that the poor for knew it was in earnest they mockt him and that they restrained not themselves as when he was taken for the Prince and Heir of Goâ—zarate Admire the weaknesse inconstancy of men it was not two bours before that this young man was adored of all the People and followed of the whole Court and however extravagant he were on the belief men had that he was born a Prince they honoured him as a god although they knew he was a shame and reproach to the Kingdom and behold in one hour Fortune overturning in him what soever was thought she had establih'd everlastingly every body leaves him and that supposed rank which they feared and disguis'd their faces with a feigned approbation of his follies being known for counterfeit they freely scoff'd at the poor wretch who soon became the sport of the whole Court The King however had some kinde of pitty on him and truly were it only but for that this poor unhappy creature had had the honor to carry the title of Prince and to passe some years for the Kings only son it was just this that somewhat should be assur'd him during his life which might take him out of that abject condition where it to his rudenesse had east him again The King then finding that he was half in dispence concerning his greatnesse resolv'd to put him wholly out of his errour and to tell him how that supposal grew But said he Eurimedes for you must retain that name henceforth which is you fathers because I will be known to be kinde and charitable and that I will nor forsake what I have once set in honor and credit Ask me any title or other thing which may be fit for you in my Kingdom and you shall gladly have it Every man expected he should have craved some high condition where profit might be joyn'd with honor but he deceiv'd the company when above all things with a smiling countenance and see ling nothing at all of his past sorrow he desired he might have that poor wench of the Town whom he had in times past so well liked The great Aleidarts could not abstain from laughing and turning him towards the Queen and Lisimantus Truly said he Nature doth what she doth very well giving ordinarily mean thoughts to low souls as noble hearts she maketh capable of glory and of high desires Yes said he Eurimedes take her but when thou are married to her upon what wilt thou live for I believe my son will not let thee enjoy his revenue nor those other things which thou usurpedst from him Hereat the poor blockhead lost his joy again and not knowing what to answer the King assur'd him of a good Pension and his father for his faithfulness a better and the better to please the whole Court which could not enough honor his dear Lisimantus he sent one of his guard to fetch the Maid and all her friends and presently gave her to Eurimedes who as easily forgot all his greatnesses as if he never had possessed them and bounded all his glory and ambition with the possession of that woman his equal Lisimantus was yet very pale as well by reason of the wounds he had received from his brothers hand as for the little rest he had had in that dark prison where the Cambaiansâ— fury had some daies detained him yet was he a subject of all the Ladies admiration of the Court who sinding him as exquisite in spirit as shape could no less praise his courtesie than countenance and blessed heaven that truth was manifest to their advantage and that they were to live under so fine and gallant a Prince But although he was as kinde to them all as civility and good manners permitted him his mind forbare not to wander other where and the sight of so many beauties served but to awake more fervently the remembrance of his dear Lisimena As soon as he knew himself a Prince that adorable beauty was the first object which came into his thoughts and presently apprehended that inequality would be no longer an obstacle to his Love If he were joyed at that quality and if his heart were touched to the quick it was only because it promis'd him a freer accesse to Lisimena for otherwise he was too generous to prize that present of Fortune and be proud of it he knew his courage was above the highest Thrones and that he had enough wherewithall to obtain those Crowns and greatnesses which his birth might have denyed him He found he had a Princes soul and illustrious blood was the least matter he accounted of in such as governed with equity and who by sweetness rather than Tyranny made themselves more absolute in their Dominionâ— The King his father could not enough admire his actions whenever he remembred his past Victories and thought upon the glory which his young son Anaxander had gotten and the courage they both had to meet so many encounters and dangerous occasions he could not chuse but thank the gods and flatter himself with that sweet vanity that he was the happiest father and most redoubted King of all Asia in such children His Physicians very provident for their new Princes health fearing lest after so ill usage and so little rest as he had had in eight or ten daies misery before his felicity he might fall sick desired his Majesty to perswade him to keep his bed a while that they might purge him of the evill humours which might have grown in him But it being by the King proposed to Lisimantus Sir said be if you will set my mind at rest and purge it of all melancholy that troubles it I conjure you in the name of the gods whom you worship to send instantly an Embassadour to the King of Zeylan When you shall have assured him that I have the honor to be acknowledged your son I know he will nor deny me his daughter which is the only content of my soul and thing in the world which can make me happy Son said the King unto him I have no other meaning than yours and I am only sorry that you have prevented me by your request foâ—â— intended to propose it to you for your good But do not you desire to have your first name of Alcidaris restored to you which you lost by so strange a fortune me thinks my Subjects will have greater cause of joy when they shall see you inherit my name as well as a good part of my Crown and will thereby the better know you for their lawful Lord. Let them Sir replyed Lisimantus know me only by the honor I have to be issued from you and the actions I intend to perform for their advantage and suffer use to wear the brave name of Lisimantus so solemnly given me by the fairest mouth of the world and being the first mark of credit which I got abroad It may suffice if you think fit that I write my self Alcidaris like you and name my self
had brought that little Prince into the world with pains incredible she choaked in her Convulsions and the first hower of her childbed gave the last unto her life Now though Alcidaris were not ensirely so much tender of her at she of him nor had the just same feelings that she had yet could not chuse but by that unexpected death receive most strong impressions great was the grief he shewed and whatsoever pomp the quality of so great and vertuous a Princesse as she was requir'd did wait upon his mourning and her Funerals But as there is no wound however it may seem incurable but time may heal this which Alcidaris received was not so great as that there needed a whole age to comfort him for after one year ended he became most passionably enamored of the Queen Anaxareta who by the death of her brother Spimantus newly being arriv'd was heir unto the Kingdom of Dulcinda which does on the one side border on the King my fathers Countries and on Persia on the other The reason why so passionately he pursu'd that Love was that besides his pleasure there was profit in it and thought that by uniting Dulcinda to his other Kingdoms he should be an equal powerful neighbour to the Persian Perswaded by these reasons but more by love that forced him he sent one named Pirobus and of the ablest of his Kingdom in Embassage to the Queen Anaxareta He was receiv'd as coming from so great a Prince with much magnificence but wondred greatly that the answer he received was no more favorable She only told him thus that the King of Cambaye had done her a great deal of honour but that the King her brother being so lately dead and having scarce wip'd off her tears it could not be she should so soon forget him nor in such haste run from his Funerals to her own espousals and therefore pray'd the King his Master not to hold it strange that she desired more time to think thereof This Embassador who was a man of great discretion and knew the extream passion of Alcidaris resting but poorly satisfied with this answer and knew his Master would be likewise so bethought him that of Force some greater reason must restrain the Queen than of her brothers death who almost two years since had died and should have caus'd her greater joy than sorrow for which cause he makes adresses to the chiefest Statist there and dives into him to discover if he could his Mistriss meanings he shews him how the King of Cambaye was her neer neighbour and one of the most powerful Monarchs of the Indies That over and above his greatness and his wealth he had all qualities