whom they were so strangely obliged O Olivaires I am that Master John Talbot I am that Cavalier whom thou didst conduct to his Native Country that Gentleman I am whom being excommunicated for a large Debt thou didst at thy own Expences discharging the Sum cause to be re-blessed and have Christian burial God for such Charity Brotherly love and thy goodness did command me to do such kindnesses for the Possessor of so honest an heart He delivered thee in all thy Distresses he at length hath tried and fully known that precious Soul which he has given thee That Elemosinary Pity which thou shew'd unto me shall also prepare thee a Mansion in the Heavens My giving the Black Habit signify'd my being in the state of damnation the Red Livery intimated the ardent Fire of Purgatory which hath purged away my sins the White Vestment manifested the Celestial Country which was opened unto me I served thee therefore with Arms Horses and Men I directed Arthur to the place and made him take thee out of Prison At that instant I seized the City I gave the Lion for a Companion to Arthur who killed the Monster and who fought like an Army in the Campaign I healed his Wound I gave the Ring of the King thy Father to Helena and I begged of the Lady to act with hers for giving thee her to Wife Therefore thou hast had every thing through me but acknowledge all from God as the Author And let each of you render infinite thanks unto him who hath delivered you out of so great Afflictions and who for the future will fill your hearts with joy and gladness All these words spoke the Cavalier and at last being surrounded with a Divine Splendor said Peace be with you fare you well for I mount to Eternal Life and vanished CHAP. LXXII The King and Queen pay their gratitude unto God and of the coming of the King of Dalgarve with the Espousals of Clarisia THE King and Queen rendered infinite thanks to Almighty God ever amazed and admiring at so strange a matter and terrible Accident as had befall'n them and they ordered that a solemn Thanksgiving should be made throughout the whole Kingdom unto the Lord Jesus Christ Arthur having in this time setled his Realm of Dalgarve went to the Court of Olivaires his Brother in-Law where he could never enough satisfy himself with looking on Clarisia both for her Beauty and Behaviour and in consideration that it was her Blood out of her own Veins that had cur'd him for which he every day gave thanks unto God One day Olivaires call'd to him and said My Brother who art ever in my heart and who hast done so much for me I much desire that you should marry if you fancy such a state I like your Majesty's Proposal very well reply'd Arthur but whom may you bestow upon me whom might it be convenient that you should give me my Clarisia who hath saved your life she shall be your right Eye your Soul and dear Companion for by your good deeds and carriages towards me you have deserved her And as they were designing to make this Alliance four Lords came post from England to signify to Olivaires that the King had been seiz'd with an Apoplexy whereof he died in a day's time which news made a melancholy Court and they all went into mourning The Funeral was ordered and the solemn Ceremonies duly performed After some time the Nuptials of Arthur and Clarisia were concluded on and all things prepared and fitted for the celebration and Arthur was crowned King of England by Olivaires The report whereof spread suddenly all over the Realm Whereupon Counts Knights and Barons came to the Feasts and Justs and all the Cities sent to make congratulation then after a convenient time's stay Arthur went to England and gave the Government of Dalgarve to his Natural Son and constituted him Vice-roy a person of a gentle virtuous valiant and admirable Genius CHAP. LXXIII Arthur King of England goes to London and Henry is made Commander of an Army against the Infidels HE who would have taken a true estimate of the love between Olivaires and Arthur should have been present to see their parting when he went from Spain For I believe his heart was well nigh burst with sorrow and Helena seeing her Daughter go away was fill'd with extream grief at last they took leave and departed with a great comely and honourable Train A few days after an Embassy from the King of Cyprus arrived to Olivaires to demand Aid of him against the Enemies of the Catholick Faith and Olivaires designed to go suddenly himself in person for such an Enterprize But his young Son Henry hearing of it begged of his Father to leave the conduct and management of his Forces to him for that he desired to get a name and honourable repute among famous Cavaliers which favour though with difficulty he obtained Having made him then General Royal he gave him Twenty five thousand well armed Men and when he had put them all in right order and had made ready their Ammunition and all things necessary for the War and their March he departed for Cyprus 'T was a grand affliction to Helena to see her self deprived of both her Children at once At his going away a great number of Spanish Cavaliers accompanied him and some went with him to Cyprus others joined with him in battel and assisted him When Prince Henry was arrived in the Kingdom of Cyprus he united his with the other Army and with mighty fury fell on the Enemy and got a glorious Victory Wherefore all following and adhering to him as a prudent and valorous Prince he resolved to give them a total rout and destroy them all and take many Countries before he made his return into Spain The news of this his so successful first Attempt was brought to Olivaires and Helena which wonderfully pleased them and rejoyced the whole Kingdom CHAP. LXXIV Arthur's Entry into England and of the Feasts Triumphs and other Justings made for the Nuptials and of a Rebellion of the Kingdom WHEN King Arthur made his Entry into England a thousand Lances and a thousand Men on Horseback all clad in Silk came to meet him Cavaliers Counts Marquesses and an infinite number of Knights and Gentlemen received and attended on him with his Consort Clarisia and they admired her for being the Daughter of so beautiful a Lady the Daughter of one of their Kings and fancied they had got Helena again so much she resembled her Thither to the Nuptials was concourse of all the most valiant Knights that were in the whole Kingdom and infinite Turney and Justing they made and many days the Court was abroad After that Arthur was publickly inaugurated and with the assistance of Excellent Counsellors he put in good order his whole state and disposed every thing for the best it pleased God that Clarisia conceived and at the due time brought forth a lovely Boy and
they gave him the name of the late King of England Now the fame of this Foreign Heir of the Kingdom beginning to spread wide certain Princes were moved with envy at his great Felicity and inviting the Irish Kings to their assistance they caused a part of the State to rise in rebellion Wherefore Arthur was forced upon a new Adventure who thought he enjoy'd the Kingdom in perfect peace Fitting then as many Forces as he judged sufficient to repress the insolence of his Subjects he went on the Design The Duke of Glocester headed the Rebels for being Cousin to the old King he imagin'd he had so some Title to the Crown Arthur engaging Battel with him in few days space destroyed the whole Army and taking the Duke Prisoner he would have slain him but he begging of him for the Lineage sake of which he was descended he gave him his Life and set him at liberty and he renounced all his Pretences to the Realm of England but within a few days died of grief Arthur returning after lived in peace and quietness and was blessed with a Daughter who prov'd an occasion of an Illustrious Alliance for maintaining the Tranquillity of the State CHAP. LXXV The Alliance Arthur made with his Daughter by the Counsel of Olivaires and of his Son Henry OLivaires having understood of Arthur's Journey proffered him supply of Men and Horses but Arthur had no need of any Hearing afterward of his Victory he made great Rejoicing And having knowledge of the Nativity of his Daughter he writ to him to seek to contract Alliance with some potent Prince that his State might not be in fear of War or Rebellion any more Wherefore calling together his Council he read to them Olivaires's Letter who all approved of his Advice and so designed to make trial on the King of Portugal And when some Months had passed Ambassadors were sent to treat of the Match and it was concluded that Arthur's Daughter should be given to the King of Portugal's Eldest Son who was a few Years elder than her and the Dowry was referred to Olivaires's Determining Now Arthur's Son being dead who governed for him the State of Dalgarve Olivaires Arbitrated that the Kingdom of Dalgarve should be given in Dowry to the King of Portugal Wherefore that State hath ever since continued under the Jurisdiction of the Portuguese Crown Arthur was much troubled for the loss of his Son but bore it the better for that his Legitimate Daughter succeeded him So in fit time according as Histories write she went to her Husband Arthur's Son growing up imitated his Father's Valour and all his Vertues which gave mighty Content and Satisfaction to Olivaires also who was continually inquiring after him Henry Olivaires's Son gave also consent to this Alliance to whom Messengers were ordered who found him in his Camp before a strongly fortified City and he had already conquered and taken many and he kindly received them and they returned satisfied Arthur understanding the great Soul and Prowess of Henry was infinitely delighted and did by Letters much Congratulate on his account his Brother Olivaires who lived in great Pleasure by continual hearing of his Son 's brave and honourable Exploits CHAP. LXXVI Of an infirmity happening to Olivaires and of Henry who was assaulted and almost slain whom Arthur goes to recover OLivaires by reason of uninterrupted Harrassings and Fatigues in his Youth and also his so many Months Imprisonment in Ireland in Age became more sensible of his before better supported Mishaps and Afflictions and their sculking Effects and waiting an Advantage proved over-match for his infirm Years and so he must truckle under their severe Pressure His Stomach then is become so infeebled that nothing that he eats will Digest with him and he is tormented with continual and intolerable pain in his Head and unto his Malady and to increase his Grief an unlucky Accident was added which was That his Son Henry pushing forward with some Cavaliers more couragiously than their Strength and Ability to come off well could second was thrust into the throng and main of his Enemies from whence it was impossible without great difficulty and hazard to save himself and get back to his Army again so that as was thought he was mortally Wounded When Olivaires heard this ill News he writ to Arthur to desire him to go and relieve his