the whole Nobility for they had all great fancy to hear him speak expecting what he should say would be so much to the purpose that every word would be a sentence the Emperour then being moved with anger and incredible sorrow with a troubled and angry countetenance demanded of the seven wise Philosophers if this was the wisdom and great perfection which they had caused him to believe his Son was endowed with saying that he was compleat in all things and what doctrine they had taught him not to answer his Father being an Emperour what Philosophy is this quoth the good Emperour in what Aristotle or Plato have you found the doctrine for instead of being wise and well instructed as you informed me every one sees that he is ignorant a Sot and without understanding but I assure you by the words of a Prince that ye shall be punished according to your deserts The Philosophers seeming to be as much surpriz'd as the rest to see Erastus thus mute said to the Emperour know Sir that we have not informed you Majesty any thing touching your Son that is not true so that here is not any Philosopher modern nor antient to whom he may not be compared Being as well or better taught than any man whatsoever of this age to tell you wherefore he is at this present mute we know not but we can well assure your Majestie that it is not done without great cause which nevertheless is unknown to us for being Master of so much knowledge he well enough knows when he ought to speake and whâ—n â—o hâ—ld his peace But let the Philosophers sâ—y wâ—â—â—â—hâ—y would the Emperour could not be appeâ—sâ—â— but being transpâ—râ—ed with anger hâ— repâ—â—â—◠〈◊〉 Erastus câ—uld have no reason to be 〈◊〉 in his pâ—eteâ—ce And thus being both angry 〈…〉 Sâ—n in this condition he left him 〈…〉 â—ed wiâ—h the Nobility that accompanied 〈◊〉 Thâ— Eâ—â—â— ss hearing the noise of horses went 〈◊〉 meet the Emperour being attended by all her â—â—â—yeâ—â—nd the Roman Princesses and having underâ—oâ—â—â— from him the small satisfaction he had took in seeing his Son and she beholding Prince Erastus To whom she was eâ—slaved without having seen him considering with her eyes that his beauty was beyond compare greater â—hen report had given of him she became wholy enâ—moured of him therefore with a merry cheerfull countenance she went to him and having very amorously embraced him she began to reason with him of many matters but the young Prince made her no answer whereupon the Empress was astonished yet however the fire that consumed her did not at all diminish but on the the contrary encreased in such manner that not being able to resist the violence of love which coâ—strained her she tooke occasion upon the Princis silence to encrease the flame of her disordâ—nate appetite and thereupon went towards the Emperour to whom she declared that every one very well knew that the silence of his Son was not because he was naturally mute as might appâ—are by what the Gentleman related who came frâ—m Erasâ—us â—uâ— the day before who affirmed that he had heard him dispute so ingeniously with his Masters tâ—at he rather judged him to be Master than the Scholler and therefore they might conclude that this silence was caused by some accident which she would undertake to discover and remedy having the young Erastus in her power in a place where they might be alone The Emperour believing what the Empress said was out of a good will to his Son not in the least suspecting her loyalty and being very desirous to discover the cause of his Sons silence and to give a remedy thereto He presently câ—maâ—ded that Prince Erastus should be led to the Chamber of the Empress and that they should be left alone the Empress seeing all thâ—ngs to fall out according to her expectations was very joyfull And promised the Emperour that she would use such meanes that his Son should speake â—n the other side the young Prince foreseeing the great attempts that should be made upon him was fearfull left he should be enforced to breake his resolution Nevertheless being resolved to vanquish the malignity of the stars by a strong and firm constancy he went cheerfully to the Empresses Chamber where in short time we may see by experience that hatred prevails more than love in the hearts of Ladyes CHAP. VII The Empress Aphrodicia being shut up alone with Prince Erastus endeavoured all she could to induce him to her appetite but seeing her self refused and disdained she made an outcry that he would hâ—ve foâ—ced her by which meanes the Prince was mâ—de Prisoner and condemned to Death THis cruell Tygress seeing her prey taken in the toylâ—◠〈◊〉 thouâ—â— losiâ—g one moment of time 〈◊〉 to her Chamber where being come she lookâ—d her self 〈◊〉 and having taken the young Prince by the hand she caused him to sit down by her and câ—lliâ—g her arme about his neck she embraced and kâ—ssâ—d him in a different fashion then what a mother uâ—es to her Son in fine after many kisses and embraces she asked the cause of his silence which held the Emperour and all the Roman people in so great trouble who in honour of him had caused his entry to be so magnificent She told him that every body had cause to thinke it strange that having lived a long time without seeing the Countrey his Father nor friends being came thither he did so apparently slâ—ghâ— them being a thing unhandsome in any person of understanding and much more in him who had bin accounted so discreet In this time the young Prince fixed his eyes on the ground without one word of answer knowing that to be his critical minute of holding his peace Whereupon the Empress being astonished she agen threw her self about his neck giving him an infin te of kisses but the more amorously she behaved her self the less regard he took of her The Empress seeing this spake to him in these terms What disdain is this or what other accident can have happened to you to cause you to be mute why do you not speak to me what do you fear remove all fear and tell me the cause of this silence and let me alone for I will carry it so both to the Emperour and all the world that every one shall be satisfied without imputing anything to you and if you have resolved to be silent to all others wherefore do you deny to speak to me to me who am so ravished with your love that I can enjoy no rest but when I think on you and now I see you and have meanes to speak to you I should be to happy if this unlucky silence did not at this time hinder me If you are beautyfull be not therefore cruell and if you are wise as report gâ—ves out of you wherefore do you grieve your father all the world if you have any discretion know who loves you if you are young I for
the Son of the King of Hungary fell sick and his destemper encreasing more and more upon him all the Physitians of that Kingdom gave him over for dead the King being troubled to lose his Son was advertised that if his Son might escape by Physick Hipocrates only could cure him for this skilful Physitian was renowned through all the World by means of his great knowledg and having conferred with the Queen about the matter who was also very sad for the sickness of the Prince her Son and very desirous of his recovery advised with all diligence to send Ambassadours to Hipocrates with great presents to indâ—re him besides far greater promises which the said Ambassadours were charged to make him to come and cure the young Prince of Hungary who without his help would unavoidably perish The Ambassadors being come to Hipocrates and having declared their charge and delivered their presents which the Kâ— g had sent which he kindly received he thus answered that he was as much troubled as the King their Master for the desire he had to do him humble service in regard that he could not go and therefore he entreated that his Majes y would excuse him by reason of his inability in respect of his great age he being now decriped and diseased in his body but however he would fully satisfie the desire of their Master by an only Nephew which he would send who being very â—kâ—lâ—ul being alwayes brâ—d up with him and prâ—ctised under him in such manner that he knew him â—â—ffiâ—iâ—nt for this cure and that thereâ—ore that the Kâ—â—g should not disesteâ—m him for hiâ— youthfulness for he should find him very able in hiâ— uâ—dâ—â—taking The Ambassador seeing Hipocrates not to be in a cond tion to travell and having a very good opinion of his Nephew took him wâ—th them and pâ— ceeded so on the r journey that they arived at the â—â—â—â—rt where thâ—y were well received oâ— the King and Queen and that they might not loose time the K â—g condâ—cted the Physition to his Sâ—n But whâ—n he had seen him and heard him speâ—k knew by his â—â— s gâ—ony and other signs that he was not the Kâ—â—gâ— Sâ—n and therefore before he would do any thâ—ng in â—rder to the cure being desirâ— uâ— to be resolved of the doubt he had conceived he desired to speak with the Queen alone whereupon being privately with her in her Chamber he thus began Madam if you please to tell me the truth of what I shall ask you I will in short time restore your Son to his former hâ—alth otherwise I can give you no assâ—rance of it The Queâ—n promised him with an Oath so desirous sâ—e was to see heâ— Son well not to conceâ—l any tâ—ing thâ—t he should d sire of her Then the Physitian said I dâ—sire only to know if the Father of the sick Child be here to this the Queen â—nswered do you think that any but the King is his Father to this the Physitian replyed since you are not pleased to tell me the truâ—h Iâ— will be gon and your Son will dye The Queen hearing this resolved so as she might save her Sons life to tell tâ—e Physitiâ—n that which she could not upâ—n any account lâ—t any Person in the world know and having taken on Oath of the Physitian to be secret in what she should tell hâ—m she blushing for shame thus began I would excuse my self but you are not ignorant of the sad condition that married Women are in who are Childless for in truth that is their only riches and content for the Husbands who can hâ—ve no Children of their Wives do hate them a◠〈◊〉 it were her fault and for this cause the poor Women are disdained slighted and ill used and their Husbands seek out other Women that they may have a Bastard to succeed them after their death This being my case having lived long with the King without any Child and being therefore accounted barren and slighted by every one I purposed to know whether the defect was in me or my Husband whereupon I having â—eâ—n the Miller come into the Couâ—t to bring in Câ—rn to the Granery and believing that to be a good oppertunity to execute my design because the King was gone a hunting and all my Women dispersed some in one place and some in an other I caussed him to enter into my Cabinet pretending to speak with him alone where he had to do with me and that several times after so that I perceived my self to be with Child and that I might the better wier the matter I caused the King to lye frequently with me so that at the time oâ— my Child-birth it was supposed to be the Kings Child and so it is still and after this I was better respâ—cted of the King and honoured by all wherefore I pray you to save him which I got by such art to my great peril The Physitian smileing to himself answered Madam take no further care I will restore your Son safe and sound and thereupon after many remedies which he gave to the sick person causing him to be nourished with gross meats according to his natural constitution he became well The Physitian then seeing his Patient in good case and out of danger and that it was time to return he took leave of the King and Queen who presented him with Gold and Silver and gave him good and honourable Company to attend him to his Uncle to whom he relâ—ted every partâ—cular that had hapned by which relation Hipocrates knew the great profit which his Nephew had made in so little time for which cause instead of takeing pleasure in regard he had so taught him he conceived a mortal hatred against him and doubting that the skil of his Nephew would deminish his renown in regard he was to succeed him and to possess a great many books which Hipocrates had composed according to the great experience of his time which would encrease the fame of his Nephew and diminish his own if his receits should come into his possession he therefore purposed privately to kill him and thereupon having caused him to come into his garden where he had all sorts of herbs he demanded if he knew their several vertues to which his Nephew answered yes he desired him to pluck up one of them which he named and as the young man stooped to the ground not doubting any thing the envious old man struck him between the head and shoulders with a hatchet which he had hidden under his gown and slew him at the first blow and to conceale his cruelty he buried him in the same place where he had killed him It hapned as God is just and leaves nothing unpunished that soon after Hipocrates fell sick of the bloody flux so violent that no medicine could stop it But Hipocrates to make tryal of his skil caused a great Vessel to be filled with water whereinto he having cast a certain powder he drew out several