which might commend a man to a fair Ladies acceptation that in all Asia his Mistresse could not finde a fitter match that there needed no long time to think upon a matter which depended only on her will And that he knew not what to infer by the coldness of her answer save that she loved some other since she neglected the desires of a Prince so mighty and one who could not be but a great strength unto her This States-man who desired to pay him with more solid reasons than the Queen had done thought t was no matter of importance if he told him what he guest she thought which was that being of a mighty spirit and knowing that Alcidaris had had a son by the Queen Berenica who as himself was call'd Alcadaris and should when he were dead possesse his Kingdoms she could not abide that those that should proceed from her should ever happen to be seconds or in rank or in affection and being able to dispose of the Kingdom of Dulcinda she thought she might do better to chuse out a Gentleman her Subject who should be her creature and by whom she might have children heirs to her possessions than to match a King of whose inheritance she could not see a hope for hers And this said he in my opinion is the cause that backs the Queen for she is not so ignorant both of the qualities and vertues of the King your Master but that she holds him for the man of most advantage for her choice save only that his heir is born already Pirobus more satisfi'd herewith than by the reasons given him from the Queen though very little notwithstanding seeing how far from giving comfort to his Master returns towards him and from point to point gives him account of his Embassage Alcidaris as well as possible he could dissembled the disquiet this il news procur'd him and I know not if his love oblig'd him or that as yet some little hope remained for him But as if heaven would favour his desires about eight or ten months end report ran all about that the young Prince Alcidaris was very sick and that his tender age not able to defend it self against the strong assaults of a continued Feavor death had delivered him The sorrow which the King put on was so great that for the space of forty daies he suffred not himself to be seen by any creatures except Pirobus his faithful Counsellour The noise of his great losse immediately was spread throughout and came to the Queen Anaxaretas ears who seeing that great obstacle remov'd desir'd no greater thing in all the world than that alliance and in a word to end Pirobus being sent the second time had his desire and some few daies after did Alcidaris possesse both Anaxaretas beauties and her Kingdoms peacefully Now Madam from that happy Marriage I am sprung and named Anaxander from my Mothers name Almost about the same time I was born Ametista Queen of Citor and only sister to the King my father was delivered of Piroxenus whom you see here under name of Callistenus we were bred up and taught together and besides our age and blood which knit us in a perfect friendship nature augmented it by so exact a correspondency of humours as never was observed the least disparity in our opinions and truly since our friendship hath foundation but on vertue only t is not to be admired that from a cause eternal such effects of everlastingness are seen The wise Evander from my tendrest youth had me in government and Alcidaris who much desired to frame me after the example of that honorable man drew him from the Province of Carmanie on very great expence for he was Master of some nine or ten Languages and ignorant of nothing that another man did know He had not only care of me but likewise had an eye to Piroxenus whom he found exceeding capable of his good doctrines and we both so well profited by his instructions as we soon learned all the secrets of the Persian and Arabique tongues which travel mostly throughout all the Indies this side Ganges Besides the recreations of our minds we exercis'd our bodies likewise and familiarly disguising our selves on daies of ceremony or delight we got the prizes with our Lances and at Fencing too and
Vessel weather beaten seemed to be rather forced in by contrary winder than come voluntary wherein were two Cavalliers of good countenance who craved leave to refresh themselves in the Town the most eminent of them was in ill case being hurt in divers places of his body Now by reason that place was of great importance to the King of Cambaya they accustomed to keep a good guard and to suffer none to enter whose name and quality and business thither was not known and because those two Gentlemen who arrived then newly in that Vessel being ignorant of the custom had refused to name themselves advertisement was given the Governor and his farther pleasure demanded Evander imagining that it might happily be the two young Princes his Pupels who it may be would not discover themselves till they came to Court and surpriz all people he went himself unto the Haven and borded the Bark wherein he found a young Knight lain all his length upon a Matteresse who althuogh he seemed greatly suffering by his hurts which the tempest had augmented shewed notwithstanding a certain majesty in his eyes and face which made him reverenced of all that saw him Evander knew well enough that t was some personage of note and as he was extremely full of charity and hospitable seeing the Gentleman who accompanied him would not tell his name he thought however that the laws of civility did command and oblige his succour and to offer them not only the Town but his Castle also for their better accomodation The strangers accepted his offer and so much care was had of him that was hurt as that in eight or ten daies he gave undoubted signes of an approaching health Now as he was very generous and infinitely sensible of the good entertainment and usage shewn him by Evander her thought he could not do lesse in gratitude than discover himself unto him that he might know he had obliged Lisimantus that vallorous Lisimantus who had got so great a fame and whose glorious name was renowned through all Asia Poor Lisimantus how much had it been better that thou hadst not discovered thy self than to have payed so dearly for the honor given thy excellent vertues at thy first comming at lest shouldest thou have been contented to have told thy name without particulars of thy quarrel which will set thee into the strangest confusion thou yet ever sawest Evander knowing that this stranger was the valiant Lisimantus who had so worthily served the King of Zeylar and who so lately had perform'd so brave exploits in the Kingdom of Narsinga had a double cause of being glad not only for that he had it in his power to oblige a man of that condition but that the assured himself he should learn news of Anaxander and Piroxenus under the borrowed names of Ariomant and Calistenus but before he enquired seeing that the Cavallier disposed himself to recount unto him his adventure and how after being so grievously hurt he came to the Port of Bazain being very glad to be enformed willingly gave his attension and Lisimantus innocently began his discoarse without considering what manner of man he was to speak unto or what kinde of people he was to have to do with Know said he most reverend father that alter my triumph over the King of Maldives and if I had set all the Island of Zeylan at quiet and been very helpful to the King of Narsingas peace I quitted the Wars and finding again in Baticalus the only object of my passion that adorable Lisimena who had alwaies payed my love with ingratitude and but whose name I well perceive I shall alone possess my flames renewed and I felt my self so to the quick sollicited by my amorous desires as I used all manner of subtilties and invention to be in private with her but she ungrateful who never sufficiently acknowledge the services which I have done her Crown augmenting her disdains as my pains grew instead of enduring me neer her as my fidelity alone obliged her enough rebuking and repelling whosoever spake to my advantage she at length committed the most notable Treason against me that was ever contrived against a miserable Lover There was in the King of Narsinga Court a young Knight of Persia very accomplished indeed and worthy of great praise who having by much industry the honor to be known by her was notwithstanding preferred before my long and faithfull services I understood by a little Page of the Princessers that every night he was brought secretly into her company and spent six hours together with her and how that ungratefull Princess breathed nought but love for him I will not deny but that hereat so jealous a madness in such sort transported me as not able to endure the happinesse of that Rival I waited for him on an evening where he vsed to passe towards his amorous randezvous and not able for my anger to understand his reasons I call'd him instantly to fight with me Evander who with impatience looked that he should name that young Knight and finding that he was too long about it interrupting him demanded it His name was