resolution so as taking me by the haire and dragging me into the Wood among the bushes whose cursenesse seconded their masters furie tearing my skinne and scratching my bare leggs to a tree he there tied me but not long â— continued there for he going a little from me returned with a Pastors coat which he tooke from a poore man that was in that Wood seeking a lost Beast with this he disguised me and also hauing taken the mans Horse tooke me behinde him putting a gag in my mouth for feare I should speake for helpe posting vnused waies through the desart to the Sea-side where he got a boate and so passed ouer to this place where euer since we haue remained for my part with daily whippings and such other tortures as pinching with irons and many more so terrible as for your sake seeing your griefe my deerest Lord I wil omit declaring only this I must speak of belonging to my story Once euery day hee brought mee to this pillar where you found me and in the like manner bound me then whipt me after washing the stripes and blisters with salt waterâ— but this had been the last had not you thus happily arriu'd for he determined as he said after my tormenting had been past in stead of washing me with the sea-water to cast me into her and so make a finall end of his tormenting and of my torments To this end he likewise went yesterday to the Towne and bought this armour arming himselfe to the intent that after his purpose was accomplisht he might take his iourney which way best he pleased Thus my Lords haue you heard the afflicted life of poore Limena in whom these tortures wrought no otherwise then to strengthen her loue and faith to withstand them for could any other thought haue entred into my hart that would haue been a greater affliction to my soule then the curst stroakes were to my body subiect only to his vnnaturalnesse but now by your royall hand redeemed from misery to enioy the only blessing my heart can or euer could aspire to wish and here haue you now your faithfull Loue Limena Perissus embraced her with that loue his best loue could expresse and then speaking to the Morean Prince he said The thanks most braue Prince for this happinesse belongs vnto you which is so much as my life shall euer bee ingaged to pay the due vnto you and my sword imployed to the best of my power to serue you vowing that when I and the same I professe for my deerest here proue vngratefull wee will no more see light nay let vs be as wretched as euer we were if that sinne know vs. Parselius with much affection requited their protestations making the like for himselfe in his loue to them so for that night they went to rest The next day taking their iourney to Naples to prouide such things as were necessary for them thence went they into Sicily hauing a braue ship which the Gouernor of that Towne knowing Parselius prouided for them going himselfe and many more braue Gentlemen to conduct them ouer whither being come they found the Country in great trouble the King being dead and an Vsurper in his stead but quickly were those stirres appeased by the presence ef Perissus well helped by the Company which came out of Naples with him but most and indeed chiefly compassed by the valour of Parselius who with his owne hands in a battell which was fought betweene the vsurper and an army that came to aide Perissus as soone as his arriuall was published kild the false king and his two sons being counted the valiantest men of all Sicily and in stature were little lesse then Giants This being finished Perissus was crowned King and soone after was the last promise performed in the marriage which was solemnely and with great state accomplished Then did Parselius take his leaue of the King and Queene returning to Naples and so to the Court of that King where with all ioy and welcome hee was receiued the triumphs and feastes making testimonie of it Yet was his sorrow such for Vrania as all those sports were rather troublesome then pleasing vnto him Some few daies after the triumphes began the Squire of Amphilanthus found him there to whom he deliuer'd his Message with much ioy did the old King receiue the Squire bringing him such ioyfull newes of his Sonnes being well though much more welcome had he beene if he could haue told any thing of his returne thither Parselius demanded of the Squire how hee found him out Why Sir said hee My Master going away from Morea with Antissius and that company sent mee by Sea to seeke you in this Countrey by chance our Shipp sprung a leake so as we were forced to put in againe to mend her after we had beene a day at Sea before she was throughly mended came a braue Gentleman called Ollorandus younger Sonne to the King of Bohemia who seeking my Lord to whom he hath vow'd his Loue and seruice knowing mee to bee his seruant enquired of me for him I told him where at that time he might find him Hauing done this I tooke the boldnesse to aske him if hee heard any newes of you and withall the cause why I asked he answered me that hauing past Italie in search of Amphilanthus and hearing he was cast vpon Morea by Shipwrack hee followed after him till hee came to the Court which at that time was in Arcadia there hee heard that he had beene there but was againe gone into Italy to seeke you and that hee would with you soone returne againe into that Countrey to goe into Albania wherfore he desiring to see something in those parts passed vp and downe sometime to Morea where in Elis he met with you hauing as hee merrily tolde me passed a pretty aduenture with a Lady and her Knights From thence hee came to that part of the Kingdome where I was put in by that chaunce meaning there to ship once more for Italy but I telling him of my masters iourney to Romania he with all speed followed him there to deserue his friendship by his seruice and thus came I to be so fortunate to meet you Then did Parselius acquaint the King with his entent which was to follow Amphilanthus so taking his leaue he went with as much fortunate speede as might be to oâ—ertake his friend promising the old King to hasten his Sonnes comming withall letting him know the hope he had of Vrania's being his Daughter which hope was as comfortable to him almost as if hee had already enioyd her Parselius in his iourney trauelled with great paine of mind the like sufferd Pamphilia who all this while continued her Loue and life in Morea who by loues force was it seemed transform'd into the same passion her loue-sicke Companion still accompanying her till one morning her deare though vnquiet affections calling her to attend them made her see day sooner then otherwise she had by many houres
from him but soone was that well reuenged if her life were answerable for such a mischance yet did they keepe her aliue till the Castle was setled one drop of his bloud being more worth then millions of liues of better people Then she was terribly tortured and yet kept long in paine for her more lasting punishment and lastly burn'd By this were most dead or yeelded all being safe Amphilanthus was carried into a rich chamber where his wound was searched and drest by the three Sisters who were now come into the Castle brought in by Steriamus of purpose to dresse the Prince Ollorandus being so perplext that it was his vnlucky fate to haue the weapon that hurt his friend as he was truly sorrow it selfe euen being ready with it to haue parted his owne life from him had not Amphilanthus coniured him by all loues and friendships and protestations to forbeare Quickly did the Sisters assure them of his safety which as a blessing came vnto them After he was dress'd he sent his friend to fetch the Prisoners all before him which was done where were of Knights and Ladies such store as if in health and strength there had beene a fit number for the furnishing a braue Court but as they were it was a sight of commiseration so pale and weake they were with want of foode and their bodies so abused with tortures as they appeard like people of purpose made to shew miserie in extremitie Among them was Dolorindus whose owne minde and this vsage had brought him into a fit estate to answer his name Amphilanthus knowing him first tooke care of him calling for his owne apparell which was brought and causing delicaâ—e foode to bee brought him cheerished him so as by that time that he was able to trauell for his wound Dolorindus was likewise fit to accompany him which in few daies came to passe by the diligence and care of the three Sisters who were next in true succession by the Mothers side to the ancient Lords of Siâ— their Father came vnto them with the Squires to the Princes and those of the Ship Then prepared they for their departure Amphilanthus bestowing the Castle and the Island vpon the Sisters his kinde Chyrurgions promising to send his faithfull and best esteemed seruant Berlandis to marry the eldest as soone as he could finde him and on the other two Steriamus and Ollorandus bestowed their Squires giuing them the Order of Knighthood who well deseru'd it prouing worthy of such Masters making the world see that such example as dayly their Master shewd them must needs make braue men leauing that place in quiet hauing taken the oathes of all the Inhabitants in Berlandis name and his wiues Then tooke they Ship againe for Morea but passing along the AEgaean Sea they entred many Islands seeking and finding aduentures but in one being though little yet plentifull as a greater delicately compassed with Snow white Rocks yet mixt with small fine trees whose greenenesse gaue them hope to see but pleasure gaue them heart to goe into it when they found it within such a place as a Louer would haue chosen to haue passed his time in and this did vrge the foure Knights all amorous and yet in seuerall kindes to expresse their passions seuerall waies Amphilanthus left the other three taking the direct way to the heart of the Land as euer ayming at that place hauing the best and most power continually ouer that part Steriamus tooke on the right hand Ollorandus to the left but Dolorindus who neuer knew difference of fortune still hauing liued in a constant state of her displeasure went away betweene them all his thoughts as euer in action better being able to vtter forth his passions being alone which in this kinde he did when he came into a dainty fine wood of straight high Oakes and young Beeches mingled with a fewe Ashes and Chestnut trees in the midâ—st of the Wood was a Mount cast vp by nature and more delicate then Art could haue framâ—d it though the cunningest had vndertaken it in the mid'st of it was a round Table of stone and round about it Seats made of the same Stone which was blacke Marble some Letters or rather characters he found ingrauen in the vpper part of those seates and on many of the Trees which curiously incompassed it many Ciphers althougth but one for meaning though in number many Louers had done these as he thought louers made him remember he was one and that oft he had caru'd his Mistrisses name vpon Bay trees to shew her conquest which shee had requited cutting his name in Willowes to demonstrate his fate This afflicted him and moued so much in him as hee could not but frame some verses in his imagination which after were giuen to Amphilanthus and his other companions the lines were these place and fortune procuring them SWeete solitarines ioy to those hearts That feele the pleasure of Loues sporting darts Grudge me not though a vassall to his might And a poore subiect to curst changings spite To rest in you or rather restlesse moue In your contents to sorrow for my loue A Loue which liuing liues as dead to me As holy reliques which in boxes be Plac'd in a chest that ouerthrowes my ioy Shut vp in change which more then plagues destroy These O you solitarinesse may both endure And be a Chirurgion to find me a cure For this curst corsiue eating my best rest Memorie sad memorie in you once blest But now most miserable with the weight Of that which onely shewes Loues strange deceit You are that cruell wound that inly weares My soule my body wasting into teares You keepe mine eies vnclos'd my heart vntide From letting thought of my best dayes to slide Froward Remembrance what delight haue you Ouer my miseries to take a view Why doe you tell me in this same-like place Of Earths best blessing I haue seene the face But maskd from me I onely see the shade Of that which once my brightest Sun-shine made You tell me that I then was blest in Loue When equall passions did together moue O why is this alone to bring distresse Without a salue but torments in excesse A cruell Steward you are to inrole My once-good dayes of purpose to controle With eyes of sorrow yet leaue me vndone By too much confidence my thrid so sponne â—n conscience moue not such a spleene of scorne Vnder whose swellings my despaires are borne Are you offended choicest Memorie That of your perfect gift I did glorie If I did so offend yet pardon me Since 't was to set â—orth your true exclencie Sufficiently I thus doe punish'd stand While all that curst is you bring to my hand Or is it that I no way worthy was In so rich treasure my few dayes to passe Alas if so and such a treasure giuen Must I for this to Hell-like paine bee driuen Fully torment me now and what is best Together take and mem'ry with the
passionately in loue with her as Antonarus saw if he accepted her loue he must with that kill his friend rather then to doe so foule an act hee would seeme cruel and wrong and harme himselfe sooner then hurt him yet oft hath he told me that he hath from his soule wish'd my brother had neuer discouer'd his affection to him for then ignorantly hee might haue made himselfe happy in her whose happinesse onely consisted in him and yet was denied bâ—cause he loued his companion O friendship excellent vertue to be embraced and cheerished yet herein would such friendship had not beene Still did Terichillus tell Antonarus how he lou'd and how he saw she slighted him and yet cri'd he she loues would I were the Dogge she so kindly treats and playes with all or that little bird which she still kisses and carries in her breast or any thing saue wretched me my selfe so loath'd and hated by her Then did he comfort him telling him patience and constancy might solicit for him and his still presenting himselfe in her eyes might win if any thing could preuaile by loue At last my brother plainely discerned the loue she bare to Antonarus then he grew furious and for all these former passages mistrusted this firme friend hee finding it and no way to kill this Cancor tooke leaue of the Court and my brother at his parting telling him that whatsoeuer he imagined of him he should finde him true to him To the Lady he went not but priuately in the morning he stole away and pass'd many Countries with much honor but now comes the wofull part of this Story She seeing him gone and Terichillus stay quickly guess'd the matter then grew rage in her and whereas before she would vse him ciuilly for Antonarus sake now she plainely shew'd the hate she bare him who she beleeud to be the cause of his going that beliefe told her she must not suffer such an iniury that iniury being aboue all where loue was by it barr'd his sight grew odious to her when she remembred that with him Antonarus vs'd to come now she saw nothing but the foule Coppy of an excellent worke his presence made her see the absence of her sole content as the bare shelfes do of the ebbed Tyde and as bare without liking did he seeme yet could she not beware of the flowing ill which followed by his spite nor did shee striue to shunne any thing but his presence he infinitly louing she terribly hating let her passion grow to such violence as it grew infectious and he that but now sought still continued in search but of what Not of loue but meanes to beâ— reuenged of her whose loue he could not compasse but whose ouerthrowe he meant to gaine Eyes which lately seru'd to bring his comfort to him in seeing her are employd to be curious spies ouer her affections howres spent wholly in examining her worth and vertues chang'd to plott her ruine admiration of her goodnesse to admiring why hee could affect such a body of disdaine alteration so beyond expectation as vnderstanding when this happened was to seeke yet did he dissemble still and made loue the honour of noble hearts the colour for his wickednesse making his malice spring and ouergrow his loue as Nettles doe Violets or Hemlock Pincks yet did his counterfeit affection grow with it At last he wrought so cunningly as hee intercepted a Letter which shee sent to Antonarus which hauing opened and read he made the answer counterfeiting his hand so well as none could discouer it or know it to bee other then his the messenger he made safe for telling tales making bloud accompany his Treason Thus he continued heaping more ills vpon his soule then shels in number are vpon the Sea-shore alas that he were not my brother since I must thus speake of him or rather I would his last act had not made me the vnwilling and vnfit relater of his ill The poore Lady still louing him writ and with all the zealous affection shee could perswaded his returne with whom she would goe and bring him to the famous Duke her father where all honour should be done him He still answerd with deâ—layes at last or indeed his vnappointed Secratatary made this answere that good manners had made him thus long answer respectiuely but since he found that nothing but his company and marriage would satisfie her shee must be contented to be plainly told that he despised her forwardnesse and as much her selfe his heart being set already on one farre more deseruing then her selfe who deserued nothing of him to alter his former affection nor could merit any thing of the world if not by marrying Terichillus who affectionatly loued her and thus she might honor her self in requiting him and that if she desired to haue so much as a good thought from him shee must performe this or else to bee assured of a mortall hater of her selfe and house She alas whose heart loue had made tender and tendernesse pitifull could not but so much pitie it selfe as to breake with this vnkindnesse yet died shee not speedily but which was worst yet in a kind happy for her her woman wrought such meanes as a brother of hers found Antonarus to whom he discouered the pitifull estate of the Lady and what complaints she indured the absence and cruelty of him who sought to murder her for faithfully louing him This discourse made him resolue to see her and if it might be to saue her dying or shame of it working more in him then liuing loue could purchase so as he went to the Court where he found her ready to depart yet not past sense but that shee knew him or rather hauing only sense of loue tooke quick apprehension so as she looked vp and spake chearefully to him desiring all else to auoid the chamber when that was done she took him by the hand and weeping thus spake Antonarus what fault haue I committed that hath brought this cruelty from thee If extreame and loyall affection can offend then haue I infinitely offended But alas blame your selfe your vertues made me choose you your winning eies made me your subiect your worth commanded my fidelity you onely I loud and you onely murder me with vnkindnesse yet pardon me that I speake thus boldly since I feare my former boldnesse made you despise me Chide Loue alas it was he offended and I did but by directions write those Letters so reiected and despised by you He hearing her speake thus and touch vpon Letters desired to be resolu'd of that she admiring at his seeming ignorant of that yet loath euen at the last to seeme harsh to him told him of his curst answere and to satisfie him shew'd him the Letters themselues with the Copies of hers which said shee I had burnt had you not come as you did When he saw them no man could manifest more furious sorrow for he could not speake but wept and sob'd toare his haire
I should goe further said he you might imagine me one could tell I am verily pâ—rswaded of that said she But I feare your displeasure said he Why said Lindamira concerning none but poore me how can any thing trouble you It may be said he it toucheth others and so much as yoâ— will hate them for suffering for them I haue no reason for that said shee though it may be I shall bee angry with my selfe for giuing cause Then said he with your pardon I will tell you that I am inioyned not to let you of any know to secrecie I will not binde you for the businesse it selfe hath power to doe that wherewith the friend Lady rose and he proceeding told her all that had passed but now said he I feare you will hate me for this Pardon me my Lord answer'd she I am onely sorry that you should suffer for me so vnworthy of your fauour but for being offended I protest I loue her displeasure since shee hath honour'd me with this worthy opinion rather then I lou'd her greatest grace more noble is my fall then my time of fauor was he did not it seemed lose that opportunity nor was she nice to let him know her long loue expressions of it and embracing affections wanted of neither side what happines this was to sweet Lindamira that constant woman if such an other there be who lou'd fiue years vndiscouer'd then on such an vnlook'd for occasion reuealed so great a secret may iudge this shewed a strange happines to befal them that a iealous woman whose doubt of losse brought her losing Lindamira's gain thus you may see the effects of that base humor but alas what succeeded all this your fortune deare Dorilena and mine for after she had lost the Queens fauour indured an vnquiet life miserable crosses from her husband possessed with like or more furious madnes in iealousie her honor not touched but cast downe and laid open to all mens toungs and eares to be vsed as they pleas'd Lastly after fouâ—teen years vnchang'd affection she cast her off contemptuously and scornfully she complain'd which complaint because I lik'd it or rather found her estate so neere agree with mine I put into Sonnets this course I might call vngratefulnesse in him and giue all ill names to it but I will with the story conclude my rage against him for thus the Booke leaues her the complaint is this diuided into seauen Sonnets Lindamira's Complaint 1. DEare eyes farewell my Sunne once now my end While your kinde willing grace I felt all ioy In soule I knew withdrawne you now destroy The house that being gaue to loues best friend You now alas to other obiects bend That warmth of blisse which best delights enioy Striuing to win an oft won idle toy By falshood nurs'd such creatures seldome mend Try your new loues affect the choyce of store And be assur'd they likewise will choose more Which I yet grieue for though the losse I beare I would haue none with you to challenge right But beare you must for making choyce so light Yet still your beames I le loue shine you elsewhere 2. O Deadly rancour to a constant heart Frownesâ— and neglect my only fauours be Sometimes a cold respect is granted me But hot flames to those eyes ioy in my smart Once yet for Iustice sake weigh my hard part In gratefulnesse I should kinde vsage see For being tied alone to you els free Till by your wrongs now ioynd with heart-broke sâ—arâ— A glorious triumph you no doubt shall haue To crowne your victory on murders graue While falshood beares the armes my life hath won I onely for twise seauen yeares loue shall gaine Change worse then absence or death's cruelst paine The last yet got you haue your labour done 3. A Surgeon I would aske but 't is too late To stay the bleeding wound of my hurt heart The roote is toucht and the last drops depart As weeping for succeeding others fate Alas that my kild heart should waile my state Or leisure haue to thinke on ought but smart Nor doth it but with pitie beare a part With her` embrac'd yours like a louing mate But now unmarried by a new disdaine Cold death must take the body from her loue And thou poore heart must end for my unworth Conscience is lost and outward fairenes gaines The place where worth did or else seemd to moue Thus world like change new triall still brings forth 4. O Memorie could I but loose thee now At least learne to forget as I did moue My best and onely thoughts to waite on loue And be as Registers of my made vow Could I but let my mind to reason bow Or see plaine wrongs neglects and slightings proue In that deare Sphear which as the Heauens aboue I prizd and homage to it did allow Canst thou not turne as well a Traitor too Since Heauen-like powers teach thee what to doo Canst not thou quite forget thy pleasures past Those blessed houres the onely time of blisse When we feard nothing but we time might missâ— Long enough to enioy what 's now off cast 5. LEaue me vaine Hope too long thou hast possest My mind made subiect to thy flattring skill While Aprill mornings did my pleasures fill But cloudy dayes soone changd me from that rest And weeping afternoones to me adrest My vtter ruine framd by Fortunes will When knowledge said Hope did but breed and kill Producing only shadowes at the best Yet Hope t is true thy faults did faire appeare And therefore loth to thinke thou counseldst me Or wilfully thy errors would not see But catch at Sunne moates which I held most deare Till now alas with true felt losse I know Thy selfe a Bubble each faire face can blow 6 THough you forsake me yet alas permit I may haue sorrow for my poysn'd crosse Thinke not though dead to ioy I cannot hit Vpon a torture for my soule-pierc'd losse Or if by chance I smile I hopes ingrosse Nor for I die not I doe bliss admit Most griefe will oft giue leaue for show to toss Vpon the waues where Shipwraâ—k'd comfort split Thinke then your will and left leaue me yet more Vexe not my loathed life to ruine bent Be satisfied with glut of your bad change Lay me vnthought on in the loue-kill'd store My griefe 's my owne or since for you 't is sent Let me haue that part from you while you range 7 SOme doe perhapts both wrong my loue and care Taxing me with mistrust and Ielousie From both which sinnes in loue like freedome free I liue these slanders but new raised are What though from griefe my soule I doe not spare When I perceiue neglect's slight face on me While vnto some the louing smiles I see I am not Iealous they so well doe fare But doubt my selfe lest Nesse worthy am Or that it was but flashes no true flame Dazl'd my eyes and so my humour fed If this be
grieu'd I am in soule to tell the truth for you must and cannot choose but hate me when I shall say what yet my heart loth to let me speake my eyes will waste themselues in streames before I can vâ—ter it and my soule rend when I must say you cannot bee blessed in loue your wofull and sinfull mother being the cause and roote of all this mischiefe I blush in soule guiltinesse I mourne in the knowledge of my sinne I am more faulty then euer woman was and a meere staine to my sexe you cannot my dearest heart enioy this Lady nor you sweet Lady haue your loue I am the Monster that keepes the gates against you and the Serpent that deserues death from you for double iniury Then kneel'd shee downe pardon mee cryde shee you perfectest and best though most vnfortunate Louers I am the wretch that hath vndone you and my selâ—e your loue 's vnlawfull I am the shamefull cause thereof your loues cannot imbrace I am the Diuorcer your wishes if granted would bee wickednesse and I am the ground brought forth this poyson wonder not but shun me as the Pestilence I am not to bee neerer suffer'd then the Plague for such I am to you to you deare two the life of my poore life the reason of all this was loue and your loue by this sinfull loue is cross'd you are poore soules deceiu'd and couzened turne your affections now to chast and iust desires for you are ah that I must say so Brother and Sister children to one man They miserable soules could not looke vpon each other the grouâ—d was their highest obiect swell and almost burst they did with griefe their senses shut vp as in an Apoplexie at last all rose from the earth into which they rather would haue gone the old woman to her chamber where falling into passions her weaknes could not sustain but she with heart afflicted oppressed with shame and vnsufferable woe dyed being found in the morning in her bed a pittifull corps of an afflicted minde The youth and his Sister wept and sate that night together wringing their hands as their hearts and soules smarted for this harme In the morning for feare of spies they parted their misery being to shew themselues as carefull as before their honours and the Parents lying on it though their wofull fortunes might haue giuen liberty which was their greatest Prison liberty they before did couet now had is onely hated Sobs and groanes were the words they said farewell withall their eyes so fill'd with cloudes of teares as if yet pitty were had not to let them see their extreamest misery but through a scarfe of loue shed water The noise of the Ladies death was soone spread abroad the house comming to the young Lords eares who with much sorrow which hee dissembled not his supposed father being absent tooke order for her buriall himselfe soon after went thence priuatly like Caunus from Biblis yet the comparison holds not clearly because these Louers were chaste and pure after the secret was disclos'd Wandring about hee happened on this Desart and into a little round place in proportion like this you came from where you descended the stayres Shee follow'd him or fortune whither she would guide her who was so kinde as to bring her to this place where they continued some short space life not allowing too much sorrow to such vnfortunate though worthy creatures but would to assist them loose it selfe parting with them leauing their bodies cleare reliques of spotlesse truth and cross'd affections malice They saw each other and bewail'd their chance but to fauour each other came no neerer then through those bushes to behold their wofull selues as in Mooneshine glimmering and as colde At last as they had iustly at once begun their loues they iustly at one instant died a little before meeting pitty not letting the one outliue the other or loue couetous would receiue both parts at once againe into possession loth to spare any part of such perfection The bodies by diuine prouidence kept safe the woefull Prince Father to them by destiny brought to them hauing searched and all his seruants for them Vnder a great Cyprus Tree which grew where the stone is now they lay intwined in each others armes dying with as chast and in as chast embracements as they had liued her groanes of death called him who had as little life yet some thing more strength finding her end comming hee kissed her hand and dying lippes then tore some of those branches downe honouring againe poore Caparissus wearing his Funerall memory making two Coronets one for her another for him selfe and so Crowned but most with loyall spotles loue they ended leauing no staine but misfortune to touch them withal much honour to be rendred to their loues The Prince finding them thus fell downe on them and as it were breathing his last likewise into them but hee was to out liue them and to grace their Funeralls he therefore rose commanding that stately Tree to be cut downe whose pride had beene such as not to let any tree grow within the compasse of his armes of the body hee made a Coffin into which with precious balmes he layd the bodies as one then did hee get the rarest workman and by his directions make this place the comming to it he would haue this way as most vnusuall and strange as their liues the place els on the other side would haue suffered another and finer comming to it though painefull the ascent being so highe for indeed it was a place as cut out of the maine Rocke and wrought into the heart of it all of one side hauing light in aboundance but hee had as it were made his way in the middest thereof as if to pierce the Center as that part in their hearts had beene sealed When this stately and sumptuous building was finished he went into Chios where dwelt an ancient and rare Magitian this man he made his instrument to fulfill his intent who did so well performe it as hee accomplished what Art could frame my selfe my Wife the old woman that conducted your Maiesty and my Sonne that brought you hither were heere established by them this booke hee gaue mee to deliuer to you when you came and the time appointed when a woman should raigne heere louing as well as much deseruing but more happily enioying to her comfort which is your selfe I was commanded to tell this story to none els nor deliuer this Booke wherin this is more exactly expressed and yet all this in the presence of the King your chosen mate These I haue obserued and now haue but two things more to do which are these to shew you the Tombe then opened he that place which seem'd like an Altar wherein lay the two Louers adorn'd as they dyed with the same Garlands whose honour was to continue greene still as hopefull of their memory The candles hee then lighted telling them that hee and his