Nephew who did not stand to make much Preparation but with a Choice and Valiant Detachment march'd away This gave some satisfaction to Olivaires reckoning himself was there in Person if Arthur were When Arthur arrived he found Henry very bad however he gave notice to Olivaires that it was much better with him and taking extraordinary care of him he in a few days see him well again In the mean time the Enemy-Army felt the Forces of Arthur who oft vigorously assaulted them and with a vast Destruction made Mountains of the slain When Henry was recovered Arthur returned and went speedily to give his Olivaires a Visit who was much afflicted with his infirmity Helena was mightily overjoy'd at his coming and she perceived that Arthur's presence did some what recruit Olivaires Arthur discoursed to him the whole Matter concerning Henry spoke of the Beauty of his Daughter and by degrees gave him an account of his Son how as he grew up he imitated Olivaires in all Noble and Virtuous Indowments of Mind And having rested for some Days with his honourable Cavaliers he return'd into England to enjoy his Rich and Beautiful State and Nation CHAP. LXXVII What is Recorded by English Historians Spanish and others concerning these Kings HEnry conquered many and many Countries and at last died Fighting for Holy Mother Church a true doubly Militant Son and Member thereof The same foresaid infirmity after a long Life brought Olivaires to his Grave When he died Helena took on so sadly that she also Expired on Olivaires's Face and they were both Buried together Arthur was Crowned King of Castile and his Son Married and had Children and so likewise had his Daughter So for many Years flourished the Fame of all these mighty Kings But the Heavens which give an end to every thing not to the Grandees only but to us who have writ this present History and also shall to all the Readers thereof bring our destined Periods about that after the Fatigue of a miserable Pilgrimage we may find some Quietude and that leaving behind them for a time but not long the yet mortal Garments Nature accommodated them with our Spirits may return into the Hands of the Lord who gave them of him to receive Good or Evil Rewards or Punishments according as we have deserved and behaved our selves Let us therefore make humble request unto the Almighty with sincere and cordial Affections that he would please to look on his Mercy not our Merit his Grace not our Works and that for those he would bring us unto and make us Partakers of his Kingdom that which is not Transitory that which no Tyrant how potent soever can usurp or molest that wherein no Vice dwells which none can enter or approach wherein no wicked Persons have share place or residence which they may not unless to increase their Torment behold but where have their Source and Origin where for ever are Nourished where for evermore Inhabit are Secure and Established Goodness Vertue Wisdom Peace and Felicity through him who is all these Supreamly and Essentially And that he would bestow these also upon us whilst in this World to the end that washed and purified from the pollution of Sin we may joyfully go hence to enjoy revere and adore Him and Face to Face eternally gaze on the Beatisick Vision Amen FINIS
his Daughter Helena spoke plainly enough to her Who dear Child appeared to you the most Valorous in this Combat Helena reply'd I minded them Sir all alike and every one seemed to perform well Understand Governess of my Soul said the King that the Present will quickly be brought and given to him whom the Judges shall sentence the most deserving and that he is also to be your Husband and the Heir of the Kingdom Wherefore I desire to know how your Inclications are Him whom your Majesty shall think of and whom your Royal Judgment shall most approve and him in short whom you shall name and recommend to me I shall willing accept of for my Spouse Lord and Guardian of my Life If the Black Red and White Cavalier subjoin'd the King we should make choice of for his Merits would you be so satisfy'd although we yet be ignorant who he is If my Sovereign and Father the Judges shall think him worthy of the Prize to defraud him of it would be high injustice however your Majesty's Will and Pleasure shall intirely be mine CHAP. XXXIII Of the words the King spoke and the Reward that was given to Olivaires THE King of Ireland of Scotland and of other Dominions with the Dukes Princes and Barons of their Realms were set down when the King order'd silence and then thus said Signories High Empires States and Kingdoms presently will the Judges and Lords be here with the Reward of the Turnament and to whom my small Present shall be given the same also shall espouse my Daughter and only Child and have all England for her Dowry but I will that that Prince Lord or King remain some time in my Court that I may have experience of his Valour in all Exploits and after understand his Lineage and Descent and then may he enjoy the Crown Let now then the Prize be brought and adjudged to him who got the greatest Honour and was Victor of the Turnament First came 30 Pages with lighted Torches in their hands and after 30 most noble Cavaliers then followed 10 Pages in gold Embroidery with Torches also in midst of which were 6 Knights clad in Cloth of Gold and in the midst of them a Duke all in Armour who carried a golden Bason and in it a Neck-chain of Gold interwoven with Jewels and so wonderfully wrought that the very sight of it alone was a transport for all Humane kind and it might be said to have been one of the Wonders of the World nor could the value of those Jewels be estimated and after followed the Judges with an infinite number of Knights and Gentlemen and being so placed that every one might conveniently be a Spectator they came before the King speaking to this effect CHAP. XXXIV The rich Neck-chain is given to the Valiant Olivaires at which many of the Kings are filled with disdain it appearing to them that an unknown Knight was not worthy of such a Present MAY it please your Majesty Dread Sovereign we were appointed by your Majesty to be Judges for the Victor at Tilting and at the Combats on Horseback and on foot which Province we willingly accepted of and have diligently observed according to our skill the Blows the Hardiness the Valour and Force of every King Duke Prince and Lord and we freely give witness that every one of them has made honourable proof of right Chivalry but to our thinking the Flower of all and he who has merited your Majesty's peculiar Favour and Present is that Cavalier who was clad the first day in Black the second in Red and the third in White which valorous Knight is the same that sits by your Majesty the deservedly designed Heir of your Kingdom and although we be ignorant of his Country and Name yet we are ascertain'd he is come of a Royal Race and has Illustrious Blood in his Veins because such kind of Valour does not lodge in any other Personages save those who by such Extraction can appear thus worthy of a Crown wherefore with your Majesty's leave and good liking we will present the Gift to him The King being well contented made sign to them to do so the Duke then turning to Olivaires took the Chain and put it about his Neck saying unto him Your Valour which has conquered so many Couragious Knights adorns you with this Gift a Testimony of the King of England's Kindness and when his Majesty shall think convenient time you are to espouse Helena his only Daughter and be crown'd King of the Realm Believe me reply'd Olivaires I do not seem to my self to have done any thing to merit this but since it is the King's Bounty I am very well pleased So he accepted of the Present and Promise and bowing low to the King and Helena in a most eloquent Speech he returned them large thanks for their Liberality And to the Judges and to the whole Hall he also gave infinite Thanks and 't was judged by all that heard him that he was the finest Courtier of the World and every one considering his comely Regal Aspect his Martial Valour Boon Grace Deportment Mein and Eloquence even wept for very joy the King taking him by the Hand and kissing his Forehead set him in his place again then a thousand Instruments began again to play making infinite delight and festivity CHAP. XXXV The Cavalier who was Olivaires so great Friend and furnished him with Arms at the Justing appears in a Dream to Helena and of a Vision the King had THE morning after about break of day the King had this Vision He dream'd he saw Olivaires crown'd King of his Realm and that he had given him his Daughter then he beheld another Crown come over his Head and settle upon that much greater than the former he had given him and it doubled his Court Retinue and Riches and it appeared to him so August that he himself bow'd to it Therefore seeing Fortune had been so extraordinary kind unto him to send him such a Cavalier for his Son he was mightily overjoy'd and the transport awak'd him and revolving this Vision in his mind he was imagining with himself what it might signify And musing earnestly he fell asleep again and other Kings appeared to come upon him with design to take that Crown from off his head saying It was not fit he should wear two Crowns but he being moved at their Presumption seemed by force to bind their Hands behind them and to take the Crown off the Head of every one of them to whom after they had humbled themselves unto him Olivaires gave every one their own again and at this he awaken'd The King did admire at the Vision and assur'd himself'twas a Divine one and no natural play of Fancy and happy Mystery in it so he treasur'd it up in his memory and was fill'd with great joy When the Morning was further advanc'd he went to visit his Daughter Helena whom he found more than ordinary pleasant and delighted
