Disguise to the Prison to be a Witness unto their Discourses and to relish the whole Pleasure of them This proposition did startle the Reverend Father well knowing that she should hear nothing there but what would be contrary to those hopes which he had given her He oppos'd himself as much as he could to that Design setting before her the evident danger unto which she should expose her self which besides would not have a good effect on the Pilgrim's Mind of which she was to manage well the value if she would be belov'd of him in good earnest but all those Reasons and many more which he told her to draw himself out of the Bryars were not of force to remove her from that design They were of no value with a Woman whose Soul was fill'd with fiery transports Father I know said she not giving ear to half what he said all that you can say to me and I should know what I had to do in this Case if in the condition I am I were capable of some Reflections or Reasons But when one loves as I do nothing but the desires of the Heart are hearkned unto and it would be fruitless to endeavour the disswading me from it for I can follow no other Counsel and without any further reasoning on the case since it is my business and that you are willing to serve me in it I desire you to get me in readiness against Night one of your Novices Garments and not to trouble your self any farther in the business for though I should but see this Pilgrim I shall be extremely recompensed for the pains I shall have taken Father Andrew seeing that there was no hopes of making her change her resolution did promise to perform whatsoever she should desire though he foresaw the danger that there was for them both in it But Friars in all businesses have always a back door open to get out at He went to his Convent where he soon fitted himself with a Novices Habit about the Ladies stature which he had conveyed into the Palace When the hour was come Donna Barbara fail'd not to go to his Chamber to prepare her self for the Masquerade with as much earnestness as Father Andrew was backwards but he was forc'd to resolve upon it and for that time to officiate to the Lady who was not very well acquainted with that Jacobin Equipage in the Place of a Valet de Chambre during his Employ he had here and there some little pleasures and his new Office giving him somewhat more of Liberty than that of a Spiritual Director would afford him he made good use of it for it is customary with Monks to make an advantage of all things and this who was a most perfect one did make pretty good use of his Rights in putting that Gown and Frock on the Sennora Barbara of whom he made the prittyest little Friar that ever was in the Novitiat if all this was without Temptaion I shall not tell Finally all being ready they went out of the Chamber and marched on without noise or light towards the red Tower and with so good fortune as to meet with no Person in the Palace that did speak to them Camille's restraint being not so extraordinary strict Father Andrew had leave through Donna Barbara's Order to see him at what hour he pleas'd so that it was not difficult for them to get in they found the Pilgrim lying on his Bed reading in a Book a kind of Consolation in his Afflictions Well Father said he to the Confessor so soon as he saw him appear have you no better News for me than those which you have brought me hitherto and shall I have Justice done me or must I dye in this Prison I have already told you Sir reply'd he making him sign that there was a Novice after him of whom they should be wary it lies in you to go out of it and to be the happiest of all Men. Happy After what manner replyed Camille who thought there was no great danger in speaking before a young Brother in imploring the assistance of a Person that is peradventure the sole cause of all my Evil Of a Woman Yea but of such a Woman interrupted the Father still making sign that has a great esteem and affection for you that knows your worth and that doubtless deserves that you should consider her not as your Enemy or the cause of your misfortune towards which she has never contributed but as a Lady that concerns her self in your affairs and that would inform you what an interest she has in them I know more on that subject Father reply'd the Pilgrim who did not comprehend to what purpose those signs were made than you can tell me and in a word if you would oblige me never speak more of her to me To which Father Andrew who was in a violent sweat to hear him speak in that manner reply'd But this Morning Sir you were not in this Mind and I found you in my Opinion more full of acknowledgments towards a Person that you cannot hate without ingratitude You deceive you self Father reply'd Camille who was wondring at the Fathers Discourse as much as at his signs I am no Changling and what I tell you now I did both think and say in the Morning you know that I love and tho' my Heart should be capable of Perfidiousness it there he made a stop perceiving that the little Novice that was drawn nearer them did look stedfastly in his Face with a Countenance that did amaze him Go on thou cruel one said the little Brother to him and declare that I should deserve nothing though I should act all that can be imagined for thee Camille who would never have known Donna Barbara under such a Dress did fall into the greatest amazement in the World when he heard her voice He could scarce believe his own Eyes examining her from Head to Foot Yes look said she and see what Love makes me do for thee maugre all thy scorns what I have done hitherto is very inconsiderable but I come now to conclude my ruin for the most ungrateful of all Men. Alas Madam reply'd Camille it is me that you ruin and that you render miserable How miserable speak reply'd she canst thou complain but of being too much beloved is there any Person of worth in the World that would say so much of the meanest of Women thou troublest thy self about my cares thou thinkest that it would be a shame to thee to be obliged to me for thy life and preferrest thy Prison to Liberty only because that it is offer'd thee by me The passionate and winning manner that the amorous Donna Barbara did use in her reproaches to her Pilgrim certainly there was no Heart but what would be somewhat mov'd at it and Camille whose Heart was not wholly insensible was touch'd with compassion and did endeavour to excuse himself on the respect which he owed to the Governour to
were in the Candlesticks and put in theirs in their stead as soon as they were lighted they presently observ'd they burnt dimmer than ordinary but this was no news yet the good Sister who thought they were her handy-work impatient to see them cast so dull a light would needs mend one of them and take off a little Wax that was melted about it By this time the Powder took fire and went off like a Gun the poor Nun fell flat on her back and the rest were so amaz'd they were ready to run away One of the boldest of them runing in to help the distressed Surintendant of the Choire the other Candle fir'd with more noise than the former this put the poor Nuns into a perfect Confusion the fearful runaway the rest staid to help their Companions only Christina and her Friend were pleased with the disorder and laught as if they would burst The Morrow they held many Arguments about the accident most were of opinion the Devil had a hand in it and that the Lights were bewitch'd The Nun Surintendant of the Choire would no longer meddle with them and the Superiour was forced to make use of her old Chandler again The Marchioness d' Aytona being alone by reason of her Husbands absence at Madrid to attend his imployments there had long but in vain wish'd to have Christina at her House and being oblig'd on the Morrow for the Country she begg'd her company so earnestly it was not in her power to refuse her The Spanish Ladies have commonly as little divertisement in the Country as in Town being generally shut up in their Chambers and receive no Visits but from their near Kindred The Marquess d' Osseyra made so good use of his privilege of Brother that he went every day to see his Sister though not so much to complement her as to have a sight of Christina with whom he was Charm'd In one of his Visits he had the opportunity to declare his passion for her and let her know the violence of it in the tenderest expressions assuring her it should last while he lived Christina interrupting him intreated him to quit his Passion and think no more of Love since in the condition she was in there was reason to believe he intended to make her his Mistress and could not have any thoughts of Marrying a Stranger being utterly unaquainted with her Quality and Fortune But the Amorous Marquess having sworn several times he would Marry her when she pleas'd though Christina was of all persons the least inclin'd to Love to satisfie him she told him if he would continue in the same mind two years that she might be convinc'd he had no ill design she would allow him the liberty to hope that in the mean time she expected it as an Evidence of his Love to say no more of it but rest satisfied with her Promise The Marquess had that respect for her that he forthwith retir'd for fear of displeasing her and resolv'd to keep silent the Passion he had for her two years in hopes by so signal obedience to win upon and master the insensibility of his Mistress The Marchioness had sent for a Fowler who had the Reputation of the best Marks-man in Spain One day in complaisance to Christina she went out in her Coach to see the skill of the Fowler who made five shots at Partridges flying and kill'd but two however he was admir'd so few there are in Spain that shoot flying Christina slighting the pretended skill of the Fowler lighted out of the Coach and taking the Marquiss d'Osseyra's Gun made ready to shoot the first Partridge that sprung