be when we have well Din'd before This thought of the Dukes made every body Laugh likewise and all thereupon were of Opinion that there were false Moralls in the World as also of different kinds don't ye know continu'd the Duke that those Thieves who do not kill have one kind of Morality and such Women as cannot Cuckold their Husbands another Both these pretend an Obligation to 'em for not driving things to Extremity so that almost every body has a Morality according to his own Fancie I likewise am resolv'd to have one of my Choosing and intend Faithfully to obey the Dictates it Inspires You have had one a good while my Lord reply'd the Duchess which has fill'd your Head top full of generous Notions and Madam quoth the Duke interrupting her being unwilling to enter into particulars of his Conduct with his Wife nothing confirms Friend ship more than a lasting Conversation and t is therefore that when I was a Boy having an Extraordinary Kindness for the fair Cephisa the amiable Object will never be root'd out of my mind What a malicious Creature art thou Prince quoth the Duke of Bourbon clapping him on the Shoulder to endeavour to make my Sister believe thou couldst have a greater respect for any other than her who Loves thee so dearly Prince reply'd the Duke angrily If I had but thought I should ever have been a slave to a Woman I would never have been Marry'd but as it is let my Wife Pursue her Inclinations and I 'll follow mine He had no sooner spoke this but he instantly left the Company with out so much as a Word more Ah! cry'd the Prince of Conde dissembling his Displeasure see here is a Prince rash and Violent but who nevertheless being Young there is some hopes of his reforming All the company agreed with his Highness and afterwards taking a Turn or two in the Garden plac'd themselves in a green Arbour which might better be call'd a little Isle being surrounded by a small Stream which fell thence into a green turfed Bason causing an agreable Murmure but which nevertheless did not interupt the Conversation a whit Every body except the Dutchess of Maine was affected with this pleasant Retirement but she Melancholy and Heavy soon return'd to her Apartment I must needs be very unhappy said she sighing to one of her Confidentes to have a Person of the Duke of Maine's humour to my Husband who 't is plain will never fail to follow the Footsteps of his Father Lewis the Great and his Mother Madam Montespan who is the most Voluptuous and Libidinous Woman in the World and if I had but minded my Grand-Father the deceas'd Prince of Conde who had a most distinguishing Head and could foresee things at the greatest distance I had never consented to this Mariage which is like to give me so much trouble and Vexation Madam answered the Confident a great deal of Care must be taken in the Choice of what one Pitches upon and likewise to know why we prefer one thing to another that we may be able to give an Account when requir'd If any body blame your choice whose fault is it Your illustrious Spouse perhaps pleas'd you without knowing whether the esteem your profess'd for him was well grounded or not we must know how to limit the bounds of our Passion and Admiration without suffering it to transport us beyond Reason Thou sayst true my dear Marchioness reply'd the Dutchess I did not examine far enough into the Duke's Temper before I suffer'd my self to be overcome by his Wit Address and a certain foolish wanton Air which we Women are not able to withstand And lastly into his false pretended Love which nevertheless he swore a Thousand times to be sincere and without Ceasing Ah Madam answer'd the Confident these are the ordinary means that render our well meaning bubbled by the Treachery and Perjury of Men who never fail to deceive us whenever it comes into their Power No doubt your Highness has shew'd but too much Fondness and Kindness to my Lord Duke There would have been less danger in giving some Innocent Proofs of your Passion to a Lover who for Family Reasons could not marry than to shew so much Love to a Husband I have experienced what I assert to my loss and therefore I hope may be the better Credited I own Madam reply'd the Dutchess that Marriage seems to me a Rock design'd to Ship wrack Humane Felicity as likewise that 't is my Opinion Love ought only to be a Sojourner with us during our Infancy and that we would do well only to marry Fools or great Lords to keep up our Families But to enter the Matrimonial Noose with design either to meet with Happiness or Content is an extream Folly True Madam answer'd the Marchioness All the Attendants of Hymen are vain Hopes and tedious Disappointments and that to be truly Happy in this World the best way were to turn Philosopher that is to enjoy the present take no Care for the future and to make Indifference and Quiet our chief Favourites These Lessons reply'd the Dutchess Mournfully were admirable for those that could Practice 'em but on the contrary How many do we Daily see in the World who make a thousand Resolutions never to marry Yet by a fatal Lot most opposite to their Intentions Course the Bridal-God about like Mad People till by that Ignis fatuus they are led through Brakes and Briers into the very Whirlpool of all Misery Madam reply'd the Lady don 't your Highness know which is the best Path to follow in this Labyrinth you should never suffer your self to be Guided by Passion but altogether by Reason and Interest But answer'd the Dutchess What shall they then do that Love has the greatest Power over Constraint you know is an inexpressible Torment I grant you that reply'd the Lady but where their Misfortune is so great as to favour a Man before they have marry'd him he will not fail afterwards to believe that they can have the same kindness for any Body else When we design to take any Man to our Arms we ought only to acquaint him with our esteem for his Merit and conceal the Love we have for his Person Will a Man think you Madam interposed the Count of Tolouse walking up to 'em be content with such Indifference I have Over-heard continu'd he part of your Conversation I cant tell that Sir reply'd the Lady Smiling Men I grant you must be made alittle much of otherwise they 'l scon desert Nevertheless continu'd he In case of Husbands it must needs be a grievous Misfortune to an honest Man to dote upon a Woman whose slame is wholy Extinguish'd But for my part I declare my self an utter Enemy to Marriage and my reason is because the last Mistress I had play'd me false when I afterwards observing in her Eyes that she had a mind to come on again I thank'd her kindly for her Love and sung
Camilla Laughing for my part I can see no such Hieroglyphicks Here on this very Spot bright Angel reply'd the Duke here you may instantly see me bury'd and this is what I would have carv'd on my Tomb. Here Lies the most Unfortunate of Lovers who expir'd at the Feet of the Cruel and sure my Lord there was never such an Epitaph as this before added Camilla Interrupting him and besides wrapt up in such Terms and to have these effects Expir'd at the Feet of the Cruel c. Ha! Ha! continu'd she laughing why did your Lordship ever hear of any one that really dy'd for Love Certainly if there were any such he ought to be extreamly priz'd being the only Phoenix of his kind that ever was Why if this were so another must Consequently arise out of his Ashes and to besure then eâ—â—ry Woman would immediately put in to be his Mistress Faith Madam reply'd the Duke pleasantly he would then have enough to do to Content ' em How did your Ladyship say All Women Alas Poor Phoenix he would be well employ'd sure to hover his Wings over so many Beauties For my part I should think one or two sufficient to keep a Man considerably in play Take then two for your share reply'd Camilla smiling and moreover choose her you like How may I take any notice of your Words Madam continu'd the Duke singing as follows Youthful Iris Swore to Love me But why did youthful Iris Swear Not that she meant e're to approve me But shew how Fickle Women are And Men I dare assure your Highness reply'd Camilla are yet more Fickle for they change with the Wind and Sail with the Tide A Feaver Green sickness Small-Pox or some lesser Evil makes them quit their Mistâ—esses Incontinently and if you but ask 'em the Reason of their so suddain alteration they 'll tell you that if she could but have continu'd her Charms they would never have vaâ—y'd their Love so that we find Gentlemen how extreamly our Sex is obâ—ig'd to you to forsake us at the very fiâ—st Approach of a Misfortune This mâ—kes me of Opinion that you are more in Love with your selves than us and that we are not a little unwise when we have any thing to do with you Why Madam â—â—ply'd the Duke iâ— all Women were of your Mind Love would be altogether idle such a cold and wild Constâ—tution would frighten him and he would be forc'd to return to Spain or Italy from whence he came Is Love then a Spaniard or Italian Sir quoth Camilla feigning Ignorance Yes Madam reply'd the Prince he had his Birth and is always best supply'd in hot Countries But have a care Exclaim'd he I am almost gon already What a Dart have you just now shot into my Heart Your Imagination wounded you only reply'd Camilla Laughing And you may be term'd Embevecido that is drunk with Love for your Highnesses Passion is wrought so very High that I can't fancy you any ways in your Witts and therefore this Spanish Word may very properly be apply'd to your Condition Call me what you Please Madam reply'd the Duke and bestow upon me whatever Qualities you fancy I shall never take it amiss providing you 'll have but the least kindness for me Call me Jack Tom what you think fit or Snubbee as our late Chancellour did his Mistress it will be all one on the foregoing Conditions These familiar Terms please infinitely in Love The King our August Monarch