and inquiring the occasion of it she said she had had about break of day a most pleasing Dream which was That she seemed to be walking in a Garden of fine Flowers whence were many gay delightful and odoriferous ones cast as if they had flown into her Bosom and Lap and that a Cavalier whom she knew not clad all in white pluck'd one and gave it into her Hand that smelling to it she thought she never scented a more ravishing flavour and having a mind to put in into her Bosom it turn'd to a Ring the most curious one that ever she beheld and the Cavalier vanish'd with telling her that was the Spanish King 's Whereupon she awak'd out of her sleep and found the Ring in truth in her hand and she shewed it to her Father the King being stupify'd at so amazing a thing said Certainly some grand Effect will follow upon our new Alliance and taking it into his hand he was more astonished still knowing it to be of inestimable value and said that a more precious thing he never saw She subjoin'd The Cavalier who gave it me said that it was a King's but I cannot remember the rest I was so over-master'd with transport that moment the King with her leave put it on his Finger and injoin'd her to speak nothing at all of it and parted from her CHAP. XXXVI How Olivaires seeing the Ring on the King's Finger knew it to be his Father's and marvelled extreamly but for that it was not known he made as if he saw it not and was ignorant of the Matter THE King being at Table and having the Ring on his Finger every one cast their Eyes upon it for that from the Stone was in it issued out Rays so bright that they resembled a Flame so that the sight could not long sustain the dazzle When Olivaries saw it he quickly knew it to be his Fathers and often dubious in his Mind and revolving things to and fro he at last concluded to be silent The King enter'd into various Discourses with Olivaires and in inoffensive manner enquired after his Name and Blood who replied my Name is Olivaires and for my Blood it is as noble as your Majesty shall please to make it The King proceeded no further for that time and was well satisfy'd and so likewise was Helena The King sought noâ— after his Nation for his Speech manifestly enough declared that Afteâ— Dinner the King of Ireland the King of Scotland's Son and otheâ— Dukes Lords Counts and Knightâ— came to take leave of the King Aâ—â— kindly embracing every one of them he made them many Royal Presents and doing them the Honour to accompany them a little way he dismiss'd them When these Potentates were gone they enter'd into a Combination by Oath to bring a vast Army against England to destroy it thinking the King had put an affront oâ— their Crowns in preferring beforâ— them an unknown Knight Also they further discours'd among themselves whence Olivaires might have such honorable Attendance with Cloaths Arms Horses and Pages One said he was the King of England in disguise other that he was a Spanish Cavalier whom Love had drawn thither which they judg'd by his Speech and for that his Dress and Garb were after the Fashion of that Province other that the King by Art Magic had made him prostrate and â—ill without any their ill Management Wherefore they were all unanimously resolved to have Revenge taking to Heart the Death of so many of their Cavaliers And with this Disposition they returned to their Cantons States and Kingdoms CHAP. XXXVII The King of England sends secretly into diverse parts of his Kingdom for the interpretation of his Dream and he has it THE Dream was interpreted after this manner That the King that should by him be Crown'd King of the Realm should also be King of another and wear a greater Crown than his and that he should pay him Reverence Then the Second Dream signify'd That those other Kings would attempt to extort from him the Realm of England that the Second Crown would take away their State and Kingdom and after courteously restore them again His Daughter's Dream was likewise expounded That she should be espous'd to a King the Son as it were among other Princes as that Ring intimated and if she could tell from what part the Ring came the King of that State should be her Husband By the White Cavalier who gave the Ring could be understood no other than that Cavalier who was Victor at the Turnament was clad the third Day in White and who would give her again the Ring The King was pleased with the interpretation and kept it secret in his Breast and the rather because the Effects of all would quickly appear as he was assured by those who opened to him the Vision CHAP. XXXVIII A sad Accident befalling Olivaires who was brought to himself only by the means of Helena OLivaires having remained some time in the Court and being in continual expectation of the King's Promise that he would give him the fair Helena to Wife pass'd Nights and Days in imagining to himself the Hour the Moment the Manner the Joy and his intire Happiness But yet for all his ruminating he could not see any effect answer his Thoughts nor could perceive any act or sign of Love express'd to him so that on the other hand he was afflicted and tormented incessantly and could get no rest nor comfort At length a violent amorous Accident befel him For being in a deep and fixed Musing in Presence of the King with many Nobles he fainted and fell down aâ— dead Whereupon he was immediately carried to his Chamber and the Physicians were brought and many Remedies prepared but they could not with any recover him out of his Swoon This dire Accident of Olivaires came to Helena's Ear and she as knowing his Malady and who secretly loved him with various contrivances and great caution convey'd her self where her Olivaires lay in this Deliquium and calling loud to him for she would try all means she approached near unto him and laid her hand upon his Forehead which he begun to be sensible of and look'd uâ— as one awak'd out of sleep And truly I think he would never have come to himself and life again had not Helena's Spirits revived his whose very touch did emit enough to cure him Wherefore being recover'd of this Accident he was very thankful to the King and Helena for the care the had taken of him And leaving him to rest the King and Helena departed At Night in the beginning of her sleep the White Cavalier appeared to Helena and begg'd of her to â—â—mper with the King to give her to Olivaires for his Consort in as much as she would have for a Husband the bravest Hero in the World telling her that for this cause he had given her the Ring which quickly she should see on Olivaires Hand And so vanish'd Helena keeping the Vision in
her Mind in the Morning deck'd her self in the richest Cloaths and Dresses that she had and design'd to reveal the Matter to the King her Father in the presence of Olivaires So she procured of the King to go and dine with Olivaires in his Chamber who after invited him to come and eat with him Thus having got her End as they were at Table many pleasant Discourses passed between them At length in the height of the King's Mirth two Couriers came to interrupt it accompanying some Ambassadors from the Kings of Ireland and Scotland with the following Speech CHAP. XXXIX The Challenge made by the Irish King to the King of England and tâ—â— King's Answer and that of Olivaires AFter they had pay'd their duâ— Obeisance to the King theâ— made a surprising Oration of the Motives their Sovereigns had to wagâ— War against his Majesty And aftâ—â— this manner was their Speech Thâ—â— Great Sovereign of Sovereigns thâ— all Wise Creator of Heaven and Eartâ— protect and prosper the Potent King of Ireland who challenge to bat 〈…〉 the sacred Crown of England a 〈…〉 say you are not worthy of it wheâ—â— fore they are prepared to take froâ— you your State and Kingdom and will come with Arms to shed your Blood and with Fire to destroy your Palaces And thus much I am Commissioned to say of my Sovereigns the Kings of Ireland worthy of all Power and Empire When the King of England had heard these proud Words conscious of his Innocency and the good will he always bore their Royal Majesties he took it in so high disdain that it stopt his Speech that he could not get a word out And suddenly he call'd to mind his Dream and the interpretation of it and turning his Eyes this way and that way on his Nobles Dukes and Knights and seeing none answer any thing or say a word nor himself being able to speak as he had a desire he rises on his Feet with intention to commit the task to Olivaires and at the same time make him espouse his Daughter Upon which Olivaires rising from his Seat spoke these words Puissant Prince with all Reverence and Humulity I beg of your sacred Majesty to do me the favour to let me be the Man who shall return answer to the Ambassadors of the unworthy Kings of Ireland At this the King spies his Ring on Olivaire's Finger and much marvelled Wherefore the answer the King gave him was Thou art my Son And taking Helena's hand and his and joyning 'em together he said This is your Consort and in token thereof he kiss'd them both and made him kiss Helena which fill'd all the Court with exceeding Joy and they were much delighted to hear the News of a War Now said the King to Olivaires Take upon you to give answer and to fight for and defend your Kingdomâ— Olivaires after he had apply'd himselâ— to the King and spoke what hâ— thought suitable on such an occasion 〈◊〉 turn'd to the Ambassadors and said Tell your Masters that Olivaireâ— of Castile the humblest of the King of England's Servants and legitimatâ— King of Spain and the Crown'd Successor of the Realm of England will come and make them sensible of the Error they are in and give them cause to repent of their Insolence When the King and Helena understood that Olivaires was the King of Spain they were so filled with Amazement and Joy as the like was never heard or can be conceiv'd Wherefore they began to entertain for him a vast respect and the whole Court for this great News was transported triumphed and looked big CHAP. XL. The departure of the Ambassadors and what Olivaires said to them OLivaires did much Compliment and Caress the Ambassadors and retain'd them a Day longer than they design'd to stay Then spoke thus to them at their departure Our most Christian Sovereign and Virtuous Father has been pleased of his bounteous Goodness to accomplish his Promise upon me Therefore acquaint your Masters how I have sworn not to return back from this Enterprize to my Father's Court until I have taken from them all their Cities and made every one of them Prisoners to manifest to the World what Tyrants they are and Usurpers of their undeserved Thrones So having presented 'em with fine Horses he dismissed them Olivaires had made plain discovery of himself to the King and Helena had understood a great part of his Secrets and had seen the Visions were come to pass and that the matter of the Ring was clearly apparent Wherefore the King judging by what had already happened also of that which was to come and hopefully foreseeing all would prosperously succeed ordered a mighty Army to be made ready of more than Ten thousand well armed Horsemen and bravely mounted and Infantry innumerable with Pikes Javelins and other Weapons suitable to those times and made Olivaires Generalissimo of all Who having accepted of so honourable Preferment and Command said I do not intend till I return again to make Helena my Wife till by my Valour in Exploits at Arms I may in some degree have shown my self not altogether unworthy of her Favour The Affection Helena bore Olivaires was so great that his departure was death to her the separation of him the Soul from her the Body But being well assured of his Courage she bore her Grief moderately through good hopes of Conquest and comforted her self with the Visions In few Days he with his well-armed Forces were on their march And the Kings were arrived for the overthrow of England with a vast Army Valorous and Strong so they went on ruinating and burning the Villages and ravaging the Countrey At Olivaire's departure his Spouse Helena put a rich Necklace about his Arm which she had always worn about her Neck and for his Neck making also Ornaments She utter'd these Votes May he who delivered Jonas from out of the Deep of his Mercy and Goodness preserve my noble Spouse and worthy of universal Reign Olivaires in all Perils which may happen unto him and may he be pleased to give him Victory as he did to David against the Giant Goliah Then she embracing kissed him and also the King embraced him and with the blessing of God he left the Palace and went to his Army CHAP. XLI Of the Battel Olivaires had with the Kings of Ireland and of their Army THE Irish Kings were incamped round a City containing Ten thousand Families and in five Days journey Olivaires arrived within half a League of them and Marshalling his Army in right order he made them to understand he was come to give them Battel The Sight and Presence of Olivaires struck mighty Terror into the Kings nor did they think of so sudden Engagement Wherefore they raised the Siege from before the Town and drew out their Camp into more convenient Method for fight Olivaires had got good Intelligence of the Enemy's Forces was informed of their Number which a third part exceeded his knew the