By good fortune they put up a Covey Christina shot and kill'd three of them and unconcern'd at the Applause of the Spectators new-charg'd her Gun and having observ'd the Partridges light in two several places she ordered two should be sprung one from either place and kill'd both with two several shots The Marchioness and her Brother could scarce believe what they saw however they made her get into the Coach again fearing so violent an Exercise might incommode her and brought her back in a manner against her will About this time Christina received Letters from Bearn which brought her News of the Death of her Father and the great desire her Mother had to see her This oblig'd her to pray the Marchioness to bring her back to Saragosa to speak with her Kinsman about the present condition of her Affairs At her return she was visited by most that knew her Amongst the rest her Ancient Comrades in the University pretended a right to make Love to her Don Philip de Palefox formerly mentioned was one of those who appear'd most concern'd to let her know they had more then ordinary kindness for her Amidst all these pretenders she preserv'd her usual indifferency Don Philip not discourag'd by the small Progress of his Amours fancy'd he might better please her with a Serenade which he gave her Christina who was not of the humour of the Spanish Ladies who all love this kind of Entertainment was so angry at the noise it made in the Street where two or three Persons were abus'd on this occasion that she would not see Don Philip any more nor appear to any person no not to the Marquess who lov'd her with the greatest respect Being thus depriv'd of the sight of her and not able to bear so killing a loss he inquir'd and learnt the cause of her anger and resolved to demand satisfaction from Don Philip and did it with a great deal of courage but so little success that he received two dangerous Wounds and lay at the Mercy of his Rival who taking his advantage requir'd him to quit all pretence to Christina The Marquess chusing rather to lose his life than his Mistress Don Philip disarm'd and left him The Marchioness d' Osseyra seeing her Son in that condition knowing Christina was the cause of the Quarrel was extreamly offended with her The Marchioness d' Aytona came to her endeavouring to comfort and divert her from the violent resolutions she would have taken against Christina but could not prevail with her to forbear sending Don Lorenzo word that if Christina staid longer in Spain she would set fire on his House Christina who was preparing for her return hastened her Journey for Bearn and coming home was received by her Mother with a great deal of joy as far as the different Passions of Joy for sight of her beloved Daughter and sorrow for her Son would allow her All the Persons of Quality in that Country complemented her at her return and several thought her so Amiable that in less than a Month she had many very advantageous Proposals of Marriage Her Mother had partly made a Promise of her to a Gentleman one of the most considerable in those parts But Christina who lov'd her liberty whether she had a secret inclination for the Marquess or a natural aversion from Marriage declar'd
the Campaign and observing he took particular Notice of him and that it would be impossible to avoid Discovery long went one day to his Quarters and finding him alone told him he desired to be acquainted with him and could do no less to requite the desire he had exprest on two or three occasions to contract a Friendship with him Marmon was strangely surpriz'd at the Voice his Heart telling him presently 't was Christina spoke to him though his reason could hardly give him leave to believe it St. Aubin smil'd which put Marmon out of doubt May I credit my Eyes says he or is it an illusion St. Aubin interrupting him declared the motives for the resolution he had taken charging him at his peril not to discover him and promising to be very sensible of the discretion he should shew on this occasion and after they should have both gain'd credit in the service they would retire together and enjoy one another the rest of their Days Marmon who knew her humour thought it to no purpose to endeavour making her alter her resolution told her It was a resolution worthy a noble Soul He added a thousand obliging expressions and so very kind St. Aubin told him he must alter his Language and call him Cousin which he promis'd to do and observ'd it so carefully that their Correspondency was never perceived The Musqueteers within few Days followed the King to Flanders the Campaign being that of the taking of Limburg was so lamentably wet it would have discourag'd any but St. Aubin from being a Soldier Marmon who came often to see him as his Cousin having entred his Tent found him so weary he could not forbear telling him how troubled he was to see him drudge in that hard service the fatigues wherof the ablest Men were scarce able to endure His discourse on this Subject was so tender and passionate that a Soldier who overheard them through the Tent-Cloths came briskly in and gave them cause by his expressions to believe he suspected the words he had heard Marmon speak could not be address'd but to a Maid St. Aubin perceiving it answered his foolish Cousin there was so deeply in Love he could not abstain from discoursing of it and repeating to him what he had said to his Mistress and with that turning to Marmon I would advise you Cousin to write to her saith St. Aubin Marmon answer'd Matters were not yet ripe for writing and he durst not do it the Soldier believed all this true and presently went out St. Aubin took that occasion to represent to Marmon the Inconveniences might happen if he us'd discourse of that Nature and charg'd him not to speak a word to him during the Campaign but as to his Cousin The News about this time was that the Enemies fearing the approach of the K marched further off and retir'd into their Countries giving out to amuse the People they would go besiege Maestricht This obliged his Majesty to send thither a detachment of his Musqueteers under the command of Monsieur Jauvelle those Gallants being all willing to go upon that service in hopes to see the Enemy quickly To prevent discontent the King was oblig'd to take the fourth Man of every rank till they made up the number desir'd It was St. Aubin's Fortune to be detach'd among the rest and Marmon's to be left behind he ran to the first Company to enquire how his Cousin sped and to his utter vexation heard he was of the number of the detach'd Marmon unwilling to part with him pray'd several of his Comrades to give him their place pretending he had business of Consequence with a Captain of the Garrison Maestricht But he was so unfortunate or those Companies were composed of young Gentlemen so passionately ambitious of Honour he could not find one willing to lose so promising an occasion to signalize himself Part they must and Marmon remained under such a consternation nothing for a long time could comfort him The mean time the detachment arriv'd at Maestricht where the Marshal d' Estrade joyfully receiv'd them tho' till then no Soldiers had been quartered with the principal Burgers on this occasion no Man was exempted An Officer of the Town who gave out the billets to take away all cause of complaint said he would quarter a Musqueteer at his House And having spy'd St. Aubin slipt into his hand a billet for his House fancying a young Man so handsome could not but be of a very quiet temper and complying humour This Burgher was very rich and had to Wife one of the handsomest Women of the Town and a Sister whose Beauty and Fortune had made a great number of Officers her Servants These Women having heard those of their acquaintance tell of the disorders Soldiers usually commit in their quarters trembled at the thoughts of having one in their House But they must have one quarter'd with them and they had taken their Fortune for the Man and resolved to use him the best they could St. Aubin coming to their House with a Billet in his Hand they came down to receive him and were so pleasingly surpriz'd with the sight of him capable to move the most indifferent to have kindness for him that they could not forbear viewing him with astonishment and applauding in their Hearts their very good Fortune His obliging way of Discourse and the excuses he made that he was forc'd to trouble them absolutely gain'd him their Hearts And to let him presently see the esteem they had for him they gave him the best Chamber in the House tho' design'd for another It was very richly furnish'd and St. Aubin after long excuses the contrary was forced to lie there The Master of the House having made provision of some Bottles of Rhenish Wine to Welcome his new Guest was angry to find him as sober at Table as modest every where else St. Aubin had not been two days there but his Hostess was desperately in Love with him Her Sister Rachel had very kind thoughts for him and having twice or thrice in his Company resolved to make Conquest of him her Suitors had so often told her she was amiable and her Glass confirm'd it so well that she doubted not of success when she should apply her self to gain Love These two fair Ones had no other discourse but of the new Beauties they discover'd every moment in the face and wit of their new Guest and he very glad of so pretty an amusement spent whole days at home to divert himself with them at some little witty Games he taught them with a penalty impos'd on those who did not well They took occasion to commend his Complaisance before the Master of the House who was ravish'd to find his Guest so well dispos'd as to apply himself for their divertisement And when his Wife was out at play he never fail'd for her penalty to require her to kiss the Musqueteer which she was so pleas'd with she never minded her
