to give it interruption by his addresses so that he walked up and down a green walke demanding such questions as were necessary for his information untill the youth also modestly desired some satisfaction concerning his adventures which was the easier granted since the relation not onely suited well enough with the Princes intention of courtesie and affability but with the conveniency of the time when they were both seated upon the same root that had been Cassianus uneasie pillow he gave him this instruction of his fortunes with few or no circumstances but what many deepe sighes contrived My Father said he Prince of Iberia was in his youthfull yeeres inflamed with the report of the excellent beauty of Elizana your Kings sister whose fame could not be circumscribed within the limits of Lydia which made him after a long solicitation by Letters take a journey in person to the Court to tender the affection and respects due to a Lady of so eminent birth and vertues notwithstanding he seemed not to bring with him dignity titles riches sufficient to deserve so glorious a match This I must tell you rendred the Queen her mother then living an absolute enemy to his courtships supposing her daughter to be undervalued by the choice nevertheless the State of Lydis finding not onely a certaine concurrencie in their loves but an agreement of their Religions for that both Countries had left the obedience of Deâ—phoâ—â— perswaded the King her Father to the alliance supposing all other defects would be buried by those unities so that in a short time the Marriage was solemnized with most magnificent Ceremonies though in the interim the triumphes were something obscured by the sudden death of the Prince her elder Brother whose disposition in his life gave such opinions of his future greatness that the world began already to tremble with the very apprehension of his fate yet the accident advanced my Mother a step neerer to the Crowne since there was none left of the Race to inherite but my Uncle Euarebus and her selfe and this by consequence made my Father in the apprehension of Asia a far greater Prince then his own Fortunes could pretend unto insomuch as returning into his native Countrie with his illustrous Bride what honour could be imagined was cast upon him by the admiring people which honours raised excessively his aspiring thoughts notwithstanding many of his own ranke began to envy his prosperity especially one Tygranes Duke of Colchis who ever esteemed himself in possession the more powerfull Prince In fine the Kingdom of Mesopotamia revolting at the same time from the jurisdiction of Artaxis King of Armenia my Father was earnestly solicited to take upon him the Crown since he was onely able by his power and alliance as the people pretended to defend their proceedings against their tyrannicall Lord who had usurped too great a Prerogative both over their Lawes and Consciences The offer in a manner was no sooner proposed to the ambition of his youth being tickled with the desire of bearing the name of a King though many had refused the same tender but he accepted of the Government promising his protection as the Subjects did their fidelity and in this hopefull agreement he was with all Ceremony and State dignified with the Diadem in the regall City of the Kingdome But the possession however it brought with it honour and dignity it lessened not his care or trouble since the glory was to be maintained now it was purchased This enterprise gave as earnest warning to Artaxis to be dilligent in providing Forces to suppresse the example and punish the esteemed Rebellion that else might prove a leading Card as he thought to the quiet state of the rest of his Dominions that began already to waver in their obedience as it did desire in my Father to maintain what he had got though it were with never so great a violence and hazard In the first place Artaxis dispatches Ambassadors not onely to all his friends in other Countries laying before them the dangerous consequences of such a Revolt but also sent Messengers to his owne Subjects possessing them with the feare of the Rebells insolencie however his endeavours so little prospered for the present to his advantage the first sort being too far off to give him speedy assistance as the other too disobedient to lend him much aide that his Generall was constrained to take the Field with a very small number onely the Armie within some few weeks became increased by an addition of Tygranes Forces whose envie to my Father notwithstanding the neere kindred betweene them had rendred him a most mortall enemie But Artaxis Generall finding it was full time to dispute the right by the Sword though upon any disadvantage since all protraction did but increase the peoples suspition of the Kings disability that was not able to chastise one Subject who seemed to rebell against his Majesty and Power with as much courage as could proceed from desperate hopes marched against the City where my Father continued his Court guarded with Souldiers sufficient to have besieged Artaxis whole Armie if their hearts and affections had been answerable to their number and accommodation And in this posture the Generall not onely sets upon the wall the Garrison not expecting the boldnesse of the attempt but in a short time became master both of the Gates and Streets to the confused amazement of all the Inhabitants who seemed neither to have will nor power to resist so that the strange news scarce giving conveniencie and time to my Father with his whole Family to flye from the danger he had not opportunity to draw his Sword in the defence of himselfe and Crowne but through private and obscure Woods was constrained to convey his Wife and Children untill he arrived under the protection of a Common-weale that at the beginning of the designe had lent a willing and considerable aide to the action Artaxis hearing of this extraordinary successe not onely beyond his expectation but in a manner above all belief caused publick Sacrifices to be made to the Gods through the chiefe Temples that he might not seeme in the peoples apprehensions to be ungratefull for such large benefits and to increase the more his Subjects opinions that the very heavens intended to fight for his Right since he made Religion the chiefe cause of the Warre he gave it out the Victory was no lesse then miraculous since his Generall as 't was said had bin instructed in the assault by a divine Revelation which had made him venture upon so desperate an enterprise but however the King was thought by many over superstitious yet the Generall and Tygranes omitted no industry to render our House miserable the first continuing in those parts after the battle with halfe the Army to suppresse the last sparkles of common Rebellion as the other led the rest into Iberia my Fathers Countrey to make himselfe Master of that Territory bestowed upon him by Artaxis
your Fathers Court however I was before-hand convinced in the improbability of the demand where neverthelesse by chance I met with a ship of those Pirates that had fled from the rest that tooke you prisoner not being consenting to your transportation into Aegypt which was put into that Harbour with a resolution if they could not be admitted speedily into the service of Evarchus against his owne Subjects who had already as 't was reported imployed most of his royall Navy against his Command they would direct their course to Tyre to make the same offer to Orsames your Uncle by which meanes I became absolutely informed of them of all those passages that concerned your Person amongst the Pirates before your comming to Memphis but they receiving a refusall by reason the King your Father esteemed not himselfe yet ready for their assistance I determined to take the commodity of that ship for my transportation into Syria however because the Vessell needed some reparation before it could goe out of the Haven of Caria I had sufficient leisure given me in a disguise to informe my selfe of the assaires of your Father as a duty belonging to you whom as I was told had lately quitted the City of Sardis and was retired for his greater security though with a very few company to Theatira a place as it was conceived much more addicted to his service upon my arrivall I found him in a condition in that City beyond my expectation not onely attended by most of the Gentry and Nobility of the Kingdome of Lydia but going to a great Assembly of people gathered together by his command unto whom he made an oration to this purpose My Lords said he and you the rest of my Subjects as I am not more glad to see this joyfull Declaration of your Duties to my Service then willing to imploy my best endeavours for your protection so I hope the Gods will give me the power still to be your King notwithstanding the cunning and malicious practices of many who have sought to bereave me of that honour alledging I have a will rather to become a tyrant then continue a Governour but for that this meeting is principally designed that you may the better know me and I be more assured of you I shall strive to let you see my acts and thoughts in the first place no sooner was I throughly possest of the grievances of my Kingdomes but I assembled the great Councell to give them redresse wherein I not onely condescended to passe such decrees as were thought necessary for that purpose but assured the continuance thereof absolately to bury all feares and jealousies that might arise by reason of any doubt of my inconstancy however this is now so farre turned to my disadvantage that I am not onely denyed any more mannaging the affaires of the Common-weale contrary to the known Lawes of Lydia but have been in a manner forcibly driven from Sardis my regall City with disorderly tumults neither can probably be again established in my ancient right without your assistance In the second place I can give you no stronger assurance then my deep vowes to the gods that I will never change the laws customs and religion of the Kingdome which are testimonies sufficient for your beliefe against calumniations and false aspersions cast about in your eares to my prejudice since in your loves I mean rather to rule then by my own Sword And now I shall proceed to let you see the danger to your selves by this intended change of Lawes though before you can be entirely instructed therein you must be throughly informed of the constitutions of your own present government the best composed certainty of all other since it is a Monarch of that restriction that it neither takes from the King that power that is necessary for his obedience nor yet leaves the subject in a slavish subjection so that if he would he cannot be a Tyrant and if he will he may be a Prince in the one the people are invited to obey with love and in the other the Soveraigne is compelled to govern with humanity since he hath not power to be over-insolent as the subject liberty to be licentious in so much as there will now rest nothing but to mark out to your understandings my Priviledges and your rights whereby you may the more clearly distinguish of the unhappy differences between me and my Senate which as I take it is the plainest way of demonstration since the matter is brought into fact and not left to opinion To this purpose I challenge by the lawes customes and fundamentall constitutions of this Kingdome never yet contradicted or disputed by any time the creating of Nobility ordaining officers pardoning offenders confiscations of offenders raising of Forces making warre or or peace convocating of dismissing Senates and a negative voice in the proceedings as undoubted prerogatives belonging to the Crown of Lydia not to be invaded by the endeavour of any subject without incurring those penalties that belong to the crime of treason against the Kings person of the other side the people may justly pretend to this liberty the absolute freedome of their lives which they cannot forfeit without a legall triall by men of their own rank and Countrey a power to enjoy and dispose of their goods without the leave of any person whatsoever and a successive inheritance in their lands that cannot be interposed by any of another blond or kindred the first gives the Prince such a jurisdiction as is necessary for his government the other maintaines the people in a pleasing freedome to themselves without the one there must needs follow that which can produce nothing but confusion and lacking the other men are so enthralled that they must needs want courages to defend or good their Countrey wherefore if I lack that fitting right that belongs unto a King you must misse of that protection needfull for subjects since the disputation of command onely will distract the resolutions of such as are commanded in their obedience 〈◊〉 whereby profitable resolutions cannot be put in execution Besides if I should poorly suffer my ancient right to be invaded can it be though my lasting posterity will be content in after ageâ— with such a losse since they will have maâ—â— Princes stung with the example to assist them in the justnesse of the quarrell which will at last either endanger the Subjects of the Kingdom to be made captives to forraigne power or at the least fill the whole Realm with blood and slaughters to its absolute destruction So that I say as these were most laudable constitutions conveyed unto you by the wisdome of your ancestors so doe not you by your own stupid wilfulnesse for no better can I call it endeavour to abolish that excellent government that hath continued you happy for so many ages resembling the Giants that made a preposterous warre with heaven untill they and their proud endeavours were all buried in a confused destruction