City being spoiled and every poor Soldier enriched with the Prey they rested and refresh'd themselves until Olivaires bid Edward his Captain resit the Fleet and repair the Ships whereever there was need After when they were well Victualled he caused him to dispose the Army into good order for transport to their own Kingdom So in a short time all things being in a readiness he is now for departing with his Captive Kings to the great Gladness and Rejoycing of all his Noble and Valiant Crew that had attended and gone along with him CHAP. XLV Olivaires parts from Ireland for England and of the honour was shown him THE English loaden with rich Spoils with many Carriages â—nd Horses burthened with things of great value now marched with their Sovereign Olivaires on their way and â—he Kings rode on most beautiful Mules without Spurs and so travailâ—d before the Valiant Olivaires and â—rrived at the Port they found the Ships prepared for them and all â—hings necessary provided in abundance for them by the prudent care of Captain Edward Having enter'd â—he Ships with all their Trophies in â—â—w days with a fair wind they touch'd 〈◊〉 the Port whence they parted when â—â—ey came from England And Oliâ—â—ires having come a-land and taken 〈…〉 gings dispatch'd Edward away to the King and order'd him to inform him of the whole Success of the War Edward being gone Post with some other Knights came to Court and having kissed the King's hand and paid low respects unto Helena for it happened that they were at Table together begun after the Ceremonies of Salutation to relate the Success of the War and to give account in order of the Valour Strength Activity Wit and great Vertues that so eminently appear'd in Olivaires whereat the King dropt tears for joy and Helena kept a Jubilee in her Breast and her heart melted with pleasure The Valiant Captain assur'd the King that Olivaires was the finest Knight that ever bore Lance and he told him with what courage he had taken the King 's of Ireland Prisoners and how with a handful in comparison he had foil'd and conquer'd them and that he had brought them Captives with him to his Majesty Then the King caused to be given to Edward a Present of Gold and Helena another of Jewels for the good News he had brought Mean time Olivaires made great days Journies and being arrived near the Royal City the King with three hundred Knights with golden Spurs Dukes Counts and Marquesses and the whole City with all sorts of Musick and Feastings made the Heavens to re-eccho again the Applauses of the Victory The King rid a white Nag habited in rich Tissue and had the Royal Crown on his head and when he came near Olivaires Olivaires hastily alighted from his Horse and so likewise the King and embracing him with Paternal kindness he kissed him many times The Kings of Ireland stood aside for they were not worthy to look on the sacred Crown of England and every one paid their reverence to Olivaires the Archbishops the Bishops and Prelates and they followed them on their way toward the City The King gave thanks unto and praised God and thanked Olivaires and expressed how much he was obliged to him both for the defence of his Kingdom and for having acquired a-new so great a State And Olivaires attributing the honour to God and to his Knights desired the King that he would be grateful to them for their Valour and also to the other Soldiers forasmuch as they all had behaved themselves galâ—â—ntly When they were arrived at the City all with loud Voices Bonefires and Instruments of all sorts expressed their Joys and when they were come into the Palace Helena like a descended Sun came toward Olivaires who bowing himself low was supported by the King and Helena gave him a Kiss which struck an ineffable sweetness and delight on Olivaires's Heart-strings and all the Evening till time for rest was spent in extraordinary demonstrations of Mirth and Joyfulness CHAP. XLVI The Captive Kings and other Princes are presented to the King IN the morning the Kings and Prisoners were conducted to the Palace Olivaires gladly beheld them and a while after when he thought it convenient he brought them before the King and Helena who was well enough pleased to see their condition for the love she bore her Olivaires Then all the Prisoners bended the knee to the King and Olivaires made a Present of them to his Majesty but he delivered them over into Olivaires's power to dispose of them as he thought good Olivaires then generously gave them their Lives and ordering a Table to be placed over-against that of the King Helena and Olivaires he caused them to be as honourably attended and waited on as his own Person the Kings were transported with this Courtesy and it well pleased the Court also After Dinner great Merriment began and the Kings had fair liberty given them under Guards and other things that were convenient These afterward accompanying them to their Apartments they left the King of England and Olivaires together to treat of the Marriage and what related to it CHAP. XLVII The King's Discourse and what he bestow'd on Olivaires BEing left then to discourse by themselves alone the King asked Olivaires if he might be worthy of and so happy to have his constant presence and stay in England Or if he designed to return to his Kingdom of Spain to whom he made answer he would never leave England without a King and this he promised him oâ— his Royal Word The same night after Supper they had Musick and a great Ball. After a little Dancing the King said to his Nobles who were present My Son Olivaires intends to morrow to take my Daughter to wife and she him for her Husband and the Kingdom for her Dowry which I desire Olivaires to accept of as part of the reward of his Valour and I think my self and us all happy in bestowing my Realm upon him who is the bravest Cavalier of the World and the chief King that sways a Scepter Olivaires making humble reverence to so honourable Age with great expressions of gratitude said that he did not deserve such a Reward and that he should ever have reason to thank Heaven and his Majesty for promoting him to and thinking him worthy of so great honour and begged of God to prosper him and prolong his days and fill him with all content and satisâ—action On account of this Munifiâ—â—nce and the Espousals Olivaires gave all the Prisoners and the Kings their Liberty who receiving such a favour made their Acknowledgment after this manner CHAP. XLVIII The Kings are made Tributaries of the Crown of England and promise Fealty THE next day the Irish Kings came to the Palace and delivered their mind to an Ancient Nobleman who was a famous Cavalier and he engaged and gave his faith for them and they confirmed it with their own Promises that their Crowns should for
regained their Sovereign They dispatched Messengers up and down with the News so Feastings were every where prepared and as they passed from City to City all honoured their Sovereign and every one took a great pleasure in saying For one Sovereign which we have lost we have gained two And the Fame hereof had got to Court and it was so confidently affirmed that many Lords went many Days Journey to meet them out of curiosity of seeing such a Rarity and were still more eager of it for that 't was said they were equals and alike in Turnament at Justing at managing Horses at Arms at Dexterity in Age Size Speech Tone and that to please their Fancy they dressed alike and wore the same Habit and loved so intirely that they seemed one Soul animating two Bodies CHAP. LXIII Olivaires and Arthur arrive at the Court and are equally received of the King and of Helena and how Olivaires is known and Helena well satisfies her self by seeing the Moles on his Arm. BEING arrived at London they were received of the King and Helena with unspeakable Joy and they were amaz'd not knowing which to take for Olivaires But Arthur revealed the Secret And Helena beholding Olivaires's Moles which she had seen before embraced him and printed a Kiss on his Lips And after having rested a while Arthur began to relate all that had happened and Olivaires to tell what Misery he had undergone And as they made relation of one thing after another from greater to less they caused the King's Heart-strings to tremble and his Pulse beat in great disorder and his main Vexation was for the present that he could not take revenge of such execrable Injuriousness for that Olivaires had pardoned the King of Ireland But lo just now Couriers come over who bring Letters that give Olivaires Intelligence how the King had rebelled Arthur was glad to hear of such Insolence since it would give him occasion to revenge the old as well as this new Affront He having Courage and Ability enough with the help only of his Lion to lay wast a thousand Realms much more Ireland alone The King having heard of the Prowess of Arthur and the Fateague he had undergone gave order for his being Honoured and Attended on as his own Person And he was presented by Helena with rich Ornaments and precious Stones and by the King with a large sum of Gold and he remained in the Court loved and respected of all and every Day they Justed Feasted and went to the Chace And Olivaires remembring the Day on which he was taken said to Arthur It seems to me to be full time that your ungrateful King should be made know his Error wherefore let us go and reduce the revolted Realm No said Arthur Let that alone to me and remain in your Kingdom for you have been enough in Ireland And being returned from the Chace they ordered a vast Army to be made ready and then they began their March for Ireland The King having made him his General gave him his Blessing and so he took his leave Arthur having got into Ireland and the King Intelligence of his arrival he goes against him with his Army to give him Battel