as day light Iust as Truth constant as Fate ioyd to requite Then Loue obey striue to obserue his might And be in his braue Court a glorious light 4. ANd be in his braue Court a glorious light Shine in the eyes of Faith and Constancy Maintaine the fires of Loue still burning bright Not slightly sparkling but light flaming be Neuer to slake till earth no Starres can see Till Sun and Moonâ— doe leaue to vs darke night And second Chaos once againe doe free Vs and the World from all diuisions spight Till then affections which his followers are Gouerne our hearts and prooue his powers gaine To taste this pleasing sting seeke with all care For happy smarting is it with small paine Such as although it pierce your tender heart And burne yet burning you will loue the smart 5. ANd burne yet burning you will loue the smart When you shall feele the waight of true desire So pleasing as you would not wish your part Of burthen should be missing from that fire But faithfull and vnfaigned heate aspire Which sinne abollisheth and doth impart Salues to all feare with vertues which inspire Soules with diuine loue which shewes his chast Art And guide he is to ioyings open eyes He hath to happinesse and best can learne Vs meanes how to deserue this he descries Who blinde yet doth our hidn'st thoughts diserne Thus we may gaine since liuing in blest Loue He may our Prophet and our Tutor prooue 6. HE may our Prophet and our Tutor prooue In whom alone we doe this power finde To ioyne two hearts as in one frame to mooue Two bodies but one soule to rule the minde Eyes which must care to one deare Obiect binde Eares to each others speach as if aboue All else they sweete and learned were this kind Content of Louers witnesseth true loue It doth inrich the wits and make you see That in your selfe which you knew not before Forcesing you to admire such gifts should be Hid from your knowledge yet in you the store Millions of these adorne the throane of Loue How blest are they then who his fauours proue 7. HOw bless'd be they then who his fauors proue A life whereof the birth is iust desire Breeding sweete flame which harts inuite to moue In these lou'd eyes which kindle Cupids fire And nurse his longings with his thoughts intire Fix't on the heat of wishes form'd by Loue Yet whereas fire destroyes this doth aspire Increase and foster all delights aboue Loue will a Painter make you such as you Shall able be to draw your onely deare More liuely perfect lasting and more true Then rarest Workeman and to you more neere These be the least then all must needs confesse He that shuns Loue doth loue himselfe the lesse 8. HE that shuns Loue doth loue himselfe the lesse And cursed he whose spirit not admires The worth of Loue where endlesse blessednes Raignes commands maintain'd by heau'nly fires Made of Vertue ioyn'd by Truth blowne by Desires Strengthned by Worth renew'd by carefulnesse Flaming in neuer-changing thoughts bryers Of Iealousie shall here misse welcomnesse Nor coldly passe in the pursutes of Loue Like one long frozen in a Sea of yce And yet but chastly let your passions moone No thought from vertuous Loue your minds intice Neuer to other ends your Phant'sies place But where they may returne with honor's grace 9. BVt where they may returne with Honor's gâ—ace Where Venus follies can no harboâ—r winne But chased are as worthlesse of the face Or stile of Loue who hath lasciuious beene Our hearts are subiect to her Sonne where sinne Neuer did dwell or rest one minutes space What faults he hath in her did still beginne And from her breast he suck'd his fleeting pace If Lust be counted Loue 't is falsely nam'd By wickednesse a fairer glosse to set Vpon that Vice which else makes men asham'd In the owne Phrase to warrant but beget This Childe for Loue who ought like Monster borne Be from the Court of Loue and Reason torne 10. BEe from the Court of Loue and reason torne For Loue in Reason now doth put his trust Desert and liking are together borne Children of Loue and Reason Parents iust Reason aduiser is Loue ruler must Be of the State which Crowne he long hath worne Yet so as neither will in least mistrust The gouernment where no feare is of scorn The reuerence both their mights thus made of one But wantonnesse and all those errors shun Which wrongers be Impostures and alone Maintainers of all follies ill begunne Fruit of a sower and vnwholesome grownd Vnprofitably pleasing and vnsound 11. VNprofitably pleasing and vnsound When Heauen gaue liberty to fraile dull earth To bring foorth plenty that in ills abound Which ripest yet doe bring a certaine dearth A timelesse and vnseasonable birth Planted in ill in worse time springing found Which Hemlocke like might feed a siâ—kâ—-wits mirth Where vnrul'd vapours swâ—mme in endlesse round Then ioy we not in what we ought to shunne Where shady pleasures shew but true borne fires Are quite quench'd out or by poore ashes won Awhile to keepe those coole and wann desires O no let Loue his glory haue and might Be giu'n to him who triumphs in his right 12. BE giu'n to him who triumphs in his right Nor fading be but like those blossomes faire Which fall for good and lose their colours bright Yet dye not but with fruit their losse repaire So may Loue make you pale with louing care When sweet enioying shall restore that light More cleere in beauty then we can compare If not to Venus in her chosen might And who so giue themselues in this deare kinde These happinesses shall attend them still To be supplide with ioyes enrich'd in minde With treasures of content and pleasures fill Thus loue to be diuine doth here appeare Free from all foggs but shining faire and cleare 13. FRee from all foggs but shining faire and cleare Wise in all good and innocent in ill Where holy friendship is esteemed deare With Truth in loue and Iustice in our Will In Loue these titles onely haue their fill Of happy life-maintainer and the meere Defence of right the punisher of skill And fraude from whence directions doth appeare To thee then Lord commander of all hearts Ruler of our affections kinde and iust Great King of Loue my soule from faigned smarts Or thought of change I offer to your trust This Crowne my selfe and all that I haue more Except my heart which you bestow'd before 14. EXcept my heart which you bestowd before And for a signe of Conquest gaue away As worthlesse to be kept in your choice store Yet one more spotlesse with you doth not stay The tribute which my heart doth truely pay Is faith vntouch'd pure thoughts discharge the score Of debts for me where Constancy beares sway And rules as Lord vnharmd by Enuies sore Yet other mischeifes faile not to attend As enemies to you my foes
of noble thoughts assurance of that she falsely conceiued prouing this to be true that mistrust which is most times built vpoÌ„ falshood gaines greatest assurance froÌ„ the falsest grounds She seeing her blush as she cald it by that iudging guiltines and that working spite went away laden with scorne her own suspition which now wrought to fury Into her chamber she went where throwing her selfe vpon her bed careles of ease or hansomnes she brake into these speeches Accursed day that first knew Antissia breathing why was not the aire pestilent the milke poyson the armes that held me serpents and the breasts that gaue mee suck venom'd and all these chang'd from their proper goodnesse to haue wrought my destruction Miserable fate that brought me to beâ— lost and found by him who now â—uines me Treacherous Loue but more treacherous Louer I might wretch that I was haue taken heed by others and not haue runne into the same danger my selfe now I am well requited and payed in the same kind for glorying at them and in my gaine while they waild vnder the waight of his forsaking them now must I tread with them in the path of that miserie Fond creatures that ioy in this beware this must at last bee your owne your turne 't will bee though last to leade the dance False creature was it not enough to deceiue mee of my liberty and honour but to ouerthrow me vtterly to destroy my quiet content which in the smart of your loue I enioyed Cursed bee the time I admired your sweetnesse and familiar kindnesse your louing care and tender respect which made my heart too soft yeelding to the power of your allurings Is it come to this Was all your fondnesse for this purpose Did you only striue to win to cast away at pleasure Were all your desired meetings for this to make me the more miserably end with neglectiue forsakennesse If any man could be true I assured my selfe it must be you O that I had enough considered there was doubt iustlie made of mans truth in loue then had I more safely defended my selfe from this disaster Amphilanthus thou wert Noble iust free How is this change Can noblenesse bee where deceit rules Can iustice be where cousonage gouerns can freedome bee where falshood liues Those were but these are now in thee Was thy sadnesse for this new wound Alas I assured my selfe it was for parting from mee that so much change did grow Could not I blinde foole that I was haue markt his often frequenting Pamphilia's Chamber his priuate discourse with her his seeking opportunitie to bee in her presence his stolne lookes his fearefull but amorous touching her hand his kissing his owne hand rather comming from hers then going to hers Louing it more for hauing touch'd that beloued hand then for being his Oft would hee doe this and looke on mee then did I beleeue all was meant to mee which he did to her and wisht it had been I his eyes betraid mee my beliefe bewitched mee and his falshood must kill mee Churlish affection why torture you me alone make him likewise smart make her likewise vexe But I need not curse her since poore Lady she is but entring into her following perplexitie Alas Pamphilia I pitie thee and indeed loue thee no whit lesse then before I cannot nor may not blame thee for louing him since none can resist his conquering force in loue nor for seeking him for whose soule would not couet him but I blame him for spoyling poore hearts to his glorious triumph Vnnaturall man that preyes on his owne kind nourishing his life with the ruine of simple innocent Louers a cruell foode but crueller deuourer of them which hath wrought this hardnesse in mee as from hence to loue thee but till I can bee reueng'd of thee and such a reuenge will I haue as thy hard heart shall melt for it if any goodnesse bee left in it for ouer the world will I seeke thee my iourney to Romania once ended to bee thus quit with thee that thy false eyes and flattring tongue shall bee no longer able to deceiue or betray thy selfe or others but behold the true end of me who gaine my death by thy falsehood and in thy presence will I conclude my life with my loue to thee I wondred yet neuer had wit to doubt why so much Ceremonie lately came from you ceremonie indeede being a shadow not substance of true loue Change wrought it and change put on the habit of that which once was loue for once I know you loued mee and was fond of me fond I fondnesse it may most properly be cald for loue is eternall but this changeable Many wee see fond of sports of horses of doggs and so was it my dogged fortune to haue you fond of me but the immortall part the soule is not fond but louing which loue for euer liues and this loue wanted I onely enioying his fond and fondly proou'd desires which are remou'd and haue left nothing behind but the sad remembrance of my once great and highest esteem'd blessing now remaine I throwne downe into the darknesse of despaire and losse by losse of his affection Thus discoursing tossing vpon her Bed she remain'd fed not nor slept all that night the next morning early going to the Garden Woods whither she sooner came then Pamphilia where being a while and sitting vnder the same Ashe wherein the other affectionate afflicted Princesse had written the Sonnet shee was inuited either by her owne passion or the imitation of that excellent Lady to put some of her thoughts in some kind of measure so as shee perplexed with loue iealousie and losse as shee beleeu'd made this Sonnet looking vpon the Sunne which was then of a good height THe Sunne hath no long iourney now to goe While I a progresse haue in my desires Disasters dead-low-water-like do show The sand that ouerlook'd my hop'd for hyres Thus I remaine like one that 's laid in Briers Where turning brings new paine and certaine woe Like one once burn'd bids me auoid the fires But loue true fire will not let me be slow Obedience feare and loue doe all conspire A worth-lesse conquest gain'd to ruine me Who did but feele the height of blest desire When danger doubt and losse I straight did see Restlesse I liue consulting what to doe And more I study more I still vndoe Vndoe cride she alas I am vndone ruind destroyd all spoild by being forsaken restlesse affliction which proceeds from forsaking yet would I bee beholding to this Enemie of mine if forsaking in my torments would possesse me so I might remaine forsaken by them but that must not bee I must onely know pleasure happinesse and the chiefe of happinesses loue from my beloued forsake mee but paine torture and shame will still abide and dwell with me Then went shee a little further towards the Riuer where by the banke vnder the Willow lay the supposed Amphilanthus the cause of
try the enchantment Thus they parted Leandrus much greiued for Parselius not indeed being able to iudge of the matter yet tooke hee a good courage to him as a happie foretelling of his friends safetie and so tooke his way to Dalineas Castle whom he found in as much molestation as euer louing and faithfull wife felt for the absence of her husband But when shee saw her Brother the ioy of that and her iudgment contending with her passion made her hide it so well as he only beleeued she had beene ill of a feauer which was true but t was the Hectique feauer of loue Some dayes hee tarryed there all which time she held in good order but he once gone she fell into the most dolorous and vnsufferable passions that violence in violent loue could produce Parselius with a hartlesse body and wounded soule neuer asking whither they carryed him nor speaking one word held on till they landed him in an Iland which they knew so going away from them he sought the most obscure place he could but finding now none sad enough desiring to outgoe Perissus in his desolate liuing which made him againe remember the happinesse he had in the finding Vrania for whom he now suffers was assaulted with a new kind of sorrow yet all but running to the end of torturing him embracing memory for telling him all her perfections as if the fault the miserie of her rage the misfortune of her losse were not enough to perplexe him but he must needs add memory as a plague of his owne bringing and cherishing Then did he wish he were in that Iland and that he might spend his daies in the same rocke and that it might likewise include his miseries cursing his indiscretion that suffered the Ship to goe away before shee had conuayd him thither then seeking for some other Barque that might doe it he ranne to the Sea againe where he found a little boate and in her an old Hermitte with him he would goe nor could the old Father disswade him To a Rocke they came being a prettie way within the Sea where being landed the old man ledd the way vp to the toppe where it seem'd there had beene anciently a Temple of great state and bignesse as yet by the ruines did appeare among those sad places the Cell of this good man was made with this religious man in this solitary place he resolu'd to end his daies thinking he could not doe better then hide his face which euen himselfe was ashamed of for hauing committed so execrable an offence Then sate they downe together the old Hermitt consenting to his stay at last but something against his will at first he tooke him and he happy if that word may be vsed in that miserie where happines nor content or any thing but afflictions are but vse what terme you wil to this here he stayd being set they tould their owne stories to each other Parselius beginning Aged and graue Father giue mee leaue by way of confession to tell you my wofull life which being so deliuered claymes secresie of it selfe did not your goodnesse otherwise warrant mee that from you My name is Parselius borne in an vnhappy houre and vnder a cursed plannet in Morea Prince therof and of all miseries my possessions so largely extending in that continent as none hath a more mightie inheritance I was bred much at Athens yet could I learne no way to avoyd misfortune but how to bee subiect to it I was most apt humilitie to subiection raigning more in mee then rule My trauells I beganne as likewise all my good with a Cosin of mine also bred there and for the only happynesse I euer tasted We â—ent sometime together in the search of one who I assâ—â—e my selfe I haue found and with the finding lost my selfe hauing before that parted from my friends to the most excellent and in thaâ— my sinne the morâ— excelling I came into an Iland where I found her whose beauty excelled all things but her mind which yet beautified thatâ— else maâ—chlesse body with her I fell in loue and loued her earnestly villaine â—hat I â—ay I lou'd and so proue by the change my fault much more that I must say I euer lou'd her who sweetest Creature beleeuing me that then was iust went with leauing that Iland where she was bred trusting me who haue deceiued her Many dangers we passâ—d she in all of them fearing nothing but my harmâ— who since haue brought the greatest to her at last a storme tooke vs when wee were as we thought safe and in sight of Italâ— and wherin we might haue landed but desteny otherwise appoynted for vs. This tempest brought vs from ioy and comfort to despaire and losse for wee were carryed in the many daies that it endured to Ciprus where landing by wicked charmes our shippe burned and wee were forced to goe vp into the Iland for succour Then arriued we at an inchaunted Palace made of purpose for my destruction wherein Vrania is inclosed shee whom once I did best loue who ought still to haue beene best loued and shee for whose losse in my falshood thus tormenteth mee thence parted I depriued of all sense but by leauing that Land came againe into them to bee more vexed with them a while and wretch too small a while lamenting her imprisonment and my want which willfully I causâ—d to be no longer want but direct losse O fault vnpardonable why doe I liue to confesse it and shame in mee not quite deuouring me but I who was borne to ill ledd by the seruants of Hell or Hell it selfe conspiring my ruine brought me into Achaia and so into the power of vild change There I saw Dalinea daughter to the King of Achaia shee blinded not alone mine eyes with admiration but my iudgement blotting out forceing my memory to bee treacherous to me made me forget all thoughts of my more deseruing loue and truth it selfe letting mee see nothing but desire of her loue she vertuous and too perfect for such a worthlesse Creature as my selfe could but allowe of vertuous yeelding I to enioy granted any thing and so I marryed her with whom I remain'd some while as happy as any blessing in a wife could make mee and yet in that am most vnblessed not being able to continue in that happy state of still enioying her too great a portion of good for mee wretched man to haue For one night I saw Vrania in my sleepe appeare vnto me or better to say my conscience taking the aduantage of my bodyes rest the hatefull enemie to the soules blisse and in that quiet shewed vnto mee my deerest shepherdesse iustly â—ccusing me and condemning mee I had no way to escape if not by this meanes I rose I left Dalinea for Vrania's fury whose sweete substance I lost for Dalinea's loue I haue now left both both iniâ—r'd both afflicted by me Why should I then continue such an affâ—â—ction to the rarest of
you heede faire maid loue is a power that will though once gainsaid the second time come in with armes and make your chastest thoughts contribute to his taxe had you beene in the chamber or but mark'd the piercing darts hee sent by lookes of loue such as had beene enough to burne a heart that would contend but yeelding to make ioy glory in greater pride then euer ioy did know I found some verses too which hee hath made and giuen his mistresse by them you may ghesse in what estate his restlesse burning soule continues flaming to my vtter shame and ruine of my name Then tooke hee forth some verses which indeed I doe confesse I made and most vnfortunately lost those lines gaue full assurance of the truth and bred as true a hate in her to vs which though she stroue to couer and dissemble with show of sorrow onely for my griefe yet hee perceiu'd as hauing eyes of Art and those directed by a diuellish wit these found what hee did seeke then wrought hee still on that and so at last came to his practise end which happened the day before the feast had full conclusion in this haplesse kind The iealous and despightfull Melinea when dancing did begin of purpose let the paper fall but so as Selinea must bee next to take it vp which soone she did and opening it discerned it was my hand and that the subiect of those lines was loue which was most true but alas falsly held from her to whom they and my firmest thoughts were onely bent and dedicated with affections zeale and zealous loue these and my negligence in not seeking to confirme her trust confident of her loue made her alas belieue too soone The paper was with faigned anger snatched quickly from my mistris shee with blushing said Why Melinea I thought you had not beene one so much giuen to Poetry till now I made them not said shee No sighing said the other I know that with which shee looked on mee but with so cruell eyes and yet affection went with them though shadowed with her scorne which might be pitty call'd These strake my heart in sunder with their sight O mee cryed I haue I fram'd these to spoyle my fortunes which should haue procur'd my blisse by telling what I could not vtter speach tyed by a power of a greater might Alas that euer I did take a penne in hand to be the Traytor to my ioy this griefe made me as guilty seeme by shame and silence which did then possesse my most distracted senses as if I had been as false as they made me appeare The dauncing went still on but she who was the best like to her heart she rul'd her feete in sad and walking pace now was the plot well forward hee wrought still and finding fault there was no nimbler sports came and intreated me to take his wife and so begin a more delightfull daunce Hee saw my griefe she found his drift two hated mee to death all were disorderd but I onely lost thus pass'd the night the morning come to part we were directed by our words giuen at the meeting Faine I would haue spoken but shee who thought me false auoided it and gaue but liberty to say farewell which euen with teares I did She loath now to behold me who of late she lou'd cast downe her eyes not gracing me with one poore looke which though disgracefull yet as hers had beene more welcome then the sweetest smiles that euer louer ioyd in from his Loue. Thus we were parted to dispaire and losse yet meant I not to leaue my mistris so but quickly found a meanes to visit her when she continuing still her cruell frownes to mee I got yet liberty by my cares watch to speake with her although against her minde but then more cruell then the fiercest Lyons enrag'd by famine did bring forth these words False man said shee haue you not yet enough that your deceipt hath come vnto mine eyes For false you are else had you lou'd me still you would haue diligently cleer'd this doubt but O you thinke this not enough nor I sufficiently afflicted with your fault but more you would intice me for more paine glory in your iniustice and make triumphes for your ill blaze to the world the sinne of your ingratitude and change and that once done hope then to winne againe but who none but so lucklesse and vnblessed a soule as I was who did trust you cruell you the worst and falsest of your changing sexe This being said but force could hold her wherefore for feare of further rage I let her goe remaining like the Creatures Metamorphos'd into stones Yet at last I went into my Chamber and there framd some lamentable lines to let her see how cruelly shee had with scorne and strange mistaking martyr'd mee When I deliuered them shee tooke them with these words I le reade them said shee onely to perceiue how well your vaine continues in this change or if you please I le be you messenger and giue them Melinea from your selfe These wounded mee more then the sharpest Sword but more alas grew my mishapp for she hating so much as once before she lou'd desir'd me to loue my selfe so well as to refraine to shew my eyes to her where so much false ingratitude did dwell and for my sake shee would not onely doe the like for mee in keeping from my sight least I with seeing her should see my shame but would for my foule fault hate all mens loues this I besought her to recall she said it fixed was then went I thence and mourned a while vnseene at last my Fathers miserie called me to succour him that done againe I sought to gaine her pardon but alas in vaine for she resolud to nothing but my griefe shunn'd as she promisd my then loathed sight After her husband dyed I then did woe her offered marriage sought with more then Vassal-like desire but nothing mooud her vntill loue againe did take anew the conquest of her heart making her contrary to all her likings which shee till then had publish'd choose a braue yong Lord in truth a worthy man but contrary in all the outward markes which heretofore she said could winne her loue When I saw this I knew there was no hope I left her and the Countrey blaming fate that thus had made me causelesly accursed Farewell said I deere Lady of my soule and farewell all loue to your wayward sex where iudgement liues but in the shallow being of an outward sight curst is that man that puts least trust in you more certainely the ficklest weather hath more staidnesse feathers and more profit drops of raine in Snow which melts with it while you spoile onely me thus I departed when she married last and then for her sake vowed as she had done but with more manly constancy to hold a true and a loyall oath neuer to loue or chuse a Creature of so light a kinde as
ill refines Alas yet as you burne My pitie smarts and groanes to turne Your paines away and yet you must consume Content in me must beare no plume Dust-like Dispaire may with me liue Yet shall your memory out-driue These paines wherein I mourne You reliques of pure loue To sacred keepe with me remooue Purg'd by this fire from harme and iealous feare To liue with me both chast and cleare The true preserueresse of pure truths Who to your graue giues a youth In faith to liue and mooue Famous body's still in flames Did anciently preserue their names Vnto this funerall nobly you are come Honour giuing you this tombe Teares and my loue performe your rights To which constancie beares lights To burne and keepe from blame This did not satisfie her grieuing for the losse of those kind lines but each day did shee say the Letter to her selfe which so much shee loued as shee had learned by heart then looking on the Ashes wept and kissing them put them vp againe and thus continued shee till Ollorandus himselfe came to whom these daylie offerings were made for hee after hee had settled his Kingdome longing as much to see her as shee desired his presence put the Gouernment to the charge of a president and his Counsell assuring them that nothing should haue so soone parted him from them but that hee must now performe his part of friendship to Amphilanthus which was required of him who had so louingly and brauely accomplished his None were against that all honouring and louing him so much as hee had much adoe but with kind quarrels to leaue the Countrie without some of them to attend him yet by his milde perswasions and the new Kings commanding power they two tooke their iourney the Dwarfe againe returning the very day before they left Prage Towards Hungarie they then haste passing through Morauia where they met a strange encounter and a sad spectacle which was a company of men all on foote being apparrel'd in long mourning Gownes and after them a Chariot beeing drawne by sixe Horses they beeing couered with blacke and in the Chariot was a bodie beeing couer'd with a blacke Veluet couering and at the feet of this Body sate a Ladie her face beeing towards it and most pitifullie weeping many more in mourning likewise walking by the Chariot round about it and behind it This lamentable and dolefull spectacle mooued the hearts of the Knightes who beeing verie passionate quickly felt pitie and riding presently to one of the followers desiring to bee resolu'd of this matter the Gentleman courteously answered that the businesse was of so long a times discourse as would demaund more leysure then hee thought their businesse would well allow them therefore hee besought to bee excused vnlesse they meant to succour that distressed Lady who most iustly might claime assistance and reuenge for a murdered Knight vniustlie and treacherouslie slaine for loue Loue their Master commanded their seruice so as they said they would willingly doe their best to redresse such an iniurie Then the Gentleman going to the Lady told her what the Knights said she casting vp her eyes which before she held on the Coarse the body and soule of her affections Alas Sirs said shee what misfortune hath brought you to ingage your selues to true misery as in ioyning with me you must do for a more wretched neuer liued to die so Our fortunes said Ollorandus speaking in her owne language is the best we could couet if they may prooue auaileable to you nor doe we desire any more then to know how we may serue you Then Sir said shee let mee bee so bold as to demaund first who you are that I may discouer my estate the more freely and willingly to you My name said hee is Ollorandus King of Bohemia and this is Amphilanthus King of the Romans Happinesse beyond all hope cry'd shee Alas my Lord this is the King that of all the World I haue desired to meete and now trauell to seeke in Italy then kneeled shee vnto him beseeching him to graunt her what hee had of himselfe so nobly promised Hee vowed to performe any thing whatsoeuer that lay in his power to doe then comming forth of the Chariot and they lighting they retired into a little tuft of Thornes by the way side shee beginning her storie thus Most braue and renowned of Kings and you great King bee pleased to giue eare to the saddest storie that euer loue and louers end hath produced I am that miserable vnfortunate woman Sydelia passionately louing and being beloued of the excellent and veâ—tuous Antonarus long wee loued but a hate betweene my brother called Terichillus and my loue growne in their youth hindred our enioyings my brother so curiouslie watching mee himselfe or others neuer or seldome from mee as I was able onely to see my afflictions and wants but not the Sunne of my content for my Brother being the Heire of Morauia and the other the Prince of Silesia that kept him from venturing into his Countrie knowing the infinite malice hee bare vnto him alas no way deseruing it But at last my brother was to marry Orguelea daughter to the Duke of Bauaria and going thither to performe it left mee guarded by his seruants whom in his absence so well I wrought with as I compassed the sight of my Deare who in the habit of a Hunts-man came vnto me we married priuatly and so enioyed the time till my brothers returne with his new Ladie as full of spite and ill nature as a Spider with poyson to her he had disclosed this matter with his hate to Antonarus and to her gaue the charge of mee my Father hauing before giuen ouer the world and was retyred into a religious house hauing left me and all his estate to my brother yet during his life my brother would not take the title vpon him but the authority of the County of Morauia Now was my Hunts man to returne small safetie being where such hatefull spies inhabited no more surety then a poore hare hath in the hands of the hounds who haue long hunted to prey vpon it so did they seeke to ruine vs the extreame hate my brother bare to Antonarus rising from this cause When they were youthes and both in the Emperous Court there liu'd at that time a young Lady of the house of Austria â—xcellently faire and as fairely condition'd whose vertues were such as most prizing worth for Vertues sake she made choice wholy of worthinâ—sse in conuersation choice of companions and the whole course of her life ranne that way which made her chooce Antonarus and so much to affect him as nothing but death could be ender of her affection and yet I know not how I can say so since dying shee express'd her affection to him she loued and no question but his goodnesse requited it in his wishes to serue her but friendship wrought so in him as he would not seeme to receiue it my brother being so
