THE HISTORY OF OLIVAIRES of Castile AND ARTHUR of Dalgarve Translated out of the Spanish into the Italian Tongue by Francesco Portonari And from the Italian made English LICENS'D Feb. 1 1694 5. LONDON Printed for Fra. Hildyard Bookseller in York MDCXCV A LETTER OF Francesco Portonari Relating to the Ensuing BOOK To the most Noble Lord S. Odoardo Gomez my ever Honoured Lord. MANY years ago two Writers searching into Ancient Histories made choice of two Noble Cavaliers and their Deeds on that Subject to compose a small Manual Some time after which a Chronicler of France for the satisfaction of a Friend who begged of him that he would give him to read some Warlike Exploits and Amorous Intrigues and Adventures translated this Story of Olivaires of Castile and Arthur of Dalgarve from the Original Latine into his own Native Language the French And as all better Writ Books are wont it generally took Wherefore dispersing all over it got also into Spain and was received as a Choice and Delicate Novel So from the French Tongue it was taught to speak the Castilian and that most elegantly and there obtain'd withal additional Bulk by many new fine and curious things inserted And for as much as we who breathe Italian Air have therewith suck'd in from our Infancy a natural inclination to such sort of smooth and shining Composures of whatever Climate I did for the pleasure of those who are most delighted with them undertake the Task to turn this into the Stile of Tuscany And with the light of such kind Stars I writ that by reason of an Ancient Original of a Third Edition which came though with difficulty to my hands I had opportunity of a thorow view whence such Adventures and Exploits and Amours were extracted and well enough discern'd how those Excellent Writers had separated the best and fairest of the History From that Old Story then from the Latine the French and the Spanish I also have deduced and compiled and so methodiz'd this Work that it appears to me without flattering my self or it to equal if not excel all the other Wherefore knowing Your Lordship has oft read over the Spanish Original of Mine I the willinger present this to Your view which has more of the Truth according to the Relation of the History and less of the Additional Lyes and Fictions that Transcribers have mix'd therewith I shall be highly proud if Your Lordship's Incomparable Judgment can give Approbation to what I have done and my Self and Service do I intirely dedicate to Your Lordship's Acceptance and Favour From Venice March 3. 1552. My LORD Your Lordship 's most humbly devoted Servant Francesco Portonari Sonetto di Boscan In Lingua Spagnola PAssando el mar Leandro è l'animoso An amoroso fuego todo ardiendo Esforço el viento y fuesse embraveciendo El aqua con un impetu furioso Vencido del trabaio presuroso Contrastar à las ondas no pudiendo Y mas del bieu que alli perdia muriendo Che de la propria vida pauroso Como pudo Esforço su boz cousada Valas oudas ablo desta manera Mas nunca fue su boz dellas oyda Ondas pues no se escusa que yo muera Dexadme allallegar y alla fornada Vuestro furor executa eu mi vida SONETTO DI BOSCAN Tradotto in Lingua Toscana PAssando il mar Leandro corraggioso In amoroso fuoco tutto ardendo Fe forza al vento se n'ando rompendo Quell'onde con uno impetu orgoglioso Ma vinto dal travaglio penglioso A l'acqua contrastar piu non potendo Et piu del ben ch'iui perdea morendo Che de la propria vita panroso Come potesforzo sua voce irata Et con l'acque parlò di tal maniera Ne mai da lor fu sua favella udita Acque poi non si puo farch'io non pera Lasciatemi arrivar è à la tornata Vostro furor s'appaghe di mia vita WHen the Gallant Leander Swam the Main Whose Waters cou'd not cool his ardent Love He made the Winds to spend their spight in vain And curling Waves did bravely from him shove But when at length it him had conquer'd now Who cou'd not with its fury further strife Maintain for that he must his bliss forgo He much more grieved than for loss of Life Then the despairing Lover silence brake And to the Billows thus did parly make Nor was e're after by them heard to speak You Waters since I see I perish must Only give leave t' Embrace my Mistress First And at return against me do your worst THE HISTORY OF THE Noble CAVALIERS c. CHAP. I. The Birth of Olivaires and of the Death of his Mother ACcording as my Abilities will permit and as an Inclination natural unto me for high and noble Deeds of Great and Valorous Knights whom Fame deservedly transmits to far Posterity shall give us Assistance my purpose is to make a Relation of uncommon and marvellous Exploits to the end that by hearing such honourable Feats done of others brave Souls may the eagerlier be incited to an impetuous thirst after the acquist of Glory and still the more so when particularly they take for their Mirrour and Pattern the Two Valiant Brothers for Arms so famous from whom our present Story has its origin and by the favour of him upon whom all Conduct depends shall have its successful period I am informed by History That after the Valiant Emperour Charlemain King of France returned from Spain into his own Kingdom within a short while Heaven put an end to his days at which time a Prince rul'd in Castile who for his excellent Virtues and winning Behaviour both of his Nobles and Commonalty was much Beloved and Rever'd He Married the King of Galitia's Daughter a Virtuous and Beautiful Lady But having no Issue by her this made her very Melancholy and the whole Kingdom was much Discontented seeing one Realm remain destitute of an Heir and other deprived of their Lawful Sovereign which must needs in time produce many Troubles Disorders and Wars The Queen therefore hearing oft of these things and by some words which fell from the King perceiving that he was much dissatisfi'd made her Application by Prayer unto God who never fails those who rightly put confidence in him And beginning with Alms Endowing of Orphan Maids Redemption of Slaves and other good Christian offices she implor'd Mercy and Favour of our Lord and his Virgin Mother intreating them to grant her a Son for the preservation of the Kingdom And for that her request was equitable and her Prayers issued from a sincere heart it pleased God in pity to hear their Cry and she conceived and brought forth a most beautiful Boy which caused great Exultation Triumph and Festivity throughout the whole Kingdom But she had not lived four days when 't was the Will of the Almighty that she should render up her devout Soul unto
troubled his Parents for that would oblige them to sell their Goo◠and Estate neither could the price 〈◊〉 them reach it therefore they resolve rather to let him remain excommunicate than satisfy the Debt but the generous Prince Olivaires would no less be his Friend in death than Brother in life as you shall hear CHAP. XVIII Olivaires causes the Cavalier to be buried and discharges the Debt and of some Justings proclaimed in the Court of the King of England OLivaires seeing the great Covetousness of the Knight's Parents was much offended at it and used all the endeavour he could to accord the matter betwixt the Parties At length being neither able to persuade the one nor bring the other to a composition-agreement he demanded of the Creditor how much the total Sum came to and when he was answer'd 2000 Nobles he like a Prince and Mirror of Princes paid with Gold and Jewels the Debt for his deceased Friend retaining their late friendship fresh in his memory and so procured for him Christian Burial After few days he heard a Report that the King of England had given command for proclaiming a Turnament to continue three days and that he who should get the victory should have for reward his Daughter to Wife and the Kingdom for her Dowry and this Royal Maid was the most beautiful and admirable young Creature that ever was born or ever appear'd on the Earth Nor would her Father bestow her in marriage on any King or any other unless he was the most valiant and bravest of the Age to the end that by Arms he might maintain her in her Dominions and the State in peace There were 400 Knights appointed to maintain the Justing and Combat against whatever Cavalier had a mind to present himself on the Field for Encounter and now Nine Months had passed since the Feast and Turnament were published and the allotted term was to expire within 15 days The Valiant Olivaires made it his business to understand well the Fashion and Customs there and by a very Experienc'd Cavalier got Instructions as to every thing and that which delighted him most he was credibly informed that the King's Daughter did much exceed the high Character and Fame that went abroad of her therefore Olivaires fell in love with the very Idea he had conceived from report thinking with himself that if he should come off Victor at such a Turnament the Prize would be an abundant reward of all his Fatigues and Affliction And now he is on his way for going to the Justing and London for the Court resided at that City and there was the place appointed for this famous Turnament CHAP. XIX What Fortune Olivaires has by the way leaving Canterbury to go for the Tilting THE time being now but short before the Feast was to begin the Valiant Knight is on his Journey ever having in his mind the delightful thoughts of Victory and of seeing so many Kings Dukes and great Lords make proof of their Valour thus thinking he went on till he came to a Wood not far from the City of London when lo from one corner of it sallied out 15 High-way men Assassinates of Travellers one whereof with Lance in hand advanced up putting himself in the front of the rest and with villanous words said Lay down your Arms Knight Errant if you desire to live Olivaires before he made answer put up a secret Prayer unto God and his Answer to the Assassinate was immediately to draw his Sword and fencing off the thrusts of his Spear and making his Horse give back he brings him down and kills him and taking his Lance he turns himself against the other Robbers who made very gallant defence but in little time the Valorous Olivaires slew the greater part