she expected and hoped for Justice but for any humane Champion she was unprovided The Giant hearing this began to prance about and boastingly to say What is it that deters these cowardly Knights that they come not forth to the Battle surely they all conclude her guilty or else are fearful of my presence but if that be the cause if any be so bold as to undertake her cause I will ingage with any two three or four of them That shall not need proud Monster replied the Knight of Cupid who was now entred the Lists for I my self if the Lady please will undertake you alone and I question not but the justice of her cause assisting me to make you in this place repent these arrogant speeches Young Dastard replied the Giant what madness possesses your brain to be so bold to come into my presence whose very looks have vanquished twenty such Knights and made them run away like sheep You shall find it much otherwise then you expect replied the Knight of Cupid as I hope ere many hours are past and therefore Madam said he to the Countess I hope you will admit me for your Champion and then I will do my utmost devoir to vindicate your Honour Alas Sir replied she I must and do accept of you and if you have but as good success as my cause deserves you may though as yet improbably expect the better in the Combat He made his reverence to her and then went to the Iudges who accordingly admitted him He had hitherto béen bare-headed and thereby discovered one of the most manly but withal the most pleasant countenances that had béen séen and he did somewhat resemble that blind god Cupid that was pictured on his Shield so that all the Spectators did much pity that one so young and handsome should indanger himself against so monstrous a Creature He having now made his reverences to the King and Quéen rode to the end of the Lists and took his Helmet from his Squire Florello and his Lance from his Dwarf and buckling on his Helmet he putting his Lance in his Rest expected the sound of the Trumpets which beginning he spurred on amain and encountring his Enemy on the brest made him bend backwards and he himself had such an encounter on the Shield that it much bruised it and so they passed on but both of them finding that their Lances were yet whole and that they had not much dammaged one another they again began another carere which was performed with such violence that the Giant fell from his Horse and the Knight of Cupid was dismounted with his saddle betwéen his legs The Giant who was fallen soon got on his féet and being inraged at his misfortune drawing his Sword came up to the Knight of Cupid who was hardly ready to receive him he was so incumbred with the saddle so that he received a mighty blow on the Helmet that he thought all had béen fire but he coming to himself returned the Giant so mighty a blow on the arm that finding the way where the shells were closed it much wounded him He who had never found so weighty a blow from any Knight or Giant in all his life was now so inraged that séeing his blood come he roared like a Bull and lifting up his mighty Sword in the Air intended to cleave the Knight in pieces which he séeing avoided but not so well but that he was wounded in the leg And now they being both wounded gave and received several blows which made the blood to issue out of their wounds Great was the wonder of the Spectators séeing the Knight of Cupid hold out so valiantly against the Giant who being so assured as he thought of the Victory before he began and now kept off so long was grown mad with anger and let fall so many blows and so fast that he was out of breath This the Knight of Cupid saw and only warded them with his Shield or stepping aside avoided them The Giant although he was near tired with the continual pains he had taken yet believing by the Knights only defending himself and avoiding his blows that he was near vanquished laid on the faster and that so long that he was forced to retire for breath which the Knight of Cupid séeing he made up to him and now being in good heart and lusty he poured so many blows upon the Giant that he wounded him in several places he being so unweildy that he could not turn away with that nimbleness the Knight of Cupid had done and now all were in good hopes that the Knight of Cupid would have the better of the Combat for the Giant was so tired that he could hardly defend himself much less offend his Enemy and the smart of his wounds much more tormented him He was now therefore so much inraged that he fell in upon the Knight and desperately wounded him though he received one himself but being now near one another the Giant advanced his Sword and intended to have cut the Knight in twain and much hurt it must of necessity have done him had it hit him fully but however he was much prejudiced by the blow for their Swords méeting the Giants Sword cut the Knight of Cupid's Sword in two Thus was our poor Knight distressed being thus disatmed and he had no way to help himself but only by avoiding the blows of the Giant who now forced him about the Field at his pleasure Much was the sorrow of all the Assembly but that of the Countess excéeded them all but the Page Florello at this killing spectacle had fallen down in the Field if the Dwarf had not catched hold of him The Knight of Cupid séeing the condition he was in like a valiant Knight did not despair but watched all opportunities to close with the Giant and dispossess him of his Sword but that was not only difficult but dangerous wherefore he séeing a Battle-ax hanging at the saddle-bow of the Giant resolved to possess himself of that wherefore he retired thitherwards and being now near the Giant 's Horse he threw the Hilt and that part of his own Sword that remained in his hands at
