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
was innocentiy done on my side for I never thought he would have come to me there We always seek the Company of those that love us reply'd Monsieur with a sharp Tone and if the Duke of Maine was not sure of the Conquest of your Heart he would not be so eager to find you out Madamoiselle perceived well enough what her Father meant by that and being endow'd with a strange ready Wit and admirable Address where are those malicious Tongues reply'd she with assurance that have inform'd your Highness that I Lov'd the Duke of Maine so far as to make him run after me My own Eyes have told me so reply'd he going away and I want no other Witnesses Alas cry'd the Princess when she found her self alone I must loose you dear Duke and with you I must loose my Repose for ever Here her Tears and Sighs stopp'd her Voice and Mauritia who by this time was come in soon perceived by her Paleness and down-cast look the trouble and anguish of her mind Alas said she mov'd with pity in what a deplorable condition do I find your Highness You love Madam added she and that 's enough to make you Miserable That 's the cause of my Despair my dear Mauritia answer'd Madamoiselle all the World will talk of my Weaknesses my Heart is grown rebellious and unruly and consults nothing but its Inclinations It never was in my power to do otherwise than I have done therefore my Dearest pity my Misfortunes and consider my cruel Fate which makes me lead a pitying languishing Life and will shortly I fear hurry me to my Grave Mauritia being gone according to her Mistriss's Command Madamoiselle fell into a deep amorous Melancholy and gratify'd all those Griefs and Uneasinesses that can be conceived by none but those that have lost the Persons they loved The Duke of Chartres her Brother did somewhat alleviate her Pain by a thousand little Stories he told her of several Court-Ladies that were very busie and industrious in getting Admirers But said that Prince Smiling it signifies little to Conquer us the difficulty is to keep us when Conquer'd Most Women fancy that because they have Charm'd a Man at first he is presently their Slave for ever but truly they are mistaken we do not sell our Liberty at so cheap a rate No doubt Brother said Madamoiselle disguising her inward Troubles No doubt you are one of those uncertain Conquests I cannot tell dear Sister returned he Smiling The Duke of Maine however is more eagerly assaulted than I Five or six of our First Rate Beauties have this Morning Besieg'd his Heart with a numerous Army of gentle Leers amorous Glances and passionate Ogles which are like to carry it soon upon easie Terms The Duke of Maine's Heart Besieg'd reply'd Madamoiselle with an uneasie Concern and what will this poor Prince do to get out of this Danger He must reply'd the Duke of Chartres send for all the Artillery we have in Flanders to his relief or else he runs great hazard of loosing his Heart That 's an impregnable Fortress Brother said Madamoiselle the Duke of Maine has hitherto bid defiance to all the most conquering and dangerous Ladies and will he now surrender without resistance No I cannot believe it and I know something that perswades me to the contrary 'T is true return'd maliciously the Duke of Chartres that when a Man's Heart is once possess'd by an inclination it is a hard matter to make any sensible Impressions upon it He loves you Sister and how could he then feel the Darts of others The Duke of Maine answer'd Madamoiselle is not so deeply in Love with me as you are with his Sister every Body talks of the Passion you have for her they say you Love nay adore her even to Madness That 's a little too much and I am not so far gone reply'd the Duke of Chartres 't is true Sister added he Madamoiselle de Nantes is a most adorable Creature for besides that she is a perfect Beauty has a thousand agreeable charming and endearing Qualities she is Mistress of a great deal of Wit and good Nature a thing rarely found in your Sex which generally is all made up of Malice These Compliments Brother said Madamoiselle are not very Engaging But however I will acquaint you that you have a Rival no way inferior to you in any thing than can please a handsom Lady And who is this dreadful Rival said the Duke Cannot one be acquainted with his Name 'T is the Prince of Roche sur-yon answer'd Madamoiselle who has a great Passion for her For Madamoiselle of Tours the Eldest Sister you mean reply'd the Duke of Chartres with a disdainful Air for I am sure the Younger will never love him Who can answer for her Heart Brother return'd that Princess smiling A Lady's Faith is a small Assurance when expos'd to a thousand Temptations She may indeed swear an Esteem to her Lover but Oaths that pass between Lovers are easily given and as easily broken And how can any body build upon a Passion which is born one day and dies the next without so much as knowing the Principle of its Rise or the cause of its Fall Aristes and Eugenius two Great Philosophers discoursing one day by the Sea side about the original of that Passion did define it in few words Aristes said to Eugenius That Love is an agreeable Conformity that unites our Hearts and a secret Sympathy from which arises one of those je ne sçâ—y quois not to be express'd by words Certainly Sister reply'd the Duke of Chartres it is a very difficult matter to know the secret Tie that sastens us to the Person belov'd Our Love represents her more Beautiful than the Angels and without any Fault with relation to us who wou'd be sorry she shou'd be otherwise Madamoiselle and the Duke of Chartres were thus pursuing this agreeable Conversation when Madam interrupted them and told Madamoiselle she wanted her Company to visit the Princess of Conti. Madamoâ—selle readily comply'd with her Mother's desire and went where-ever the Dutchess of Orleans was pleas'd to carry her The next day following was spent in Hunting And the Prince acquainted Madam with the Marriage of the Prince of Roche-sur-yon with Madamoiselle de Tours Daughter to Madam Montespan And what 's the meaning of this New Match said Madam to the Prince of Conti The King you see Madam return'd he smiling takes care of his Children It seems he does answer'd Madam but methinks his Majesty might very well spare to Marry Princes of the Blood with such sort of Persons Have not we Marquisses Barons and Gentlemen enough in Francc to bestow them upon without Madam reply'd the Prince your Highness will see more than all this if the King lives He first began with me when he gave me the First Fruits of his Amours Madamoiselle of Vermandois whom I have marry'd tells me that often enough Prince said Madam I make a
Passion My Hand Brother return'd the Duke which has touch'd a most lovely thing Nay then reply'd the Count I have nothing to say to it since you commit an agreeable Folly But pray tell me Brother what part of your Mistresses Person is that you have touch'd Her Mouth reply'd the Duke That 's the nearest place to the Heart said the Count That may be return'd the Duke But alas I find that Heart impenetrable and 't will cost me a great many Sighs before I arrive at the height of Happiness Your Mistress is very cruel I perceive said the Count smiling I thought a Cavalier like you could not languish above a Day you must not stay till she surrenders of her own accord but take her at unawares while she gives you an opportunity For my part added he I never told a Woman twice I lov'd her You are happy reply'd the Duke But how can a Man wrest Favours from a Person who will not grant them and has Reasons not to grant them I never was for using Violence and had rather die for Love than force any thing from a Woman that she will or cannot give All for Love will ever be my Motto A Man ought to get a Woman's Heart and that point once gain'd the rest follows of Course That 's none of my Temper said the Count bluntly if I was Born under the Planet of Venus I would pillage and rob in all the Dominions of Love You have shewed it to Julia answered the Duke of Maine The poor Girl flies you like a Monster and swears she never saw so bold a Man as your self Pshaw Brother said the Count she cries before she 's hurt The Duke of Vendome has done more to her than ever I did but because he