an untruth and for that of which he was guilty he might justly expect to â—ail and be vanquished this they both beleived would happen and therefore consulted what to do and thus it was that they wanted the presence of their dear friend Entichus This consideration brought it into the minde of the Princess how that they should accomplish their business and therefore she having thus advised her Lover to take his opportunity very suddenly to speak with the Emperor and tell him that he had received Letters from the King his Father that he must needs go home suddainly because he was sick and therefore to desire his leave to dpart and to give longer time for the Combat which having obtained to go then immediately to King Entichus and desire his advice and assistance Prince Arthur followed the directions of the Princess in all these particulars and obtaining leave of the Emperor he travelled so long that he arrived at the Court of King Entichus and there privately be acquainted him with his affairs and the occasion of his journey King Entichus was very glad to see him and desirous to all things to advise and assist him but knew not how there is no way but this replyed Arthur that you return in my behalf and not being known to be other than my self on my befalf to perform the Battel and return King Entichus approved of what his friend Arthur had propounded but they were very much straitned for time in regard it was but eight dayes time to the day prefixed for the combate and if it were delayed for one day he could not possibly arrive there time enough and he had invited all his Nobility on the next day to come to his Weddâ—ng This was such an obâ—tacle as could not be removed or remedyed and put them to their wits ends but King Entichus being resolved to give an absolute proof of his friendship and hazard Kingdome Wife and Life and all rather than his friends should suffer in their honor he therefore thus contrived the business that Prince Arthur in all things resembling King Entichus should stay there and as if it were he be married to his Queen and hold all the solemnity of the Nuptials only when he was in bed with her to forbear proceeding with her and that he would immediately return to the Emperors Court and undertake the Combate and if he obtained the Victory suddainly return and so might he do so too to his best beloved this being concluded upon they seperated accordingly This was the sad condition of the poor unfortunate Entichus but on the other side Prince Arthur was as highly advanced for his father the King of England dying he became King and the Emperour of Germany dying and he marrying with the Princess Angelica he was crowned Emp. King Entichus understanding the fortune of his friend to be thus prosperous was joyful and resolved to go to him for releif in time of adversity and therefore putting on Hermits apparrel he travelled to the E. court where when he was arrived and would have entred he was turned out by the courtiers who could not indure the sight of so deform'd a monster wherefore he spak with one of the Emperor servants desiring him for the love of God to do a message for him The servant being a sober person bid him speak on on and say what he would have I desire said the Leaper that you go to the Emperour and tell him that here is a Leaper that desires for the love of God and King Entichus his sake that he may be admited to eat in some place this day in the Emperours presence The Servant told the Leaper that certainly his request would be refused but however he would perform his desire and thereupon went and told the Emperour who hearing the name of his dear friend King Entichus was so charmed therewith that he presently consented to the Leapers request commanding that he should eat in the Hall at a Table by himself and be respected as a person of honour Dinner time being come and the Emperour and his Courtiers being sat at Table the Leaper was also placed and served and when he had eaten he desired one of the Servitors to go to the Emperour and desire him for King Entichus his sake to send him his best Bowl ful of Wine This is an unreasonable request said the Servitor for my Lord the Emperour will never drink in it again if you should once touch it but however he went and delivered his Message to the Emperour who wondred at the request but performed what was desired and the Leaper receiving the Bowl drank off the Wine and taking the Ring which formerly the Emperour had given him put it into the Bowl and desir'd the Servitor to carry it to the Emperor who seeing the Ring and knowing it was amazed believing he should hear something of his dear friend Entichus wherefore he commanded that the Leaper should be look'd after conducted to his private Chamber that he might speak with him this his commands was obey'd and he arising from Dinner went to the Leaper and being alone with him he asked how he came by that ring very honestly replyed the Leaper I had it of the right owner who said the Emperor King Entichus no said the Leaper of Arthur Prince of England that cannot be replyed the Emperor for I am that Arthur and I gave it to none but my dear friend King Entichus that is confessed said the Leaper and since you still call Entichus your dear friend know that I am that unfortunate King Oh what impossibilities do you tell me said the Emperor nothing but what is too true replyed the King with tears in his eyes which by this time flowed too from the Emperors eyes down his cheeks in great abundance but his greif and passion having had this vent for a time he then ran to the Leapâ—rous King and kissed and embraced him crying out on my dear friend how is this great miâ—fâ—rtune befallen you you replyed the King are the occasion of it though I must confess you to be innocent how said the Emperor could I your friend be the cause of this misfortune and yet be innocent it is most certain replyed the King for your friendship to me in lyiâ—g with my wife and being innocent in not knowing her she supposeing you to be me hath so enragâ—d her that she revenged herâ—elf on me by poyson which hath wrought this dismal effect upon me so that your innocence occasioned my ruine and thereupon the King related the whole manner how it had befallen him and how he was turned out of his Kingdome Oh me unfortunate said the Emperor that I should occasion so much evil that my dear friend who hath so often hazarded his life for me should be thus evilly recompenced through my occasion I cannot said the King complain of you but of fortune to whom we must all submit well said the Emperor since you are still Master
mind told her that she must give no credit to Dreams being things without substance that vanish away whereupon she put on a mercy countenance and entertained the Emperour as she was wont until it was bed time which occasioned more pain to this poor Princess the Emperour for his part went to sleep but the Empress could not close her eyes for thinking of her affection to Erastus being of opinion that her affairs having had so prosperous a beginning she should lose noe time or occasion to bring it to that end so much desired by her and ruminating all the night on what means she should use to perfect her desires sometimes she doubted that the Slave was insufficient for an enterprise of so high a consequence otherwise she could not find any way possible to speak with Erastus because he was at Rome and alwayes accompanied with grave Phylosophers whose doctrine she very well knew was contrary to her appetite In conclusion she resolved to speak to him by Letters and Presents and so soon as the day began to appear that night in the opinion of the Empress being longer than usual she arose and being retired alone into her Cabinet she writ this Letter which followeth THE Empress Aphrodicia to her Friend Erastas health I doubt not but these presents will astonish you that I without respecting your grandeur have bin so bold to write to you without considering that I present to your fair eyes a thing so ill dictated as these presents and to cause your mouth so accustomed to all good learning to read this Letter destitute of all eloquence however I have not forborn putting Pen to paper being assured that your sublime spirit will measure my writeing according to the affection from whence it proceedeth and that you will have a greater esteem for it than if all the Oratory had been employed to assist me with Eloquence upon this occasion for according to the Poet Love hides many faults and to tell you truly how it is this God hath so fettered me that to obey him I have been forced thus to write to you praying you to receive and entertain it with a pleasant countenance believing that it is not simply paper but my self who with all my affection am transformed into it and I wish I were personally present with you assuring my self thâ—t I should enjoy the fruit of my desires which I hope are long by word of mouth to discover to you for it is impossible that your knowing spirit should not be acquainted with the secrets of my heart which is more yours then my own for you are Lord of it so as you will please to love that which with all her heart loves you However if your temper corresponds to your name for Erastus signifies amiable I hold my self assured that my recommendation shall be received which nevertheless I present to you with all possible affection and because I wondred at your absence at my Wedding with the Emperour I therefore pray you to take occasion to come and see me that you may let the World know that you are not dissatisfied with my alliance in doing whereof which I entreat of you you shall hear openly by word of mouth the rest of my secret which only tends to your profit honour and greatness In the mean time to testify the perfect love which I bear to you I send to you the most pretious things which I have being certain jewels which you shall find to be singular not only for their beauty and richness but also in regard they are peices of antiquity which my late Father gave particularly to me being the preciest things he was Master of and therefore I send them to you as better deserving to enjoy things so rare desiring you to accept of them with my heart And as you have the report to surpass iâ— every thing all other men that you not only permiâ— your self to be overcome by the force of a simple woman but let her know that your love is more ardent then hers if it were possible I wish you good health This Letter being written and sealed the Empress wrapped it up in fine cloath of Gold with many Jewels Pearls Diamonds Safers and many other pretious stones of inestimable value and enclosed all in a Cabinet of fine Gâ—ld which she delivered to her faithful slave charging him to carry it to Erastus advising him to find him alone and accompany the present with speeches proper to the intent of his message and the slave might perform this voyage with the more bravery she presented him with a horse and a good some of money The Slave thus dispatched in short time arrived at the Pallace where Prince Erastus studyed where by good Fortune he found him alone in his studdy and as to the matter of the present delivered his mesage as the Empress had commanded him without proceeding further but only to barâ— râ—commendations from his Mistress forbearing to deliver the rest of the message until he should understand how the Prince would accept of the pâ—eâ—ent being of the opinion that it would be impâ—ssâ—ble for a Prince of his age to sl ght such pretious Jewels as he had brought but Erastus having considered the richness of the present began to consider what might be the cause of the great liberallity of the Empress in regard that all women are naturally covetous But having found the Letter and read the contents of it he presently had some suspition although he could not absolutely believe love to be the cause but however in great anger he tore the Letter into prices and soundâ—y ratâ—ed the slave forbidding hâ—m upon his life never to come into his presence and that he should carry back the Jewels to his Mistress and use his endeavour to diswade her from her disordinate humours The slave being much troubled returned back to Rome and in his way thither he considered that if he should acquaint his Mistress of the truth of this affair his profit would be at an end and therefore being come into the presence of the Empress he spake thus Madam I do assure you that I have full and according to your intention executed the charge which you were pleased to give me and that the Prince Erastus is wholly at your dispose True it is that not thinking himself worthy of the great present which you sent him told me that your love was sufficient without depriving you of so great rarieties therefore he hath returned them only keeping the Letter which he read over and kissed more than a thousand times in my presence and he would willingly have returned an answer but that he doubted his Masters would return presently and surprâ—ze him wherefore he in short told mâ— that he would suddenly come to Rome where by word of mouth he would give you full satisfâ—ction beseeching you in the mean time to continue your good opinion of him The Empress was highly contented with the slaves discourse however she