to the Guard there crying out Stop the Traytor who hath outraged us The Guard which consisted of six Knights and above twenty Halberdiers at this cry put themselves in a posture to seize on him and one who was holder then the rest reaching out his arm to seize on his Bridle for his presumption had it cut off near the shoulder for the Knight of Cupid having already lost his Lance had now only his Sword with which he did such execution that although they pressed all forwards together yet he made them stand further off and those that came within the reach of his Sword were either killed or maimed 〈…〉 in short time all this Company were so routed that they 〈…〉 the City Gate for refuge and shutting it too kept him from 〈◊〉 He séeing this was forced to be content and wait there to consider what he had to do but he had not waited long ere the Gate was opened and a large power was ready to receive him 〈…〉 the middle of them was one who séemed to be their Chief 〈◊〉 who indeed was their King Owen Roe O Neale who hearing of the wonderful valour of this single Knight was himself come in person to sée him But he not taking notice of the great quantity of Men or the presence of the King made his way towards them who now having their King in their company laid lustily about them and he defended himself very couragiously but however being overpressed with the multitude that assaulted him on all sides he could not hinder his Horse from being slain He finding that his Horse was killed leaped from him and again put himself in a posture to withstand his Enemies and as his Horse had served him living so now he was serviceable to him being dead for he leaving him behind him hindred his Assailants from injuring him that way The King all this while séeing the mighty valour of the Knight of Cupid was agast but he had so great a power with him that he was sure to kill him if he pleased but being desirous to have him alive he cried out Sir Knight cease this fruitless exercise of your valour for in the end you must cerrainly be slain and surrender your self to me who on the word of a King promise that no harm shall be done to you Our Knight hearing this replied I cannot believe any one in a Country where I have been so discourteously used and therefore I shall stand upon my own defence and I hope before I die yet to send a great number of your discourteous and villa nous Subjects to the other World and thereupon he still so laid about him that the dead he had killed lay on heaps about him The King now séeing the death of so many of his Subjects before his eyes and finding his mercy sleighted commanded a fresh party to fall on him and hew him to pieces Iust as the King gave this command the Squire Florello who had béen all this while wéeping at the sad condition of his Master made way up to them and throwing himself from his Horse fell on his knées before the King desiring him to stay the execution of his commands but for one minute while he sâ—â—ke with his Lord. The King by his gestures to his People commanded them to stay And then Florello approaching his distressed Master fell on his knées before him Increating him for Heavens sake and for his dear Lady Florida's to yield to the King who be know would be merciful By this tune the fury of the Knight of Cupid was asâ—waged and considering that if 〈◊〉 should procéed in fight he must néeds miscarry it being impossible for one single Knight to oppose an whole Kingdom â—e therefore said to Florello For her sake you named I shall be ruled by you and thereupon he advanced towards the King and taking the point of his Sword in his hand he presented the shell of it to the King saying I who never yet submitted to any Person throughout the whole Universe do now commit my self into your hands and power advising you to make such use of it as that no other Knight-errant for my sake may have cause to complain of your breach of promise The King accepted his Sword and commanded he should he guarded to the Castle when he was come thither he demanded Why he had disobeyed his first commands of being brought before him he intending no more to him then to all others who arrived in his Coasts which was to impose a reasonable Oath The Knight of Cupid replied But it seemed to me to be unreasonable to be compelled to any thing I being willing of my self to do all reasonable things therefore Sir continued he if you please to let me know what the Oath is I am to take I shall then resolve you whether I think it reasonable and if so I shall willingly subscribe to it but if it be otherwise and that in point of honour I cannot do it I will die before I yield to it Although said the King the loss of so many of my Subjects by you slain calls to me for justice and vengeance against you yet I shall as a lover of justice to you a Stranger pardon that so as for the future you do not disobey me Know then said he that the Oath I would have you to take is this That you will not without my leave take up Arms for any other Prince in this Land and there is but justice in the case because it is owned by all that I am the Supreme Governor in this Kingdom I do not contradict what you say replied the Knight of Cupid but however I desire before I take an Oath to be further satisfied in the meaning and reason of it The King being very willing to-gain