would never permiâ— his Mistris La Valiere to pay any distant Respect to him nay he would have her always call him my Life my Love my Joy and by other such-like endearing Expressions But nevertheless I cannot promise my self so great favour and perhaps must despair at last of your ever Loving me as long as I live Will you then Despair so suddenly Prince reply'd she with a tender Air Matters do not move so much sure to your Disencouragement and particularly what then cry'd out the Duke transported most Adorable Creature will 't thou then give me but the least glimpse of farther Hopes What welcom News to my Lovesick Soul Permit me a little to embrace thee as an Acknowledgment of the Pleasure I have conceiv'd upon this extraordinary Juncture Camilla who was naturally good humour'd could not refuse his Highness some small favours which yet did not in the least entrench upon her Honour but which nevertheless a little grated her Modesty for tho' the Duke was extreamly civill yet she could not but Blush often in his Arms which might very well have enflam'd his Highness to some farther Attempt had not the superiour of St. Cir sent one of her Ladies to see what Camilla was doing This Sister Hyppolita reported to Madam Maintenon that Camilla was engag'd at hawty tawty with the Duke of Maine and moreover that she observ'd her Cloaths were a little rumpled How quoth Madam Maintenon in an angry Tone will she â—hen suffer herself to be rumpled by that Prince Does the Wind blow in that Quarter I 'll soon teach her how to behave herself and as speedily show His Highness the way home The Prince believing Hyppolita would give no favourable account of his Conduct thought fit to endeavour to prevent her Malice and therefore met Madam Maintenon as she was coming towards ' em Madam quoth he I question not but you have been told wonderfull Matters but I 'll assure your Ladyship there is little or no Truth in 'em I know very well Sister Hyppolita's Malice who loves to make more of a thing a Thousand times than it is She told me indeed Sir answerd the Governess smiling that you had towz'd Camilla about to some purpose You must needs know of what Consequence this may be in my House tho' at bottom I dont think there can be any great harm in such Waggerys providing that you understand me I do Madam reply'd the Duke laughing but I 'll Assure you there has been no such thing intended here Your basely mistrusted however My Lord answerd the Governess for our good Sister Hyppolita told me quite another story It may be so quoth the Duke But can you think Madan continu'd his Highness that this good Sister would not suffer herself to be rumpled sometimes as well as another No certainly reply'd Madam Maintenon for the Nuns of St. Lewis renounce the Pleasures of Love by their Vows Good reply'd the Duke of Maine laughing but don 't your Superiourship know the Flesh may somtimes contradict the Spirit For my part I can't believe the Sisters of St. Lewis are so very Insensible as you would make 'em and for example I have observ'd Sister Angel send her Eys abroad a Piqueering thro' the Grates more than once That 's but your groundless fancy my Lord quoth Madam Maintenon she is the most devout of us all that poor Girl implores our Holy Patron Night and Day to sortify her mind against Carnal Thoughts which might else interrupt her Devotion The
your Ladyship's Daughters who in my Opinion are both perfect Beauties Madam Montespan held her peace and look'd upon the King who said with a Smile I shall make it my business to keep the Royal Family quiet Soon after the Conversation ended and Company separated Whilst others were industrious in speaking in the Duke of Maine's Favour he was busie in improving all Opportunities to give Proofs of his Passion to Madamoiselle de Chartres who was inclined to receive them kindly when she could do it without being observed One day he had the good Fortune to find her alone in her Closet and as he entertain'd her with the Force and Extent of his Love Prince reply'd Madamoiselle with a languishing Air What would you have me do for you What I would have you do for me answer'd the Duke with a passionate Eagerness I would have you love me illustrious Princess if I can ever be so fortunate as to please you Alas cry'd she with a blush how unkind and cruel you are Why would you not tell me you had a Design upon my Heart The Prince perceiving she spoke with so much Sweetness and good Nature cast himself at her Feet and told her transported with Love Divine Creature if my Fate could ever be so happy as to here he stop'd being interupted by Mauritia one of the Princess's Maids She being a Person of an easie Temper and one that the Princess entrusted with all her Secrets the Duke pursu'd his passionate Conversation The same Day the Duke of Orleans made a splendid Ball in the Royal Palace where the Duke of Maine appear'd in a very agreeable Disguise that he might the better entertain Madamoiselle with all the sweet endearing Expressions that his Love could suggest to him He was taken notice of by the Duke of Orleans who told the King of it but he made as if he did not hear him The Ball being over the Duke of Maine withdrew to his Apartment more deeply in Love than ever and abandon'd himself to all the Torments and Pleasures of his new-born Passion His Mind was still floating and toss'd betwixt Hope and Fear and distracted by two violent Passions He debated within himself what course he had best to take to compass his grand Design of marrying Madamoiselle de Chartres in which he met with many Obstacles and Difficulties He often consulted with his Mother who assur'd him that she never miss'd any Opportunity to speak to the King about it adding with Sorrow that her Influence upon that Monarch was not so prevailing as before Nothing Dear Son cry'd she with a Sigh nothing is constant in this World and the kindest Prince that is cannot always love the same Object But yet Madam answer'd that young Prince Constancy ought to be inseparable from a great Mind since there can be no true Felicity without it That 's true Dear Child reply'd Madam Montespan but Kings have their real Failings as well as the rest of Mortals and our great Monarch tho' in all other respects accomplish'd has still the Frailty of being changeable in Love He is infinitely pleas'd with variety of which Madam la Valiere made me but too sensible before she turn'd Nun. Besides I am afraid my Enemies whisper in the King's Ear what some Court-Flatterers told formerly one of the Kings of Persia who was constant to one of his Mistresses meerly upon the score of good Manners and Conscience That it was below his Grandeur to mind whether what he did was decent or undecent just or unjust since his Pleasure ought to be the only Rule and Standard of Decency and Justice This Madam reply'd the Duke of Maine is the common way of pleasing Princes Every thing must yield to their Desires surrounded as they are by a Crowd of Flatterers they can never know themselves Their Failings are artfully painted and varnish'd their Actions heightened and advanc'd by false Lights and Glitterings and their smaller Vertues canonized I know a World of pernicious Courtiers who never approach the Throne but they poison it with their intoxâ—cating Tongues most fatal to the Mind of a well-born Monarch Flattery said Madam Montespan does not stop at the Throne but diffuses and spreads it self through all the Branches of the Court You know the Dutchess of She has daily a Crowd of Admirers at her Feet who do but play the Fool with her and persuade her that she can contend for Beauty with the Angels That her Merit is infinite and capable of enchanting the whole World and with such like Fooleries they fill her Mind with pleasing chimerical Fancies But let the good Lady have as many Admirers as she pleases all their fine Speeches and flattering Nonsence will never conceal her Homeliness and Vulgar Carriage The Duke was a going to say some pleasing thing or other upon the Picture his Mother had made of the Dutchess but was interrupted by the Abbot Morcau who came to visit Madam Montespan and to give her an Account of a Commission she had given him that did not much become the Gravity of his Character The Duke of Maine taking this opportunity to leave his Mother went to the Wood of Boulogne to entertain his enamour'd Fancy with the Charms and Graces of his Mistress Sitting on a little rising ground which he found very convenient he revolv'd in his Mind all that a great Mind can think of to carry on the Scheme of his Design Some time after he went into the thickest part of the Wood and wrote in his Table Book the Copy of a Letter which he afterwards sent to Madamoiselle which contained these Words I Find at last Incomparable Princess that of all the Torments in Nature none is so quick and violent as that of Love 'T is a Pain that gnaws and preys upon our very Souls And if you do not compassionate my Condition I must soon die at your Feet the cruellest Death imaginable My Sufferings are not to be exprest And generally great Beauties like your self do but laugh at the Pains which themselves cause But as this is a most inhumane and unnatural Cruelty so you must have a Care most lovely and beautiful Person not to provoke the Wrath of the Sovereign of all Hearts who sooner or later punishes those that are insensible I know you stick at some Considerations but alas Love excludes Consideration as Consideration excludes Love You are not unacquainted with this Philosophy since there never was a more diseerning and penetrating Princess than your self Upon the reading of this Letter Madamoiselle could not forbear Laughing at the witty insinuating way of the Duke to engage her to Love He gives himself a needless trouble cry'd she with a Sigh to perswade me to Love him Alas I find I Love him too much already But I am afraid my Inclinations must be contradicted and that I am destin'd for some greater Person than the Duke of Maine Madame who over-heard her pronounce that Name came on a sudden into Madamoiselle's