went a soft way to Work she has made no noise about it Well that shews however reply'd the Duke smiling that Gentleness and Patience go a great way with the Ladies The Duke of Vendome like a cunning Sportsman catches the Hare without putting her to the Squeak The Duke who came in to them interrupted their Conversation and ask'd them whether they would give him their Company to the Opera I had rather go to a Play said the Count of Thoulouse I hear reply'd the Duke of Bourbon interrupting him you are in Love with Christina she that Acts the most passionate Parts Who I answer'd the Count in a Surprize Faith Love is none of my Business I am too boisterous and inconstant and would soon assault a Woman's Honour or turn Deserter If you be of that Humour reply'd the Duke taking him by the Hand you 'll find but few Women that will have any Kindness for you But I wonder you are not asham'd so to prophane this Noble Passion than which none is more worthy of a great Mind for my part I look upon the Pleasure of Loving as the most refined and sweetest Enjoyment of Life I am of your Opinion said the Duke of Maine and I take a Man without Love to be like a dark dull melancholy Day In short Love makes Life pleasant which otherwise would be tedious and troublesome The Count of Thoulouse perceiving that the Conversation ran still upon Love gave the Duke of Maine a Pat over the Shoulder and told him Faith Brother 't is a little uncivil to take so much Delight in teazing a Man at this rate Come let 's go to the Italian Play-house These three Princes took Coach presently and went first into the Pit and afterwards upon the Stage Arlequin Acted that Day the Emperour of the Moon and the Count of Thoulouse who still had the late Conversation present in his Thoughts ask'd him Whether People made Love in the Moon just as they do here An 't please your Highness reply'd that famous Mimick without any manner of Concern which set the whole Audience a laughing Well said the Count go on with your Business The Play being done these Princes return'd to their respective Apartments and the next Day the Duke of Maine went to Visit the Marchioness who distrusting her own Heart thought it a piece of Prudence to avoid his sight Therefore she stole through a back Gate and went to walk in the Garden not thinking she had been perceiv'd by her Lover Thus being at liberty and alone alas cry'd she how incomparable is my Prince in means to Charm me 'T is in vain I fly him since my inclination to love him surmounts all opposition Troublesome Duty do not tell me I owe my whole Heart to a Husband Love wrests it from me by force and will She was a going to say more when the Duke oâ— Maine who had got into the Garden and hiâ— himself behind a Tree made some noise whicâ— gave her notice he was there Ah! cry'd she â— is it you Prince that thus come to surprizâ— my Freedom and Innocence Alas addeâ— she with an enchanting Air if you knew how weak I am when I see you you woulâ— not thus break in upon my Solitude For to tell you all nothing is so tormenting to me as the Duty incumbent on my Honour neither to see nor love you I dare not follow the tender Inclinations I have for you for fear of splitting on a Rock and breaking the Sacred Ties of Matrimony All this Madam reply'd the Duke is not sufficient to oblige you to fly me for the more you know me the less danger you will find in my Company I know too well answer'd she somewhat uneasie what my Heart thinks of it I do not blush to own that I find infinite Charms in your Person that I am pleas'd with every thing you do and look upon the necessity of your Absence as the greatest torment imaginable But then what secret Reproaches of violated Duty should I be expos'd to if I gave you an opportunity to see me in private No that step is too slippery for a faltering Heart Therefore your Highness must be satisfied with these Reasons and not endeavour to involve me in endless Misfortunes As she made an end of these Words she ran out of the Garden with such swiftness that the Duke of Maine had much ado to follow her And having intrench'd her self in a dark Alley without the Garden the Duke told her smiling Madam I think I had best send for Canon to beat you out of your Retrenchments What do you mean to fly me thus If I had been more bold in discovering to you all the force of my Passion perhaps either out of Kindness or Gratitude you would have done for me what you will undoubtedly do for another who will not deserve it so well because none can ever love you so sincerely as I do This Madam added he is what drives me to Despair The Marchioness having heard him out Prince cry'd she with a most passionate Voice Alas Your Presence does but tear open those Wounds which would heal up of themselves if you were absent I use all that the Art of Love
dictates to avoid that fatal Rock on which I am afraid to split in the very Harbour The Duke perceiving her dying Resolution fell at her Feet and stop'd her against her Will This small but seasonable Violence wrought so much upon the Heart of this Lovely Person that she staid for a considerable while with him and seem'd to give consent to all the moving and tender Expressions of his Passion Oh! sudden and unaccountable Change But alas What 's impossible to Love when he designs to Master a Heart It seems as if all Nature were made for him since nothing can resist his Power The Fair Cliodora experienced it in that occasion having often summon'd in vain to her assistance both Duty Chastity Faith and all the Sacred Obligations of a discreet Wife to her Spouse Now cry'd she am I surpriz'd conquer'd and speechless at once At this she yielded to the fond Caresses of her Lover who embrac'd her most tenderly and look'd passionately upon her to find in her Eyes the Sentence either of his Life or Death The Marchioness casting a languishing Eye upon him said Alas I am ruined All my fears are come upon me and the cruelest Death would now be a Blessing Here she broke off shedding a shower of Tears in the Duke 's Arms. The Shades of Night coming on the Duke both out of Decency Kindness and Love conducted her to her House entertaining her all the way with the most endearing Expressions and having taken his leave left her in the cruelest Agonies imaginable This Night was to the Lovely Cliodora a Night full of Horrour Uneasiness and all that can be most tormenting in this Life And as she was of a Tender and Amorous Temper and had never before felt so violent and engaging a Passion she took an exact Review of all that the Duke had said to her which had made a deep impression in her Heart Atonia one of her intimate Acquaintance who surpriz'd her in Bed the next Morning found her so changed that she ask'd all in a Fright the Reason of that sad Metamorphosis Alas My Dearest said the Marchioness with a doleful Voice if I should tell you the Cause of my Misfortunes you would be so surpriz'd and astonish'd at the condition my Heart is now in that you would certainly pity my Miserable Fate Madam reply'd Atonia I compassionate your Trouble without knowing the particulars of it Can you believe said the Marchioness resuming her Discourse that I Love the most perfect and accomplish'd Man alive Fame indeed has not done him Justice but Heaven has bestow'd on him those Charms that are able to enslave the whole Creation Atonia who ought all this while that the Marchioness spoke of her Husband told her Madam I have long since known the infinite Merit of your Illustrious Husband Here she paus'd a while and the Marchioness resuming the Discourse Alas cry'd she how happy should I be were I only Charm'd by my Husband's Merit But another possesses my Heart and I cannot forbear loving him in spite of Duty Honour Faith and all that opposes the Torrent of my Inclinations How Madam reply'd Atonia in a Surprise you love another besides the Marquiss your Husband I do return'd Cliodora I do dear Atonia love another against my Will and my Heart has yielded to the most perfect of all Mortals But who is that happy Mortal reply'd Atonia with a serious Air who has found the way to captivate your Heart which seem'd to be an impregnable Fortress How often has the Count of made vain attempts upon the Citadel of that Fort which perhaps surrenders now without resistance to a less formidable