after hee had gain'd her firmest loue and so by vowes obtained what he sought most vildly he beganne to change and fell inamour'd of a Princes maide who being neere allied vnto my Lady often came to visite her at Court this Gentlewoman truly was most faire and I thinke good till then if not then too we sawe it and were vex'd with it yet knowing that no curster cor'siue can bee to a louer then to be dispised especially by him that once did loue at last she found it miserable knowledge how then was she grieued if I should offer to discouer I must say I am a louer and forsaken to otherwise can none or ought any to presume to tell a farlorne creatur's woe First in silence she did beare her paine and with attendance and continuall kindnes striue to win him back or rather that he might not thinke she did mistrust she stroue to hold his loue But that vngratefull man which name is more then her gentle affection will yet permitt her to giue him discerning her respect and loue would seeme to see neither yet faild he not in all outward shewes to manifest his change She writ vnto him she wept before him she complayned she bewailed others that were forsaken he heard and not regarded he answer'd but slighted he ioyned in pittying them but neglected her that most wanted she lost her beauty with sorrow with weeping whole nights and sobbing that I haue my selfe come in vncalled but by those sorrowes to her the greatnesse of her heart though able in the day to couer them yet was forced at night to borrow assistance of breathing out what her spleene was ouer charg'd withall and what saue teares sobs and silence would shee trust for her associates Forgetfull man that so abused her who wrong'd her selfe alone in trusting him nay wrong himselfe in such a base vnworthy change I aduentured to aduise when I saw all misery ouer take her shee tooke my counsell which was to vrge the marriage He slighted her and told her she was growne old and her beawty alter'd willed her to recouer that and when he return'd from a iourney that he had in hand he would be as he was Alas what torment was this to her who was only his she tooke it to the heart though hee smilingly deliuered it as if in iest till all considered it aprooued true then faign'd he an excuse that the King his father sent for him and that at his returne he would not misse to performe what hee had promised so he found her as he expected His leaue he tooke of her which went as neere her heart as marrow to the bones yet staid he afterwards with the other wench som certaine daies We vsed al meanes to hold her ignorant of that and many more his passages but what more cleare and perfect sighted then true loue She knew all and yet knew her faith so cleare to him as she would blind her sight rather then touch his truth O faithles Amphilanthus accursed man that brought this hard insufferable wrong and harme vnto the faithfullest and the worthiest louer that euer loue did wound But to proceed he went and left my Lady quite forsaken and forlorne who since vnhappy woman liues in groanes and daily sorrowings But where now is the Prince said Amphilanthus Truly Sir said she where the falsest ficklest waueringst and vnworthiest man doth liue and there is hee and else where know I not No such vnworthinesse liues in that Prince I know him well said he and lately saw him but I will not say 't is the same you speake of for it may be some such creature hath abused his name and for these ends giuen out to be the man Know you the Prince then said she if you doe hee is a faire false man a treacherous well shap'd man not tall though high in mischieuous ill nature slender but full in wickednes curld haire and thicke yet bauld in vertue and this is Amphilanthus as he cald himselfe The Prince knew straight it was another man she meant yet grieued to heare his name so much abused and that a Princesse should beare wrong for him This besides his owne interest in the matter made him vow reuenge wherefore hee desired to see the Princesse the first Lady told him that if hee would attend her comming forth of the Wood hee should be admitted to her sight he would not further vrge and so with them sat downe while one of them sung this Song telling him it was made by her Lady who was as perfect in all noble qualities as subiect to loue and so to bee for too much faith deceiued FRom victory in loue I now am come Like a commander kild at the last blow In stead of Lawrell to obtaine a tombe With triumph that a steely faith I show Here must my graue be which I thus will frame Made of my stony heart to other name Then what I honor scorne brings me my tombe Disdaine the Priest to bury me I come Cloath'd in the reliques of a spotlesse loue Embrace me you that let true louers in Pure fires of truth doe light me when I mooue Which lamp-like last as if they did begin On you the sacred tombe of loue I lay My life neglect sends to the hellish way As offering of the chastest soule that knew Loue and his blessing till a change both slew Here doe I sacrifice worlds time of truth Which onely death can let me part with all Though in my dying haue perpetuall youth Buried alone in you whereby I fall Open the graues where louers Saints haue laine See if they will not fill themselues with paine Of my affliction or striue for my place Who with a constant honour gaine this grace Burne not my body yet vnlesse an Vrne Be fram'd of equall vertue with my loue To hold the ashes which though pale will burne In true loues embers where he still will moue And by no meanes let my dust fall to earth Lest men doe enuy this my second birth Or learne by it to find a better state Then I could doe for loue immaculate Thus here O here 's my resting place ordain'd Fate made it e're I was I not complaine Since had I kept I had but blisse obtain'd And such for loyalty I sure shall gaine Famebeares the torches for my last farewell To life but not to loue for there I dwell But to that place neglect appoints for tombe Of all my hopes thus Death I come I come Did Emilina said the Prince write this sure Amphilanthus could neuer be false to such a creature He was and is said she and truly doth hee make good his name that signifieth the louer of two That name said he was giuen him e're he knew what loue was or himselfe The latter sure he knowes not yet said shee You will I doubt not shortly haue a better opinion of this Prince Neither of him nor those that be his companions said she vnlesse I grow
greatest hearts for pitty cries and wailes neglectedâ— nay so dyes If thus you then be placed no maruell sure you leaue my poore afflicted body desolate where nothing but distemper or loues paines inhabite yet cast your lookes this way see my petition for your safe returne heare mee make vowes that none but you can bring content your absence mastring mee your presence bringing blisse yet absent your loued Image and your dearest selfe remaines infigured in my chastest breast and myrrour-like presents you to my sight yet coldly like a Statue made of stone or as the picture while loues sweetest race runs to the warmth of sight If then remembrance or the perfect memory of you be but a picture whereof I am made the liuely case faithfully keeping that rich portraict still from change or thought that relique to displace nourishing and with it liuing as oyle and lampes doe simpathise in life each looke alluring wishings to our ioyes Restore that life-peece now and make me bless'd crowne my soules longing with thy grant and come to see mâ—e triumph in thy dearest sight my onely selfe my onely loue These passions was she in when Philistella found her in the walkes speaking vnto her selfe and walking with so fast and vnused a fashion differing from her graue and discreet manner as if loue had lay'd a wager with discretion yet hee would make her at that time to fulfill his will forget her selfe and wholly serue him he won that and iudgement made her asham'd when Philistella came vnto her and told her shee wonder'd to see her so Loue loue faire Philistella cryed shee can doe this and more but happy you can keepe your paines more secret and more close that is not not e'er yet hath beene my hap said she for no eye hath beheld mee but together sawe my loue No sweetest Cousin saide Vrania wrong not your great wit with taxing it vniustly haue I not seene how prettily and with an excellent disdaine you did refuse his humble suite in loue his eyes haue beene euen ready to burst out in teares when you haue smiled and changed your first discourse as if of purpose to deny his plaints Alasse would I thinke happy Philistella how art thou aboue thy sexe most fortunate poore me had I but one such or the like content it were for mee eternall happinesse while she reiecteth loue did Steriamus loue like as his brother doth were I not of all women blessed but his affections are in an other seate enthronised these thoughts while you like Summer florish'd nipp'd my dayes yet now I praise my desteny nothing except sad absence grieueth mee while you whether not grieu'd or not so louing I cannot well iudge feele not or shew not that you haue the sence which absence brings vs louers Sweetest Vrania answerd she my soule can tell you I dissemble not nor did my manner or my face couer yet my flames when I did heare my deare and only Lord imprisoned was did I not faint and loose my strength as hating that since not sufficient to release my loue Was not the Court distempred and my Parents grieued fearing my comming danger when the harme was neerer to mee then they could imagine Wept I not when the mastring griefe was passed sighed I not still cryd against proud and curst treacheries how did I hide the boyling heate of sorrow I containd Wau'd I not with each passion vp and downe as boughs blowne with the wind some times resolu'd to die other times to liue for a reuenge and still distracted more I sought to turne more fast tied still my heart like leade in fire melting with the heate of fury call you this discreete and wise behauiour could loue no better bee dissembled or the sparkes no finelier raked vp in discretion But now I see you smile at me while you indeed doe better and more curiously like cunning workemen best beguile our eyes It s well sweet daintiest Princesse you may flout your friends But said Vrania when did you see me one whole day and not sigh or weepe or steale away to do them I heere vow vnto Loue which vow I will not break that neuer creature felt more paine nor euer any more discouerd it I doe confesse it as a weaknesse in me but I cannot helpe it if I did see him one poore instant space alone me thought it was my duty to goe to him if he spake to another was I not nor am I not thinke I as worthy or as fit to talke with as her selfe Almost suspition oft-times grew in me but absolute fondnesse neuer was away I doe not thinke in houres while I haue stood at audiences which the King hath giuen I haue been one minute altogether ioyned with my eyes held from him I haue looked off t is true but like a Deare at feede start vp for feare but straight againe returnd vnto the food which from his eyes I tooke yet I am secret and discreet in loue Neuer credit mee deare Cosin if I speake not truth I found not that you did requite his loue till your owne lippes to honour me deliuered it I shall the better credit this and loue my fashion so much more said Philistella since you commend me but in troth I spake as guiltinesse forced mee but now wee are so free let me be bold to aske this question In this heate of loue did not your former passion neuer come glancing into your eyes could you behold Parselius with freedome and Steriamus with affection I will said Vrania as to my confessor tell you the truth it was mee thought a wonderfull odde change and passing different affection I did feele when I did alter for though I were freed from my first loue and had a power to choose againe yet was I not so amply cured from memorie but that I did resemble one newly come out of a vision distracted scarce able to tell whether it were a fixion or the truth yet I resolued and so by force of heauenly prouidence lost the first and liue in second choice and this deare soueraigne good receiued I from Leucadia But when I had thus far proceeded then did feare accompany my change lest Steriamus should despise my second loue not hauing giuen him my first as the best which in troth in some sort he had obtaind for I liked him before I loued the other Oft did I study how I might compasse my blessing when for my most and future happinesse hee was as much engaged vnto me and so was Melisseas Prophecy performed for wee from death in shew rose vnto a new loue he feared likewise that I would scorne his gift and after many vehement and affectionate suings hee presented me with a little booke of Verses among which were many to excuse himselfe and to commend a second loue I remember one Sonnet being this BLame me not dearest though grieued for your sake Loue mild to you on me triumphing sits Sifting the choysest ashes of my wits
in his chaines and by them fastned to a Pillar not hauing so much fauour allowed him as to be permitted to sit or lie to ease himselfe griefe onely shewed in his face to be predominate Amphilanthus beholding him Alas braue Prince said he must those excellent armes and hands be bound to her cruell ingratitude and inhumane vnkindnesse must thy worth bee chained by her vnworthinesse and thy excelling selfe a prisoner to her pride Then hasted he the combat wherein he encountred a valiant and strong Gentleman being one fit to defend an ill cause by reason that strength is most required when weakenesse gouern'd by Iustice will be strong enough but his strength though Iustice had been ioyned would haue faild against this King who had so soone ended the businesse as it appeared rather a thought of a combate then the executing of one The Princesse in infinite furie flung from the window commanding that the strangers with their gaine quickly left her Country least they obtained Polarchos Cage The King was offended with her arrogancy yet being slightly attended to oppose a whole Country went quickly thence glad of his happy aduenture to haue his friend with him and in that manner redeemed by his hand from such a bondage On they passe towards Greece determining to hold that name the Princesse had been so bold with all hauing had so great fortune with it in the beginning and so to goe vnknowne towards the Army where with some prety fine aduentures they arriued one being this Not farre from Athos where they landed by a delicate Woods side they saw a Forrest Nimph lie on the ground and hard by her a youth who as he beheld her with as much amorosnesse as his young yeares could entertaine or loue be pleased to inrich him with all sang this Song LOue among the clouds did houer Seeking where to spie a louer In the Court he none could find Townes too meane were in that kind At last as he was ripe to crying In Forrest woods he found one lying Vnder-neath a tree fast sleeping Sprit of Loue her body keeping Where the soule of Cupid lay Though he higher then did stay When he himselfe in her discrying He hasted more then with his flying And his tender hand soft laying On her breast his fires were playing Wak'd her with his baby game She who knew loue was no shame With his new sport smild as delighted And homeward went by Cupid lighted See the shady Woods bestowing That which none can aske as owing But in Courts where plenties flow Loue doth seldome pay but owe Then still giue me this Country pleasure Where sweet loue chastly keepes his treasure She was faire and he louely being apparreld in greene made so neately and fit to him as if he had been a Courtier or one of those finer people had had his cloathes might haue been calld curious his legges straight and of the curiousest shape were in white stockins Garters he had none his Hose being fastned aboue his knee vnder his Girdle stuck his Arrowes his Bow he held in his left hand in stead of a Scarfe he had the line and coller where with he was to leade his hound baudrick-wise athwart his slender body the Dog lay at his feete waiting on him it appear'd willingly he attended for he needed no bands to tie him to his seruice his haire was thick somthing long and curld the Sunne had made it something yellower then it naturally was as if he would haue it nearer his owne beames so much hee loued the Lad vsed to hold him neare for he had kist his cheekes too hard leauing the remembrance of his heate which yet did well with him manifesting the better his manner of life and the practice of hunting wearing that liuerie Such quicknesse he had in his eyes which were full and blacke as they looked like sparks of Diamonds set in Iet his lipps red his teeth white and such an one as might truly bee called a louely youth She euery way meriting such an one being as delicate as he hansom she was partly in Greene too as her vpper garment white Buskins she had the short sleeues which she woare vpon her armes and came in sight from her shoulders were also white and of a glistering stuffe a little ruffe she had about her neck from which came stripps which were fastned to the edges of her gowne cut downe equally for length and breadth to make it square the strips were of lace so as the skinne came stealinglie through as if desirous but afraid to bee seene knowing that little ioy would mooue desire to haue more and so shee might bee wooed to show her necke more bare Shee was as curiouslie proportioned as all the Artists could set downe to make excellent Her haire was not so white or yellow as others but of a dainty and loue-like browne shining like gold vpon blacke her eye browes thick and of so braue a compasse threatning that the arrowes which those bowes would shoote were not to be resisted but yeelded to as a Deere shot to the hart falls downe and dyes so they must ouerthrow and conquer her eyes gray and shiâ—ing like the morning in each of which a Venus Starr did rise and dwell her lipps as delicate and redd as if they were angry at him and would haue no other satisfaction but by meeting for shee did loue as much as hee So fine a couple these were as Loue did glory in them and they ioy in him happines beyond all others louing and blessedly being beloued againe When he had finished his song she smild vpon him asking him how he came to be acquainted so perfecty with loues wants or gaines My heart saith he hath so long serued him as that tels me what my Master doth when he conquers when he failes as not being able to subdue your breast he cryes for want of power but martyrs me in fierce reuenge of his vnwinning force Yeeld then deeâ—e Nimph if but in pitty and that pitty will proceede to loue Loue then did speake so liuely in his eyes and made it selfe come forth of such deere lipps as she poore she could not though armd with womans greatest strength resist so good a charme she look'd and blush'd and was about to speakeâ— then cast her eyes vpon the ground but straight look'd vp againe and faine would say I must requite your loue but loath shee was to speake it and yet kind pitty mooued and so at last with pitty loue and Mayden blushing modesty shee said If you proue iust I will yeeld to your loue but bee so since I leaue this habit and the chaâ—test life to liue with you and in a forrest staâ—e Those eyes that first had won her hee cast vp to heauen before which he did vow truth and pure loue then brought them to his blisse beholding her as timerous as louing not knowing what she had done innocent and passionate was betweene those two a delicate vnknowing
Crimson her armes fingers and necke adorn'd with the richest Iewels her buskins were of white laced vp with Rubies her hayre comb'd downe and a Crowne of infinite valew on her head a Scepter in her hand which at the opening of the Tombe she cast downe raysing her selfe a little vp and throwing her armes abroad ready to welcome her heart vnto her as if before gone thence The sudden light to so much darkenesse at the first daseled her eyes but when she recouer'd and saw in stead of Polidorus two strangers she crossed her armes lay downe againe seeming so like a dead body as they were afraid they had but heard a voyce which caused their search but that she had beene dead that spirit which shee once had had guided them to her But soone were they put beyond that amazednes by her speech If said she you be of Polidorus seruants directed by him to bring me his death quickly giue me mine likewise and then most welcome or doe but fauour me so much as to shut me vp againe this is the Throne and Tombe which I must haue and only will enioy The Kings whose hearts were mollified with loue were so tempered to pitty as they were not able to know what to doe but gazed on her who appeard the most peerelesse Tombe their eyes had euer beheld and the strangest they saw shee lay still like her owne monument curiously cut Alas said Amphilanthus what comfort can a victory bring that finds such a conclusion to accompanie it selfe with all A victory cryd shee then raised she her sweete saddest selfe a little on one arme I beseech you both or either said she bee so charitable to tell me the truth they loath to tell her what must bring her death yet still besought and that implor'd with teares they look'd on one another sigh'd and with their eyes intreated each to speake at last braue Amphilanthus as kind as excellent in all other vertues gaue these words Madam said he to obay you whom we must after sue to for a fauour I will discouer that which my soule as for you doth grieue for The Army is ouerthrowne and your beloued Lord who wee haue heard you so much speake ofâ— slaine said shee I see it in your face though you will not in pitty speake it Charitable Sir how am I bound to you but I beseech you add one fauour more vnto your first and then an other as the last to that where is his body Laid said he in the cheife Church among the other Kings by Steriamus owne command It was an noble act of him said shee whom Heauens protect for it mercy in Conquerors being as excellent as their fortunes the last request I le make Sir is this that by your fauours I may bee layd by him since I will not aske to haue him brought to mee I amâ— and was his wife deerely beloued of him and heere for safety and by mine owne petition left by him I was Daughter to a King the vnfortunate Plamergus but my greatest happinesse I euer gloryed in was his true loue lay me then braue Sir with my Lord and only deere Polidorus and thus my deere my soule to thine doth flye Amphilanthus did beseech Selarinus weept to her all would not serue shee stretched her selfe straight out and by curious Art laid her selfe forth fit to be carryed to her buriall dying as if the word dead had kild her excellent griefe and most excellent strength of passion that can bring so resolute and braue an end The Kings then chang'd their discourse from loue to sorrow they stayed by her seeking all meanes to recouer her but finding she was gone and so all hope of life in her they went into the Court where they found the King new risen from Councell and all his Princes and Lords about him He went to meete them but seeing such sorrow in their faces wondred and a little feard but soone he was brought out of that they telling him the cause and sad aduenture Then he sent for the Guard who had kept the late King Polidorus of whom he vnderstood how he with teares intreated to be laid in a Tombe made by himselfe in the Orchard but they though he besought them to goe to the Conqueror as he calld Steriamus and beseech that honor from hiÌ„m to performe a vow which hee had made they vnwilling to busie themselues fearing to distast the King had neuer let his last request be knowne some said they thought his wounds and paines of them had made him raue others that being dead what matter was it where his body lay comparing him vnto himselfe who being gone said he what care I where my body is bestowed But these things Steriamus liked not being so infinitely offended with themâ— as had it beene a fault they might haue dyed for they had surely payd their liues for such neglect but not ascending to that height he banished them hating neglect to any creature dying imagining his soule that dyes vnsatisfied must part with trouble from the body and for that was grieued and this Iustice did he vnto loue for which loue must be iust to him Then made he Proclamation for their banishment and straight himselfe went with the whole assembly of Kings and Princes fetching her and went as the cheife mourner with her weeping to her graue the other Kings did carry her and were as they thought honourd with the waight of such worth and constancy she seeming on their shoulders like her Efâ—gie carryed to her owne Funerall The Tombe was graced that night with her lying on it the next morning with solemne state opened and she layd by her Lord this noble act did Steriamus as the first in Albania the beginning to his famous life This being past and a Commander left in that towne which was the chiefe seate of the Kings of those parts and from whence all the Auncesters tooke their claime the new and rightfull King marched againe towards the third king guided by his new seruants and followed with many great men of Albania who like the world ranne with the streame of Fortune and left the ouerthrowne party as soone as it was made miserable with that knowledge Antissius had had his time for leading Leaâ—drus now desired to haue the next it was granted him and so they marched Amphilanthus now in the head of his owne troups Steriamus hauing a Guard of them next his person as their Country woman guarded his heaâ—t safe from hurt or change the Albanians next to them which were in number that went forth with him after the two victories as many as were lost so the Army was of the same bignesse as when it came into Albania Perissus after hee had left Neraena in all her rages for his neglect yet saluing it as desirous to deceiue her selfe with saying that the danger hee found him selfe in of change to his first and only loue made him for feare leaue her not being able
with such ioy as her heart did like the waues swell her colour came into her face and she was so surprized with content as she could not tell what to say vnto him at last she remembred that she was not alone but that she must consider all eyes were not her seruants she corrected herselfe yet could not blame that passion for so deseruing a cause My deere said she I cannot hide my happines nor am I sorry for it since it is for thee I suffer this vnlesse that holding it so deere I may grudge any should partake of it Yet calling her sences more about her to avoyd suspition she demanded how Parselius Rosindy and Philarchos did and Amphilanthus said she I hope also doth well That came out so sweetely and louingly as one might iudge shee asked for the rest for his sake because she would name him or named him last as more to sticke in memory Orilena was so desirous to know how her Philarchos did as shee nere heeded how Pamphilia carried her selfe Surpassing passion excellent still gouerne how delicate is thy force How happie thy rule that makes such excellent women thy subiects made so by thy gouernment instructed by thy skill taught by thy learning and indeed made by thee Bee thou still and worthily adored and this Pamphilia doth agree to excellent Queene the true paterne of excellent affection and affections truth Shee then called the Messenger and hauing called her Spirits to her asked particularly of the estate of Albania Hee related the whole discourse as instructed to set forth his Lord to his owne loue shee needed not much inuiting to that banquet this discourse fed her day and night They talked of the warres and of the braue Champions whose honours were neuer greater then when extolled by her At last to Morea they came the King and Queene comming â—wo dayes iourney to meete her the most perfect Queene her Cosin â—oying in her sight as in heauenly happinesse for so she held her Deare Great ioy was made for her comming and still augmentations of that by â—he newes from the Army euer bringing good Vrania reioyced and Philistella was ouercome with content sweete Selarina was as glad as any but her passions were moderate and discreetelie held themselues within yet shee would finely though in shew carelessely inquire how Antissius prospered The other Ladies would smile at it and someâ—imes to make sport so pretily anger her as was delightfull pastime eueâ—y one enuious to haue each others passions knowne not doubting but â—heir owne were equally discouered iealous onely of each others power â—or being better able to conceale their flames then themselues here did Loue truly and royally triumph Pamphilia gotten alone looked as often on the token as her hearts eyes looked on the sender it was his picture shee kissed it shee laid it â—nd wore it continually in her breast carefull shee was least her Chamber-maide might see it because it was more then her reseruednesse did warrant yet rather had shee all should know and see it then bee one minute hindred from the enioying it so neare My deare selfe would â—hee say what happinesse find I in thee how am I blessed alone in â—hee and aboue all by thee Deerer part of my soule take the other â—o thee pure loue calles thee to acceptance and thou doest I hope take what I so firmely giue thee What shall I say thou sayst thou wilt not â—ee vngratefull I assure my selfe of that and blame my selfe extremely â—f I said any thing might make thee thinke I doubted thee thou knowest I neuer vrged so much as by question to know if thou diddest loue mee I â—aw it what needed I to aske much lesse to feare No sweetest loue I loue â—oo much to mistrust and loue thee more then to demaund assurance which needes not where such confidence remaines nor is fit since if man-like â—hou shouldest once liue to change thy change would grieue my heart but kill my soule to know thou wert both changing and forsworne falsehood were double here and single euen enough to murder me but those deare eyes assure mee those lippes swell in anger I should thus dispute then and now dearest take mine vnto thine which with whispering let my breath say I doe long onely to see them moue againe and tell mee of thy loue soules comfort how I see in my soule spirit-like cleare and bodilesse from corruption gouerne and command like loue a thing adored and reuerenced but not seene except to louers so art thou to me my spirit and my All. While she was thus in loues best clothes apparreld the brauest of Ladies of her time came to her finding her in her ancient loâ—ing walk she met her with ioy and respect knowing her so worthy as she was onely fit to bee mother to such a sonne who alone deserued so matchlesse a mother To her shee went who in her armes entertained her that humbly tooke her fauour with a low reuerence which loue made her yeeld her No time was lost betweene them for each minute was fild with store of wit which passed betweene them as grounds are with shadowes where people walke and the longer they discoursed still grew as much more excellent as they to nightward seeme longer Among other speech the Queene of Naples asked Pamphilia what shee heard of the warres in Albania Shee discoursed it all vnto her but the last busines seemd the strangest vnusuallest said she although Polidorus his fortune in his wiues affection was rare the discourse was this Nicholarus being one of the Kings of Albania as they falsely termed themselues a Gentleman indued with all vertuous parts of learning courage and in truth al that could be required in a braue man yet was encountred with a stronger enemy then his iudgement could resist which was loue and loue of one who for his misery loued another Nicholarus came oft where she was oft shewed his affection the other came with him as if to glory in his mastery or to enioy with triumph what was refused this King as a prisoner led is a more glorious spectacle then to know he is in a Tower so are inioyings before refused more happy and prized then if by stealth or kept in priâ—ate though loue can bee held as deare and best The poore Prince hauing a Scarfe by cunning loue throwne ouer his eyes neuer misdoubted any thing still louing and cherishing him more then any because he saw she respected him Once to her house he came where they were entertained as their places and dignities required but the louer as loue commanded The Prince or King or what you will call him because in his Neighbours Countrie watched as hee thought an opportunitie and in the morning when they were to meete the other Kings who were neare to that place assembled about an especiall businesse of hunting her husband louing that sport wel was soonest vp and called the King hee employed him in some other