Erastus was no sooner published in Rome but in a moment there was seen a very great alteration For instead of their preperations of joy for the entry of their young Prince every one now hang down their heads so that there was nothing but sadness and melancholly throught all Rome In the first place the poor Emperour cryed and sighed and with him all the Lords and Ladies at the misfortune of Prince Erastus In testimony whereof all persons as well men as women threw off their rich habits which they had put on to honor the entry of their Prince and instead of that every one put on mourning aparrell in the mean time the Officers of justice began to provide in execute the sentence of Erastus so that every where all went with cryeâ— and â—eare to see this cruell spectacle But the seven Philosophers who were met together in counsell to advise about Erastus concluded that Euprosigorius should first begin and order the matter so with the Emperour that execution of the sentence should be stoped for that day and that one day after another every one should do the like so that each of them causing the execution to be delayed for one day the fatall dayes of Erastus would in that time be passed over and thereupon the good Philosopher disposed himself to go finde the Emperour CHAP. VIII Euprosigorus the Philosopher puts a stop to the execution of the sentence of Erastus for one day by the example of a Roman Gentleman who had killed his beloved Dog who had rescued his only Son from a Serpent that would have devoured him giving too much creditto the speeches of his wife who had told him that his son was dead THe Philosopher Euprosigorus being arived at the Pallace saw that the Emperour was walking alone in the hall no person darcing to speak one word to him yet nevertheless he entred with much freedom and great confidence But he was no sooner in the presence when many flocked together after him to know if he came upon the account of Erastus and what would be the issue of it before the Philosopher had the conveniency of making his reverence to the Emperour he looked on him with an angry and troubled countenance and with a high tone demanded of him from whence proceeded that rashness and presumption to dare to appeare before him and more especially at a time so improper and if that were the doctrine and instruction which he and his Companions had taught his Son to scorne to speak nor answer to his father and to solicite his Mother-in-Law to so dishonest an account Nay and to attempt to force her But continued he I promise you by the word of a Prince that I will provide so sharp and so examplary a Chastisement as well for you as for that Rascall my Son that shall leave a perpetual memory and shall serve as an example to posterity to cause them to take heed of Committing such felonies toward their Lords or Princes The Emperour having ended the good Philosopher with a cheerfull countenance and without the least appearance of trouble thus answered know Sir that it is very ill done of any person to Act any thing contrary to right justice and more especially for those who are in publique imployments and although your Majesty being endowed with great wisdom may think that you have not erred in your sentence against Prince Erastus yet nevertheless I can boldly say that it is impossible but there should be a fault in giving so sudden a sentence for every wise man ought dilligently and deliberately to weight the cause and to understand the fact very well before he proceeds to Judgment And those persons who are fit to be Judges ought principally to avoyd three things that is malice disdaine and anger as for the two first I shall say nothing at present being assured that neither malice nor disdain did not induce you to denounce this rash sentence but I may speak of anger for it was that which caused you to pronounce so severe a sentence and certainly the Poet said truly Anger by some termed Ire Springeth from the heart and fire Which if quenched not in Season By the water of sound reason Right nor wrong nor time nor place Can prevent its furious race All these disorders Sir have possession of your Spirit and have moved you to a certain impetious anger in this so important a cause and that meerly through the speech of a simple woman although your Majesty is not ignorant of the little reason which an angry woman is Mistress of who for the most part suffer themselves to be transported by their passion without inclining to any reason so that I am assured that no good can come of it and if you do not change your mind I doubt it will happen to you as it did to a Roman Gentleman who giving to much credit to his wives perswasions killed his only Dog which he had loved above all things of which action at last he too late very much repented What was this Gentleman said the Emperour and how was the matter I shall tell you Sir said the Philosopher provided that in the mean time your Majesty will be pleased to stay the execution of Prince Eâ—astus so that having heard me if your mind shall alter as I hope it will and the sentence not being executed you may be at liberty to pronounce one more favourable otherwise my desires will be in vain Therefore Sir if you please to stay the execution untill I have finished my discourse and then you may do even what you please not only with Prince Erastus but also with me and my Companions To this the Emperour agreâ—d although he did certainly believe that nothing that he could â—ay should cause him to change his Opinion yet in regard he had oftentimes took greaâ— pleasure in his learned discourse he was content to hear him anâ— commanded the execution of his Son to be dâ—lâ—yed for the present The Philosopher therefore taking up the discourse thus began Some time since there lived a Gentleman in Rome having but one Son who bring desirous to have him well bred up as his only dear Child caused him to be nursed in the house and laid in his Chamber the some Gentleman had a Dog which he had a very great esteem for as well for his handsomeness as good properties and he took much pleasure in him as it was possible for any Gentleman to take in such a creature It happened that there was a Tournament or running at Tilt held in the publique Place in Rome to which the Gentleman amongst others of his quality resorted And no sooner was he gone but his wife also being as unadvised as many other woman had a mind to go see the pleasures of this Tournement and thereupon she went with all her Chamber-maids and damsells and to their great misfortune the Nurse went to the Top of the house from whence although she could not see
up and destroyed What Pine was this said the Emperour and what happned about it to which the Empress answered A while agoe there was a Gentleman of Italy who had a very fair Garden wherein he took so much pleasure that he therein planted all sorts of Herbs and Trees and among others he had a very fair Pine so fair and so strait as any could be in the World so that this Gentle-man esteemed this Pine more than all the Trees in the Garden and thereupon he there made an arbour taking great pleasure to remain â—nder the shaddow of it for the most part of the day whether he had a mind to read or otherwise to pass the time It hapned as one often sees among other Trees that from the root of this Pine sprung a sucker which the Gentle-man seeing being very much pleased at it he commanded his Gardner to look carefully after it hoping by this means to get an other Pine as fair as the former and this young sucker finding the fresh Earth that was put about it grew very well at the beginning but being grown up so high that the branches of the first Pine kept the Sun from it it did not grow so well as at the first but became bent and crooked The Gentle-man being troubled at it asked the Gardner the cause who answered that the bowes of the great one gave so great a shaddow that the young one not having the Sun and air to make it grow strait up according to its Nature it therefore was crooked and did not thrive whereupon the Gentle-man commanded to lop the old one and take away the branches which hindered the Sun from the young one so the old one was lop'd all away on one side It hapned that this Gentle-man had a voyage to make for some moneths but before he went he recommended his young Pine to the Gardner above all things in this the Gardner did not fail so that the Sun coming to the young one it grew again as it had formerly done but however it still continued crooked on the contrary the great one began to wither on the side it had been lopped The Gentleman at his return seeing the great Pine half dead and knowing that these two Pines hindred one another and that there was little hopes of the great Pine in regard it was so decayed caused it to be cut up and thus was this Tree that had formerly been so well beloved destroyed for the young Pines sake which although it grew to be a great one yet it still kept itâ— ill and crooked shape which it had from the beginning and thus will it happen to you for having placed your Son if he may be called yours which I cannot believe to the government of these seven Philosophers you see in what case he is they have already lopt you on one side by the shame which they have caused you and which is worst being resolved to maintain and justifie it you will in short time see a rebellion in Rome and if you should pardon him for this out-rage in hopeâ— of his amendment assure your self that ere long he will a â—empt against your life as he hath already done against your honour to arrive to the Governmâ—nt so soon as he can and be assured that these Philosophers will put their helpinâ— hand to it in hopes that they shall have the management of the affairâ— of the Empire and so for want of forecast you will see your self ruined by your young sucker I shall prevent it replyed the Emperour for I promise you that justice shall take place and at once to revenge your honour and my own and thereupon he commanded that without delay the sentâ—nce of Erastus should be executed on his Person CHAP. X. The Philosâ—pher Dimurgus caused execution to be stayed for an another day by a discourse which he made to the Emperour of the great Hipocrates who out of anger did stay without cause a Nephew of his that was an execellent Physitian DAY brake was hardly come when those to whom the execution of Prince Erastus was committed dâ—d provide for all things necessary thereunto without loss of further time according to the precise command of the Emperour in the mean time the Philosopher Dimurgus who had undertook to defend the Prince for the second day lest he should be surprized had bethought himself of all that he had to say to the Emperour and so being ready in the morning he came to the Chamber where by Fortune he found him coming out sooner than ordinary by reason of the great trouble he was in both in body and mind for the causes aforescited and although the Emperour appeared to be angry yet he being satisfied in the innocence of Prince Erastus after he had made his usual reverence he took the boldness to say Sir having receâ—ved this favour of your Majesty to be long since admitted into the service of your house I ever knew you both of a rare spirit and very well advised whereby you have alwayes prudently governed the affairs of your Empire so that I have alwayes admired the great vertues which did respectively shine in you and a particular zeal which you alwayes had to do justice so that I never knew you guilty of one unjust action But considering you by I know not what extraordinary disaster to be about to exceed the bounds of reason and to be diverted from your good and antient custom I therefore made bold not out of hopes of reward or praise to come before you not to counsel you but to advertise your Majesty of a certain error into which as a man and not as so great an Emperour as you have alwayes been are now fallen you know Sir what you have purposed to do with my Lord the Prince your Son by reason of a wicked perswatition which has been imprinted in your mind But I humbly pray you and that for the reputation of your honour to suspend a while this your purpose and to take my counsel which being good as in truth you will know it you will prefer it before all that hath been said to the contrary and be not angry Sir at my advice for as the Proverb sayes and you very well know it He does deserve to be ruined that will not take advice The Emperour having heard this preamble and considered of what had been spoken by the Philosopher was contented to stay the execution of his Son however intimateing to him that if by good reason he did not make appear that he was in an error and that his defence of the Prince Erastus was just that both the Advocate and Criminal should be hang'd one after another to which the Philosopher consenting he began to say Hipocrates the Prince of Physitians had a Nephew with whom he took so great pains to instruct him in the Art of Physick that in fine this Nephew was in his Skil Experience and Practice equal to his Uncle it hapned that
Children he was â—â—ll â—â—r ken in years before he thought of marriage Iâ— so â—â—ll out one day that having good merry Company in his house after the table was uncovered from one discourse to another as it is usual for Gentlemen to talk after dinner they happened to fall upon this proposition of the natural affection that men have to have Children wherâ—by man â—enewâ— his blood and in a manner lives after his deaâ—h in his poâ—terity upon this discourse some of this Gentlemans friends pâ—rswaded him to marry whâ—râ—by he might have Children to inherit so many fair Caâ—â—leâ— and other riches which he was possessed of This Gentleman did not much regard it but seeing himself importuned sometimes by one and then again by others after he had sustained many assaults of his friends he in conclusion resolved to please them as he had always done His friends knowing his mind took much pains to find him out a wife fit for his quality and by whom he might have Children and they used such dilligence that in short time they betroathed him to a very fair young Damsell who was daughter to one of the greatest Lords of all Tuskany The wedding was solemnized as you may suppose suitable to the quality of their estates and al hough there was great difference in the ages of this Knight and his young Bride yet however he was so Gallant that his gallantry was enough to content a Damsell better than one that was younger so that for a while he and his wife lived very contentedly But after some time this Damsell having understood from other good wives how their husbands treated them in the night she began to wish for a young husband without regarding the gallantry of her own rather wishing for a good strong back than a gallantâ—y accompanied with a feeble breath and seeing that she could not have her desires and that notwithstanding all her endeavours her husband as he grew more in â—eâ—rs so he was less able to please her After she had fasted one year and knew that there was nothing in the house to satisfie her appetite she resolved to purchase her victuals in an other place but understanding that she was to make use of a third hand and that in an affair of so great importance there might be danger to discover it to a third person she propsed to make use of her own mother whom she thought had most reason to love her best therfore she went to her where being arrived after many other discourses she fell to the matter in hand that which most aâ—gred her letting her know as