Conquerour Alas Cruel Atonia answer'd the Marchioness with a dying Look if thou knewest how my Heart my Reason and all the Powers of my Soul have strugled with this Passion thou would'st not speak as thou do'st I have couragiously encountred all that can Charm a Heart and 't is no great wonder to see Victory side with the stronger The Duke of Maine triumphs over my Resolution and 't is that powerful that charming Conquerour that puts me to these Agonies 'T is not to be imagin'd into what astonishment those Words cast Atonia who looking fixedly upon the Marchioness told her Madam what 's now become of that great Vertue and Reserve which made your Ladyship the Admiration of all the World I cannot tell my Dearest cry'd Cliodora falling into a Swoon in which she continu'd for some time without either Speech or Motion but at last recovering her Spirits Faithful Spouse cry'd she I have been treacherous to thee by breaking my Marriage-Vows Then looking upon his Picture that hung by her Bed-side she went on in these Words Oh! why must I break thy Heart by this intolerable Grief Fatal unlawful Love thou art ready to undo me and precipitate my Days into an endless Abyss of Sorrow and Misery Guilt begins to triumph over Vertue and crushes me under the abominable Weight of Vice O Heaven that seest the trouble of my distracted Soul calm this dreadful Storm by some gentle Influence She had scarce done speaking when the Marquiss who for some Days had been a Hunting with his Friends came into the Room and sat down upon the Bed by her He express'd his usual Kindness to her and finding her extreamly chang'd he ask'd her the cause of it with a great deal of Concern Cliodora as you may imagine was not such a Fool as to own her Frailty but on the contrary she conceal'd and dissembl'd it and forc'd a seem'd Satisfaction at the dull Caresses of her Husband Some time after being left alone with her Confident she told her Dear Atonia a Husband is still the same thing and Love is pleas'd with Variety But Madam reply'd Atonia smiling how can you expect always to find that pleasing Variety in a Galant I can't tell reply'd careless the Marchioness however 't is requisite to pass from one amorous Engagement to another were it but to keep our Hearts in ure which otherwise would grow dull and insensible You preach a fine Doctrine said Atonia smiling but I am afraid your Precepts are dangerous and proceed from loose wanton Thoughts which you ought rather to suppress Alas how can I said she rising from her Bed See! here comes the dear Charmer that has raised them whom I cannot shun At these Words the Duke of Maine came in and ask'd her how she had spent the Night Very uneasily dear Prince reply'd she Atonia who perceiv'd that her Company might be troublesom went out of the Room immediately and left 'em to themselves The Duke thus alone with his Mistress entertain'd her with his Passion which said he is arrived at its highest pitch then I fear it will soon decline reply'd Cliodora since Philosophers tell us that things being come to their perfection begin to decrease and return to their centre My dear Angel answer'd the Duke passionately I am above Philosophers and I 'll teach them by the
the Wounds that Murder us proceed from your Eyes and it is impossible but that every Man that sees you should dye at your Feet I never knew a Gentleman yet die with Love answer'd Camilla pleasantly unless it were in Paper where the Passions had been warmly represented by some Agony but for my part I am resolved never to favour any Languishing Flame a little Fire to rellish Pleasure would be much more to my liking That might well be Madam reply'd the Duke if a Man were but Master of himself when a true Lover has no Spirit Resolution nor Gaiety but is always Heavy Timorous and Drowzy like an Owl at Noon day moreover he is both a trouble to himself and Friends and a Plague to every body else minding nothing but Woods and Willows to tell the Story of his Grief to Then I find cry'd Camilla a little coldly Love-Martyrdom now a days is more tolerable than heretofore when Pyramus and Thisbe willingly let out their Souls to enjoy each other in the Shades Thanks be to Heaven the World is mightily come off from those Frensies and we may now despair without danger either of a Dagger or a Halter Times are extremely mended indeed Madam answer'd the Duke the methods of Loving in our Times it must be Confess'd are much more agreeable for now if we cannot soften an Heart by Sighs we endeavour only to do it by Tears and not by violent Remedies Camilla finding her self mov'd by the Dukes Conversation which has frequently approv'd it self dangerous to those he really Lov'd could not refuse him some little Liberties which yet did not arrive at any great Scandal But alas it was now time for Madam Maintenon to return whereupon the young Lady being just ready to Shipwrack her Reputation hearing her Governesses Voice hastily caught up her Fan to refresh her Countenance which you may imagine had been sufficiently heatedin refusing what she most desired Madam Maintenon always being inclin'd to favour the Princes Amours said not one Word to her nor seem'd in the least to take notice of what had passed but as a kind Indulgent she-Friend presently turn'd the Discourse another way A little while after she conducted his Highness to a Pleasant Grotto at the foot of a small Hill covered all over with Green Moss and Planted with an infinite number of sine Orange Trees here she entertain'd him with the sight of a great many pleasant Statutes such as Jupiter and Venus the Muses Apollo Diana in her hunting Habit and Love levelling a Dart at her a little farther she shew'd him several Heroes amongst which was the Grand Louis with Mars supporting his Arm and Victory presenting her Lawrels Here is the Representation of a Man observ'd the Duke whose Memory will be as lasting as his Actions are daring 'T is certain reply'd the Governess that his Noble and Heroick Atchievements shall out live Time and future Ages will be sufficiently employ'd but to do Justice to his Merit His Majesty has so refin'd all the Pleasures of his Court by the Innocency of his own and made himself a most absolute Master of his Passions even at a time when Vice is so very difficult to Conquer What Prince what Hero continu'd she can be equal'd to our mighty Monarch If he makes Laws he Obeys 'em and Reforms Libertines barely by his unblemish'd Piety His Predecessors have busied themselves only in building stately Structures and raising vast Pyramids to Vanity when his chiefest Aim is to Model the World after his sublime example Cirus Alexander Caesar and Augustus have no body I dare promise here on Earth will dispute the Succession to their Virtues with Lewis the Great All the Kings Atchivement Madam reply'd the Duke are equally Illustrious and Admirable and which I do not question will fare better than those of Antiquity which are to be found only in History when times to come shall not only write but talk incessantly of his Glories The Duke of Maine perceiving the Night come on apace immediately took leave of the Superiour of St. Cir and hasted home to his Spouse who all this while attended him with great Impatience and who at his first Entrance asked him Sorrowfully where he had been so long from her With my Mistress Child reply'd the Duke merrily I could not possibly get from her sooner I have known many a true Word spoke in Jest answer'd the Dutchess But pray what is that Beauty which has so great an Influence over you I know none charming enough about Court therefore sure it must needs be one of Madam Maintenon's Serraglio hereupon the Duke blush'd and said nothing which was sufficient reason for the jealous Dutchess to have but an ordinary opinion of his Conduct nevertheless thinking it fruitless she said no more to him at that time but immediately went out At Supper she had another Fling at him but to as little purpose as the former for he had scarce heard three Words before he took a Candle and went up to his Chamber leaving his unhappy Consort to drown her griefs in Tears Next Day his Highness went a Hunting with the Dauphin and after Dinner posted away afresh to his bright Camilla who hearkned to ' him yet more and more favourably For a Week and above the