Chamber and said to her Princess What 's the meaning of this I perceive the Duke of Maine has made a strong Impression on your Heart which ought to be the Price of something above the Son of an Unfaithful Woman In Germany and several other Countries they look upon such Persons with utmost Contempt and had rather Match with a common Gentleman than with a Prince basely Born Madamoiselle made no answer to her Mothers Advices but only fetch'd some Sighs which convinc'd Madame that she had a great Tenderness for the Duke Nay then 't is plain you Love him said she with a severe Tone but who is it that has rais'd so injurious a Passion in your Breast And how can a Princess like your self thus poorly stint her Desires when she can have her Choice of many Illustrious Princes In short assure your self I 'll never consent to such Baseness said the Dutchess of Orleans leaving Madamoiselle in the deepest concern for the contempt she express'd for her Lover This young Princess was irresolute and perplex'd when Mauritia came in to whom she unbosom'd all her Sorrows This Maid though of a soft and easie Temper as I said before had still a great deal of Judgment and Discretion and was not wanting in giving good Advice to Madamoiselle upon this Occasion The Princess having heard her out with great attention told her Alas my Dear if you knew what strange Motions I have to struggle with you would pity me Madam reply'd Mauritia how is it possible that a Person that has so much strength of Mind as your Royal Highness should be thus hurried and transported by her Passions Do but resist their first Impressions and be sure of Victory You do not speak as if you felt what you say Dearest Mauritia reply'd Madamoiselle with a laughing Air perhaps you never Lov'd in your Life or if you did 't was so faintly that you can scarce distinguish betwixt Indifference and Love I confess Madam said Mauritia that when a Woman loves in good earnest 't is a hard matter for her to command her self But however we must be rul'd by Reason and your Highness is sensible that the Duke of Orleans your Father will never suffer you to Marry the Duke of Maine were he the most perfect and Accomplish'd Person in the World Barbarous Duty cry'd Madamoiselle cruel Reason you do but rack and torture a Heart that calls for your Assistance Why said she looking upon a Nightingale she had in her Chamber why cannot we live like those innocent Creatures who follow the inclinations of Nature without vexatious Fears Madamoiselle left her Confident and went to walk alone in a Solitary Place The Duke of Maine who burn'd with Impatience to know the Effects of his Letter and being inform'd where she was met her there in some few Moments Madamoiselle was a little surpriz'd at the sight of him and changing Colour told him Duke you come in very good time to divert me from a Thought which was like to carry me very far May a Man be so bold reply'd the Prince as to ask you the Subject of that Thought which undoubtedly was a pleasing one Prince answer'd Madamoiselle with a little Concern and Disorder you had the greatest share in it Is it possible Madam cry'd the Duke transported with Love is it possible Divine Creature that my good Fortune can be so great Perhaps said Madamoiselle with a Smile you did not expect to hear News that flatters all Hearts you men love to please No question Madam said the Prince especially so Illustrious a Princess who is the Admiration of the Universe and the Delight of the Court. Do not rally your Friends reply'd Madamoiselle giving him her Hand which the Duke kept close to his Lips for a quarter of an Hour without speaking one word What means this Silence said Madamoiselle Laughing has some secret Charm robb'd you of your Speech Yes incompâ—rable Princess I am no more my self cry'd the Duke grasping Madamoiselle's Knees my Fortune is so great and uncommon that I cannot but be amaz'd at it Your good Fortune is not yet compleat said she with Sorrow If I was at my own Disposal I would soon resolve upon the Choice I am to take But you know I depend upon the tyrannizing Authority of a Father Alas Madam said the Prince making some steps backwards why did not you leave me in this pleasing Error And why would you acquaint me with my Misfortune My Heart did already flatter me with the hopes that you only depended on your self and that I was to be one day the happiest Man alive He could not make an end of these Words without falling at Madamoiselle's Feet who had much ado to recover him out of his Surprize You grow Pale and Faint Prince said Madamoiselle perceiving that he began to come to himself You want Courage where there is most occasion Are Words able to shake your Constancy thus 'T is with a bleeding Heart that I tell you this News no less fatal to my quiet than your own But assure your self that what I do now or shall be oblig'd to do hereafter will be much against my inclination The Duke of Maine stood Speechless all this while and left Madamoiselle because he saw the Duke of Orleans making towards them whom he knew would not have been very well pleased to find him with his Daughter in so retired a place The Duke of Orleans who is very suspicious and distrustful got upon a rising Ground to see whether he could descry any Body going down from the Castle and having perceived the Coach of the Duke of Maine he gave Madamoiselle very sharp and biting touches upon that Subject to which Madamoiselle made no return but express'd a great deal of Discretion and Modesty Afterwards leaving his Royal Highness to his own Thoughts she withdrew to her Closet to reflect on her present condition Monsieur who is Jealous even to Fury in whatever concerns him finding that his Daughter was gone from him flew into such a Rage as cannot be express'd He enquir'd of his Men where she was and went presently to her and affecting a composed Countenance told her 't is against my Will Daughter that you entertain the Duke of Maine your Mother is extreamly displeased with it you must expect to find her Resentments break out before it be long But how can you Love a Person who upon many accounts can bring nothing but Dishonour to the Royal Family Alas Sir cry'd Madamoiselle I perceive a thousand violent thoughts in your Mind to Ruin me And I reply'd Monsieur see you 'll never be satisfied till you are in the Duke's Embraces but you will soon repent it I do nothing that I ought to be Asham'd of answer'd Madamoiselle if I have a small Esteem for the Duke of Maine I think he does deserve it and your Highness cannot blame me for it 'T is true I have just now been with him in the Arbour but 't
great deal of difference betwixt the Children of Madam la Valiere and those of Madam Montespan We cannot with Justicâ— blame the first she was a single Person thaâ— never lov'd any Man beside the King whereas the other is a perjur'd Woman who haâ— left her Husband for a Prince who begins to be weary of her I Foretold her this just Judgment of Heaven added Madam but she was then so great a Cocquet that she made no other answer but that we were born to our selves to enjoy the Pleasures of Life A very worldly and sensual Answer reply'd the Prince of Conti and which has but little of that Piety which that Lady begins to profess Truly Prince said the Dutchess she has a great deal to answer for if Adulteries be criminal Pshaw Madam reply'd the Princâ— smiling Father Anet her Confessor has a Secret to absolve all Sins and turn them into venial ones Pray what 's that you call a venial Sin said Madam interrupting him Our Reverend Father the Jesuits make several Classes of Sins some are Moral others Philosophical and others again Theological And of all those Sins Father Racine says none can damn a Man but the Theological Here the rest of the Company coming up to Madam interrupted their Conversation But what put this Princess out of Humour was the sight of the Duke of Maine who ran with all speed after these Illustrious Hunters As soon as this Prince had saluted Madamoiselle he came near Madam who gave him a very indifferent Reception He was us'd to such Crosses of Fortune and so was little concern'd at this blesides one of Madamoiselle's Smiles that he got now and then made him sufficient amends for her Mother's Frowns and made him look extreamly well pleas'd As they were riding along Madamoiselle desired him to hold a little Cane she had in her hand this Cane besides a Knot of Carnation Ribbands and several Diamonds had a fine Emrald with the Prince's Picture both a Present of the Duke's on which his Highness bestow'd a thousand Kisses unperceiv'd by all but Madamoiselle who told him as she alighted from her Horse Prince who did you think upon when you so devoutly kiss'd the Image you had in your hands about an hour ago Who could I think upon but your dear Self most Beautiâ—ul Princess answer'd the Duke since 't is your Image I love and venerate more than those of all the Saints in Paradise who perhaps could not have so much Power over me as your Highness How can that be reply'd Madamoiselle You know I cure no Disâ—aâ—es but rather cause Suffâ—rings if I may believe you I confess Madam râ—ply'd the Duke with an Air that made Madamoiselle laugh your Highness is more apt to make a wretched Mortal languish than He said no more and Madamoiselle who saw that Madam observ'd them took his Silâ—nce as a sign of his Love and Râ—spect The Company being separated and retir'd to their respective Houses the Duke of Maine reflected on his ill Fortune with respect to Monsieur and Madam the Dutchess oâ— Orleans who look'd upon him with Contempt He resolv'd at last to speak to the King about it but his Majesty told him That he was not like ever to compass what he aim'd at