and he sent a Trumpet to him to put him in mind thinking it was Olivaires that his old Prison waited for him and to tell him he hoped to take him Arthur laughed and said Go and tell your King that 't would be too great an Honour for him to make my Lion devour him but that I will give him for Food to the Crows and other Fowls of the Air. And dispersing his Army he burnt ruinated and slew every where and without all pity and compassion destroy'd and laid wast the whole Countrey so inraged was he at the King's Insolence And he soon arriv'd to where the King had posted himself who hearing of his exorbitant Fury fled into a strong City nor would expect him at his Campaign CHAP. LXIV The Assault that Arthur gave to the City and took it in which Battery the King dies IN the Evening Arthur put his Army in order made his Squadrons and placed them in their first second and third ranks to give assault to the Gates and sent to the Walls those who should scale them and he gave them fierce battel when night came on with the one part and at midnight he caused the other to make an Assault and early in the morning with the remainder who had taken repose he did great execution whence those within were overcome through want of sleep and weariness then Arthur divided all his Camp into three places and begun a sharp Fight and bursting ope a Gate he enter'd in with Lance upon his Thigh and those who came upon him he run thorough passing their Armour as if it had been of Wax and his Lion enter'd into the Battel and made in the City that havock and Massacre among the Men as if they had been Herds of Cattle They remembred Arthur And the King seeing him would have made resistance but Arthur kill'd him upon which the People were all terrify'd dispers'd and fled away Some threw themselves down to the ground from tops of Houses rather than they would fall into the hands of the Enemy and others drowned themselves in Pools So he cours'd about the City as his own and constituted Governors of and put a Garison in the place a part of his own Army and with the rest he returned victoriously to London having placed Garisons where ever else was thought needful to keep the Kingdom in subjection to the Crown of his great Majesty of England The King of England having understanding of the Victory caused universal Rejoycing to be made and when he came Olivaires went with great triumph and exultation to meet him and the King gave him many Caresses freely bestowing on him all he had got So the two Brothers continued together every day feasting making merry Hunting Justing and diverting themselves with other noble Exercises CHAP. LXV Of an Infirmity which hapned to Arthur and how by some Dreams they see the remedy for his Cure AMong these Sweets Fortune must needs be mixing her Bitters and so severe she was as to bring upon Arthur an incurable Disease and 't was after this sort Arthur's Body was all corrupted within whence proceeded out of all parts of it an infinity of Vermin and they would certainly have devoured him but that he ever hastened to kill them Not a Physician but disgusted the sight nor a Servant that could indure the stench He had half lost the sight of his Eyes and his Speech falter'd and he was become a perfect Skeleton Yet his Body was inwardly swell'd all the ligaments of his Joints were dissolved and lax like a Paralitick he could not raise his Head from his Pillow nor turn him in his Bed whatever he eat gave him no nourishment and in a word so strange was his Malady that the Doctors could not find any remedy
for it None but Olivaires had courage to look on him and he continually attended him And when Arthur wish'd and begg'd for death a thousand times in an hour he comforted him and pray'd him to bear his condition patiently telling him He did not think it the least trouble to wait on him but did it freely and with great satisfaction One night Arthur dream'd he saw Olivairer's Daughter breathe a Vein and that she sprinkling some of the Blood isused from it on his Visage and giving him more to drink he was cured by the virtue of it Whereupon he waken'd for joy but then finding it only a Dream he said nothing of it to Olivaires The Virgin was of competent stature and she also dream'd the same night she saw Arthur drinking of Blood out of a Bowl and to be cur'd thereby and she told it to her Mother Olivaires one morning 'bout break of day see in a Dream a Lady drawing blood out of her Vein and with it bathing Arthur and also giving him of it to drink and that he was cur'd thereby The sight whereof wonderfully rejoyc'd him and the same morning told the Vision to Arthur Helena from her Soul loving Arthur as if he had been her own Brother declareed also her Daughters Dream Arthur though secretly had made his Vision known to the Doctor who did assure him that Blood was his only remedy CHAP. LXVI The Consult of the King Olivaires Helena and the Physicians upon Arthur Infirmity WHen the King heard of every one's Dream he knew for certain that Clarisa's Blood was to be the Medicine whereby Arthur must have relief On the one hand he was dubious on the other he was resolv'd and having called Olivaires Helena and the Physicians desirous he should recover he enquired of them which was the most facil way to perform the Operation On the one part Olivaires consented to the doing of it for that he was his Brother but was afflicted on the other fearing it might endanger his Daughter's Life Helena lamented the Mishap Arthur would rather have dy'd than any hand should spill the least drop of his Neece's Blood the Physicians knew not any way to take Blood from her without great hazard and fear of harm to the Damsel The King was sorry he could not shed his own to serve him Olivaires likewise would freely have bled and Helena was troubled extreamly Under these Difficulties his Royal Friends labour'd a whole day and earnestly recommended with Prayers themselves and their Case unto God At night when Helenâ— was about going to bed she with all humility kneel'd down on the Floor and with a most sincere heart made her application unto God begging of him to instruct them how without danger or pain to extract Blood from her yoing Daughter inasmuch as they were resolved to free him of his Disease by that Remedy Lo in the night a Lady arrayed all in pure white Silk with a Crown of Gold upon her head appear'd to the Royal Damsel and with saying things that delighted her and with winning Smiles and sweetness made gentle application and lanced a vein of her right arm and having saved the blood in a bason of Alabaster and healed the little orisice said to her you shall give this to Arthur to drink and bathe also his Face with it In the morning the thing being understood the King and they all render'd thanks unto God and published the Miracle and Solemn Sacrifice was appointed The Damsel in the morning accompanied of her Mother and also her Father with all the Ladies went unto Arthur and bathed him with that same blood and gave him thereof to drink whereby in a moment he was seen to admiration to recover and in a short time was perfectly cured CHAP. LXVII After the restoring of Arthur to his health Cavaliers came out of Spain to compliment Olivaires as their Sovereign WHen Arthur was well again the rejoicing was no less than if he had strictly risen from the dead and the world kept a Jubilee his Subjects of Ireland came to compliment him upon and with great joy congratulate his recovery The same time also many Embassadors arrived from the Kingdom of Spain to make demonstration of their mighty gladness for having found again their King but withal expressing sorrow for the Queen's death so that there was a necessity of declarations of sadness for Arthur's sake but when the Court was out of mourning there came many Dukes Lords and Knights and begged of their Sovereign King Olivaires that he would be pleased to make happy with his presence his own Dominions wherefore they all supplicated the King of England to give consent that Olivaires Helena and Arthur might go for some days to their Realm The King was pleased and proffer'd to accompany them also himself and having order'd the Carriages Attendance Treasure and all other things to be in readiness they took their progress for Spain He who could relate the number of the Guards those three Kings had the Pages Knights and infinite Train that attended them and also the Ladies would be able to make the most stupendious Narrative that was ever heard Only the Queen and her Daughter had two Courts of Knights and Ladies that equall'd the Stars of Heaven both for their number and their brightness Castile having notice of the coming of so belov'd a Sovereign and of his People so much desired made great Jubilee and Exultation and the more for that they understood they had for their Queen the Daughter of England and that she had also a Son and Daughter The Feasts the Pomps the Rejoicings the Triumphs the Justings and Turnaments were infinite every where as they passed were such great Feasts and Entertainments made for them as was possible to be prepared among such hurry of joy and rapture CHAP. LXVIII Olivaires and Helena having enter'd Castile are crowned THese potent Princes were receiv'd in Castile with Pomp and Expences inestimable and the third day according as was before ordered Olivaires and Helena were crowned King and Queen of that Kingdom Olivaires was obliged to stay for some time in his Dominion and Arthur also to go to his of Dalgarve so the King of England was to return alone which was something melancholy to him especially he leaving also behind his Daughter He returned then for England however accompanied a good part of his way by many Dukes Counts Lords and Knights and some went thorow with him into England After that Arthur being gone to his Kingdom to redress and put in order what ever he found amiss Olivaires likewise gave great diligence to reâ—orm his State to reward his Subjects â—nd caress all and for the establishâ—ent of his Kingdom and to demonâ—â—rate his great affection to King Dalâ—â—rve he determin'd to make Alliance â—ith him and that so strict as the knot â—ight be Gordian and indissolvable â—o he and the Queen resolved to give â—im their Daughter Clarissia to Wife â—he only seeming Obstacle was