Duke spoke not one Word to his Dutchess his fullenness being upon this occasion without Paralell where upon she thought it but reasonable to complain to her Father the Prince of Conde who promis'd forthwith to acquaint the King but she entreated him by all means to forbear giving him to understand that her Misfortunes then might reach but too far when they should rather bestifled and Suppressed her Husband being but Young and therefore likely to see his Errour in ashort time Madam reply'd the Prince you Reason like A she-Philosopher but I would fain know who is this Lady that presumes to entrench upon your Right That Sir I cannot satisty you in as yet answered the Dutchess but I have reason to suspect Madam Maintenon to be the Cause she never yet wanted Fuell to feed a Volatile Flame She has under her Tuition where withall to occasion Jealousys enough besides I could never fancy that foundation to be so very free from Vice as is commonly imagin'd O Heavens Exclaim'd the Prince you certainly do her a great deal of wrong Can you think she would encourage Vice in a place which is consecrated to Vertue Ah Sir reply'd the Dutchess I am but too well acquainted with her Genius I know her to be a passionate Lover of Intrigues and that that Holy Habit she Wears is but the better to disguise her Hipocrisy I dare assure your Highness he Women are not always busied about the Litany Moreover she is a great Confident of my Lords having as it were brought him up and therefore tho' he was dispos'd to Intrigue elsewhere it might be reasonably Conjectur'd she would not give him leave Madam answer'd the Prince I can believe
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
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
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
duration of my Love that they are but a Company of Fools 'T is true that by an unsearchable Decree of Heaven all things are changeable in this Life but for my part I will always be the same to you These sweet Hopes my dear Life said the Marchioness clasping her Hands about his Neck do ravish my very Soul and shew me the utmost extent of my Felicity Will you then ever love me without alteration I will answer'd the Duke who swore upon the Faith and Honour of a passionate Lover frail Security that future Ages should admire the Constancy of his Love The Marchioness took his Word for it and was pleas'd to believe all he said Some time after the Duke of Maine being at the Princess of Roche-sur-yon's House had a sight of the young Princess Illida and was so taken with her Conversation that he fell passionately in love with her 'T will not be amiss to draw the Picture of so accomplish'd a Person both to entertain the Reader and that he may guess who she is The Princess Illida was a tall proper black Woman her Shape free and easie she had fine large sparkling black Eyes level with the rest of her Face a white and lively Complexion the prettiest little Mouth in the World Ivory Teeth set with regular symmetry a charming Smile a look Noble and Great and yet sweet and engaging with the finest Voice that ever I heard in my Life All this were more than sufficient to raise a great Passion in the Duke of Maine who is naturally very susceptible of Love so that finding himself at liberty he disclos'd to her that very Day all the Sentiments of his Heart and the Princess who was not insensible return'd very obliging Answers to all the fine Speeches he made upon her Beauty The Prince of Conti who died about the time retarded for a while the amorous Affairs of the Duke because the Princess Illida was a Relation of his The Days of Ceremony being over the Duke went to see her at the Princess Dowager of Conti's The Princess having a great Tenderness for her advised her to have a care how far she should embark with the Duke who said she changes his Mistress's oftner than his Clothes Oh Heavens what 's that you say cried the Princess Illida Of all things in the World I abhor Inconstancy most Madam reply'd the Princess of Conti this is a very nice point Fhench-men are of a fickle Temper and generally false to our Sex tho' never so true to their own and I heartily pity all the Women that engage with them in an amorous Commerce which of all others requires Honesty and Sincerity Well Madam said the Princess looking upon her my Engagement is not so far gone but that I may break it Yet I must needs own that if any Person besides your Higghness did tell me this I would look upon it as a piece of malicious Jealousie to undermine the Duke of Maine in my Esteem but because no such thing can ever enter into my Thoughts I shall take my Measures according to your Advice I hope you will reply'd the Princess of Conti and if you don 't you must expect to lose the good Opinion I have of your Discretion This Caution added she is the same I gave lately to a Lady of my Acquaintance who answer'd me briskly Why Madam should we lose precious Time 'T is fit to Love as soon as possible Hearts born for that Passion are spoil'd when they are without it The poor Fool added the Princess has since found by Experience that it is much better to have no Lover at all than to have one Inconstant For my part if I had a mind to have a pleasant and lasting Amour I would pitch upon a Foreigner or some Cavalier older than my self that might take no advantage of his Youth What would your Highness do with a Foreigner said the Princess Illida They are generally but a sort of Clownish Ill-bred Dull Persons unless they travel through France Italy and other Countries and when so they commonly learn the Manners they see abroad and are not a jot the better than the rest No Men can be more tender more amorous more changeable or more jealous than the Italians they Love sometimes even to Madness but their Passion is of no duration The Spaniards are much like the Italians but that they have not so much Spleen and Malice The English have something very insipid they are presently for killing their Rivals or hanging themselves As for the Dutch their Love is so cold and so dull that the hottest Lover of 'em all shall not speak five Words that can please his Mistress in a whole Year Pray of what Country would you then have your Lover said the Princess of Conti breaking out in Laughter I fancy you must get one among the Turks or Moors Fie Madam reply'd the Princess Illida smiling If I would have a Lover to my Fancy I would chuse a German or Switzer A very fine Choice I vow return'd the Princess of Conti why the Germans and Switzers are so heavy so dull so clownish and unpolish'd Madam said the Princess Illida interrupting her they are downright constant honest Men. The Duke of Maine who surpriz'd these two Princesses soon made them change their Conversation Alas said the Princess of Conti perceiving the Duke made his Addresses to the Princess Illida Prince I think you are neither German nor Switzer Why that to me Madam reply'd the Duke Must a Man be German or Switzer to please this incomparable Beauty Yes he must return'd the Princess They are constant downright and honest Faith Madam reply'd the Duke smiling 't is because they have not the Wit to be otherwise But is Constancy such a mighty thing in Love Ah! cry'd the Princess Illida how maliciously Cunning is the Princess of Conti to make People confess their own Faults Nothing in the World is so fine and charming as Constancy and without that solid Quality all Enjoyments would be unpalatable and breed disquieting Thoughts The Duke of Maine perceiv'd presently what malicious Trick the Princess of Conti had put upon him to make her Relation have an ill Opinion of him and without making any reply took his leave and went away The Duke was no sooner come to his Apartment but he bent all his Thoughts to remove the ill Impressions the Princess of Conti had given the Princess Illida which were so deeply rooted that whatever the Duke of Maine could say to her was not able to undeceive her of the Prejudice she had conceiv'd against him The Prince was so desperately mad at it that he expostulated the matter with the Princess of Conti in very big sharp and contemptuous words and ever since that these two Persons have had an irreconcileable Hatred for each other But to return to the Duke of Maine here is a Letter he sent to the Princess his Mistress to endeavour to bring her back from her