would gladly have had this Language of the Eyes changed into an entertainment of the mouth but it was too much to be fear'd that they would have been heard And the Lady who did fear to be surpriz'd by her Guardians or Husband durst not make any longer stay at the Window Camille who did follow her every where with his Eyes and Heart did retire presently also to his former Port where he did behold the Marchioness who was got to bed again who not imagining to be observed lay in such a posture by reason of the great heat of the Season as was capable to kill a man with Love Neck Breast Arms Feet Legs in fine all the most Beatiful and Charming things in the World were expos'd at the mercy of our Pilgrim's Eyes who at this sight did quickly lose the rest of his liberty Presently after her Women came in to dress her and Camille who had receiv'd as much as he wanted ritired for Fear that amongst so many Eyes there might be some that may light accidentally upon his Peep-hole which would spoil all Imagining also that in so great a Bustle of Women he should have but an imperfect View of the Lady Never any Man so pleas'd as he if his good Fortune had lasted but some time longer but they still approached nearer Barcellona and consequently of that moment which was to part 'em and that would peradventure make him lose for ever the sight of what he so passionately loved Good Gods would he frequently cry out sighing some Blasts of a contrary Wind His Prayers were not heard Time prest upon them and finally there must be a resolution taken to speak out some way whereby he might be understood he found some Paper Pen and Ink and without further Delay he wrote some Italian Verses to this purpose When by a too Rigorous Fate Most Beauteous Lady your curst Mate Shall force you through his jealous Rage To free your self I dare engage By a certain Am'rous Art When just y 're ready to depart To have a Pilgrim wait at hand In Obedience t' your Command Having finish'd his Verses he waited till he saw no body in the Ladies Chamber and having rolled up the Paper he put it through the hole which heing just in the Ladies sight could not fail of drawing her Eyes upon it She was at first surpriz'd at the Novelty thereof which caus'd her to blush extremely not doubting but it was exposed there by that Cavalier which she had seen at the Window and whose good Mien had raised in her a great Curiosity to know what he was But when she reflected on those advantages which he might have made use of by means of that hole during the freedom which she had taken all the time she had been in that Cabin it wanted but little that an Anger mixt with Bashfulness did not produce some kind of Hatred against a Man of whom she had so little Knowledge She was strangely busied in her Thoughts and knew not what to resolve mean time the Paper which she saw to wag continually giving her an extream desire to see what it might be and fearing on the other hand that somebody would come into the Cabin her Anger and Scruples were forc'd to give place her Curiosity she approached took the Note looked through the hole and did see a Pilgrim whose good Mien did somewhat appease her she presently withdrew and having seated her self again upon her Bed she unfolded the Paper with a Mind strangely taken up with this Adventure In such a Condition as she was at that time evil-intreated by an Husband which she had never lov'd and who prepared himself to make her suffer new Afflictions in a Countrey where Women are yet greater Slaves than in that from whence she came nothing could be offered that could bring her more Content than that which the Pilgrim did write Till then she had not been a moment without wishing that the Vessel might split upon the Coast or that it might fall into the Hands of the Turk rather than arrive in Spain and never ceased her Tears since she had seen Land And yet when the Heavens grant her her desires in a more favourable manner than she had required and when she despair'd of making Ship-wrack or falling into the Pirats Hands being almost at the Gates of Barcellona she tremblingly looks upon the Succour which is offer'd her she staggers in her Resolution she loses her Courage and fears to employ a Man that hath nothing in his Person but what assures and gives her to understand that he is a gallant Person Of truth she was not long in those Irresolutions having cast her sight upon Spain and made some reflections upon the unhappy Life which she was going to lead there she presently resolv'd to give her self up to the Conduct of a Person that seemed to be sent to her by Heaven for that purpose She would willingly have signify'd so much to him but it was long since all that belong'd to writing was forbid her and one of her Women being come into her Cabin neither could she come near unto the little Hole in which seeing the generous Pilgrim's Eye to glitter she contented her self in giving him to understand with such signs as the Italians are very expert in that she did very much like and approve of the Tender of his Services and that he should not be unhappy if he could take her out of that deplorable Condition to which she was reduced At last Camille who stood most attentively examining even the very least twinkling of an Eye did interpret it after this manner and it may be imagined that the Pilgrim's apprehension might very well reach as far as the Ladies dumb Discourse Never was Lover so pleas'd with himself as he He would not have chang'd his Fortune for a Monarch's Diadem no not for the Pope's Triple Crown The least Look a kind Gesture or some favourable Sign did afford him more Content than the whole Empire of the World would give unto the most ambitious of Kings This pretty sport lasted till they were ready to enter into the Port of Barcelona when the Lady being left a moment alone drew near unto him and told him in a low Voice that she had apprehended what he had writ that she believ'd him a Man of honourable Principles and even something more than what he appear'd to be under that Pilgrim's Habit and that if he could deliver her from the Tyranny of a Jealous Husband and were a person that would receive some recompence for so great a service she did assure him that he should have cause to be satisfied for having perform'd so generous an Action And not giving him time to reply fearing incessantly to be surpriz'd she desired him to find out some means by which she might write or speak to him when arriv'd at Barcelona and ending with these words she put through the hole one of her Fingers on which she had a very
cause the sooner you will feel the effects of my bounty which I assure you shall extend to the making you happy the residue of your days I wanted but a Woman to assist me in my resolutions and now I have thee I shall willingly embrace the succour and assistance which the Pilgrim does offer me I did fear before to fall alone into the hands of a young man who was an absolute Stranger to me and might peradventure take all the advantages that could be against me and expect such rewards as virtue would forbid me to give but now I will first make my own terms and oblige him to put me into those hands that I shall think fit for my design being not to wholly abandon my Husband but to retire from his passions till by some Friends a better understanding is wrought between us and so return to him again if my deliverer should require more of me than my honour would permit me to allow of I should let him know his mistake and this I have some reasons to fear from his carriage in his late visit under the habit of a Physician Here Zora did reiterate her Protestations assuring the Marchioness that she needed but to command and she should find how readily she would obey even with the hazzard of her Life I am satisfied continued the Marchioness and to confirm it to you prepare your self to follow the Doctor so soon as he shall return for I will send you after him with a Letter in which I will declare my mind to him and make my own conditions before I put my self into his hands and you shall bring me back a full and positive answer Zora told the Marchioness that she would presently ask the Marquess leave to go forth to see a Kinswoman of hers that liv'd in Town and that under that pretence she would wait on the Doctor This being concluded on the Marchioness bid her go call in her fellow Servant to stay by her while she should go get her Pen Ink and Paper and convey it into her Closet where she would go and write the Letter to the Pilgrim under pretence of going to her devotions Zora being gone and the other Woman come in her place the Marchioness laid her self upon her Bed again not so much to sleep as to reflect upon Camille's boldness She fear'd that that Person who had the confidence to kiss her so soon as he came near her while her Husband and her Guardians were in the Chamber would attempt more if he should once have her in his possession and without company and her apprehensions did so increase the more she did think on it that without that assistance which she did expect from the Convert Zora she had not so much as writ to the Pilgrim further than just to let him know that her mind was alter'd and therefore had no further occasion of his assistance but she thought that through Zora's aid she might so order things as to continue Mistress of her self though got from her Husband by the Pilgrim's help especially making her conditions with him before-hand therefore so soon as Zora was return'd and had made her signs that the writing tools were in a readiness the Marchioness pretending to go to her Prayers did lock her self up in her Closet where she wrote the Pilgrim She had but just ended her Letter when the Woman knockt at her Closet Door and told her that the Doctor had sent something for her to take She presently came out saying that she was much better than she had been in the morning and