might enjoy the felicity of one anothers conversation at last Cloria asked her brother how he liked the wisedome of her Governesse which gave him occasion to tell her that he did not now wonder how she had passed through the intricacie of so many dangerous adventures having had so faithfull and discreet a Pilot to guide her in the vast sea of such desperate accidents In the meane time this delighted company past away their howers in such conversation as most tended to Euarchus wished prosperity sometimes complaining of the unrelenting cruelty of the Senate that could so long detaine their just and mercifull King in a darke prison instead of casting themselves at his feet humbly to desire pardon for their offences otherwhiles againe they would entertaine their thoughts with new hopes of his releasement by powerfull Armies sent into Lydia by all the Princes of Asia in which number Narcissus had no low ranke in the opinion of lovepartiall Cloria neither seldome did they agree in beliefe that the generall distractions of the Kingdome would soon put an end to the differences without any other assistance untill these diversities of fancies carried them one day into the garden where Clorias diligent servant in the view of other attendants observed so carefully the directions of her charge that she made alwayes election of those fruit that the Princesse intention did but only covet and presented them to be made more beautifull by the touch of her white hand In these entertainments I say they continued untill an ancient Lord of the Senate who had not altogether put off his duty and affection to the Kings posterity with a seeming joy that made him forget his accustomed ceremonies to the Princesse Cloria not onely suddenly entred the Garden but made a kind of rude passage through the crowd of such as waited neere her person and with a breathlesse voyce informed her that that very morning as the Nobility were sitting in their own Councell chamber divided by a partition from the common assembly of the lower Senate they were saluted in a tumultuous manner by may thousands of people having their leaders of much greater quality with a petition that not onely complained of the proceedings of the Army but desired they might again speedily enjoy the liberty of their King the freedome of the Lawes and an establishment of their Religion as they said absolutely obstructed from their possession by the licentious power of the Souldiers under Farezius command whom as they intimated they had formerly chosen to be their Captaine for some season but not to be a tyrant against their priviledges for ever vowing withall that as they would not depart the great City of Sardis without a direct answer so were they resolved to procure an accomplishment of their just requests to the hazzard of their lives and fortunes O Madam said he how these brave beginnings inflamed our soules with new courages notwithstanding we could not chuse in some sort but reflect upon our own poornesse of spirit or at leastwise dulnesse in understanding that never went about to put in execution what these people propound at present for their and our advantages Truely replied the Princesse Cloria although I cannot but commend these peoples understandings that appeare to have some sense and feeling of their reputations yet must I a great deale more extoll their courages that dare expose themselves to maintaine those small priviledges which by a certaine kind of birth-right they have received from their honest and wise ancestors when as you of the Nobility of the contrary seem altogether stupid in the apprehension of such honourable rights that appertain to your qualities left you by the brave endeavour of your most Noble predecessors who were at the first so spleenative indiscreet in your passions against your Prince though without any known cause whatsoever that you were content to sacrifice your known own advantages above the common all people onely that you might but destroy him and his prerogative not leaving your selves so much power as to be able again to recover your own dignities These words and reproofe of the Princesse almost put the Nobleman out of his tale but she finding him something out of countenance encouraged him to the prosecution of his relation Madam said he when we had thanked them for their prudent admonition as we termed it what our own duties should have remembred we presently dismissed them with other speeches and promises that sufficiently contented them for the instant After they were gone I must tell you we were sent to the other part of the Senate sitting in another room distinct from ours intimating we desired some conference with them whereby the people might be rendred satisfied in their seeming just demands upon our meeting many things were propounded to that purpose as well concerning our selves as the souldiers but what will be the issue of these proccedings for my part I am not able to divine onely we are informed that the multitude will not depart from the City of Sardis untill they have received such answer as may in some sort give content to their thoughts which either must settle the Kingdom in a probable posture for peace and quietnesse or so inflame the Armies resolutions that they will endeavour to become masters of the whole With these words he abruptly took his leave as if his apprehensions had been transported only by imaginary conceipts As soone as the Lord had quitted the garden and the rest of the attendance being also removed some distance from them the Princesse Ascanius and Roxana began to fall upon considerations and discourses of the Kings affaires sometimes their hopes were carried to assure themselves that it was unpossible but those confusions must needs produce effects to that purpose since as they believed the souldiers of the Senate could not long agree and then the common peoples desires of necessity would again bring him into his Throne for they imagined that however there might be obstacles contentions for the present in regard of the extraordinary power of the army yet the souldiers at the last could not but admit of a King more willingly then any other Generall of their own ranke to command over them besides they doubted not but the Nobility and the City of Sardis would joyne together to establish Euarchus in the same honour and dignity as he was in before these late troubles since the consequences had already not a little impoverished the whole Kingdom and what it would doe further if it should continue might very well be feared though as yet not certainly known In that the dignity of a Court probably would as well confirme the one in their hereditary priviledges as inrich the others by traffique and commerce seeing it was chiefly the better sort of persons that took off the commodities of the Merchants These pleasant apprehensions invited them all three to take some delight in a certaine beautifull and refreshing Grote encompassed round about by an
said before received golden liberalities in the time of the old King he being a Prince that knew no way how to be provident when they found that Euarchus numerous issue and the Queenes necessary expences did in a manner drowne all their expectation first began to mutter in words against the accustomed vanities of the times and lastly they found fault that only smooth faced boys enjoyed as they said all the credit of the Court when Souldiers and men of valour wanted both countenance and meanes to live the King being so bewitched to his own ease and his wives content that he could not be drawne to helpe his own brother in law against the oppression of the King of Armenia by which warre many might be imployed that now wanted subsistance nor was there wanting in Lydia it selfe many factious spirits that not only received encouragement by this bold language who also coveted state preferment in the government of the Common weale yet these begun discontents lay hid in the cinders of some duty untill new taxations of the Subjects gave more desperate distastes besides the accidentall arrivall of Prince Cassianus in Lydia after his Fathers death stirred up the pride of one Dimogoras to a new spleen against the King by which means he believed he should be the sooner imployed But that which seemed most to contribute to Euarchus prejudice was the sudden arrivall of an old Myssian Captaine out of the warres of Armenia called Lycius who having gained in those services good store of wealth sued to the King to have himselfe rewarded by Titles of honour which being denyed him by some neglect as also Cassianus request for a competent assistance a little protracted this insolent Commander quickly flew from the Court with execrations in his mouth and malice in his heart and comming into his own Countrey omitted no diligence that could withdraw the people from their lawfull obedience which he had the better opportunity to effect since he found not only the nobility ambitious but the Priests violent The one he perswaded with brave spirits againe to looke upon the courage of their Ancestors who had by force of Armes torne priviledges from their King the other he admonished to cast their thoughts upon the recovery of that religion now almost lost that had formerly chaced their former Queen both from her Kingdome and life and for the common people it was sufficient to plead to their imaginations liberty by whose perswasion the nobility not only raised a power absolutely to contemne the Kings authority in their own Country of Myssia but also led a great Army into Lydia whereby to compell Euarchus to summon the great Councell of the Kingdome To be short when this eminent assembly was met as it was designed in the City of Sardis which was also assured to be made a free Towne as much as to say as not to be compelled to any obedience to Euarchus and his posterity the chiefest discourses that were made there were in disgrace of the Kings actions and almost all the Acts that past were to destroy his authority All which the milde King suffered with a world of patience hoping that time after they had wearied themselves with their violent passions would let them see their own mistakes or the gods at leastwise would defend his innocency however these unexpected proceedings not only continued but their rage grew to such a height against his person whereby as 't was thought to bring him into the greater contempt amongst the common people that by divers tumults countenanced in the multitude he was at last forced from the City of Sardis whilst the Senate in the interim instituted a strong guard of Souldiers of the Towne Forces to wait upon their Councels because they would shew to the Subjects greater markes of Soveraignty in their Assembly then in the Kings dignity But whilst many were brewing their own passionate designes with uncredible insolency being chiefly supported by the votes of the common people who were perswaded they should recover by their authority an absolute liberty the poore King with a very small traine retired