well as she could the necessity wherein she was and the purpose she had taken to provide otherwise for her self that she might not dye in that necessity praying and conjuring her for the natural love which she had always born to her that having pitty and compassion on her she would make provision against that evil which would be her death if she had no remedy and also to her honour governing her self after such manner in this affâ—ir that she might find her self re-restored and so as no person should know any thing The Poor mother thinking of what her daughter had said to her for a long time was amazed not bring able to beliâ—ve her own ears much less to believe what she had heard but in conclusion seeing by her daughters obstinacy how the matter was and that what she had said was true she first of all tried to direct her from her wicked purpose shewing her what offence she would commit puting her honor before her eyes alledging to her many other examples to this purpose but all was to no purpose for as to the offence the young woman answered that the Law could not give her a greater punishment then death and that continuing in the condition she was then in she knew her death was sudden As for the shame and infamy of the world said she I come to take your advice in that particular that my honour being saved you may provide me with what you know may be necessary upon this account and for examples she had enough that served for her purpose so that all that her mother couâ—â— say to change her mind from this wicked purpose was but to beat the aire whereupon the mother was so troubled that she thought she should be distracted The young woman seeing this began to colt's and flatter her saying Dear Mother have compassion of my youth You have been young and therefore know well enough what are the desires of the flesh which as I have always heard say and now I know by experience are greater and more vehement in women than in men and although the fire is not so great in men as in women yet however as often as they have a mind and they know where they give themselves the satisfaction they desire But if we miserable women are sruprized but once besides the shame we indure they make no matter of killing us So that for this cause we other women ought to put the change upon them to revenge our selves of the shame that men upon this account do to us To this the Mother made several replyes but all was in vain for so much the more that the Mother endeavoured to turn her from her purpose so much the more ardent and passionate she appeared to be Let what would happen to extinguâ—sh the fire which consumed her she did cleerly conâ—â—sâ— that it would be more for her honour to contain than to abandon her self but she could not imagin how she could live long so and that therefore the fault should not be imputed to her but â—o nature who did so constrain her further entreating her Mother to consider of some way to give her content and to save her honour protesting unto her that if she did refuse to assist her she would hazard her life and honour praying her once for all to put all other oppinions out of 〈◊〉 mind The poor Mother seeing her daughters obstinacy knew not what to say further seeing on the one side her daughter blinded with love and so resolved in her purpose that it was not pâ—ssible to alter her mind and on the other side she well knew the great wrong she should doe to her honour in satisfying the appetite of her daughter And although she well knew â—hat she lost time however she thus made further trial of her daughter saying Ah! how stronge a thing is it that I see you purpose to violate the bounds of marriage and count so great ill to your husband who as you know loves you as well or better then any man can love a woman and therefore I would not have you give such way to your appetite which I confess is great but not so but that you may overcome it if you will I have been young and as fair as you and have experienced love affairs and his fires but however I have resisted all with a constancy and firm
all dispatches and affairs to these seven Sages who acted all things as they were minded and gave the King what account they best thought for their purpose but above all thing they took care not to displease him so that in time they were in such high esteem and they were taken rather to be Lords of all England then Counsellours true it is that in the beginning they took so good order in the execution of justice that all things were done in good order but afterwards when they had tasted of the great gifts and presents that was usually made them they then were so desirous to heap up riches that they minded nothing else without respecting their honour or the zeal they should have to justice and among other inventions to raise mony they found out one than would raise them a world of riches at that time it was a custome in England for the Natives to give such credit to dreames that the believed the greatest part of their affairs and chiefly those of importance were divinely revealed to them in visions and dreams which they little or much understood according to to the goodness and sanctity of the persons who thus should dream so that when any one had dreamed of any thing that she could not understand they had recourse to the Sages whereof in England there was great plenty and for their advise carried great presents as if Gold and Silver would cause the true interpretation of dreams these seven Deputies or Governours of the Kingdome understanding of this that they might shew themselves the more knowing and more excellent in all things than any body else and more particularly in the interpretations of dreâ—ms under preâ—ence of takeiâ—g away the abuse which was done upon that account and that the people might not be decâ—ived in the interpretation of dreâ—ms tâ—ey published an Eâ—ict by which it was prohibited all persons to go to any to have interpretation of dreams but to them â—lves In persuance of which Eâ—â—ct a world of people came to them every dâ—y with great presents so that in short time these Lords were â—icheâ— in mony then the King himself who minding nothing but to take his pleasure fell into a vâ—â—y strange accident for having hiâ— Nâ—ts to be piâ—ched in a very pleasant Forrest to please the â—â—dies with a coâ—â—â— at hunting he was no sooner gone out of the gaâ—es of London to gâ— to this hunting but that his eye-sight was so troublâ—d that he could not see wherefore taking advâ—ce of his Physicians who looking on the Kâ—â—gs eyes found they were fair and without blemish and understanding that he had no pain in his head that he was not wounded that might occasion this blindness they knew not what to think of it but only advised the King to return to his Pallace and go rest himself and that in the mean time they would consult among themselves of this accident to remedy it as well as possibly they could according to this advise the King turned his bridle to return back but he was no sooner entered the City-gate but he recovered his sign without using any remedy whereupon being not only joyful but wondring with a merry heart he turned his bridle to go follow the company but he was no sooner out of the City but he was agen taken with his former blindness so that he was forced to turn back towards the Court and yet so soon as he was entred within the City-gates he recovered his former sight yet in regard the time was somewhat spent he put off the hunting untill aâ— other time The next day going to pass away some time at a garden that was without the City he was no sooner passed London Gates but he became blind as he had done the day before and no sooner was he returned in the City but he saw as cleerly as he had formerly done upon this account the Physitians were amazed they had many consultations but without any effect for in general it was thus the Kings sight was good so long as he was within the Citâ— but so soon as he was out of it he became blind and alâ—hough he went out at several Gates and had tryed them all yet he still continued blind so long as he was out of the City and when he returned he could see well enough In this condition this poor Prince remained for sometime and câ—â—â—d not finde any remedâ— which was a great â—ffliction to him to see himself confin'd to the City of London whereupon one day he called the seven Counsellors to whom he had committed the Government of the Kingdome remembring that they had given out that they could give a reason for all things and therefore he expresly enjoyned them that they should make known to him the cause of his blindness that he might finde a remedy without being thus confined within the walls of the City of London but these great Sages who knew as little of the causes as the King were so amazed that they could not speak answer a word to purpose yet however dissembling their ignorance they told the King that the case required to take some time of advice to consult well on the matter and to studdy on it that they might give him such an answer as might be to his content to this the King replyed I give you all this day to advise upon it and charge you that tomorrow morning you give me an answer but the Sages finding this time to be too precise and too short told him that the case was of thâ—t importance that it required a moneth of delay how a moneth said the King is this the great readiness which you boast to have by your â—kil presently to resolve all doubts and questionâ—â—gâ— and consult together and in fifâ—een dayes resolve me of what I desire and finde a remedy or I promise you I will make an example of you to all such as for the future shall he so bold as to abuse their Princes These poor unadvised Sages hearing this were much troubled yet since they had a terme of fifteen dayes they pluckt up their spirits hoping in that time to supply their ignorance by the knowledg of some other so that they assured the King that within the time prefixed they would give him the satisfaction he desired and having took leave of the King they each of them severâ—ly sent away messengers in Post to all parts to finde out some knowing person to whom they might apply themselves in this affair and their Messengers had good success they heaâ—d of the vertue and miraculous spirit of the child Merlin and of the sayings he used which surpassed all humain understanding This child was but young and was born miraculously so that it was believed that his Mother had conceived being a Virgin being with child by a Spirit or a Magician who it was reported had given her a great belly without touching her by means of a familiar Spirit but let it be so
unjustices in the world thinking of nothing but how to Tyranize â—v r the poor people and heap to themselves great treasure by the destruction of your Subj cts whâ—se complaint and cry having reached up unto heaven God by his just Juâ—gment hath sent you this blindness which you have when you are out of the City of London that as you have voluntarily deprived your self of the eyes of your understanding so that you will not see nor take notice of any thing but your particular pleasure instead of having your eyes employed for the good and quiet of your people you should be also deprived of your Corporal sight so that you may not see any thing out of your City of London Thus have I told you the Cause of your evil so that now without saying any more it is easie for you to remedy it but that you may be without any excuse I will prescribe to you the course you are to take know then that God would have you Chastise your self for your fore-passed negligence and by the same meanes that those who have exercised so much Tyrany over your people be punished for their crimes are beyond all comparison greater then yours True it is that you have very much failed but it was through Ignorance having put into the hands of others the adminstration and charge which God had comitted to your self indeed you might think them to be wise men and fit for such a government but they have maliciously â—ffâ—nded for they very well knew that their actions wherein they Tyranizâ—d over this Kingdom were contrary to God and nevertheless their insatiablness and avarice have continued therefore you ought to amend your self and that they suffer death and I assure you if you act this justice upon them your evil will leave you and if you will not I advertise you that the Judgments of God will increase upon you so as to darken your heart and I â—ell you there is no wâ—y to extinguish these seven fire balls but by the heads of these seven and that you may haâ—â— a proof of what I say make a tryal of the greatest for aâ— you have seen the more you endeavour to extinguish it with water or other liquor so much the more violently 〈◊〉 burneth as you have already made tryal caâ—se the head of the principal that is the oldest and most inveterate of these Sâ—gâ—s to be cut off and you will presently see that this great fire ball will be extinguished The King having very attentivly heard the discourse of Merlin some times blushed and then agen became pale and â—e found himself touched to the life and yet however acknowledged his fault for having continued so long without taking care of the affairâ— of his Kingdom he began to sigh and groan entreating the good Merlin that he would pray to God for him that his Majesty would forgive him his faults you need not doubt of that answered Merlin for in performing what I have told you your offences shall be pardoned without the intercession of any and on the contrâ—ry if you do not perform it a greater vengeance of God is prepared for you since now you câ—nnot pretend the cause of Ignorance The King did think it very strange to put those to death whom he had raised to such greatness and of whom he had severall times had experience on many occasions to be very wise but considering and viewing with his eyes the matter of the Cauldron and having a remorse of conscience for the great fault which he had commited