Ariomant said Lisimantus and well said Evander full of fear what is become of him I slew him said Lisimantus and truly I have since lamented it for a more valiant Knight I never met He was about to continue on his discourse and tell them how after the death of Ariontant whom he verily believed was slain because Zenobus had assured him that he saw him stretched out in his blood without warmth or motion being in but little better case himself he was carried to a Bark which attended him and how thinking to avoid the coast of Zeylan to shun the King of Narfinga his anger whose Edict they had broken a contrary winde arising which begot a furious tempest had cast them on the Coast of Cambaya neer the Haven of Bazain He was I say about to have recounted all these particulars but that he was prevented by an accident which did surprize him and which no lesse a mazed all that were about him that himself for at the recital of Ariomants death Evander fell into a swound on Lisimantus bed They all ignorant of the reason of this suddain change threw water in his face and when he was come to himself which a deep sigh cry'd out my friends we have embraced the murtherer of your and my Master and uttering these words he gave plain evidence of a second weaknesse which grew on him but being prevented by the ready help administred Unhappy and most cruel hospitallity said he we shew kindenesse and are civil unto one who vaunts that he hath cut our Princes throat and who unjustly stirred his courage and without cause provoked it Let the wicked man be set safe added he and seaze upon his second in the quarel and as they are let them be instantly conveighed towards the King that even himself may order what he please concerning them
Immediately the guard that was with Evander bound the poor Lisimantus as he lay in bed so weak but half recovered of his hurts and seaz'd on Zenobus as well whom with his friend they put into a Chariot to carry them without delay to the City of Catupanel where the King of Cambaya was The people of Bazain when they knew that those two prisoners which passed in the Chariot had slain their Prince Anaxander for the acceptable news of whose safety they had lately made Bonefires were so provoked as had it not been for Evanders authority which restrained them I verily believe they had stoned to death those two unhappy ones or else dismembred them alive On the other part the generous Lisimantus having from the first known for what cause he had been used so rigorously by a man from whom be had received so much countesse â—epented him but too late for having named him whom he abought he had seperated from the world and whom till that time he had taken but for an ordinary Knight but seeing that after the Laws of hospitality so sweetly observed in favor of him so great inhumanity was used towards him his great courage could no longer commin and addressing himself to Evander who accompanied him on horseback compassed about with Halberts What means all this my father said he must I be like those ancient sacrifices which were wont to be crowned with flowers before their being slain do you believe that all those praises you have given me and flowers of Rhetorick which you have prodigally wasted in my behalf do make your cruelty the sweeter what cursed custom is it you practise to make such fair appearance to those you do design for punishment like those Sea-monsters who seeming amiable charm the passengers with their pleasing voice for no other end but to destroy them Is' t after that sort you are hospitable to strangers Is' t so you use the afflicted who seek their shelter in your arms when they are under persecution of their evill fortune Evander withdrew himself behinds the Chariot for fear he might be forry his heart was in such manner wounded as he considered but his own grief and in that sense of his Lords death was nothing moved by Lisimantus reproaches or complaints But in the mean time that the false news of Anaxanders death shall with him be carried to the King of Cambaya at Campanel le ts make a turn into Narsinga to see how he does of his wounds and the Kings departure from Baticalus to return for Bisnagar As soon as that magnanimous Prince had answered Pirobus his demand and that he had sent him back laden with presents and honors and having no more to do in the Province of Canara and finding that notwithstanding the strict search of the Combatants no news was to be had after having placed a new Governor over Baticalus in Zenobus his stead he departed with his whole Court but carried with him his resentment and wrath against those who with so much impudence had violated his Edict and resolv'd where ever they were found to punish them with rigor The fair Orazia who saw him willfull in that bloody resolution was much disquieted and her heart troubled with divers and sundry motions when she perceiv'd the Court drew neer to Saradins Castle wherein was hid the richest treasure of her soul if on the one side her fear of his discovery did trouble her the pleasure of her hope to see him was so acceptable as both compar'd her joy was greater than her sorrow and her hope prevail'd above her fear At worst she thought the danger of his being found in that place would not be great because it would be easie for her to prove his birth as well by Arintus declaration whose letter she kept as by Lisimena's testimony who had heard all the adventures of his life However though she found much safety in all these proofs shew was not with out fear when the King whom she saw so severe entred the Castle she at first imagined that some of Saradins people who had seen the two Princes comming might for hope of recompence betray them but she was soon assured by the Master of the house who answered for the truth of those that guarded them and who promis'd she should see them if she might trust one off her women for they were lodged over her Chamber He had forbidden the way to that retired part of the house making the harbengers believe that they were Store-houses where he had set certain Houshold-stuff and reserv'd it for himself alone and those who had care of the princes and the way to go unto them when he pleased In so much as when night came the Princesses who would lye together they often did feigning to be weary of their journey retired betimes and would not suffer any of their women to lie that night in their Chamber they only call'd for a watch light for Orazia seemed as if she would read in her bed When they were laid they sent away their women not daring to trust any one of them and when every body was asleep they rose softly cloathed one the other to go to Saradin who expected them at the door and was to conduct them where the two Princes were Orazia would never endure that any other should have knowledge of that important secret which she would have conccaled even from her dear Lisimena however well she was assured of her faith fulness had not her company been then so necessary to her This fair stranger Princess had never been at ease since Lisimantus combat for as I have already said she Iov'd him secretly in her heart although her glorious courage never suffered her to shew it and for she had understood nothing of him she feared somewhat worse had besaln him than had to Anaxander and what was grievous to her was that she dar'd not openly enquire after him besides that very few were able to say what had become of him But Orazia promis'd her to enquire of Piroxenus who better than any other could tell whiter hee were alive or not being he who had advanced himself to purt them and who had found them in the lamentable case which I have told you Each then cast a robe about her and fitted their hair as well as they could and their naturall graces surpassing all that art could adde unto them they thus went to the sick Princes Lodgings where Saradin conducted them As soon as Anaxander saw appear before his eyes the onely beauty of the world which hee adored accompanyed with her dear and faithfull Lisimena My Ladies cryed he out is it possible that you have done me this honor take so much pains for a subject of so mean importance Recover your self once brave Anaxander answered Orazia and you shall see of what importance your health is to my contentment But I conjure you to conceal your self as much as you can whiles you are in our Countreys for