me leaue me smarting affliction scourge to loyall hearts yet leaue you hold me being left by him who onely holds my loue Thus passed I part of the night the rest in an exercise mine vndoer taught mee putting my thoâ—ghts in some kind of measure which else were measurelesse this was Poetry a thing hee was most excellent in That night and many more were ended in that manner till at last taking a resolution which was made by necessity I came abroad againe meeting at my fathers chamber one day with my still deâ—re though forsaken He wished me much ioy I told him hee might best wiâ—h it hauing caused so much sorrow to me hee told mee my chosen loue hee hoped would bring content vnto mee Then had you been more kind and true said I. Treborius is the man must hold your affection said he The Forrest Heire cryd I hath made you change and mee forsaken liuing thus vnhappily made free Free said hee and betrothed Pardon mee my Lord said I I neither am nor will bee till I wed Will you begin said hee to vse that vice you euer till now contemned dissembling a thing protested against by your vertue It is that thing I most abhorre answered I but if I would vse it my faith should hinder it from you Heauen then beare witnesse of my wrong cryd hee and pitie mine said I. With this the company came about vs so as for that time wee said no more then did hee seeke meanes how to regaine my affection which he feared was lost to him while alas my labour was how to couer that which so truly was his as I doubted my selfe for being a safe keeper of it from him determining all chastitie in loue not so much as entertaining his outwaâ—d complements farther then ciuilitie commanded Treborius followed his sute my father vrged mee and I cast away by fortune threw my fortunes at his feete to bestow them truly then not worth the accepting yet loue in the man made him seeke me and with as much ioy receiue me The time was appointed all our friends and kindred inuited and as a principall guest my lost loue was intreated to come who obayed but his sad demeanor shewed it was no pleasure to him to see me giuen to another if hee were troubled how was I afflicted In the morning before I was quite dressed according to the manner of our Countries libertie the chiefe strangers came into my chamber permitted by custom to see the Bride dressed among the rest or before the rest he came in yet said nothing onely lookes spake for him I was to the soule perplexed and being ready to enter into my miserable estate I went into a great window which had a curtaine ouer it A Lady whom I most respected and so did all those whose happines was to know her worth being for all noble vertues and excellent parts to be admird would not be denied to go with me Befoâ—e her I performd a vowed sacrifice which was of a lock of haire that I had worne constantly many yeares this haire was his though not giuen to me by himselfe but by an ancient seruant of his vnknown to his Lord. The vow was that if euer I should be so vnfortunate as to marry any but himselfe that morning before my marriage to burne it to my losse and loue This next my heart I euer carried and with the losse of that finished my vow that fatall day before the perfectest of women not without teares as since that noble Lady hath told me when with her fauour shee would giue libertie to her selfe to speake with me vnworthy of her iudgement making mee often call my selfe to mind yet I thinke rather to bee resolued of what shee could but coniecture then to renew my torment with memorie of my distresse But this finished the marriage followed what torture was it to mee standing betweene my loue and Treborius when I was to giue my selfe from my loue to him How willingly would I haue turned to the other hand but contrary to my soule I gaue my selfe to him my heart to my first loue Thus more then equally did I deuide my selfe within a short time after I went with my husband to his house wishing neuer more to see any light or company which in some sort I enioyd for one whole yeare but then the King going to see his Country in Progresse my husbands house was found fit in his way so as he lay there and was by him freely and brauely entertained he being as bountifull in his house as any man but this brought further trouble for such a liking the King had to the place as often in the yeare he visited it much his Maiestie was pleased to grace mee I thinke for my friends respect but howsoeuer mine eyes ascended no higher then a subiects loue Many times by the Kings command I was after at the Court once I remember being at the entertainement of the King of Slauonia brother to his Maiestie there was tilting course of field and many such braue exercises but so farre short all the Gallants and the King himselfe being one came of my loues perfectnesse as they seemd but foyles placed to set forth the lusture of his excellence The sports brake vp and the King Queene and Court accompanied the Slauonian King to the Sea who was from thence to take a further voyage with my husband I returned my heart so filled with loue as nothing but it selfe could find biding or entrance there Treborius out of loue to me loued my friends and those he saw I most respected which made me so willing to requite his affection as I studied how to content him euer sauing my first loue perfect to the owner and truly such I found his kindnes as I haue been sorry I had no loue left for him yet could I not in the kindest humour spare him any from the other By the way as we returnd how would the good man praise his person his fashion speech horse-manship conuersation pleasing mirth concluding still he was the only exact piece of man-kind and framed alone without equall and as if hee were made to honour all vertues and they framed to serue him I tooke such ioy in these as still I bore him vp in them seeing in his words the picture of my heart and thoughts liuely drawne he maintained them to content me while I best satisfied seemed to commend his witty descriptions as if they and not the subiect pleased me Thus did I dissemble and thus onely for my loue and with him that loued me yet this may be pardoned if pardon may bee giuen for such a fault since loue did warrant mee and I obayd my Lord. Other times though for it I blamd my selfe because I wrongd his kindnes I would commend his ordinary talke when hee praised rude sports or told the plaine Iests of his Hunts-men yet the best their vocation could afford laugh and bee merry with them but why because oft-times
began againe My Lord said hee yet heare me there is a way whereby you may let her see your loue and yet not speake it your teares thus continually shed your sigh's still breathing out your passions your groanes foretelling death will all truly witnesse your affliction and sue for you pull off these habits vnfit for these passions put on such as I wil prouide for you so well agreeing to your humour as the cloathes and the action shall make her vnable to withstand so much pitty as must breed loue and that loue if you then discreetly gouerne it will procure your happinesse Direct me deere friend said hee and let me enioy her loue and be assured I will make thee see I am not vngratefull Then my Lord said hee you shall put on the habit I will tomorrow morning bring to yonder Groue but be sure you be there before the Sunne appeare least they be there before vs and after follow my aduice so shall you I feare not come to your wishes end but withall you must promise and performe assistance to me Leonius could but with kind teares and straightly embracing him giue him thankes and promise thus they resolued the youth went to the next towne to buy things fit for the Prince while he with sad thoughts vncertaine wishes and wrestlesse passions spent the time till his returne The Sheepheardesse who poore soule before knew but her owne beauty now found anothers to master her I would said she the Beare had deuoured me rather then this torment should perplexe me Why did this Stranger succour me of purpose was he sent to torture mee must I be made a subiect to one I know not and suffer afflictions for one I shall no more behold fie vpon this strange loue which makes me so strangly loue as to affect impossibilities but I see I am but iustly punished for disdaining all the Youths of these parts thinking none worthy of me now I must loue one that knowes me not will no more see mee and surely loues an other Pride it is you haue vndone mee I confesse my fault I sorrow for it yet Venus helpe me Pan our Sheapheard-God assist mee let not one of your seruants nay poore me your seruant thus distressed liue I recall my former scornings I repent my disdaines I accuse my selfe more then you can blame mee O ayd me then Thus she pass'd the night in millions of such like complaints till morning being come she rose and hastely dressing her raysed her flocks before their vsuall time as shee was raised by this vnusuall passion to the plaine she went there awhile she stayed yet rested no where sometimes shee walked a pace as if she would leaue that paine behind her but seeing it so closely follow her lay downe embracing it yet blushing would turne her face on the ground and seeme ashamed of her owne thoughts O Chastity said shee why doe you wholy possesse mee deere Diana take me to thee but then did Venus as in rage increase her flames making her forget all but her affections Then rising to the next tree shee went which was a Willow and of those branches she puld and with them crowned her selfe casting off her strawne hatte her Sun-beame haire falling downe at the full length which with a little fine and naturall curling reched to the small of her leg and the rich thicknesse spread it selfe ouer her shoulders there awhile she stayed grauing some few words in the Barque of the tree agreeing to the paines shee felt and condition of that tree whose softnesse concur'd with the yeelding hearts of loâ—ers but the Fate giuen it to be forsaken and made it to be the Garland for such haplesse creatures Well poore Willow said she thou shalt yet be my companion and I will honour thee though happier folks despise thee then went she into the Groue but as little stayd shee there flying the company she saw there assembled seeking new places as all doe that seeke ease and hope for it by trauell so shee pass'd along the side of one of the little Brooks her eyes still fixed vpon it speaking sometimes at last shee said these words Poore Brooke said shee how like my paines are yours I seeke to flye from the Spring of my sorrowes so fall you from your head how fast sweete Brooke you runne in hope of eafe so fast doe my poore hopes flye from my hart stay turne your course and I shall hope to liue notwill not be you runne and I continue in my paines As she went on sadly bemoning her solitary thoughts she heard as pittifull a voyce vtter these vnperfect ioyn'd words Leonia poore Nimph said it where is thy vowe must Venus make thee change O loue coward loue to steale thus to my heart couldest thou not haue come brauely and contended with me in the Chase or taken me in the time when I did reuile thee and scorne thy power but to set vpon me when I was quiet and safe as I thought treacherously to lye in wait and betray mee when I was vnarm'd naked and without power to resist and more for my shame when I had sworne to Diana what punnishment will that chast Goddesse lay vpon me for this offence But foole why talke I of these poore things which in comparison of my woe are but blossoms I loue and must loue what then I will loue and die in loue then shall that Cruell see written in my heart that murther thus committed vnkind alasse my soule melts as these teares and yet to thee my paines are no more waighed then bubbles my hart weepes blood pitty me then say you do pitty and saue me pitty said the Sheepheardes is that I want what new companion in my woe haue I found heere with that she went towards the place from whence as shee imagined that sad voyce did proceede when as a little from the banke vnder the shade of mirtle trees which made as it were a Cabine of them selues lay a Forrest Nimph her apparrell of colour and fashion like Diana buskins vpon her leggs of white her haire tyd vp only some of the shortest and about the temples curled crowned with Roses Hyacinths she lay with her head toward her who with a soft pace went on till she came iust behinde her then viewing her earnestly her eyes being so full of loue as all louing creatures found a power in them to draw them to her call especially those eyes which were so much hers as they could not stirre but to her will commanding them so as shee could with her looking on them with louing force bring them to her owne and so it now prooued for those eyes which full of teares were seeing themselues in the streame shewing their watry pictures to each other her earnest viewing the Nimph with a naturall humblenesse to hers drew her lookes to her ioy then appear'd in the Nimphes face yet straight was that clowded with sorrow She rose and with a timerous though she
with as much admiration as shee did their Mistris thinking no difference betweene them in beauty saue that the new guests fairenesse seemed more masculine as fitted with her estate yet full of graue modest and seemely bashfulnesse Thus they beheld each other the Shepheards passionately beholding Leonia in memory of her loue and the Nimph amorously gazing on her in her owne passions till the musick a little awaked them making their eares proue traytors to their hearts for letting in any thing to them but loue Loue is a subiect so delightfull and alluring as it not onely winns but commands the very soule to the hearing or writing of it so wholly possessing as it caused this amorous accident and yet will not permit a resting here but proceedes to Amphilanthus and his company who liued in all pleasure outwardly yet fed sometimes with a bare hope as others were and this oft they felt and after learned to know they passing along a prety time without aduenture it was their chance to meete the same proud Queene of Bulgaria whom Rosindy had encountred but vpon fairer termes for she knew Lucenia and she did as she was an excellently wel fashioned woman giue her respect answerable to her heart Amphilanthus beheld her and thought her as faire as she was yet not a woman at least as hee protested to worke wonders on him yet shee doubted not nor was afraid to shew that shee thought he was her seruant if shee pleased but wrong hath been done to that famous and excellent Prince in that kind many times by a noble free fashion hee had which gaue ignorant or bold people liberty to speake of him but to our purpose After they had discoursed some dayes together much intreaty hauing preuaild they obtained her company to the Enchantment the noble Amphilanthus assuring her that the King would not be offended when he should be told with her iourney that shee had taken it vpon his request they came downe still till they were neere the Gulfe of Lepanto where they meant to ship and so to goe for the Rocke but as they were one hot afternoone sitting in a shade a louely sweet creature as those parts yeelded apparelled as that Country fashion was for the better sort to weare passed by them Musalina would not let her goe so but walked to her who with much ciuilitie staid and attended her commands Shee demanded some questions of her shee answered them with sweet and pleasing truth at last good breeding made her know that curtesie was not to be contemned by the greatest wherefore she inuited her and her company to rest them in her house which she said was hard by and though not worthy of them yet better then that place She took her inuitation and went for the rest who straight came and accompanied her to her abiding which was a faire house moated about but strong and hansome Gardens and Orchards within the moate delicate and pleasant a Bote to goe ouer it into dainty Meades Woods and Groues so pleasant this place was and so kind her entertainement as quickly they agreed to her ciuill request which she seeing the day far passed made to them for lying there that night Musick they had of diuers kinds and such mirth possessed them that place hauing euer been blessed with that fortune as few or none could be melancholy in it except the Mistris whom commanding all there appointed that passion wholly to attend her who not naturally but accidentally was the saddest noble Lady in those parts Dance they did and al other things that orderly mirth would permit yet still the Lady walked vp and downe as if her soule were absent and the body guided but by a Deputy who did not so well gouerne Musalina marked it for the braue Queene marked little but her selfe and the glory she tooke in that she asked the cause but with much fine and cunning respect not so finely insinuating her selfe into her but that she found her yet meant not to be too curious wherefore she answered her thus Madam if the cause of my sadnes were worthy to be heard or knowne by you so perfect a Lady I would not bee the delayer of the happinesse to that and my selfe in holding it from you yet some part as all is too long to tire you with all I will say I loued and was beloued I chose and am forsaken I loue and I thinke shall dying say so and do so I liued a while nourished with the bewitching foode of hope but that hath now left me to the opposite partie Despaire despaire the spring of all loue-lost teares and the Tombe of constant louers whither I haste as fast as my ill fortunes can carry me By this they were got a prety way from them and hard by the Moate side where Musalina would lie downe and heare more of her plaining then said she Madam you shall heare some more by that iudge the rest for my lippes shall not speake all though truth of him I dare not call him any thing for his name makes me still loue him and ready to forget all iniuries and that loue will not let me giue him any curst title but I went one day a iourney from his house with a Cosin of his he not being able to goe with me his eyes then fild with water mine as full hearts being equally stored with loue words we had few his being these Farewell my Deare said hee speaking this on my lippes and carry my heart with thee in thy iourney I will said I both keepe iâ— and cherish it doe the like for mine that I leaue with you his eyes â—old me hee would I thanked them with mine and so parted not fearing that which now too strictly holdeth me but since I neuer will trust man that when he will can weepe my soule did at the parting strangely misgiue me that some ill would follow but I guessed not what though I confesse a little while before I had somewhat been touched with care I wil not call it Iealousie though 't was as violent a paine but how did he seek to cleare himselfe and satisfie me I came in once when they two all alone were sitting on a bed shee looked angerly as hauing hindred her and red with fury he I thinke with shame that so I found him yet I went away nor did I challenge him for that though hee did seeke to make mee thinke no huâ—t was meant or harme vnto our loues this made mee more suspect sâ—spition bred more griefe the noblier he stroue to giue mee satisfaction the more I was engaged to belieue and did at last truly repenting as if I had erred and as clearely loued as at first and as feruently Oh what eyes could with freedome looke on him could any heart hould out against the siege of his alluring sweete beguiling loue no 't was impossible all were created to be made his prey and hee too pittifull and so by pitty to receiue and then
all else deserues not one of these teares if false to you let him goe and reioyce you see his imperfections before you were tyed to them yet bee sure you mistake him not or vnmeritingly condemne him for then the falshood will be laid to your charge and his clearenes will make you more blame worthy This I aduise as my selfe would be aduised if in such extremity and this I say to you my dearest Cosin and would say though I knew it were mine owne brother had caused this mischiefe Your brother said Pamphilia if faulty might yet challenge more care from you and testimonie of loue who ought as a sister rather to hide or couer his imperfections So I would to any but to you said Vrania who suffer I perceiue so extreamely for him Pardon me said she I accuse him not farre is it from my heart to blame him which causelesly I should doe You therefore conclude too briefly on my words but for me my onely friend and dearest Cosin this world hath no helpe left for mee in store but a speedy end which all that loue me with me should soone wish it to me yet I must say some thing in loues defence whom you so much condemne that I haue read in all stories and at all times that the wisest brauest and most excellent men haue been louers and are subiect to this passion I grant you that said Vrania but haue you not withall found by iust obseruation that it was a blemish to their other excelling vertues Why sweet Vrania said she what hath loue done to you to make you thus bitter against him do you not happily enioy what you desire are you ambitious to any thing within his authority which hee brings not to your wishes end yet you reuile and despise him who but plaid with you in hurts and cloyes you with his fauours while I tormented with his fury proue not vngrateful I am not vngrateful said Vrania but fortunate I am not his slaue I loue Loue as he should be loued so deare Lady do you and then you will plainly see he is not such a Deity as your Idolatry makes him but a good child well vse flattred an insolent thing comming ouer our harts as children ouer the poore birds they catch before they can flie thinking they master them when indeede it is their want of wings makes their bondage and so deare Cosin it is our want of courage and iudgement makes vs his slaues take heart to your noble and knowing selfe and let him bee as he is now a proud then puling Babe Alasse my friend said she how sorry am I your excelleÌ„t counsell is bestowed on one so little deseruing it as not being able to right it by following it which I am not able to doe but some answere I must make to you I am so wholy his as it is past mistaking the wound being giuen mee deepely by his vnkindnes which martyrs mee not that I am forsaken doe I lament but my true loyall forlorne heart within me bewailes the misfortune it vndergoes by being displaced from that most loued being which was in his breast once cheriâ—ht or flattered there now to returne to this miserable prison my body which is nothing but dispaire Thus you see it is truth and such truth as only shall haue end by my miserable dayes conclusion To leaue him for being false would shew my loue was not for his sake but mine owne that because he loued me I therefore loued him but when hee leaues I can doe so to O no deere Cousen I loued him for himselfe and would haue loued him had hee not loued mee and will loue though he dispise me this is true loue and if not this the contrary should I reioyce for misse of any ill might from trusting or being true to his amisse in such bond had my blessing beene and my cuâ—se the fayling of them or had they hapnedâ— Pamphilia must be of a new composition before she can let such thoughts fall into her constant breast which is a Sanctuary of zealous affection and so well hath loue instructed me as I can neuer leaue my master nor his precepts but still maintaine a vertuous constancy T is pittie said Vrania that euer that fruitlesse thing Constancy was taught you as a vertue since for vertues sake you will loue it as hauing true possession of your soule but vnderstand this vertue hath limits to hold it in being a vertue but thus that it is a vice in them that breake it but those with whom it is broken are by the breach free to leaue or choose againe where more staidnes may be found besides t is a dangerous thing to hold that opinion which in time will proue flat heresie Rise now deere Cousine and if not to receiue yet to giue comfort to the King and Queene who are afflicted excessiuely with your sorrow dissemble not with me for you may see by my discourse I know the roote of your distemper yet this satisfaction I will giue your mind that so secret I will be in my knowledge as I will not speake of it to your selfe if not to serue you with all yet I will euer accuse and blame vnworthy inconstancy To fulfill your desire and obay your counsell asmuch as I can I will rise answered Pamphilia but only to content my Parents and please you else little ioy or pleasure can I take in this world but when you haue me with you you must permit me to complaine vnto my selfe I will neuer trouble any eares but those of mine owne soule with my sorrowes otherwise should I deale vnkindly with mine owne heart come abroad and doe what you will said Vrania nor will I hinder or seeke to alter you from griefe so it be moderated with iudgment expressing in some sorrowing your matchles goodnes and noble disposition Thus did the diuine Vrania againe by her excellent wit conquer hauing brought Perissus from a desolate and sad life to a fortunate and now Pamphilia to let the Court bee happy with seeing her though in sadnes yet a ioy to all harts The Emperour being at Prage Lâ—onius desired leaue to returne to Corinth and thence to carry his beautyfull and beloued Veralinda to her father not doubting but to gaine his consent for their hoped-for marriage and so to bring her bake into Morea against the other marriages where his might make vp one of the blessed number His request was granted and so he tooke his leaue desiring to trauell alone trusting to doe something sit for his birth and bloud to make his meeting more welcome to his friends He parted as hee desired onely one Squire attending him hee pass'd the rest of Germany without aduenture those parts so wrapt in ioy and content as an aduenture durst not appeare for feare of beating but in Bulgaria he had one sufficient to answer for all the rest of his quiet passage Riding through a great Forrest for many daies he met no