Estrangement The Duke of Maine to the Princess Illida MADAM YOur Vnjust Reproaches have hereft me of my Rest and if you continue to have so ill an Opinion of me and banish me from your dear Presence I must fall an infallible Sacrifice to your uncharitable Judgment and Severity You see what Sin you are like to commit and what Remorses of Conscience you must expect if I die I am grown so faint and weak that I have hardly Strength enough to write to you This Weakness most adorable Person ought to give me a Title to your Heart and without the Possession of so inestimable a Treasure I can never hope to love happy You may triumph over my Passion and use at pleasure the Power you have over me since the Condition I am in will not suffer me to do any thing in my own defence save only to assure you that what the Princess of Conti told you of me is nothing but Falshood She is a malicious Woman that cannot endure to see a Man sigh for any other than her self as if she was Mistress of all the Accomplishments in the World And as she comes infinitely short of those shining Qualities and Perfections that Nature has bestow'd upon your self so she cannot but have a mortal Jealousie to you Farewel Illustrious Princess and do not deny the humblest and most passionate of your Adorers the Favour of believing him the most Faithful and sincere of all Mortals Du Maine The Princess Illida received this Letter very kindly and moreover told the Gentleman that brought it that she long'd to see his Master The Duke no sooner receiv'd this News but he immediately flew to his Mistress and casting himself at her Feet begg'd of her to hear him but for a Moment I will hear you as long as you please reply'd the Princess The Prince perceiving an amorous Tenderness in her Looks told her Madam I am overjoy'd to see the end of your Indifference which could have no other cause but the malicious Insinuations of the Princess of Conti whose true Character I have given you already 'T is true I have had several Mistresses which I never lov'd long because they had not the power to keep me Their Charms were too faint to please above a Month a Man of so nice a Palate as my self you alone most charming Creature are capable to fix my Love Prince reply'd the Princess smiling a Month nay a Week is a long time for inconstant Lovers they seldom like a Mistress at the second View If all Ladies were like your self incomparable Princess said the Duke with a passionate Air Men would never change their Mistresses but rather impose upon themselves the agreeable necessity of loving them for ever These are Compliments you make to all our Sex reply'd the Princess and Men of your Temper have always a full Stock of fine Things to say to the Ladies There 's no general Rule without an Exception return'd the Duke there are indeed a sort of Men that cannot live without an Amour and those we call General Lovers Then they love out of Habit and Custom reply'd the Princess and therefore their Passion is nothing but an Amusement Habit and Custom have undoubtedly a great share in it answer'd the Duke and a great many Men don't look upon Love as a serious business The reason they give to colour their Fickleness is that it is impossible for a Heart to be possest by two Passions at once and that the last impressions are generally quicker and stronger than the first And according to this Principle they change their Mistresses as often as their Periwigs being captivated by the Fair and the Black by turns The Princess could not forbear laughing at the pleasant Way the Duke made his Court to her and told him it was a vain attempt to resist his Address and the Charms of his Wit since 't was but losing one's Repose without getting the Victory Would to God Madam cry'd the Duke of Maine grasping her little Lily-white Hand which he kiss'd most amorously I were Master of that Merit you are pleas'd to give me but my small Skill and Genius contradict the good Opinion you have of me Not at all reply'd the Princess and I am sure you deserve the Character I give of you Can I flatter my self that you are perswaded of what you say returned the Duke I really am reply'd she with a Charming Look and for all my Disguises my Heart tells me that you are not indifferent to me These pleasing Words accompanied with the Charms of the Princess so transported the Duke with Joy that had he not been supported by a Table he had fallen like one in a Trance at the Feet of his Dear Charmer At last having recover'd his Amorous Extasie See Madam cry'd he what Raptures and Transports your Divine Perfections cause in me every thing speaks in my favour to persuade you of the strength of my Passion and nothing can alleviate the Torments I endure but the hopes that you do not doubt my Sincerity The Princess whose chief delight was to see her Adorers languish made as if she believ'd by halves the Protestations of his Passion 'T was her Humour to keep several Lovers at a Bay and lead them about into a Fool 's Paradise without caring ever to be at any great Expence for them while the deluded Fools were at a great deal of Pains for Favours in Reversion The Duke of Maine was one of these tho' I cannot tell whether his Address and incomparable Wit have not raised him above the Fortune of his Competitors The amorous Commerce betwixt the Duke of Maine and the Princess Illida could not be so secret but that it came to the knowledge of the Marchioness Cliodora who loved him desperately Love that never sleeps but is continually upon the Watch discover'd it in a very pleasant manner One Day as these two Lovers were together in an Arbour by the Side of a House where the Marchioness happen'd to be she heard through the Wall one that said Madam I shall willingly give you my Picture since you ask it in so engaging a manner But do not you think most adorable Princess that I shall envy its happiness in being near you when I shall sigh after your dear Presence He paus'd here a while and the Marchioness being curious as all the rest of Women are went nearer the Wall and knew the Duke of Maine's Voice but could not justly tell who was the Lady he spoke to Now am I betray'd said she loud enough to be heard that false Man loves another can any Misfortune be so great as mine is The Princess Illida who is very fearful and timerous hearing a strange Voice and doleful Complaints desired her Lover to take Coach again and return Home He presently obey'd and having carried her Home took his leave till the next Day when they appointed to meet near the Forest of Vincennes towards the Close of the Evening The Duke
Person has a powerful Ascendant over my Heart This last Thought as well as the Adventure of the Day before kept her awake all Night Her Women who heard her speak brought her a Light by which she wrote what follows A Letter from the Baroness Olida to the Duke of Maine IT were but Justice Vngrateful Prince if you had as ill a Night as my self after your scornful Indifference Yesterday in the Afternoon Your Highness pretends an Esteem for my Person and yet perhaps you never so much as think of me Alas if you will take the Pains to merit my Heart it will certainly be yours for I see my Capricious Stars will have it so Yet do not mistake me I should be glad to joyn with you in a sound and agreeable Friendship seasoned with a thousand innocent and easie Pleasures but as for Love that 's a troublesome uneasie Passion that I always have avoided and therefore if your Designs are bent that way pray withdraw your Forces and look for a Heart that can suffer more than mine You and I are well at home and so let 's stay where we are It was now pretty late when one of the Baroness's Women came in to tell her that Madam Maintenon ask'd for her Lord said the Baroness rising in haste what Business can that old Bigot have here Her Conversation sure will run upon nothing else but Mortification and Meritorious Works Ah Madam cry'd Madam Maintenon you are very sleepy I must give you some Tea or Coffee to awaken your Spirits which is much better than the Poppies and Opium your Physician prescribes you Madam reply'd the Baroness there 's no occasion for it I only slept to day later than ordinary You look very pensive return'd Madam Maintenon no doubt but somebody