afflicted as if her Father had been spoyl'd of all his Countries whom formne and the valour of Lisimantus had made victorious over the King of Maldives and who had 〈◊〉 his Empire over all his enemies possessions Lasimena I say forgot the pleasures of these Conqueslis and only would remember that great loss so late received in that Country which she loved equall with her own although she had not had an obligation by the Laws of nature and of blood Now as she never fail'd from alwayes being with Orazia to assist in the contrivances of new Pastimes far was it from her thoughts to leave her in the woefull case whereto this new mis-fortune had reduced her But how was their entertainment now altered from thier former conversation for whereas they were wont to breath no other thing than sweetness and content they now could nothing else but mix confusedly their tears and sighs not able to speak a word Thus in embraces they were found when Saradin Arontus faithfull squire with a countenance bearing deaths picture in it entred the Princess Chamber and kneeling said Madam behold the first time ever I unwillingly observ'd my Masters commands and surely I obey him now in this last service in duty to a sorrowfull Commission and saying this he from his pocket drew a handkerchief to wipe his tears which ran about his face abundantly and in his other hand holding a Letter sealed with Arontus Signet Madam said he see the last reliques of that generous Prince which made all India tremble at him dying he ever named you and when he saw Physicians left him having but two houres time to live he spent that space to let you see his last desires under his dying hand in this short letter which he wanted strength to finish yet had he care to have it sealed in his presence whiles he lived and among all his people who lamented him about his bed within his Tent he chose out me and thus said to me Saradin as soon as mine eyes close go to my Sister and tell her she observe what I advise her by this Letter which thou shalt trust no other hand with than her own scarce had he said these words but that his soul followed them and took its flight to heaven The fair Orazia who had not need of this addition to her sorrow had notwithstanding resolution enough to open the letter which she received from the faithfull squire But yet her tears which choak'd her eyes gave her not leave so soon to see that it contain'd these words Arontus Letter to Orazia MY deer Sister the little time I have to live I spend in teaching thee to bear my death with comfort I pray thee trouble not thy self because it could not be more glorious for it has succeeded the destruction of our enemies whom I have over-thrown in battell The only grief I have in dying is that I cannot with my person clear a truth unto you which is needfull you should know Those accomplish'd Knights who under names of Ariomant and Calistenus have so long aisguis'd themselves among us are two of the most renowned Princess of Asia and I conjure thee to observe the Gods intention and thy Brothers last will which do ordain the first of them to be thy husband he is the son of great Al The poor Prince would have said Alâ—idaris King of Cambaye and Father to the generous Anaxander whose qualities and manners he intended to describe if so his hand had power to second his desire but strength upon a suddain fayling him by reason of his mortall wounds received he was constrained to leave unperfected his Letter and in his presence have it sealed as it was to keep his promise given the Prince Anaxander and his Cousin Proxenus that he would never make them known but to his Sister Orazia nor make their birth apparent till they were fit to shew themselves in Princes equipage before the King of Narsinga This letter did redouble her affliction and among the violent touches of her sorrow waked her amourous dislurbances After she had a thousand times accused the heavens and curs'd Arontus fatall victory which cost his life comming at length to cast her eyes upon the notice he had given her in his Letter admire the force and power of love a suddain alteration surprised her and mov'd her thoughts from the sad mourning of her brother to reflect upon her Lover She alwayes had opinion that Ariomant whose actions were so Kingly must be of eminent quality and notwithstanding his so humble fashion in the King her Fathers Court she knew that in his eyes and Courage there was somewhat great and famous But at that instant she receiv'd so glorious a testimony of his birth she neither could disguise apprehension nor dissemble from Lisimenaes eyes the passion she was in to be more fully satisfied For which cause drawing Saradin apart My friend said she to him since the misfortune hapned to us by thy Masters loss hat testimony hath Ariamont given who now commands the Army Madam answered Saradin since that wofull day where in the Prince forced to leave us gave him the guidance of our Troops he hath so worthily discharg'd himself that though he be a stranger and known by nothing but his actions he hath not purchased the smallest jealousie all our Captains with delight obey him and though the Prince had not himself appointed him as chief I think he had been chosen by the Armies generall consent His wisdom and his valour are so met and so full of every vertue sit to make up a commander that if there be any thing which may administer a comfort to us in this dire mischance it is to see our Prince his power hath fallen into so noble hands The Princess receiv'd a two-fold mitigation of her sorrow when she learnt that he to whom she had already given her heart not knowing his descent was not alone a Prince by birth but that his reputation was so great and universally admired by all the King her Fathers subjects as that she saw fair likely-hoods of good success unto her loves The only curiosity she had to know his parentage and over what people he commanded did yet keep her unsatisfied and gathering by Saradins discourse that in the Army he was not held for what he was she guest there was some reason why he publish'd not himself and that she could not know the truth thereof except himself did tell it her This was the reason why among so many other questions ask'd of Saradin she enquired of him whether his return would not be shortly Madam answered the faithfull squire as soon as he shâ—ll have conquered that rest of the Kingdom of Decan which had been made a prey unto those two revolted slaves whom we have punished and overthrown in battell he will bring back the victorious army which as you know have decreed sacred honours to my Master whose pretious body embalmed will be within a
sole consideration which you stuck on was that by the Queen Berenisa my first wife I had a Son and that my heir already born you would not suffer that your Children should be second in affection or degree to any This being return'd me by my faithfull Pirobus I seem'd to take no notice of it but after some time was past wee both agree'd together that if I meant to compass my desire in that sute where-on depended all my happiness I must needs send away my Son and spread a noyse that he was dead And judge you Madam to what extremity I loved you being compell'd to take so contrary a resolution to the lawes of nature For this cause I commanded a Coffin to be laid with Royall pomp into the earth and suffered none in forty dayes to see me that I might better act the part of a lost Father Mean while I gave my Son in charge to Pirobus whose name was like mine own Alcidaris not to be sent so far away but that I might when I desir'd hear often of him He had acquaintance with an Arabian Merchant and an honest man named Eurimedes who was most frequent in the City of Deu one of the best havens of my Kingdom and teaded to Cambaye where at that time he was To him he went and gave that pledge into his custody which for your love I had abandoned He told the Merchant how he had receiv'd that child from a woman of great quality commended him to his best cate and that he might be bred among his own and told him one day it m ight happen that a worthy recompence might grow unto him In the inferior because he might be known again and for he had no mark about him Pirobus made one upon his arm where he imprinted the Arms of Cambaye with a needles point and the joyce of a certain herb wch never wears away which done he does again commend him to the Merchant whom that he might the better love the child and be more carefull of him he enjoyned to beslow his own name of Eurimedes upon him In so much as very often I have heard of him also known the Merchants care as well for the great pâ—yâ— cause him every year to receive as for the love he bears to Pirobus to whom he thinks he is obliged for that favour But Madam said the King moreover the Gods can bear me witness I had tane your deer Anaxander into so great affection as I forgot the love I ought his Brother and if he had well behav'd himself I think his humor which beyond all others that I know delighted me together with my wonderfull affection to your self had so much won upon me as I had made him heir to all my three Crowns but seeing he hath shewn himself so giddy-headed and so ill advised as to leave me to pursue his foolish fantasies as well as his Cousin whom so deerly I had loved having no other prop to rest on left me Think not a miss Madam that I send Pirobus to Diu to seek me out Alcidaris 't is now no longer fit he should be hid nor that on my part I should more conceal the love I bear my proper Son These my deer children said Evander are the very words the King himself delivered who without alteration at the Queens complaints and tears dispatched Pirobus immediately Being ariv'd at Diu he wonderfully amazed the Merchant when