That Monsiâ—ur design'd his Daughter for a Monarch and that he had already spoke in his Favour but could not prevail But Sir reply'd the Duke I dare flatter my self that the Princess does not hate me I am apt to believe it said the King but it is not enough to have her Consent you must have Monsieur and Madam's Good will too if you propose to be happy But Duke added his Majesty be rul'd by me since you have a mind to marry disengage your self from Madamoiselle de Chartres and bend your Thoughts on Madamoiselle de Bourbon who is a lovely and deserving Princess For tho the Prince of Conde her Grandfather be not vèry well pleas'd with the Match yet I am sure the Duke of Anguâ—en will not be against it Sir reply'd the Duke of Maine methinks I should like Madamoiselle de Condé the Eldest Sister a great deal better Marriages are not govern'd by Choice and do not you see said the King that she 's design'd for the Prince of Roche-sur-yon But Sir return'd the Duke can't one serve that Prince's turn They say he has a Design upon Madamoâ—selle de Tours my Sister Yes reply'd the King but I believe the other will carry it and that Madamoâ—selle de Tours your Sister will marry the Duke of Bourbon All the Reasons the King did use were not able to divert the Duke's Thoughts from Madamoiselle de Condé in whom he found a thousand Accomplishments and as soon as he had left his Majesty he went to pay her a Visit overwhelm'd with a deep Melancholy for being in a manner forc'd to quit Madamoiselle whom he so much esteem'd and admir'd After he had been some time in this languishing Condition the old Duke of Condé died and his Death freed him from a potent Enemy because his Highness had always had a mortal Hatred for all the Children of Madam Montespan The Duke of Maine being thus at liberty and pretty well recover'd of the amorous Torments he felt for Madamoiselle de Chartres he made for a long time his earnest and constant Addresses to Madamoiselle de Condé But when this lovely Princess began to be enamour'd with the Charms of the Duke of Maine she was as it were snatch'd away from his Arms to be given io the Prince of Roche-sur-yon The Duke is mad at the Disappointment he raves he weeps pulls of his Hair grows weary of Life and swears he 'll revenge the wrong done him in his Rival's Blood The Dauphin hearing of iâ— acquaints the King with these frantick Designs who presently orders the Duke of Maine to be under Arrest till the mad Fit be over While he was thus confin'd he could not enjoy a minute's rest till he had disclos'd his Passion to his Mistress and assur'd her how unfortunate he was in his absence from her Here is a faithful Copy of a Letter he sent to her to that purpose I Have had all along most adorable Princess a thousand secret Surmizes that I should be never so fortunate as to enjoy you I now find my Fears are too true and that you are destin'd for another who does not deserve you so well as my self if Love can claim the first Title I am jealous even to Madness and this Proof of my Love is inseparable from great Passions Alas I am still fond of my own Errour which flatters me that you will still be the same What would not I have done if I could have had the liberty to love you for ever All the World seems combin'd to inform me of my Misfortune but alas I do resent it enough my self and I need no Informations to be convinc'd that you have perhaps forgotten me and are just ready to sacrifice
me to the cruellest of my Enemies who will never take the pains to deserve your Heart This is the only Comfort I have left And I do assure you incomparable Princess that if you can retain some Esteem for the most passionate Lover that ever was I shall never cease loving you in a manner equal to your Merit Be your self Judge how far my Love is like to go Du Maine Madamoiselle de Condé having receiv'd this Letter could not forbear to answer it as followeth PRINCE YOV express your Sentiments to me in so moving a manner that I find it impossible not to love But perhaps you speak the same to a great many others Take care of that for I can never be reconcil'd to a Heart that 's divided I will have it all or none and if that which is now design'd for me has still an Inclination for the Blew-ey'd Marchioness I swear I will You may guess at my meaning and what a Woman can do to revenge her self upon a Husband that allows her but a share in his Heart I must needs confess Dear Duke that I am Marry'd against my Inclinations The Prince of Roche-sur-yon would have done well not to have Courted this Match but since the Court will have it so I must at least look pleas'd with it Adieu Prince you know what I have in store for you Henrietta de Condé The Duke of Maine having bestow'd a thousand Kisses upon this Letter felt an unexpressible Joy in the Hopes his Mistress gave him to love him for ever which were confirm'd by the small Inclination Madnmoiselle de Condé had for the Prince of Roche sur-yon She will never love him said he to himself and I shall be Master of her Heart if no other Inclination robs me of it Women are inconstant and pleas'd with Variety But what do I say Perhaps my Princess will be true for ever at least I will believe her so since I cannot live easie without that pleasing tho' deceitful Fancy The Duke of Maine was thus entertaining his amorous Thoughts when news was brought him that the King releas'd him from his Consinement which was in one of his Friend's House This Friend was marry'd to a Lady whom I beg leave to disguise under the Name of Countess Brigid for which the Duke had a fancy not because she was handsom but by reason of some secret Charms in her Wit and Conversation that drown'd the Defects of her Person Therefore when the Duke of Maine receiv'd the news of his Freedom he made answer That he would not stir out till he had a mind to it himself since he had been consin'd against his Will about a Business that would have ended without noise The Duke of Marsillac who was charg'd with the King's Orders return'd his Answer to his Majesty who left the Duke to do as he thought fit The Countess Brigid whom this Prince had entertain'd with his Passion began to be desperately in Love him and before he went to his Command in Flanders under the Duke of Luxemburg she granted him the last Favours But in so ingaging and endearing a manner that the Duke has since confest that he never loved so intirely a Woman without Beauty The sweet Moments he spent in her Company made him forget all his past Misfortunes except Mademoiselle de Condé whose Image was always present to his Mind One Day as he was at Chantilli a House of Pleasure that formerly belong'd to Madam Montespan his Mother musing upon the Charms of that Princess he receiv'd a Letter handsomly seal'd up which came from his Countess with the following Words WHen I first begun to love my Dearest I thought my Passion was capable of no Addition but now I perceive it encreases to a stupendous and dreadful degree I know but one thing that can make me happy and that is my charming Prince That you Love me as intirely as I do you But how can I flatter my self with those pleasing hopes when I have nothing to entitle me to the possession a Heart of so much Worth as yours is Nevertheless I do not doubt but that you Love me a little since you still wear the Scarfe I made for you with my own Hands My Heart two has had a share in it that Heart that made me contrive all that I did for you when the God of Love wounded us both with so sweet so pleasing a Dart Oh! What Charms What Raptures I cannot forget those happy Moments which I cannot express unless I see you Haste then my Dear haste to renew them before you go to the Army where my Heart will attend you as a Volunteer I expect with impatience to see you to Night at the bottom of the Terrass Do not make me Languish after a thing that costs you so little The Duke of Maine who was then in Company could not forbear Laughing at the last Words of the Countess's Letter which were a Riddle to every Body but him and her that wrote them He admir'd the Witty Turns of that Lady and the tender Expressions of her Love to him and therefore did not fail to meet her at the appointed Hour The fine Moon-shine invited the impatient Countess to get upon a rising ground to look for her dear Lover who soon after agreeably surpriz'd her and told her Madam I am so possest with the Passion you have rais'd in me that had I not seen you this Night I would certainly have expir'd Then you Love me much said the Countess embracing him Now indeed I am the most fortunate Woman under the Heavens let 's make the most of your Presence and my Husband's Absence The Duke Regal'd the Countess with his agreeable Conversation and a great deal of playing and toying no less pleasing After that he went his way as all your Fortunate Lovers do that is a little in haste and as they say at Paris à la Masarine Some few Weeks after the Duke being in the Field receiv'd the News of Mademoiselle de Condé's Marriage which threw him into so deep a Melancholy that none of his Friends could guess at the Cause of his Concern He soon after fell sick of a Tertian Ague which he used to call an Amorous one His Physician perceiving that he was against all manner of Physick administred to him of a very handsome Girl for his Cure The Duke of Maine who knew the thing was secret made the best of this Prescription during the Campaign and rewarded well his Physician for his Remedy which had restor'd him to his perfect Health This Physical Girl who was in Boys Cloaths having done considerable Services to the Love-sick Duke return'd to the Doctor his lawful Master who as I am told has since perform'd wonderful Cures with his Recipe The Summer Expedition being over the Duke of Maine came back to Paris with the rest of the Generals and every one continued in his Winter-quarters to divert himself with the Ladies The Duke resumed his former