and let mee perish in perpetuall accursednesse What shall I say I cannot say I am worthy of thee then should I flatter my selfe and wrong thee I cannot thinke I merit speech for mee yet since thou gracest mee why should any els enuy or grudge my fortune As thou art matchlesse so are thy fauours and I am blessed inriched and enobled with them why then should purblind chance or fond policie hinder me tricks of state as being tricks are to bee condemn'd I am true thou excellent I loyall thou affectionate what Crocodile treason should howle to bewray and destroy our contents weepe not deare eyes with that hee kiss'd the teares and like Nectar dranke them corsiues to see her shed them but cordials as shed for him and hee permitted to take them O my deare life cryed hee teare not my soule with thy sorrow let mee not see thee mourne vnlesse I may with that dye hee still kiss'd her I know not whether more molested with her paine or ioyed with that liberty of kissing shee at last kissing his eyes which likewise accompanied hers in showres My ioy said shee why make you these questions may there be any accident that can hinder our loues our wills and desires 't is true there may but be confident no further then absenting can gaine for neuer shall I bee in heart and soule but yours the least thing that belongs to you is deare to me how infinitely deare then is your selfe mine eyes are not so deare my heart so well belou'd but that you cherish it as is your sight and dearest selfe to me I thinke not of a fortune which is not with you and for you I dreame not but of you I ioy not but in you nor am I ought els but your selfe metamorphosed wholly into you and your loue Then sate they downe by a delicate Fountaine at the side of that walke there they wailed againe there testified their woes in sighes and teares at last cryed shee but if my Father take mee hence will not you forget mee shall not absence worke in you Yes said hee in admiration of thee to think how chast how excellent thou art how happy I was in thy loued sight and so by that see more and more cause alwaies to lament other effects when absence brings to me let ruine follow or come ioyntly with it if roome be found for foule forgetfulnesse let mee of Heauen bee vuremembred thy beauty printed in my heart shall still before my soule call thoughts of loue mistrust not me sweet life vnlesse thou meane to martyr me I can loue none I nere lou'd any or ere will liue to think so shamefull detestable a thought as change in loue procures no I was borne iust I am iust and will dye iust Shee wrung his hand and these am I cryed shee they then embraced with which the Mother came vnto them who seem'd like a great showre in haruest grieuous to their couetous desires of being by themselues the Moone shin'd so as all things appear'd as cleare as in the day They were in innocence asham'd to bee heard and found alone yet loue made them onely desire that affection in a Mother made teares to fall for feare and loue for him respect vnto the other as childe of him she most loued made her weepe also for her both brought passions as for both shee suffer'd shee could not speake her breath was stopped and shee was choaked with kindnesse shee fell vpon their necks as they together kneeled vnto her their eyes did say they faine would speake and they begged for them hers promised will to grant and sorrow to deny all three were in an extasie not knowing what to doe speech failed senses lost their vse and they were like the Images that in resemblance of the substances implored good but dumbe as they were gain'd little and thus did they remaine till hee spake Madam said hee the bringer of me forth the kinde nourisher of me in youth and till this time vndoe not your first worke nor make mee wish I neuer had beene borne which I must doe if I bee hindred from inioying this sweet Lady Mistris of my life You haue tenderly bred me with affection and can bee as tender ouer me still then let my sufferings in loue be as the dangers you sought to preuent and so protect me still I did amisse in beginniug without your knowledge but she loues me Madam that speakes for me and therein am I richer then in Kingdomes if els where she wishes what I seeke and desires what I wish you haue charity to strangers let not your sonne bee a greater stranger to yoâ— his life lies on it and so yours if you doe hold mee but as deare as yoâ— did lately protest I was you haue power and meanes to effect this What can you desire of my Lord that he will not consent to what intreat of her father that he will refuse we both petition both beseech your ayd you may assist and saue vs els let vs faint and perish in dismay The Lady then grew more passionate at his speeches then before the plaine sute confession being deliuered by his own tongue desirous she was to helpe and succour him but assured she was it lay not in her power nor had she vse of speech only teares freely seru'd her so as if one would dreame of the ancient changes one might think she had been instantly ready to be transform'd into a Fountaine her silence gaue the young Lady opportunity who thus discoursed her passions Mother said she to my perfecter selfe disdaine no nor refuse the petition of my heart thus made while that is prostrate to you heare and grant my sute vse the power of loue that no question you haue imployed by your own sufferings iudge mine and for them both command redresse Loue dares not deny you who can and haue in my hearing giuen proofes of his respects due vnto you let him now show what is your â—ure and allow it you but imploy it to our profits seeing thus before you the two purest Louers his power euer touch'd orâ— brought vnder his obedience behold our pains as yours for so they are since ioyntly his and pitty mine as hers bred by your hand like a Lambe till seazed by the wolfe of Loue which though fierce yet kind and sweet are those clawes that hold me fast to him he hath told you your power I can but beseech your fauour and beg it for loue your own Loue 's sake thinke how miserable the death of Louers will be how vnfortunate when caused by a mother a friend to loue A friend to loue cryd the old woman and a mother 'T is true I am both they baue brought my miserie O my children how miserable am I in this I might did not my own guiltines condemne me think my selfe call my selfe your mother but my shame makes my sorrow and your losse must proceed from my infamy
in a solâ—id body appeare beames to her mistrust stumbling on all occasions that might bee harmefull to vs. Elyna then grew sickly what with griefe and this iealosie faint and weake vnable to suffer both the weights of loue and suspition the former the Empresse tooke to be the cause and so told her walking in a Garden and through a hedge spying me told her who was saying she must take phisick There is the Phisitian said shee that best can cure you The sweetest soule blushed guiltinesse and feare seeing her stearne lookes moouing her bloud Her Maiestie seeing that still built vpon the first ground and so suddenly in a fret flung out of the Garden I attented Elyna into her Lodgings where she related this I was sorry and glad at one instant for still this increased assurance of my happines bâ—t being for her trouble I was grieued The Empresse then disgraced her and vsed her with that scorne as her hart greatnes and freenesse could not suffer But what could shee doe remedie she had none her Father demandâ—d the cause troubled that shee had lost her Mistrisses rauour shee could not giue him account without infinite wrong to both the Empresse being besought by her friends who all tooke notice of her fall could gaine but what the rest had that shee was offended and iustly but the cause none should know At last to some Ladies who were mortall enemies to Elyna and her house shee said that the cause was such as out of loue to the honour of her Familie and Blâ—od shee was sorrie and vnwilling to tell it although her owne bacenesse merited no other then publishing for it for would you thinke it said shee all her pride haâ—tinesse scorne of Louers disdaine of Dukes and Princes despising any estate of a lesse man then a King thinking her selfe worthie of the Emperours successor all these I say are fallen and how fallen not slipt or leant aside or crackt that hope might bee of mending but quite sâ—nke vnder the bace burden of loue or lust rather and of whom no better nor other then Tolmulundus my Gentleman Vsher. They though hating Elyna not louing the Empresse belieued her not nor could haue so meane a conceit of her whose worth had increased their dislike ioâ—ned with the succession of their Spleenitike passions answered as after wee came to knowledge prettily well for her but this madded the Empresse when shee saw that friends and enemies and all were for Elyna who when shee heard by these Ladies who instantlie acquainted her with all either for hate to her or her Mistrisse she was afflicted with this more then with any thing crying out O diuelish fortune cannot my miserie bee sufficient to glut her withall but my honour must bee her prey Well yet your Maiestie is happie that I know the true reason and that so much I loue the Bauarian Duke whose safetie I prefâ—rre aboue all other fortunes as I will perish thus in silence rather then to speake to your ruine which is in my hands to draw on yoâ— since so I might harme him Was not this an expression of true loue What greater since what greater wrong can bee then for a great Lady to be Slandred and by so bace a vilany and so much vntruth honor is to noble heaâ—â—es esteemd beyond life so it was by her who dearest of all to me held that so pretious as the touch of it strake so deepe into her as the biting of a Viper taking away all hope of recouerie by present fainting or safety to returne to her for womens honours especially theirs most admired the admiration working against it selfe are so nice to be touched as they are like little Sluses that but opened let in Riuers and Ocâ—â—ns of discourses and so blots neuer to be salued any more then a Floud can be withstood or turned backe This she apprehended and this molested her yet said she to me my Lord all these in this kind are comforts and ioyes to me since for you I suffer rather chusing as she protested iniurie for me then fame without me and that which onely vexed her was that she did not rightly accuse her and say it was I shee loued that said shee had been honour this shame At last shee obtained leaue to leaue the Court and so retired but then though free and brauely liuing yet this was a corsiue to her many came to her at fiâ—st but the report blowne abroad of her loue to mee made all giue ouer suing yet a young Count of Germany and a true Germaine he was in face and fashion would needs make himselfe belieue he loued her and her that hee desired her but hee sâ—ake not and shee would not vnderstand his signes He would gaze on her haue fits of sighings and almost swoundings before her shee would like a charitable creature gaue him Cordials but the true Cordiall Loue she only gaue to me Poore man would shee say what doth make him cosen and hurt himselfe to trouble mee At last shee told a tale before him of himselfe his wooing so dully her scorne and affection to another all in the third parsons but so plainely and finely as he left her to her pleasures The Empresse whose malice grew as her heart filled with rancor for being left by me for her who was more loathsome then plagues to her then to thinke vpon since the robber of her choice hearing how finely she liued enuied that because she was contented plotted al she could at last she told the Duke her father of the loue betweene vs he inraged knowing we could not marry I being contracted in my youth to another flew into such furie as he made the whole Court ring of the noise of his dislike and the iniury he thought he receiued and his whole Family by her dishonoring her selfe and him this which he called dishonour being his owne indeed because hee blazed that which was not but by his owne bawling thought on neuer committed A foule bustle he kept and shrewdly threatned me behind my back but I went to him and satisfied him so far as we parted friends and he grew to his old good opinion of her yet he aduised playing then the Counseller as before the Champion that I should refraine my often coÌ„ming to her which to please him I did because I saw my Elyna desired her father should be pleasâ—d but alas not in that kind for my absence grieued her and molested mee shee pined with loue and griefe grew pale and weake I lamented for it but sâ— farre it grew as she fell sicke I cherished her shee tooke it so I watched with her shee was glad of it as louing to enioy mee â— neuer left her till liâ—e left her which by a cruell Feauer depriued her dainty body of her daintier breath which was the richest treasure and which for my ioy then but eternall sorrow now shee breathed into mee I kissing her as she departed giuing me that and her
fairest Maide in this Kingdome the vnfortunateliest married and vnhappiest wife this Countrey had the most desolate and grieued Widdow for in all estates that euer shee was in if shee had a shew of good shee had substances of ill and mischiefe to succeed In her youth or indeed infancy shee loued a braue Knight who deseru'd all loue and respect but yet hee had a fault as most men haue I was his companion and knew as much of him for some time as any did yet that was a secret and I neuer intruth mistrusted it till I was gone into a retyr'd life and a change growne among vs all being diuided seuerall wayes and scattered like Hayle Shee callâ—d to the Court continued her begun loue hee fell in loue with her and so much as hee raged almost with passion till hee discouer'd it being for a while as hee vowed himselfe neere madnes but as passions are hot and in youth more flaming then afterwards mature iudgement will permit hee grew slacker shee grieu'd lost her content and yet thinking to please him as that being her onely end refrain'd fearing as seeing his dislike and scorne to her his presence hoping to content him with giuing liberty to his new choyce This whether offending or as hee tooke the matter making it seeme an offence shee lost his loue and not onely that but hee made it appeare that hee loath'd her Shee sweet Creature whose heart to him was but as the softest part of his to his new Mistris so grieuously tooke this curst hap as shee melted into griefe as Virgins waxe with the heate of fire will into water and yet thereby the coldnesse of that Element grow hard as frozen by coldnesse So was shee clos'd in cold despaire yet not hardened but with that not with hate or dislike suffering as patiently as a dead body permits handling by any rude standers by shee onely felt paine of loue and into that was metamorphosed All delights shee cast from her all exercises left couer'd her misfortune with the losse of her Husband when as if her loue had continued true shee had in the other losse beene happy but as it fell out a most vnhappy creature shee was and is An ancient Lord old in age and antiquity of honour made loue vnto her shee was not only perplex'd with him but with her friends and Parents hee being infinitely rich but shee finding that her heart as shee cal'd him and as that was subiect to him cal'd it selfe his would not consent shee refus'd and with great ioy that hee lou'd her so well as hee could not thinke of imparting her to any other though sure enough that hee could not hold her long Death being gaping for him After she denied men of all sorts for age and fortune who durst take the boldnesse to sue to her Lately a young Duke of this Countrey made profer of Loue to her but shee not willing to entertaine him would not beleeue hee meant it and so perswaded him out of it yet he lookes after her followes her when hee may meets her where hee can haue opportunity smiles on her seekes to please her in all he may and in some things doth for he neuer speakes to her but by lookes of Loue his company she allowes of out of noblenesse and out of true loue will not heare of his loue An ancient Lord also and a mighty rich man for estate but in yeares seekes her shee will not vnderstand it He sends to her inuites her to his dwellings Shee finds still excuses and neglects ciuilly Hee vowes to finde her out and court her She flyes and takes iourneys vnthought on to shun him and al this is for loue that so she flyes Loue willing to warme her hands at the fire of honour but dares not come neere the loue-fire for feare of scorching while shee burnes in her owne flames neuer any more belou'd woman breath'd nor euer will or can breath so true a louing woman What hath shee left vnexprest to manifest her affection in all kindes life shee hath ventur'd honour lost beauty and all happinesse dead while shee growes old in her truth of loue and hath but that for her owne satisfaction to content her selfe withall and that is riches vnspeakable when in her owne soule shee can say I am iust yet suffer for it as if a fault what is then a vertue when such perfections are errors One pretty tale shee now as you came told me her still beloued friend came into her company by Aduenture hauing with him a deare companion of his newly growne into that league of friendship and brought by him into the same with all his friends This Gentleman seeing her discreet grew into discourse with her she louing all that loued her lou'd euen his Mistris for his sake was well pleas'd with his conuersation and so neâ—re they grew as he spake freely to her and she coufidently to him so much she saw in him as she knew he knew most of her fortune she grudged not his knowledge for a nobler man breathes not as shee sayes except her owne friend and hee must before her haue no Competitor nam'd for worth or any goodnesse though shee suffer for his ill so excellent hee yet appeares to her But this braue Gentleman at last with frâ—edome began to perswade her to leaue her constancie which would but hurt her and continue no other wayâ—s true then truely to say shee had lou'd longer and iustlier then hee but seeing no returne nor hope no longer to bee a slaue when she might beâ— free nor to him who deseru'd so ill from her as if shee lou'd ill so well as to bee bound to it yet did hee neuer name his friend though by discourse said he knew him euer protesting to name none in such kindes Shee only answerd this that so much she lou'd and honour'd truth as shee desir'd shee might liue in that if a fault and grow old with such a vertue whose worthines would giue her youth and eternity in comfort and honor to the world her wrincles by truth would bee closed and shee seeme as faire as euer her palenesse and losse of complexion restor'd by the rarenesse of such a vertue and her Age as by Medeas charmes turn'd to infancy in the cleerenesse and ablenesse of such worth Hee lamented her misfortune shee smil'd to heare him so much mistake and told him 't was her perfection this is the error said he of women and yet not generally doe they erre in this kinde so as I may only say of a woman and of one of the best and therefore the more to be pittied The Florentine did naturally loue strange things and such as could hardly be compass'd wherefore hee had a great desire to see this Lady againe and to court her and so resolu'd to trye his fortune hauing as he thought as much boldnesse and winning power as any man To helpe him on the same talking Knight came againe the next day
three thus free in discourse intreated that hee might be admitted Celina was perswaded by them and so they cald him in then began they againe to talk at last they went to prety playes as chusing of Kings and Queenes the lot fell on Celina who commanded the Venetian to stay no longer in those parts but to goe vnto his friends and in witnesse of his captiuitie to trauell vnarmd till he met them or was forced by iniurie to put them on This was more then sport yet hee obayed and hauing liberty to take his leaue of the Lady hee kissed her hand and departed The last Shepheardesse that so reuiled loue being called Lemnia sigh'd at this parting louing good coÌ„pany or him who had gaind fâ—oÌ„ her a more kind conceit then she had had formerly of mankind as if the spring to the summer of her loue which increased by a strange heat growing in absence to the height of flaming as if the fire of loue were so vniuersal as the warmth like that of the Sun would heat worlds at a time so his force seru'd in absence to scorch nay burne her heart Shee looked after him as long as shee could see him and marking his louing lookes backe cast and sad on Celina she liked pittied and lou'd his manner so him and at last stole in to be a louer before shee was aware a crafty Ladd this Cupid is poore creatures how you are beguiled by him Celina and Derina had enough now to please themselues and vexe her withall yet sometimes and often the latter part fell to them while she pleased her selfe with her passions these three now soundly captiue might daunce the trickes of Loue to the tune of Sorrow Celina loues one whose heart and soule was her friends Lemnia a Prince stranger and louing Celina Derina a braue youth but married to the Forrest Loâ—ds Sister poore soules and the poorest louing thus hopelessely All they could doe in their best humours was to lament absence in the curstest and worst to raile at Loue and their misfortune curse sight hearing beleeuing and all that were assistants instruments or sufferers to these passions but the Venetian hauing as the rest had at first done sworne to obey what euer he was commanded went with sad steps vp the Hill his heart falling faster into despaire then his feet ascended When he came into the Garden hee met the Lady who told him some were with her Lord about businesse therefore intreated him to stay hee obeyed her and being loth to haue his ill known which might be imputed to folly in him to auoyd her question intreated to heare her story which thus shee related My name said shee is Belizia daughter to the Earle Marshall of this Countrey neere allied I am to the greatest of this Land but onely tyed to this Forrest Lord for whose sake I haue forsaken all and liue heere a lonely life with him much my friends and Kindred were displeased withall his meanes being small tâ—ough his honour and worth great which I looked on loued and so to them gaue my heart and had not this misfortue hapned the celebration of my gift had beene perform'd to our onely ioyes this next weeke but now must be deferrd though I trust to be one day happy for all this misery neuer man hath beene so louing nor so constant nor if I may speake for my selfe neuer any woman hath beene so firme and passionate none yet so secret for many yeares I loued before I acknowledged it nay before any thought I could thinke on such a flame yet when discouer'd some remembred I had beene a good friend to his pretty godhead neuer suffering him to be abused when my power could helpe his honours defence One of his Sistâ—rs was the first mistrusted me and telling me of it I denied it but so blushingly and faintly as that was a perfect confession She loued me so well as she was glad of it being sure to haue a perpetuall tye on me by this meanes which though shee might haue assured her selfe of beefore yet Louers loue strictest tyes to bind their loued to them so much indeed wee loued as but the faire Celina I affected her onely and best of woman kinde The ill man you tooke yesterday my friends had rather haue bestowed me on but he was contrary to my heart to like would so I had been to his then had not my deere beene wounded nor hee come to so vntimely an end for this last night before his time for execution by the Lawe appointed hee strangled himselfe in the Prison hauing nothing but his garters to execute his wicked enterprise withall when this Story was thus telling one came vnto the Lady to let her know that many Ladies were come to visit her shee then though vnwillingly tooke leaue of the Venetian whose good and faire behauiour gaue content where euer he did come but he said hee was compell'd by necessity so hee tooke his way first taking leaue of the Lord his Squire carrying his Armes he not being to weare any while hee was in Brittany by his cruell Loues command Hee trauelled till he came to London admiring the brauery and sumptuousnesse of the Citty but most of the Court arriuing iust against a mighty tryumph was to be made in honour of the King and some strange Princes who came of purpose to honour themselues with kissing his hands Nobly and courteously was hee receiued at the Court much was hee peâ—plexed with passion much pittied by all and as much hee was troubled that hee was barred from exercising himselfe in those sports which by reason of his promise to Celina hee could not doe not being able to weare armes while he was in Brittany if not for defence yet at the Ring he ranne and did it so finely as the King and all admir'd him heere hee stayed the conclusion of the tryumphs then remembring his friends and oath he took his leaue taking towards that place where he arriued iust as the Florentine did but when he saw Leurenius in a Court Suit of Willow colour Sattin embrodered with Gold his Armour trust vp carried on a Horse after him What Metamorphosis is here cry'd he Is this Leurenius the braue Venetian Prince and my friend While I was worthy I was so but now am nothing reply'd he but sorrow and despaire What is the cause said he what makes you trauell contrary to our vow vnarm'dâ— Ouercome cryd hee by the power not equallable of a Shepherdesse and by her command to leaue this Countrey and to trauell vnarmed till I met with you hauing heard my story and my former ill fortune she added this to me the worst of ills Brittany said the Duke of Florence hath beene counted the most pleasant delightfull and happiest Countrey in the world being for all bounty of contents a world it selfe nothing missing or wanting to the full plenty of happinesse Yes said Leurenius pitty wants in the heart of Celina and in
euill with a show of good While in faire showes their malice so is spent Hope kill 's the heart and Tyrants shed the blood For Hode deluding brings vs to the pride Of our desires the farther downe to slide 36. HOw well poore heart thou witnesse canst I loue How oft my grief hath made thee shed forth teares Drops of thy dearest blood and how oft feares Borne testimony of the paines I proue What torments hast thou suffer'd while aboue Ioy thou tortâ—r'd wert with racks which longing bears Pinch'd with desires which yet but wishing reares Firme in my faith in constancie to moue Yet is it said that sure loue cannot be Where so small shew of passion is descri'dâ— When thy chiefe paine is that I must it hide From all saue oneâ—y one who should it see For know more passion in my heart doth moue Then in a million that make shew of loue Song 6. YOu happy blessed eyes Which in that ruling place Haue force both to delight and to disgrace Whose light allures and tyes All hearts to your command O looke on me who doe at mercy stand 'T is you that rule my life 'T is you my comforts giue Then let not scorne to me my ending driue Nor let the frownes of strife Haue might to hurt those lights Which while they shine they are true loues delights See but when Night appeares And Sunne hath lost his force How his losse doth all ioy from vs diuorce And when he shines and cleares The Heauens from clowdes of Night How happy then is made our gazing sight But more then Sun's faire light Your beames doe seeme to me Whose sweetest lookes doe tye and yet make free Why should you then so spight Poore me as to destroy The only pleasure that I taste of ioy Shine then O dearest lights With fauour and with loue And let no cause your cause of frownings moue But as the soules delights So blesse my then blest eyes Which vnto you their true affection tyes Then shall the Sunne giue place As to your greater might Yeelding that you doe show more perfect light â—â—en but grant this grace Vnto your Loue-tide slaue To shine on me who to you all faith gaue And when you please to frowne Vse your most killing eyes On them who in vntruth and falshood lies But Deare on me cast downe Sweet lookes for true desire That banish doe all thoughts of faigned fire 37. NIght welcome art thou to my minde distrest Darke heauy sad yet not more sad then I Neuer could'st thou finde fitter company For thine owne humour then I thus opprest If thou beest darke my wrongs still vnredrest Saw neuer light nor smallest blisse can spye If heauy ioy from mee to fast doth hie And care out-goes my hope of quiet rest Then now in friendship ioyne with haplesse me Who am as sad and darke as thou canst be Hating all pleasure or delight of life Silence and griefe with thee I best doe loue And from you three I know I cannot moue Then let vs liue companions without strife 38. WHat pleasure can a banish'd creature haue In all the pastimes that inuented are By wit or learning Absence making warre Against all peace that may a biding craue Can wee delight but in a welcome graue Where we may bury paines and so be farre From loathed company who alwaies iarre Vpon the string of mirth that pastime gaue The knowing part of ioy is deem'd the heart If that be gone what ioy can ioy impart When senslesse is the feeler of our mirth No I am banish'd and no good shall finde But all my fortunes must with mischiefe binde Who but for misery did gaine a birth 39. IF I were giuen to mirth t would be more crosse Thus to be robbed of my chiefest ioy But silently I beare my greatest losse Who 's vs'd to sorrow griefe will not destroy Nor can I as those pleasant wits inioy My owne â—ram'd wordes which I account the drosse Of purer thoughts or reckon them as mosse While they wit-sick themselues to breath imploy Alas thinke I your plenty shewes your want For where most feeling is wordes are more scant Yet pardon me liue and your pleasure take Grudge not if I neglected enuy show 'T is not to you that I dislike doe owe But crost my selfe wish some like me to make 40. IT is not Loue which you poore fooles doe deeme That doth appeare by fond and outward showes Of kissing toying or by swearings gloze O no these are farre off from loues esteeme Alas they are not such that can redeeme Loue lost or winning keepe those chosen blowes Though oft with face and lookes loue ouerthrowes Yet so slight conquest doth not him beseeme 'T is not a shew of sighes or teares can proue Who loues indeed which blasts of faigned loue Increase or dye as fauours from them slide But in the soule true loue in safety lies Guarded by faith which to desert still hies And yet kinde lookes do many blessings hide 41. YOu blessed Starres which doe Heauen 's glory show And at your brightnesse make our eyes admire Yet enuy not though I on earth below Inioy a sight which moues in me more fire I doe confesse such beauty breeds desire You shine and clearest light on vs bestow Yet doth a sight on Earth more warmth inspire Into my louing soule his grace to know Cleare bright and shining as you are is this Light of my ioy fix't stedfast nor will moue His light from me nor I change from his loue But still increase as th' earth of all my blisse His sight giue life vnto my loue-rould eye My loue content because in his loue lies 42. IF euer loue had force in humane brest If euer he could moue in pensiue heart Or if that he such powre could but impart To breed those flames whose heat brings ioyes vnrest Then looke on me I am to these adrest I am the soule that feeles the greatest smart I am that heartlesse Trunck of hearts depart And I that One by loue and griefe opprest None euer felt the truth of loues great misse Of eyes till I depriued was of blisse For had he seene he must haue pitty show'd I should not haue beene made this Stage of woe Where sad Disasters haue their open show O no more pitty he had sure bestow'd Song 7. SOrrow I yeeld and grieue that I did misse Will not thy rage be satisfied with this As sad a Diuell as thee Made me vnhappy be Wilt thou not yet consent to leaue but still Striue how to show thy cursed diuelish skill I mourne and dying am what would you more My soule attends to leaue this cursed shoare Where harmes doe onely flow Which teach me but to know The saddest houres of my lifes vnrest And tyred minutes with griefes hand opprest Yet all this will not pacifie thy spight No nothing can bring ease but my last night Then quickely let it be While I vnhappy see That time so