to the City of Theatyra where however contrary to the expectation of the Senate who believed that their discountenance was sufficient to render him abandoned by the whole Kingdome he not onely received better welcome but was entertained with the generall commiseration of most of those parts who bitterly complained of his hard and as they thought unjust usage and the rather did this pitty prevaile for that by his eloquent and fluent Pen he seemed fully to beat back all the aspersions his enemies sought daily to cast upon him which brought as I say to his Court multitudes of gentry and nobility both from the City of Sardis and other parts who vowed perpetuall faithfulnesse to his person with other essentiall services These encouragements by the perswasion of his trusty Councellors made him imploy his best industry to raise Souldiers whilst in the inteâ—im he sent to the Queen whom he understood was in the Island of Cyprus to procure him Armes by the credit she had purchased with the Duke of that Country since the Senate had already seized upon all his Magazin and ships After which he went from one Province to another to feele the inclination of the people yet as he found most of them for him in their words when he was amongst them whether out of the inconstancy of their own natures or unwilling to be at any charge to maintaine new troubles as soone as be left them personally they were for the greatest number carried from their former professions so that he perceived the successe of his whole fortunes was chiefly to depend upon the gallantry of the better sort And truly this expectation did not deceive him for in a short space beyond all beliefe they so furnished him with moneys besides their own attendance that he became master of a brave Army commanded by his nephew Prince Thyasinus who was newly arrived in his Campe from the Armenian warres The Senate who before had raised Forces to contend against the Kings intentions according to the intelligence they had received not to be sloathfull in their affaires quickly created Dimogoras generall in the designe whom they knew was a man never to be reconciled to his Soveraigne by reason of the spightfulnesse of his own violent ambition no sooner was he establisht in his office but he was commanded to march as they pretended to separate the King from pernitions Councels and bring him safe to Sardis there to be better governed to which purpose that City had plentifully furnished money conceiving their prosperity depended upon their Princes ruine This resolution was quickly knowne to Euarchus and not long after considered by his Councell that it was high time to advance with the whole Army to try the fortune of a battell with the Senates Generall since the King wanted provision and could not expect supplies of money to furnish out the necessary expence
with this determination termination after two or three dayes march they met the Senates forces upon an ample Plaine spacious enough to have desided the controversie for the worlds Empire the conflict of a sudden grew so desperate that it was a question whether they sought more to satisfie their own spleenes or to gaine a beneficiall Victory which however was prosecuted for some houres with doubtfull fortune for although the Kings horse commanded by Thyasmus in person at the first charge defeated their enemies in so much as for many Furlongs they had the chace of their Troops yet the Foot Forces in their absence that for the most part wanted armes had sufficient imployment to sustaine the fury of the Senates Souldiers being better provided which however was bravely supplyed by the noble valour of the King himselfe in so much as he sustained the violence of the tempest untill his own horse again came into his rescue though with such a slaughter of his poor Subjects that it created a passionate compassion in his royall breast although the determinable fate of his Crowne might very well have given a full imployment to his thoughts Upon Thyasmus appearing with his victorious Troopes Dimogoras retired with his worsted Forces and the night hindred farther prosecution for the present which as I may say enviously shaddowed the Kings glory who else could not have been defrauded as 't was thought of a most absolute Conquest to his immortall honour if not to his Kingdoms prosperity However he resolved the next morning early againe to set upon his enemies who were retired for their better safety within the protection of their secure Trenches but contrary to his expectation Dimogoras belike fearing Euarchus intention and unwilling to hazzard the Senates fortunes in one doubtfull adventure had made use of the darke coverture of the night to convey himselfe and his whole Forces to a strong Towne not farre off remaining under his jurisdiction Neverthelesse so much opinion this halfe Conquest got amongst the common people that many Cities presently returned under the obedience of their lawfull Prince whilst in the meane time the King made Philadelphia the chiefe residence of his Royall Court where againe he began to rule like a Monarch and suffered his other Generals in many parts of the Kingdome to prosecute his commands with such prosperous successe that in a short space he became in a manner master of all Lydia though the great Towne of Sardis seemed still with most obstinate pride to contemne his power being more in love with that passion that made them hope to be a free City and the covetousnesse to obtaine that money they had disbursed then mindfull of their own safety and obedience The King who began to thinke now the difficulty of his affaires were past all danger began a little to play with the weaknesse of his enemies in so much as his Souldiers became neglected in their discipline as the commanders licentious in their course of life which certainly contributed extreamely to all his misfortunes for being provoked either by unwise if not Traiterous Councell or put on by his own just spleen to see himselfe in the height of all his Victories disobeyed by weake Forces suddenly besieged a small City that lay in the very heart of his new Conquests conceiving his enemies wanted power of resistance or at least ability to bring him any incommodation which made his Troopes lesse carefull to prevent correspondency But the Towne finding it could not hold out long against so strong a siege gave private intelligence to the Citizens of Sardis who apprehending the losse would absolutely turne to their ruine since the King would be sure as they believed after to imploy the rest of his endeavour in their subversion when he should have finished the desgine in hand that only opposed him of a sudden sent out under the command of Dimogoras the Souldiers of Sardis it selfe that untill then were never known to remove many Furlonges from the smoake of their own chimneyes to try if it were possible to raise the Kings siege and with as quick an expedition as they were able marched towards the Campe imagining that the successe of this voyage was to determine their fates whether to remaine free Citizens or become conquered flaves Euarchus when he heard of this new and unexpected supply so much contrary to his imagination however rumours thereof had formerly come to his eares thought it his best course rather to fight with them in the open Fields then in continuing in his Trenches to hazard the danger of being starved for want of provision with these purposes after he had quitted the Walls of the Towne he advanced towards their quarters with a hope to set upon them in the plain Champaine since he conceived he had much the advantage of horse though his foot was of a farre lesse number But though the King omitted no industry to compasse his designe yet being betrayed by the common people in his intelligence who ever favoured the Senate more then their Soveraigne Dimogoras got some dayes journey towards the City of Sardis before Euarchus knew of his remove the designe of the Generall being no other now he had freed the City from danger but to get againe safe with his whole Army to the place from whence he came The King as he was enraged with this secret escape so was he resolved if it were possible to fight with him upon any termes since the contrary as he imagined would prove in the opinion of the multitude of no lesse a consequence then a Victory obtained by his adversaries To that effect as soone as he had overtaken his enemies by tedious marches he set upon them with desperate inconveniences not only for that they had locked themselves in inclosed Countries but never came out of their Trenches to sâ—irmish by which meanes the Kings Cavalry proved of no service so that as I may say by reason of these unfortunate disadvantages Euarchus after twelve houres fight could pretend but to a very small Victory which successe returned Dimogoras to the City of Sardis with some honour in regard that however he had not beat the Kings Forces it might be said upon the matter he had worsted his designes Neverthelesse although this gave the Generalls party not only encouragement for the present but hopes in abundance in the future especially for that the Kings Souldiers every where began both to be negligent and treacherous more seeming to rely upon the supposed justnesse of the cause then resolving constantly to defend it by any hazzard yet the Senate at Sardis doubting something their own fortune or successe notwithstanding what policy soever they could use in the Kings Campe resolved againe to bring in the Myssians into Lydia with a powerfull Army To this purpose they made a contract with them not only to pay them a very great sum of money both to defray their charges and reward their endeavours but also promised to
colour of their actions and intentions they appeared only with petitions in their hands instead of other weapons of danger With these thoughts I held it my best course to retire into the very heart or body of the City of Sardis as well to feele the pulse and constitution of the Inhabitants as the likelier to be informed by their intelligence concerning all other proceedings of the Kingdome neither in this designe was I much deceived in my expectation for sorting my conversation with watâ—rmen and other inferiour people I understood that as the rich Citizens of the Towne although they desire againe to have their King to governe over them though with some restriction in his power because they feare his revenge since otherwise as they believe they could probably expect nothing but a generall confusion so of the other side it is apparant the multitude for the most part desire a change not only in regard of the envy they beare to the Senate who more absolutely command over their persons and estates then the King ever did in his greatest glory but also in regard they doubt the Souldiers at the last will come to be Masters of every mans fortune which jurisdiction of all others they most detest in their natures and dispofitions As I was sufficiently satisfied in these inclinations of the people I repaired to the publike place of commerce for the whole City where in short amongst the Merchants I understood that not onely a great part of the Navy was revolted to the King the Marriners being encouraged thereunto by some Senators which Farezius the Generall had formerly sent into banishment but that the Myssians were also preparing a great Army by the directions of the Kingdom of Syria suddenly to invade Lydia on the Kings behalfe These newes giving my endeavours sufficient encouragement still to prosecute my designe for other intelligences within three or foure daies afterward I became certainly informed that the Senate being not able or at leastwise not willing to give the multitude satisfaction according to the desire of their petitions they had in great numbers not onely taken up armes for their own defence in regard they understood that Farezius had directions notwithstanding the opposition of the Lords to march towards their assemblies with all his power but they had also seized upon many Castles and Towns towards their enterprize and assistance in the Kings name with whom in like manner many of the Nobility joyn with considerable Forces Last of all you may be pleased to know That Hercrombrotus Lieutenant Generall to Farezius is of a sudden called away with a great part of the Army towards the confines of Lydia neere