Visits to the Princess of Roche-sar-you who always receiv'd them kindly and 't was in those Visits that he fell in Love with Mademoâ—selle de Bourbon the Princess's Sister All the Thoughts of the Court were presently bent upon this Match but whether the Duke had a mind to shew his Resentment for being refused before or whether he was still fond of a single Life and averse to so solemn an Engagement his Marriage was put off till another time In this interim he fell in Love with a Marchioness that made great noise at Court both by her Youthful Beauty and Sprightly Wit The Difficulty the Duke met with was to find a way through a Multitude of Admirers that Night and Day laid close Siege to that Lady However he slatter'd himself with some hopes as most young Men arâ— apt to do upon the account of his Birth his good Meen his Wit and all that can dazle the Eyes of a young Person who enters the World and loves to be Courted The first time he saw the Marchioness whose Name you must suppose to be Cliodora was at an Acquaintance of his that Charming Person was employ'd about pickiâ—g and stringing fine Pearls for Bracelets when the Duke came into the Room where she was he approach'd her with a bashful and respectful Look and stood a little while gazing upon her not daring to speak to her but growing a little more bold he kneel'd before her and told her Madam your incomparable Charms strike dumb the boldest of Men I could not my self resist their force the first Moment I saw you I have begun to adore you My Passion is violent and if you can be so cruel as to deny me your Pity give me leave at least to expire at your Feet the most Vnfortunate of Mortals The Marchioness consider'd a little before she answer'd the Duke at last looking upon him with a Blush Prince reply'd she I am strangely surpriz'd at your Discourse your Passion can be no better than Criminal and my Duty forbids me to love you and betray my Husband Madam said the Duke with a sorrowful Look you have pronounced the Sentence of my Death and I care not to live any longer if you rob me of the Hopes of pleasing you Cliodora whose Temper was apt to receive the first Impressions of Love and who begun to feel something more than an Esteem for this new Adorer whom she thought extreamly Charming went out of the Room upon some pretence fearing lest her Tenderness should triumph over her Reason she begun to hug her self for standing this Trial without giving any hopes to her Lover But alas Love which subdues all by an irresistible force soon instam'd the Marchioness with a fire that she never felt before She loved the Duke from that very Moment but with so strong a Passion that never was a Woman so troubled and so uneasie and tho' she 's now very careful to avoid the sight of her Conqueror the God of Love whispers in her Ear that she must yield ere it be long The Duke who was still disappointed in his Endeavours to see the Marchioness abroad took one Day the Resolution to visit her at her House and had the good Fortune to meet her alone more Charming than the very Angels Cliodora was then in a careless but magnificent Deshabillee with Hair tied up with Amaranth-colour Knots and large Diamonds and her Breast half naked What Raptures did our Lover feel at the sight of so many Beauties He forgot in that moment all his other Mistresses nay he forgot his very self since he lay Speechless and as it were in a Swoon at the Feet of this lovely Person who looking upon him with languishing Eyes compleated the Duke's Defeat This Prince having recovered his Amorous Enthusiasm clos'd his Lips to one of the Fair Marchioness's Hands and bathing it with his Tears told her Madam if I commit a Crime in loving you your self are the cause of it your bright Eyes have inchanted me forgive me Divine Creature and consent to my Desires The Marchioness who by this time was in great Disorder made no answer to the Duke and sâ—emed to approve his Design by her Silence The Duke made use of so fair an opportunity to snatch some amorous Kisses Afterwards he went away fearing the Discovery of so charming and desirable a Mystery Being return'd home he reflected on his Behaviour with the Marchioness and was asham'd of his Bashfulness and Timidity I have been blest said he to himself with the sight of those Beauties that have heightned my Passion and raptur'd my Soul to the highest pitâ—h Those Eyes sparkling with Love those slâ—ming rosie Lips seem'd to bid me go farther than Respect and yet instead of improving the blest Occasion I have been at the Feet of that incomparable Person but a stupid faint hearted Lover As the Duke was thus arguing the Matter walking and fetching great Steps about the Room he spied upon his Table a Letter from the Countess Brigid who upbraided him with his Inconstancy and want of Faith The Letter contain'd what follows THE small trouble your Highnâ—ss has been at to preserve my Heart shews but too plainly how little you care for it but Heaven be prais'd I am not so blind but that I see all your Faults much better than you imagine The Wanton-ey'd malicious Marchioness that you visit so often and for whom I am told you are Mad will never be constant to you Poor Creature She 's in love with every new Face and compassionates the Sighs of all the World In a Word your Highness burns his Incense upon a very common Altar You will perhaps take ill at me what I say about your new Mistress and think that I am Jealous I own I love you so far as to be so even to fury but I will moderate my Transports and banish if possible your ingratitude from my Thoughts since it is not in my power to hate you The Duke having perus'd this Letter flung it down again upon his Table with disdain and said Do you think Madam that a Man can always love you at the same rate Faith I have other things to mind and my new born Passion finds me more business than any I ever had Besides you can boast of nothing that can come in Competition with my Charming Cliodora her Rosie Lips hr Lilly-Complexion her bright killing Eyes her sweet delicate Breast in short all her Lovely Person does Captivate my whole Heart nay I love whatever she touches and at these Words looking upon a Diamond-Ring he had on his Finger and which he remembred Cliodora had had on hers he kiss'd it over and over a thousand times Amorous Extravagance Not to be conceiv'd by any but those who have been so passionately in love as the Duke was The Count of Thoulouse his Brother who came to him in that very Moment could not forbear laughing at his Folly and ask'd what he did kiss with so much
of Maine who had a suspicion that the Marchioness was acquainted with his new Intrigue was at a loss how to manage a Woman so Jealous and so Troublesome At last to rid himself of her in as civil a manner as possible he counterfeited being Sick and acquainted her by a Letter that his Physician had order'd him to forbear conversing with Women upon pain of Death and that to cure his Melancholy he had prescrib'd him the Waters of Bourbon where he would go in few Days The cunning Marchioness smell'd out the Plot presently and perceiving her Reign was at an end she prevail'd so far upon her own Love and Jealousie that she receiv'd the Duke's Letter with great Indifference and made as if she believ'd all he said tho' she was sure of the contrary Here is the Answer she sent him upon his feign'd Illness and his going to the Waters of Bourbon ALas Fair Prince what would I not do to restore your Health A barbarous Feaver is like to blast your Lily Complexion and you are going to the Waters to put out its fire But I think your new Passion that has kindled it might quench it as well without going so far to deprive me of your dear Presence Alas How fortunate were Lovers in the first Ages of the World They were still loving still Constant and Faithful they never parted one from another and Treachery never wrested the Lover from the Mistresses Arms. Oh! Happy Times whether are you fled Why does not Heaven grant us now so great a Blessing I would not feel the cruel smart of your Departure Nor would you be delighted with change but rather place your Happiness in the Sweets of Constant Love Cliodora The Duke of Maine is so penetrating a Wit that he saw presently his Feint was discovered How cunning cry'd he is that Woman she seems contented to lose what she cannot have yet I am mad she shews no more Jealousie Alas She lov'd me not and I was a fond deluded Lover But why do I repine I ought to be glad of the Indifference since a nobler Passion possesses my Heart These Thoughts kept a long while the Duke of Maine seriously employ'd He was in suspence whether he should go to see the Marchioness or no. And one Evening as he was walking irresolute upon that Subject he found himself near that Lady's House who being then at her Window drew in assoon as she saw him The Duke for all her seeming Disdain pull'd a little Bell which was the Signal of their Secret Loves One of the Marchioness's Women led him into a dark Parlour where having perceiv'd under the Table and in a corner some Arms that us'd not to be there and considering besides that his Introducer had lock'd him in he begun to suspect something and leap'd presently out of the Window and made his Escape through the Garden The Marchioness who as I said before was jealous of her Love and Reputation even to Madness had taken the Resolution to murder him privately to revenge his Infidelity for that purpose had sent for some Men who were coming in great haste Mask'd and Disguis'd As soon as she enter'd the Room where she expected to see her false Lover she was so surpriz'd to miss him there that she fell into a Swoon and was Speechless for a while At last having recover'd her self she thank'd those Gentlemen who had taken this opportunity to be reveng'd of an Assront the Duke of Maine had given 'em at Play Cliodora who seem'd to be all