sparing to grant Louers blisse Will see for time lost there shall no griefe misse Nor let me euer cease from lasting griefe But endlesse let it be without reliefe To winn againe of Loue The sauour I did proone And with my end please him since dying I Haue him offended yet vnwillingly 43. O Dearest eyes the lights and guides of Loue The ioyes of Cupid who himselfe borne blinde To your bright shining doth his tryumphs binde For in your seeing doth his glory moue How happy are those places where you prooue Your heauenly beames which makes the Sun to find Enuy and grudging he so long hath shin'd For your cleare lights to match his beames aboue But now alas your sight is heere forbid And darkenes must these poore lost rooâ—es possesse So be all blessed lights from henâ—â—â—orth hid That this blacke deede of darkenesse haue excesse For why should Heauen affoord least light to those Who for my misery such darkenesse chose 44. HOw fast thou hast st O Spring with sweetest speed To catch thy water which before are runne And of the greater Riuers welcome woone Ere these thy new-borne streames these places feede Yet you doe well lest staying here might breede Dangerous flouds your sweetest bankes t'orerunâ— And yet much better my distresse to shunn Which maks my tears your swiftest course succeed But best you doe when with so hasty flight You fly my ills which now my selfe outgoe Whose broken heart can testifie such woe That so orecharg'd my life-bloud wasteth quite Sweet Spring then keepe your way be neuer spent And my ill dayes or griefes assunder rent 45. GOod now be still and doe not me torment With multitude of questions be at rest And onely let me quarrell with my breast Which stil le ts in new stormes my soule to rent Fye will you still my mischiefes more augment You say I answere crosse I that confest Long since yet must I euer be opprest With your tongue torture which wil ne're be spent Well then I see no way but this will fright That Deuill speech alas I am possâ—st And madd folkes senseles are of wisdomes right The hellish spirit Absence doth arrest All my poore senses to his cruell might Spare me then till I am my selfe and blest 46. LOue thou hast all for now thou hast me made So thine as if for thee I were ordain'd Then take thy conquest nor let me be pain'd More in thy Sunne when I doe seeke thy shade No place for helpe haue I left to inuade That shew'd a face where least ease might be gain'd Yet found I paine increase and but obtain'd That this no way was to haue loue allay'd When hott and thirsty to a Well I came Trusting by that to quench part of my paine But there I was by Loue afresh imbrac'd Drinke I could not but in it I did see My selfe a liuing glasse as well as shee For loue to see himselfe in truely plac'd 47. O Stay mine eyes shed not these fruitlesse teares Since hope is past to win you back againe That treasure which being lost breeds all your paine Cease from this poore betraying of your feares Thinke this too childish is for where griefe reares So high a powre for such a wretched gaine Sighes nor laments should thus be spent in vaine True sorrow neuer outward wailing beares Be rul'd by me keepe all the rest in store Till no roome is that may containe one more Then in that Sea of teares drowne haplesse me And I le prouide such store of sighes as part Shall be enough to breake the strongest heart This done we shall from torments freed be 48. HOw like a fire doth Loue increase in me The longer that it lasts the stronger still The greater purer brighter and doth fill No eye with wonder more then hopes still bee Bred in my breast when fires of Loue are free To vse that part to their best pleasing will And now vnpossible it is to kill The heate so great where Loue his strength doth see Mine eyes can scarce sustaine the flames my heart Doth trust in them my passions to impart And languishingly striue to shew my loue My breath not able is to breath least part Of that increasing fuell of my smart Yet loue I will till I but ashes proue Sonnet LEt griefe as farre be from your dearest breast As I doe wish or in my hands to ease Then should it banish'd be and sweetest rest Be plac'd to giue content by Loue to please Let those disdaines which on your heart doe ceaze Doubly returne to bring her soules vnrest Since true loue will not that belou'd displease Or let least smart to their minds be addrest But oftentimes mistakings be in loue Be they as farre from false accusing right And still truth gouerne with a constant might So shall you only wished pleasures proue And as for me she that shewes you least scorne With all despite and hate be her heart torne Song O Me the time is come to part And with it my life-killing smart Fond Hope leaue me my deare must goe To meete more ioy and I more woe Where still of mirth inioy thy fill One is enough to suffer ill My heart so well to sorrow vs'd can better be by new griefes bruis'd Thou whom the Heauens themselues like made should neuer sit in mourning shade No I alone must mourne and end Who haue a life in griefe to spend My swiftest pace to wailings bent Shewes ioy had but a short time lent To bide in me where woes must dwell And charme me with their cruell spell And yet when they their witchcrafts trye They only make me wish to dye But ere my faith in loue they change In horrid darknesse will I range Song SAy Venus how long haue I lou'd and seru'd you heere Yet all my passions scorn'd or doubted although cleere Alas thinke loue deserueth loue and you haue lou'd Looke on my paines and see if you the like haue prou'd Remember then you are the Goddesse of Desire and that your sacred powre hath touch'd and felt this fire Perswade these flames in me to cease or them redresse in me poore me who stormes of loue haue in excesse My restlesse nights may show for me how much I loâ—e My sighes vnfaignd can witnes what my heart doth proue My saddest lookes doe show the griefe my soule indures Yet all these torments from your hands no helpe procures Command that wayward Childe your Son to grant your right and that his Bow and shafts he â—eeld to your faire sight To you who haue the eyes of ioy the heart of loue And then new hopes may spring that I may pitty moue Let him not triumph that he can both hurt and saue And more bragge that to your selfe a wound he gaue Rule him or what shall I expect of good to see Since he that hurt you he alas may murther mee Song I That am of all most crost Hauing and that had haue lost May with
reason thus complaine Since loue breeds loue and Loues paine That which I did most desire To allay my louing fire I may haue yet now must misse Since another Ruler is Would that I no Ruler had Or the seruice not so bad Then might I with blisse enioy That which now my hopes destroy And that wicked pleasure got Brings with it the sweetest lot I that must not taste the best Fed must starue and restlesse rest Song LOue as well can make abiding In a faithfull Shepheards brest As in Princes whose thoughts sliding Like swift Riuers neuer rest Change to their minds is best feeding To a Shepheard all his care Who when his Loue is exceeding Thinks his faith his richest fare Beauty but a slight inuiting Cannot stirre his heart to change Constancye his chiefe delighting Striues to flee from fant'sies strange Fairnesse to him is no pleasure If in other then his loue Nor can esâ—eeme that a treasure Which in her smiles doth not moue This a Shepheard once confessed Who lou'd well but was not lou'd Though with scorne griefe oppressed could not yet to change be mou'd But himselfe he thus contented While in loue he was accurâ—t This hard hap he not repented Since best Louers speed the worst Song DEarest if I by my deseruing May maintaine in your thoughts my loue Let me it still enioy Nor faith destroy But pitty Loue where it doth moue Let no other new Loue inuite you To leaue me who so long haue serud Nor let your power decline But purely shine On me who haue all truth preseru'd Or had you once found my heart straying Then would not I accuse your change But being constant still It needs must kill One whose soule knowes not how to range Yet may you Loues sweet smiles recouer Since all loue is not yet quite lost But tempt not Loue too long Lest so great wrong Make him thinke he is too much crost Song FAirest and still truest eyes Can you the lights be and the spies Of my desires Can you shine cleare for Loues delight And yet the breeders be of spight And Iealous fires Marke what lookes doe you behold Such as by Iealonsie are told They want your Loue. See how they sparckle in distrust Which by a heate of thoughts vniust In them doe mooue Learne to guide your course by Art Change your eyes into your heart And patient be Till fruitlesse Ielousie giue leaue By safest absence to receiue What you would see Then let Loue his triumph haue And Suspition such a graue As not to mooue While wished freedome brings that blisse That you enioy what all ioy is Happy to Loue. Sonnet I. IN night yet may we see some kinde of light When as the Moone doth please to shew her face And in the Sunns roome yeelds her light and grace Which otherwise must suffer dullest night So are my fortunes barrâ—d from true delight Cold and vncertaine like to this strange place Decreasing changing in an instant space And euen at full of ioy turnd to despight Iustly on Fortune was bestowd the Wheele Whose fauours fickle and vnconstant reele Drunke with delight of change and sudden paine Where pleasure hath no setled place of stay But turning still for our best hopes decay And this alas we louers often gaine 2. LOue like a Iugler comes to play his prize And all mindes draw his wonders to admire To see how cunningly he wanting eyes Can yet deceiue the best sight of desire The wanton Childe how he can faine his fire So prettily as none sees his disguise How finely doe his trickes while we fooles hire The badge and office of his tyrannies For in the ende such Iugling he doth make As he our hearts instead of eyes doth take For men can onely by their slights abuseâ— The sight with nimble and delightfull skill But if he play his gaine is our lost will Yet Child-like we cannot his sports refuse 3. MOst blessed night the happy time for Loue The shade for Louers and their Loues delight The raigne of Loue for seruants free from spight The hopefull seasons for ioyes sports to mooue Now hast thou made thy glory higher prooue Then did the God whose pleasant Reede did smite All Argus eyes into a death-like night Till they were safe that none could Loue reprooue Now thou hast cloasd those eyes from prying sight That nourish Iealousie more then ioyeâ— right While vaine Suspition fosters their mistrust Making sweet sleepe to master all suspect Which els their priuate feares would not neglect But would embrace both blinded and vniust 4. CRuell Suspition O! be now at rest Let daily torments bring to thee some stay Alas make not my ill thy ease-full pray Nor giue loose raines to Rage when Loue 's opprest I am by care sufficiently distrest No Racke can stretch my heart more nor a way Can I finde out for least content to lay One happy foot of ioy one step that 's blest But to my end thou fly'st with greedy eye Seeking to bring griefe by base Iealousie O in how strange a Cage am I kept in No little signe of fauour can I prooue But must be way'd and turn'd to wronging loue And with each humour must my state begin 5. HOw many nights haue I with paine endurd Which as so many Ages I esteem'd Since my mâ—sfortune yet no whit redeem'd But rather faster ty'de to griefe assur'd How many houres haue my sad thoughts endur'd Of killing paines yet is it not esteem'd By cruell Loue who might haue these redeemd And all these yeeres of houres to ioy assur'd But fond Childe had he had a care to saue As first to conquer this my pleasures graue Had not beene now to testifie my woe I might haue beene an Image of delight As now a Tombe for sad misfortunes spight Which Loue vnkindly for reward doth show 6. MY paine still smother'd in my grieued brest Seekes for some ease yet cannot passage finde To be dischargd of this vnwelcome guest When most I striue more fast his burthens binde Like to a Ship on Goodwins cast by winde The more shee striue more deepe in Sand is prest Till she be lost so am I in this kind Sunck and deuour'd and swallow'd by vnrest Lost shipwrackt spoyld debar'd of smallest hope Nothing of pleasure left saue thoughts haue scopeâ— Which wander may goe then my thoughts and cry Hope 's perish'd Loue tempest-beaten Ioy lost Killing Despaire hath all these blessings crost Yet Faith still cries Loue will not falsifie 7. AN end fond Ielousie alas I know Thy hiddenest and thy most secret Art Thou canst no new inuention frame but part I haue already seene and felt with woe All thy dissemblings which by faigned showe Wonne my beliefe while truth did rule my heart I with glad minde embrac'd and deemd my smart The spring of ioy whose streames with blisse should slow I thought excuses had beene reasons true And that no falshood could of thee ensue So soone beliefe in
This grieuefull spectacle did much amaze the sweet and tender-hearted Shepherdesse especially when she perceiued as she might by the helpe of the candle the teares which distilled from his eyes who seeming the image of death yet had this signe of worldly sorrow the drops falling in that abundance as if there were a kind strife among them to rid their Master first of that burdenous carriage or else meaning to make a floud and so drowne their wofull Patient in his owne sorrow who yet lay still but then fetching a deepe groane from the profoundest part of his soule he said Miserable Perissus canst thou thus liue knowing she that gaue thee life is gone Gone O me and with her all my ioy departed Wilt thou vnblessed creature lie here complaining for her death and know she died for thee Let truth and shame make thee doe something worthy of such a Loue ending thy daies like thy selfe and one fit to be her Seruant But that I must not doe then thus remaine and foster stormes still to torment thy wretched soule withall since all are little and too too little for such a losse O deere Limena louing Limena worthy Limena and more rare constant Limena perfections delicately faign'd to be in women were verified in thee was such worthinesse framed onely to be wondred at by the best but giuen as a prey to base and vnworthy iealousie When were all worthy parts ioyn'd in one but in thee my best Limena yet all these growne subiect to a creature ignorant of all but ill like vnto a Foole who in a darke Caue that hath but one way to get out hauing a candle but not the vnderstanding what good it doth him puts it out this ignorant wretch not being able to comprehend thy vertues did so by thee in thy murder putting out the worlds light and mens admiration Limena Limena O my Limena With that he fell from complaining into such a passion as weeping and crying were neuer in so wofull a perfection as now in him which brought as deserued a compassion from the excellent Shepherdesse who already had her heart so tempered with griefe as that it was apt to take any impression that it would come to seale withall Yet taking a braue courage to her shee stept vnto him kneeling downe by his side and gently pulling him by the arme she thus spake Sir said she hauing heard some part of your sorrowes they haue not only made me truly pitie you but wonder at you since if you haue lost so great a treasure you should not lie thus leauing her and your loue vnreuenged suffering her murderers to liue while you lie here complaining and if such perfections be dead in her why make you not the Phoenix of your deeds liue againe as to new life rais'd out of the reuenge you should take on them then were her end satisfied and you deseruedly accounted worthie of her fauour if shee were so worthie as you say If shee were O God cri'd out Perissus what diuelish spirit art thou that thus dost come to torture me But now I see you are a woman and therefore not much to be marked and lesse resisted but if you know charitie I pray now practise it and leaue me who am afflicted sufficiently without your companie or if you will stay discourse not to me Neither of these will I doe said she If you be then said he some furie of purpose sent to vex me vse your force to the vttermost in martyring me for neuer was there a fitter subiect then the heart of poore Perissus is I am no furie repli'd the diuine Vrania nor hither come to trouble you but by accident lighted on this place my cruell hap being such as onely the like can giue me content while the solitarinesse of this like caue might giue me quiet though not ease seeking for such a one I happened hither and this is the true cause of my being here though now I would vse it to a better end if I might Wherefore fauour me with the knowledge of your griefe which heard it may be I shall giue you some counsell and comfort in your sorrow Cursed may I bee cri'd he if euer I take comfort hauing such cause of mourning but because you are or seeme to be afflicted I will not refuse to satisfie your demaund but tell you the saddest storie that euer was rehearsed by dying man to liuing woman and such a one as I feare will fasten too much sadnesse in you yet should I denie it I were too blame being so well knowne to these senselesse places as were they sensible of sorrow they would condole or else amased at such crueltie stand dumbe as they doe to find that man should be so inhumane Then faire Shepherdesse heare my selfe say my name is Perissus Nephew I am to the King of Sicilie a place fruitfull and plentifull of all things onely niggardly of good nature to a great man in that Country whom I am sure you haue heard me blame in my complaints Heire I am as yet to this King mine Vncle and truly may I say so for a more vnfortunate Prince neuer liued so as I inherit his crosses howsoeuer I shall his estate There was in this Country as the only blessing it enioyed a Lady or rather a Goddesse for incomparable beautie and maâ—chles vertues called Limena daughter to a Duke but Princesse of all hearâ—s this starre comming to the Court to honour it with such light it was in that my blessed destinie to see her and be made her seruant or better to say a slaue to her perfections thus long was I happie but now begins the tragedie for warres falling out betweene the people and the Gentlemen the King was by the people imagining he tooke the other part brought into some danger and so great an one as rudenes ioynd with ill nature could bring him into being at last besieged in a strong hold of his all of vs his seruants and gentle subiects striuing for his good and safetie in this time nothing appearing but danger and but wise force to preserue mens liues and estates vnto them euery one taking the best meanes to attaine vnto their good desires The Duke father to the best and truest beauty would yet bestow that vpon a great Lord in the Country truly for powerfull command and meanes a fit match for any but the wonder of women since none could without much flatterie to himselfe thinke he might aspire to the blessing of being accounted worthie to be her seruant much lesse her husband Shee seeing it was her fathers will esteeming obedience beyond all passions how worthily â—oeuer suffered most dutifully though vnwillingly said she would obey her tongue faintly deliuering what her heart so much detested loathing almost it selfe for consenting in shew to that which was most contrarie to it selfe yet thus it was concluded and with as much speed as any man would make to an eternall happines While of this and so my
they come to enioy their right they may know the better to command hauing so well learn'd to obey and serue And most delicate Shepherdes do you I pray accept of this young maid for your friend and companion since if you bee the King of Naples daughter or any other Princes you need not scorne the companie of the Albanian Kings daughter Parselius taking the old King in his armâ—s And is it my good fortune most famous King of Albania said hee to haue it in my power to serue so excellent a Prince Doubt not then but I will with all faithfull loue and diligence as soone as I haue concluded this â—earch with meeting my dearest friend in Italie goe into Morea and from thence carry such forces as shall with my other friends I will ioyne with me restore you to your right and pull downe that Macedonian Vsurper were it but for wronging you But since I haue so faire an occasion to reuenge such iniuries offered so vertuous a Prince as your selfe in keeping a kingdome and vsurping another from his rightfull Queene I am doubly bound your sonnes I accept to bee my companions and as brothers to me will I be carefull of them the like did Vrania promise for the young Lady Then the old king before ouer-charged with sorrow was now so rauished with ioy as not being able to sustaine bursting into flouds of kind teares and his soule turn'd into a passion of ioy vnsupportable being onely able to kisse the Prince Parselius and Vrania imbracing blessing and kissing his children giuing them charge faithfully and louingly to obserueâ— and loue that braue Prince and sweet Shepherdes like a child for quiet ending gaue vp the ghost in their armes he best did loue Great sorrow was made among them for his death but then growing almost night Vrania for that time went home leauing the three to attend the Kings body till the next morning directing Parselius to the sad abiding of the perplexed Perissus promising to come to the Caue by Sunne rising to dispose of all things Vrania being come home little meate contented her making haste to her lodging that there shee might discourse with her selfe of all her afflictions priuately and freely throwing her selfe on her bed she thus beganne Alas Vrania how doth miserie loue thee that thus makes thee continuallie her companion What is this new paine thou feel'st What passion is this thy heart doth entertaine I haue heard my imagined Father and many more talke of a thing called Loue and describe it to be a delightfull paine a sought and cherish'd torment yet I hope this is not that for â—laue am I enough already to sorrow no neede haue I then to be oppressed with passion Passion O passion yet thou rulest Me. Ignorant creature to loue a stranger and a Prince what hope hast thou that because thou art not knowne thou shouldst be knowne to loue in the best place I had rather yet offend so then in a meane choice since if I be daughter of Italy I chose but in mine owne ranke if meaner ambition is more noble then basenesse Well then if I doe loue my onely fault is in too soone louing but neither in loue nor choice Loue pleade for me since if I offend It is by thy power and my faults must as made be salu'd by thee I confesse I am wonne and lost if thou braue Prince pittie not and saue me Sweet Chastity how did I loue and honor thee Nay almost vowe my selfe vnto thee but I haue fail'd Loue is the more powerfull God and I was borne his subiect with that she rose vp and went to the window to see if it were day neuer knowing before what it was to wish for any thing except the knowledge of her selfe now longs for day watches the houres deemes euery minute a yeare and euery houre an Age till she againe inioy'd Parselius sight who all that night tooke as little rest hope loue and feare so vexing him and tyrannizing ouer him as sleepe durst not close nor seaze his eyes to any the least slumber all his content being in thinking on Vrania wishing from his soule shee were the lost Princesse that then they might happily inioy which wish by loue was chid since loue was able in him to make her great enough and those wishes were but to adde to that which ought to be so perfect as it selfe should of it selfe be sufficient to make happines which is the greatest greatnes Then did he resolue whatsoeuer she was to make her his Wife his Father Country Friend and all must loue Vrania Thus all must yeeld to her or lose him already yeelded Hee whose youth and manlike conuersation scorn'd the poore name and power of loue is now become his Bondman cries out on nothing but Vrania thinks of nothing hopes for nothing but the gaine of her perfections to his loue accusing this night for spitefully being longer then any other that euer he knew affection and desire making it appeare tedious vnto him and why because it kept Vrania from him O would he say how happy wert thou Parselius to land on this shore where thou hast gaind the Goddesse of the earth to bee thy Mistris Vrania to be thy loue But then would a louers feare take him making him tremblingly sigh and say But if she should not loue again wretch of all men what would become of thee Courage then ioyning with hope would bring him from that sad despaire giuing him this comfort Yet sure said he her heart was not fram'd of so excellent temper her face of such beauty and her selfe wholly made in perfectnesse to haue cruelty lodged in her No shee was made for loue then she must loue and if so pity will claime some part and if any or to any who more deserues it then my selfe who most affecteth herâ— With that he went to the mouth of the rocke from whence he might discouerall the plaines carefully and louingly beholding them You blessed Plaines said he which daily haue that treasure which the rest of the world wanting confesseth sence of pouerty dull earth ignorant of your riches neither knowing nor caring how to glory sufficiently for bearing and continually touching such perfections why dost not thou with all excellencies striue to delight her sending forth soft and tender grasse mixt with sweetest flowers when she will grace thee suffering thee to kisse her feete as shee doth tread on thee but when she lies on thee dost thou not then make thy selfe delicate and change thy hardnes to daintines and softnes Happy most happy in her sweet weight and yet when she doth leaue thee do not the flowers vade and grasse die for her departure Then hee perceiu'd her comming a farre off downe the plaines her flocke some feeding but most leaping and want only playing before her And well may you doe this most lucky flocke said hee hauing such a Commandresse and so faire a Guardian well doth ioy become you shewing you
spirits vse but one I best remember being his owne story the place wherein we then were producing it it was this and in truth worthy of note Whatsoeuer I now faire Knight said he appeare to be know I am in birth quite contrary poore and alone now once a Duke and one of the mightiest richest ancientest and sometimes happiest of these parts this countrie wherein you are being mine onely subiect in homage to the famous King of Morea my education had been most in the court my time some spent there some time abroad but weary at last of either as a hound wil be who neuer so wel louing hunting wil at last take rest so did I lie downe at mine owne home determining to end my daies in quiet plenteousnes taking my own delight to adde vnto which I brought with me a vertuous Lady and such a one as might for goodnes equal any of her ranke and truly not vnbeautifull yet so much was I besotted on a young man whom I had vnfortunatly chosen for my companion as at last all delights pastimes were to me tedious and lothsome if not liking or begun by him Nay my wiues company in respect of his was vnpleasing to me Long time this continued which continuance made me issue-les wherfore I made him my heire giuing him all the present honor I could in my own power or by the fauor of the king who euer grac'd me much procure him But he the son of wickednes though adopted to me esteeming possessioÌ„ far better then reuersioÌ„ gaue place so much to couetousnesse as murder crept into credit to attaine the profit wherefore he practised to make me away my friends and kindred had before left me expecting nothing but my ruine seeing me so bewitch'd with my vndoing The plot was laid and I thus betraide where most I trusted the time being come for the execution the hired man being mine more for iustnesse then his for rewards came vnto me and vpon promise of secresie discouered the truth vnto me making me besides promise to be perswaded by him which was for some time to retire my selfe till a party were made in the Countrey strong enough to pull downe his pride who had gained such power as he was grown more powerfull then my selfe then might I be my selfe and rule in safety I consented to the concealing but neuer could be wonne to thinke of harming him whose vngratitude I beleeu'd sufficiently would one day burden him But how often did I entreat and beseech him to performe his part and satisfie his Master in killing me whose falsenesse and wickednesse more grieu'd me then ten deathes could I haue suffer'd so many yet his honest carâ— ouer-ruled me and I submitted to his Counsel Then tooke he my clothes apparelling me fit for the change of my fortune He poore man returning to my Castle for so till then it was credibly reporting that I going to swimme as often I did in this sweet Riuer which runnes along this Valley I was drown'd wee being then in that place and indeed the sweetest in the world This in some kind was true said he for drown'd I was in sorrow and teares which could they haue made a streame for bignesse answerable to their swift falling had questionlesse made his fram'd report true This being told the Duke as then by my imagined death imaginarily he was did make shew of insupportable griefe being so possest as he seemed dispossed of senses furiously and suddenly stabbing the good man who for my life lost his owne This was counted a passionate act Loue transporting him so much beyond himselfe as he was not able to resist his owne furie while his deuillish cunning did both set a Glosse vpon his brutishnesse and keepe his Treason vnreueal'd the poore soule falling dead at his feet while he said take this for thy detested newes bringing Then did he make a solemne funeral for my dead mind though liuing bodie He apparrell'd himselfe and his Court in mourning which gaue much content to the people who loued me while indeed their black was but the true picture of his inward foulenes My wife did presently retire to a house her selfe had built but when he had as he thought sufficiently plaid with the people he began to exercise his authority beginning with my wife picking a quarrell to bereaue her of her estate which he in short time did turning her to seek her fortune Patiently she tooke it hauing yet some Iewels left her she bought a little house in a thick and desart wood where she was not long before I came vnto her discouering my selfe to both our equall passions of ioy and sorrow Priuatly we there continued many yeares God in our pouerty giuing vs an vnexpected blessing which was a daughter who grew vp and serued vs for a seruant our meanes would not allow vs though our estates requir'd it Seuenteene yeares we thus concealed liu'd but then as ioies so tortures will haue end The Duke in all pleasure and plenty I in miserie and pouery One day the young Prince accompanied with his most noble companion Amphilanthus who for the honour of Greece was bred with him and many other braue young Nobles who attended them went forth to see a flight at the brooke when after a flight or two the Princes Hawke went out at checke which made them all follow her and so long as at the last for rescue of my afflictions they were brought to my poore abiding which by reason of the farrnesse from the Court and foulnes of the weather a sudden storm then falling they accepted for their lodging which although so meane as could be yet they pleased to like it rather looking into my heart for welcome where they found it then into the meannesse of the place After they had refreshed themselues and discoursed freely with me it pleased my Prince to say that my estate and life agreed not with my conuersation wherefore he would not be denied but needes must know the truth which out of obedience more then desire with heart-tearing griefe I discoursed to him He gaue few words for answer but commanded me the next day with my Wife and Daughter to attend him to the Court which faine I would haue refused foreseeing that which soone after â—ollow'd the destruction of my once most loued friend who though hee had chang'd gratefulnesse to the contrary and loue to hate yet my affection could not so much alter it selfe as to hate where once so earnestly I affected or seeke reuenge on him whose good I euer wished But we obeyed then the sweet young Prince presented me to his Father who instantly called me to minde remembring many aduentures which in our youths We had passed together pittying my fortune as much as he had in younger daies affected me yet glad in some kind to recompence my faithfull seruice to him instantly sent for the Vsurper who by reason of a iourney the King made to see his Realme and shew