troubled his Parents for that would oblige them to sell their Goo◠and Estate neither could the price 〈◊〉 them reach it therefore they resolve rather to let him remain excommunicate than satisfy the Debt but the generous Prince Olivaires would no less be his Friend in death than Brother in life as you shall hear CHAP. XVIII Olivaires causes the Cavalier to be buried and discharges the Debt and of some Justings proclaimed in the Court of the King of England OLivaires seeing the great Covetousness of the Knight's Parents was much offended at it and used all the endeavour he could to accord the matter betwixt the Parties At length being neither able to persuade the one nor bring the other to a composition-agreement he demanded of the Creditor how much the total Sum came to and when he was answer'd 2000 Nobles he like a Prince and Mirror of Princes paid with Gold and Jewels the Debt for his deceased Friend retaining their late friendship fresh in his memory and so procured for him Christian Burial After few days he heard a Report that the King of England had given command for proclaiming a Turnament to continue three days and that he who should get the victory should have for reward his Daughter to Wife and the Kingdom for her Dowry and this Royal Maid was the most beautiful and admirable young Creature that ever was born or ever appear'd on the Earth Nor would her Father bestow her in marriage on any King or any other unless he was the most valiant and bravest of the Age to the end that by Arms he might maintain her in her Dominions and the State in peace There were 400 Knights appointed to maintain the Justing and Combat against whatever Cavalier had a mind to present himself on the Field for Encounter and now Nine Months had passed since the Feast and Turnament were published and the allotted term was to expire within 15 days The Valiant Olivaires made it his business to understand well the Fashion and Customs there and by a very Experienc'd Cavalier got Instructions as to every thing and that which delighted him most he was credibly informed that the King's Daughter did much exceed the high Character and Fame that went abroad of her therefore Olivaires fell in love with the very Idea he had conceived from report thinking with himself that if he should come off Victor at such a Turnament the Prize would be an abundant reward of all his Fatigues and Affliction And now he is on his way for going to the Justing and London for the Court resided at that City and there was the place appointed for this famous Turnament CHAP. XIX What Fortune Olivaires has by the way leaving Canterbury to go for the Tilting THE time being now but short before the Feast was to begin the Valiant Knight is on his Journey ever having in his mind the delightful thoughts of Victory and of seeing so many Kings Dukes and great Lords make proof of their Valour thus thinking he went on till he came to a Wood not far from the City of London when lo from one corner of it sallied out 15 High-way men Assassinates of Travellers one whereof with Lance in hand advanced up putting himself in the front of the rest and with villanous words said Lay down your Arms Knight Errant if you desire to live Olivaires before he made answer put up a secret Prayer unto God and his Answer to the Assassinate was immediately to draw his Sword and fencing off the thrusts of his Spear and making his Horse give back he brings him down and kills him and taking his Lance he turns himself against the other Robbers who made very gallant defence but in little time the Valorous Olivaires slew the greater part of them whereupon the rest fled away wounded and as fast as they could recover'd the Wood amazed at the mighty valour they beheld in him and if they had been double or treble the number I truly believe he would have conquer'd and kill'd them all Olivaires having free'd himself of them paid his gratitude to God and riding forward he spies a Spring as clear as Chrystal to which he makes and alights from his Horse to refresh himself with its water being extream thirsty and hot and also to wash some Ripples he had got in the Assassinates Assault wherefore being intent upon these his Horse had step by step wandered a good way off and being now at liberty began to run and caper about before Olivaires was aware and with great haste he goes with design to catch him when out of the thick Wood came one of those villanous Highway-men and prevents him seizes on the Bridle mounts him and flies away with the Mail was fastned to the Saddle-bow What Mortal can imagine Olivaires's grief at this Accident finding himself deprived of his Horse and Jewels which were of great value but his chief trouble of all was that he could not go to the Tilting being void of all hope and means both for the Combat and Attire Whereupon he begins a Complaint able to rend the Rocks and soften them into tenderness and compassion O! was not my Mother's Death enough to satiate the spight of Fortune was not enough my Father's Grief was not enough the Affliction of my Kingdom Not content to have hurried me into infinite perils of life when in the height of my desire to recover my Losses she brings a Cloud over my little glimsing Joy and dawning Happiness But thou Lord whose Essence is goodness it self reach forth unto me thy Right hand in this Wood Let thy Sun dispel my new darkness that surrounds me and laying his Face on the ground in a posture for dying after sobs and tears he was silent CHAP. XX. Of a Cavalier that appears to Olivaires and puts him into hope and of some Covenants betwixt them OLivaires being in so melancholly a Mood a Cavalier came unto him certainly a Messenger from God for his comfort and with a loud voice call'd to him O Olivaires of Castile rouse up and hate me not for terminating thy Doubts rouse up and sleep not whereupon he quickly raised his head being surpriz'd to be called on by name yet not resolved whether to sleep or awake thinking it might be some Phantasy which his Melancholy had presented to his Imagination but looking earnestly he was assured by his Aspect that it was some very honourable Knight and observing the black Vesture on his back he was the more astonished then signing himself with the Cross after the manner of the Christians he said I adjure thee by the Maker of the Heaven and the Earth and the Merits of his Son Jesus to tell me how thou camest by the knowledge of my Name and whether thou art a Man or a good Genius Be not afraid of me said the Black Knight for that I am a Christian and believe in God as thy self enquire not now why I have called on thee it is
enough that thou art heard as to the losing thy Horse Jewels and Gold and thy trouble for not being able to go to the Turnament hath penetrated where it will have the best relief for thou hast obliged me by many Kindnesses and signal received Services and therefore so I am ready to oblige you again in whatever shall be requisite for the Turnament for I will not discharge Benefits with Ingratitude and in a word thou shalt have every thing becoming a King not thy Superior I am willing in recompence of thy courtesy that thou shouldst partake with me in all the Acquist that thou shalt procure by me and thou shalt give me the half of all whatever thy Gains when I demand it of thee altho I will have liberty to take it to my self or leave it to thee Olivaires who had a burning desire to be at the Tilting hearing the Cavalier's Offer without heeding the Conditions or the Covenant answered him after this manner If my Fortune shall not dissent from thy doing me so great pretended Service of furnishing me with Arms Horses Attendants and Money so as shall be sufficient for me I swear to thee by the Power Omnipotent and promise by the trust which I put in him that thou shalt share in all the Reward Gain and Treasure by receiving the half or more if thou desire it in case I shall be Victor at the Feast and win the Day The Knight accepted of it upon his Royal Paroll and renew'd his Promise that he should be so honourably served and so furnished in all respects for whatever might make him appear brave at the Turnament as any Knight in the World could wish to be and taking him by the hand he led him into a Grove where having shew'd a strait path would carry him to a Sacred Hermit's Cell he told him he must remain there till he could return with all necessary Provisions for his purpose O Olivaires thy true Friend so assuring thee willingly wait for him who shall quickly rejoice thy heart and Olivaires taking leave of him with much expression of gratitude went to the Hermitage and the Knight vanish'd and left him alone on the way CHAP. XXI Olivaires comes to the Hermit and of some Discourses betwixt them THE holy Hermit was at his Devotions when Olivaires knock'd at the Dore of his Cell and being afraid not any one for many years before having come at him he would not open it but when Olivaires said he was a Christian and no Evil Spirit or Apparition having first sign'd himself with the sign of the Cross he let him in and led him to the Altar there to worship his Saviour then making him sit down the Hermit went and finished his Devotions After that he brought him a red Earthen Dish of dry'd Fruits Bread and Water mustering up for the entertainment of the Valiant Knight all his forces and bid him to take good heart for that just now by Divine Revelation he had seen who he was and the occasion of his departure from his Kingdom and how the Cavalier had invited him to his Cabin and many other particulars the Holy Father told him Olivaires well satisfied of the sanctity of the Personage paid him exceeding great reverence and praised Almighty God for his goodness unto him The Hermit after this open'd to him the Sacred Law and expounded it with much fervency of spirit and gave him many good Instructions then he made a Bed with Leaves and Straw for him to repose on and defired him for God's sake to take patiently this penance for that 't was necessary to pass this miserable Life with pain and sorrow having confidence in the Lord that after he had gone thorough the Waters of Misery and the Flames of Purgatory God would place him in a Paradise of refreshment and perfect Joys And after he had given Olivaires his Blessing he left him to rest When the Morning was come the Sacred Hermit celebrated the Holy Mass and Olivaires having confess'd his Sins to the Reverend Father received the Eucharist with mighty devotion and contrition for his Faults After he continually instructed him in the Holy Scriptures making it manifest unto him that it was a good Spirit who by the Grace of God had brought him thither and continually comforted him and exhorted him quietly to support these his present Tribulations and indure many other also which were to succeed them CHAP. XXII Olivaires is overjoy'd seeing come in his behalf Men Horses and Arms. OLivaires was four days in expectation of the Assistance that was promised him after which he begun to be a little moved knowing that the last day before the Turnament was come and he grew to be much afflicted at the delay of the Cavalier and if the Hermit had not assured him that he would not fail him he had perhaps despair'd wherefore he deliberated often of going to London He beheld from rising ground whither he went to see if he could spy the Cavalier coming many Horses and armed Troops which were going to the Tilting which vexed him to the very heart and when at night he retired into the Cell to the holy Father he fell into an extream great passion and could eat nothing so now the whole term was past therefore Olivaires resolved to go alone to Court but the Hermit with much intreaty persuaded him to stay till the next day so that now all the days were past and the hour of the Tilting was come wherefore the valiant Knight despairing went to prayer and after he was beginning his Journey lamenting his mishap but as soon as he had opened the Hermitage Dore and had scarce gone four steps forward he heard a loud neighing of Horses and clink of Armour and they seemed to draw near to the Hermitage and presently he saw six Cavaliers advance before the rest all armed in bright Corsalets and all the Horses with Trappings and covered with Black but without Lance and Shields after these followed ten other Cavaliers clothed in Black Velvet and also all Furniture for Horse fifteen Pages likewise on fifteen beautiful Black Horses came after and fifty men on foot all in the same Sable Livery and the two first led by the Bridle a sprightly and wonderful finely shap'd Horse covered and adorn'd with Black Trappings and on his Saddle-bow he bore a gilded Helmet garnished around with precious Stones which enlight'ned the gloomy Grove and every one carried some part of Olivaires Armour which was made of the finest Metal covered with Damask work and a Tuck oâ— purer and better temper than eveâ— Artist in the World wrought Sword Lances Dagger Shields and Crests CHAP. XXIII The Pleasure and Transport Olivaires was in at such Preparations and of the Beauty of the King of England Daughter THE Knights being habited after this manner as you have heard came up to the Hermitage paying that Reverence which was agreeable to so great a King quickly the Knight of the Grove who had