Good Nature was indeed a Snake hid under Flowers She was now inraged to see her self disappointed in her Revenge and rushing with fury upon the Woman that had conducted the Duke into the Parlour Traitress cry'd she laying hold of her Neck thou hast betray'd me by causing the most perfidious of Men to escape my just Resentment He will now make me infamous to the World by publishing what wicked Design I had upon his Life but thou shalt be the Victim I 'll offer to my Revenge As she pronounced these Words in the greatest Passion imaginable the Marquiss came in with Sword in his Hand thinking that there were Thieves in his House But how surpriz'd was he to see his Wife with dishevel'd Hair a Dagger in her Hand Curses in her Mouth and wild Despair in her Looks putting a string about her Woman's Neck who I am told had formerly been her Nurse The Marquess prevented this fatal stroke cutting with his Sword the String that was ready to strangle this innocent Creature who as soon as the Tragi-comedy was over both out of Gratitude and Revenge put into his Hands all his Wife's Letters which were the proofs of her Infidelity He being a Man of much Honour and very touchy where his Reputation was concern'd enquir'd so nicely into all his Wife's Intrigues that being fully convinced of her Treachery he caused her to be put into so severe a Nunnery that she had the very Hair of her Eye-brows shav'd off The Duke of Maine who had underhand much contributed to the Marchioness's Confinement during Life was abundantly revenged without noise The Archbishop of Paris who was his Friend as well as of the Abbess of that Convent being acquainted with all the Story gave Orders to have the Marchioness now and then severely Disciplin'd as well for her other Sins as for this last Offence against the Duke which would have cost her her Life had he deliver'd her up into the Hands of Justice What is it that a Jealous Woman is not capable to do said the Duke one Day to his Friends without telling them the cause of this Complaint The Devil himself is nothing to her she is all Dissimulation and stops at nothing that is wicked to be reveng'd The Princess Illida who had these Words reported to her believed they were spoken upon her Account because some Days before she had shewn a little Discontent at a Present which the Duke of Maine made before her to Madamoiselle de Bourbon whom he always look'd upon as his future Spouse All these little Quarrels being over the Duke resolv'd to give a Diversion to a thousand Troubles he felt in his Mind and refresh his Heart which was tired with so many different Passions In order to that he made a Campaign in which he bent all his Thoughts upon Honour and Glory seldom or never remembring his Mistresses Being return'd home he paid his ordinary Visits to the Princess Illida who receiv'd him with Coldness and Indifference This was enough to disingage the Duke of Maine who cannot endure to be slighted and from that very moment he resolv'd to make another Conquest The Person he had a design upon was Madam Olida Wife to a Baron of great Reputation and intimate Friend to the Demoiselles de Tours de Nantes Sisters to the Duke As soon as he had made an Acquaintance with her the King Married the Duke of Anguien otherwise the Duke of Bourbon
employ'd the Baroness till Night when knowing that the Dauphin had prepar'd a magnificent Ball at Court she hasted thither with all imaginable Splendour accompany'd only with an old Aunt who tho' she was above sixty years of Age yet nevertheless appear'd that Night trick'd up like a young Girl This Marchioness de Berge for so was her Name was one of those Women that stretch out their Youth to the greatest extent She was habited on this occasion in Crimson Velvet with an extravagant company of yellow Top-knots flaunting upon her Head Her Nose was exceeding large Eyes little and Mouth wide even to her Ears her Complexion generally sallow tho'in many places blear'd over with a better Colour This surprizing old Coquette who retains still some taste of Gaiety loves to be told that such an accomplish'd Gallant languishes for her Deformity But let us return to the Baroness Olida her Companion who fat next to her to whom the Count de Tolouse made such hot Love that the Duke of Chartres thought himself immediately oblig'd to acquaint the Duke of Maine therewith telling him his Fortress was assaulted whereupon the Duke observing with what inclination she endeavoured to raise his Jealousie Reply'd I 'll leave 'em together let my Brother make his advantage When turning hastily about he instantly went and cast himself at the Feet of Mademoiselle de Bouâ—bon who that day glitter'd more like an Angel than Flesh and Blood and who by her becoming Negligence â—clips'd all the laborious Endeavours of the most exercis'd Ladies What a Torture must it needs be to the Baroness to see her self thus slighted Nevertheless all she cou'd do at present was to go away feigning her self indispos'd But having once reach'd her Apartment she fell into so profound an Agony that it was impossible for her speedily to determine what she intended to do Shall I go to bed says she when my Soul is so fir'd with an Affront from a Prince I have always lov'd so dearly But what do I mean to confide in one whose Passion varies with the first Approaches of another of my Sex and whose Affection is as inconstant as his Indifference is cruel No could never believe a Prince could be guilty oâ— such vulgar Volubility With these sad Reflections the Baroness thought to repose but we may rather imagine she had the most cruel and persecuting Night that ever was undergone either by Despair or Revenge The next Morning she took a firm Resolution never to love for the future but with Indifference Ha! cry'd she raving both in Verse and Prose be still my Sighs you have caus'd me but too much Grief already and my Heart is but too sensible of the Scorn and Contempt of its Conqueror To what end 's this Impertinence Since my Vngrateful serves me thus Be dumb my Sighs no more commence Your Reign both vain and tyrannous I believe Madam observ'd one of her Cousins you frequently exercise your self with the Muses and by the sprightlyness of your Genius often augment the Beauties of Parnassus Apollo that God of Light and Heat must needs now and then have presented you with a draught of his Helicon or you could never have been so harmoniously inspir'd Alas I know not what I do Dear Cousin reply'd the afflicted Baroness Happy must they needs be that are out of this wicked World or who can avoid the Temptations of it Why so cry'd the Young Lady is there any thing more engaging than Human Society You know not what you say Dearest reply'd the Baroness but go fetch me my Head-dress How Charming you are to day Madam added the Young Lady whilst she was dressing her you must needs make innumerable Conquests with such various Artillery Alas cry'd the Baroness thou art deceiv'd my Shafts have no force My Heart is heavy and Mind afflicted and therefore neither like to be Charms in my Eyes nor Darts in my Tongue What pity 't is reply'd the Young Creature sighing that so fair a Mouth shou'd be without Action and so bright Eyes without Fire Mariana cry'd the Baroness I think you will always continue a Buffoon How can I help it Madam reply'd the other when it is wholly the effect of my Nature I observe it Dearest quoth the Baroness having a mind to divert her self But prithee entertain me a little with a description of Love tho' I am no extraordinary Votary to his Divinity Madam reply'd Mariana smiling I believe you are more than you 'll care to confess However my account is this Since Love was first created he has all along made it his chief Business to scatter his Shafts throughout the whole Universe Scepters and Crowns have not been free from his Power nor are there any vital Creatures but what have felt his Force Nay more his Darts are chiefly levell'd at the Innocent Gods were never insensible of his Fury nor Angels of his Force This is the most Noble of all Passions The Painters not being capable to express his Eyes lively enough by Colours have always been accustom'd to paint him blind But how then cou'd he perform such wonderful Conquests without Sight Why that 's easily answer'd For when Love has once a mind to seize upon any Heart he always makes use of some Fair Lady's Eyes to wound it being I suppose perswaded that of all the Senses Seeing is the most charming But to carry our Reasoning farther let us affirm that Blindness can never arrive at any great Knowledge the Eyes being but as Windows that let in the Light of Wisdom and Understanding from thence Moreover 't is commonly said that Love is a Boy yet all nevertheless must allow him the greatest Conqueror and most Learned Philosopher since he not only triumphs over every Man but also conâ—ounds the most solid Reasoning and sublime Discourses Besides all this is there any thing more charming and so conformable to Reason as an innocent Passion And what Happiness could ever any Mortal enjoy if Love were once banish'd from our Globe All other Pleasures are but his Attendants and Life without him would be no better than the extreamest Torment How wonderful are thy Notions Mariana cry'd the Baroness Thou revivest Flames in my Heart that I once Thought extinguish'd You abuse your self Madam reply'd the Young Lady Love whilst you are Young your Charms will never last always Thou say'st right Dearest answered the Baroness but I would nevertheless Love like a Philosopher that is only what is present and that too but with Indifference Ay your Ladyship is a Wag reply'd Mariana I thought before that your Tongue still dissembled the Sentiments of your Heart Away Fool cry'd the Baroness Adieu I must leave you But why in such haste Madam quoth the young Lady stopping her whether are you going What makes you Sigh when you are so lovely sure such an Accomplished Beauty ought never to Languish Yes Dearest reply'd the Baroness looking back upon her Love makes no distinctions 'twixt Fair and Ugly A King