of them whereupon the rest fled away wounded and as fast as they could recover'd the Wood amazed at the mighty valour they beheld in him and if they had been double or treble the number I truly believe he would have conquer'd and kill'd them all Olivaires having free'd himself of them paid his gratitude to God and riding forward he spies a Spring as clear as Chrystal to which he makes and alights from his Horse to refresh himself with its water being extream thirsty and hot and also to wash some Ripples he had got in the Assassinates Assault wherefore being intent upon these his Horse had step by step wandered a good way off and being now at liberty began to run and caper about before Olivaires was aware and with great haste he goes with design to catch him when out of the thick Wood came one of those villanous Highway-men and prevents him seizes on the Bridle mounts him and flies away with the Mail was fastned to the Saddle-bow What Mortal can imagine Olivaires's grief at this Accident finding himself deprived of his Horse and Jewels which were of great value but his chief trouble of all was that he could not go to the Tilting being void of all hope and means both for the Combat and Attire Whereupon he begins a Complaint able to rend the Rocks and soften them into tenderness and compassion O! was not my Mother's Death enough to satiate the spight of Fortune was not enough my Father's Grief was not enough the Affliction of my Kingdom Not content to have hurried me into infinite perils of life when in the height of my desire to recover my Losses she brings a Cloud over my little glimsing Joy and dawning Happiness But thou Lord whose Essence is goodness it self reach forth unto me thy Right hand in this Wood Let thy Sun dispel my new darkness that surrounds me and laying his Face on the ground in a posture for dying after sobs and tears he was silent CHAP. XX. Of a Cavalier that appears to Olivaires and puts him into hope and of some Covenants betwixt them OLivaires being in so melancholly a Mood a Cavalier came unto him certainly a Messenger from God for his comfort and with a loud voice call'd to him O Olivaires of Castile rouse up and hate me not for terminating thy Doubts rouse up and sleep not whereupon he quickly raised his head being surpriz'd to be called on by name yet not resolved whether to sleep or awake thinking it might be some Phantasy which his Melancholy had presented to his Imagination but looking earnestly he was assured by his Aspect that it was some very honourable Knight and observing the black Vesture on his back he was the more astonished then signing himself with the Cross after the manner of the Christians he said I adjure thee by the Maker of the Heaven and the Earth and the Merits of his Son Jesus to tell me how thou camest by the knowledge of my Name and whether thou art a Man or a good Genius Be not afraid of me said the Black Knight for that I am a Christian and believe in God as thy self enquire not now why I have called on thee it is
his Daughter Helena spoke plainly enough to her Who dear Child appeared to you the most Valorous in this Combat Helena reply'd I minded them Sir all alike and every one seemed to perform well Understand Governess of my Soul said the King that the Present will quickly be brought and given to him whom the Judges shall sentence the most deserving and that he is also to be your Husband and the Heir of the Kingdom Wherefore I desire to know how your Inclications are Him whom your Majesty shall think of and whom your Royal Judgment shall most approve and him in short whom you shall name and recommend to me I shall willing accept of for my Spouse Lord and Guardian of my Life If the Black Red and White Cavalier subjoin'd the King we should make choice of for his Merits would you be so satisfy'd although we yet be ignorant who he is If my Sovereign and Father the Judges shall think him worthy of the Prize to defraud him of it would be high injustice however your Majesty's Will and Pleasure shall intirely be mine CHAP. XXXIII Of the words the King spoke and the Reward that was given to Olivaires THE King of Ireland of Scotland and of other Dominions with the Dukes Princes and Barons of their Realms were set down when the King order'd silence and then thus said Signories High Empires States and Kingdoms presently will the Judges and Lords be here with the Reward of the Turnament and to whom my small Present shall be given the same also shall espouse my Daughter and only Child and have all England for her Dowry but I will that that Prince Lord or King remain some time in my Court that I may have experience of his Valour in all Exploits and after understand his Lineage and Descent and then may he enjoy the Crown Let now then the Prize be brought and adjudged to him who got the greatest Honour and was Victor of the Turnament First came 30 Pages with lighted Torches in their hands and after 30 most noble Cavaliers then followed 10 Pages in gold Embroidery with Torches also in midst of which were 6 Knights clad in Cloth of Gold and in the midst of them a Duke all in Armour who carried a golden Bason and in it a Neck-chain of Gold interwoven with Jewels and so wonderfully wrought that the very sight of it alone was a transport for all Humane kind and it might be said to have been one of the Wonders of the World nor could the value of those Jewels be estimated and after followed the Judges with an infinite number of Knights and Gentlemen and being so placed that every one might conveniently be a Spectator they came before the King speaking to this effect CHAP. XXXIV The rich Neck-chain is given to the Valiant Olivaires at which many of the Kings are filled with disdain it appearing to them that an unknown Knight was not worthy of such a Present MAY it please your Majesty Dread Sovereign we were appointed by your Majesty to be Judges for the Victor at Tilting and at the Combats on Horseback and on foot which Province we willingly accepted of and have diligently observed according to our skill the Blows the Hardiness the Valour and Force of every King Duke Prince and Lord and we freely give witness that every one of them has made honourable proof of right Chivalry but to our thinking the Flower of all and he who has merited your Majesty's peculiar Favour and Present is that Cavalier who was clad the first day in Black the second in Red and the third in White which valorous Knight is the same that sits by your Majesty the deservedly designed Heir of your Kingdom and although we be ignorant of his Country and Name yet we are ascertain'd he is come of a Royal Race and has Illustrious Blood in his Veins because such kind of Valour does not lodge in any other Personages save those who by such Extraction can appear thus worthy of a Crown wherefore with your Majesty's leave and good liking we will present the Gift to him The King being well contented made sign to them to do so the Duke then turning to Olivaires took the Chain and put it about his Neck saying unto him Your Valour which has conquered so many Couragious Knights adorns you with this Gift a Testimony of the King of England's Kindness and when his Majesty shall think convenient time you are to espouse Helena his only Daughter and be crown'd King of the Realm Believe me reply'd Olivaires I do not seem to my self to have done any thing to merit this but since it is the King's Bounty I am very well pleased So he accepted of the Present and Promise and bowing low to the King and Helena in a most eloquent Speech he returned them large thanks for their Liberality And to the Judges and to the whole Hall he also gave infinite Thanks and 't was judged by all that heard him that he was the finest Courtier of the World and every one considering his comely Regal Aspect his Martial Valour Boon Grace Deportment Mein and Eloquence even wept for very joy the King taking him by the Hand and kissing his Forehead set him in his place again then a thousand Instruments began again to play making infinite delight and festivity CHAP. XXXV The Cavalier who was Olivaires so great Friend and furnished him with Arms at the Justing appears in a Dream to Helena and of a Vision the King had THE morning after about break of day the King had this Vision He dream'd he saw Olivaires crown'd King of his Realm and that he had given him his Daughter then he beheld another Crown come over his Head and settle upon that much greater than the former he had given him and it doubled his Court Retinue and Riches and it appeared to him so August that he himself bow'd to it Therefore seeing Fortune had been so extraordinary kind unto him to send him such a Cavalier for his Son he was mightily overjoy'd and the transport awak'd him and revolving this Vision in his mind he was imagining with himself what it might signify And musing earnestly he fell asleep again and other Kings appeared to come upon him with design to take that Crown from off his head saying It was not fit he should wear two Crowns but he being moved at their Presumption seemed by force to bind their Hands behind them and to take the Crown off the Head of every one of them to whom after they had humbled themselves unto him Olivaires gave every one their own again and at this he awaken'd The King did admire at the Vision and assur'd himself'twas a Divine one and no natural play of Fancy and happy Mystery in it so he treasur'd it up in his memory and was fill'd with great joy When the Morning was further advanc'd he went to visit his Daughter Helena whom he found more than ordinary pleasant and delighted