the City of Smyrna occasioned by reason of the revolt of some of his own Commanders who are joyned with the power and force of the Countrey to oppose the Senates proceeding which in effect is the full information I can give concerning my imployment When the Dwarfe had made an end of this relation the Princesse Cloria smiled upon her brother not onely to see how well the boy had performed his office according to the confidence her Governesse Roxana had in his wit and fidelity but withall in regard of the inward joy she felt concerning the King her fathers affaires that seemed now to be in a better posture then they were almost since the beginning of his troubles for she imagined by the consequences his subjects would be constrained for their own advantages to place him again in his Throne in a higher capacity of power then before Ascanius of the other side expressed also by his countenance the like gladnesse in so much as after a little space as if he had been in a manner transported with thoughts of delight and satisfaction according to his youthfull conceptions that were apt enough to entertaine all Ideas of content and felicity presently runne to his sister and whilst both his arms were cast about her neck he sealed as well his affection as his joy upon her Ruby lips by a multitude of sweet though more deere kisses but she at last either something apprehending the too much importunity of such affections or else desirous to inform her selfe better of other particulars told her brother in a jesting way that as she could scarce dispence with the rigid rules of her own modesty to have her virgin lips so assaulted although it were from an affectionate brother whose innocent vertue was beyond all possibility of scandall so did she of the other side exceedingly wonder that his own change of condition which onely procured his safety under the protection of the Castle where for the present they remained had not wrought in his disposition contrary effects to that quality wherein he was born since now he was to esteem himselfe rather a servant to fortune then a Prince by extraction not a Prince replyed Ascanius the gods defend I should ever harbour in my brest such poore and unworthy thoughts notwithstanding the injustice or malice of any fortune whatsoever no sister be you assured that both for your sake and my own I shall alwaies endeavour by my actions to shew that I am sonne to Euarchus and Hyacinthia and I doubt not but you will doe the like concerning your own particular But yet replied the sweet Princesse we are obliged in some sort to yield to our fates when we have not means sufficient left us to prevent them for if the Senate by a certain kind of a tyrannicall power granted them by the heavens perhaps onely in correction of our offences doe imprison and circumscribe our persons what matters of consequence can our mindes afford us to our advantage in such exigencies O say not so answered Ascanius for the mind is able to be a noble conquerour over all unfortunate disasters since in my youthfull studies I have read of many brave persons that in the highest expressions of tyranny and afflictions imposed upon their bodies by their worst and greatest enemies have at last in despight of all their cruelty born away the onely palme and Lawrell of victory as it were confounding their very perfecutors with the extraordinary constancy of their own sufferings These said Cloria I must confâ—sse are brave resolutions in words if they can be as well practised by actions for I must tell you that flesh and bloud cannot easily put off all naturall inclinations though I will not deny but the soule may doe miracles being ayded by divine considerations and oftentimes hath demonstrated wonderfull effects meerely out of some extraordinary sense or inflammation of honour both by Souldiers and Philosophers Truly said Ascanius then it were very hard being Kings children if we should not in our proceedings meet with some of these faculties to our benefit when as perhaps contemptible slaves in former ages have aboundantly exampled to our knowledge and edification such heroicall suffering As they were thus discoursing Roxana who had for a long space kept a most formall and grave silence thought it also convenient to shew her own wisdome the rather since her yeeres and experience pretended to a certaine kind of prerogative amongst those of the younger sort of people Truely said she as I cannot deny but that this extraordinary courage you mention is of a singular benefit to many sorts of people in their pressing and difficult occasions yet when with a wise though not a base complyance we can avoyd both the inconvenience and hazard to our selves with more ease and no dishonour I see no reason why we should goe about to straine nature to no purpose especially if we be not well assured to gaine a beneficiall victory by the contention And if we faile in that we seem to undertake we contract thereby a further mischiefe and disreputation to our selves then if we had not at all offered to contend against power and oppression at the first besides oftentimes those resistances in the dark shall never come truly to the knowledge of the world so that consequently we faile then of that glory our foolish and preposterous ambition aymed at by such resolutions by which means we shall be rather enterpreted to be blown up with vain-glorious fumes then seasoned with true fortitude In time the best mixture must be so to moderate our actions that as precipitately we put not our selves upon vain and needlesse sufferings without necessity so ought not we too much to yield to the inconstant stroakes of fortune and oppression when either honour or religion calls us to a publique demonstration of our bravery and courage But however these disputatious might either confirme Cloria or convert her brother yet Ascanius finding the opportunity for his own desired imployment in the Kings affaires he resolved as soon as possible he could to seek occasion for his own speedy departure which did not a little afflict the considerations of his sweet sister the Princesse Cloria who began to contract a most singular delight in the witty conversation of her deare brother Neverthelesse she resolved not to be so great a friend to her own passions as to become thereby an enemy to his honour and her fathers prosperity so that this being after some consultation determined on all sides Ascanius intended in some new disguise like a boy belonging to the Navy to steale privately away to sea under the protection of those officers that might afford him the conveniency to repaire to those ships that had revolted from the Senates service FINIS
was Cassianus fortune to entertaine the beautifull Princes Cloria as if the Gods intended him the opportunity but whether his fancie onely made him believe it or that really he did utter something of that nature to her innocent eares yet she seemed no way to be warmed by a lovers flames in so much as poore Cassianus became of a sudden as frozen as his Mistresses apprehensions since he too feelingly suspected a deniall in that suit which perhaps his own feares would not sufficiently suffer him to discover to her understanding And oftentimes too much desire renders us not onely unfit to act but uncapable to interpret but however these accidentall passages were either executed or entertained Euarchus and Hyacinthyas unexpected retirement for the present gave no more opportunity for a further triall of either which not onely quickly separated the company but retired the strangers into their severall chambers where Cassianus gave his eyes no leisure at all to rest by reason of the discurtesie of his own Turbulent thoughts that drove him from one unquiet fancy to another untill the more charitable morning invited him into something a handsome sleep but after two houres time that also was interrupted by factious Dimogoras who with a certaine kind of storm in his countenance entred abrâ—ptly his chamber which freedome he ever challenged by reason of the confidence he had of his own faithfulnesse to the Princes designes After Dimogoras had bestowed upon the Prince some few complements belonging to his dignity as well as answerable to the season he let him know he had some discourse of consequence to impart unto him if he pleased to dismisse his Attendants Those being gone and he invited by the Prince to seat himselfe upon his bed side for the more conveniency with a kind of melancholly and discontented countenance accompanied with a more hastie and rough delivery he entertained his eares with this language Although it be most true my Lord said he that it is given out by the spightfull Court and suffered by the Kings injustice that both my nature and desires with a great deale of violence hunt after nothing but contentions whereby I might come to have some eminent imployment in the warres yet I take all the Gods to witnesse who best are acquainted with my thoughts that your entire service is the chiefe motive of my designs grounded also upon the consideration both of the present and future honour and glory of our Nation now almost adulterated by ease and quiet though principally betrayed to this lethargie by the pernicious counsels of Pollinex that for his own advantage and ends flatters the King with the opinion of his conceived prosperity as if never before the like Prince had raigned in Lydia when as all Asia is scandalized at our government for Euarchus by reason of this cold newetrality is esteemed if not an enemy at least wise no friend to any but his own concernments and so can never expect a faithfull assistance from other States if he were compelled by the same necessity to require their ayd in any of his occasions though a little for the present he seemes to swim in all successefull glory In this inchantment you see it is not onely possible for him to behold your Rights violated by the violent and I may say tyrannicall oppression of your cruell enemies with a most quiet if not insensible demeanour notwithstanding all the tyes of Affection Kindred and Religion but in his owne person is wrought in to so low a stupidity and unworthy ingratitude that he cannot be brought to bestow the least reward or so much as any countenance upon men of spirit fame and desert witnesse our small title of honour denyed Lycius the brave Myssean Commander that so gallantly defended your cause against the King of Armenia's power This being sufficiently apprehended in your thoughts I shall a little shew my owne condition that thereby you may the better judge of me and my designes to this purpose I must tell you that ever since I had ability to draw and handle a Sword I have still vow'd my endevours to the service of your Family insomuch as when a Generall was appointed by Euarchus Father with a royall Armie after that unfortunate Defeat in Mesopotania to defend your Mothers Rights in the Principallitie of Iberia against Tygranes forces I not onely strongly urged the imployment from the State but accompanied the Souldiers in the Journey untill we were commanded away by the King which however hath so seasoned my thoughts with the concernments of your noble House that I cannot but continue my Soule working a just revenge in your hehalfe according to the many injuries and indignities you have received You must now give me leave to come neerer your interest for the present neither wonder at my intelligence since I doe confidently assure you that there is scarce a Court designe how private soever but I have knowledge of the resolution by reason of my kindred and intimation amongst the chiefest of Euarchus Councellers With this assurance you must know that not many dayes agoe there is arrived upon the Confines of Lydia Anaxia the old Queene of Syria who being for some time beaten at sea by stormes as at land by tempests procured by her owne restlesse nature that could not endure to sit quiet under the security of her Sonnes protection at last is come under the jurisdiction of Euarchus as I believe with an intention to raise as many troubles in this Kingdome as she hath for some yeares past in other places As I cannot deny her to be a Lady of excellent parts and in her youth of extraordinary beautie so by her birth she is of Corinthe the only Daughter to the Duke of that magnificent City which procured her such a liking by Orsames Father after the divorce of his former wife that with much passion he not onely made her Queene of Syria but at his death appointed her the sole Gardian both of his Sonne and Kingdome This Office truely she mannaged with discretion enough untill the young Kings competent yeares joyned with the ambition of some about his person compelled her of a sudden to leave her jurisdiction yet not without so much unwillingnesse and distaste that the lives of her principall Councellers were sacrificed by reason of the resistance and her selfe for a long space was confined to a Castle farre from the Court there to practise more obedience since her active spirit was deemed to be inconsistent with the true and necessary subjection befitting a Subject though still honoured as a Mother However in that place time and solitary conversations taught her so much patience or dissimulation that contrary to all mens expectations she bore this misfortune so much esteemed repugnant to her nature and constitution for some yeares with an extraordinary pacification insomuch as the King was induced by reason of these outward testimonies of her absolute conversion if not in regard of his owne filiall