may as well Languish on his Throne as a Shepherd in his Sheep-Cot For Whilst the Baroness was thus going on the Abbot of Joli coeur entered and interupted her to whom turning about she thus Accosted her self You come my Lord Abbot cry'd she in good time Mariana was just entertaining me with Trifles that she says a Woman can never engage in without concern How reply'd the Abbot what says this lovely Charmer Sure then she was entertaining your Ladyship with Love Yes the same quoth the Baroness her Tongue is Eternally running upon that Subject She has Reason reply'd the Abbot For it is the greatest comfort of our Lives Hereupon the Baroness being sensibly affected with the Abbots Address retired immediately into her Closet and threw her self upon an Angel Bed where the Abbot Sighing followed her and Approaching Trembling told her with a Mournful Air That he was but too unhappy in being so Subject to a Woman's Eyes adding withal that his Misery was the greater in that his Function permitted him to go no farther than his Breviary How reply'd the Baroness smiling Your Breviary sure is no Woman That 's certain Madam answered the Abbot yet never theless therein Lent is strictly Commanded But prethee my Lord cry'd the Ladâ— interupting and taking him by the Hand Tell me if your Misfortune should proceeâ— so far as to occasion a Woman of some Quality to Confess she Lov'd you What would you do I pray Would you immediately hang your self in her Garters Is it possiblâ— Madam reply'd Joli-coeur that your Ladyship should be so unacquainted with mâ— sincerity It is most certain I should Loâ—â— her a Thousand times beyond my fell Enough quoth the Baroness you shall be farther considered hereafter Joli coeur by this time being desperately smitten instantly throws himself at the Baronesses Feet and after boldly Advanc'd to her Embraces where what they did I am not able to give any farther Account of Let us now return to the Duke of Maine who troubled his Head but little with any Mistresses except the Fair Camilla then under Tutelage of Madam Maintenon This Prince saw his amiable Object but seldom which was the extreamest occasion of his Grief nevertheless a Marriage being proposed for him with Mademoiselle de Bourbon Daughter to the Prince of Conde the greater part of his amorous Ideas were soon effac'd This Marriage being at length Consummated his Highness for some time was conformable to the Restrictions of Hymen After which the King perceiving that one of his natural Daughters was still unmarryd resolved to bestow her on the Duke of Chartres his Nephew and this by reason of a report made him by a certain Lord that the Duke was desperately in Love with Mademoiselle de Nantes Sister to the Duke of Maine Enough quoth the King I 'll soon turn the Scales whereupon one Day meeting this Prince with his Father the Duke of Orleans in his Closet he talk't to him Roundly about the matter when his Father the Duke briskly opposed his Complying Persisting that for his part he would never consent that his only Son should marry a Bastard To whom then would you marry him replyed the King to some German Princess I care not quoth the Duke providing she be but Legitimate Oh you must pass by these trifling Obstacles quoth the King and remember that she is the most Amiable as well as Beautifull Princess in Europe I do not pretend Sir reply'd the Duke to dispute her Beauty with your Majesty but her Birth only Monsieur continu'd the King with some heat oblige me to and let it Suffice that He has no ordinary kindness for my Daughter The Duke of Orleans being one of the best Natur'd and none of the Wisest Princes in Europe soon suffered himself to be ouer-perswaded by the King insomuch that that very Night the Contract was sign'd between 'em with out the Dutchesse's Privity who afterwards coming to know it raved most Immoderately and express'd her Indignation in these Words What says she have I prevented my Daughter's Marrying the Duke of Maine and must his Sister come in her place These are some of the Kings laudable Actions who never yet had any other consideration then his VVill. Whilst the Dutchess was thus Toâ—menting her self the Marriage of her Son went on apace and being atlength Finish d the Dutchess of Chartres would needs pay her Duty to her Mother-in-law the Dutchess of Orleans Who receiv'd her but coldly and told her moreover with a great deal of Contempt that she could easily have dispenc with such a Visit and that so mean a Person as she must never think hereafter to nitrench upon her Retirement Very well might the Dutchess be concern'd at such a Compliment nevertheless some Days after telling it to her Husband he comforted her extreamly there upon and likewise endeavou'd to extenuate his Mothers Conduct But the Duke of Maine for his part was to grievously affronted at the Duchesse 's Haughty Carriage as well in regard to himself as his Sister that it was a great while after before he would be wrought upon to go to Court Altho' his Highness the Duke of Maine was now Marry'd he could yet never get the Incomparable Camilla out of his Head It was easy for him to have frequent access to her Madam Maintenon her Governess being the principal Confident of his Amours Moreover before the King pich't upon her for his Mistress this Lady was likewise Governess to Mademoiselle de Tours and de Nantes his Highness's Sisters as also to the Count of Tolouse his Brother all which reasons were more then sufficient to engage the Superiour of St. Cir to his side who entertains in her Breast even to this Dâ—y both his Pleasures and Disgusts It was necessary for a Prince so Gallant and Misterious as his most Serene Highness to have a Consident Discreet and Intriguing as the Sage Maintenon This Lady therefore perceiving how tenderly he Lov'd the Young Camilla and that it was impossible for her to disengage him after having endeavour'd by a great many Arguments to convince him of his Conjugal Tie at length resolv'd to afford him secretly the sight of this charming Creature Hereupon St. Cir was destin'd for the Rendevous where he afterwards often Surfeited upon inconceivable Delights One Day as he was at Dinner with his Dutchess the Freak took him all of a sudden to go to St. Cir whereupon this Princess ask'd him seriously what Pleasure he could find in that place Ah! Madam reply'd the Prince the charms I there meet with are a ravishing Innocence and a most intrancing Tranquility insomuch that I cannot forbear approving the Scituation of that House which is much more fine and Singular then those either of the Jnvalides or Academies of Gentlemen over and above which we may there like wise see a great number of fine young Ladies whom the King has plac'd under the conduct of a Person of eminent Virtue so that this noble Retreat may
her the following Words Who er'e can calm his Passion was True An Heart that once could Love will always do This is to treat Love like a Soldier quoth the Dutchess of Maine smiling and to let us know moreover that your Passion never strays out of call of your Reason but yet there is some thing remaining in your Eyes that perswades me you still have more than ordinary kindness for your Mistress And Im ' of opinion those verses the Duke of Chartres sent a Lady who pretended she could Love no longer are very proper to be apply'd to your Case How easie is a Flame renew'd Whose Snuff retains but too much Fire So is a Lovers Heart subdu'd By the least Spark of a Desire I am of the same Opinion Madam reply'd the Count and have some times practis'd accordingly but as to this Lady I have determin'd to persist in my Resolutions because she has often repeated the like Inconstancy Love it must be granted Sir reply'd the Dutchess whether True or False is not very easy to be withstood Madam Interrupted her Friend who had not yet offer'd her Sentiments As I have said before your Highness sees that it were best to turn Philosopher and Dote only upon the Arts and Sciences for all other Love is but a Torment The Conversation run still upon this Subject when the Duke of Maine enter'd the Chamber who after having taking due notice of the Company clap'd himself down upon a Squab Couch and fell to Reading a small Novel call'd The Jealous Wives Certainly quoth the Count of Tolouse looking over his Shoulder this must be a very pretty Book Nothing pleases me so much as to see a Woman play her Part well that way And on the contrary reply'd the Duke bluntly striking his Hand upon the Table nothing to me is so a greater Torment The Dutchess hereupon cast down her Eyes and Answer'd not one Word and soon after entering her Chamber fell to her former Agony and shed abundance of Tears which the Duke yet took no care to wipe off Good God! exclaim'd the unhappy Princess How deaf is this Lord to my Griefs and how regardless of my Sighs The Duke of Maine hearing her Lament could no longer forbear going to ask her with a great deal of Concern what she ail'd Do you then my Lord ask me that Question reply'd the Princess very sorrowfully I have but too too sufficient Reason sure whilst I have learn'd that you Love me no more but have altogether bestow'd your Heart on another What a Fantastical humour quoth the Duke have you Madam got in your head your Sex are ever fond of these sort of Fancies to disturb ye I tell you Madam if you will believe me I am still and will always be yours and tho' I may not continue the same triffling Dalliance that attends Love in its Birth I have nevertheless the same kindness for you Marriage and an entire Possession of what one Loves dispises this Foolish niceness I am satisfy'd my dear Duke cry'd the Dutchess throwing her Arms about his Neck but notwithstanding you must give me leave to fear