he told him that ye child whom he so long had bred was heir unto the King The noise hereof was spread incontinently through the City and all the inhabitants came in throngs to kisse their Princes hands Pirobus who had not seen him since his first delivery into the Merchants hands could know him only by the mark he graved on his arm The young man more than any other grew in admiration at the honors which were done him For he believ'd he was that Merchants son and look'd for nothing lesse than to be honor'd as a Prince He was by Pirobus conducted to the City of Campanel and carried both the Merchant and his children with him on whom he afterward caus'd goodly Offices to be conferred As soon as his arrival was but known the greatest of the Court went forth to meet him and the King with testimonies of exceeding joy received him but this did not long endure For that young Prince was so ill bred and had among those people of inferiour quality who had kept him gotten such evill habits as that his presence served but to make you more lamented but above all the Queen could not endure that in your stead a beast should have such worship who by his filthy carriage had made himself contemptible to all the world The King commanded me to take him to my Government But finding in him no appearance of common sense and seeing him too old to form his mind to any good I did despair ever to make of him a civill man and you may think my dear children whether I finding in that poor Prince spirit nothing but thornes and briers instead of goodly seeds of vertue which I found in you I had great cause to be delighted with my charge The King who in that ill made Picture could not know himself made Pirobus a thousand times to swear he was the same which he had from him As for my self seeing I lost my labour and my time in teaching him besides the finall d fire or none at all I had thereto being afflicted as I was for losse of you and dreaming nothing â—â—sse than ere again to see you I aâ—th last resolv'd to go and seek ye out in what part of the World soever ye might be And that which more old god me thereto was that knowing all the secâ—eâ—s of Astrology and having by that Art foreseen that at two severall times ye should run hazard of a violent death I would make tryall if by my diligent and carefull seeking after you I might divert the mischiefs which the Sâ—â—rs had threatened yeâ— withall Besides my own affection thereunto I was incited by the general complaints of all the better sort of people in the Kingdom who could not without sorrow yield obedience to a Prince of so ill making and so evill doings and who already did begin to apprehend his future domination Therefore as soon I had known no news was to be hâ—d of you at sea and that as many as had gone after you were come again no wiser than they went remembring I had in secret heard your meditations on the Princess Orizâ—a's Picture and that I had often heard ye though in and out to name the word Narsinga I imagined you might be gone disguised thither and have passed over land that you might crosse through that unhappy Kingdom of Decan whereof I remembred to have heard you mention so many wonders of their gallantry But unfortunate as ye are by what I see ye have met nofavored me by my arrivall here at Visaporus just
for that his arrivall must 〈◊〉 have pleased them and rather have obliged the King of Cambaya to Aispatch Pirabus in Anaxanders behalf than on the part of young Alcidaris whose unfortunate birth a thousand times a day he cursed But continuing her discourse she asked him what assurance there was of the two Princes death which he lamented Madam answered Pirabus the common report hath instructed us in that unfortunate adventure they had in Visaporus where they so beastlike were condemn'd to death I know of each particular said Orazia but certainly they died not there T is true Madam replyed Pirobus that they died not in that conflict but when Visaporus was besirged where the fair Orixa died of her Feavor a little after the King of Decan her father was murthered in his flight by a serving-man and that that cruell end which was not yet come to her knowledge had caused that of the Queen her mother who sunk under the burden of her sorrow you have understood how the two Princes Araxus and Demonax finding themselves put hardly to it fearing the two staves who desired but their lives caused Anaxander and Piroxenus our Maslers to think fit to hazard a sally upon the enemy it being the only way they could attempt to avoid the funy of Rozinloan and Zabain who would reign without impediment Now we are told Madam of all those who escaped living from that fatal sally that our Masters were there slain together with the two Princes of Decan had it not been so we should undoubtedly have since heard of them but their deaths have been confirmed to us by so many that 't were too great mincredulicy to doubt thereof The beautiful Orazia seeing that this supposed death of Anaxander and Piroxenus wrought so real a sorrow in Pirobus did think it charity to tell him the truth however not willing to do any thing without Anaxanders consent and seeing that the King her father had yet three daies to remain in Baticalus where the Embassidour had stayed him she dispatched Saradin whom she could only trust and gave him charge to hasten to her Lover with this advertisement and to come back ere Pirobus who was to do part the day following should return for Gouzarat Meanwhile when the Embassadour taking his leave kissed her hand she could not forbear saying to him that she believed those he sorrowed son were alive Saradin immediately mounted on an excellent Courser galloped with all speed to his own home and finding the two Princes together for that Piroxenus since Anaxanders hurts had not stirred out of his sight he related to them the comming of Pirobus the subject of his Embassage and the discourse he entertain'd the Princess with which much astonish'd them and made them believe that poor Evander was dead on the way They deliberated sufficiently what to do hereupon and whether it were not best to discover themselves upon that occasion seeing that if they endured the Prince Alcidaris his sute it might be feared that the King of Cambaya resolute upon that match might in very few daies hasten the accomplishment On the other side Anaxander held it no way safe to declare himself so soon after that Combat which had so much displeased the King and did most wisely foresee that they might be blamed by an imputation that being by reason of the greatnesse of their bi ths assured from the punish neut they had most rashly broken am Edict which themselves ought to have preserved inviolable within the Dominions of a King whom they loved and to whom they sought to be allied â—t length after full consideration knowing hat Pirobus was the next day to depart from Baticalus they resolved that Piroxenus should go all that night to way-lay him at his first daies lodging and make himself privately known to him and trust with his discretion the truth of all their adventures Saradin took leave of them in this resolution and very glad that Anaxander did so well of his hurts there being hope that three weeks time would make him well returned to him Mistresse who on her side rejoyced infinitely as well for the recovery of her Love as for the purpose Piroxenus had taken As soon than as the Embassadour had received the Kings commands and the two Princesses of Narsinga Zeylan and that he was departed for Baticalus he was amazed to finde at his first journeys end the King his Masters Nephew the generous Prince of Citor expecting him he at first took it for an illusion which deceived his eyes but when by his face and action and speech he knew him to be Piroxenus he cast himself up â—n one knee and weeping for joy strove to have kissed his hand But Piroxenus raising him up venerable Pirobus said he my Cousin Anaxander and my self have understood the cause of your journey by a Gentleman whom the Princess Orazia sent unto us and because the request you have made the King of Narsinga is utterly opposite to the contentment of your young Prince who contrary to the belief you have had is still alive I am as well in my own as his behalf come hither to salute you and to acquaint you with the reasons obliging us to remain yet unknown in this Kingdom And here Piroxenus made him an ample rehearsall of all their adventures and whatever good or evill had befallen them since their sally out of Visaporus where so many men thought they had both come short The good Pirobus felt so great astonishment at this recitall and so great a joy as with much difficulty could he make him answer at length having recollected his senses and the liberty of his tongue Sir said he is it possible that two great Princes as ye are would for meer pastime endure so many troubles and crosses Ah how the gods have been favourable to us contrary to all expectation in restoring us the true props of our Crown and disengaging our spirits from the just fear we had to yield in subjection all our lives unto a vicious Prince And than he would have told him of the evill nature of Alcidaris but that Piroxenus let him know that they had understood the whole story Well than Sir said Pirohus what please you that I do will you have me go back and change my errant to Anaxanders behalf I think the King his father will never disavow it and the King of Narsinga who hath been a witnesse of his vallour will be glad to conclude the match without drawing breath and specially when I shall let him know his daughter whom he loves so dearly shall be desirous of it No father said Piroxenus seeing is hath so fallen out that sage Evander to whom we declared our intensions and whom we have desired to regain the Kings good graces for us hath met with some misfortune go you with speed and supply his room and obtain that the acts of our youth may be forgotten thanks to the gods we have committed nothing worthy to be