City being spoiled and every poor Soldier enriched with the Prey they rested and refresh'd themselves until Olivaires bid Edward his Captain resit the Fleet and repair the Ships whereever there was need After when they were well Victualled he caused him to dispose the Army into good order for transport to their own Kingdom So in a short time all things being in a readiness he is now for departing with his Captive Kings to the great Gladness and Rejoycing of all his Noble and Valiant Crew that had attended and gone along with him CHAP. XLV Olivaires parts from Ireland for England and of the honour was shown him THE English loaden with rich Spoils with many Carriages â—nd Horses burthened with things of great value now marched with their Sovereign Olivaires on their way and â—he Kings rode on most beautiful Mules without Spurs and so travailâ—d before the Valiant Olivaires and â—rrived at the Port they found the Ships prepared for them and all â—hings necessary provided in abundance for them by the prudent care of Captain Edward Having enter'd â—he Ships with all their Trophies in â—â—w days with a fair wind they touch'd 〈◊〉 the Port whence they parted when â—â—ey came from England And Oliâ—â—ires having come a-land and taken 〈…〉 gings dispatch'd Edward away to the King and order'd him to inform him of the whole Success of the War Edward being gone Post with some other Knights came to Court and having kissed the King's hand and paid low respects unto Helena for it happened that they were at Table together begun after the Ceremonies of Salutation to relate the Success of the War and to give account in order of the Valour Strength Activity Wit and great Vertues that so eminently appear'd in Olivaires whereat the King dropt tears for joy and Helena kept a Jubilee in her Breast and her heart melted with pleasure The Valiant Captain assur'd the King that Olivaires was the finest Knight that ever bore Lance and he told him with what courage he had taken the King 's of Ireland Prisoners and how with a handful in comparison he had foil'd and conquer'd them and that he had brought them Captives with him to his Majesty Then the King caused to be given to Edward a Present of Gold and Helena another of Jewels for the good News he had brought Mean time Olivaires made great days Journies and being arrived near the Royal City the King with three hundred Knights with golden Spurs Dukes Counts and Marquesses and the whole City with all sorts of Musick and Feastings made the Heavens to re-eccho again the Applauses of the Victory The King rid a white Nag habited in rich Tissue and had the Royal Crown on his head and when he came near Olivaires Olivaires hastily alighted from his Horse and so likewise the King and embracing him with Paternal kindness he kissed him many times The Kings of Ireland stood aside for they were not worthy to look on the sacred Crown of England and every one paid their reverence to Olivaires the Archbishops the Bishops and Prelates and they followed them on their way toward the City The King gave thanks unto and praised God and thanked Olivaires and expressed how much he was obliged to him both for the defence of his Kingdom and for having acquired a-new so great a State And Olivaires attributing the honour to God and to his Knights desired the King that he would be grateful to them for their Valour and also to the other Soldiers forasmuch as they all had behaved themselves galâ—â—ntly When they were arrived at the City all with loud Voices Bonefires and Instruments of all sorts expressed their Joys and when they were come into the Palace Helena like a descended Sun came toward Olivaires who bowing himself low was supported by the King and Helena gave him a Kiss which struck an ineffable sweetness and delight on Olivaires's Heart-strings and all the Evening till time for rest was spent in extraordinary demonstrations of Mirth and Joyfulness CHAP. XLVI The Captive Kings and other Princes are presented to the King IN the morning the Kings and Prisoners were conducted to the Palace Olivaires gladly beheld them and a while after when he thought it convenient he brought them before the King and Helena who was well enough pleased to see their condition for the love she bore her Olivaires Then all the Prisoners bended the knee to the King and Olivaires made a Present of them to his Majesty but he delivered them over into Olivaires's power to dispose of them as he thought good Olivaires then generously gave them their Lives and ordering a Table to be placed over-against that of the King Helena and Olivaires he caused them to be as honourably attended and waited on as his own Person the Kings were transported with this Courtesy and it well pleased the Court also After Dinner great Merriment began and the Kings had fair liberty given them under Guards and other things that were convenient These afterward accompanying them to their Apartments they left the King of England and Olivaires together to treat of the Marriage and what related to it CHAP. XLVII The King's Discourse and what he bestow'd on Olivaires BEing left then to discourse by themselves alone the King asked Olivaires if he might be worthy of and so happy to have his constant presence and stay in England Or if he designed to return to his Kingdom of Spain to whom he made answer he would never leave England without a King and this he promised him oâ— his Royal Word The same night after Supper they had Musick and a great Ball. After a little Dancing the King said to his Nobles who were present My Son Olivaires intends to morrow to take my Daughter to wife and she him for her Husband and the Kingdom for her Dowry which I desire Olivaires to accept of as part of the reward of his Valour and I think my self and us all happy in bestowing my Realm upon him who is the bravest Cavalier of the World and the chief King that sways a Scepter Olivaires making humble reverence to so honourable Age with great expressions of gratitude said that he did not deserve such a Reward and that he should ever have reason to thank Heaven and his Majesty for promoting him to and thinking him worthy of so great honour and begged of God to prosper him and prolong his days and fill him with all content and satisâ—action On account of this Munifiâ—â—nce and the Espousals Olivaires gave all the Prisoners and the Kings their Liberty who receiving such a favour made their Acknowledgment after this manner CHAP. XLVIII The Kings are made Tributaries of the Crown of England and promise Fealty THE next day the Irish Kings came to the Palace and delivered their mind to an Ancient Nobleman who was a famous Cavalier and he engaged and gave his faith for them and they confirmed it with their own Promises that their Crowns should for
for it None but Olivaires had courage to look on him and he continually attended him And when Arthur wish'd and begg'd for death a thousand times in an hour he comforted him and pray'd him to bear his condition patiently telling him He did not think it the least trouble to wait on him but did it freely and with great satisfaction One night Arthur dream'd he saw Olivairer's Daughter breathe a Vein and that she sprinkling some of the Blood isused from it on his Visage and giving him more to drink he was cured by the virtue of it Whereupon he waken'd for joy but then finding it only a Dream he said nothing of it to Olivaires The Virgin was of competent stature and she also dream'd the same night she saw Arthur drinking of Blood out of a Bowl and to be cur'd thereby and she told it to her Mother Olivaires one morning 'bout break of day see in a Dream a Lady drawing blood out of her Vein and with it bathing Arthur and also giving him of it to drink and that he was cur'd thereby The sight whereof wonderfully rejoyc'd him and the same morning told the Vision to Arthur Helena from her Soul loving Arthur as if he had been her own Brother declareed also her Daughters Dream Arthur though secretly had made his Vision known to the Doctor who did assure him that Blood was his only remedy CHAP. LXVI The Consult of the King Olivaires Helena and the Physicians upon Arthur Infirmity WHen the King heard of every one's Dream he knew for certain that Clarisa's Blood was to be the Medicine whereby Arthur must have relief On the one hand he was dubious on the other he was resolv'd and having called Olivaires Helena and the Physicians desirous he should recover he enquired of them which was the most facil way to perform the Operation On the one part Olivaires consented to the doing of it for that he was his Brother but was afflicted on the other fearing it might endanger his Daughter's Life Helena lamented the Mishap Arthur would rather have dy'd than any hand should spill the least drop of his Neece's Blood the Physicians knew not any way to take Blood from her without great hazard and fear of harm to the Damsel The King was sorry he could not shed his own to serve him Olivaires likewise would freely have bled and Helena was troubled extreamly Under these Difficulties his Royal Friends labour'd a whole day and earnestly recommended with Prayers themselves and their Case unto God At night when Helenâ— was about going to bed she with all humility kneel'd down on the Floor and with a most sincere heart made her application unto God begging of him to instruct them how without danger or pain to extract Blood from her yoing Daughter inasmuch as they were resolved to free him of his Disease by that Remedy Lo in the night a Lady arrayed all in pure white Silk with a Crown of Gold upon her head appear'd to the Royal Damsel and with saying things that delighted her and with winning Smiles and sweetness made gentle application and lanced a vein of her right arm and having saved the blood in a bason of Alabaster and healed the little orisice said to her you shall give this to Arthur to drink and bathe also his Face with it In the morning the thing being understood the King and they all render'd thanks unto God and published the Miracle and Solemn Sacrifice was appointed The Damsel in the morning accompanied of her Mother and also her Father with all the Ladies went unto Arthur and bathed him with that same blood and gave him thereof to drink whereby in a moment he was seen to admiration to recover and in a short time was perfectly cured CHAP. LXVII After the restoring of Arthur to his health Cavaliers came out of Spain to compliment Olivaires as their Sovereign WHen Arthur was well again the rejoicing was no less than if he had strictly risen from the dead and the world kept a Jubilee his Subjects of Ireland came to compliment him upon and with great joy congratulate his