which put him in fear of a more sharp vâ—ngance according to the threatenings of Merlin he therefore resolved to make a trial of the principall of the seven Philosophers and thereupon causing him to be called pretending to conferr with him about what Merlin had told him he ordered his head to be presently and privatly cut off which being done the great fire ball in the middle that did cast out more fire than the rest was of it self extinguished This being seen by the King without any more delay he did the same by the rest causing them to come one by one and as one head was cut â—ff so one fire ball went out so that the last was no sooner beheaded but all the fire was extinguished there was no appearance neither of balls nor Cauldron which was not materâ—call as Merlin said but it was of fire although it seemed to be of mettle as other Cauldrons are and the earth where it had been before was as cool and fresh as in other places This being done Merlin ordered the Kings Chamber to be put to rights and caused the bed to be placed where it had formerly been and because it was then late he told the King that he should rest contented and take his ease for that night and that the next day they would go out of the City of London where he should perceive his deliverance and healing which should be then seen and known of all the world The next morning the King arose early as joyfull as might be and sent to all the Prâ—nces and Barrons and Gentlemen of his Court that they should be ready to accompany him for he would that morning go pass the time out of the City of London Every one merâ—aâ—led at â—he news because the Kâ—ng had so long continued without going out of â—he City for the trouble to find himself blind being out of the City for the matter of the Caâ—ldron was not yet divulged or known and although it had been it would have been accoâ—nted as a fable and especially by thoâ—e who believe no more than what they see The King then being mo need on the fairest horse â—n hiâ— stable did set râ—wards having Merlin by his side whâ— was in homely habâ—â— for notwithstanding all his knowledge he would have no other Clothes but went in poor â—ayment according to the Condition of his birth not regarding Clothes nor riches The King did all the way discourse with Merlin which his Princes wondered at to see him thus taken up with a poor lad without speaking one word to all the Nobility that follâ—wed him and being come to the City Gate Mâ—rlin going before said to the King Sir as I have served you as a Phisitian so I will shew you che way to rejoyce and the great occasion you have for it in having recâ—vered your sight to the great content of your people And yet if you will speak the truth although you had some hopes of your cure yet you were not so certain as now at this time you make experience of it And going forwards out of the Gâ—te he tuâ—ned about to the King who was also issued 〈◊〉 and looked about towards all parts believing himself entred into a new life to see himself restored to that which he had so long lost withoâ—t knowing how and which he had so often endeavoured to recâ—ver but in vain Whereupon Merlin said to him Sir do you
flee but the Officers came timely enough to seize on her and secure her and her wicked Chamber-maid she seeing her self taken and bound and knowing in whose custody she was freely confessed the fact saying she very well knew the cause why she was taken and particularly related how she had used her deceased Husband that she might be rid of him and how she had kill'd him with her own hands whereupon she was led to the Governour where she reiterated and confirmed her disposition further adding that she repented she had endured so much and that she had delayed his death so long and that if it were to do again she would do it The Governour hearing this being much troubled to see so fair a young woman so obstinate in her wickedness which she did not endeavour to excuse but rather to justifie he therefore condemned her to be burnt alive at the common place of Execution in Modena and that her Chambermaid who had not only kept her counsel but bin her assistant and companion should also suffer with and accompany her in death and this sentence was the next day executed this wretched woman not shewing the least repentance for so wicked a crime And this may be the very case of the Queen of Germany for I am very confident that no cause hath induced her thus miserably to calumniate the King her Husband but only an earnest desire to have him dispatched out of her sight True it is this woman is more cunning endeavours to have more assurance then she of Modena for she would be assured of the protection and safeguard of the Empire that she may with more safety execute her wicked design wherefore my opinion is that she ought not to be protected in so wicked an action but that in short an answer should be returned her that the Roman Empire is puissant enough not only to defend it self from those who shall dare to assault it but also for to punish those that shal attempt any unjust action whereby this perverse Princess may know that we well enough understand the reason of her writing this Letter and that therefore she should forbear acting of those things that deserve punishment lest she serve as an example to others who shall attempt the like And it is my earnest wish that there were none like her at Rome and then I should not have occasion to continue my discourse and then Sir you and wâ— that are your servants should not be put to the trouble we this day are at on the â—ccasion of Prince Erastus for certainly if the câ—use were searched to the bottom it would be found to be quite different than his mother in 〈◊〉 hâ—th iâ—sly imputed it to cause him to do so that she may with the more ease contrive the same against you and bâ— out of fear and danger of yâ—ur Sâ—ns heâ— g revâ—â—â—â—d on her this Sir or some such curse is the only râ—â—son whâ—ch at present is to me unknown but I can affiâ—â— as you will in conclusion sâ—â—d that Erastus â—â—â—nocâ—nt not only of this fact but of â—ll other vâ—i â—â—â—actions if the hasty execution of a rash sentence givâ—n against him dâ—â—h not hinder the knowledg of the truth to prâ—cure which I shall follow the Nature of the Gentleman of Modena's Dâ—g and the example of my Companionâ— who have noâ— ceased not do not yet cease to crye that order may be observed and if you are not pleased to open your ears to the advertisements which we give you have a care that our clamours be thought hereafter to be to as little purpose as the Howlings of the good dog were to his Master to discover the truth of the fact when there was no remedy Open your eyes and your eares Sir while it is yet time without precipitating on an action that may cause a too late vain repentance if you believe that Erastus is guilty of the crime wherewith he is accused we are of a contrary opinion yet none of us are upon certainties therefore if you put him to death you will be accounted throughout all the world to be a wicked unjust cruel Prince wherefore let me prevaile with you to do that which you have so often intended to remit the cause to the trial of the Senate to proceed according to right reason justice if it proves to be so as the Empress hath falsly alledged that Erastus be â—o dâ—â—â—â—ed thâ—n you may execute him and us also who 〈◊〉 been his â—â—â—tors without incurring any infamy And on the contrary if his Innocence doth appear as I believe it will you will not be deprived of a Son and the Empire of a Successor The Oration of good â— Igathus was pronounced with such earnestness thâ—â— all the Senate stood up entreating the Emperor to 〈◊〉 the advice of the Philosopher and 〈…〉 counsel could be given in a case so difficult 〈…〉 also by reason of the learned speeches which the Philosopher Agathus had made the Emperor was constrained to put a stop to the execution of the sentence of Erastus for that day but he was troubled to hear the Empress so openly blamed before the Senate And as for the Queen of Germany it was concluded to give her such an answer as the Philosopher had directed who gained very great honour in this Counsel for that he had discovered the intention of this Queen of Germany wch could be no other but what he had describ'd in regard there was no other advise if any rebellion in Germany whereupon the Counsel arose and every one retired to their houses expecting to hear the cause of Prince Erastus which had been left to the tryal of the Senate and it was the wishes and desires of all that the cause should prove as the Philosophers had averred and not according to the accusation and imputation of the Empress whose Tyranny was hated by many on the contrary every one admired the good carriage which they had only once seen in Prince Erastus who was esteemed and loved by all the world This History or example of the Philosopher Agathus is according to the original in the Italian and French but there being an other story to this purpose I shall thus relate it Our Gentleman understanding the resolution of the Mistress was as I told you married to the Maid by which action he thought to vex the Lady which slighted him and marry her who loved him and that he might make the Lady and all the World believe they were mistaken in him and that his Estate was as good as ever he lanched out all that he could to make a sumptuous wedding so that by such time as hâ—s and his Brides cloathes were paid for and the other expences defrayed not only his own Estate was consumed but all his new wives ready money which she had pickt up in her service was spent and besides one Citty house and some moveables all else was sold and the
to do the deed of Nature In the mean time it growing towards morning a Knight who was Journeying to the Emperour Court chanched to ride that way and seeing a fire the weather being cold raw he drew near to it to warm himself and in this posture did our Over-seer of the watch finde him when he returned whereupon he asked what he was a Knight replyed the Traveller you are a Devil and no Knight said the Over-seer for I first carried you into the River and threw you in but you returned I then again threw you in sack and all with a stone but you still returned and then I finding that the water had no power over you tryed what the fire could do and intended here to burn you but I think to no purpose for I see you are come out again yet I will once again try what I can do and thereupon he seized on the travelling Knight and threw him horse and all into the fire and their stayed tell they were burned By this time it was day and he having done his work throughly as he beleived returned to his Sisters house telling her what he had done and how that at last he threw him and horse too into the fire she seemed to admire at it and was very well contented with the story and having treated her Brother with good drink and victual and many thanks she permitted him 〈…〉 Thus did the 〈◊〉 woman perform this enterprize coming off with flying colours and the baggage of the field â—hree considerable baggs of money which was very welcome to her and her husband to price up their broken fortunes and thus did she often times gâ—t many of her several woers till at last she came off with loss and thus it was Among her many lusty woers she had one a little dapper fellow for her servantt by profession a Lawyer he having a moneths mind to be dabling with her made his addresses to that purpose he was rich and prodigal she covetuous and a niggard of her favours which must be purchased at a dear rate he had tryed the vertue of his tongue but it had no vertue at her bar without that which caused it to speak at the Judges ready mâ—nâ— was used to oyle his tongue and that must be produced before she would give the comfortable word you shall have your desire but in the end he agreeing to give her what she desired she consented but she intended it not for of all men she liked not this Handy-prat Lawyer and therefore intended to serve him as she had done the three Knights She acquainted her Husband with her design who was willing enough to assist and take part in the pain because he was to take part in the gain It was a tall sum she agreed upon 300 crowns which she pretended she would only borrow for some time but designed never to pay the time being come the poor Lawyer came to the place her own house and delivered the money but so soon as he attempted to take his pleasure with her he had it with a vengeance with a lusty blow laid on between his neck and shoulders with a large cudgel that set him a sprawling as it used to do Conies there needed not many blows nor no sword to dispatch him that one with the staff was sufficient so that he soon kickt up his heele and went to plead causes in the other world They being certain of his death consulted what to do with his body which not being wounded they resolved on this case the murdering Husband took him on his back and carried him to the back side of the Lawyers own house which was not far distant and there being a house of office in the yard he set him down on the fear as if he had been there easeing his body and thus having placed him he there left him and went home The Lawyer had a companion and bed-fellow who was acquainted with his love story and knew of that nights appointment and therefore did sit up for him he having occasion to visit the house of Office opening the door saw one sitting there although he could not imagine who it should be yet out of modesty he retired for some time but attending somewhat longer than ordinary and seeing the Party did not come out he again opened the door and making a neerer approach perceived that it was his friend the Lawyer he wondred at his being there supposing he was in an another place wherefore he called him by his Name but received no answer he then believing him to be aslâ—ep and resolving to awake him pulled him by the Câ—â—t fiâ—st sâ—ftly and then so rudely that he fell on the flo r he seeing