that she hop'd the worst was past for that present but that however she would take something for two or three days to prevent a return and therefore desired that the Doctor should come again at Night to give her a visit Father Andrew who was now the Doctors man gave the Marchioness a Bottle of Julep and a Paper in which was written how she was to take it and told the Marchioness that his Master had commanded him to assure her he would give her a visit at night to learn how her remedy did agree with her The Marchioness having something to say to the Doctors Man she sent the Woman out of the Chamber of an errand bidding her send in her fellow Servant in the mean time the Woman was no sooner gone out and the other come in but the Marchioness told the good Father that Zora was become one of them that she would send her to the Pilgrim with a Letter before he should come to her at night to inform him of some matters that therefore he should presently tell her where their Lodgings were The Father had but just inform'd her when the Marquess was heard coming to the Chamber-Door which made them to change their discourse the Marquess enter'd and seeing the Doctors Man and the Julep Bottle standing upon the Table What said he is this what the Doctor has order'd for my Wife to take and what direction has she Father Andrew who was more fearful of being known by his voice than by being seen because that so soon as they had heard the Marquess coming they had drawn the Window Curtains and gone to the darkest part of the room he was wiping his face in lieu of answering which made the Marchioness who guest at the cause of his silence to answer that he had given her directions Let 's see them said the Marquess It was only by word of Mouth replyed the Marchioness I am of opinion said the Marquess that my Wife should be blooded and that it should have been the first thing should have been done I am sure she wants it her blood is hot enough too hot I have reason to fear The Marchioness not taking the least notice of what the Marquess had said made answer that she would have the man return presently to his Master and desire him to come again so soon as he could and then that they should consult about it With this the Doctor 's man very glad of this message scrap'd a Leg and did not stay to be bid once again presently the Woman that the Marchioness had sent out came in and told the Marquess that there was some-body without that would speak with him This made him go see who it was mean time the Marchioness under pretence to go make an end of her Devotions return'd into her Closet where having open'd the Papers of Directions she found writ as follows Madam I have had the advice of some able Physicians and through their Prescripts I have got this cooling pleasant Julep Which if you please you may make use of or else dispose of it other ways I fear very much that we lose that time which peradventure we may never recover again therefore send me word what you have resolv'd upon and what it is I must do for your Service If you have not now the opportunity of sending me your mind get it ready writ against I come at
saw her self under the necessity of yielding to an inclination involuntary and long check'd but in vain St. Aubin relying on the modesty of the Lady thought it the duty of a Civil Gentleman to take advantage of her disorder by pressing her a little faintly But he found her so unexpectedly coming and kind that he smarted for the small advances he made and saw he must use clearer and more passionate Expressions And as the Lady unwilling her Compliance should be wholly useless and thrown away upon him reproached him with ingratitude for the favour she had shewed him The Count having heard all behind a Hanging came forth with his Poiniard in his hand to stab his Wife if St. Aubin with laying his hand on his Sword had not hindred him by a vigorous resistance and seeing the Count ready to go call in his Servants to his Aid chose rather to hazard the discovery of his Sex than expose that unfortunate Lady to so many inconveniences and himself to ruin He pray'd him before he would make any more noise or call in his People to have the patience to hear him a moment And to convince him he had something considerable to say to him he laid his Sword at his feet and himself at his discretion The Generous Spaniard seeing his Enemy disarm'd became more tractable and permitted him to speak St. Aubin told him it was for the Countesses Interest and his the Count should be undeceiv'd by the discovery of a secret he had resolved to conceal all his Life With that St. Aubin declared himself to be a Woman and that in Spain under her true Name Christina she was intimately acquainted with the Countess and her very good Friend that since that a violent passion for Arms had engaged her in the Kings service in the Wars which was so agreeable to her inclination that she hop'd he was too Generous to discover the secret she acquainted him with when she had declared to him the consequence of it The Count could hardly be satisfied with the bare words of Christina but his Lady upon hearing the story and Name of Christina having recovered her Spirits and taking advantage of her Husbands disorder perswaded him she very well knew who Christina was and having reproached him for the ill Opinion he had of her Conduct she took her turn to run into passion and her anger which her Husband thought real and several other Circumstances a great deal more true especially the relation of what pass'd in the Convent put an end to all his suspicions He begg'd his Wives pardon and thought in favour of her chastity he remembr'd several particulars he had never heard of He went out to give them time to come to themselves again out of the fear he had put them in The Countess being recovered of the fright she had been in for her Gallant and her self continued a while under a grievous Confusion to find her self deceived However she exprest her self very joyful to see her old Friend but not without reproaching her for that by concealing her Name she had expos'd her to weaknesses no other in the World could have made her fall into St. Aubin was so perplext he knew not what to answer The Marquess in the mean time not able to Master his Passion for the Countess whom he hop'd to work upon by his perseverance and the assistance of his Friend had by his Liberalities gained one of her Women who gave him an account of all that past in the House And having observed St. Aubin using his Mistress with a familiarity unfit for any other Person she thought it might be an acceptable service to the Marquess if she watch'd them more narrowly St. Aubin coming one day to the Countesses before she was up was sent for into her Chamber and made sit on her Bed and that they might discourse more freely the Countess bid her Maids quit the Room This liberty though ordinary in France appear'd to the Marquesses Pensioner so Criminal in a Spanish Lady that she thought he would be very well pleas'd to know it and went instantly to tell it him The Marquess no less Jealous than Amorous was so surpriz'd at the story he was vext at the heart and his Jealousie perswading him more than he had heard he resolved to be revenged upon his Trayterous Friend for all the ill usage he had received from his Mistress not doubting but he had contributed a great deal to it A secret inclination he knew not the cause of but attributed to the remains of Respect and Kindness he still had for the Brother of a Person he had lov'd above any render'd his resolutions uncertain and ineffectual Yet calling to mind how he had oblig'd him and made him his Confident and that St. Aubin had upon his word engaged to do him the best service he could with the Countess he thought no Resentment too severe for a Traytor But not finding in his heart to violate the Law of Nations by taking a revenge unworthy his Quality and Honour he resolved to sight him fairly in hopes to disarm him and without further punishment than to reproach him with his ingratitude Having met him an hour after he fell upon him briskly without making any words St. Aubin defended himself but as a Man who would only ward off the blows of his Adversary without doing him hurt The Marquess making at him with design to seize his Sword dangerously wounded him Upon that they were parted and the Count Benavidez coming in order'd St. Aubin to be carried home to his House and fearing his Wound more dangerous than it prov'd he could not forbear sending for the Marquess and telling him the Name and Sex of the Person whose life he had indanger'd The End of the first part THE SECOND PART OF THE Heroine Musqueteer OR THE Female Warriour A TRUE HISTORY Very delightful and full of Pleasant Adventures in the Compaignes of 1676 and 1677. Translated out of French LONDON Printed in the Year MDCC THE Heroine Musqueteer OR THE Female Warriour PART II. NEver was Man so astonished as the Marquess d' Osseyra when he found he had wounded his Mistress the same moment and with the same Weapon he thought he had taken Revenge of his Rival The Count de Benavidez gave him an account of all that had happen'd when he surpriz'd the suppos'd St. Aubin with his Lady and particularly of the discoveries he fansied he had made of the Intelligence between them The Relation was so surprising and the Circumstances so extraordinary the Marquess was so confounded and under so strong a Convulsion of different Passions that what with fear what with grief he was Mute for some time and appear'd like a Statue without Sense or Motion But the Passion he had had for Christina prevailing over the rest and reproaching him secretly with having destroyed her he prayed the Count to go instantly learn what news of her wound the disorder he was in being so great