many other of the chiefe Nobility of Syria having lost by the same oppression their hereditary Offices which they enjoyed from their deserving ancestors occasioned new troubles in the Kingdome for the Lords looking more upon Orestes probabilitie in being next heire to the Crown then Orsames government wanting Posterity to fortifie his Title of a sudden raised forces to joyn with their discontents not onely to put them anew in possession of their rights but to contend with the Fauourites greatnesse alledging for their defence both the Queen Anaxia's banishment and their own injuries by which endeavours I say in a short while after they led an Army into the field to try the fortune of a battell with Orsames power thinking it better to hazzard their heads in a doubtfull issue then to subjugate their honours to a certain ruine But in short being totally overcome in a bloody conflict Orestes in person was taken prisoner his Lieutenant Generall beheaded as a publique example and my selfe with many others were forced to flie to save our lives which not onely gave a full period to the designe but occasioned my retirement into this private habitation where I have for some yeeres lived though in a low condition since I prepare my thoughts against all the flattering hopes of return as long as Philostros sits at the sterne of Syria whose disposition I know to be implacable as the King his Masters affection unchangeable grounded upon these considerations that as long as his Favourite is safe and powerfull himselfe with security may freely enjoy his own pleasures and to that purpose hath lately granted Philostros a new guard to defend his person from such dangers as his over-great interest and absolute bold execution threaten especially since not onely the States of the Kingdome are highly offended against his pride but the common people become exceedingly burdened by his taxations besides Sorastros King of Aegypt unto whose protection the old Queen Anaxia is fled for refuge knowes it is his principall designe absolutely to ruine his mighty Monarch who therefore labours his destruction And this Sir said the Forrester is the unfortunate story of my banishment and others oppressions in the relation of which I feare me I have too much presumed upon your patience though I can the more easily excuse my presumption for that the Chase yet affords no other entertainment and with that rose up with an intention to finde out the dogs neither long had they traversed the copses ere their eares were advertised that their hounds hotly pursued again the almost lost Deere that continued the sport untill the night scarce gave them convenience to finde their way home Cassianus thus being every day more and more delighted with this pleasant conversation began by little and little to weane himselfe both from Court ambition or desire of glory and consequently thought not upon his solicitation for the restoration of his Countrey hardly harbouring in his quiet bosome any appetite of revenge of his fathers conceived injuries and lesse reflected upon either the turbulent perswasions of factious Demago as or the more gentle friendship of noble Eumene◠however now and then he could not choose but cast back his thoughts upon the remembrance of the Princes Cloria notwithstanding in such a dark way as lights are accustomed 〈◊〉 appeare in a thick mist that could not ere long but be absolutely distinguished when there was not desire enough in his intentions to give it nourishment Wherefore the better to continue his thought in these delights he sold some few of his smaller Jewels to furnish himselfe for a Forresters life and also cut away much of his beautifull haire to render his person more proper for the woods besides his felicity seemed to increase not onely by the solitary conversation with the noble huntsman but also by the more knowing instruction of the holy Priest which totally banisht out of his remembrance at last the whole representation of Clorias excellencies In prosecution of this intention one gentle morning not being at all threatned by a lowring sky Cassianus accompanied only by his own thoughts that seemed altogether innocent leading in his hand a dainty couple of Greyhounds to be provided for any chase that should accidentally present it selfe to his view issued out into the green and flourishing Forrest where long he had not entertained his expectation with the hopes of discovery of some beast that might breath his nimble dogs but he perceived a Knight armed lying upon the ground under the large protection of an old Oake whilst his Lance rested by the side of the tree But Cassianus not being certain whether death or sleepe gave him the posture thought it an act of necessary charity to be something inquisitive after the manner if not occasion of his lying there so that approaching at such a distance that the noise of his steps must needs be heard if he were alive the party suddenly lifted up his head with this Cassianus had a full view of his face and by that countenance quickly knew him to be his friend Eumenes whom he had left behind him in the Court of Lydia which caused him to start back with some violence as if ashamed of himselfe to be discovered in that habit or afraid that his companion should chide him for his late unkind escape without his privity however again encouraged by his disguise he made a stand untill Eumenes earnestly looking him in the face for a pretry space at last with a deepe figh brought forth these words Can Cassianus think that any dissimulation is of force to hinder the effects and power of perfect friendship which hath eyes beyond the sollidst obstacle no no Cassianus said he make a true confession of your fault that you may receive speedy satisfaction These words caused the Prince with trembling steps like a sorrowfull penitent to come neerer to his friend untill at last he seated himselfe by him with this language O Eumenes said he it was love onely tyrannicall love that deserves to beare the blame and not poore and faithfull Cassianus This expression seemed as strange to Eumenes cares as the alteration of his habit did to his eyes and therefore conjured him by all the remaining friendship left in his bosome to let him know more of his secrets which was a spell of sufficient force to charm him to all the discovery of the hidden mysterie concering his love to the faire Cloria and his sudden departure from Euarchus Court After that Eumenes had chid him for his omission towards himselfe as comforted him with some flattering hopes whereby to awake his determinations to action tending to honour since he knew otherwise it was impossible again to recover his lost Country of Iberia he told him in a forc'd smile that although he had poorly fled from his mistris yet she had shewed more courage and was come in person to seek him out in his most private habitation These words pu◠Cassianus to a new amazement
disposition that death would sooner have beene entertained in her wishes then the least decorum belonging to her bashfull principles could have been omitted in her resolutions In so much as all her faithfull lover Narcissus was to expect for the present was comfortable hopes of a future fruition which soone conducted the whole company to the Castle the place designed during Orsames stay not onely for the glories of his Court but for the recreation of all the other Princes who spent the Time for the most part in casting what honours they could upon the youthfull lovers whilst in the interim Philostros was imployed in receiving and entertaining Ambassadours that from all places came to congratulate his Masters victories But of the contrary Philos Philostros Nephew began by little and little to engender dark clouds of discontent in his unquiet bosome from whence proceeded at last thoughts of hatred and revenge not onely in regard of those sparcles of love which had flown from the bright rayes of Clorias beauty but also for that he found how all mens opinions were transported beyond measure to magnifie the gallant deserts of brave Narcissus which as he believed did not a little overshadow his own former successes in the warres These distempers I say did not alone make him all day abstaine from cheerfull company but in the night time raised for the most part such extravagant fancies in his ambitious and working braine that he remained in a manner continually tormented in his rest however he endeavoured all he could to keep the passions from the knowledge of vulgar eyes or at leastwise the causes of them but as love and envy are two properties too violent to be supprest in a heart inflamed with pride and prosperity when as their effects can hardly be protracted Philos was induced after he had in a sort taken counsell of his haughty thoughts and digested them in the generall to comply with his resolutions to fall upon wicked and ignoble designes seeing no way else could possibly bring about his purposes according to his own unruly appetites And that was ' violently to destroy the innocent and vertuous loves between Cloria and Narcissus which conveniency and opportunity was granted him by reason there remained certain messengers in the City of Memphis sent from the Senate of Lydia among other troops of Ambassadours imployed to complement Orsames prosperity To this effect he made choyce of one of them not being willing to communicate his secrets to more untill he could finde a probable assurance his project should heartily be enterteined as soone as this man repaired to his presence after some usuall speeches of kindnesse and flattery he conducted him by the hand into a private Cabinet of his owne scarce visited by any person whatsoever but himselfe being loath either to be discovered or interrupted where when he had made him sit downe by him with more then ordinary familiarity he uttered his mind unto him after this sort Sir said he as you cannot but know by that prosperous progresse which Evarchus your King hath already made in his Warres against the forces of your Senate at Sardis that not onely the least assistance but any small discountenance from forraigne Princes will utterly destroy your endeavours towards the compassing of your ends in bringing him to a conformity with your intentions though the world be yet scarce acquainted with what you desire so may you by evident demonstrations perceive how farre hither unto my Uncle Philostros hath complyed with your purposes as well in rending Orsames indifferent to your proceedings both against perswasion and his own inclination as in seeming to countenance those actions of yours which not onely appeares destructive to his Tenents but in a manner is against the very honour of his family for that Hyacinthia the Queen of Lydia is as you very well know a branch of the royall house of Syria so that by these comportments it is plaine what obligations you owne the great favourite who carries with him almost the power of all Asia however perhaps you may be perswaded he hath some other designe in his heart then barely your good against which I will not dispute yet by the way give me leave to tell you that notwithstanding states-men doe not use to favour any cause or party without