this Knight to his party told him that although the relation of the full cause was somewhat long yet he would relate it to him and thereupon began This Kingdom of which I am principal King and Governor is also governed by three other Princes under me whereof one is my Brother and the other two though allied to me yet are at this time somewhat disobedient for contrary to their Allegiance to me their Sovereign they have made War against one another to the disturbance of my whole Kingdom and although I have sent to them to desist yet they are so obstinate as to proceed and now I being intended according to my duty to force them to theirs and to that end intending to raise Forces to go against them have thought fit to take order That no strange Knights that come into my Dominions shall assist either of them and so prolong the War and to that end I impose this Oath I do believe Sir replied the Knight of Cupid that you have reason on your side but yet I am not fully satisfied of my taking any Oath unâ—il I know the cause why these two other Princes make War That you may so I am willing to
the King of Ulster resided she who had béen the unhappy cause of all these Wars which she confidering of and that she might be the cause of her Father's ruine considered also which way to prevent it and therefore sent to her Lover Owen Mac O Brian Prince of Conaught to desire him to lay down his Arms and leave her to the disposal of her Father for if he obstinately persisted she would never have him although frée to dispose of her self and séeing his first taking up of Arms against her Father had béen for her sake to hinder her marriage with Flusteron so she desired him that for her sake he would also lay down his Arms and then she questioned not but her Father would be induced to do so too and a Peace would follow and she hoped then so to order affairs as that she might content him and her self This Prince who was still in Arms in his own Province and only waited the motions of the two other Armies now hearing the desires of his Princess knew not what to resolve on but being willing to oblige her in all he could and not thinking it convenient to lay down Arms till the War was ended he resolved on a third course which was to take past with her Father relieve and assist him against the King and thereby as he hoped oblige him to bestow his Daughter on him and therefore away he marcheth with all his Army towards the City of Dundrom where the King and the Knight of Cupid had besieged the King of Ulster The news of his approach surprized the King neither did the Prince of Ulster know what he intended but he soon sent a Letter to acquaint him that although he had appeared his Enemy when alone in the Field yet now that he saw him likely to be oppressed by the King and his numerous and victorious Forces be would joyn interests with him till he had fréeâ— himself of so potent an Enemy and that then afterwards it would be time enough for them to consider of their own private quarrel which he hoped would be put to a good end and that at least if he would not let him have the happiness of having his Daughter yet he would not compel her against her will to be married to another The Giant Flusteton hearing of this message and supposing it might turn to his disadvantage would not permit the Prince of Ulster to return him any answer but told him that he would take such order that the King of Lemster should soon be enforeed to withdraw his Forces and the way he propounded was this that they being weâ—â— fortified néed not fear any assault in that place and if they â—ould be put to the utmost extremity they might escape by sea but he did not expect any such matters because the Prince of Conaught would hinder the King from procéeding so forwards and he leaving a sufficient Party to secure the Princess left the City of Dundrom and went to his own Country and there raising another great Party he roved up and down and at length entring the Province of Lemster in the King's absence did much mischief burning and destroying all places where he came thinking by this means to force the King to raise his siege and return home to guard his own Country But the King not knowing of this mischief but séeing the Forces of the Prince of Conaught sent to know why he came thither armed commanding him to depart and disband his Forces He answered that he could not indéed deny but that he was his Sovereign and therefore ought to be obeyed but that withal what he did was for self-preservation and to serve a Mistress whom he estéemed above all for he believed that if he should permit him absolutely to conquer his Neighbor the Prince of Ulster and thereby his Mistress would also be destroyed it would not be long before he served him in the same manner and so become absolute not permitting them their antient Principallity to which they had as much right as he to his absolute Sovereignty and therefore the cause why he could not obey him at present was because he was resolved not to sit still and first sée his Neighbors Principallity taken from him and then his own This was the answer he sent whereupon the King sent away to his Brother Mac Guire Prince of Munster and Father to Peter of Ireland to raise what Forces he could and come to his assistance resolving to compel these two Princes to obey him The Prince of Munster knowing of the War and doubting of the events thereof had already raised an Army to be in readiness and therefore was quickly on his way to his Brother before Dundrom but in the mean time