you do not Love me only 'T is but your groundless Fancy Madam quoth the Duke as I told you before Come rid your self of these unkind Suspicions which are little suiting with your Temper and Quality Alas reply'd the Dutchess sighing then I have been basely misinform'd for I have been told Dearest that you Love Mademoiselle de to Distruction who 't is reported is the greatest Beauty of all Madam Maintenon's Serraglio The World then knows more than I my Dear answer'd the Duke The Lady you speak of is indeed wonderfully Handsom but the Access to her Heart is no less difficult and besides if she were never so easy to Conquer a marry'd Man as I am sure would sigh at her Feet but with a very ill Grace There are some Coquetts in the World reply'd the Dutchess will give themselves the hearing of all a Man can say to 'em for Diversions sake but is it possible for any Woman to resist you who have the greatest Talent imaginable for such Addresses The Duke laught heartily at his Dutchess's Compliment and grasping her close to his Bosom told her she was a little Impertinent Gipsy and took Pleasure in vexing him But continu'd he be assured dearest my Heart shall be altogether thine therefore if you would oblige me let me hear no more of these Distrusts adding moreover Jealousy never becomes a Person of your Birth I know its cause is grounded on Love but having no just Foundation I hope you 'll have regard for the future both to my quiet and your own But will you then swear to be Constant Prince quoth the Dutchess for must Persons only be believ'd on their Oaths in this Case Madam reply'd the Duke I thought you had known me better than to distrust me Ah Sir quoth the Dutchess sighing but that part of a Man is always most Subject to vary therefore whilst the Dutchess was going on with her Reflections a Servant of the Dukes interupted her bringing his Lord a Letter The Dutchess at this being a little surpriz'd hastily caught it out of his Hand but not being able to maintain her Conquest she was soon forc'd to let go her hold and leave the Prince at Liberty who retiring into his Apartment shut to the door and read these following Words from an old Mistress of his the Countess Bridget YOur Silence and Indifference Prince equally injure my Love which is but too much in extream How can you have the Heart to cause her so much Torment whom you have so often Sworn to Love all your Life long The Hostages your Highness sent as a Pledge of your Faith impatiently wait their Return But Alas how long is your Promise in performing which has so often Charm'd me but with its Memory and which at present gives me the greatest Delight Alas VVhy is so small a Favour refus'd me after my frequent Protestations that I Love you more than ever and in spite of your Inconstancy that your Company will be still dear to me But Alas to how little purpose is it to write to you after this manner since you have no more pity left for your poor unfortunate Bridget This is in the Mouth of every Body which occasions me an acknowledging Blush Ah Cruel Remembrance of my Infamous Action to comply with your Request Ages to come will Condemn my Ingratitude and Infidelity to my Husband for your sake whilst I am assur'd of no better recompence than the Cruellest remorse of Conscience that ever was though I must at the same time own is is some times Alleviated by my Love however Ungratefull Prince when I think how you have rejected me as the very worst of Women I cannot but disdaine the unworthy Usage so unbecoming a Person of your Character neverthelesâ— if you should ever think fit to be sorry for your past Omission T is odds but I could
Duke of Maine was going to reply when the King came in which made his Highness soon think of an Escape from his Majestys sight who he knew would presently ask him what he did there and if his Duchess at home was not sufficient company to entertain him Madam Maintenon being always a Friend to the Prince immeditely caus'd Camilla to Vanish likewise and continu'd only with her Monarch herself The Duke returning home was immediately ask'd coldly by his Wise whence he came and where he had been I have been walking Madam reply'd he in Vincennes Grove where I met abundance of Company this fair Day Was your Mistress there too Sir quoth the Dutchess smiling I have been toâ—d you were seen pretty near her not long since My Mistress who is that I pray Madam reply'd the Duke for I find you know more of her than I do Is it possible then you can forget contin'd the Dutchess her whom you are so often with Mademoiselle de of whose Charms you boast so inordinately can she be so indifferent to you as you pretend No matter reply'd the Duke with an angry tone and regardless mein have I not told you I would have you trouble me no more upon that Subject and yet you presume Pray meddle with your own Affairs and leave me to mine I don't pry into your duct Do I He had no sooner said these Words but he immediately flung out of the Room leaving his most unhappy Dutchess in the greatest despair in the World This Princess passed her time you may imagine but very uneasily and when she was alone she did nothing but weep and complain of her wretched Fate Next Day she went to wait on her Father the Prince of Conde to whom she related part of her Misfortune but he advs'd her like a wise Prince to make no great noise about the Matter and perhaps her Lord might be reclaim'd But nevertheless we see he is not like to be so nor perhaps ever will for any continuance At length the Dutchess perceiving she could gain nothing upon her Husband by Reproaching him for his Amours gave him his full swing to do as he pleas'd whereupon his Highness became more and more indifferent for Camilla every Day which this fair Creature perceiving immediately resolv'd to marry the Marquess Verveille My Lord Duke was so far from opposing it that the Marquess being his intimate Friend he thought fit to join their Hands which was the Cause even of Transport to his Dutchess who by these means thought her self deliver'd from all future distrust But alas this Humour of the Dukes lasted but very little for seeing his Quondam Mistress about to be married to another he immediately found in her a Thousand times more Charmes than before insomuch that his Love being but as it were suspended for a while came on with the greater force and would certainly have overset his Brain had not the Marchioness granted what she so vigorously before refus'd All this while his Dutchess was calm nevertheless some few Years after she sufficiently reveng'd her self by engaging in a strict league with the Count of with whom she afterwards spent many agreeable Moments and at last became wholly insensible of her Spouses Cruelty Thus have I reveng'd my wrongs said she one Day to her Consident The Duke of Maine takes but little care of me and at present I have as little regard to him Nevertheless added she moreover he has meerly forc'd me upon what I would otherwise never have attempted Do you Repent then Madam reply'd her Friend No dearest answer'd the Dutchess for the Count is a thousand degrees before him and over and above that he is more constant his Tongue likewise is better hung and consequently more Charms to be found in his Conversation Ay but Madam quoth the Confident it is but a little while since the Count has lov'd you all Persons are agreeable at first and perhaps when he has worn your Chains longer he may be as Rebellious as your Duke Men are disgusted by little and little and we likewise often loose much of the delight that Charm'd us at first Time will shew that reply'd the Dutchess but if ever any such thing should happen again sure I should Mortally hate that Sex for ever after nay I believe should never care to come in their Company again It is the fate of all Women Madam answer'd the Confident that love in a hot Country to You understand me Very well reply'd the Dutchess smiling And what was wanting in me continu'd her Friend to preserve the Heart of that faithless Man your Highness knows of Did not the treacherous Villain soon forsake me after Ay Villain indeed reply'd the Dutchess and it may be my Spark will think to serve me the same trick But if he does I 'll Chain him so fast to the Oar that perchance he may leave a Limb behind him before he gets free Oh Madam quoth the Confident All Men in general are Rebells meer Ramblers and it is most impossible to fix ' em They continually revolt and escape us often insensibly and there 's no way to make 'em constant but by a Power of varying our out-sides continually like a Camoelion for one face seldom long engages the same Heart Well quoth the Dutchess laughing But I have thought of a better way without effecting Impossibilities and that is by letting 'em feast upon our Eyes without having any thing to do with our Bodies Nothing will Plague 'em more then this Abstinence and we may be belov'd and ador'd as long as we please we must allow 'em an easiy Access to our Hearts and that will make 'em go forward with the greater Encouragement and Shame to return without effecting their enterprize will undoubtedly keep 'em from going back These Ladies thus entertain'd each other till a certain Visit interrupted their Conversation But let us return to the Duke of Maine who by this time perceiv'd his Dutchess with Child and which occasion'd him so much Joy that his Highness immediately quitted all his Amours and kept altogether to his own who was overjoy'd to perceive it and with which the King likewise was no less satisfy'd and t is hop'd moreover that the Prince of Dombe now Born may be a means for the future that they may live happily together I could have reckon'd up many more Passages relating to this Princes Life and Conversation but for several Reasons have thought sit to reserve 'em to another Opportunity when I promise to oblige the Publick more at large Till then Adieu FINIS