their owne interest to be considered in the first place yet of the other side when both benefits may goe together you ought not either to examine the reason or be any way backward to entertaine the occasion but rather with violent wings of passion flye at the prosecution concerning which when I shall have understood your determination you may know more of my mind It was something long before the Ambassadour returned him any answer at all being as it were surprized betweene feare and doubt what himselfe ought to thinke or what the other meant to doe yet at last breaking through his seeming amazement he delivered these words with a humility answerable to the necessity as he thought his Masters had of his Uncles assistance not onely to hinder any supplyes to be sent from the State of Syria to Evarchus but to continue still the accustomed commerce and Trade between the two Nations without which it was unpossible for the Kingdome of Lydia to subsist My Lord said he As it is well knowne what most glorious effects the wisedome and industry of your great Uncle have produced towards the welfare and prosperity of Syria that in former times continued so many yeers imbroyled in civill Warres and domestick Troubles by reason of the power and inconstancy of the ambitious Nobility who scarce gave their Kings rest and quietnesse from care and vexation in regard of those hereditary commands they challenged by a lasting discent from their proud Ancestors not to be bridled by any indeavours and perswasion which now I say by the gods goodnesse you have happily supprest so cannot our present and well minded Senate but in a very high nature not only owne all those signall favours bestowed upon them by your most Illustrious family in the prosecution of our late transactions with our Prince whom we still desire notwithstanding to love and honour though he seeme to be an utter stranger to our honest intentions but humbly begge a continuance still of those benefits as well by your countenance in the Kingdome of Syria as for that you have so much interest amongst all the Princes of the lesser Asia who appeare onely to depend upon your fortunes and successe wherefore since you have beene pleased so farre to declare your selfe in the behalfe of our Countrey the secret reason of which I shall no more examine then what your wisedome shall be willing to reveale to direct those services you would have us undertake to performe I doe faithfully promise before the immortall gods not onely to make my Masters acquainted with advantage how great a happinesse they may pretend unto in the conserving intirely your affection to themselves but
give him entertainment And that I may prevent your demand which I make no doubt will seem necessary to your judgement be pleased to know that I am by birth of the Island of Cyprus and intending a pilgrimage to the Temple of Delphos am by chance fallen into your company The Priest seeing himselfe saluted by a young man though in his own habit of such an excellent beauty and so perfect a shape presently not only rose up from his seat to give him the more respectfull welcome but told him for his lodging the night to come since the time of the day perhaps might prevent him of a better conveniency he should hold it an extraordinary honour that his own poor habitation might performe the service and the rather as he said for that their professions seemed to agree by the outward resemblance of the Robes Narcissus was not much displeased with the offer as well because he found himselfe something weary by reason of those extravagant and uncertaine journeyes he had made as also that he might hope by this opportunity to get further information concerning his own resolutions that yet he had not fully determined Wherefore after he had returned the Father a civill thankes for his favour with an intimation he was willing to accept of his charitable kindnesse they both sate downe together upon the bankside to behold the finishing of those rurall delights that passionately seemed to imploy the Countrey people which gave occasion to Narcissus to demand the reason of that extraordinary mirth that possessed the thoughts of the whole company The Priest after he had a little similed to thinke of the strangers apprehension told him since he perceived his curiosity went so farre as to be satisfied in those petty affaires he would take the paines to let him know the originall that produced the effects which as he said was the more proper for his entertainment since the occasion at the present detained almost all Asia both in expectation and wonder however he feared his story might be too tedious for his patience But Narcissus seeming rather passionate at the satissaction then distasted at the offer the Priest retired something further into the woods to be more out of the noyse of the people where after he had setled the strangers expectation to a silent attentivenesse he began this discourse Sir said he you must be pleased to know that our King Euarchus grandmother called Minerva by whose right he came to weare all those Crownes he was once possessor of and might still have enjoyed in a prosperous measure if his fortunes had been equall to his goodnesse or his Subjects loyaltie answerable to his own eminent worth was a Princesse of such excellent vertues that it had been a controversie between art and nature whether had more bountifully contributed to the adorning of her royall person however she only raigned in Mysia a Country not only barren in production of the fruits of the earth but luxurious in the unfaithfulnesse of the people though her birth justly claimed the inheritance of this rich Kingdome of Lydia after our Queen then raigning here I say this admirable Princesse had a base brother also named Leonatus who wanted not ambition enough to desire the Crowne of Mysia though he were not furnished with sufficient vertues to merit such a dignity and to this purpose left nothing unattempted that might either advance his own esteem or deprave his sisters actions and to that end insinnated himself by all meanes possible not only into the good opinion of the Lords but much more into the favour of the common people in which interim the young Princesse being furnished with youth and beauty was perswaded by the chiefe nobility to thinke of a noble husband that might accompany her in her conversation and give the Kingdome a hope of posterity two essentiall parts as they pretended of her own happinesse in prosecution of this desire there was presented unto her view a handsome Lord of this our Countrey of Lydia in conclusion the nuptials were quickly solemnized to the appearing content of both parties and the rather for that the then Queene of Lydia was well satisfied with the choyce not doubting to maintaine by this meanes a continual and strong interest in the Kingdome of Mysia since she had married to the Princesse one of her own Subjects But now Leonatus began to play his part for finding this conjunction proved a bar to his pretention for succession he thought it his bestway to establish himselfe notwithstanding a certain power in the government and to that purpose strived by all meanes his malicious will could instruct to gaine the good opinion of the young King whereby to set him at difference with the Queen who began to be a little distasted to see his wife take upon her so absolute authority he only bearing the name of a Prince which at last grew to such a height by the underhand provocation of wicked Leonatus that one day when the Queene being great with child was retired into her private chamber to conferre with a certain Secretary of State most imployed in the Kingdomes affaires her husband of a sudden rusht into her presence with his sword drawne and there before her amazed eyes slaughtered her poore servant However this was an act of some horrour to the great bellied Queen and so consequently might be thought sufficient motives of her lasting indignation to see her selfe and authority so affronted by one she had lately raised from being a Subject to be her husband yet religion and good nature proved so powerfull in her noble disposition that upon the Kings sorrow and submission she was content both to forgive the injury and forget the dishonour by a perfect reconciliation But Leonatus not weary yet of his own wickednesse though despairing of his further ability to retain his interest with the young King since the Queen as he thought had so absolutely circumvented him in that project of a sudden stroake into friendship with certaine factious Priests that had newly brought in a religion into Mysia that taught this dangerous Doctrine That Princes deserved no longer to governe then whilst they contented the People Which opinion you may very well imagine took feelingly with the multitude in so much as in a short time the Queen had imployment enough to defend her person from reproaches as her Kingdome from civill warre This exceedingly tormented her thoughts untill the birth of her young sonne againe revived her spirits however Leonatus still prosecuting his horrid designes to supplant the Queen in her just right whereby to bring the government of the Kingdome under his own jurisdiction one night secretly caused not only the young King to be cruelly murthered in his bed in execution of his revenge because he had quitted his party but also laid the bloudy slaughter by way of private aspersions upon the innocent and religious Queen the more to bring her in hatred with the common people who seemed
the multitude of my obligations to your endeavours since they are not only generally knowne to all the world but divers times have been acknowledged by my expressions in particular so my businesse at present is to make you acquainted anew both with my thoughts and intentions concerning some late passages I came into Lydia as you know by your procurement to prosecute my affections to the faire Princesse the Kings daughter when she was taken prisoner by the Senates Fleet in Pergame T is true my courtships in that nature were something retarded if not absulutely laid aside untill the present by reason of a certaine correspondency between her and Narcissus the Duke of Cyprus sonne This gives me occasion to tell you that however I found her then backward to my wishes either proceeding from her flattering fancy that Narcissus was living or conceiving her own condition was much more secure in the Senates custody then at present under the jurisdiction of the Army and Souldiers or rather I may say being violently prest to some inconveniences by reason of the extraordinary greatnesse both in command and authority of Farezius who as it should seem pretends something violently to her love and affection Now she is become more tractable and willing to entertaine those protestations of mine whose effect I have ever consecrated to her service since I had the honour to be entertained by the good will of the Lydian people I need not trouble you much with the reperitions of your own received injuries by reason of the generalls greatnesse notwithstanding all those gallant services which you have performed in the defence and safety of the Commonwealth neither shall I mention the consequences thereby that threaten a kind of destruction to all the Nobility of the Kingdome for that I know your judgement and their apprehensions cannot possibly be wanting in this particular only I must needs tell you that the Princesse Cloria her selfe extreamly wonders how it is possible you should dispence so much with your honour and reputation as to beare those indignities that have cast you from your authority and command with such an extreame quiet pacification Are the Nobility said he of Lydia so much degenerated in their soules and spirits as easily in this manner to quit their honour to the lowest conditions the people shall direct what is become of the magnanimity of mind once so frequently raigning in the breasts of the better fort of men in this Kingdome that is now lost in a chaos of confusion with the rabble or common multitude doth a little sensuall feare bury all considerations of valour and gallantry in this Nation people being only given to eate and drinke without affectation of greatnesse or apprehension of disgrace If it be so my Lord in the generall my words will be as much in vaine to be uttered as your life in effect will