as he was arriv'd at Lisle he pretended he had a Letter for Christina and having got her call'd to the grate of the Covent she was in he ask'd her privately what news of the Marquess Christina not able to give him any account of him the Servant acquainted her with the departure of the Marquess from Brussels the adventure of the Bill of Exchange and all other circumstances of his absence Christina who found in her heart a stronger inclination for the Marquess than she thought she had was so concern'd for his misfortune that the trouble she was in at the news convinc'd her of the height of the passion she had for him She earnestly pray'd the Man to return instantly for Brussels not to omit any thing to learn some news of his Master and to let her know without delay the success of his care Before she could make an end of these few words her tears betray'd the affection of her heart When the Servant was gone she past some hours in those inquietudes none can comprehend but those only who have been in Love The mean time the Marquesses Servant being an honest Fleming and very devout despairing to find his Master goes into a Church and having heartily pray'd God to inspire him where to meet with the Marquess he no sooner turn'd himself about toward the Church-door to go out but he spy'd the Marquess standing before him and not able to contain himself cry'd out at the Miracle The Marquess also astonisht at so unexpected an accident had much ado to make his Man hold his peace and giving out he was his Comrade he told those who came running in at the report of the Miracle that the Man was a little crack'd and had often such Fits They got off by this Artifice and went into a house where the Marquess had lain His Man gave him an account of what had past at Brussels and of the disorder Christina was in at the news the tears she shed and the lamentable condition he left her in The Marquess who after the last days work durst not appear at the Covent-gate was ravish'd with joy at the news of her being so concern'd for his misfortunes and having got her call'd for by his Man he slipt into the Speaking room and quickly reviv'd her by his presence Never was Conversation more tender than theirs 't was not in Christina's power to reproach her Lover with any thing the violence of his passion for her could not presently justifie She promis'd him once for all never to be any mans but his and pray'd him not to expose himself again to so many accidents assuring him she had already written into her Country to desire the Abbot Dizesle who had the management of her Affairs to take a journey into Flanders to agree with him about her Marriage The Marquess well satisfied with these fair hopes that she might be at ease withdrew sooner than he would have done and return'd to Brussels where his Friends by their joy to see him again convinc'd him of the trouble they were in by the fears they had been under of having lost him To keep them in ignorance lest they should discover the mystery of his absence he gave out he had lost himself a Hunting a Sport he was known to use and was taken by Robbers who having detain'd him three days set him at liberty This past for current being so very probable only the Countess of Benavidez would not believe it her Jealousie having given her a true guess at the cause of his absence it vex'd her to that height she presently resolv'd to leave no stone unturn'd to break the Correspondence between the Marquess and Christina About this time news came to Brussels the French Troops were on their march it was very early in the year and the Spanish Generals were extremely alarm'd to hear of an Army in the Field in January in a very cold season All the considerable Officers came to Brussels to assist the Governour of the Spanish Netherlands with their counsel in a conjuncture of this importance Count Salazar being arriv'd there one of the first and having given the Countess of Benavidez a Visit she endeavour'd to revive his passion for Christina reproaching him with his indifference and acquainting him the same time with the dangers his Rival had expos'd himself to for a sight of her Salazar who had been discourag'd from seeing Christina by the difficulties appear'd in the attempt was somewhat asham'd and to cover his coolness with a plausible pretence and let her see he had not been wanting to his Duty he bethought himself of putting a Trick on his Kinswoman and persuading her he was more in Christina's Books than she made account The Countess answer'd She could hardly believe it He offer'd to make it out and desir'd only time to step to his Quarters to do it 'T was not long e'er he return'd and brought her a very passionate Letter of the Marquesses to Christina being the same formerly spoken of which Salazar's men cunningly got from the Marquesses Salazar having in his hand a Letter which so clearly prov'd what he had said shewed it his Kinswoman and told her she might judge by the Sacrifice Christina had made him how much he was in her favour The Countess having read the Letter was very well pleas'd and thought it very proper and effectual for setting the Marquess and his Mistress at variance She spoke Salazar so fair that she prevail'd with him to leave it in her custody upon her promise to make no ill use of it which she kept so ill that the very next moment she went to one of her friends a Lady of the Marquesses familiar acquaintance and having aggravated the dangers the Marquess had expos'd himself to for seeing Christina and the ill consequence of his passion it might be excus'd adds she did Christina but love him which she is so far from that she cannot endure him but sacrifices his kindest and most affectionate Letters to Salazar who to my knowledge hath several of them though he hath the discretion not to shew them To this she added many other particulars which convinc'd the Lady and made her believe she could not do the Marquess a better Office than to cure him of his passion and disabuse him as to his Opinion of Christina She fell to work on the morrow and made use of all means the Countess had furnish'd her with to perswade the Lover to think no more of so faithless a Mistress The Marquess who could not imagine Christina capable of falshood to him did not easily believe what was said of her and would not for a long time admit the suspicions they endeavour'd to infuse into him of her But this Lady Pressing him to it continually he promis'd at length to believe what she said if she would show him one Letter to convince him of the falshood of Christina The Countess of Benavidez inform'd of this good success sent the Letter
spoke in my first Volume as the Person who pass'd the Pyrenees to steal her away Christina cry'd out frightned to see her self so near a Person who had been deeply in love with her and one whom she thought she had highly offended Don Philip had not heard of Christina since he went into the Army in Catalonia whence he return'd but once to Court to take his Oath of High-Steward of the Houshold the Place being void by the Death of the Marquess Darizza his Father so that 't was no wonder he was surpriz'd at so unexpected a sight of a Person who had been so dear to him and by her insensibility had made him resolve to go into the Army Those who have had any experience in Love will easily agree the sight after long absence of a Person we have tenderly lov'd and never prevail'd with cannot but cause extraordinary emotions in the Heart of a Lover All Men are apt to flatter themselves in their passions and Don Palafox not able to imagine what strange Fortune should bring Christina a French-woman into Spain when the Two Crowns were so deeply engag'd in War presently fancy'd she had repented her ill usage of him and probably was return'd into Spain in search of him And continuing to interpret all things to his advantage he thought the slights Count Talara complain'd of and the loud cry her late astonishment at first sight of him had forc'd from her effects of her passion for him Being full of these fancies he said a thousand extravagances and Christina was so surpriz'd she answer'd not a Word The Ladies who stood by taking notice of the astonishment on either side help'd to bring them to themselves again and finding Christina much disordered by the presence of Don Philip they pray'd him to withdraw which he could not deny them yet hoped the disorder he saw Christina in boded him much good He was no sooner gone but Christina observing that the Ladies were in pain to know the cause of her trouble yet so discreet as to forbear asking her acquainted them with what had past in her Country and whatever else had any relation to her concern with Don Philip This lessen'd their wonder at her astonishment and was easily believ'd by them who were well acquainted with the headstrong humour of that Gentleman Don Philip the while consider'd the Accident he had newly met with and being naturally vain flatter'd himself with an Opinion Christina was in Love with him It was a pretty while ere he came to a Resolution whether to return to the Ladies or retire to save Christina the Confusion he fear'd his Presence would put her in before the Company After much Debate it was carry'd for the Retirement in Confidence his Mistress would thank him for his Discretion and esteem him the better for 't Count Talara impatient to hear the Success of his Friend's Journey had given Order he should have notice as soon as Palafox arriv'd And going to his House soon after his Arrival he ask'd him with much Concern what News of his Mistress You have a Rival answer'd Don Philip who hath long been in Love with the fair French-woman and he is a Gentleman I have a great Interest in and my very good Friend Know you not reply'd the Count thinking he meant the Marquess d'Osseyra that the King hath explained himself in that particular and declar'd He will not consent to their Marriage You surprize me says Don Philip not comprehending the Count's meaning