places of the Countrey the Enemy might fly to and save themselves Wherefore having accommodated and provided every thing and given all his Soldiers Arms and ranked 'em in fit posture for Combat he made unto them this short Oration Valorous Lords worthy Knights my Brethren and Companions I believe you are well satisfi'd of the good Nature of our Sovereign the King of England my Father and of the great Liberality he hath expressed toward you in Gifts Presents and fair Promises And I believe that you have a Courage lodged in your Breasts ready to requite as much as you are capable what he has deserved of you But this I am most sure of as a shining Truth that the Glory of an honourable Death is far rather to be elected than the living with more ease and perhaps not so even to the most faint-hearted under the brand of Cowardise and consequently the disgrace of Scorn and Affronts This Day therefore offers a fair Opportunity to make honourable Proof of our Valours and to dilate the Soul of our King to harbour still greater Kindness and Affection if it be possible for us all And I can plainly behold in all your looks Hardiness and a rising Courage and a longing after Battel and Fame and for the rendering more honourable and noble your Blood Summon up then all your Strength and Vigour and contract them into a stout Heart to expel out of your Dominions such arrogant haughty and proud Invaders and spread abroad their Infamy and Disgrace whilst you procure to your selves a happy Memory and leave the inheritance of a valorous Name upon your Families and whosoever is of another temper is a reproach and shame to his native Countrey Here they all with one consent cry'd aloud We are ready to undergo a thousand Deaths for our King for your Highness and for our own Honour and we will follow you wheresoever you shall lead and we will give such demonstrations both of our Fidelity and Courage as to make you plainly understand how much we think our selves engaged to our Sovereign and how mindful we are of our Allegiance Olivaires having drawn out his Men divided them into three Parts on the right Wing he set 3000 Horse and 4000 Foot under the Command of Edward the noble English Cavalier on the left he gave to Robert his Lieutenant the Command of 6000 Horse and 2000 Foot ordering him not to assault the Enemy's Army before Edward had joyn'd his Battalions In the Night with all the silence possible he approach'd the Camp and in the Morning he bid the Drums beat and the Trumpets sound and heading the main Body himself he gave the Adversary Battel The first that advanced to encounter Olivaires was a fierce Irish Captain Stout and Gallant and engaging with him two such grand Blows were given that the very Earth shook both their Horses fell and their thick Launces â—ere broken into a thousand splinters Olivaires quickly without any harm â—eceived rose up on his Feet But â—he dismay'd Captain with a piece â—f Launce sticking in his Breast reâ—ain'd on the ground half dead And â—â—ddenly did begin a sharp and terriâ—le Fight every one valiantly labourâ—ng his Sword and slashing round â—bout him mean time Edward on the â—ight Wing made but a bad Encounâ—er of it Whereupon he begun to â—quare his Ranks And they of the City beholding an Army favourable â—o 'em did great damage to their Reer â—utting them in mighty Confusion This Assault being made in little â—ime Robert during it was in the Flank and so violent was the Onset and so briskly did they bear up to them that the Enemy constrained by Olivaires's Valour who having remounted like a Lion made a vast Shammels and fresh Assistances coming in from all Parts being able to make small Opposition to their Fury fled Whereupon the Kings ran to catch their Bridles and having obtained a Port enter'd a Ship for sail Great was the Mortality of that day's Action about Four thousand English having been slain and we may venture to affirm it near Twenty thousand of the Irish King's Forces So Olivaires after Victory dispos'd himself to resettle the Army to take care of the Wounded to bury the Dead and to celebrate with Encomiums and Triumphs the valorous Deceased acknowledging himself eternally obliged to the Living for their admirable Fortitude and Courage and in a word for the Victory CHAP. XLII Of the News which the King receiv'd of the Victory and of Olivaires who resolves to pursue the Enemy COuriers were quickly dispatch'd away to Court with Olivaires's Letters signifying the Victory unto the King and having in a short time arrived at the Palace and the News presented the City and Kingdom were fill'd with great rejoycing and with Bonefires Feasts and Triumphs they gave mighty demonstrations of their gladness Helena was much comforted and a thousand times read over her dear Olivaires's Letter whom she lodged in her heart day and night And another thousand by day discours'd with her Father of him in that respectful and decent manner as was agreeable repeating to one another their Dreams and had great satisfaction betwixt themselves On the other part Olivaires seemed not to himself to have performed any thing in putting the Enemy to flight and was resolved to make a total destruction of and perfect conquest over them Wherefore considering the slaughter he had made among them he perceived they could not readily recruit their Army fortify their Cities act defensively and offensively and so he resolved to follow them His Soldiers therefore being refreshed he caus'd them with quick dispatch to make a great many Ships and having set his Army all in Order in a large Campaign he went on Horseback into the midst of 'em and thus spake Most Noble Cavaliers Valiant Combatants my Brethren and Friends I think my self very happy for having been Spectator of your Valours and that the Enemy has felt your hands how rough they are and for this acknowledge kind Stars have shed their benign influence on me But ah what have we done in banishing them out of our Territories We must expel them their own if it be a right Victory there will be seen our Puissance in such an enterprize there will your Hardiness Valour and Vertue appear Are you pleased Brethren and dear Friends that we pursue them and banish them out of their own Dominions Are you pleased that we should revenge our selves on so great an Affront their presumption to have driven us from our State will it not be a just recompence to expel them theirs to take from them their Kingdoms their Cities and Life Whom would you have to take vengeance for this Insolence offer'd if we our selves have not resentment enough to do it how can you imagine our Posterity should have a warmth for it Our Sovereign the King seeing our brave and victorious Courage will know how much we are the loving Children of the Father of our Country and will
be very grateful to and abundantly reward us Which of you my Lords Knights and Brethren will follow me in this Enterprize for gaining that which indeed hitherto we have not obtained Then all with one voice answer'd they would follow him and would lay down a thousand lives for the Crown of their Sovereign Olivaires seeing their willingness gave them many thanks and told them that by this Adventure they should surprize and come upon the Kings unawares and that he feared not by their Fortitude and Valour to acquire a glorious Conquest CHAP. XLIII Olivaires leaves England and enters the Dominions of the Kings of Ireland and lays siege to a strong City and of his other Sieges and Fights THE Ships and every thing being fitted and all things whatever were needful in readiness carrying Tents and Pavilions for the Camp the next morning Olivaires â—eparted and imbarqu'd his whole Army wherefore with a prosperous Gale he arrived in few days at an Irish Port and got on Land sooner than he could have expected A fair Town stood upon the Haven compassed with Walls and when the Inhabitants perceived that such an Armado was coming upon them they shut and barr'd their Gates and put themselves in posture of defence but quickly was the Town taken and they put to the Sword the same did Olivaires to two more as also to a third all large Towns so that he struck fear into the hearts of all the Country and many Cities surrendered themselves without resistance and many of the Kingdom beholding the brave Valour of Olivaires and contracting a love for him went over to his side and fought against their own Sovereigns Olivaires in his march came unto a strongly fortifi'd Pass where 't was necessary for him to take a strong and well-garrison'd City in which was the Son of the King who was kill'd at the Turnament therefore he lay siege round it and gave it a brisk Assault but could not conquer it and many were slain on both sides Mean while News flew all over the Kingdom and came to the Ear of the Kings that Olivaires was come to the great damage of their Crowns and that he had taken many places that he would also take this City Therefore giving order instantly for refitting the Soldiery Foot and Horse and marching away with those they had in readiness the Kings went to relieve the City and engage with the Enemy Olivaires having put his Army in good posture and ordered his Battalions in his Campaign expected the Adversary's Assault being well prepared in right method and full of courage 't was in the morning when the Kings came upon them and now the Armies confront each