be miserable in the future but I have more confidence in the courage of Dimogoras both for his own sake and my good This being said Cassianus rested silent to heare what reply Dimogoras would make Dimogoras I may say continued altogether mute for something a long space his eyes sparkling out in the interim neverthelesse a certaine kinde of seeming desire of revenge though his body overgrowne with flesh and humour appeared not to be much inclinable to action but being wakened to some determinate answer by the importunities of Cassianus who belike himselfe had been strongly urged by Roxana to be speedy in the execution of her designe at last he blutterd out this reply My Lord said he I must confesse that both my selfe and the rest of the Nobility of Lydia according to the Princesses apprehension whose Father however I love â—â—ot nor ever shall have wound their dignities and honours into such a labyrinth of inconvenience by complying so much with the violent and confused humours of the common people that we have in a manner suffered Farezius with the rest of his faction to overthrow already the most essentiall part of our hereditary honours and priviledges and by that meanes are become lesse powerfull to act any thing with advantage either to our selves or others neverthelesse perhaps I may yet set on foot something of faction amongst the Souldiers if they have not wholly lost the remembrance that I once commanded amongst them that may perchance produce effects tending to those purposes you have designed with these words he entered into some rage and passlon as it were out of the very apprehension of his own losse of reputation in being so disgracefully turned out of his command presently after this he tooke his leave of Cassianus as pretending he would goe to the Senate to try his friends constitutions conceming those designes he intended Cassianus was glad he had got thus much from his resolutions for notwithstanding he did not at all doubt his affection yet he might have some cause to suspect his activity so that he determined himselfe also to use the best interest he had both with the Lords and the rest of the Senators whom he knew to be of a contrary faction to Farezius withall he had upon all occasions free admittance into the Princesses lodgings according to her own allowance and Roxana's directions which as it may be thought sufficiently contented his apprehension It was not long before Dimogoras and the rest of the Nobility raised considerable factions and mutinies in the Army amongst the Souldiers they also being enflamed by their want of pay and not performance of other conditions promised them upon their first taking up Armes against the King being since renewed againe to their hopes when he was delivered out of prison by some Troopes sent to that purpose which suddenly called away both Farezius and Hercrombrotus to the appeasing of the stirs Though Farezius did with faire language and promising words in a short speech seemingly pacifie most of their discontents yet Hercombrotus who was of a more violent and active nature finding many of the Troopes continue still their mutinies and insolencies against their command suddenly flew in amongst those Souldiers with fury in his looks and terrour in his countenance where presently seizing upon two or three of those that appeared most refractory and disobedient he delivered them instantly over to officers to be executed and punished After this he not only offered a free pardon to the rest but also promised them a reall performance of all their just expectations provided that from thence forward they would continue obedient and constant in their affections After this when both Farezius and Hercrombrotus were on their way againe towards the City of Sardis an officer of the Army began this discourse to his Generall Sir said he by this late mutiny you may see the danger not only of Dimogoras interest amongst the Souldiers but the power he hath with those of the better sort of Senators from which originall I suppose hath proceeded in part these now appeased troubles in the Campe of the
other side can you possibly conceive that after so many testimonies of disaffection from Euarchus the King he will be ever brought to be either entire for the Souldiers advantage or be weaned from that affection without reason he hath alwayes expressed to be in his nature for his false and ungratefull country men the Myssians in like manner with what confidence can we any more trust the actions of the wealthy City of Sardis when as they did not only refuse to open their purses to our occasions in our greatest necessities but denyed us enterance into their Towne by the perswasion of those Senators that we have now sent to banishment These things being granted to be true the next consideration ought to be had of the remedy for future prevention In the first place to compasse our designes and procure our security we must endeavour to joyne with a prevailing party in the Senate or at leastwise make them so by the Souldiers power who may passe an absolute decree to have no more Treaties with the King in regard that those hopes and feares doe not a little distract the whole Kingdome from relying absolutely upon our commands and jurisdiction as you know most necessary for the peoples safety in the next place we are totally to suppresse the interest of Dimogoras for the present and the Nobillities priviledges in the future which as I must tell you keep up such an opinion amongst all sorts of people concerning their greatnesse and stabillity that it will be a very difficult matter to act any thing either for the Kingdomes good or the Armies advantage Lastly we must not only drive the Myssian Commissioners out of our Country who only wait occasions to suck up all the benefit to themselves and Nation which the Lydians at any time shall either fight or toyle for but in some terrifying way or other procure money from the Citizens of Sardis whereby to give just and fitting content to those faithfull and loving Souldiers that have fought so many bloudy Battels and obtained multitudes of signall victories in their Countreyes behalfe against their numerous enemies Though Farezius by reason of his melancholly and silent nature made no great reply at the present to those reasons that had been delivered yet it was not many dayes after their arrivall at Sardis before an absolute decree passed the Senate that not only there should be no more Treaties or addresses made unto Euarchus concerning any agreement either in the generall or particular but it was also ordered that it should be esteemed a crime of a most high consequence for any person so much as to make tender of any proposition to that effect to the rest of the Senators there assembled which resolution was quickly published over the whole Kingdome of Lydia by a formall proclamation Of the other side Dimogoras finding both his interest in the Army and his credit with the Senators did not any way suit with his ambition and expectation upon the very apprehension as t was thought of these apparant disgraces in a very few dayes ended his life in this world however there were some that not only gave it out but believed that he had been poysoned to prevent a farther trouble and danger to the Kingdome This also gave occasion to Prince Cassianus within a very short time after to quit personally the Country of Lydia as perhaps supposing now his chiefe friend and Favourite Dimogoras was gone and the rest of the Lords not being in a capacity to support his honour and designes against the Souldiers in the Princesse Clorias behalfe it was to little purpose any longer to prosecute his pretended love Neverthelesse the Nobillity with many other of the Senators of the same faction prepared themselves to give the body of Dimogoras most stately and glorious Funerals To this intent when the day came all attired in black they met the corps with a world of ceremony and so conducted it through a multitude of people to the place ordained for that purpose where being placed according to the custome of other Generalls the flames quickly consumed the pyles whilst that which was immortall had a farther account to give concerning his actions and thoughts during his life When the Princesse Cloria understood of this strange and unexpected law not only pronounced in the Senate but published all over the Kingdome she began now to repent her of her too much beliefe given to the Kings enemies notwithstanding any perswasion whatsoever she had entertained in her thoughts and consequently had more cause a great deale to doubt her owne security having no other defence left her but what she could gather from the faithfull and wise Councells of her intrusted governesse Roxana which was the occasion that one day having for the most part spent her whole store of passion she used this kinde of despairing discourse unto her Truly Roxana said she as there might be noted at first a strong jealousie amongst the Souldiers by the strict gard set upon the Kings person so this last action makes me feare that there is some prevailing designe as well against our liberties as his dominion which we shall be scarce able to prevent by any industry or assistance for as I cannot rely much upon the Lords power by reason they have altogether lost their authority by severing their interests at the first from their Princes prerogative nothing but to comply with their own ambition and spleen so is there as little to be hoped for from the endeavours of this great and rich City of Sardis considering their late carriages when Farezius with his triumphant Army not only entered their Walls without resistance but were content to receive his absolute commands without the least dispute belonging to their long enjoyed priviledges never as yet questioned by any former Prince or power these representations being knowne and granted to be the effects of the late transactions what probabilities remaine for the recovery of my fathers rights though it should be opinionated that we our selves were out of all danger personally since the Kings party appears not to have either abillity or will to doe him good And Lydia being strongly united under the present jurisdiction what forraigne industry and endeavour soever can worke any considerable effects to his advantage considering the many brave Vessels and shipping that are alwayes ready for defence and resistance upon the Carian and Ionian shoares to oppose either sudden invasion or continued hostility When Roxana had for some time rested silent with teares in her eyes she returned her this answer Lady said she you must then give me leave to blame your superstitious modesty as I may call it in not suffering your Uncle Orsames to have performed those ceremonies belonging to your Nuptials at Memphis which perhaps in part if not totally would have prevented these inconveniences Indeed Governesse replyed the Princesse although perhaps you esteeme those decorâ—ms of fitting duty which I shall be ever ready to render