I did not think the Court so well inform'd of the Affair A Kinsman of Don Philip's coming in interrupted their Discourse and prevented farther Explication The Count took his Leave and Don Pallafox remain'd very unquiet at the News he had newly told Going to the King on the morrow he found Christina there giving His Majesty an Account of every thing worthy Observation at the Escurial They ask'd if she thought it a better House than Versailles there is no proportion between them says Christina Versailles being more considerable for the Waters and delicate Gardens about it than the magnificence of the Buildings which are neat and convenient but not stately but the Escurial is a Palace of very large Extent Don Philip pretending he knew not this strange Lady ask'd those who stood by who she was while she spoke to the King They told him what they had heard of the Marquess d'Osseyra's Passion the Fights she had been in in Flanders and in a word all those Stories the Publick had added to the truth of her Adventures The King being gone to Counsel Christina retir'd and Don Philip gave her his Hand to bring her to her Apartment which she would not refuse him for fear of notice being taken of it in so publick a place As soon as he came where he might speak to her in private he assur'd her he had always lov'd her and that if he had been guilty of Disrespect in endeavouring to steal her she ought to pardon it as an Effect of the Excess of his Passion his Intentions having been always very good Christina willing to disabuse him told him his Explications were to no purpose since she had dispos'd of her Heart to another and waited only a favourable Opportunity to complain to the King of the Injustice of her Enemies and to entreat his Majesty's Protection if she should marry the Marquess d'Osseyra otherwise that she might have liberty to spend her Life in a Convent With that she burst out into Tears at the Thought of the Marquess which Don Philip seeing that he might not afflict her more by Discourse he perceived troublesom to her went away but was so much concern'd for her that he made it his business to be better instructed in the Particulars of her Affairs Having remembred himself that the Countess de Benavidez had resided long in Flanders he gave her a Visit and falling insensibly into Discourse of Christina The Countess gave him a Description of her much like that she had formerly given the Marchioness d' Osseyra and many others insinuating that all her Disguises were the Effects of a Criminal Passion which Don Philip was so far perswaded of that he repented he had ever lov'd her Most Men are disposed to believe what they hear reported of the ill Conduct of Women and the gross Error of most Strangers especially Spaniards in the hard Censure they pass of the Liberty Women enjoy in France did not a little contribute to confirm Don Philip in the Sentiments the Countess had inspir'd him with He thank'd her for her Information and having that Evening met with Count Talara as the King was going to Bed he told him he would cure him of the Passion he had for Christina assuring him he knew by a very good Hand she was unworthy the Affection of a Person of Honour The King having that Instant call'd the Count upon Business belonging to his Place he had not the time to answer Don Philip and presently after
the Blush and the King observing it had the Curiosity to enquire the Reason The Princess very glad of an occasion to divert him gave him her Sense of Count Talara's Motto and added that Christina could if she pleas'd perform Career as well as the best of those where to run The King saying he did not think it the Princess conjur'd Christina to make use of the Equipage she had provided for one Course at least The young Monarch express'd so earnest a Desire to see how well Christina would come off there was no denying him and the Princess their Request That less notice might be taken she pretended her self not well and withdrew Her next Care was for a Motto somewhat answerable to Count Talara's which being very witty she was not long to seek She caus'd these words to be written on her Shield No ay que amar y me nos que esperar de quien tienne duenno 'T is in vain to love much more to expect Good from him who is already engag'd Christina having set all things in as good Order as the shortness of the time would permit appear'd boldly at the Barrier and call'd for Canes but was troubled with an Accident she had not foreseen The Order was That the Cavaliers who presented themselves for the Course should tell their Names and make themselves known to the Officers appointed to Register them to prevent Disorder usual on such occasions Our Heroine loth to Undergo that Law was deny'd the Canes The King who had his Eye upon her perceiving her in Disorder on that account order'd his Brother Don John to let them know it was his Majesty's Pleasure that Gentleman should be dispens'd with from telling his Name or shewing his Face The King's Pleasure was no sooner known but Canes were deliver'd her And her refusing to submit to the Rules of the Course and the King's Dispensation gave cause to believe 't was an extraordinary Person not willing to be known This drew all Eyes upon her every one guessing who it should be Great notice was taken of the Motto Count Talara observing the Opposition between it and his desir'd with Impatience to run a Course against this unknown Person who manag'd his Horse very well But it was not probable Christina should be as skilful at handling and darting the Cane as the Spaniards who are us'd to that Exercise from their Youth And 't is certain our Heroine had run a great Risque of being unhors'd had not Don John foreseeing what might follow given Count Talara a private hint the Stranger he was to encounter with was Christina You may easily guess the Effect this Intimation had on the Amorous Count who was confirm'd in the Truth of it by the Motto he had observ'd on her Shield He could not at first find in his Heart to run against Christina but having thought better of it he put himself in a Posture The Count who had already run several Courses with Advantage against the most expert in the Sport meeting the Stranger pretended himself disorder'd and unready when he should have darted his Cane Christina without losing a moments time threw hers which the Count appear'd so stunn'd with that he fell off his Horse Christina was so confounded at the loud Acclamations of the People who judge of things by Appearance without examining the truth she knew not whether she had got the better or the worse till she was presented with a Rose of Diamonds the Prize appointed the Conqueror Our Heroine pleas'd with her Success retir'd loth to hazard in another Course the Reputation she had gain'd by this Count Talara having had a sore fall was carried home to be blooded which was much to the advantage of Christina's Reputation The Count being known to be very expert at that Sport the whole Court sent to see how he did And the Princess made Christina sensible of the Obligation put upon her by the Count who had fallen off his Horse of purpose like a true Spanish Gallant and advis'd her to send one to inquire of his Health Christina with some difficulty consented to it The Count ravish'd with joy at the Complement answer'd him who was sent that his fall did not much trouble him but he had a Wound would not be quickly cur'd It vex'd Christina she had given the occasion for such an answer fearing the Count would pretend to some advantages for the Obligation he had put upon her The Princess bid her set her Heart at rest and oblige the Widow with the Rose of Diamonds she had gain'd at the Course Christina though fearful to engage further with so forward a Woman comply'd however with the desires of the Princess She shifted her self into her Habit of Don Artal and presently went to the Widows Apartment where she found her very much disorder'd She was so precise she would not appear at the Sports but knowing Don Artal would be there and being much concern'd what became of him she had sent a trusty Person of purpose to observe how things went and bring her exact information He brought her the Names of all those who were Registred for the Course but not his for whose sake alone she had the curiosity to read all the rest She was much concern'd at the missing him a Woman ever passionately wishing the Glory of her Lover Her Spy told her there was a Gentleman appear'd Incognito and had refus'd to tell his Name and that the King to prevent disorder had dispens'd with the formality and that this unknown Person had unhors'd the famous Count Talara and retir'd with a Rose of Diamonds of very great value The Widow wish'd with all her Heart this Unknown might be no other but Don Artal but then thought she how should a Youth and such a Novice in Love be too hard for a Gentleman of so much skill and experience with that Don Artal enters the Chamber she presently ask'd him what news of the Course and why he had not been there I was unwilling to appear answers he without your Devise and since you refus'd it me I had no Mind to shew my self where you would not be I knew you had not appear'd there said the Widow though the good opinion I had of you made me hope you might be that illustrious Unknown who so eminently signaliz'd himself and carry'd the Prize at least my heart gave me none better deserv'd it than you but I see our Hearts often deceive us You are not deceiv'd in that Madam says Don Artal and see here adds he presenting her with the Rose of Diamonds the Mark you may know that unknown Person by who hath had the good Fortune to deserve your esteem The Widow surpriz'd at a Present so glorious and unexpected received it very gladly and embrac'd the occasion so luckily given her to present her Servant with a String of Diamonds of very great value praying him to keep it as a Pledge of her Love Don Artal for fear of angring