recovery The same time also many Embassadors arrived from the Kingdom of Spain to make demonstration of their mighty gladness for having found again their King but withal expressing sorrow for the Queen's death so that there was a necessity of declarations of sadness for Arthur's sake but when the Court was out of mourning there came many Dukes Lords and Knights and begged of their Sovereign King Olivaires that he would be pleased to make happy with his presence his own Dominions wherefore they all supplicated the King of England to give consent that Olivaires Helena and Arthur might go for some days to their Realm The King was pleased and proffer'd to accompany them also himself and having order'd the Carriages Attendance Treasure and all other things to be in readiness they took their progress for Spain He who could relate the number of the Guards those three Kings had the Pages Knights and infinite Train that attended them and also the Ladies would be able to make the most stupendious Narrative that was ever heard Only the Queen and her Daughter had two Courts of Knights and Ladies that equall'd the Stars of Heaven both for their number and their brightness Castile having notice of the coming of so belov'd a Sovereign and of his People so much desired made great Jubilee and Exultation and the more for that they understood they had for their Queen the Daughter of England and that she had also a Son and Daughter The Feasts the Pomps the Rejoicings the Triumphs the Justings and Turnaments were infinite every where as they passed were such great Feasts and Entertainments made for them as was possible to be prepared among such hurry of joy and rapture CHAP. LXVIII Olivaires and Helena having enter'd Castile are crowned THese potent Princes were receiv'd in Castile with Pomp and Expences inestimable and the third day according as was before ordered Olivaires and Helena were crowned King and Queen of that Kingdom Olivaires was obliged to stay for some time in his Dominion and Arthur also to go to his of Dalgarve so the King of England was to return alone which was something melancholy to him especially he leaving also behind his Daughter He returned then for England however accompanied a good part of his way by many Dukes Counts Lords and Knights and some went thorow with him into England After that Arthur being gone to his Kingdom to redress and put in order what ever he found amiss Olivaires likewise gave great diligence to reâ—orm his State to reward his Subjects â—nd caress all and for the establishâ—ent of his Kingdom and to demonâ—â—rate his great affection to King Dalâ—â—rve he determin'd to make Alliance â—ith him and that so strict as the knot â—ight be Gordian and indissolvable â—o he and the Queen resolved to give â—im their Daughter Clarissia to Wife â—he only seeming Obstacle was
they gave him the name of the late King of England Now the fame of this Foreign Heir of the Kingdom beginning to spread wide certain Princes were moved with envy at his great Felicity and inviting the Irish Kings to their assistance they caused a part of the State to rise in rebellion Wherefore Arthur was forced upon a new Adventure who thought he enjoy'd the Kingdom in perfect peace Fitting then as many Forces as he judged sufficient to repress the insolence of his Subjects he went on the Design The Duke of Glocester headed the Rebels for being Cousin to the old King he imagin'd he had so some Title to the Crown Arthur engaging Battel with him in few days space destroyed the whole Army and taking the Duke Prisoner he would have slain him but he begging of him for the Lineage sake of which he was descended he gave him his Life and set him at liberty and he renounced all his Pretences to the Realm of England but within a few days died of grief Arthur returning after lived in peace and quietness and was blessed with a Daughter who prov'd an occasion of an Illustrious Alliance for maintaining the Tranquillity of the State CHAP. LXXV The Alliance Arthur made with his Daughter by the Counsel of Olivaires and of his Son Henry OLivaires having understood of Arthur's Journey proffered him supply of Men and Horses but Arthur had no need of any Hearing afterward of his Victory he made great Rejoicing And having knowledge of the Nativity of his Daughter he writ to him to seek to contract Alliance with some potent Prince that his State might not be in fear of War or Rebellion any more Wherefore calling together his Council he read to them Olivaires's Letter who all approved of his Advice and so designed to make trial on the King of Portugal And when some Months had passed Ambassadors were sent to treat of the Match and it was concluded that Arthur's Daughter should be given to the King of Portugal's Eldest Son who was a few Years elder than her and the Dowry was referred to Olivaires's Determining Now Arthur's Son being dead who governed for him the State of Dalgarve Olivaires Arbitrated that the Kingdom of Dalgarve should be given in Dowry to the King of Portugal Wherefore that State hath ever since continued under the Jurisdiction of the Portuguese Crown Arthur was much troubled for the loss of his Son but bore it the better for that his Legitimate Daughter succeeded him So in fit time according as Histories write she went to her Husband Arthur's Son growing up imitated his Father's Valour and all his Vertues which gave mighty Content and Satisfaction to Olivaires also who was continually inquiring after him Henry Olivaires's Son gave also consent to this Alliance to whom Messengers were ordered who found him in his Camp before a strongly fortified City and he had already conquered and taken many and he kindly received them and they returned satisfied Arthur understanding the great Soul and Prowess of Henry was infinitely delighted and did by Letters much Congratulate on his account his Brother Olivaires who lived in great Pleasure by continual hearing of his Son 's brave and honourable Exploits CHAP. LXXVI Of an infirmity happening to Olivaires and of Henry who was assaulted and almost slain whom Arthur goes to recover OLivaires by reason of uninterrupted Harrassings and Fatigues in his Youth and also his so many Months Imprisonment in Ireland in Age became more sensible of his before better supported Mishaps and Afflictions and their sculking Effects and waiting an Advantage proved over-match for his infirm Years and so he must truckle under their severe Pressure His Stomach then is become so infeebled that nothing that he eats will Digest with him and he is tormented with continual and intolerable pain in his Head and unto his Malady and to increase his Grief an unlucky Accident was added which was That his Son Henry pushing forward with some Cavaliers more couragiously than their Strength and Ability to come off well could second was thrust into the throng and main of his Enemies from whence it was impossible without great difficulty and hazard to save himself and get back to his Army again so that as was thought he was mortally Wounded When Olivaires heard this ill News he writ to Arthur to desire him to go and relieve his Nephew who did not stand to make much Preparation but with a Choice and Valiant Detachment march'd away This gave some satisfaction to Olivaires reckoning himself was there in Person if Arthur were When Arthur arrived he found Henry very bad however he gave notice to Olivaires that it was much better with him and taking extraordinary care of him he in a few days see him well again In the mean time the Enemy-Army felt the Forces of Arthur who oft vigorously assaulted them and with a vast Destruction made Mountains of the slain When Henry was recovered Arthur returned and went speedily to give his Olivaires a Visit who was much afflicted with his infirmity Helena was mightily overjoy'd at his coming and she perceived that Arthur's presence did some what recruit Olivaires Arthur discoursed to him the whole Matter concerning Henry spoke of the Beauty of his Daughter and by degrees gave him an account of his Son how as he grew up he imitated Olivaires in all Noble and Virtuous Indowments of Mind And having rested for some Days with his honourable Cavaliers he return'd into England to enjoy his Rich and Beautiful State and Nation CHAP. LXXVII What is Recorded by English Historians Spanish and others concerning these Kings HEnry conquered many and many Countries and at last died Fighting for Holy Mother Church a true doubly Militant Son and Member thereof The same foresaid infirmity after a long Life brought Olivaires to his Grave When he died Helena took on so sadly that she also Expired on Olivaires's Face and they were both Buried together Arthur was Crowned King of Castile and his Son Married and had Children and so likewise had his Daughter So for many Years flourished the Fame of all these mighty Kings But the Heavens which give an end to every thing not to the Grandees only but to us who have writ this present History and also shall to all the Readers thereof bring our destined Periods about that after the Fatigue of a miserable Pilgrimage we may find some Quietude and that leaving behind them for a time but not long the yet mortal Garments Nature accommodated them with our Spirits may return into the Hands of the Lord who gave them of him to receive Good or Evil Rewards or Punishments according as we have deserved and behaved our selves Let us therefore make humble request unto the Almighty with sincere and cordial Affections that he would please to look on his Mercy not our Merit his Grace not our Works and that for those he would bring us unto and make us Partakers of his Kingdom that which is not Transitory that which no Tyrant how potent soever can usurp or molest that wherein no Vice dwells which none can enter or approach wherein no wicked Persons have share place or residence which they may not unless to increase their Torment behold but where have their Source and Origin where for ever are Nourished where for evermore Inhabit are Secure and Established Goodness Vertue Wisdom Peace and Felicity through him who is all these Supreamly and Essentially And that he would bestow these also upon us whilst in this World to the end that washed and purified from the pollution of Sin we may joyfully go hence to enjoy revere and adore Him and Face to Face eternally gaze on the Beatisick Vision Amen FINIS