of Sardis where confusion we supposed would secure us untill we could finde a convenient transportation for Syria however our wearinesse want of food compelled me the next day about noone to take up my habitation in a small Cottage under a hill side in whose dwelling there only remained an old man with his wife having between them as the fruits of their long marriage one daughter which by the way must occasion a pretty short story We no sooner entred the house but being provoked by a sufficient appetite we called for such provision as they had promising a large payment and they as willingly condiscended to our desires in which office the maid seemed most diligent not only in regard of her own good huswifery but being exceedingly delighted as might be gathered by her smiling countenance at my strange attire in the house there was but two beds the one where the old people lay and the other for the young wench so that I was to take up my rest necessarily in the Girles bed where I must confesse I slept to my content whilst my attendant made use of a bundle of straw in an out house for his lodging but in the morning I might feele not only one in bed with me but the party to have her hand over my breast whom by more consideration I found to be the young damosell of the Cottage This I must confesse put me to some confusion untill by a strict examination of her intention I perceived it was only her own innocent curiosity because she thought me a fine young gentlewoman At which relation the Princesse could not chuse but laugh the rather for that Ascanius did with something a constrained earnestnesse strive to defend the wenches chastity as if he had been jealous also of his own honour yet neverthelesse he was sorced to confesse the Maid did much question him because he had no greater breasts But having sufficiently cleared his repatation and jested out the rest he againe continued his discourse Although said he I had sufficiently satisfied her in all questions concerning my travels yet I had much adoe to perswade her to rise from me so much was she in love with my company neither would she condiscend to my request untill she had againe imbraced me bestowing three or foure of her kisses upon my lips This being performed and having yawned a pretty space as a testimony of her youthfull lazinesse she suddenly started out of the bed in her smock that was not of the finest cloath where she remained still discoursing with me untill her father and mother lying in the lower roome gave her a call or two to hasten her speed yet I had opportunity enough to enquire of her not only the neerest way to Sardis but of the conveniency of the next Town where I meant to provide my selfe of some change of apparrell since I durst not trust those which brought me from the Castle In conclâ—sion after I had imployed my servant a few dayes neare the place to buy other Robes and bestowed my old apparrell upon the wench for a gratuity of her kindnesse in affording me so freely her company the first night I not permitting the second I tooke my leave lovingly of the old people who truly had entertained me with an honest Countrey affection so that presently according to our direction we repaired to the Bankes of the River Pactolus where we quickly hired a Barke that without any suspition at all brought us to Sardis which Towne sheltred us without discovery untill we found another conveniency to convey us to your Castle where being arrived we are confident you will not betray your guests but rather advise us by your Counsell how to prosecute further my affaires since it is to be thought they will make a sudden and diligent inquiry after my escape At which words with a pretty smile the Princesse Cloria cast her eyes upon her Governesse as if she expected from her experience the best direction for them both Roxana when she had drawne the lookes of Ascanius upon her in a curious manner since he had not been formerly acquainted with her conversation and also mused according to her custome for some short space she gave this advice Truly said she as it is most necessary in the prime place that my Lord Ascanius provide for his own security since it is impossible but some speedy search will be after his escape the Senate not being willing to part with so many of the Royal family out of their own jurisdiction So Madam be pleased to thinke it convenient that the Queen now remaining in Syria may presently be made acquainted with this fortunate delivery of my Lord your brother from his imprisonment by some trusly messenger to be dispatched from our Counsels which party may be as I conceive this faithfull servant the companion of his Travels whom he hath now brought along with him into this Castle who cannot well remaine here in that he will rather prove a Subject of suspition then an officer of use since the daily visits of this place by the Nobility and other people of quality must of necessity bring his name in question And for this beautifull runaway your brother since he so well becomes a Maids attire and hath so bravely given testimony of his own modesty I see no reason why he may not still live amongst us without danger to his own person or prejudice to our honours being entertained as your attendant in your chamber untill either commands out of Syria call him away or you your selfe be removed from the jurisdiction of this Kingdome by your happy marriage with my Lord Narcissus at which words the Princesse became as red as Scarlet not dreaming her young brother should so abruptly have been made acquainted with her secret ingagement But the fault was already committed and Roxana had no time to aske forgivenesse wherefore something confounded by her errour as well as she could she went on with her continued discourse However said she that we may not remaine altogether ignorant of the proceedings of the Senate I shall industriously endeavour to instruct our little dwarfe who wants no wit to make such inquiry abroad as may be most convenient for our affaires for whose truth and honesty I will undertake with the engagement of my reputation This may give you a full liberty to enjoy with freedome each others company a benefit that neither of you will repine at I am sure since the fates have been hitherto penurious to both your conversations with these words she rested silent in a kinde of a grave smile expecting the young couple should signe their consents by some demonstration After that Roxana had fully ended her discourse the lovely paire looked upon each other with such a sweet chearefulnesse as if their own passions had no desire to enquire further after the depth of her reasons since their hearts abundantly approved of the consequence of her designe which was that they
intricate Labyrinth or Wilderness of flourishing Trees that shaded it sufficiently from the eyes of people in the middest thereof there was a Fountaine upon the borders in which was contrived many sorts of Chaces by dogges and huntsmen who by the turning of severall artificiall Cocks seemed not onely to move in prosecution of their prey but the hounds with open mouthes barked and made a noyse The prettinesse of the conceit for a long space gave young Ascanius sufficient content when they were weary of beholding of this invention they went to the viewing of other rarities There they might behold Andromeda with the Sea Monster comming out of the water to devoure her whilst her sorrowfull parents stood upon the bordering shore to behold that wofull and lamenable Tragedy occasioned as they thought by the too much severity and cruelty of the gods untill Perseus the sonne of Dane that was courted in a shower of Gold by Jupiter descended from the skies upon his flying horse and seemed to rescue the distressed Lady There were also to be seen in that place divers Artificers working in their Trades onely by the force and current of the water in like manner others playing upon severall kinds of Instruments both delightfull to the eare and pleasing to the apprehension Besides Birds of all species made of Glasse and other materials that seemed to chirpe in a naturall way though onely so contrived by the meere invention of men to give the greater satisfaction to luxurious sense After they had as it were glutted their contemplation with these delightfull vanities the Princesse Cloria being better skil'd then her brother in the use of such devices suddenly turned one of the pipâ—s which quickly over-spread young Ascanius with a large Canopy of Water that resembled a plentifull though sweet shower from the heavens in so much as he knew not at the instant how to winde himselfe out of the inconveniency untill he was forced to entreat his sisters favour for his redemption neither did she altogether afford him that grace since he became a little wet to purchase a convenient experience against another time But Roxana as if she thought her Mistresse had used something too much severity towards her young brother began a needlesse apologie for the action when she might have known Ascanius could not be displeased at any thing his sister did When they had as it were dwelt long enough upon these watry pleasures they again returned into their own lodgings in which place the metamorposed mayd was most carefull to observe those decorums that belonged to her office and attendance least the contrary might have occasioned the endangering of his discovery where they remained I may say entertaining themselves sometimes with hopes and sometimes with feares untill the dwarfes returne brought them more certaine intelligence of many passages both from Sardis and other Regions however because they desired to understand his information in the most methodicall way in regard the circumstances as they apprehended would give a great light to the intentions on foot they wisht him to tell his story and adventures in order which he performed in this manner After said he I parted from this Castle according to your command I went to the very doore of the Senate-house the best place as I thought for intelligence where finding all those that stood without in a most confused distraction both in their words and looks it was not long before many of the chiefe Senators of a sudden came out of the room when presently they went with a great deale of haste towards another chamber where I understood by the discourses of the multitude they were designed to meet some of the Lords about a conference concerning the settlements of the disorders of the Kingdome I being both bold and little and so consequently as I thought not much to be suspected in the confused crowd thrust in along with them where placing my selfe in a nook of the chamber under a hanging it was my chance to heare these severall discourses from them The first sort of Senators that spake thought it convenient if not altogether necessary again to settle the King in his ancient dignity not onely in regard of the extraordinary cries of the common people to that purpose but also for that there were so many severall factions within themselves in the Senate not probable to be reconciled with any advantage to the Nation Others notwithstanding were of a contrary opinion alleadging that it were better to hazard the ruine of the whole Countrey in a generall confusion then to come any more under the jurisdiction of that Tyrannicall government as they said they had with so much bloud already endeavoured to destroy A third number of that assembly seemed in some sort to be willing to restore againe Euarchus to his Crowne in full lustre but they doubted least his unrelenting spleen might put him on to call the Sâ—nate to a strict account for their past actions and severity used both against his authority and person wherefore wisht rather to have some of his posterity Crowned in his place whom for such a benefit as they believed would easily be perswaded to forgive and forget his fathers injuries This proposition a long time entertained their fancies untill they considered that not only Prince Arethusius was in the Kingdome of Syria prosecuting the Queen his Mothers designes and my Lord Ascanius his brother had lately by flight procured his owne liberty without their consents that absolutely beate back any more discourse upon that subject however they thought it convenient if not extreamely necessary for the present to give what satisfaction they could to the discontented people who belike attended in great numbers about the City of Sardis to that purpose yet it was considered with all that if they should endeavour altogether to please the multitude without having their Swords ready drawne in their hands whereby to be able to chastize them if they should prove too unreasonable in their demands they must expect dangerous and insolent affronts instead of quietnesse and obedience to their commands In so much as they thought it convenient in the interim that they entertained the peoples expectations with good words and faire promises to send privately to Farezius wishing him to be ready to march with his Souldiers to keep the multitude in due obedience to the Senates authority if they should continue these extravagant prosecutions of their designes which in effect being fully resolved upon by them all they quickly broake up the Assembly So that when they were in this manner dispersed and I had freed my selfe undiscovered from their companies I thought it my duty to gaine what other intelligence I could amongst the common people since I conceived much consisted in their constant and brave resolutions to which purpose they seemed in some sort to have assembled themselves with an intention to contend against the present government by some violent manner of prosecution though for the better