fair Diamond with which she would have presented him but Camille having kissed a thousand times that delicate Finger did not think of taking the Ring so that she let it fall expresly But the Pilgrim was so transported with Love and Pleasure that he took no notice of it And the Marquess being just come in to tell his wife that it was time to prepare her self to Land she withdrew to Camille's great sorrow who some moments after went out of his Chamber to behold the beautiful Marchioness and to be seen by her Our Pilgrim who had not appear'd during all the Voyage and had embark'd himself in the Night time did surprize every body at his appearance upon the Deck every one guessing by his Ayre his Gate and those Accoutrements which he had under his Pilgrim's Weeds that he was nothing less than what he appeared to be The Marquess and his Lady who came forth of their Cabin a moment after found him upon the Deck leaning on his Staff holding his Hat with Shells under his Arm in a certain Posture as did presently draw their Eyes upon him though with different Thoughts The Marchioness had a Manto upon her Head after the Spanish Fashion which did cover her whole Face so that Camille had but the Pleasure of admiring her fine Shape and the charming Aire of her whole Composure and that too by stealth for fear of creating new Jealousies in the Husband who had his Eyes incessantly fixed upon him beholding him as a Bird of evil Presage for he was of Opinion that the whole World had a Mind to his Wife At last he came near unto him and made him some Questions to find if he were not deceived in his Distrust As they were discoursing together and that the Spanish Don's fears did still increase more and more to hear a Pilgrim reason with so much wit as this did appear to have the Captain of the Vessel came up to Camille and with a Reverence that did out-pass what was due to an ordinary Pilgrim he asked him if he had not lost a Ring shewing him at the same time that which the Marchioness had let fall from her finger and told him that he had just then found it in his Chamber Camille who had not the least thought of the favour which the Marchioness had intended him answer'd him no and that it did not belong unto him but the Marquess having presently known it did most terribly blush and God knows with what fury his Soul was instantly possess'd yet he dissembled all and chose rather to lose the Ring than to divulge his shame in owning it to be his Wives He left the unfortunate Pilgrim for presently his first suspitions had fallen on him again and retiring into his Chamber caused the Marchioness to be call'd with such a cold Air as did disguise the rage and violence of divers passions which then possessed him he inquired of her what she had done with her Diamond The poor distressed Lady more pale than Death fearing that she had been betray'd by the Pilgrim answer'd him in a stammering voice that she believ'd she had lost it Then did the Jealous Husband giving a full vent unto his fury let himself be carried away to such violent actions as were very unworthy a person of his quality Camille who knew not the reason why the Marquess and his Lady were retired strangely surpriz'd at the noise he heard run to his Cabbin to learn what might be the occasion there he beheld the lovely Marchioness leaning upon her bed and her unworthy Husband in a great fury walking in the Room and giving her all manner of ill Language Nothing could more grieve his Soul than that sad Spectacle he was a thousand times in a resolution to go in to them to revenge such Tears as did rend his heart in pieces the which to prevent he would have given his life Nothing but the consideration of the loss of the Marchioness which he foresaw would be infallible if he should proceed so far in his resentments did prevent him He would gladly have known the cause of this Quarrel not believing that he had given any such occasion to the Marquess who being somewhat more cool was going to inform him of all things by those reproaches that he had begun to make to his Wife when he had notice given him that the Governour of Barcelona who was his near Kinsman was coming in person to receive him and that his Skiff was already got near to the Vessel upon which laying aside the rest of his anger against some other time he left his Wife in the Cabbin that she might have some time to recollect her self and went forth to meet the Governour The desolate Marchioness in this Affliction greater than can be express'd for having been thus villanously betray'd by a person for whom she had at first sight conceived a great esteem was framing within her self most strong resolutions never more to confide so lightly in persons that she did not know and as she was going forth she espy'd the Pilgrim looking through the hole Ah! Traytor said she to him did I present you with that Diamond but to ruine me by it Go I shall be revenged if I can and without staying for an answer she followed her Husband Camille who was afflicted even to death to be call'd Traytor by that person that he would have least betray'd of all the world was a while like a man possest with sorrow despair and amazement Traytor Traytor did he repeat twice or thrice over what Treason can I have committed against her I that have not known her but one day and that would sacrifice a thousand lives to do her service With this he let himself drop upon a Bench and reflecting on that which the Marchioness had reproached him concerning a Diamond and then on the Ring which the Captain would have given him before the Marquess believing that it was his it came in his mind that he had seen such a one on the Marchioness finger and thus little by little unravelling this cruel Mystery he easily did perceive that he was the only cause of all that evil In what despair did he fall on the sudden but not to lose time in superfluous exclamations he went to the Captain and did engage him to return him that Ring then presently running to the other end of the Ship he found that the Governour was newly arriv'd and that he was embracing with the Marquess He takes the opportunity of those Ceremonies to restore to the Marchioness her Ring but as he approaches her she flys and thus they both went round the Deck Camille who perceived this her disdain was forced at last to shew her the Diamond to let her know it was to restore it that he would approach her But the Marchioness did understand it otherwise and believing that this Pilgrim was of intelligence with her Husband who doubtless had given him that Ring as a reward of
sacrifice to his Request all the Resentments that he might have against his Wife and had had a Promise from the Marchioness never to have any Design against her Husbands Honour and Interests Thus a certain kind of Reconciliation having been made upon this he had left them both in a passable good Resolution of living Friendly together All this was good in the outward Appearance but the inward Parts are not so soon cured and as the Marquess could but very hardly forgive his Wife the treasonable Trick she would have plaid him his Wife did not despair of finding out some other Pilgrims if this should fail her Here were two Persons very strangely intention'd and that might lie long enough together and yet have no true Peace between them Neither was there any thing else all Night but Maundrings on the Husband's side and Sighs on that of the Wife which lasted till Morning A pitiful Society A sad Alliance which is but too often met withal in this wicked Age It is not without Cause therefore that the Mode of Unmarrying has been found out of late The Governour 's Wife who was impatient to speak with the Marquess had order'd a Page to wait all the Morning at his Chamber-door to tell him when he was up that she had something to impart to him It was very late before he came to her with a sad and melancholy Countenance partly through the ill Night which he had passed and the little reason that he had to be satisfied with Donna Barbara's Proceedings as for her part expecting no better she was not surpriz'd at it and without further minding of it she told him that she knew the Cause which he thought he had to be angry with her but that she protested to him that she did not know any thing of Father Andrew's late Design in which her Honour had not been as much concern'd as his she not being of Quality nor Honour to serve any one in such amorous Intrigues that she did not only intend to have that insolent Monk punish'd for it but that she expected that the Marchioness should also make her some acknowledgment thereupon and driving her Resentments further yet she added That it was a thing very unworthy a Person of Quality that had marry'd a Marquess who had been honour'd with so many brave Employs and descended of one of the prime Families of that Kingdom to abandon her self in that manner to the Love of a Pilgrim of a Beggar which she had rather follow than her own Husband Finally she set her self up in so fine a Mode of Invectives that the Marquess who did believe her to be angry in earnest had much to do to appease her He did ask her a thousand times Pardon for his Wife acknowledging that she did not deserve to be ally'd to a Person of such Honour and Quality as she was that it was his Misfortune and he the more to be pitied The Conclusion of all this was That Donna Barbara did advise the Marquess to convey his Wife to some solitary place and learn her to be wise But the Marquess who was tainted with that Weakness incident to all Jealous Husbands that cannot part with their Wives though never so many Reasons to incite them to it was not at first of her Opinion and thought it more reasonable to remove the principal Cause of all those Disorders the Pilgrim which the Governour could do no less than banish him out of the Kingdom if he