the Giant Flusteron had committed many villanies for he had surprized the antient City of Tredagh in Lemster and destroying the Inhabitants very much ruined the City it self and now hearing that the Prince of Munster was ingaged against his Party he marches into his Country and spoils many places there but more particularly the Town of Rabennee which he set on fire and now all the Kingdom of Ireland was ingaged in a War which was very bloody and all occasioned by the wilfulness of this Monster Flusteron who now supposing it necessary makes all haste possible to the City of Dundrom and getting into it gives an account of his villainies By the assistance which he brought the City was so well relieved that it was resolved they would no longer be inclosed within the walls but go out and face and fight their Enemies knowing that if the Prince of Conaught did them no good he would not harm them by assisting their Enemies wherefore he making all the Forces he could marched out of the City and being fleshed and encouraged by the success he had abroad hoped to have the same here in the Field and now being resolved to fight he questioned not but he should conquer and therefore was so bold as to send to the King to defie him and to appoint a pitcht Battle thrée days after or sooner if he would The King hearing of his presumption called his Councel to advise what was to be done And there the Knight of Cupid advised the King to agrée to the Battle to be fought thrée days after and in the mean time to have a Truce so that any single Persons might be frée to visit their Enemies Camp or City All this was agréed on by all Parties and the Knight of Cupid having leave of the King and power to treat as he thought fit was resolved to treat with all Parties and sée if by his prudent management he might put an end to this War without fighting Whereupon the chief occasion of this War being about the Marriage of the Princess Honora he first went to her and there he examining her to every thing found that she had an absolute antipathy against and hatred to the Giant Flusteron her intended Husband and
possession of the wall in many places which they at last kept in despight of all the Forces of the City and were ready to descend the wall and enter the City when they heard a great noise of Trumpets and Clarions and a great company of armed Knights behind them who gave a great assault to those of their Forces that were below at which they were greatly astonished and séeing them come forward with a great deal of impetuosity and destruction of many of their Forces the chief Commander who had getten the possession of the wall came down to help their companions and the rest who still remained on the wall were soon forced from thence and thrown headlong down where they ended their lives Thus was the Battel again revived and many of the Souldans Knights and Gyants lost their lives by the invincible arms of four or five Knights who came in company of the late Forces that came to relieve the City but among the rest there was one Knight who was armed with an armor garnisâ—ed with Basilisks that put all men to amaze for they rather judged him to be a raging Tyger or hungry Lion then any mortal Knight for in a short time he dismounted above fifty Knights and killed four Giants and yet he was not at all wearied but still bestowed such deadly strokes amongst the Souldans knights that they all fled from him as from their immediate death till at last the two brothers Caroliano and Boraldo both assaulted him and laid many weighty strokes both on his shield and helmet but he reached one of them so great a blow that he made him catch hold on his horses neck to save himself from falling and then being much enraged gave the other such a thrust that he tumbled him from his horse and so he procéeded killing and destroying all that durst withstand him In the mean time his other four companions were not idle for they behaved themselves with extraordinary courage It was two hours before day when this battel first began and now it was about four of the clock in the afternoon and yet it was not ended but at last the Souldans Knights and Giants being much wearied were about to retreat when they once more saw fresh Forces coming towards them which was indéed commanded by the Souldan himself wâ—o séeing the Battel continue so long and understanding by a messenger that the City was likely to be relieved came on with all his Forces to assist his Son whereby he might as he hoped put an end to this troublesom War but he found himself to be bravely received by the Knight of the Basilisks and his companions When they in the City saw this they informed the Emperor Don Bellaneo thereof who commanded one of the Gates to be immediately opened out of which he issued with ten thousand men and went immmediately to the place where the Knight of the Basilisks was engaged and séeing him do such wonders and supposing him to command the rest he said to him Knight since you have though unknown endeavored to give us so great aid I yray let it be used to the best advantage which will be at this time with all convenient spéed to retire into the City else you will presently be overpowred by their great Forces and then your asssistance will be of little effect The Knight of the Basilisks gave attention to this advice and knowing not only the person that gave it but that it was also very good endeavored by his own example and actions to retire to the City and so he and his companions did with all their Forces only with