being perform'd the Pilot againe began to vse his skil which first had meanes to let him know that so farre they were from the place resolu'd on as in stead of the coast of Italy they were within sight of the Iland of Ciprus this not onely amazed them but much troubled them considering the barbarousnes of the people who there inhabited and their extremity such as of necessity they must land to replenish their wants caused by the rigor of the tempest yet were they come to such a part of the country as there was no harbor or port to ride or land at wherfore they were forst to coast the country night again like an euil spirit possessing them almost all tired and weary with the length and violence of the storme Some were laid down to see if rest would possesse them others falne asleep none enduring it like the excellent Vrania which brought comfort though in sorrow to the louing and noble Parselius neuer shewing feare or trouble incouraging all And yet she did feare but seeing his she dissembled hers in care of not further harming him She I say when all were gone to rest stood as Sentinel but by her owne appointment loue coÌ„manding her soule to take no aduantage of restfull houres which she obediently did sleep neuer but by loues liberty possessing her eies which freedome her passion had not yet allowed her but molesting her patient sweetnes caused her to walke vp and downe in the maze of her trouble The Moone though coldly smiling on her and her loueâ— she perceiued a great fire whereupon she called the company demanding what their opinions were of it they could not giue her a direct answer till being come somewhat neerer they pereeiued it was a Ship was falne a fire in the midst of the Sea and right against it a very good Harbour Pitty and noble compassion straight moued in them so as they haled to the burning Barke to know if there were any by ill fortune in her and if so to succour them but hearing no answer they concluded shee was empty wherfore passing on they landed in the Island which no sooner was done but their former wonder was encreased by the sudden falling a fire of their own Ship which had but deliuerd her self of theÌ„ and then as a Martyr suffer'd for the paine they had in her endur'd But this past admiration brought new sorrow to them considering they were in a strange Country among barbarous people depriu'd of all hope to get thence any more but there to continue at the mercy of vnchristened creatures Parselius wished but stil found himselfe further from succour of any but his fruitles wishes all his tormenting griefe being for Vrania Vrania did as he did iustly requiting his paine for all hers was for him All lamented and pittied Vrania and the dainty Selarina who mildly yet with a more Woman like manner â—uffered these afflictions louing and pittying Vrania being an obligation they were all in their hearts as they found bound vnto Leandrus sorrowed for her and bewail'd the two young Princes whose Father had lost his Kingdome for his loue to his Father which stirred in him a commiserate passion Thus all for others grieued pittie extended so as all were carefull but of themselues most carelesse yet their mutuall care made them all cared for Parselius with a braue courage at last aduised them to goâ— on yet left it to their owne mindes fearing to perswade least harme might after follow grieue feare perswade they did and all distractedly so much they feared and most was for Vrania so much can worth sweetnesse and Beautie worke in noble mindes His aduise was to goe on and this was allowed for what could hee propound that Vrania liked not of And if she consented what spirit could deny Thus on they went but as in a Labyrinth without a thrid till they came within sight of a rare and admirable Pallace It was scituated on a Hill but that Hill formed as if the world would needs raise one place of purpose to build Loues throne vpon all the Country besides humbly plaine to shew the subiection to that powerfull dwelling The Hill whereon this Pallace stood was iust as big as to hold the House three sides of the Hill made into delicate Gaâ—dens and Orchards the further side was a fine and stately Wood. This sumptuous House was square set all vpon Pillars of blacke Marble the ground paued with the same Euery one of those pillars presenting the liuely Image as perfectly as caruing could demonstrat of braue and mighty men and sweet and delicate Ladies such as had been conquer'd by loues power but placed there as still to mainetaine and vphold the honour and House of Loue. Comming towards it they imagined it some Magicall work for so daintily it appear'd in curiositie as it seem'd as if it hung in the ayre the Trees Fountains and all sweet delicacies being discerned through it The vpper Story had the Gods most fairely and richly appearing in their thrones their proportions such as their powers and quallities are described As Mars in Armes weapons of Warre about him Trophies of his Victories and many demonstrations of his Warre-like God-head Apollo with Musicke Mercurie Saturne and the rest in their kind At the foote of this Hill ranne a pleasant and sweetly passing riuer ouer which was a Bridge on which were three Towres Vpon the first was the Image of Cupid curiously caru'd wiâ—h his Bow bent and Quiuer at his backe but with his right hand pointing to the next Towre on which was a statue of white Marble representing Venus but so richly adornâ—d as it might for rarenesse and exquisitenâ—sse haue beene taken for the Goddesse her selfe and haue causd as strange an affection as the Image did to her maker when he fell in loue with his owne worke Shee was crownd with Mirtle and Pansies in her left hand holding a flaming Heart her right directing to the third Towre before which in all dainty â—iches and rich delicacy was the figure of Constancy holding in her hand the Keyes of the Pallace which shewed that place was not to be open to all but to few possessed with that vertue They all beheld this place with great wonder Parselius resoluing it was some Enchauntment wherefore was the nicer how they proceeded in the entring of it while they were thus in question there came an aged Man with so good a countenance and graue aspect as it strucke reuerence into them to be shewed to him by them He saluted them thus Faire company your beholding this place with so much curiosity and besides your habits makes me know you are strangers therefore fit to let you vnderstand the truth of this braue Building which is dedicated to Loue. Venus whose Priest I am thinking her self in these latter times not so much or much lesse honour'd then in ages past hath built this calling it the throne of Loue. Here is She dayly seru'd by my selfe and others
smart Which cruell Loue doth send into my heart Keepe in thy skin this testament of me Which Loue ingrauen hath with miserie Cutting with griefe the vnresisting part Which would with pleasure soone haue learnd loues art But wounds still curelesse must my rulers bee Thy sap doth weepingly bewray thy paine My heart-blood drops with stormes it doth sustaine Loue sencelesse neither good nor mercy knowes Pitiles I doe wound thee while that I Vnpitied and vnthought on wounded crie Then out-liue me and testifie my woes And on the rootes whereon she had laid her head seruing though hard for a pillow at that time to vphold the richest World of wisdome in her sex she writ this MY thoughts thou hast supported without rest My tyred body here hath laine opprest With loue and feare yet be thou cuer blest Spring prosper last I am alone vnblest Hauing ended it againe laying her sad perfections on the grasse to see if then some rest would haue fauourd her and haue thought trauel had enough disturbed her she presently found passion had not yet allowed time for her quiet wherefore rising and giuing as kind a farwell-looke to the tree as one would doe to a trusty friend she went to the brooke vpon the banke whereof were some fine shadie trees and choice thorne bushes which might as they were mixt obtaine the name of a prety Groue whereinto she went and sitting downe vnder a Willow there anew began her complaints pulling off those branches sometimes putting them on her head but remembring her selfe she quickly threw them off vowing how euer her chance was not to carry the tokens of her losse openly on her browes but rather weare them priuately in her heart Further would she haue proceeded but that she heard behind her a rushing in the bushes Looking backe shee perceiu'd Antissia close by her who hauing noted the sadnesse in the Princesse and her solitary retirednesse imagined by her owne passions the cause must needs bee loue but that imagination growing to beliefe beliefe brought feare feare doubt and doubt the restlesse affliction suspition her excellencies making the assurednes of her no lesse excellent choice so as the more perfect she confest them both to be the more did those perfections make her perfectly iealous This was the reason that shee came thus forth and in as priuate sort as she could that so she might by chance ouer-heare her secret complaints and so though for a certaine vexation bee sure of her most troubled knowledge But herein she was deceiued for although she heard much of her sorow yet got she no assurance for whom the sorrow was neuer in all her extremest sufferings once naming the mouer of her paine which kept her loue in as much secresie as that secretly after brought tormenting paine proceeding from vnhappy ignorance But Pamphilia perceiuing her smiling yet blushing doubting her passions were discouered and her loue betray'd to her Companion she neuerthelesse to make the best of it How came you hither faire Antissia said she I did not thinke this sad place could haue inuited so much happinesse to it as your presence who being happy must make all places partake with you This place said shee hath her blessing already in you the saddest being forc'd to deserued ioy enioying so good fortune as to haue Pamphilia in it But I pray if I may be so bold to aske such a question of you which the confidence of a friend makes me venture vpon why are all these grieuous complaints for neuer heard I greater neither was sorrow euer richlier apparreld then lately you haue drest her If it be for loue tell me who that blessed creature is that doth possesse such a world of treasure as your heart and deny not this to your friend and seruant who will faithfully serue you in that or any other you will impose vpon her though sure in this little paine will serue to win your ease if you will suffer your selfe to haue ease no man breathing that will bee so void of iudgement or can haue power to resist what you in loue might demaund but must bee so farre from denying as hee will without question venture his life to gaine so pretious a prize Your owne worth said Pamphiliâ— makes you thus confident and your happie fortune in meeting an anâ—â—erable affection thus feareles but alas for me I that know worth greatnes nor the truest loue can bring ones desire if destinie haue otherwise appointed can neuer let so much flattring hope blind me with conceit of mine owne deserts which it may be are seene but by my owne eyes as to imagine their merits may gaine my ends No sweet Antissia loue is onely to be gaind by loue equally bestowed the giuer and receiuer reciprocally liberall else it is no loue nor can this be but where affections meete and that we must not all expect nor can it reasonably bee demanded Since how should the power of loue be knowne but by his seuerall vsage of his subiects If all were vs'd alike his iustice must be examinedâ— but be it as it will some must and do suffer yet speake I not this of my self or in confession that I am pinch'd with these tortures for Lord knowes how farre am I from these like vanities then how can I satisfie your louing demand and friendly promise You cannot thus dissemble replied Antissia your owne hand in yonder faire Ash will witnes against you Not so said Pamphilia for many Poets write aswell by imitation as by sence of passion therefore this is no proofe against me It is well said answerd Antissia in your owne defence but I pray why did you but euen now with sighes and teares as I iudged by your voyce blame both loue and absence Many reasons there are to accuse both said Pamphilia but let mee bee so much bound to you as to know the reason of your inquisitiuenes If it were only for my good mee thinks you grow too neere me bare friendship not being able so cunningly to sift one therefore it makes me thinke some other cause moues this care in you if so freely speake it and I will as freely satisfie you Well said Antissia then confesse you loue and I will soone follow with the other It were to small purpose replide Pamphilia to deny it since you haue discouered mee I confesse it and am no whit ashamed of it though grieued by it My curiositie said the other was and is lest it should bee hee whom I affect Alas cride Pamphilia can so base an humour as suspition creepe into so braue a heart as Antissia's and to gaine such power there as to make her mistrust her friend Truly I am sorry for it and would aduise you for honours sake quickly to banish that Deuill from you which otherwise will daily increase new mischiefes I know said Antissia it is the worst of Monsters yet this is no answere to my question T is true said Pamphilia but â— being innocent of it
forgot first to cleere it But I pray Antissia what doe you see in mee that I should loue Amphilanthus more then respectiuely This said she that all perfections hauing ioynd and vnited their strengths to make you wholly excellent it cannot bee but you in all things must manifest it and in iudgement are you not cald to expresse it And if in iudgement wherein can there be more discern'd then in the choice of friend or Loue If so can you chuse other then the most deseruing and then must it not bee the most excellent of men and is not Amphilanthus that most excelling Prince In truth answered Pamphilia I confesse this latter part to be true for assuredly there liues not his equall for all vertues which well might make me if I were such a one as you say to haue that ambition in mee to affect the worthiest but so much perfection I waâ—â— as that part hath faild also in me yet this I will say I loue him as hee merits long conuersation as from our youthes besides our bloud claiming an extraordinary respect You will not deny you are in loue with him then Why should I not said shee I 'm sure I know my owne heart best and truly so farre is it from suffring in this passion as it grieues mee you mistake mee so much but Lord what strange and dangerous thoughts doth this bring into our brests Could any but a Louer haue so troublesome a conceite Why sweet Antissia when did this opinion first possesse you or what gaue you occasion to conceiue it Hath my speech at any time betray'd mee Hath my fashion giuen you cause to suspect it Did I euer enuiously like a Louer seeke to hinder your enioying him Did I vnmannerly presse into your companies Some of this surely I must haue done or you vniustly accuse me None of these could you faile in cride shee so great a wit and matchlesse a spirit would gouerne themselues better then to offend in such fond parts but the reason I haue already giuen being equall excellencies and the beliefe proceeds from this that mee thought you did with as feeling an affection accompany my sorrow when he went away and more neerely I imagined by your fashion it toucht you then pity of my griefe could haue procured Then I considered my eyes had been so fortunate as to looke vpon the best why then should not the best of our sex also looke on the rarest obiect and looking so must not the same conclusion be that beholding as I did loue must come in and conquer as on me so then looking with my eyes of force you must loue him What a progrâ—sse said Pamphilia hath your troubled imagination made to find a poore cause to forge a poorer vexation If all these things were true and that I lou'd Amphilanthus what then were it any more then my extremest torment when I should see his affections otherwise placed the impossibility of winning him from a worthy loue the vnblessed destiny of my poore vnblessed life to faâ—l into such a misery the continuall affâ—ictions of bâ—rning loue the fier of iust rage against my owne eies the hatred of my brest for letting in so destroying a guest that ruines where he comes these were all and these alone touching me in all disquiets Whaâ— need should they haue to molest you since so perfectly you are assur'd of his loue as you need feare no occasion nor any body to wrong you in that wherein he will not wrong his worthy choice and constancy What harme then could it be to you if you should loue him The losse of my content since that your loue said Antissia must not be refus'd but sought and if obtaind wo be to any other that aspires to that place better neuer to be borne then know the birth of so much folly as to aduenture to be a riuall with the rarest Princesse Pamphilia therefore knowing this harme I had rather you did not loue him Well then be satisfied said the sweet but sad Pamphilia my loue to him procâ—eds from his neuer enough praised merits but not for loue otherwise then I haue already exprest Aâ—tissia was with this answer thorowly satisfied taking the Princesse in her armes protesting her life too little to pay for requitall for this royall freedome she had found in her and theâ— fauour receiued from her expressing then her loue in the best manner she could plainely making confession of all to her concluding that had not her incomparable vertue bound her best respects to her yet the resemblance which shee had in her face of that famous Prince and her onely beloued would haue forced her to loue her The delicate Lady told her shee could not better please her then in telling her she did resemble him since then she was sure she was like to true vertue for he was of that the onely body but this loue and his dependances doe so vex vs as they take away all other societie to amend which let vs returne to the Court said she I am contented said Antissia So rising and holding each other by the arme with as much loue as loue in them could â—oyne they tooke their way backe towards the Palace but in the great Garden they met the King and Queene so they attended backe on them into the Hall whither they were no sooner come and setled in their places but they were entertained with this aduenture Tenne Knights comming in russet Armours their Beaâ—ers vp their Swords in their hands who comming more then halfe way to the State making low reuerence stood still parting themselues to either side of the Chamber to let the followers better be discerned Then came tenne more but in blacke Armours chain'd together without Helmets or Swords After them came sixe armed like the first three carrying Speares of infinite bignesse one the Sheild and the other two the Sword and Helmet of a Knight who for countenance seem'd no louer his colour like a Moore his fashion rude and proud following after these sixe who as the first diuided themselues Then came this man to the State leading by the hand as sweete a Ladie as hee was vgly shee as milde in countenance as hee insolent shee as fearefull as hee bold on the other hand of her another Knigâ—â— sad but it seem'd amorous The King and all the Court beholding and expecting the issue of this busines when the stout man in a hollow and hoarse voice deliuered these words King of Morea I am Lansaritano whose fame I doubt not hath spread it selfe to your eares Lord I am of the Ilands of Cerigo Dragonero and other lesser circkling my chiefe Iland as subiects to my greatnes This Lady you see here is my vassall by birth but by my choice honour'd with my loue which she foolishly refuseth iudgement so farre failing her as not to be able to discerne the happinesse and vnspeakable good blind Fortune hath giuen her in letting my high noble thoughts abase
though abus'd by her and sham'd in her Leandrus went to him and kindly offerd his seruice if he needed it Hee casting vp his weeping eyes in teares thankt him but said One man was enough to suffer in so slight a cause and so vndeseruing a creature He desired to know the matter He answerd he had lou'd a Lady she had done the like to him or made him thinke so but hauing what shee would she had changed and not only so but giuen her selfe to his enemy being first betrothed vnto him and in that time he was prouiding for the marriage married the other and this is the cause of my torment hither I am come to reuenge my selfe of him and in him of her if shee loue him still They are in a strong Castle of his where they merrily liue while I am miserably vexed with tortures and dishonour the worst of torments What was the originall cause of his malice Truly Sir this cruelty hee vseth but to mee as belonging to my destiny Neglected I haue been of my friends for bearing this disgrace from mine enemy and the hater of all my Countrie the reason of his hatred to vs proceeding from this The King of Morea in his youth was a braue man at Armes and followed and finished many aduentures by chance at a great Iust held in Achaia for ioy of the birth of the Kings son cald Leandrus as after I heard he was and proou'd a Prince worthily deseruing the ioy then shewed for receiuing of him This Lords father was likewise there and encountring the King was by him throwne to the ground which disgrace hee took so heauily as he would haue reuenged it with his sword but that being forbidden the end of those triumphes reaching no further then sport discontented and burning in rage hee went thence watching when the King returnd in his iourney in this very place he set vpon him troopes of his comming all these seuerall waies and at once charging him who onely for his pleasure had sent his greatest company before him following with two Knights and their Squires but in this conflict the King got so much of the victorie as hee slew his Enemie with his owne hands but could not keepe himselfe from being taken prisoner and carried almost to the Castle whither if hee had gone without doubt hee had thence neuer returnd But the Squires seeing his distresse and the death of the other two their Masters ran euerie one a seuerall way till they got a good number of the traine together who with all speed and fury pursued them ouertaking them hard by the Castle and taking their Lord from them most being kill'd some few got into the hold where relating their vnlucky aduenture the wife of the slaine Lord and Mother to this Lord hauing as great a spirit as any woman breathing made a vow to bee reuenged of all the Court of Morea of the King and his posterity especially And this she hath hitherto performed with great cruelty her sonne hauing beene nursed in this hatred doth likewise continue it with more violence as his spirit is so much greater as commonly a mans is in respect of a womans and this is the cause why hee hateth all the Moreans of which countrey I am borne in Corinth my heart truely scorning him for his other iniury done mee am inuited hither for these two reasons to bee reuenged on him Leandrus thank'd him for his discourse but told him hee had by it made him long to try if hee could bee made a Prisoner also for so iust a cause or deliuer those so vniustly inclosed and the rather said hee to serue one so much iniuried as your selfe whose quarrell lay on mee and doe you defend the honor of your King and Country shee not being worth fighting for Hee answered that was true yet his honor hee esteemd worth cleering and that calld vpon him While they were thus discoursing the Lord and the false Lady came louingly hand in hand together downe one of the paths shee smiling in his eyes and want only courting him seeking to giue him occasion of mirth but hee went on like a man to whom ill was succeeding hee had some seruants with him arm'd and his owne armour was likewise carried by him if hee should haue any occasion suddenly to vse it hee was of a cleere and pleasing complexion a person amiable and louâ—ly curld hayre fayre eyes and so iudiciall a countenance as might haue made the worthiest woman like him and so well hee deseru'd as it was pitty hee fell into her hands who vndid both his minde and bodie making him as wicked as her selfe which was the worst of her sex He looked vpon her with loue but his speech was sparing either that naturally he had not store of words or his inward heauinesse at that time made him silent When he came neere the fountaine Clarimatto approched to him My Lord said he I am sure you know the cause of my comming into these parts if not examine your heart and that will tell you the iniuries you haue donâ— me or if that be so impure or partiall as it will not for offending bee true to so false a master behold this creature by you your shame and mine and in her forehead the faire field of our disgrace you shall see it written in spots of infamy and wrong The Lord knew his face and with it the offence therefore answered him thus Sir said he if on these conditions I acknowledge the vnderstanding of your rage I should make my selfe guilty of what I am free from to my knowledge I neuer wronged any if vnwillingly I made amends and am ready so to doe Can you giue mee my honour againe throwne to the ground by you and your inâ—atiable Loue cride he You wrong vs both said he and this shall be the Ground of my reuenge and answer to you with that he arm'd himselfe shee crying to him not to aduenture his deare selfe against that stranger whom she knew full well shee kneeled to him held him by the leggs kissed them gazed on him in termes call'd him dearest All would not serue he encountred his enemy and truly was he iustly made so by his owne ill deseruing They fought like two one hauing got and earnest to keepe a Mistris the other hauing lost and reuengfull to gaine his honour and kill his Riuall and Vndoer in his Loue at last the true cause got the vpper hand and the Lord came to the lower side of Victory which the seruants perceiuing rushed all vpon Clarimatto Leandrus finding the wrong they offer'd and the other was like to suffer stepp'd in to his rescue A fight was among these performed fit and onely the prize of Loue fit to be the end of it Clarimatto nimble valiant and hauing Iustice on his side fought accordingly and so as the Lord hauing lost much bloud out of two wounds giuen him by his foe nor had he escaped free but was hurt in
my suing to her Shee came then nearer and taking mee vp shee said My Lord for so my Seruant telles mee I may call you much doe I wonder why disguis'd till this time you haue continued If for loue your iudgement much erred to thinke I could affect so low as a Seruant if for other ends my selfe would neuer doe my selfe the wrong to thinke of any vnnoble course and if the first why did you not seeke to discouer it Diuine Lady said I farre be it from me to haue a thought to iuiure that vertue which admiringly I loue and louing honour the reason why I remaind disguis'd and vnknowne was the happinesse I conceiued in seeing you and the feare I had to loose that happinesse no way so much flattering my selfe as to haue a hope to attaine to that whereto my best thoughts ambitiously did flee feare kept me silent loue made me feare Now you haue it dispose of mee mercifully else soone after this discouerie bee pleasd to heare of my sad end She it seemd had pitie but not so much as to expresse it wherfore she only answered thus To assure me of your loue and you of pity this is the course you must take instantly leaue this place nor returne vnto it vntill such time as your fame by your noble deeds may proue such as shall make you worthy of my loue then returne release mee with your owne hands make me perfectly know you are Prince Rosindy and I wil giue my self vnto you I with all ioy promised those conditions should be performd She smil'd and said a Louer would promise any thing I will die said I but accomplish these Then will I be yours said she That gaue me a full heauen of ioy so kneeling downe againe and taking her hand I kist it and on it seald my vow But one thing more said she I would haue you doe let all these deeds be done while you still keepe your name of the Vnknowne and so bee cald till you returne vnlesse some great occasion happen to reueale your selfe I promisd likewise this and so by that name of Vnknowne I haue past these ten moneths neuer discouering my selfe to any but lately to Leandrus and a braue Gentleman then told he her the whole aduenture and now vnto your selfe With promise of her loue my vow anew solemnely made I took my leaue my hart fild with sorrow to part and my soule ready to leaue this earthly cage grieuing so much to leaue my better self she in like sort was sorry and pretily exprest it yet would not let too much bee seene lest it might stay me so we parted I happie and sorry she sorry and most happy in her owne noble vertues But now mee thinkes the time is so long as desire makes me haste homewards accounting that my home where my soule remaines but to this place I came first of purpose to heare what resolution was taken for the conquest of Albania but most for the reliefe of Macedon To obay my Ladies commaund I came secretly and so will remaine vnknowne but to you my dearest Sister now tell mee what you heare and keepe my knowledge to your selfe Pamphilia with infinite ioy hearing this story and the braue fortune like to befall her deare brother tooke him affectionately by the hand vsing these words Most worthy to bee held dearest brother the happinesse is much greater which I conceiue then able to expresse seeing the likelihood of your worthily merited fortune What I know I were a poore weake woman if I would conceale from you or reueale of you Therefore know the intent was to conquer Albania first but whether the absence of Steriamus will hinder it or no I yet know not but this I beleeue that such meanes may be wrought as to preferre Macedon before the other and since your content and fortunes lie that way if you will trust me I will order it so as that shall bee first Bind mee more if you can sweete Sister and to make mee happy enioy the authoritie ouer mee and mine said hee Then did shee entreate him that hee would for a while tarrie there which hee graunted till such time as they could order their affaires according to their owne minds While this content lasted to Pamphilia as much griefe increased to Antissia which griefe at last grew to rage and leauing sorrow fell to spite vowing to reuenge and no more complaine this thought did so farre possesse her as her countenance bewrayed her heart shunning the sight of Pamphilia who with loue and respect did coueâ— hers This change made the sweet Princesse infinitely admire what the reason should bee that now mooued her she seeming to haue remaind satisfied But those who know that languishing paine also know that no perfect satisfaction can be vnlesse the humor it selfe with satisfaction doe quite leaue the possessed for as long as one sparke liues though neuer so little it is able with the least occasion or signe of occasion to make a great fire and so did it now proue Pamphilia desirous to haue no vnkindnes betweene them sought all waies to please her this was as ill a course as if of scorne she had done it or in pitie hauing deceiu'd her would shew the most despised and contemptible friendship which is pitie Madnes grew so vpon this as she burst out into strange passions especially one day when as Embassadours came from the young King of Romania to giue thanks to the King of Morea for his royall curtesie to his Auntâ— who by the Knight of Loue he vnderstood to be in his Court giuing withall such infinite praises of him to the vnspeakable ioy of the old King and all the Court knowing him to bee Amphilanthus as mirth liberally shewed her selfe in all faces but Antissia's The Embassadour hauing deliuered letters to her both from Amphilanthus and the King wherein she was intreated to come into Romania to him and by her seruant aduised not to refuse the Kings demand but to goe with the Embassadour which was the new Duke Lizandrinus whither in short time himselfe would also come but the more sweet and kind language hee vs'd in his letter the greater was her conceite it was vsed to flatter her complement neuer being vsed in the time of her happinesse especially when she came to the point of going she directly concluded that he had laid that tricke vpon her to be rid of her sight and the freâ—lier to enioy his new Mistris and this she angerly told Pamphilia whispering in her eare withall adding that he might aswell haue told her thus much himselfe considering she saw him and you braue Lady said she last night in the Gardenwood Pamphilia between feare to haue her brother discouerd by her malice disdaine so vniustly to be accused her bloud scorning to lie stil when it was wrongd boldly shewd it self in her face with thretning anger but this mou'd a coÌ„trary effect theÌ„ feare increasing base iealousie in stead