would not condemn him to die as such Attempts as that wicked Persons were did deserve Donna Barbara who was concern'd in all this did as little approve of the Marquess's Designs shewing him that besides those Forms that were to be observed in doing Justice which would not permit the Governour to banish a Man without being first examined it were more proper to leave him for some time in Prison to punish him for his Insolency and that there were besides certain Reasons as to the Decency and Policy of the business which required some other kind of Usage because that this Banishment would seem less Punishment than a Pretence whereby to be rid of a Person which he feared and of whom he were jealous and that however it would be an easie matter for this Pilgrim to go into the Kingdom of Valencia or in that of Aragon and there cause him the same Troubles as he had done in Catalonia The Marquess who was not one of the best Head-pieces in the World was yielding to Donna Barbara's Reasons who added this besides that when the Marchioness should be inform'd of the Pilgrim's Liberty she would not despair to see him again and that the surest way to cure her of that Fancy was to take from her all possible Hopes of ever seeing him more by removing her from him so soon as possible he could so that she might never more hear him mentioned The Marquess being now wholly convinced did resolve to be gone the very next Day and in order to it he went to seek the Governour to inform him of his resolution who did endeavour to disswade him from it but all in vain for he did not confide much in him neither by reason of his Indulgency towards the Pilgrim Donna Barbara was of opinion that she had very much advanced her business in having perswaded this jealous Man to leave Barcelona flattering her self with the thoughts that the Marchioness whom she did look upon as the sole Obstacle to her desires being once distanced from her Lover she would find it no longer so difficult to be belov'd by him To wholly deceive her in that Opinion there needed no more but Father Andrew who after he had but very fruitlesly discoursed the Pilgrim on these Instructions that the Lady had given him would not quite put her into despair in informing her of the little esteem that this Lover had for her for then he would himself have lost those advantages which he did hope to gain by his cares as also the honour of continuing longer in the Office of the Governesses Confident He therefore gave her hopes that the Pilgrim would not always prove insensible towards her that he had found him much altered since those fine things which he had told him concerning her and that if she would be patient but a little she should find him if not quite so passionate as she deserved yet at the least very penitent for having slighted her favours and sufficiently softned to give her satisfaction As there is nothing that more easily makes impressions in our Minds than those things which please us and which we desire Father Andrew did not say one Word to that Passionate Lady which did not give her infinite content though under doubtful appearances the good Father who did discern it in her Eyes did continually add some new thing unto the amorous Narrative So that Donna Barbara being impatient to see the effects of Father Andrew's rare secrets did resolve to go in a
whom he would not for the World have given so great a cause of complaint after the great Civilities which he had received from him The Governour replyed Donna Barbara pitiful considerations and seeing that I pass them by thou shouldst not scruple to do the same But rather say and never seek after specious pretences that to my grief thou cam'st into these parts with a Heart fill'd with another Object That it is the Marchioness that renders useless and even odious to thee all my Cares my Kindnesses and all things else that I would do for thee When thou dost own it to me I shall do thy Heart justice but then add to it that I might have been agreeable to thee if thou hadst seen me first and that when ever thou shalt loose all hopes of possessing her thou wilt remember with what a Passion I love thee and give thy self wholly to me Other Women would not be contented with this small request there are but few that would love thee at that rate But I will make thee sensible how far the excess of a real Passion will extend Camille had never found himself in so great a confusion He could not refuse some complaisances at least to a Lady so transported with Love as she was for him and he had need to qualifie his disdain to give her some answer suitable to her passionate Discourses yet nothing did more contribute to those kindnesses which he expressed to her as the desire which he had to be rid of her incessantly fearing that she should be supriz'd with him in that disguise and that this visit should come to the Governour 's knowledge which would make an end of ruining him he could not forbear expressing his sense of it to the Lady intreating her to have patience till he had recover'd his liberty and that then there would be less danger for either of them and they might have the satisfaction of seeing one another the longer But she being incapable of any reason did reproach him all his fears which she being wholly taken up with her passion could not entertain Yet at last to let him see that she did love him to that excess as to deprive her self of what was most pleasing to her which was to see him she left him and at her going she did force from him some kindnesses which either real or fictitious did however extreamly consolate her Father Andrew who had seen this visit concluded far better than he expected did receive by it almost as much of satisfaction as Donna Barbara had and did much glory in it and did congratulate her of her happy Success to which he thought he had not a little contributed They both went out of the Tower entertaining themselves with the merits and fine Qualities of this Pilgrim which were thought to be such extraordinary ones that she would needs have him to be some Prince in a disguise seeing nothing but what was great and extraordinary in all his Actions The good Father who knew how much it would please her to extend himself upon the Pilgrim's praises did ever out-do her at that sport and the earnestness they were both in did so transport them that without considering they were in the Enemies Territories they did speak so loud that any body might hear them So that being come near to some steps which were to be acsended Donna Barbara who knew not so well the way in the dark as Father Andrew did did bid him lend her his Hand to help her up the steps The Father who went first turn'd back but when he would have taken her by the hand he found it already seiz'd on and that somebody else did do her that Office Upon this such a fear did seize on him as it would have done on many others that without speaking one word he stole away into his Chamber as fast and with as little noise as he could Where I believe he Barricadoed himself up and I believe had but an ill Night of it Donna Barbara hearing some body walk so near them did softly ask of the Father who she thought she had by the hand what that was But this Father would make no answer it being the Marquess who returning from giving the last orders for his departure was waiting there for his Flambeau that was blown out and which was gone to be lighted again Donna Barbara presaging no good from that silence did inquire of the pretended Father the reason of it and was thinking to retire fearing some surprisal just as the Flambeau appear'd by whose light having perceiv'd that it was not Father Andrew that did hold her by the hand she made a great out-cry and presently got away leaving one of her Gloves behind her not having had time to discern who it was But she was perfeectly known by the Marquess who had had leasure to hear her discourse with Father Andrew which gave no small cause of reflection to our Jealous who since the Morning had thought her the most virtuous Wife in all Spain And the Governour the happiest of all Men because he could take his rest in quiet The Dress she was in did surprize him more than all the rest he who was a professed Bigot and who did perceive to what use were put such holy things He concluded that Father Andrew must of necessity be made one in all those sports on whom he did already look as on one of Lucifer's black Instruments sent into the World to corrupt all Woman-kind He could easily guess by what he had heard them say that they were newly come from visiting the Pilgrim and that thought did somewhat comfort him for in this World there 's nothing like having Companions in our afflictions which makes them not seem so weighty to us He had a great itching immediately to give the Governour an account of this Adventure but because he knew him to be extreamly prepossest with a good opinion of his Wife and that he should have to do with a bold and high spirited Lady he feared that a Glove might not be sufficient proof wherewith to perswade the Husband that he was in his predicament or to convince the Lady of being concern'd in a gallant Intrigue And that consequently he should but cause some disorder and draw upon himself all the evil of that Intrigue So that he took the resolution of being silent and return'd to his own Apartment reflecting often within himself how little Women were to be trusted and that some did make Horns to others who had his own House full of them Upon this he caressed his Wife with a better heart than he had done in a long time and as he knew that nothing could work a greater effect on the minds of Female kind than Jealousie would he could not forbear giving her an account of the pleasant Rencounter which he had had The Marchioness would have had much to do to have believed it thinking it some effect of his jealous mind to make her