of all Atollon in the Province of Padipol but the poor Arbiran was slain when he had don a thousand memorable exploits of valour This our irreparable losse was so felt by all the Army and in such sort troubled it not knowing where to go for counsel and not daring yet to trust its conduct to my youth although I were Lieutenant to the Admiral that we returned without doing any thing and without so much as leaving a Garison in the place we had taken I bare with great impatience truly the sorrow of that losse and at my return I had the honor to be comforted by the Kings own mouth who better than any other knew the cause I had to be afflicted But alas it was not from him I look'd for the healthful remedies of my sensible griefs one only word from Lisimenaes mouth had comforted me not only for the losse of my friend but also of my heart in serving her and of all the troubles I endured for her But I was very far from the hope of that favor she shun'd me more than before and her scorns which I could not endure by little and little choack'd the respect which remained for her in my soul As though nature had made me sensible of what I was I thought in my self that I deserved a milder usage and if not as a Lover yet in the quality of Lisimenaes Knight I deserv'd a freer accesse unto her than she gave me I could not conceal my displeasure but gave my passion so much considence as it came to the Kings cars as I have since known who feigned to know nothing because I was so necessary for his service however he feared lest that affection might take too deep root in my heart and besides the extravagance which I might shew to all the Court I might do him ill service and make my self unworthy to command his Armies if I should lose the Mastery of my self He therefore removed from my sight that divine object upon a pretence favorable enough to his distrust for as after Arbirans death I had very ill handled the Maldives in two or three rancounters who were put to sea to repair their losses and former outrager they resolved to make one final attempt and having shut up all their Ports lest news might be brought us of their design they prepared a great and mighty Fleet to powre on us but they could not work so privately but that a Spie came to advertise us of their enterprizâ— and assur'd us that all that great preparation was for the City of Collombo which these Barbarians had a purpose to besiege by Sea and Land The King who commonly aboad in that Capital City of his Kingdom thought not his daughter which was his most precious jewel in too great a surety there insomuch as for delivering her from my troublesome sute and to secure her from the enemies in vasion whose threatnings he thought not â—iâ— to scorn he sent her to her Unkle the King of Narsinga to accompany her fair Cousin Orazia untill the troubles of Zeylan were over Judge Sir by what I have told you of my Love if this seperation must be grievous to me however I must bear it and constrain my self in the Kings sight who observ'd me more than he was wont to see if my spirit were chang'd or whether I had rigor enough to digest that trouble without distraction I was indeed very happy in my constancy to resist my resentment in that occasion where it may be any other than my self might have suffered himself to be overcome for the King who had a very good opinion of my courage believing I had quire forgotten that passion which kindled in my heart by Listmenaes presence only did me the honor with the general consent of the whole Army to make me heir of all Arbirans command As soon as I found the whole force of the Kingdom in my hands a new desire of glory entred my heart and seeing that our enemies were slow in comming to us and that they could not be a long time ready I perswaded the King to give way that I might go and assault them in the Isle of Bandos neer the City of Male where I had intelligence What more shall I say all succeeded happily unto me as you have known from others and in spire of all the King of Maldives strength who came with a powerful Army to hinder my design I took the Câ—stle of Bandos which was of greatest importance of all for keeping of his thirteen Provinces or Atollous whereof I became master within the spaâ—r of eighteen months and having defeated himself with all his power I compelled him to sâ— into the remotest parts of the Island of Palandurus I had pursued him even there but that I pirried the misery of that poor Prince who wanted no courage and who intruth would have done things worthy of his birth if fortune had but seconded his ambition I contented my self them to have augmented the King of Zeylans possessions by the whole extent of the Kingdom of the Maldives where when I had left good Garisons I returned Victorious to Tanadarus honored by the King and reverenc'd by all his Subjects who could not but admire at my prosperities and who imputed to me only that particular favour of the heavens to accomplish all my enterprizes Scarce had I the refreshment there of one whole month for we being advertised that Rozalcan and Zabain who to make themselves Lords of the Kingdom of Decan by a cruel and tyrannous usurpation had again dared to assault the King of Narfinga from whom we had had so great aids in all our Wars and necessities The King without expecting his defire of succours from him sent back all his Troops which had assisted him in the Conquest of the Maldives and having added half so many of the best Souldiers in his Army unto them which he must else have dismissed he commanded me to lead them and present them to his brother in law and that I should receive directions from him of what we had to do for his service It would be needlesse for me to tell you what I did after I had the honor done me to have the Command of the Army divided between the Prince Arontus and my self and after what manner I regain'd the Country of Canara which had been usurped from the King of Narsinga I know Sir that you can speak of all those matters as well as they that did them and that nothing since the death of Arontus hath passed whereof you have not had very faithful relations Wherefore I will return again to my Love and tell you some particulars of that sad passion which more than ever renewed in my soul at the sight of Lisimena whom I found in the Kingdom of Narsinga But I know not how I shall yet remember that ungrateful beauty who hath alwaies been so cruel to me and to oppresse me with misfortune and disgrace hath caus'd me
Hangmans hands These discourses assisted by the gracesful action of those two men of so excellent aspect began already to work some impression in the peoples minds there was not one civil man who with horror beheld not the injustice done those two brave courages and who would not willingly have hazarded his life for their safety but the sequel was of too much fear and the dread of the Kings anger restrained the most factious among them Meanwhile the Souldiers by the Captains command were gone to setch Ladders to assault our Princes on every side and try to take them alive that by an ignominious death the slaughter they had made on their companions might be revenged forbidding any arrows to be shot at them which had by some been done already when from the Palace gate-ward a great throng was seen to come and the King himself before them which began to cry on all sides grace but the confused noise the Souldiees made about the Scaffold hindred them from hearing that favorable cry when the King who caused room to be made by the Archers of his guard who went before him was come neer and had understood what Piroxenus had done he wondered and more again when he saw the two Princes defend themselves so couragiously against an armed multitude Hold cry'd he out to the Souldiers as soon as he could be heard all that were before him did the like in as much as at length those blood-thirsty men perceived the King neer them and heard his countermands His presence then having clamed the storm all held their peace and bent their eyes upon him to see what 't was he would command them and understand the reason of his comming personally there when turning