has entrusted you with a Business of Consequence that keeps your Thoughts thus employ'd Not at all Madam answer'd the Baroness with a melancholy Air when a body is in your Company one may very well be excus'd from troubling one's head with the State These Fatigues Madam reply'd la Maintenon ought to take up but little of our time whilst the Affairs of one's Heart are much more considerable Yoâ—r Lady ship iâ— very pressing reply'd the Baroness smiling to require a sincere Account of my most hidden Intentions I own iâ— Madam answer'd la Maintenon but withal I know my self discreet and believe I am capable of keeping a Secret Then Madam continu'd the Baroness I have no Secret to disclose and consequently can have no occasion for a Confident Therefore pray Madam continu'd she let us discourse a little of your Affairs and enquire how you do to preserve your fair Camilla whom I hear every body is catching at Certainly that wonderful Beauty must have more than one Admirer at Court. Most certainly reply'd la Maintenon maliciously that young Girl is every where but too much belov'd Nay 't is said moreover his Highness the Duke of Maine is desperately smitten with her At this the Baroness began to blush and spoke not a word after Whereupon Madam Maintenon being curious would needs know the cause of her silence To which the Baroness reply'd in a negligent manner That the matter was very indifferent to her and therefore she should not give her self the trouble to discourse farther about it Madam Maintenon well knowing the utmost secrets of her Heart could not forbear smiling and teazing her farther with her ill Nature thus Truly Madam our famous Camilla makes a wonderous noise at Court. Cannot Mademoiselle de Nantes cry'd the Baroness interrupting her being almost ready to burst with Jealousie oppose this aspiring Beauty I know not that reply'd Madam Maintenon but I believe she has already got the Advantage to be pretty well assur'd of her Loveâ— before-hand For my part quoth the Baroâ—ess in a scornful Tone I should take but little pains to secure to my self such a ramâ—ling Spark as the Duke he has Mistresses iâ— every corner The Brown Black Fair Burâ—â— whatever they be all have Charms enough to engage him for a day or two and longer you know he never cares for loving any body And what would you require more reply'd la Maintenon from a Prince whose only Business is his Diversion I wou'd have him answer'd the Baroness either resolve to be constant or not pretend to love at all Where can you expect to find such Lovers now-a-days answer'd la Maintenon The Age we live in Madam is sickle throughout and would you have its Particulars more constant If matters be as you say Madam reply'd the Baroness for my part I shall wish to die a Maid I am confident that 's the surest way to be easie Very well Madam continu'd la Maintenon but pray of what use is Reason when one's Heart is once wounded We grieve and groan but are never the better for it often happens that whatever is made use of to oppose this Passion does but augment instead of diminishing our Torture Madam reply'd the Baroness ready to laugh when I was a Girl I had an extravagant Passion for a young Cousin of mine who was too near of kin to marry me My Mother observing our Familiaâ—ity forbid me to come near him but which had no better effect than to encrease my Inclination to see or write to him insomuch that the poor Youth would often wish me a sharp Lecture that he forsooth might reap the Benefit of my Disobedience It is a defect of human Nature Madam reply'd la Maintenon to desire that most which we are strictest kept from as likewise to reject and slight what we enjoy and have in our power Whilst the Ladies were thus Moralizing each other one of Madam Maintenon's Pages came to acquaint her his Majesty requir'd her Company immediately which occasion'd her forthwith to withdraw The Baroness thus finding her self alone reflected seriously upon all had been said to her and after having strictly examin'd into the Duke of Maine's Conduct she immediately broke out into immoderate Laughter together with these words Such a Lover as this shall never put me to the expence of a Sigh where a Man can have a Passion in five or six places at once we may well suspect him of a Trick and in whom for the most part a rambling Humour takes place of common Constancy Nevertheless this faithless and unsetled Prince has a thousand times sworn to me that he was born to Love and that where-ever he once six'd his Affection he was but too strictly engag'd ever to enjoy any future Quiet But continu'd she is there any likelyhood of truth in his Words when we may observe him oftner change his Mistresses than his Cloaths Nevertheless if but a little Jealousie could any ways have an Influence over his wandring Temper or awake in him but the least remembrance of my Charms which he formerly profess'd an Esteem for I would then make use of such occasion to obtain what I have always most ardently desir'd These amorous Thoughts
very well be term'd an agreeable Amusement But reply'd the Dutchess having some reason to distrust from his Earnestness Prince will you Swear for I cannot but be a little Jealous to see you go so often to a place where I know you have no business Madam answer'd the Duke can you suspect me of so base an Action Loving you so tenderly as I do reply'd the Dutchess I do not suspect However cannot but Ah! Madam cry'd out the Duke Embracing her can you then believe me capable of salsifying my Faith to you Not altogether reply'd the Dutchess but in part I must distrust you and if you should injure me sure you would but imitate your Father Lewis the Great and Illustrious who never yet made any great Scruple of breaking his Marraige Vows I am not like my Father in that Madam answer'd the Prince coldly No matter cry'd the Dutchess leaving him I must go and entertain a Lady just come to Visit me Prince you are at Liberty you may act your Pleasure The Duke thus seeing his Dutchess gone made use of this Opportunity and immediately Posted away to St. Cir where being arriv'd he presently enquired for the Lady Governess and was soon convey'd to her Apartment and from thence by Madam Maintenon as speedily to Camilla's Chamber who was then busy Embroidering in Gold and Silver He first Addressed himself to Madam Maintenon Observing her Conduct in Domestick Affairs and telling her that if she had lived in the time of the ancient Romans she would certainly have had the Education of all their Senators Daughters and consequently received great Honours and Advantages from that wise Common-Wealth Your Highness reply'd the Governess with a Modest and Pious Air is always pleased to regale me with an account of my Defects Say rather your Virtues Madam answer'd the Duke levelling at the same time a Passionate Ogle at his Mistress who kept on Working without so much as once looking up My noble Prince reply'd the sage Maintenon to prevent ill is as great a Virtue as to Redress it and in that I shall endeavour to exercise my self where I am not capable of greater Archeivments But I must beg you Highnesses Pardon for a Moment the necessary Affairs of the Family requiring my so doing The Duke of Maine finding himself thus alone with hiâ— Lov'd Camilla acosted her after this manner How happy Dearest Creature am I to meet so charming a Person in a place no less a Favourite of Nature Afterwards observing this fair Ladies Cypher on the top of her Cabinet he cry'd out sighing God! Is there any thing more Engaging good and better Fancy'd But continued he would it not be much more agreeable if my Name were added to it Sir reply'd Camilla smiling if your Highness's pleasure had been known before we would have seen what might have been done Oh! Divinest Creature cry'd the Duke throwing himself at her Feet you are but too good Is it possible your Heart should ever correspond with your Words Upon this the faiâ— Nymph blushed and Answered only with a Sigh To what must I attribute this silence Madam continued the Duke Must I explain it in my Favour or receive it for my Doom Do as you please Sir answer'd the bright Creature a little fearfully How reply'd the Duke all on Fire am I then so happy Give me but thy dear Hand and I will confirm my Sincerity with my Lips