that upon a little further search found that he was dead Our Lawyers Chamberfellow being ready witted was not long in considering the matter but gâ—â—ssed how all had hapned and therefor resolved to carry the dead body back to the place from whence he was brought and thereupon taking him up in his arms he went to the house where he had been murthered and setting him upright against the door he there left him and returned to his lodg ng Our Murdress had some occasiâ—â— abâ—ut midnight to go to the door opening it dâ—wn â—ll 〈◊〉 b dy into the house to her great amazement and â—â—â—ble but when she brougâ—â— a Candle and saw that it was the body of the dear Lawyer she was exâ—reamly terrified calling out to â—er Husband and acquainâ—â—â—g him with the business he was 〈◊〉 â—â—en troubled as she had bin but knowing the◠〈◊〉 a â—â—â—â—ssi y of doing somwhat he resolved to câ—rry the bâ—dy and throw iâ— into to the River he was to pass through divers streets but in the midst of his Journy he heard a noise of People walking and talking he having a guilty conscience and fearing all things stood up at a convenient corner to hear and see what these People were it was not long ere they came so near him that he could discover by their words and actions that they were night walkers shop-lifts or house-breakers and that they having met with some prâ—ze or booty which they had in a sack were resolved to leave it on a stall and retire to a Tavern to make merry Our Murderer understanding this perceaving that they were gone came from the place where he had stood up and examining the Sack found there was in it two flitches of Bacon he was not long in resolving what to do but taking the Bacon out of the Sack put the dead man into it and placing it on the stall went home laden with the Bacon His wife expected his return but seeing him laden was â—ffâ—ighted thinking he had brougâ—â— back the body but he getting in a doors undeceived her shevving her the Bacon and acquainâ—â—ng her how all had hapned she understanding that they were enriched by an other Prizâ— went to bed being very well pleased with her evenings work The night
the perswasions of a woman contrary to the directions of him and the other Phisitians he took his knife in one hand and the peice of the Onion in the other saying with sighs and tears Ah poor and unfortunate Father you now see the great evil which you have caused this day it is just twelve moneths that by my own fault I lost my only Son and that I might know my misfortune the Heavens have this day made me see it who will not blame my sottishness knowing that I have caused the death of my only Son by following the directions of a foolish and distracted woman Now I know it but too late that Nature shewed her self as bountiful in preserving my Son as she was liberal in bestowing him upon me behold the sign behold the Christal dissolved by vertue of the white Onion which my poor Child so often desired to have but in vain whereat Nature being angry hath made me understand and know to take such vengeance of me as I deserve and to serve for a perpetual example to all men not to give credit to this sotteriâ—s malignities of their wives my Son being dead who otherwise by the course of Nature might have lived long shall I live I who have caused his death It shall not be so I cannot endure my self such a mischief shall not go unpunished and on a sudâ—in when he had spoken thus he thrust the kniâ—e which he held into his wives bâ—eaâ— aâ—d â—hen did as much to himself and that with such quickness that those who were present and who melted in tears thus to hear the poor Father complain did not mind him and much less had the means to hinder what he did This was the end of poor Polectetus who to his great prejudâ—ce found the danger of being governed by the counsel of a woman for if the counsel of a woman be bad when shâ— thinks to do well as it was with the poor Flaminia what is it then when she is moved with rage and fury The means which the Empress uses upâ—n this account I shâ—ll let pass because Sir your Majâ—sty is best acquainted therewith but I dare say and affirm that if you suffer your self to be over ruled by her and cause your Son to dye without well considering of the matter I doubt nor but it will happen to you as it did to Polictetus and it may be worse and yet I do not conclude that Prince Erastus ought not to suffer death if what he is accused of be found to be true and that the Philosophers escape death who instead of instructing him in vertuous courses and good learning have rendred him so unnatural and given to sensuallity Yet however I once again urge that in this point you do not depend upon the sole words of a woman nor to those who on this occasion are transported with passion as you your self are for the wrong you think you have received which if it should be true there should be no torment nor pain how great soever which should not be thought liâ—â—lâ— in comparison to such an excess But all those who know and are acquainted with the vertues and greâ—t continence of young Prince Erastus are of another mind And therefore not only to content your mind as belongs to so great a Prince as you are I pray Exhort and Counsel you to leave this affair to the Senate And in case Prince Erastus be found guilty of the fact that he dye miserably by the hand of justice and with him the seven Philosophers who have instructed him so wickedly and on the contrary if he be found Innocent that his Innocence he not oppressed And do not think Sir that I say this to prolong this cause and by this means escape death for I onely desire three days time for the Philosophers in which time if they do not cleerly make appear the Innocence of your Son and if he himself do not Justifie himself wi hin that time that he be put to death and with him the seven Philosophers beginning with me Lencus who have writ this present Letter not having at the beginning put the name of him who sent it lest considering the great hatred you bear to us you should refuse to read it seeing it directed by one of us therefore wonder not Sir at what I send you word that your son shall Justifie himself for the cause of his not speaking hitherto comes not by any natural default which he hath neither is it occasion'd by the accident for wch we are deteyned but it is caused by a certain great Mistery secret which you shall understand from him within two days if you have the patience to let him live so long Praying the Gods that your life be long and happy This is the Story or example which Lencus the Philosopher did write and send in a Letter to the Emperour and as I find it in the Originals Italian and French but others say it was an other Story which I thus relate to you A woman having buried her husband is resolved to dye in his Vault and will therefore stay with his body A Soldier who is appointed to Watch a Rogues body that was hanged on a Gibbet comes to the Vault to the woman perswades her to drink and eat and enjoyes her in the mean time the Rogues body is stolen from the Gibbet The Souldier is distracted being to dye for his neglect he therefore attempts to kill himself but the woman hinders him helps to hang her husbands body where the Rogues was A Gentleman of Rome who was blessed with a large estate had for his sole heir or Daughter of an incomparable beauty and Ingenious Soul and having been carefull to give her vertuous education she by that Addition had so honourable a fame that all the young men of quality in those parts became her Suitors but it being impossible for her to be the lawful prize for them all she at length was so importunatly courted by one that she was espoused to him He who was thus happy in her love enjoment was a Gentleman in whom nothing was wanting that could be reqâ—ired to make him accomplisht and amiable especially in her eye who loved him with equal ardours and thought of no felicity but in his mutual affections and Society so that all men his envous Rivals only excepted expected from so fare an Union would proceed all mortal happiness in perfection But observe the unconstancy of humane felicity these two Lovers had not long enjoyed each other when fate seldome long favourable to Lovers steps in and divides them by the Eternal divorce of death translating the husband into an other life and leaving the Widdow almost liveless for so had her grief made her and nothing kept her from using violence on her self that she might enjoy him in the Elizium shader but the desire of seeing him laid into his Tomb with such Funerall Pomp and solemne obsequies as were
to our selves without doing any good or availing any thing to the benefit of the dead as to recalling them to life agen and hazarding and endangering our own contrary to the laws of Nature whereby every one is obleidged to endeavour their preservation as much as in them lyes and if she had designed any thing against her own life as he doubted she had she ought instantly to retract it for as murder was the greatest crime humain nature could be guilty of so much the more criminal were they that should be murderers of themselves and that it was so detestable a crime that it was dangerous to presume that heaven would be so merciful as to satisfie it and that it was most certain the Ghost of her Husband could receive no satisfaction thereby but be rather displeased since if he loved her when living he could not allow of any violence she should offer to her self but rather abâ—or the society of so great a Criminal The woman hearing that her visitant had done replyed that indeed his discourses Were true but she had such a subject of sorrow as was not 〈◊〉 be parralled her loss had been so great thâ—â—â—lthough her grief were so too yet she rather deservâ—d pitty and excuse than to be reprehended or condemned and this short speech was accompanyed nâ—t only with a deludge of tears but another fit of fainting the man of War and Phisick for at this time he had acted the the Phisitian seeing his Patient so far frâ—m being cured that he feared a relapse had immediate recourse to his only Medicine the Antidote of the bottle and holding up her head with one hâ—nd with thâ— other he drencheth her with a consideâ— a â—e dose oâ— the remaining licquor which was â—o sooner in her stomach but she finding the warmth and vigour of it was at it were reannimated the fountains of her tears stopped her forehead smoothed and her face reducâ—d to her Native sweetness and this last draught did not only effect thus strangely on her body but her minde also seemed to be perfectly restored to its antient mildness and tranquillity for as if a new soul had been infused into her she became the most affable complaisant and cheerful Creature in the world and indeed there was not only a change of humor but also a perfect metamorphosis of her Person that she seems not to be the same woman for instead of a sorrowful widdow which she lately was she now appears to be a most pleased and contented Bride Her forehead seems to be smoothed d lated to a graceful largeness and spread with a sanguine dye Her eyes though little more than half open yet sparkling with lustre and their amiable whites turned upward and yet by stealth casting glances on her Visitant such as dying persons and lovers in the extasie of delight are observed to usâ— Her lips wâ—re swelled with a delicious vermillion â—â—ncture her cheeks overflowed with pleasing blushes her head a little dâ—clining as when modesty and desiâ—e have a secret conflâ—ct and she is wholly possâ—ssed with an impatient though gentle dispute and her spirits being highly agitated within so there was an effusion of them upon the outward parts a temperate and balmy sweat extilling from the Pores of her snow white skin so that there was reaâ—on to suspect that this Matron although still in the Chaâ—nel house and sitting upon the coffin of her dearest all whom she so lately lamented with so much violencâ— she I say we may suspect to be in Love and that she now burns as extreamly in the flames of amorous desires of the Soldâ—er as she was lately frozen in the Ice of sorrow for her husband her looks and gestures betray her and all the ayres of high content and pleasure appear in her face and that she may taste of those joyes â—he so much desires she throws her self into the Soldiers arms she embâ—acâ—th him she k sses him wiâ—h that violence as if she were unsatiâ—fied with thâ— bare touches of his lipâ— aâ—d l nged to leave the impression of hers upon them when she had feasted her lips with touching 〈◊〉 feasted her eyes with beholding their belâ—ved objâ—ct in a word there is nothing of liberty dalliance caresses indearments which this sportful woman dâ—th not use to make herself grateful and charming to her new Gallant and to kindle fresh desires in him so that we may conclude one of the Daughters of the beautiful Venus is now sporting with one of her beloved Mars's his Sones and that in the height of Solace neither was the Soldier wanting for being sensible of the Magick of her wanton enticements he is soon armed for an encounter which being to be done in the dark let us seasonably avert our eyes and leave these Votaries quietly to finish their Cytherian Rites they are going about especially since their Zeale is so Fervent as not to scruple the Nicietie of making the dead Hâ—sbands Coffin the Altar whereon to kindle and exhale the Incense they have brought Thus you see here was a great and suddain change in our Matron who is no longer Mourner or Widdow I shall not trouble you with a large discourse of what should be the cause of this suddain and prodigious Metamorphosis some attribute it to the Mutability and Levity of womens nature in general considering the softness and tenderness of their constitution is such as renders them like wax capable of any impressions but we have daily examples of the constancy in affection of some women who will loose their lives in defense of their honor so that I will not attribute this Mutability and Levity of women to be general to all women nor that this was the only cause of our Matrons Metamorphosis for some impute it to the force of the wine the Soldier gave her but I suppose this can at the most be reckoned to be but an Accessary and not the principal Agent for the quantity she drank though it was sufficient to renew her spirits cherish her vitals warmeth and quicken the motion of her blood yet was it too little to intoxicate her brain and enflame her to the heighth of desires so inconsistent and contrary to the fridgid temper and low condition it found her in and as to the quallity though good wine be the milk of Venus yet doth it sâ—ld me work effectâ—ally that way but where it meets with boyes prâ—disposed to admit and concurre with its sprightly and heightning influence wherefore it cannot consist with reason to aggravate the facility of this woman and transferre it wholly upon the innocent means of her refreshment and recovery so that the Mutability and Levity of women in general and the effâ—cts of wine not being the cause I know not what else to attribute it unto or charge it upon aâ— Love in general which we know is the Author of many wonderful Advetnures and is a kinde of Magick against which Nature hath given us no power of