towards the Princes who were not lesse astonish'd at his comming than the people and directing his speech to them spake in this manner I am so full of confusion Sirs for what I very lately have understood that whereas you think I am come to give you pardon I come to ask it of you and to conjure you likewise to forgive me a crime which I have ignorantly committed and whereof my passion only is guilty See said he to Prince Anaxander if you know this young Kinight Gentleman of the horse to the King your father t is he that hath unfolded me my errour and who hath freed me from a misfortune after which I never should have been comforted if the last act of the Tragedy had been performed on you When the Prince who was already well restored by the Kings mild language knew Falantus face he leapt from off the Scaffold and embraced him Piroxenus did the like then presently turning to the King In truth Sir said Anaxander you were a little too hasty and me thinks you should for me have made use of your accustomed wildom and have â—een whether the report spread in your Court concerning my extraction were true or no before you used so great severity as you have done However seeing the gods have pleas'd to stay the course of this misfortune we must forget what 's past and promise Sir that neither my Cousin nor my self will remain lesse affectionate to your service seeing it is our own fault we had not told you who we were Consider me Sirs said the King as your selves and judge if the report of your death being every where dispers'd and being lately renewed to me by the King of Cambayas Eâ—bassadour who assur'd me his Master had but one son only living call'd Alcidaris I had not cause to believe all to be lies that have been toldme of you verily after all those untruths accompanied with so many of your feignings and disguises I had very good reason to redouble my anger against you Anaxander when I understood from my daughters own mouth that without declaring your self to any body and passing but at an ordinary Knight you had taken the freedom to talk to her of love and contract a Marriage with her wihout my consent which had never been deny'd you had I known your birth You have certainly cause to be angry with your selves for the wrong which hath been done you but for what I have contributed I promise to repair the injury by so many testimonies of assection as you both shall henceforth have more reason to love than you have formerly had cause to hate me But in regard this is no proper place for complements le ts go together to the Palace and make my Daughter partake of our joy and first of all le ts thank the gods which have delivered you from the imminent danger threatned you by you own fault and have sent thi Knight of Cambaya at the very minute to secure your lives At these words the Princes redoubled their embraces of Falantus and truly they had great reason so to do as he who by his incredble diligence became their redeemer having in four daies and as many nights rid more than two hundred leagnes whereto that excellent horse very much contributed which he took with him whereon without stop he dispatched eight or nine Posts by this means he arrived at the time he should to save their lives so dear to the King his Master and had he more delai'd undoubtedly he had in vain perform'd that journey for the two generous Princeâ— had been forc'd to yield to the power of so great a number of Souldiers as were ready to assault them every where They departed then from that place to go directly to the Temple and in the meanwhile the little Ariston who had seen all these passages went before to advertise his Mistresse whom he found laid on a little bed in her Closet wholly over come with sorrow and already threatning her fair bosome with the Dagger from which she hoped all her remedy As soon as she saw the Page come in she rose up and taking the Dagger in her hand Is' t done my friend said she is Ariomant dead No Madam answer'd he the King himself came and delivered him and did him all manner of honor there is some mystery in the matter which I know not for I understood by the confused noise which I heard from the middle of the place that the offender was the King of Cambayaes son he told her after what Piroxenus had done and the memorable exploits they both perform'd upon the Scaffold The Princesse transported with that news which she well enough understood could not forbear embracing the little Ariston and was a quarter of an hour and more in a kinde of trouble truly he did well to come and prepare her mind for that joy for if at first it had come to her from the Kings mouth she could never have forborne to have shewn her ravishment whereas she had the time to compose her self to receive that pleasure without disquiet and to accompany her countenance with a modest coldnesse when her father came As soon as he had thank'd the gods he entred the Princesse chamber followed by
and to hear the story of your life and matters which but from your self she cannot learn Wonder not Sir said he you have seen me formerly a servant to Arontus and my long and known fidelity in several affairs has made me acceptable to the Princesse who hath done me the honor to think me fit to exercise an office in her house which by the death of her chief Squire fell vacant besides she hath thought fit to open me her heart and tell me how she loves you which she hath Inherited from her Brother who so dearly tendred you come go with me if you desire to know more for I am only charged to bring you where she is and have detain'd you with my past discourse that you might only trust my faith and word Sure Ariomants passion must have been extream seeing his heart which till that time seemed insensible or at least ordinary in its joy appeared now a long time in his countenance disordered by the alteration which that pleasing news had caused in him we may from thence collect that Love is the most tickling and delicate of all the motions of the soul for commonly the greatest courages are most indifferent to every other joy than those which come from the successes of their Loves When our brave Heroe was recovered from his transport he thank'd the faithful Saradin for having by his care delivered him from so great trouble and follow'd him alone without the least distrust unto the little Garden of Fountains where the amorous Princesse did expect him The Sun already had been set an hour or more and the Moon being about the Full without offence of any Cloud began to shine when the fair Orazia as wel to take the free contentment of the freshness of so fair and clear a night as without hinderance to give access unto her Lover walked alone save with the Princess of Zeilan in the little Garden which accompanied their neighbouring privacies and which was common to them both wherein they had forbidden any body to be seen Although she with impatience look'd for Ariomant she could not choose but be surprised at his comming she stay'd her in a verdant Parlor and dewed with a Christall Fountain which being plac'd against the wall ran out into the City for there it was that Saradin must bring him in for fear least in the walk some of the Princess houshold might discover him because their windows lookt into the Garden No sooner had that lovely Prince appeared to her eyes by whom he was as much beloved as he loved but Love and Joy transporting him he kneel'd and after having kist her hand Madam said he is it possible that you have thought me worthy of so great a happiness and glory hold me no longer in suspence tell me ah tell me if my eyes deceive me or whether it be a reall act of my good fortune which presents me to you His wonder did not so much blind him but he knew his duty towards Lisimena wherefore he rose immediatly to give her salutations with as great civility as gracefulness before he thus was answered by Orazia Most generous Prince said she you can no longer hide you from me The gods have granted me discovery of part of your illustrious birth and surely being as you are the real proofs you shall here receive of my affection esteem wil be but much below your merit do not I pray you therefore feign before this Princess whose perfect union with me gives us both but one desire to tell me that at full which but in part has yet arriv'd my knowledge Tell me of all the fortunes you have ran before your comming hither and above all conceal not from me the chief cause that guided you into these parts Madam replyed Ariomant since for the glory of us mortals you are here below and since you are by all acknowledg'd for a most visible divinity on earth I cannot wonder at your knowledge of me Goddesses cannot be ignorant of any thing they pierce into ment hearts and wills And being so how comes it Madam you demand of me the cause that brought me hither can it be possible that you who have read o're my heart have not found there your Picture drawn by Cupids hand In truth I thought whiles we aboad at Bisnagar I had made that doubt clear enough and fear'd I had thereby transgressed For though from