Then snatching it close to his Mouth for about a quarter of an Hour he afterwards released it with this Asseveration When I neglect any thing to convince thee of my esteem may I never more de serve thy Encouragment and therefore Dearest permit me but to make use of this happy Opportunity to inform thee of the Conquest thou hast gain'd over my Heart and I shall then reach the very utmost heights of all Happiness Camilla being no great Talker was easily silenc'd at this Narration and the Prince at the same time flattered himself with not being altogether Repulsed Do not wonder Dearest of Chaâ—mers continu'd he striving to Kiss her if I ravish a blessing from those lovely Lips for I am all on Fire when I but see thee and when I do not the bare Memory of thee furnishes me with but too severe Proofs of thy Absence My Prince reply'd the Nymph All Men in general have ever made it their business to deceive us poor Women they lead us into Snares and never care for coming near 'em themselves Alas Madam reply'd the Duke sighing In adoring so bright a Creature I would willingly run all hazards 't is what I have already begun and which I will endeavour to finish at the Expence of my Life But Sir insinuated the Bright Camilla all this while your Highness forgets your Marriage Vow I would fain know what Advantage can any Woman expect from Doting on one who must reasonably be supposed to be an others Ah good God! reply'd the Prince If I had had so much Power over my destiny as to be altogether yours I should have been truly happy But Quarrel not with your Lot Prince reply'd Camalla briskly You might not have been so happy as you imagine Why so lovely Charmer cry'd the Duke with a Melancholy Air for pity's sake give me your Reason My Lord reply'd Camilla I am by no means endued with any of those Qualities you expect for I am Indifferent Jealous and often times in a very ill humour No matter Bright Angel answer'd the Duke it may be some kind Planet may move in my Favour and one time or other make you more Reasonable Your Highness is a little too Vain in my Opinion cry'd the fair Camilla smiling But which does not altogether unbecome a Person of your Quality Nevertheless when you shall be no longer lock'd up in Hymen's Fetters continu'd she pleasantly it may be I may be better advis'd from my Heart How endearing are these Expressions Madam reply'd the Duke I can never be enough thankful for ' em But Alas added he with an Amorous Air these Blessings are but imaginary and I would have 'em real Camilla who read the Duke's Passion in his Eyes forbore speaking for some time at last said my Prince I must not wholly abandon you to your tender Reflections I observe you Uneasie Melancholy and as it were buried in excess of Thought What would you have me to say charming Creature reply'd the Duke waking as it were out of a Trance you will not own you Love Who told you so reply'd Camilla ready to Laugh Your self Fair Inhumane answered the Duke looking languishing upon her you take Pleasure in Murdering all that look upon you by which means you will shortly dispeople France and expose us to the insults of our Neighbours This is to carry the Hyperbole too far my Lord cry'd Camilla Are Men ever kill'd without Arms or Blows Sure then they must be like â—â—ies that are caught Flying and Stifled with a squeeze No lovely Fair one reply'd the Duke
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
be so weak as to pardon you and this to make good that Maxim which says That whoever but once Lov'd well can never by any means be brought to Hate The Countess Bridget The conclusion of this Letter pleas'd the Duke infinitely insomuch that he read it over several times before he could put it up She 's in the right quoth he they that have once bestow'd their Hearts can scarce ever afterwards be made to call 'em back But your Misfortune rejected Countess continu'd he was not to have charm'd me to that Degree Your Chains were easily broken being not over strong and according to all Appearance you have abundantly more Love for me than ever it was possible for me to have for you Thus his Highness entertain'd himself some part of the Night but assoon as Day peep'd he was engag'd to mount on Horse-back to go a Hunting with some Lords to all whom he shew'd the Countesse 's Letter after having torn off her Name Are Ladies then us'd to bestow their Favours so Prodigally quoth the Duke of Bourbon laughing I know not who your Correspondent is but nevertheless am sure her Stile is none of the least Passionate Oh! T is a Lovely Creature reply'd the Duke of Maine smiâ—ing and any body else perhaps would be glad of what I refuse Would she think you my Lord quoth the Duke of Bourbon I have a Friend has occasion for such a Female There 's not a fitter for his purpose reply'd the Duke of Main providing her Husband don't come to know it Oh! quoth the Duke of Bourbon I thought she had been some Virgin who had had a mind to Communicate her Maidenhead â—oh my Fâ—iend will never care to have to do with a Woman that has a Husband I believe you may keep her to your self my Lord continu'd he t is plain she knows you or she would never have writ so kindly Yes answer'd the Duke I have some small knowledge of her her Name as I remember is Madam Freelove I 'll assure you she was no ordinary Charmer in her first Husbands Days It may be quoth the Count of Tolouse she is now some worn out Peice who is weary with Traversing the Streets and therefore would get yoâ— to put her off to my Brother for conveniency No by my Faith reply'd thâ— Duke of Maine she is a very lovelâ— Creature Young Blith Bonny and one you would be glad of with all you Heart Having spoke these Words he immediately set Spurs to his Horse and galop'd towards asolitary Wood where entering he instantly leap'd off his Saddlâ— upon a green Bank and sung these Worâ— Whilst I am cutting and Slashing Abroad And courting deep Wounds from the fiery God You cry your concern'd for the Hazards I ruâ— Yet when I return Oh Oh how how little you Burn My Wounds you neglect and my Love you do shuâ— The rest of his companions did tâ— like every one complaining of the Cruelâ— of his Mistress except the Duke of Chotres only who affirm'd that he never yâ— found any Woman false nor ever wâ— in Love above sour and twenty Hours â— all his Life How vain is this Spark râ—ply'd the Duke of Maine about to ralâ— him This does not at all my Lord quoâ— he suit with your Character you shouâ— ever find fault with Women nay tho' thâ— were never so kind It is Loves Poliâ— â—nd who ever does not follow it will never â—ucced well in his Amours Women Love Men that are discreet and to whom they â—an the safer confide their Favours also â—overs should not only be discreet but likeâ—ise Secret otherwise they might quickly Dethrone their little Emperour O the â—rand Love-Politician cry'd the Duke of â—hartres He is a Prodigious Proficient in â—ese matters and no doubt was never deâ—eiv'd but in Madam who could not â—ove him because Why these Aenigma's â—y Lord reply'd the Duke of Maine you are very wanton methinks and perhaps fancy you have some very easy body to â—ally with But have a care Prince you â—ay otherwise raise a sury that wont so easily be laid I care not a Fig quoth the Duke of Chartres provided it be from â—n Enemy and particularly him I mean Whilst these two Young Princes were â—us Jarring the rest of the Company preâ—ail'd with them to return to Paris where â—e Duke of Maine was no sooner arriv'd but â—e imediately posted away to St. Cir and â—aving found out his Charmer Camilla in â—e of the Grotts reading a Romance he â—ccosted her after this manner What dost â—on do here my Heavenly Hermite quoth â—e can solitude so well suit with thy â—vely Temper I was reading Sir reply'd â—amilla rising from her Place of two of â—aesar's Wives one whereof was Cornelia whom he valu'd so as to make her funeral Oration himâ—elf and the other one whom he fancy'd a Coquette and whom therefore he thought fit to banish giving for reason that were she so or not when the rumour was once spread aspot would sooner appear upon his Cloath than anâ— others as also that a wife of Caesars must never be suspected tho' guiltless What quoth the Duke could Caesar partâ— with his Wife without being well assur'd of