the loss of tvvo thousand men vvhich vvere killed in the Battel and retreat And the Souldan and his Son the Knight of the Images séeing themselves forced to retire from the City walls by reason of the approaching of the night which was now coming on retired into their enemies trenches with a resolution to abide there till they could take the City but they were prevented as hereafter shall be declared CHAP. II. Who the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions were and how the Siege was raised and the Souldan and all his Forces retired to Persepolis SO soon as the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions were entred the City the Emperor caused a strait Guard to be placed on the Walls and then retired to the Pallace where he was welcomed by the two Princesses Peâ—siana and Aurora but greatly was the joy of all increased when the Knight of the Basilisks discovered himself to be Don Bellianis Knight of the Golden Image and his Companions to be his two Brothers Don Clarineo of Spain and Don Lucidamore of Thessaly and his Cousin Don Brianel of Macedon but there was one Knight who continued still unknown to all but the Duke Alfiron who being unarmed knew him to be his brother Don Gorino and indéed to him they were very much ingaged for his help and assistance for he was not only a good Knight himself but he had brought twenty thousand valiant Knights and Soldiers with him to aid his Brother and the Knight of the Basilisks and his Companions overtaking him in their return from Antioch and understanding that his design was only to relieve the City of Bollera and their Iourney being intended for the same place they discovered themselves to him to be friends to his Brother the Duke Alfiron and thereupon they joyned themselves together and arrived at the City in so fortunate a time that had they not come as they did the City must néeds have been taken by the Enemies by reason of their great forces and the small power that was within to oppose them but their arrival in so fortunate a time caused the Souldan to loose his design and made him retreat as we have before told you with the loss of one hundred thousand men and many valiant Knights and Giants But however he was resolved not to leave the City walls till he had not only taken it but also destroyed it and razed it to the ground in revenge to the Injuries he had received of Duke Alfiron and his Companions But here we will leave him without the City and return to our Champions within who little feared him and all his Forces The Princess Aurora being informed of the return of Don Brianel sent for him to give her an account of his adventures in Antioch and it was not long ere he accompanied with his two Companions Don Clarineo and Don Lucidamore came into her presence and falling on his knées to kiss her hand she refused to grant it but raised him and his Companions from the ground with much fréedom and joy he being somwhat emboldned by her fréedom did arise and salute her which she courteously received and then she seating her self in her Chair caused other seats to be brought for Don Brianel and his Companions where they being seated and Don Brianel knowing for what cause he was sent for immediately declared
unto her the good success of his Embassie and how that by the assistance of those two Knights there present and of their brother Don Bellianis as also by the advice and help of Palineo and Damartino he had flain the Vsurping King Tramolcano and the Count Garino and reduced the Kingdom to her obedience and that there was nothing now wanting but her presence to make her subjects happy and that they were all ready to obey her in every thing and in the mean time till she could come thither they had sworn Oaths of Allegiance to Damartino according to her orders and command This news greatly contented the Princess and she returned many thanks to Don Brianel and his Companions after which they departed from her presence and went to the place where the Emperor his Son and Duke Alfiron wich the rest of the Commanders were in Counsel about what was necessary to be done as well for the defence of themselves as for the offending of their enemies and there it was concluded to send Don Clarineo to Persepolis to attend the landing of two hundred thousand men who were come from Greece with the Emperor and â—ave him orders that he should conduct these Forces directly to Persepolis to assault it that thereby the Souldan hearing thereof might be enforced to withdraw his Forces to aid that City and so they should be left frée This determination was immediately put in execution and Don Clarineo in company of fifty Knights presently departed and travelled so long that night that the next morning they arrived within two leagues of Persepolis and then they took another way and went somewhat about that they might travel undiscovered and so they did till they arrived at the Sea-side where they immediately embarqued themselves and ranging about the Sea for some time they at last discovered the Navy and approaching to them went aboard the Admiral and immediately causing the principal of the Captains and other Commanders to come aboaâ—d he declared the will of the Emperor to which they all promised ready obedience and thereupon they presently set sayl for Persepolis and they had not sayled six hours before they discovered the shore where they landed without any interruption and leaving a sufficient company to guard the Navy they immediately marched on to Persepo is where they arriving endeavored