that time you had known the truth of my extraction I ought not for all that so much to hazard me as to declare my love unto you nor should have had a ground to flatter me with any hope I knew it must be needs some God that should enjoy you and that never any such as you resemble subject themselves except in antient stories to the love of mortall men Their complements had longer lasted if an accident had not prevented them The King did use to visit his daughter the Princess twice or thrice a week in her retirement and sometimes used to walk with her in her little Garden this caused Saradin whose care provided for all chances after he had left our Lovers together to play the sentinell not fearing after so strict charge was given that any save the King would venture to come in and when he saw that his Majesty not finding Orazia in her chamber went towards the Garden he ran before him to give notice of it to them This newes somewhat troubled the company who after Orazia had commanded Ariomant to be next evening with his deer Callistenus at the same place were fain for that time to divide themselves This visit though she loved her Father very well was nothing acceptable for she impatiently desired to know his name and quallity whom yet she knew but by the name of Ariomant although indeed she was not ignorant that he was born a Prince besides that Ariomant supposing she had know his whole extraction was wonderfully doubtfull who should have instructed her not daring to imagine that Arontus had in dying faild his promise for he had ever promised him and Callistenus too that he would never make them known save to his Sister Orazia till themselves were fit and in condition to appear before the King of Narsingus as their qualities required and death preventing him he thought as was most likely that he had committed that secret to the faithfull Saradin doubtfull however he retired as then resolved to be next night in due obedience to his Mistresses commands where now they met and very shortly after to embarque himself for Cambaye that with as much speed as may be he might return with Callistenus who had like interest to come back with him in a pompous train and fashion worthy of their royall greatness Scarce had he set his foot within his lodging but his dear Callistenus meeting him knew by hit eyes the pleasure that took up his heart and presently he found himself engaged to tell him of his sweet adventure which better to
communicate they lay that night together which they spent in pleasing talk till next day administred more ample cause of joy for though this pleasure seemed to have respect alone to Ariomant Callistenus who so intirely loved him participated also of it and so much as very neer to shew the same impatience and desire If now Prince Ariomant for his part languisht in that amorous expectation The fair Orazia lived in a sweet unquietness on hers little that night she rested and the dry once come she numbred every hour and minute of the same she thought a thousand times the sun had slack'd his wonted course and dream'd on nothing but the silence of a night more happy than the former that with more conveniency she might again behold him whose gracefulness and sweet behaviour form'd themselves a thousand times that day to her imagination Her wishes when the Sun had set were granted for insteed thereof she saw her deerest Ariomant appear whose sight was more pleasing unto her eyes and warmth more acceptable to her soul he with his friend thought first to have been at the place but found himself prevented by the Princess great impatience who had scarce given Lisimena time to end her Supper for her hast to draw her to that pleasing and delightfull place She was of brown but clear complexion as all the beauties commonly of Asia are But in all Europe was not found a favour more exact nor delicate than hers she had no part of all her face which was not accompanied with speciall graces and eyes which for their sweetness might be feared had yet more boldness to acquire mens hearts than others When she went to find the Princess Lisimena in her Chamber she had cast carelesly about her a kind of Indian garment of black Sattin without any other Ornament than a cutwork very delicate wherewith her smock was edged and turn'd back upon her garment about her neck she only wore a bobbin her hair was black and curl'd by nature into slaves hung in some places on her neck whose lustre was the more set off and though it was in careless manner that it hung yet seem'd it not without a kind of art 'T is true her mourning did require more modesty than at that time her habit shew'd and yet did Lisimena think her too severe Sister said she so much mourning does not become you well on this occasion where nothing but content should be exprest and therewithall rather in jest than earnest she untied her string from her neck and in its room hung on a string of costly Pearl which lay upon her Table next under colour of the heat which was not over she trust her foresleeves up unto her elbowes and delivered her a rich Bracelet of Diamonds which she wore her self pull'd off her Gloves that her fair hands might shew themselves and took away the Handkerchief that hid her neck and would not conceal from Ariomant a part of her perfections After this manner Lisimena accompanied her deer Orazia to her closet wraped with leaves without more company than little Aquilant whom they distrusted not and bore his Mistress train for that she had not time enough for haste to make her self unready A very little time had they been there when Ariomant together with his faithfull friend Callistenus slid secretly into the door which lay towards the City and whereof he had the key delivered him Many and happy were the complements that past on either side But though there be no excellency wherewith they were not accompanyed and all their words selected such as love form'd in their mouths delighting to propose and answer for our Lovers I forbear repeating of them lest the Readers take offence and because Ariomant perceiv'd by Orazia's discourse that she yet knew not his extraction and that she long'd to know it from his mouth which he would gladly have excused if manners would have let him But seeing no way how he could refuse at length being all four sat and that their silence witnessed their defires to hear he thus began to say THE HISTORY OF ANAXANDER AND OF ORAZIA The second BOOK MOst fair and vertuous Princess seeing you desire to know who I am and from my own mouth to learn the History of mine and the companion of my misfortunes my deer Friend Callistenus his Life I am most willing to obey you and although our Crosses have been great and perillous our voyage more than common yet find I more contentment than displeasure in reflecting on them when I call to mind how you are the sole object of our hazards and that for your love only we have undertaken them But ere I ship me in that long discourse 't is fit I justifie the good opinion you have of my birth that if our merits be not equall you may at leastwise find our qualities as like as our affections and that you may be able to make good the honour you have done me to accept my service ere you very well had known me It cannot be but you have often heard of Alcidaris who being descended from the great Tamberlin and only remainder of his race hath to the Empire of Cambaye joyn'd the Kingdoms of Dulcinde Candahar and Mandao and who at present with your Father shares the Soveraignty of all the Indes From him 't is Madame whence I derive my self who hath bred me in the hope of all his Kingdomes which surely I should scorn but for the hope I have to reign in them one day with you Hereat the Princess Orazia could not conceal her joy of heart to be beloved by so great a Prince but interrupting him did say that both the greatnesse and deservings of Alcidaris were as the Sun so known unto her But reply'd Ariomant because we are not so neer neighbours but that many Hills and Rivers separate us and for it may be you have never heard of all the passages of my Fathers Life which do concern my Story I must briefly tell you that this Prince at five and twenty yeares of age was Heir unto the Kingdome of Guzarat which you call otherwise Cambaye he married more for policy of state than force of love the Princess Berenica who was only daughter and heir unto the King of Candahar and of Mandao his neighbour and his tributary who shortly after died and by that match enlarged his limits to the Northern parts even to the Mountain of Nogrocot which the Greeks call Paropamisse from whence the famous River Indus springs which but for only watering our Lands gives name to all the Indes But this unhappy Queen who did Idolatrise her Husbands vertues liv'd but a short time with him after her fathers death but on whole year wherein she gave him all imaginable proofes of perfect love and so far forth as having in her self free power she gave him be it whether the child wherewith she went did live or otherwise her two fair Crowns and just as soon as she