him that gave it which caused a Lamentation as general as had been the Joy But the King was the principal Mourner who bore an extream affection to her knowing so well her Beauty Prudence Chastity Compassionateness unto men Piety towards God and how in all things to his will and pleasure she was conform and agreeable CHAP. II. Of the Baptism of Olivaires and the Obsequies of the Queen his Mother and some procedures toward the King 's Marrying again for the Kingdoms Welfare AFter all things were prepared for the Funeral they carried the deceased Queen to her Burial and it was ordered that her Child should at the same time be brought to his Baptism so both were in the Church together The Queen was lamented with floods of Tears and the young Infant was Baptized with fitting Solemnities and to him they gave the Name of Olivaires As soon as the Funeral and Baptism were over the King returned to his Palace and every one to their own homes This so sudden Death caused the King extremely to lament and so infinite was his sorrow that his Life begun to be much despaired of Wherefore his Nobles used all endeavours to divert his Melancholy by whatever they conceived might be most likely to give him any pleasing Entertainment And for this end among others they brought unto him his little Son Olivaires whom taking and Embracing in his Arms with heavy Sighs he mixed these Words bearing a kind of delight even in their dolorousness O my little Son all my remaining Comfort and the Crown of my Kingdom thy Birth hath raised me to Heaven and sunk me to Hell for by giving me an Heir it has lifted me up on high but by robbing me of my Queen it has cast me down as low again And addressing himself unto God he begged of him that he would assume into Heaven the Mother's happy Soul And on the little Babe looking in his Face said he may it please him to bestow such Grace that thou mayest live in constant Obedience to all his Holy Commandments After this manner the Afflicted King spent his time day by day and would receive no Consolation Therefore the chief Lords of his Court seeing his Griefs rather increase than abate met together in private to consult which might be the best means to bring their Sovereign out of his heavy Melancholy for that if he persisted in this condition he must of necessity very shortly put an end to his days which would prove a grand publick detriment and therefore they concluded on what would be every way better than that he should do so viz. the Matching him with Queen Dalgarve Dowager agreeable enough for years Fair and of good and gentle Disposition wherefore if he were so inclin'd it might turn to good effect So they were determined to make the Proposal to him Coming then into his presence and having first paid those respects due to Sovereignty they communicated unto him the issue of their Consultation shewing him what good would follow and how much to their own and the general satisfaction and advantage his Marrying would be and particularly displayed before him the excellent Qualities and rare Virtues of Queen Dalgarve so that this Match as was said before would be fortunate and happy for himself content to them and cause the publick rejoycing of the whole Kingdom The King giving ear to them and remaining a little in suspence and considering withal the reasonableness of the thing and that it was his Subjects Affection to him that urged them so to speak returns them answer after this manner My own Temper and Inclination for certain is not to marry any more nor ever to know Woman again Notwithstanding I shall declare unto you that since in what you move you seek the publick welfare and yours and mine and do so tenderly and affectionately request this of me I am willing to forsake the Path I had with resolution made choice of and follow the duct of your Desires and Counsels and yield unto you to pitch upon what will be for the best and may tend to your happiness the Kingdom 's and my own When the Lords saw such generosity in their Prince and had received so gracious an Answer from him they were much pleased and gave him infinite Thanks for such Goodness And now Honourable Ambassadors were quickly dispatch'd away to make their Complements to Queen Dalgarve who upon their Arrival were entertain'd with great kindness and respect although the Occasion of their Embassy was not at all known The next day they made their Ascent into her Palace where they delivered unto her the Mind and Inclinations of their King And their Discourse did not offend her Majesty's Ear and so by her Courtiers were honourably accompanied to their Apartments CHAP. III. The Treaty about the Marriage of Queen Dalgarve to the King of Castile THE Day following about Three the Queen sent to convene all the Grandees Sages and most Noble Barons of her Kingdom with whom she discoursed and declar'd the King of Castile's mind And as for her Answer and the whole Affair she referr'd it to them yielding up her self intirely to what they should advise and to their disposal That whether they thought it fit she should marry or no she would wholly be at their devoire and most willingly comply with their Resolutions The matter being discuss'd they determin'd to speak in short that she should not reject the motion telling her That she could not match into a nobler or better State and that her Son Arthur was too young for Government Thus they counsell'd her to accept of the King of Castile for her Husband To which she repli'd I told you before and now repeat it That your pleasure shall be mine And therefore to you I leave it to form an Answer to the Ambassadors in what manner you shall best approve of After then they had returned the Queen thanks Six Barons were appointed to go and inform the King's Ambassadors their Pleasure and that it was also their Queen's who had Authoriz'd them so to say and these also told them That they questioned not but from such an Auspicious Conjunction happy Effects and universal good Influences and Advantages would proceed So the Affinity was left to the Liberty of the King of Castile for his Proposal she was not altogether averse from Go then and tell your Master to order the Marriage as shall please him and in this Point we only request one Favour of him That he would please to come himself for her since all the Coasts are clear and safe for this will look more decent and come also with as little Retinue and Pomp as an Affair of that kind and quality may possibly allow CHAP. IV. The Espousals of the King of Castile and Queen Dalgarve and how he conducted her into his Kingdom with her little Son Arthur THE Ambassadors having dispatch'd their Business and received noble Presents from the Queen and Court returned back to
places of the Countrey the Enemy might fly to and save themselves Wherefore having accommodated and provided every thing and given all his Soldiers Arms and ranked 'em in fit posture for Combat he made unto them this short Oration Valorous Lords worthy Knights my Brethren and Companions I believe you are well satisfi'd of the good Nature of our Sovereign the King of England my Father and of the great Liberality he hath expressed toward you in Gifts Presents and fair Promises And I believe that you have a Courage lodged in your Breasts ready to requite as much as you are capable what he has deserved of you But this I am most sure of as a shining Truth that the Glory of an honourable Death is far rather to be elected than the living with more ease and perhaps not so even to the most faint-hearted under the brand of Cowardise and consequently the disgrace of Scorn and Affronts This Day therefore offers a fair Opportunity to make honourable Proof of our Valours and to dilate the Soul of our King to harbour still greater Kindness and Affection if it be possible for us all And I can plainly behold in all your looks Hardiness and a rising Courage and a longing after Battel and Fame and for the rendering more honourable and noble your Blood Summon up then all your Strength and Vigour and contract them into a stout Heart to expel out of your Dominions such arrogant haughty and proud Invaders and spread abroad their Infamy and Disgrace whilst you procure to your selves a happy Memory and leave the inheritance of a valorous Name upon your Families and whosoever is of another temper is a reproach and shame to his native Countrey Here they all with one consent cry'd aloud We are ready to undergo a thousand Deaths for our King for your Highness and for our own Honour and we will follow you wheresoever you shall lead and we will give such demonstrations both of our Fidelity and Courage as to make you plainly understand how much we think our selves engaged to our Sovereign and how mindful we are of our Allegiance Olivaires having drawn out his Men divided them into three Parts on the right Wing he set 3000 Horse and 4000 Foot under the Command of Edward the noble English Cavalier on the left he gave to Robert his Lieutenant the Command of 6000 Horse and 2000 Foot ordering him not to assault the Enemy's Army before Edward had joyn'd his Battalions In the Night with all the silence possible he approach'd the Camp and in the Morning he bid the Drums beat and the Trumpets sound and heading the main Body himself he gave the Adversary Battel The first that advanced to encounter Olivaires was a fierce Irish Captain Stout and Gallant and engaging with him two such grand Blows were given that the very Earth shook both their Horses fell and their thick Launces â—ere broken into a thousand splinters Olivaires quickly without any harm â—eceived rose up on his Feet But â—he dismay'd Captain with a piece â—f Launce sticking in his Breast reâ—ain'd on the ground half dead And â—â—ddenly did begin a sharp and terriâ—le Fight every one valiantly labourâ—ng his Sword and slashing round â—bout him mean time Edward on the â—ight Wing made but a