to enter but were strongly repulsed by the Souldans Forces and the place being very well fortified they were forced to retire and fortifie themselves in Trenches near the City till they had further orders from the Emperor The City of Persepolis being thus assaulted some of the Forces went immediately to the Souldans Camy before Bollera to certifie him thereof where hey arrived one morning early just as the Souldan and his Son wit all their Forces were going to assault the City but they were much astonished with this news and did greatly wonder from whence all those Forces should arrive however commanding the Messengers to silence they resolved to give the on-set to the City before they departed and thereupon went forwards with all their accoutrements of War Perianeo Knight of the Images being extraordinarily enraged immediately got a Ladder and mounted the wall where he soon either cut in pieces or tumbled down all such as were placed there to oppose him and was ready to have descended the wall and entred the City when the Emperor himself and several other valiant Knights in his company came and resisted him Many fierce and hardy blows were given and received on both sides for they had both an implacable hatred to each other and the Emperor knowing that if he could vanquish that enemy he should easily force the rest to retire laid mighty strokes on the Knight of the Images so that in the end he put him quite out of breath and inforced him to retire from the wall in despite of all the resistance he could possibly make all this while the rest of the Knights and Giants on both sides were not idle but did their uttermost endeavors the one to posses and the other to defend the wall which indeed was to well guarded by so many valiant and magnanimous Knights that indéed the flower of all Chivalry was there present and therefore the Moat which incompassed the City was in a manner filled with the blood and dead bodies of the assaylants which the Souldan perceiving and knowing that his presence was required and endéed more necessary in another place he caused his Forces to recreat which he could hardly effect in regard of the desperateness of the Fight in all places at last he withdrew his Forces and finding that he had gained nothing but that this onâ—â—e had cost him the loss of fifty thousand men he resolved to depart that might and retire to Persepolis Those in the City séeing their Enemiés withdrawn in good order returned to their several Quarters where they greatly rejoyced in their good fortune The Emperor and his Son with all the rest of those couragious Knights resolving the next day to issue out of the City and set upon their Enemies in the open field but when the next morning was come and they were read to put this their resolution in execution they found that all their enemies were departed having taken the benefit of the night for that purpose wherefore they went and disarmed themselves and then went again to counsel where they resolved to 〈◊〉 as followeth CHAP. III. How Don Bellaneo the Emperor and the rest of the Knights and Forces followed the Souldan to Persepolis and that which happened ethre THe Emperor Don Bellaneo and the rest of the Knights being entred into Council it was concluded that every one should provide himself to depart from that City and follow the Souldan they very well knowing that the Forces of the Emperor under the command of Don Clarineo being arrived at Persepolis and the Souldan being informed thereof was the cause of his so sudden departure wherefore Don Alfiron the Emperor Don Bellianis and the rest of the knights went immediately to put their Forces in readiness which when they had done they came to the Court to the Ladies to take their farewel of them The Princess Parsiana was much troubled and perplexed that she should so soon leave her husband the Duke and was greatly discontented that all this War was occasioned thorough her Marriage with the Duke whereby the lives of so many brave Knighes were put into continual jeopardy wherefore she besought the Duke her Husband Don Bellaneo and his son Don Bellianis to use their utmost endeavors to reconcile this difference betwéen her husband and het Father without the effusion of any more blood which they promised to endeavor The Princess Aurora was like wise much troubled that her affairs was thus hindred by these Wars but her discontent was the greater in that Don Brianel and she must pâ—rt wherefore she applyed her self to Don Bellianis and calling him Her Deliverer desired him to make
satisfie you in every thing replied the King I tell you that one of these Princes named Owen O Coneele who is Governor of a Province called Ulster hath a Daughter named Honora who is very fair and virtuous and as I understand is beloved by the other Prince named Owen Mac O Brian who is Governor of another Province called Conaught and I believe this Princess doâ—h also love the same Owen Mac O Brian but her Father is not willing out of some former feuds and quarrels between them to give her in marriage to him who loves her but rather chooses to bestow her in marriage with Flusteron a furious Giant who lives on the Mountains of Callingford in the Province of Ulster and is indeed but his own Subject The young Lady is very unwilling to be married to this Giant and her Sweet-heart the Prince of Conaught out of desire to have her himself or at least-wise to hinder her Father from bestowing her on the Giant hath raised an Army and the Prince of Ulster her Father by the assistance