Castle The Senate being assembled he declared that as he could do no less than punish by the way of justice the detestable fellony which his own Son had câ—mmitted against him and the treason of those who having the charge to instruct him as well in good manners as in learning instead of rendâ—ing him eloquent and of good speech they had brought him dumb and distracted and instead of instructâ—ng him in good manners they had instructed him in the wickedness that was in question and yet these Philosophers had presumed to justifie him in an act so wicked and so apparent however he would not proceed of himself but had caused this counsel to be assembled to make them acquainted with the sentence which he had given on this occasion so that he did believe there was no reason to revoke it nor no occasion for further proof the matter of fact being so cleer and manifest unto all yet nevertheless to let all the world know that he would not nor did not intend to stop the mouths of any Criminals from justifying themselves alâ—hough in this case he could not see any way of justification he was content to wash his hands of this business to remit the whole cause to the consideration of the Senate with this proviso nevertheless that Erastus and the Philosophers should only have two dayes time to say and alledge before the Senate all that they could think off or speak for their justification and defence and that if in the same two dayes it did not appear to the Senate by evident proofs and manifest arguments that Erastus was innocent of that whereof he was accused to have acted against his honour that then without delay He and his Masters should be all publickly executed by the hand of justice the morning of the third day following and having finished his discourse he commanded that his Son the Philosophers should be brought before the Senate fettered and with a strong guard Prince Erastus hearing the door of his Dungeon opened supposed they came to fetch him to execution but when he perceived that they led him before the Senate he took heart and more especially when he saw his Masters there in whose wisdome he had so much assurance that he hoped to escape that day which being â—â—ce pass d he feared nothing Now it â—as that he was in most care and fear to to keep silence aswel in consideration of the many questions that were asked him as also in regard of the opâ—nion that had possâ—ssed many of the Senators that he wâ—s guâ—lty of the fact wherewith he was charged not using any manner of justification in a matter that concerned his life and therefore the most part of the Senators seeing him thus dumbe held him guilty of the fact but on the other side the Philosophers did so readily defend the cause of Erastus and their own and alledged so many examples to the Senate that they were divided in their Opinions and all that day was spent without taking any resolution to the great satisfaction and content of Prince Erastus and by order of the Senate the Prisoners were sent back to Prison and kept assunder with express intimation that if on the next day they made not better proof of their innocence than hitherto they had done they should proceed against them in real execution of that sentence which the Emperour had pronounced against them CHAP. XXI The Empress Aphrodicia found means to induce the Emperour to command that execution should be done immediately upon Erastus and the seven Philosophers by a discourse which she made of one Philemon that being adopted by a french Gentleman named Archelaus contrived how to kill his Mother in law conceiveing a hatred against her And being desirous to be Lord and Master of all by the assistance of seven of his Complices he caused his father in law to be secretly murthered The Empress hearing this nâ—wes was so troubled that if her Damsels had not taken greâ—t care of her she had fallen down in a swound but thâ—y seeing her faint away laid her on the bed wâ—ere having remain'd some time in a trance and being again come to her self she retired into her Cabinet where after after she had groaned and cryed she tore her cloathes and beating her self cursed her foolish mad love which had induced her to enterprize so rash an action and in conclusion seeing that tears and and complaints availed little in her designs and considering that if the Philosophers and Prince Erastus had so long time of respite the truth of the matter might come to light she therefore purposed upon new matter to take new counsel wherefore recollâ—cting her spirits the best that she could she sent for her Father and Mother and all her Relations who were many and all gâ—â—at Lords she bring descended from the most illustrious and principal Family in Rome they being all come tâ— her did every one perswade her to condiscend to the Emperours pleasure and attend till the terme of two dayes ordered for the Prisoners to justify themselves should be expired telling her that they could no more cleer themselves the sâ—cond time than they had done the first and that the more â—he cause was examinâ—d so much more would ner vertue and continâ—nce be manifested and that would fuâ— her 〈◊〉 â—he world against the wicked Erastus and agâ—inst thoâ—e who had undertaken to defend his wickedness But the Empress would not hearken tâ— this counsel but answered her Relations in gen râ—l that if they had any respâ—ct for her honor they would not thus slâ—ght her and thereupâ—n she sent to the Emperour to desire him to come to her chamber for she had matter of great importance to relate tâ— him in â—he pâ—â—sence of her Father and Mother and â—â—hers her Relations The Emperoor understâ—nding hereof went to the chamber of the Empâ—es whâ— immâ—diately â—egan to complain of the litâ— esteâ—m the Emperour had for her in that she had suffered the greatest outrage in the world from Erastus which he himself and others had seen having been publickly surprizâ—d in his flight and having promised to inflict such puâ—ishment as the enormity of the case required instead thereof he had admitted of justifications and against all reason had called her honor and fidelity in question remitted the matter to the judgement of the Senate where without publick blaming and calumniating of her it would be impâ—ssible to defend the care of Prince Erastuâ— yet for her own part she did not much care beinâ— assâ—red in her conscience that nothing could be proved against her But she was most concerned in the honor of the family from whence she was descended that injury would be done thereto in having a bad opinion of a woman descended there-from and that any dishonest actions should be mentioned of her as there needs must be in that case her honor being remitted to an ordinary Process as the Emperour had determined and being resolved
he arose and soon after him the Empress to whom a minute of an hour seemed to be a year so desirous she was to be satisfied in the death of the innocent Erastus and the seven Philosophers who took part with him to maintain the just quarrel of their Disciple and she was no sooner up but she sent in great haste for those who had Commission to execute the sentence of the Emperor against Erastus and the Philosophers CHAP. XXIII Prince Erastus declares in full Senate the necessity which had constrained him to be silent untill then and by an example of Hermogenes afterwards named Entichus whose Father had caused him to be cast into the Sea that he might not see him to be greater than himself Yeâ— however the same Entichus at length obtained the Crown of the Kingdom of Candia although he was but the Son of an ordinary Merchant according to the fatal destinies who had foretold that he should Arive at this dignity shewing that there is no prudence nor humane counsell that can hinder that which once hath been determined in Heaven and by the Caelestiall Influence And having declared the truth of the fact as it had passed between him and the Empress he and the Philosophers are acquitted and the Empress is cast into Prison The Jaylor having heard the Message of Prince Erastus went with all dilligence to the Emperours Lodgings yet he doubted that he should be derided for delivering a Message from one that was Damb but however he delivered what he had in charge to the Emperour who understanding this new Embassy remained very much perplexed and astonished by means of what had newly happened And although he believed that his Son had given that in charge to the Jaylor which he had delivered yet he thought it very strange that he now speaking he should all that time keep silent even in those great dangers wherein he had been and was still envolved So that he sometimes resolved not to make any reckoning of him considering the small esteem Erastus had for him not vouchsafeing to speak and justifie himself when he had been charged with so great a crime for which cause he believed he had just occasion to be angry with his Son who had so little respected him as not to pay him one civil salutation as in duty he was bound to and for that he had not answered one single question there having been so many propounded to him whe efore he had concluded that this his silence was sufficient proof of his guiltiness in so abominable a case as he had been charged withall And then again natural affection and instinct which induces Tygers to bear affection to their young ones although they disdaine hate all others induced and inclined the Emperour to give him audience And thereupon he gave command to the Jaylor that Erastus and the seven Philosophers should be brought bound before the Senate being however resolved that so soon as he had finished his discourse which in his opinion could be nothing but to aske mercy and pardon he should be publickly executed and with him the seven Philosophers according to the Sentence formerly given and the evening before confirmed the news was already spread throughout all Rome how that the Empress had the evening before obtained of the Emperour that without any process or delay the young Prince Erastus and his seven Masters should the next morning be publickly executed so that before day break the place of execution was full of Spectators to see the end and issue of this spectacle every one believing it impossible that so vertuous persons as the Philosophers should be miserably and publickly executed with the only Son and heir of a Roman Emperour and that their wisdome and vertue which was known to all could not save them not that none would engage in their rescue The people being thus gathered together some of them perceived the Jaylor when he went to the Emperour and therefore followed him being inquisitive after news but were hindred by the Guard from entring the Pallace only some Noble men and persons of quality were admitted and were present when the Emperour commanded the Jaylor to bring forth the Prince these relating this news abroad to others it was matter of novelty to all as being of so great importance that it could not be hid in obscurity so that at length it became so publick that not only all in the Pallace was acquainted therewith but also the whole City of Rome and principally the Senators who had upon this occasion been already sent for so that throughout the whole City there was a world of people of all sorts and qualities men and women great small who being every where met together made it their whole business all expecting the issue conclusion of the speech that Erastus would make before the Senate where every one strived to get a place that they might hear what would be said Only the Empress hearing of this news began to suspect her affair as well in respect of certain remorse of conscience which pressed her as for the novelty of the case so that being retired into her Chamber she ruminated in her thoughts the event of this discourse and she already repented of the rashness of her pursuit and then on a sudden she would take courage by a certain presumption that had possessed her and further enflamed her with malice and angâ—â— setting good spies upon the place to know when Erastus should be brought before the Emperour and to give her an account of all passages that should happen All the world being in this expectation the young Prince Erastus arived who went before his Masters all thâ—ir hands being fettered and as strictly guarded as if they had been going to execution as the Emperour had commanded which â—pectacle moved â—ll to compassion But on the contrary the young Prince marched with so much magnaminity and confideâ—ce that he appeared as if he had made a Triumphant entry rather then to go to execution And there did he see his Father sitting in the Senate purposing not to be overcome by fatherly love although his Son should beg pardon or favour but to leave him to the Justice of the Law Erastus being come to a convenient place with a voice high enough to be heard of all began as followeth I deny not my Lord and Father that the Creatures of this world every one in its kind do sometimes produce eff cts degenerating from their essence so that there is nothâ—ng here below that arives to an absolute perfection but when this miâ—fortâ—nâ— happens to man to see wicked Children issue from good Parents who however have taken pains to have them well bred up and instructed such as these may be reckoned not to be men but brute Beasts And therefore so much the more should I confess my self to be such if I should commit or think of committing so great a crime as that wherewith I am charged and should