bad Encounâ—er of it Whereupon he begun to â—quare his Ranks And they of the City beholding an Army favourable â—o 'em did great damage to their Reer â—utting them in mighty Confusion This Assault being made in little â—ime Robert during it was in the Flank and so violent was the Onset and so briskly did they bear up to them that the Enemy constrained by Olivaires's Valour who having remounted like a Lion made a vast Shammels and fresh Assistances coming in from all Parts being able to make small Opposition to their Fury fled Whereupon the Kings ran to catch their Bridles and having obtained a Port enter'd a Ship for sail Great was the Mortality of that day's Action about Four thousand English having been slain and we may venture to affirm it near Twenty thousand of the Irish King's Forces So Olivaires after Victory dispos'd himself to resettle the Army to take care of the Wounded to bury the Dead and to celebrate with Encomiums and Triumphs the valorous Deceased acknowledging himself eternally obliged to the Living for their admirable Fortitude and Courage and in a word for the Victory CHAP. XLII Of the News which the King receiv'd of the Victory and of Olivaires who resolves to pursue the Enemy COuriers were quickly dispatch'd away to Court with Olivaires's Letters signifying the Victory unto the King and having in a short time arrived at the Palace and the News presented the City and Kingdom were fill'd with great rejoycing and with Bonefires Feasts and Triumphs they gave mighty demonstrations of their gladness Helena was much comforted and a thousand times read over her dear Olivaires's Letter whom she lodged in her heart day and night And another thousand by day discours'd with her Father of him in that respectful and decent manner as was agreeable repeating to one another their Dreams and had great satisfaction betwixt themselves On the other part Olivaires seemed not to himself to have performed any thing in putting the Enemy to flight and was resolved to make a total destruction of and perfect conquest over them Wherefore considering the slaughter he had made among them he perceived they could not readily recruit their Army fortify their Cities act defensively and offensively and so he resolved to follow them His Soldiers therefore being refreshed he caus'd them with quick dispatch to make a great many Ships and having set his Army all in Order in a large Campaign he went on Horseback into the midst of 'em and thus spake Most Noble Cavaliers Valiant Combatants my Brethren and Friends I think my self very happy for having been Spectator of your Valours and that the Enemy has felt your hands how rough they are and for this acknowledge kind Stars have shed their benign influence on me But ah what have we done in banishing them out of our Territories We must expel them their own if it be a right Victory there will be seen our Puissance in such an enterprize there will your Hardiness Valour and Vertue appear Are you pleased Brethren and dear Friends that we pursue them and banish them out of their own Dominions Are you pleased that we should revenge our selves on so great an Affront their presumption to have driven us from our State will it not be a just recompence to expel them theirs to take from them their Kingdoms their Cities and Life Whom would you have to take vengeance for this Insolence offer'd if we our selves have not resentment enough to do it how can you imagine our Posterity should have a warmth for it Our Sovereign the King seeing our brave and victorious Courage will know how much we are the loving Children of the Father of our Country and will
ever pay homage to his Majesty's Royal State So in the King's presence they made themselves Tributary and gave vow once a year to present themselves before him and in Peace and War to be always ready to serve and obey the King and his Son Olivaires then they kissed the King's Hand After that they were presented with Horses of all sorts Pages Vestments and all things they had occasion for and liberty to go or stay as they had a mind the Kings with low reverence thanked his Majesty and desired of Olivaires they might tarry to see the Solemnity and reiterated that their Crowns should be ever subservient to so illustrious Worth and Vertue and as to this also they had their satisfaction so they prepared for Feasts Justs and other Combats to honour the Espousals but for the present all went to rest CHAP. XLIX Olivaires gives the Ring to Helena and espouses her with great pomp and feasting THE King's Sergeants prepared New Vestments Liveries Orâ—ments of Gold and of Jewels and all the Palace was hung with Tissue smooth Velvet and other rich Hangings for celebrating and solemnizing the Marriage they ordered twelve Bishops and one Archbishop for performing the sacred Ceremonies All the Kings had their Royal Robes on and the Dukes Knights Counts and all the Barons were in their proper habits so they made a show with their rich and splendid Pomp and Attire that stupify'd the Spectators two Kings were elected to lead Helena to the Altar and the rest attended on Olivaires The King was admirably attired with all his Court and so Helena with all her Ladies and Olivaires also flourished in much grandezza The Musick was of infinite and most rare and admirable kinds The day appointed being come every one was ready to perform his Office and they went with the King to get Olivaires up and conduct him to the Chappel and with him were four Bishops and other four with Helena and all were to meet those other with the Archbishop who took the Ring which was brought invisibly to Helena and giving it to Olivaires the previous Ceremonies being duly performed made him espouse her at which the rejoycings of the People the gladness of the Court the noise of the Military Musick and the sweet Melody of the Sacred and Civil with a thousand other things that conduced to the celebrabing and great pomp of this Divine Solemnity cannot be expressed Afterward the Host was administer'd by the hand of the Archbishop and when Mass was done they went into the Hall where such a choice and sumptuous Dinner attended them that I think Jove himself with all his Divine Retinue would not have disdain'd to have been invited to and have been present to grace these Nuptials And all the Dishes being placed on the Table â—ew Liveries appeared and new Inâ—â—ruments sounded and it was amazing to see sit at one Table seven Kings and one Queen After Dinner orders were given for Dancing and after that for a noble Tilting where the Kings for the honour of the Espousals clad in choice Habit and Armour and on their best Horses justed against each other with laudable demonstrations of their Prowess but it was not agreeable for Olivaires to just that time When the Tilting was ended the two Kings received a most rich Present from the hands of Helena and she thanked them for so great a favour and they also bowed themselves to her and humbly thanked her for her Gift And now the time for Supper approached wherefore after a little respite they sat down to rich sumptuous and splendid Tables He who could penetrate into the secret thoughts of Lovers and as it were see Olivaires mind and desires and the ardent love Helena bore her nâ—w Spouse might safely say that that Day seemed to them both a very long one and even every hour a Year Supper being ended and the Dancing over the King rises from his Seat and embracing Helena and kissing her recommended her to her Husband then every one retired with much content to their several Apartments and the happy licens'd Couple went to taste that free bliss which nothing but Youth and Beauty and deeply inamour'd hearts is capable of or has any possibility to conceive It pleased Almighty God that the fair Helena conceived that night and blessed shall her Travail be for that of her shall be born a grand Champion for and Pillar of the Christian Religion as the English Chronicles fully and faithfully relate CHAP. L. The King goes in the morning to visit Olivaires and the Irish Kings take their leave and of other things OLivaires and Helena turn'd night into day and day into night the custom of all new married Couples especially such passionate Lovers as they so that after Dinner the King went into their Chamber and was very glad to find his Son in Bed and used some pleasant raillery to him for a while After Olivaires had got up and was drest the Irish Kings came before them and they took their leaves of them all and by Olivaires and the King they were presented with Horses for all uses and other things suitable to such a joyful time and such a Crown and Royal Majesty The Archbishop came and blessed that Fruit which was hoped to spring from them and all the Bishops gave them their benediction and the Feastings and Rejoycings being renewed they past many days in ease and jollity and the Kings of Ireland at their departure did assure them they would never forget such respect shewn and such Presents receiv'd After a just time Helena was delivered of a Boy and baptizing it with infinite pomp and splendor they gave it the name of Henry which as he advanc'd in years so did he in vertue and goodness supporting and diffusing the Catholick Faith and the Lord was most gracious unto them so that from that time at other nine months end she was in travel again and brought forth a Daughter whom they named Claritia who when come to years was not her admired Mother's inferior either for corporeal shape and beauty or endowments of mind Olivaires enjoy'd a quiet state and liv'd in all manner of peace ever together with his fair vertuous Consort praising thanking and adoring the infinite Goodness of Almighty God for his so great and inestimable Benefits And his Recreation-hours he spent in the Chace Gunning Hawking and other Princely Diversions When one day Envious Fortune watch'd an opportunity to disturb his happiness and obtain'd it as you shall read in the sequel of our Story CHAP. LI. Helena Dreams a Melancholy Dream her Lord being out at the Chace and sends him notice of it WITH what kind eyes Olivaires was look'd on and how much beloved of the Court and the whole Kingdom tongue cannot utter And all his pass-pass-time he spent in finding out wild Beasts in chacing and taking them Wherefore some of his Subjects neighbours to a rough and craggy Mountain about Two days Journey distant came to give him