of his intended Son in Law hath raised another and they have already ingaged in a War which although I have commanded them to desist from and to leave off yet they still proceed with such violence that many have on both sides been slain and all this whole Country which hath for many years been governed by me in Peace are now ingaged in a bloody War either on one side or the other and we are likely if some speedy course be not taken to ruine one another and for this end I thought fit to impose the Oath I have told you of The Knight of Cupid having given good attention to the King's discourse made this answer Sir I must confess you have Justice on your side and I am freely willing not only to take the Oath you impose but also to give you my utmost assistance in the War but withal I make bold to tell your Majesty my opinion that it is very unjust to compel the Princess Honora to be married to the Giant whom she loveth not and therefore I am unwilling to assist in any thing to compel her thereto and setting aside that particular affair I shall be ready to obey your Majesty in any of your Majestie commands and I hope with so good success that I shall make your Majesty some part of amends for the loss of those Subjects who have through their own rashness fallen by my hand for had they acquainted me with the matter as your Majesty hath done I should have been as obedient to them as now I am unto your Majesty The King replied That since what was passed could not be helped he hoped he would not take any thing amiss on his part and then all should be forgotten And thereupon the Knight of Cupid taking his Oath had his Sword delivâ—red to him and was conducted to Lodgings appointed him by the King whitherto being attended by his Squire and Dwarf he retired and disarming himself lay down to take some rest which he had great occasion for in respect of the great travel he had béen at that day And now the King having the Knight of Cupid in his Court was resolved forthwith to march with his Army and try if he could compel these two angry Princes to agrée and lay down their Arms and therefore he soon after marched towards the famous City of Drummore in the Province of Ulster where then the Prince of that Province resided Being come near the place he sentâ—a Messenger to command him in his Majesties name to disband his Army and suffer all to depart and promising that if he did so he would command the Prince of Conaught to do so likewise and if he should refuse so to do he would turn his whole force upon him and compel him also to do the same The Giant Flusteron who was then in the Prince of Ulster's Army and reposing much confidence in his own strength returned answer That if he intended to be obeyed there he must first sée the Prince of Conaught obey him in what he said or else they were resolved to defend themselves The King hearing of this proud answer was resolved to procéed against them and the Knight of Cupid who had no a fection for the Giant Flusteron but rather inclined to the part of the Prince of Conaught advised the King to assault the City and take it by force and thereupon in short time after the assault was given and that so couragiously that notwithstanding all the resistance of the King of Ulster or the Giant Flusteron it was taken and this furious Monster séeing that he could not hold it was resolved rather then any else should to destroy it himself wherefore he caused it to be set on fire in six several places so that in few hours that proud and losty City of Drummore was ruined and still remains a sad spectacle to all Travellors The King of Ulster being forced out of this ruined City fled with the rest of his Army to another City of his called Dundalk and there fortified himself and the Giant Flusteron going to his own Territories in the Mountains of Callingford gathered together a-very strong party among which he brought many furious Monsters and with this Recruit he relieved his intended Father in Law the Prince of Ulster then in Dundalk and now believing themselves strong enough not only to oppose the King but to méet him in the Field they went out of the City but to their loss for the Knight of Cupid who commanded the Van of the Kings Army did set upon the Giant and his Party so vigorously that notwithstanding all the apposition he could make he forced them into the City The King had many approved good Knights and some Giants who lived on the Mountains of Wicklow in his own Province of Lemster but more especially one who commanded the rest and who was indéed but little inferior to the Giant Flusteron and these two did often encounter each other so that the Knight of Cupid had not yet had the opportunity of trying the force of the Giant Flusteron himself but employing his courage in other places soon made them fly before him And now the Enemy was again inclosed within the City and summons being again given him to obey the King's command and he proudly refusing they were assaulted with the same success as before for after a violent resistance it was taken and now the Knight of Cupid séeing they so much delighted in streing the former City of Drummore caused the City of Dundalk to be also stred and thus in few days were two brave Cities ruined And now the King of Ulster being still obstinate and perswaded by the Giant Flusteron or else indéed over-ruled by him they fled from one place to another till they came to the City of Dundrom which being a famous Sea-port Town was reckoned to be very secure and there the Princess Honora Daughter to