her Crime It may be she was Inocent It may be so too reply'd Camilla but I find continu'd she with a very engaging Air that great Men of former Ages have always had their blindsides as well as ours oâ— these Do you doubt that Madam reply'd the Duke Men have ever been Meâ— since their first Creation would you havâ— 'em exceed their Model Adam was noâ— perfect you know after his Lapse But stiâ— added he these Illustrious Heroes of paâ— times never lov'd so truely as I do theâ— Passion was limited when mine has nâ— Bounds Then yours in time will be Giant Passion quoth the Lady smiling you suffer it to proceed farther but havâ— a care my Lord it may else come to Scalâ— the Skies and receive the like Fate witâ— it s once Metamorphos'd Brethren or elâ— run wandring all over the World and waâ— it self to a Pigmy with its Fatigue Yoâ— Love after this rate will be a Vagabonâ— and Fugitive Fie my Lord you must by â—ll means call it Home and confine it to a decent Standard What do you rally after â—his rate Adorable Beauty quoth the Duke the Person whose Torments you occasion fie this is not Generous continâ—'d he with one Knee upon the Ground you may well think one Day to answer for all these Homicides Who I reply'd Camilla briskly I never yet was the occasion of any Man's Death Ah! too Cruel added the Duke you will infallibly soon be of mine I feel your Eyes already sunk â—eep into my Heart You abuse your self Prince reply'd Camilla merrily I have â—othing wherewithal to Wound you Ah good God! continu'd he growing Pale â—o not force me to explain my self farther â—hich Word he had scaâ—fe utter'd before â—e fell flat in a Swoon at her Feet who â—evertheless
was the Wittiest and most Accomplish'd her utmost Wishes could expect as likewise of Noble Birth soon yielded to his engaging Address The Duke of Maine therefore having some Reason to be Jealous one day meeting him coming from St. Cir Accosted him with a heavy Countenance after this manner Marquess you that so often have approv'd your self my Friend are now no more so but a dangerous Rival as likewise the most Cruel of all my Enemies Ah my Lord reply'd he catching him by the Hand so far am I from being your Highnesses Enemy that I am unavoidably become my own in not being able to resist the Charms of that Beautiful Creature you Love I have us'd all endeavours to overcome my Weakness but notwithstanding find 'em all fruitless and of none effect Then you Love Camilla quoth the Duke angrily and with Contempt But have a Care Marquess otherwise you may be but too sensible of your Treachery For what will you then pretend to do Prince reply'd the Marquess boldly will you offer to oppose me I Love this Beautiful Charmer beyond any possibility of resistance The same do I added the Duke with the like furious Air I Love her in spite of my Will to disingage my self as likewise without Hopes as I wish you do and this give me leave to tell you Sir coming up to him Ah Cruel Friend continu'd he putting his Hand to his Sword I fear this Casuist must at last be the Decider of our difference When you please my Lord reply'd the Marquess I do not wear a Sword to any better purpose than to Defend my self Then I find continu'd the Duke from the very best of Friends we must become the greatest of Enemies being Rivals But with all my Heart since it is so determind Here Marquess quoth he give me your Sword and take you mine let us see in whose Favour Fortune will declare herself Which done they began to fall to it Pell-mell when having exchang'd several passes by chance two Fathers la Chaise and Bourdalou happen'd to come by who seeing two young Lords Attack each other so vigorously immediately interpos'd with their utmost diligence to prevent any farther mischief and after Preach'd Peace to 'em without knowing the least occasion of their Quarrel My Lord Duke of Maine soon Condescended to their Mediation being unwilling to make any farther Noise for fear it might come to his Dutchesses Ear therefore suffer'd his Hand to be given to the Marquess by Father la Chaise who all this while knew nothing of the true Cause of their Dispute Thus being made seemingly Friends the Reverend Fathers conducted 'em to their Cloysters with so much secrecy that there was not the least Rumour of it got Abroad Notwithstanding this Accommodation the Duke could not but treasure up a great deal of Malice for the Marquess who likewise bore him no less Ill-will insomuch that when ever they were like to meet in the Streets the one endeavour'd to avoid the other with a great deal of earnestness Camilla you may imagine was very much puzzled to manage these two Lovers equally especially since she had so great a kindness for the Marquess One Day as the Marquess was pressing her to declare in his Favour he said Ah! fairest Camilla I can but too well perceive how much you prefer the Duke of Maine to me But He could not go on farther because she suddainly interupted him asking seriously why he thought so Why I think so Madam answer'd he why I am convinc'd by the kind reception I observe you always give him even in my Presence No doubt you think him more deserving for Reasons best known to your self It is my desire to make your Fortune when I am confident the Duke intends nothing but to ruin it I understand you Sir reply'd Camilla blushing but however what would you have me to do you see Madam Maintenon forces me as it were to be Civil to him he being her Favourite and besides he is assuredly a Person of that Merit that must needs Command every Bodies esteem Ah! t is this your esteem Madam cry'd out the Marquess that will certainly be the cause of my Death And moreover how do I know but that you go something farther but however it is certain my Love will endure no Competitor Then you must needs have me to your self I find Sir reply'd Camilla laughing but nevertheless this is a piece of Vanity does not at all displease in a true Lover to suffer no Partner Then I find Dearest Camilla reply'd the Marquess in a Love-Fit you are pleas'd to agree with me in my Assertion But however prethee tell me thou Loveliest of thy Sex canst thou but have the least kindness for me Your Questions a little too rash in my Opinion Sir quoth Camilla merrily It is but a little while since I have first known you and would you have me Love already No my Heart is not so easily wrought upon continu'd she and perhaps may never Whilst they were thus debating the Duke of Maine enter'd bluntly the Room where upon the Marquess immediately decamp'd leaving the Field of Battle to his Highness who like an experienc'd General in Loves Wars began instantly to Muster all his Troops of Sighs Complaints and Languishings which he had always about him and which he immediately drew up at the Incomparable Camillas Feet where he began his Harangue thus Will you never cruellest of your Sex put and end to my Grief I suffer more on your Account then the very damn'd in Hell pardon the Simile for where a Person is Skrew'd up to my Pitch of Jealousy the very worst of terms suit his Condition best and yet you will have no Compassion Yes quoth Camilla when my Heart can assure me you have gaind any considerable conquest for these terms of Damn'd Miserable Wretched and a Slave savour more of a Romance than Reality But Madam reply'd the Duke for the most part your Sex are not to be wrought upon unless a Man give himself to the Devill for security Good you are pleas'd to rally I find My Lord quoth Camilla But does your Highness seriouly believe that we Woman dont know when we are truly belov'd when nothing is so easy to discover by a Mans Actions I cant tell that Incomparable Charmer reply'd the Duke darting her a favourable Look But I know you have not yet been pleas'd to discover mine I am sure continu'd he sighing t is no small time since my Honour Liberty and Heart have been in your Fetters and yet you would never think fit to take any notice of ' em Have I had the possession of 'em so long then answer'd Camilla Merrily I thought they had a great while since been Banish'â— Paris for Fugitives and Vagabonds Pariâ— has never had greater Possession of mâ— reply'd the Duke than now and particularly St. Cir were you now are and where you may likewise find my Grief engraven in lasting Characters Where abouts pray my Lord quoth