notice how Two most fierce and overgrown old wild Boars did much destroy and lay waste their Country so that they obtain'd but little Fruits or good from their ground At the hearing of which news Olivaires upon his own account and also in prospect of their future advantage was hugely pleased and also gave them presents for the same and immediately he ordered his Hunters to make themselves ready their Toils and all things else that were necessary for such sort of Game So after Dinner Olivaires mounts his Horse and goes for the place and lodged that night at a homely Village the â—ight following Helena lying alone saw in a Dream the White Knight appear to her that gave her the Ring who presented to her fancy a fierce Lioness Assaulting Olivaires in the Chace and so hurting him that he â—emained Wounded on the spot then â—anished Whereupon suddenly with â—â—ill screeches she awak'd and waâ—â—n'd also the Ladies that lay by her and having told them her Dream she also after related it to the King assuring her self it was over-true some sinister Accident would befal Olivaires and therefore dispatched Couriers away to give Olivaires intelligence of it that he might proceed no further toward the Chace who quickly as swift as the wind went after him to overtake him and overjoy'd they were when they found him safe and cheerful and the whole account they gave him both by Letters and word of Mouth The advice pleased Olivaires who yet went on for the Chace as one who feared not any thing being within his own Realm and among People that loved and were observant of him Then he dismiss'd the Messengers and bid them let Helena know That he would be with her the following Evening So she rested well content for that he would take care of himself and was at present in safe condition CHAP. LII One of the Irish Kings coming to pay Tribute to the King of England finds Olivaires alone in a dismal grove who transported with desire of catching his Prey is severed from his Company and taken Prisoner THE Hunters by break of day went with Olivaires to the â—lace where were shewed them the â—odges of those great and fierce Boars â—nd the Hunters as need required â—eing separated to their particular â—tands and passes the Dogs went into â—he thick of the Grove to fetch them â—orth from their Dens Olivaires â—tood in a more common and trodden â—ath in expectation of the Boar and â—ortune which took a pleasure in exercising and putting on hardships â—he bravest Knight of the world sent â—he Savage his way and he smiting him and that flying and he pursuing it happened that the other Boar sallied out of the Grove and took a contrary rode wherefore the Hunterâ— having not spied that which Olivaireâ— Chac'd all went after the other and although some followed their Masterâ— so swift a race the wild Animal led them and Olivaires was much the foremost in pursuit they lost their way but lighting on a track they returned back having lost that of their Master by reason of the large fallen leaves that had strew'd the ground Olivaires still pursued the Savage and so far got engag'd in the Grove that he quite lost his way not knowing in what place what ground or whereabout he was here then comes to his mind Helena's Dream and he knew not what to think but night hasting on he traverses this way and that way and at length frees himself of the Grove but far enough he was from any dwellings and he saw coming far off a great many Horse which much cheer'd him thinking they were his own company but â—hen they came near for 't was beâ—inning to be dark he found it to be â—e of the Irish Kings King Maqueâ—â—'s Son who was slain at the Tiltâ—â—g and knowing Olivaires he cry'd â—o this is he who kill'd the King â—y Father wherefore let him be 〈…〉 z'd since Fortune has offer'd me so 〈…〉 r an opportunity Olivaires having â—ly his Javelin puts himself yet â—â—ary in posture of defence but it â—â—aking after he had slain some of â—â—em he was taken and bound 〈◊〉 under a strong Guard conducted 〈◊〉 the night toward the Realm of â—â—land and in a well-fortified and 〈…〉 y Tower was committed to the â—â—vernor's custody having charge to â—â—p him strict Prisoner till the King's â—urn neither suffering to talk with 〈◊〉 see any body and the Irish King 〈◊〉 on his Journey to the King of â—â—land's Court and having done his 〈…〉 age he stayed a little for that 〈…〉 aw the Court in mighty Affliction and Grief because Olivaires could no where be found and then he returned home Olivaires was in a bottom room of a most high Tower and much afflicted he prayed unto God that he would consolate his Lady and the King and also aid him in his miserable condition One time the Governor of the Fortress carrying him Meat himself took great notice of him and was amazed at his admirable Aspect and moved with Compassion said Sir you be some noble Cavalier I am so replied Olivaires Then subjoin'd the other Make me Promise that you will not endeavouâ— escape out of the Fortress and I wilâ— free you from this close Confinement 〈◊〉 Olivaires told him he would not on his Royal word for said he I am Olivaires then he brought him out and gave him the whole Castle for his spacious Prison with infinite Caresses Had I well Chastiz'd my Enemy said Fortune's harass'd Knight and beeâ— more severe with him for his Audaâ— city I should not for life given have received a death but since it so pleases the grand disposer Lo I patiently bear it Mean while the King and Helena made search through the whole Kingdom through all the shady Groves and remote Woods among the obscure Caverns Recesses and Valleys and o're all the high Mounâ—ains for Olivaires One time fearing â—he might be fallen into a swoon anoâ—her lest some wild Beast might have â—evoured him sometime thinking that Highway-men might have lighted on him and slain him At length not getting any news of him they gave themselves up wholly to Grief and Lamentations and those that had seen Helena would rather have â—hought her a wild Beast than a Woman whilst she pluck'd off her Hair â—cratch'd her Face rent her Garments screek'd out aloud and would â—or take either any Meat or Rest The â—ing was astonished and struck alâ—ost dead with this Accident and all Fashion and good Order neglected the Court became a melancholy heedless and confused Crew for every one much feared the life both of Helena and the King so excessive was their Affliction and the dolors and sighs that proceeded from their breasts did so affect and trouble the Lords and Knights as almost to break their hearts He who had heard the praises Olivaires had given him of the King and seen what a blow of discontent this Accident had given the Crown would have been very sensible his Majesty
the News the King so recovered himself of a sudden that he rose from his Couch and honourably rewarded those that brought it and gave order for Feasts Triumphs and great Rejoycings And understanding his entry into the City was to be the next Day great Multitudes went out to meet him and the King himself And when he was near he run to embrace him and clung fast to him but could not speak for Joy But he moved with compassion for his Brother Olivaires was inwardly much troubled All the Knights and Lords kissed his Hands and the World kept a Jubilee every place re-ecchoed with rare Voices and musical Instruments both Civil and Military The King having taken a little breath embraced him again and said O my Son Olivaires your coming has lengthened my Days Sir my departure was forced and I have undergon great affliction on account of the Love which I know your Majesty always entertains for me but I hope in God to make amends for all the Evil my absence has caused And the Bounty and Kindnesses I have received from you I will never forget CHAP. LVIII Arthur's entry into London and the visit he gave Helena who is ravished with Joy WHen the King and Arthur came to the City such multitudes of People so throng'd in the Streets that they could scarce pass through them all the Ladies stood in the Windows singing pleasant Songs suiting the Occasion all the Streets were adorned with fine Hangings and all the Clergy met them firmly believing it was their King all the Bells rung merrily and wonderful Bonfires were made on the tops of the Palaces Helena inquired the meaning of all this Festivity and what was the reason of such Solemnity but she could not learn for the Physicians had given charge against too sudden a communication of the News unto her that the over eager Joy might not produce ill not to say fatal Effects Wherefore warily and by degrees they hinted it to her that Olivaires was come She assuredly gathering as much lift up her Hands to Heaven blessing and praising God for so great a Mercy May the hour of my Death come when it shall please him for I shall not fear it after having had once more a sight of my dearest Consort And she would have raised her self up making indeavour from her Bed but her weakness would not permit Oh what ravishment gave to her Soul the thoughts of seeing her Husband Olivaires The King clome up the Stairs having Arthur by the Hand nor would let go till he had brought him to Helena's Bed-side who threw her Arms about his Neck every one of them Weeping she for Joy believing 't was Olivaires he out of Pity and Compassion for the true Olivaires So being undiscovered he invented agreeable things to discourse of with Helena till time of Supper Then the King sent for him but Helena detained him to sup with her The Physicians ordered that he should not sleep with Helena she would not consent unto it Then Arthur went into her Bed but lay as if he had not been there for Arthur said I am obliged by a Vow against all Lasciviousness either in Thought or Deed until first as I have promised unto God I pay Reverence and Homage to the holy Apostle James Therefore I desire you would excuse me for it is an