were gentile and honorable and Fortune was so favourable to him in this enterprise that in short time he saw his son very well instructed in Learning and Armes and in all other vertuous actions becoming a Gentle-man yet however seeing that he was morose and melancholly by reason he had no company in the house to converse with at home neither had he travelled abroad for there is no better way to know the World than to travel in it which gives a greater reputation to men and is more profitable than to live alwayes at home in their Nests wherefore that he might please him he resolved to travel into several places and having made provision of moneys necessary for such an undertaking and chosen out those that should accompany or attend him he provided and furnished a Ship wherein he and all his company embarqued and having taken order about his Domestick affairs with the first good wind they set sail and having sailed several dayes and meeting with a storm they made towards an Island where they landed in this Island he had a mind to remain some dayes as being a pleasant place well manured and the Inhabitants very civil and courteous but being desirous to pursue his Voyage he embarkqued when he and his son had no sooner left the shore but they saw two Birds as white as Swans who hovered about their Vessel and in the end perched on the Antient of the main Mâ—st where they had not long rested but they descended as if they would have setled on the head of the young Hermogenes but soon returned from whence they came where they began to warble sing so sweetly harmoniously that one would have imagined them to have bin Musitianâ— that endeavoured to shew their utmost skill and cunning so that all the Ships company who were pleased with their harmony durst not stir for fear of disturbing them Europus who had formerly learned several words of the auguries of Birds and their significations bethought himself what this might mean being ignorant whither it foretold good or evil and seeing his son very pensive and yet nevertheless very pleasant in countenance he said to him is it possible that what I have formerly heard hath been true that there are brute Beasts who by extraordinary gestures will foretel things to come and that there are men so wise as to understand them there is nothing more certain replyed young Hermogenes for often times by these and such like means some men have fore-told several accidents to come a long time before they have hapned and that their hearts might be enlightned and be upon the greater certainty they offered sacrifices proper thereunto making use of many things that I shall not at present mention If this be true said the Father I would gladly know the meaning of the singing of these two Birds if you are very desirous said young Hermogenes for the Obligation which I have to obey you I will give you that satisfaction let what will befal me and therefore you are to take notice that all which you have seen and all the warbling of the Birds was made only in respect of me and of my future greatness for these Birds have signifyed no other thing but as they perched themselves so much higher than you are so much hereafter shall I surpass you in greatness in sign whereof they have begun to sing praises to me The Merchant Europus hearing this was surprized tither with Choller or Envy or rather with both together and in a great fury said I will take order that this angury shall not take effect and saying so he took his son by the shoulders and threw him over-board into the Sea saying to those in the Ship that although he desired his Sons advancement yet however he intended not to make him greater than himself and that he had rather choose to dye without an Heir than to give the least respect in the world to his Son and therefore he commanded instantly to hoyst up the sailes and steer their course for Alexandria certainly believing that his Son was devoured by the waveâ— but it hapned quite otherwise for he thinking to abase his Son and to hinder the greatness that was prepared for him he shortned his way thereunto young Hermogenes than endeavouring to gain the shore by swiming so well as he could a strong wind so assisted him that in less than an hour he found himself ashore on the same Island from whence they set out from whence his cruel father had cast him into the Sea being much weary spent yet the Islanders releived him so well having compassion for the cruelty that had been shewed to him that he in short time recovered and having continued two dayes in that Island he saw a very large Merchants Ship wâ—â— endeavoured to take harbor there to refresh themselves and take in fresh water and considering with himself that to continue longer in that Island his condition would not be better he made his case known to the Master of the Ship who was a rich Merchant of Candy named Sterifo who having discoursed with young Hermogines and understanding from him particularly how every thing had hapned he asked him what course he intended to take to this the young man answered that he was content to what he shâ—uld please to command him if he would be pleased to accept of his service whereupon Sterifo being very willing accepted of him and from that time Hermogenes disposed himself to serve him truly and faithfully which he performed so well that Sterifo being childless and being out of hopes of having any Children purposed to adopt the young Hermogenes â—eeing his good and honest carriage which was every way such as Sterifo desired in a Son if he had had any Being arrived at his house and having acquainted his wife with his design he found her very willing and free to it and fâ—on after they both declared him for their proper Child and because of the bounty of Fortune which had been manifested towards him they changed his Namâ— and called him Entichus that is to say Bonadventure or good Adventure which being done you may understand that if at the beginning a young man so well bred had carried himself respectively towards Stirefo and his Wife when he was adopted he then made it his Study to do much better and with all fidelity diligence and readiness to apply himself to their service It was about this time that the King of Candy who was named Critorneus that is to say a Judge of Birds whether that were his proper name or only imposed on him by a certain accident was then in great trouble and not knowing which way or how to deliver himself out of it he counted himself to be unhappy and unfortunate and being ignorant of the cause of this trouble he Judged that some great misfortune would befall him and the Candiots his Subjects had a bad opinion of him supposing that this had
them and feared of his enemies Thus affairs growing every day better and better it happened that in the Citty of Alexandria which was his naturall Country the great warrs unfruitful seasons and other bad influences had caused such a Scarcity of Victuals that the g eateâ—t part of the inhabitants dyed with famine so that the inhabitants of Alexandria were necessitated to travel into several Countries to get Corn for the poor and therefore they made choice of the most expert and the most knowing men that they could find amongst them who willingly accepted of the Imployment because they were well provided with every thing that from other parts they might relieve their Citizens passing their time at the charge of others Among the rest they made Choice of Europus the naturall Father of Entichus and who had thrown him into the Sea who having taken Povt in the Isle of Candy where the Stars had so long before prepared a Crown for him he desired leave to buy up in that Island a great quantity of Corn King Entichus being acquainted herewith caused enquitey to be made who they were that were in the Ship and from whence they came and being informed of the truth and knowing the necessity of his Country and the name of the Commander and of the Ship he did suspect that it was his Father and therefore he purposed before he departed to make himself known to him and to put him in mind of the great fault which he had committed Whereupon having sent for him to come to his Pallace pretending to discourse with him about other affairs he caused him to stay and Dine with him which invitation he knowing not how to refuse accepeted of wâ—th such honour and reverence as hath been accustomed to be used by those who speak with Kings Princes and other great Lords Being at the Table after that the King had sufficiently informed himself of the estate of the City of Alexandria in generall he questioned with his Father of his particular affairs of his name and how many Children he had Whereupon the Merchant having told his name answered sighing that he had no Children and that he never had but one who perished in the Sea by a miserable misfortune It may be said the King your Son is not dead for there is one here present who hath escaped from such a like misfortune as you speak of and as he saith he is the Son of a Merchant of the City of Alexandria and thereforâ— advised him to look about him upon all the Company there present for it may happen that he may know his Son before his Son did know him The Merchant observing what the King had said began to take notice of all those that were in the Hall and on the other side every one looked upon him believing that they should understand somewhat that was as yet unknown and after he had well looked upon and taken notice of every one he said to the K ng that he could not find that his Son was there present whereupon the King said if you had well considered the Spectacle which you had of the two white Birds and the interpretation that was made to you you would of your self have known that which I shall now tell you for it was I my felf whose way to greatness you would hinder instead of advanceing it as you ought The good man hearing him speak of two white Birds suddenly changed his Collour being confounded within himself with shame But when he heard this spoken to his face and in the presence of so many great Lords the occasion that had moved him to such an excess he gâ—ew pale and red both at once and knowing no other way to make amends for his faults he arose from the Table and cast himself at his Sons feet asking him pâ—rdon But the King who was no less generous then great and puissant took hold of him and raised him praying him that forgetting what was passed he would make use of that power which God had given him and that he would rest contented that he had made him know by effects that it is impossible to interrupt or hinder that which the pleasure of God hath once ordained and so having sent by others a sufficient quantity of Corn for his Country he caused his Father to remain with him taking order to bring the rest of his family to Candy to participate of that good fortune which had befallen him contrary to all humane thoughts and which he had well and wisely persued By this Example said Erastus and many others as admirable as this which I could relate we may assuredly conclude that whatsoever hath been once ordained and established above doth usually come to pass so that nothing here below can obstruct or hinder it being assured of this I and my Masters did expose our selves to very great hazard and danger in our coming to Rome and the only remedy that we had was for me to be silent for the space of seven days in doing whereof the heavens promised me a good issue and deliverance provided that some would defend my cause for that Term the which my seven Masters like prudent and valliant Champions have done I therefore resolved to follow the right remedy which had been prescribed me for the conservation of my life and honour the which otherwise I should have dishonourably lost as the heavens had let me know soon after my arrivall at Rome the shame whereof would have been much more grievious to me than the death wherewith I was threatned Behold then what hath induced me and indeed enforced me to be Dumb these seven days which I suppose hath been as much to your astonishment as my trouble to see my self constrained by a fatall silence to confirme the opinion that every one might have that I would commit an action so wicked and wretched as that which hath been falsly charged on me by the Empress who being a woman and naturally enclined to be fickle and angry and having been lately in love with me it is no wonder if she hath converted that love which she first shewed me into a mortal hatred endeavouring to make me dye who am her Son in Law as it hath frequently befallen others who without any reason have prosecuted their Sons in law either through hatred or anger As for hatred we may finde examples enough in antient Histories as that which Jur conceived against Phrisso and Helle and of the Modern Histories there are enough and of hatred we may read how the cruel Phedra treated the innocent Hipolitus whose companion I had certainly bin both in cause and miserable death if the evident danger wherein I was had not been manifested to me by Heaven and the means to escape it the which I have hitherto done by the good assistance of my Masters here present to whom I am indebted not only for the good instructions I have received of them but also for my life as for the crime