other so the Drums beat and to Arms. Olivaires confiding in God's Assistance and also in derived Valour thought fit to present himself before them and to challenge the Kings to single Combat one after another judging it most certain that after he had defeated their Chiefs 't would be easie to give a great blow to their vast Army with his little One. So he commanded 'em to leave off pitching their Tents and when he had fought one or two of the Kings the Army moved to engage the Enemy and taking a strong Launce and flourishing it he exposed himself to publick view One of the Kings more fool-hardy than truly valorous yet in his own Conceit stouter than the rest hastily mounted his Horse and with his Launce on his Thigh went to meet Olivaires turning about and in the strokes they gave each other the King received a sharp blow whereby both Man and Horse were cast to the ground so he was quickly taken Prisoner Then a second King suddenly assaulted Olivaires and he was laid wounded on the ground And now a cruel Battel was joyn'd and for divers Hours the mad contest lasted Olivaires's Captains seemed so many Thunderbolts which terrifi'd and struck down the Enemy And Olivaires by his mighty strength made a wide lane before him infusing Courage into his Soldiers reducing them into Order and running about here and there as was need The Noon time of Day being past and the Armies being wearied the Kings betook themselves to flight seeing Olivaires making a â—arge Shammels of their Army So they gave their Horses the Reins and Routed and Conquered and with all speed fled away All the Field run with Blood and all the Victor's Soldiers were smeared with humane Gore So the one Party fled and â—he other withdrew and Night comâ—ng on the Battel ceased Olivaires â—efore he would sleep caused the Wounded to be taken care of and â—ut in Order the remainder of his â—oldiers and made them refresh themselves and take some repose After having bid the Trumpet sound he said Invincible Cavaliers now is the time to compleat the Victory and pursue the Foe who unexpectedly flies before us Therefore whoever among you either loveth Me or is solicitous of his own Honour let him follow Me. And so early in the Morning he came upon the timerous Enemy and having dexterously drawn his to a head he entered among 'em ever as he went on encouraging his Forces Whereupon the Kings and their Army being surprised at the sudden sounding of the Trumpet were mightily afraid And those fighting Manfully and these defending themselves Cowardly they were almost all slain and discomfited But the Kings being made Prisoners and some principal Persons besides remained alive Thus they became Masters of their State and Kingdom wherein much Treasure was found but all was distributed among the Soldiers for Olivaires like a noble General kept nothing to himself CHAP. XLIV The other King being in a strong City the same is besieged by Olivaires and surrenders to his Favor and Mercy THE Army having taken some repose and being refresh'd anâ— enliven'd Olivaires gave Order 〈◊〉 pitch their Tents and Pavilions round â—he City wherein was that other King with many Guards So putâ—â—ng fire to the Gates scaling the Walls making Engines of portable Wood to annoy those which were within they made assault against it â—or two Days and on the third took 〈◊〉 putting all to the Sword that had â—ot yielded themselves up to them Olivaires suddenly commanded a Proclamation That the Churches and the Ladies they should not violate or disorder which accordingly was obey'd The King when he saw the City taken and his Captains slain and Soldiers retired into a strongly fortify'd Castle and seemingly inexpugnable But the indefatigable diligence of Olivaires and couragiousness of his Soldiers gave many Batteries against it which wearied out the King who finding no way for escape yielded himself to Olivaires craving his Parâ—on for his refractoriness Olivaires â—â—ceived him kindly embraced him gave him his Life and him he made Prisoner together with the other Kings under strong and well-armed Guards However Olivaires ordered those Royal Captives to be more waited and attended on than his owâ— Person and he continually entertained them with Feasts honorably and aâ— his own Table The
notice how Two most fierce and overgrown old wild Boars did much destroy and lay waste their Country so that they obtain'd but little Fruits or good from their ground At the hearing of which news Olivaires upon his own account and also in prospect of their future advantage was hugely pleased and also gave them presents for the same and immediately he ordered his Hunters to make themselves ready their Toils and all things else that were necessary for such sort of Game So after Dinner Olivaires mounts his Horse and goes for the place and lodged that night at a homely Village the â—ight following Helena lying alone saw in a Dream the White Knight appear to her that gave her the Ring who presented to her fancy a fierce Lioness Assaulting Olivaires in the Chace and so hurting him that he â—emained Wounded on the spot then â—anished Whereupon suddenly with â—â—ill screeches she awak'd and waâ—â—n'd also the Ladies that lay by her and having told them her Dream she also after related it to the King assuring her self it was over-true some sinister Accident would befal Olivaires and therefore dispatched Couriers away to give Olivaires intelligence of it that he might proceed no further toward the Chace who quickly as swift as the wind went after him to overtake him and overjoy'd they were when they found him safe and cheerful and the whole account they gave him both by Letters and word of Mouth The advice pleased Olivaires who yet went on for the Chace as one who feared not any thing being within his own Realm and among People that loved and were observant of him Then he dismiss'd the Messengers and bid them let Helena know That he would be with her the following Evening So she rested well content for that he would take care of himself and was at present in safe condition CHAP. LII One of the Irish Kings coming to pay Tribute to the King of England finds Olivaires alone in a dismal grove who transported with desire of catching his Prey is severed from his Company and taken Prisoner THE Hunters by break of day went with Olivaires to the â—lace where were shewed them the â—odges of those great and fierce Boars â—nd the Hunters as need required â—eing separated to their particular â—tands and passes the Dogs went into â—he thick of the Grove to fetch them â—orth from their Dens Olivaires â—tood in a more common and trodden â—ath in expectation of the Boar and â—ortune which took a pleasure in exercising and putting on hardships â—he bravest Knight of the world sent â—he Savage his way and he smiting him and that flying and he pursuing it happened that the other Boar sallied out of the Grove and took a contrary rode wherefore the Hunterâ— having not spied that which Olivaireâ— Chac'd all went after the other and although some followed their Masterâ— so swift a race the wild Animal led them and Olivaires was much the foremost in pursuit they lost their way but lighting on a track they returned back having lost that of their Master by reason of the large fallen leaves that had strew'd the ground Olivaires still pursued the Savage and so far got engag'd in the Grove that he quite lost his way not knowing in what place what ground or whereabout he was here then comes to his mind Helena's Dream and he knew not what to think but night hasting on he traverses this way and that way and at length frees himself of the Grove but far enough he was from any dwellings and he saw coming far off a great many Horse which much cheer'd him thinking they were his own company but â—hen they came near for 't was beâ—inning to be dark he found it to be â—e of the Irish Kings King Maqueâ—â—'s Son who was slain at the Tiltâ—â—g and knowing Olivaires he cry'd â—o this is he who kill'd the King â—y Father wherefore let him be 〈…〉 z'd since Fortune has offer'd me so 〈…〉 r an opportunity Olivaires having â—ly his Javelin puts himself yet â—â—ary in posture of defence but it â—â—aking after he had slain some of â—â—em he was taken and bound 〈◊〉 under a strong Guard conducted 〈◊〉 the night toward the Realm of â—â—land and in a well-fortified and 〈…〉 y Tower was committed to the â—â—vernor's custody having charge to â—â—p him strict Prisoner till the King's â—urn neither suffering to talk with 〈◊〉 see any body and the Irish King 〈◊〉 on his Journey to the King of â—â—land's Court and having done his 〈…〉 age he stayed a little for that 〈…〉 aw the Court in mighty Affliction and Grief because Olivaires could no where be found and then he returned home Olivaires was in a bottom room of a most high Tower and much afflicted he prayed unto God that he would consolate his Lady and the King and also aid him in his miserable condition One time the Governor of the Fortress carrying him Meat himself took great notice of him and was amazed at his admirable Aspect and moved with Compassion said Sir you be some noble Cavalier I am so replied Olivaires Then subjoin'd the other Make me Promise that you will not endeavouâ— escape out of the Fortress and I wilâ— free you from this close Confinement 〈◊〉 Olivaires told him he would not on his Royal word for said he I am Olivaires then he brought him out and gave him the whole Castle for his spacious Prison with infinite Caresses Had I well Chastiz'd my Enemy said Fortune's harass'd Knight and beeâ— more severe with him for his Audaâ— city I should not for life given have received a death but since it so pleases the grand disposer Lo I patiently bear it Mean while the King and Helena made search through the whole Kingdom through all the shady Groves and remote Woods among the obscure Caverns Recesses and Valleys and o're all the high Mounâ—ains for Olivaires One time fearing â—he might be fallen into a swoon anoâ—her lest some wild Beast might have â—evoured him sometime thinking that Highway-men might have lighted on him and slain him At length not getting any news of him they gave themselves up wholly to Grief and Lamentations and those that had seen Helena would rather have â—hought her a wild Beast than a Woman whilst she pluck'd off her Hair â—cratch'd her Face rent her Garments screek'd out aloud and would â—or take either any Meat or Rest The â—ing was astonished and struck alâ—ost dead with this Accident and all Fashion and good Order neglected the Court became a melancholy heedless and confused Crew for every one much feared the life both of Helena and the King so excessive was their Affliction and the dolors and sighs that proceeded from their breasts did so affect and trouble the Lords and Knights as almost to break their hearts He who had heard the praises Olivaires had given him of the King and seen what a blow of discontent this Accident had given the Crown would have been very sensible his Majesty