Ordinance of God and in that time you will recover your Health She was very well contented and asked him how his departure was and where he spent so long time without her and said she fully believed 't was a forced thing He told her it was so and that he could not have endured so long an absence but that it was necessary he might not appear before the time for accomplishing his Vow CHAP. LIX Arthur feigning to go to discharge his Vow goes for freeing Olivaires out of Prison ARthur remained a few days at the Court and all the Courtiers were amazed at the gentleness and beauty of his Lion but then urged by his love for Olivaires he discreetly imparted to the King and Helena his intentions of going to discharge his Vow and said he after would immediately return The King commended his devotion and his Train having all made ready leave taken and promise made of a speedy return he departed When he was gone on his way some days Journies he ordered his Attendance to make a stop and to stay where they then were till his coming back for that he would go alone unto this Duty without pomp in a plain and humble manner wherefore they were willing to stay behind and observe his pleasure and he said he would return back to them and go together with them unto his Kingdom In the morning then Arthur departs for a time accompanied with his Lion alone and he cross'd the Sea and enter'd Ireland and arrived at the place he parted from and they remembring him expressed great joy at the seeing him again At night when he slept the white Cavalier came and instructed him where Olivaires was and how he should go immediately and release him out of Prison for that the Lion was sent him of God for his Companion and that he ought to sollow his conduct who would bring him to the City and the place he had in Vision represented unto him Arthur gave him thanks for his obliging cure and also for his now much more obliging information concerning his Friend Olivaires then he disappeared Arthur waking saw the Sun was well advanc'd and rising from his Bed he followed the Lion who by secret and unknown ways conducted him in short time unto the City and when he was at the entrance he found the white Cavalier who said Ply thy Sword and my service to Olivaires and vanish'd The Lion then running into the City Arthur followed him on Horse-back after he enter'd a Garden where was the King and all his Nobles who seeing the fierce Animal were affrighted then Arthur laid his hand on his Sword and said Wicked King thou shalt not escape the just vengeance of Heaven At this all those Cavaliers were dismai'd and in so great fear that they could scarce draw their Swords in this juncture the white Knight with a great Army seiz'd the Piazza and gallop'd about the City as his own wherefore the King being depriv'd of his reli'd-on succor was all in despair and confusion CHAP. LX. Arthur takes the King Prisoner and sets Olivaires at Liberty THE Lion ran to make havock among those Cavaliers and slew many And Arthur smiting and making a large shammels of them opened himself a wide Lane and run after the King who endeavoured to get into the Fortress but Arthur overtook him with a cleaving stroke on his Head which would certainly have divided it had it hit fair but it glanced and brought him only to the Ground where he begs of Arthur for God's sake to save his Life Ah! unfaithful Man said Arthur Is this the reward of that Mercy and Generosity thou hadst
whom they were so strangely obliged O Olivaires I am that Master John Talbot I am that Cavalier whom thou didst conduct to his Native Country that Gentleman I am whom being excommunicated for a large Debt thou didst at thy own Expences discharging the Sum cause to be re-blessed and have Christian burial God for such Charity Brotherly love and thy goodness did command me to do such kindnesses for the Possessor of so honest an heart He delivered thee in all thy Distresses he at length hath tried and fully known that precious Soul which he has given thee That Elemosinary Pity which thou shew'd unto me shall also prepare thee a Mansion in the Heavens My giving the Black Habit signify'd my being in the state of damnation the Red Livery intimated the ardent Fire of Purgatory which hath purged away my sins the White Vestment manifested the Celestial Country which was opened unto me I served thee therefore with Arms Horses and Men I directed Arthur to the place and made him take thee out of Prison At that instant I seized the City I gave the Lion for a Companion to Arthur who killed the Monster and who fought like an Army in the Campaign I healed his Wound I gave the Ring of the King thy Father to Helena and I begged of the Lady to act with hers for giving thee her to Wife Therefore thou hast had every thing through me but acknowledge all from God as the Author And let each of you render infinite thanks unto him who hath delivered you out of so great Afflictions and who for the future will fill your hearts with joy and gladness All these words spoke the Cavalier and at last being surrounded with a Divine Splendor said Peace be with you fare you well for I mount to Eternal Life and vanished CHAP. LXXII The King and Queen pay their gratitude unto God and of the coming of the King of Dalgarve with the Espousals of Clarisia THE King and Queen rendered infinite thanks to Almighty God ever amazed and admiring at so strange a matter and terrible Accident as had befall'n them and they ordered that a solemn Thanksgiving should be made throughout the whole Kingdom unto the Lord Jesus Christ Arthur having in this time setled his Realm of Dalgarve went to the Court of Olivaires his Brother in-Law where he could never enough satisfy himself with looking on Clarisia both for her Beauty and Behaviour and in consideration that it was her Blood out of her own Veins that had cur'd him for which he every day gave thanks unto God One day Olivaires call'd to him and said My Brother who art ever in my heart and who hast done so much for me I much desire that you should marry if you fancy such a state I like your Majesty's Proposal very well reply'd Arthur but whom may you bestow upon me whom might it be convenient that you should give me my Clarisia who hath saved your life she shall be your right Eye your Soul and dear Companion for by your good deeds and carriages towards me you have deserved her And as they were designing to make this Alliance four Lords came post from England to signify to Olivaires that the King had been seiz'd with an Apoplexy whereof he died in a day's time which news made a melancholy Court and they all went into mourning The Funeral was ordered and the solemn Ceremonies duly performed After some time the Nuptials of Arthur and Clarisia were concluded on and all things prepared and fitted for the celebration and Arthur was crowned King of England by Olivaires The report whereof spread suddenly all over the Realm Whereupon Counts Knights and Barons came to the Feasts and Justs and all the Cities sent to make congratulation then after a convenient time's stay Arthur went to England and gave the Government of Dalgarve to his Natural Son and constituted him Vice-roy a person of a gentle virtuous valiant and admirable Genius CHAP. LXXIII Arthur King of England goes to London and Henry is made Commander of an Army against the Infidels HE who would have taken a true estimate of the love between Olivaires and Arthur should have been present to see their parting when he went from Spain For I believe his heart was well nigh burst with sorrow and Helena seeing her Daughter go away was fill'd with extream grief at last they took leave and departed with a great comely and honourable Train A few days after an Embassy from the King of Cyprus arrived to Olivaires to demand Aid of him against the Enemies of the Catholick Faith and Olivaires designed to go suddenly himself in person for such an Enterprize But his young Son Henry hearing of it begged of his Father to leave the conduct and management of his Forces to him for that he desired to get a name and honourable repute among famous Cavaliers which favour though with difficulty he obtained Having made him then General Royal he gave him Twenty five thousand well armed Men and when he had put them all in right order and had made ready their Ammunition and all things necessary for the War and their March he departed for Cyprus 'T was a grand affliction to Helena to see her self deprived of both her Children at once At his going away a great number of Spanish Cavaliers accompanied him and some went with him to Cyprus others joined with him in battel and assisted him When Prince Henry was arrived in the Kingdom of Cyprus he united his with the other Army and with mighty fury fell on the Enemy and got a glorious Victory Wherefore all following and adhering to him as a prudent and valorous Prince he resolved to give them a total rout and destroy them all and take many Countries before he made his return into Spain The news of this his so successful first Attempt was brought to Olivaires and Helena which wonderfully pleased them and rejoyced the whole Kingdom CHAP. LXXIV Arthur's Entry into England and of the Feasts Triumphs and other Justings made for the Nuptials and of a Rebellion of the Kingdom WHEN King Arthur made his Entry into England a thousand Lances and a thousand Men on Horseback all clad in Silk came to meet him Cavaliers Counts Marquesses and an infinite number of Knights and Gentlemen received and attended on him with his Consort Clarisia and they admired her for being the Daughter of so beautiful a Lady the Daughter of one of their Kings and fancied they had got Helena again so much she resembled her Thither to the Nuptials was concourse of all the most valiant Knights that were in the whole Kingdom and infinite Turney and Justing they made and many days the Court was abroad After that Arthur was publickly inaugurated and with the assistance of Excellent Counsellors he put in good order his whole state and disposed every thing for the best it pleased God that Clarisia conceived and at the due time brought forth a lovely Boy and