much admir'd as admiration wrought so farre as to permit him to thinke that she equal'd Vrania this was a sudden stepp from so entyre a Loue as but now hee vowed to his Shepherdesse being an Heresie as he protested for any man to thinke there liu'd a creature like his Loue. But into this hee is now falne and will lead the faction against her Vncertaine Tyrant Loue that neuer brings thy Fauourits to the topp of affection but turnes againe to a new choice Who would haue thought any but Vrania's beauty could haue inuited Parselius to loue Or who could haue thought any might haue withdrawne it till this sight Which so much mou'd as he loues Vrania but for being somewhat like to Dalinea but her for her owne sake He was not so struck with wonder when he first saw Vrania though with it he lost his liberty as he was now wounded to death loosing life if no compassion succeeded this first sight wonne him and lost his former Bondage yet was he freed but to take a new bond vpon him He went towards her who with a Maiesticke yet gracious fashion met him who saluted her thus My fare leading me I hope for my greatest happinesse I 'm sure yet for my best content bringing me thus to behold your excellencies fâ—om farre places vnlooking for pleasures am brought to the height of them most incomparable Lady in comming thus into your presence whereto I was emboldned by the loue I bare your Brother by the curtesies of your seruants the honour your selfe granted me in licencing my approach but most by my owne soule which told me I must not passe without paying the tribute of my best seruice to the Princesse of all women for how would my conscience accuse me in such a neglect How would my heart blame me for such an omission But how might braue Leandrus chide Parselius if hee yeelded not himselfe at the feete of his worthily admired Sister Dalinea hearing him call himselfe Parselius with a sweet and pleasing blush desired pardon that she had so farre forgot her selfe as not to doe him sufficient reuerence but yet a little blame your selfe great Prince said she who vnknowne and vndiscouering your selfe to any you come among vs pardon this rudenesse and be pleasâ—d to accept my submissiâ—n for it to deserue which fauour I will striue in giuing you the best welcome to deserue it He took her hand aâ—d kissed it which although she could in respect haue hindred yet so delicate was his hand as shee was content to let him hold and kisse hers Then she brought him vnder the State where two Chaires being set they passed away some time discoursing of aduentures and of the sweet content the Companion Princes enioyd in their youthes shee infinitely delighting in those stories especially when they touched on her brother whom entirely she loued Parselius finding which way her affection lead her made his attend her and all his stories either beginning or ending with the praise of Leandrus Thus one pleas'd and the other contented that it was in him to content her they passed some dayes loue creeping into the heart of Dalinea as subtilly as if he meant to surprise and not by open force take her Discourse procur'd conuersation sweet conuersation liking of it selfe that liking desire to continue it that desire louing it and that the man that affoorded it and thus farre come I should wrong her if I should not say shee yeelded in her heart to loue his person whose discourse had made his way by taking first her eares prisoners now her eyes likewise execute their office brings his excellent shape his beauty his absolute braue fashion then her vnderstanding besets her tells her how excellent his wit is how great his valour how matchlesse his worth how great his descent and royall possessions all these alas ioynd and made a curious and crafty worke to compasse that which loue himselfe without halfe or any in comparison of these assistants could haue made his subiect But as the rarest Iewell is not to be had but at the highest rate so her peerelesse perfections must haue all this businesse to gaine her but now she is wonne and he almost lost not daring to thinke so or ventring to winne it He would with his eyes tell her his heart with kissing her delicate hand with a more then vsuall affection let her feele his soule was hers She found it and vnderstood what hee would haue her vnderstand nay shee would answer his lookes with as amorous ones of her part as straightly and louingly would she hold his hand but knowing modesty forbid shee would sigh and in her soule wish that he would once speake but bashfulnesse with-held him and woman modestie kept her silent till one afternoone walking iâ—to a most curious and dainty Garden where all manner of sweets were ready in their kind to entertaine them Flowers of all sorts for smell and colour Trees of all kinds of fruits and walkes diuided for most delight many Birds singing and with their notes welcomming them to that place At last a payre of innocent white Turtles came before them in their fashion woing each other and so wonne enioying their gaine in billing and such like pretty ioy Parselius taking aduantage on this how blessed said he are these poore Birds in their owne imaginations thus hauing one anothers loue T is true said Dalinea but more blessed are they if the story bee true that they neuer change Hauing once said he made a perfect choice none sure can after change I neuer heard man accuse himselfe said she but rather when he had runne into that fault finde something amisse in his former loue I am sorry replide the Prince you haue so ill an opinion of men since that I feare will hinder you from honouring any with your loue Why should you feare that answerd shee Because sigh'd hee I would not haue such admirable Beauties vnaccompanied but ioyn'd to a worthy associate These must said shee for any thing I see remaine as they doe if such as you say long enough before they wil be sought feare cryde he makes men speechlesse and admiration hinders the declaring their affections A poore louer said shee such a one must be who wants the heart of one such little Bird as this I see most perfect Lady said he then that this bashfulnesse is neither profitable nor commendable wherefore I wil now incouraged by your words rather commit an error in honest plainnesse then in fine Courtship and if it be an error take this with it it is not meant amisse though it may bee rudely performed asâ— what but rudenesse can come from a wandring Knight Not then to colour that which is most cleare and perfect in it selfe with fine and delicate Phrases or to goe too farre about from the right way of discouering giue me leaue most excellent Princesse to say that so excelling was your power ouer me when I first saw you and so
rest Leaue not that to me since but for my ill Which punish may and millions of hearts kill Then may I lonely sit downe with my losse Without vexation for my losses crosse Forgetting pleasures late embrac'd with Loue Linâ—k'd to a faith the world could neuer moue Chainâ—d with affection I hop'd could not change Not thinking Earth could yeeld a place to range But staying cruelly you set my blisse With deepest mourning in my sight for misse And thus must I imagine my curse more When you I lou'd add to my mischiefs store If not then Memory continue still And vex me with your perfectest knowne skill While you deare solitarinesse accept Me to your charge whose many passions kept In your sweet dwellings haue this profit gaind That in more delicacie none was paind Your rarenesse now receiue my rarer woe With change and Loue appoints my soule to know When he had made this and committed them to that keeper who yet would not be perswaded to set him at liberty but continued the more to molest him like a soare that one beates to cure yet smarts the more for beating So did Memory abide with him Then walk'd hee on to meete his friends who were all in their kinds as much perplex'd as himâ—elfe Amphilanthus alone and so the abler to be bold in speech began thus walking with his armes folded louingly for loue one within the other along a sweet Riuer Vnhappy man sigh'd he that liues to bee vexed with the same that once most delighted thee who could haue thought inconstancy a waight if not to presse me on to more delight Leâ—â— I till now any wherein change brought not vnspeakable content When I tooke Antissia thought I not I was happy in the change When I before had altered from and to that loue did it not bring a full consent of blisse But now that I haue changed and for and to the best alas how am I troubled How afflicted How perplexed Constancie I see is the onely perfect vertue and the contrary the truest fault which like sinnes intices one still on of purpose to leaue one in the height as the height of enioying makes one leaue the loue to it I haue offended all you powers of loue pardon me and if there be any one among you that hath the rule of truth gouerne mee direct me and hencefoorth assure your selfe of my faith and true subiection error makes me perfect and shewes me the light of vnderstanding But what talke I of truth Why commend I faith when I am vncertaine whether these will winne She alas shee doth loue and woe is mee my hope 's in this quite lost shee loues and so I see my end yet neuer shall that come without a noble conclusion and that her eyes and eares shall witnesse with my losse Dearest once pitty my sad lookes shall tell thee I doe loue my sighes shall make thee heare my paines my eyes shall let thee see if thou wilt but see mee that onely thy sight is their comfort for when from thee they stirre they must finde a new seat to turne in and a head to dwell in and so now they haue for nothing see they but thy delicacy nothing viewe but thy perfections turne from all to thee and onely turne vnto thee My soule hath also eyes to see thy worth Loue hath now fram'd me wholly to thy Lawes command then heere I breath but to thy loue from which when I doe swarue let me loue vnrequited but dearest be thou kinde and then haue I all blisse Why shouldest not thou leaue one since for thee I le leaue all Be once vnconstant to saue me as 't were from death who for it will be true I vow and this vow still will keepe that onely thou art worthy and alone will I loue thee Then casting vp his eyes he saw before him a rare meadow and in the midst of it a little Arbour as he so farre off tooke it to bee but drawing neerer he found a delicate Fountaine cricled about with Orenge and Pomgranet trees the ground vnder them all hard sand about the Fountaine as next adioyning was a hedge of Iesamnis mingled with Roses and Woodbines and within that paued with pauements of diuers colours plac'd for shew and pleasure on the steps he sate downe beholding the worke of the Fountaine which was most curious being a faire Maide as it were thinking to lade it drie but still the water came as fast as it past ouer the dish she seemd to lade withall and iust thus said hee are my labours fruitlesse my woes increasing faster then my paines find ease Then hauing enough as hee thought giuen liberty to his speech he put the rest of his thought into excellent verse making such excelling ones as none could any more imitate or match them then equall his valour so exquisite was he in all true vertues and skill in Poetry a quallitie among the best much prized and esteemed Princes brought vp in that next to the vse of Armes When he had finished them he sate a while still then looking on the Fountaine he said Deare hopes spring as this water flow to inioying like this streame but wast not till my life doth wast in me nay dye runne to my Loue and tell her what I feele Say and say boldly till I knew her selfe I was but ignorant and now doe know that only she and she alone can saue or ruinâ— me Many more and far more excellent discourses had he with himselfe and such as I am altogether vnable to set down therfore leaue them to be guessed at by those who are able to comprehend his worth and vnderstanding such may expresse his passions all else admire and admiringlâ—â—steeme so incomparable a Prince who for a little while continued â—hus but then leauing the Fountaine he went strait on and followed on his way till he came vnto a Hill the sides appearing rocky the topp hee might discerne greene and some trees vpon it he by little and little climb'd to the topp where in the middle of it he saw a hole and looking in at that hole perceiu'd fire a pretty way below it and that fire as if it were stir'd by some hands whereupon hee concluded that this was some poore abode of some miserable people either made so by want or misfortune which likewise might bee want that being the greatest misery Round aboâ—t the top hee sought but at last thought with himselfe that there was no way to see the Inhabitants but by some way in the side of this Rocke wherefore he went downe againe and halfe about the Hill when he found a little doore of stone the euen proportion of the opening making him knowe it to be so else nothing could haue disordered it so close it was appearing but like chinkes or clifts He pull'd at it but it would not stirre then he knock'd when straight a little window was opened and out of it an vgly old Dwarfe looked whose face
with Hilles or rather Mountaines of such height as no way was possible to bee found to come at it but thorow the same vault the King came Diuers Gardens and Orchards did surround this pallace in euery one was a fountaine and euery fountaine rich in art and plentifully furnished with the vertue of liberalitie freely bestowing water in abundance These places hee past staying in a large stone Gallerie set vpon pillers of the same stone there hee sat downe complaining still of his Mistrisse whose heart was stored with paine and loue equally oppressing her O cride he my dearest loue the sweetest cruell that euer Nature fram'd how haue I miserable man offended thee that not so much as a looke or shew of pity will proceede from thee to comfort mee are all thy fauours lockt vp and onely sad countenances allotted mee Alas consider women were made to loue and not to kill yet you will destroy with cruell force while I changed to a tender creature sit weeping and mourning for thy crueltie which yet I can hardly terme so since thou knowest not my paine Further hee would haue proceeded when a doore opened into that roome and out of it came a graue Ladie apparreld in a black habit and many more young women attending her shee straight went to him saluting him thus Braue King welcome to this place being the abiding of your friend and seruant Hee looking vpon her perceiued wisdome modestie and goodnesse figured in her face wherefore with a kind acceptance hee receiued this salutation desiring to bee informed of the place but most to know how he came knowne to her Sir said shee my name is Mellissea and hauing skill in the Art of Astrologie I haue found much concerning you and as much desire to doe you seruice Can you find good Madam said hee whether I shall bee happie in my loue or not In loue my Lord said shee you shall bee most happy for all shall loue you that you wish but yet you must bee crost in this you now affect though contrarie to her heart But shall I not enioy her then miserable fortune take all loues from me so I may haue hers Shee loues you said Mellissea and it will prooue your fault if you lose her which I thinke you will and must to preuent which if possible beware of a treacherous seruant For this place it is that anciently reuerenced and honoured Iland of Delos famous for the birth of those two great lights Apollo and Diana the ruines of Apollo's and Latona's Temples remaining to this day on the other side of that mountaine called Cynthus once rich and populous now poore and peoplelesse none or very few inhabiting here besides this my family the sharpe and cruell rockes which girdle this Iland guarding it selfe and vs from dangerous robbings But must I loose my Loue said Amphilanthus Accursed fate that so should happen I yet doe hope if I may be assured shee loues mee this will neuer bee Well my Lord said shee to let you see that hope is too poore a thing in comparison of truth to trust to I wil giue you these tokens to make you truly see my words are true you haue lately had a wound by a woman but this a greater and more dangerous you must suffer which will indanger your life farre more then that last did yet shall the cause proceede from your owne rashnesse which you shall repent when 't is too late and when time is past know the meanes might haue preuented it but to doe what I may for your good I aduise you to this alter your determination for your iourney to Morea and in stead of it goe straight to Ciprus where you must finish an Inchantment and at your returne come hither and with you bring that company that you release there then shall I bee more able to aduise you for this doth yet darken some part of my knowledge of you Hee remaind much perplext with those words yet as well as such affliction would permit him hee made shew of patience Then did Mellissea send one of her Maides to bring his companions to him hoping their sights and the discourse of their fortunes would a little remoue his melancholie from him in the meane time hee with crossed armes walkt vp and downe the Gallerie musing in himselfe how hee should so farre and deadlily fall out with himselfe as to be the cause of his owne miserie not being able though hee had the best vnderstanding to reach into this misterie Sometimes the Lady discoursed to him and he for ciuilitie did answere her yet oft-times she was content to attend his owne leisure for his replie so much power had his passions ouer him Thus hee remaind molested while Steriamus following his right hand way was brought into a fine plaine and thence to the foote of a mountaine where hee found rich pillers of Marble and many more signes of some magnificent building which sight wrought pitie in him remembring how glorious they seem'd to haue been now throwne downe to ruine And so said hee was my fortune faire and braue in shew but now cast low to despaire and losse O Pamphilia Goddesse of my soule accept mee yet at last if not for thy seruant yet for thy Priest and on the Altar of thy scorne will I daily offer vp the sacrifice of true and spotlesse loue my heart shall bee the offering my teares the water my miserable body the Temple and thy hate and cruellest disdaine the enemy that layes it waste Once yet consider greatest beautie mightiest riches sumptuousest buildings all haue some end brightest glory cannot euer dure and as of goodnesse must not ill haue so grant this and then thy rage must needs conclude Yet thus did not his paine find conclusion but a little further hee went among those ruines where hee laid himselfe not downe but threw himselfe among those poore and destroyed reliques of the rarest Temples where hard by hee heard Ollorandus likewise complaining My Melasinda said hee how iustly maist thou blame thy Ollorandus who still trauels further from thee who stroue to bring thy loue still neerest to him Canst thou imagine thy immaculate affection well bestowed when so great neglect requiteth it Wilt thou or maist thou thinke the treasure of thy loue and richest gift of it well bestowed when absence is the paiment to it If against mee and these thou do'st but iustly except yet what doth hold thee from killing that slaue and setting thy deare soule at libertie No thy vertues will not like a murderer it must bee as it is Destiny must onely worke and despairing sorrow tyre it selfe in me Steriamus wanting pitie knew the misse and therefore would bee as charitable as hee could to shew which goodnesse he rose and went to Ollorandus to put him from his mourning who was then againe entring into his waylings telling him they were too long from Amphilanthus As hee start vp behold Dolorindus who came sadly towards them
Dolorindus who by Treason they got and hauing heard his Story which almost was the same he told for himselfe onely this differing that the Kingdome was not giuen by affection to the daughter but by right as being a gift giuen by the Grandfather to his Daughter and her first borne which happened to be a Daughter and so shee elder put Dolorindus by The rest was true of her ill deseruing but the Father righted by his Sonne by a Combate against two mightie men was deliuered from prison she put downe from gouenment and committed to his Prison where shortly after she died This Story the wicked man made his owne and his Sonne tooke the name of braue Dolorindus forging the rest and making that deceitfull Chariot of purpose to betray the Princesse whom they purposed to haue carried with them to Sio and to keepe her by that Treason against all at least the amorous Louer should haue had his desire This being confess'd and hee no Prince but an vsurping Lord of other mens rights and a Kings and Princes honour they were all condemn'd and executed according to the Archadian Law Now is the time of Steriamus departing come and also for Dolorindus who taking their leaues of the King and Court promised Rosindy and Selarinus to meete them soone after in Macedon kissing Pamphilia's hand once more to blesse his lips with the last affectionate kisse hee can euer haue from her or giue to her hee departed with his friend towards Snt. Maura perplexed in soule loue working more terribly now then euer like that killing disease which parts not but with life and so was this sicknesse come now to the height in him A little lesse case felt Antissia who now must soone leaue Morea the Abmassadour recouered of his hurts and others chosen to goe in Commission with him concerning the forces being the two braue Princes of Corinth and Elis Brother to the proud louer of Parselius who hee met as you haue heard More honourably Antissia could not be accompanied and since shee must goe 't was thought fit she went with them The day before she was to goe not hauing all night taken any rest she rose earlyer then shee was accustomed and sooner then any was stirring shee came into Pamphilia's Chamber who she found sweetly sleeping but drawing the curtaine she awaked and seeing her wondred what occasion had call'd her vp so soone and at that houre to bee dress'd wherefore shee said why what disturbance sweet Antissia hath thus rais'd you What disquiets molested you Can your thoughts affoord you no more rest Or is it ioy for your departure makes you thus early and takes away that dull humour of sleepe from your spirits Ioy to part O me reply'd she weeping No Pamphilia my heart doth breake to thinke of it my soule is tortur'd so as it enioyes no peace for griefes additions The losse of your company is much more to mee said the Princesse for you gone who shall I haue the blessing to conuerse withall With whom or to whom may I freely say my minde To whom speake my paine To whom waile my misfortunes Thus is the losse most in me for you goe to your Nephew where you soone will see your loue while I lamenting spend my time I am to tarry here which since you goe will seeme ages to mee Why will you be thus cruell most sweet Pamphilia said shee to add vnto my torments by the expression of your fauour to me I shall goe 't is true to my Nephew rather to content him then my self since what wil his Court be to mee when I shall bee in the Dungeon of Despaire For seeing my Loue much hope I haue when he fauours me not so much as by these Princes to send one poore remembrance to let me know hee thinkes on such a soule a soule indeede wonne and loft by him who now despises the memory of her who disdained not to loue and serue him and who I know suffers in honor for him but let her suffer and be he as vngratefull as he will I yet must loue so much as to lament his losse But me thought you touch'd euen now of parting whither rare Lady will you goe Or what quarell haue you to poore Morea to leaue it desolate as so it must be when you forsake it I shall leaue it but for a while said she and then it will be freer and safer from afflictions when the most afflicted shall bee absent from it Goe I must with mine Vncle to be seene to the Pamphilians and acknowledged their Princesse which Countrey my Vncle in his youth being as braue and valiant a man as euer breathed wonne from the subiection of Tyrants in requitall whereof the people chose him their King their loue being then so great and still continuing as they haue giuen him leaue to choose his Successor which by reason he neuer marryed had else falne to them againe for choice He long since chose me and to that end gaue mee that name but hee growing old or rather weake and they desirous to know me gain'd of him to make this voyage for me with whom I doe returne speedily and now reioyce in the soone comming of it since you and I must part O name not that word great Princesse sigh'd shee but rather spend this little time in such content as our hearts can permit vs disposing these houres to a more pleasing purpose pray therefore rise and goe into the solitary wood where we may vnheard and vnperceiu'd better discourse our woes saddly and freely complaining I will euer yeeld vnto your desires said Pamphilia then goe you before and I shall soone follow you Antissia left her taking the way to the Walkes Pamphilia got vp and as shee was making her ready her passionate breast scarce allowing her any respite from her passions brought these Verses to her mind wherein shee then imprinted them DEare Loue alas how haue I wronged thee That ceaselesly thou still dost follow me My heart of Diamond cleare and hard I find May yet be pierc'd with one of the same kind Which hath in it ingrauen a loue more pure Then spotlesse white and deepe still to endure Wrought in with teares of neuer resting paine Caru'd with the sharpest point of curs'd disdaine Raine oft doth wash away a slender marke Teares make mine firmer and as one small sparke In straw may make a fierâ— so sparkes of loue Kindles incessantly in me to moue While cruelst you doe onely pleasure take To make me faster ty'd to scornes sharpe stake T is harder and more strength must vsed be To shake a tree then bougâ—es we bending see So to moue me it was alone your power None else could ere haue found a yeelding hower Curs'd be subiection yet blest in this sort That 'gainst all but one choice my heart a fort Hath euer lasted though beseig'd not mou'd But by their misse my strength the stronger prou'd Resisting with that constant might that win They
women and a vexation to the worst as I am vnto my vnblessed selfe Assist meâ— good Father in my miâ—ery this is truth I haue told you and more then ought to liue on earth or I hope can be found againe wherfore that as all ill is in mee I desire nay couet to end that the world may be no longer infected with that plague but as knit in me that knot may neuer be vnty'd but end and conclude with me Then wept he as if it had beene to satisfie a drought with rayne sheding teares in such abundance as they left that name to be more properly tearmed little streames Well it was that the Sea was the place of receiuing those springs which from the Rocke ranne into her which in madnesse of despaire hee would once haue followed offring to tumble into her the old man striuing with him stayd him who had lost all power to resist greife hauing taken away his strength and in place of it giuen him only might in weakning passions working for their glory to destroy Then did the aged Hermitte comfort him chiding him for his wilfull sinne in seeking to murther himselfe Religiously hee wrought vpon his fury so as he brought him to a more peaceable bearing his afflictions but not to any more easie This storme a little quieted as after a tempest of Thunder a shower of raine is thought little the good man to passe the time began his story the relation wherof gaue some liking to Parselius But because the Drums beate and Trumpets sound in Morea for the releife of Macedon and the braue conquest of Rosindy the Hermitts discourse must a little stay while warrs the noblest because profess'd by the noblest take a little time for them The time come for the Armies marching braue Rosindy tooke his iourney with his most noble companions hee Generall Selarinus Generall of the Horse the Prince of Corinth and Elis had their places reserued for them as Serieant Maior Commander of the Archers Many braue Knights and bold men went along some out of loue some for ambition some for honor many for preferment The rendeuous was at Cariapaiary in the Confines of Macedon not farr distant from the Riuer Deâ—oda where they met the Romanian Armie led by Lisandrinus as desired but with it came Antissius to see the braue warrs and to receiue Knighthood of Amphilanthus who not being there hee soone left the Army to find him out promising when he had from him receiued that honor and only from him would he haue it he would returne to them where euer they were Thus marched they on with all the brauery that might be euery one striuing who should be most sumptuous to expresse their loues and respects to their Generall who was more generally beloued then any Prince except his Cousen and Brother euery one wearing his Colours in honor to him which was Oring-tawny and white Thither came to the place of meeting also the Achaians ledd by Leandrus who after hee had visited his Sister and once againe seene his aged Father followed the Armie gone before and ouertooke them before their comming to the Towne With them and much tâ—ue affection in himselfe to the Generall hee came to Rosindy of whom hee receiued most louing welcome who euer could imagine glorie might heere haue seeene it at the height of perfection magnanimous spirits braue and vnconquered men vndaunted souldiers riches of all gallantry in euery respect and what was most and best all excellent souldiers and true souldiers the excellentest men Thus then was all that could be wisht in this Army together ioynd none refused passage but willingly yeelded it to be rid of their force so as loue or feare made free and open way for them till they came within the skirts of Macedon there they met some but poore resistance till they came to a great Plaine neere the riuer of Deuoda There they saw a great Army and by intelligence knew the Vsurper was there they went as neare him as discretion would permit them considering night grew on and as iudicially prouided for the Army the Generall himselfe going to settle euery Quarter in his right place being so expert in the learning of the Art of a Souldier as hee could iustly tell what compasse of ground would serue from one hundred to thousands When hee had setled them he returned to his Tent where hee with the Princes and Commanders supped after consulting what would be fittest to bee done the next day many opinions were giuen some to set vpon the King and his Army but that Selarinus liked not for said hee wee are but strangers and all our hope and power in the Armie if wee be ouerthrowne all is lost for vs if hee loose the day hee is in his owne Country and may haue aide instantly brought to him therefore I thinke fitter to let him vrge vs then for vs to presse him to fight besides no question but hee will doe that why then should wee bee so forward Let vs patiently goe on with temper and the greater will bee our benefit Rosyndie much commended his aduise and resolued to bee perswaded by it While thus they sate came a Trumpet from Clotorindus with a defie and challenge to fight the next morning This was accepted the hower appointed eight of the clocke thus euery one betooke themselues to rest hoping for the next dayes victorie As soone as day appeared Rosyndie tooke his Horse and rid through all the Armie aduising intreating commanding and vsing faire words intreaties peremptorie authoritie and all in their kinds as hee found the subiects on whom they must bee vsed with such iudgement as bred not onely loue and feare but admiration in all hearts to see so great vnderstanding and vnusuall excâ—llencie in so few yeares But now all are ready his Armie hee ordâ—r'd thus the foote hee diuided in three bodies the Vanguard led by himselfe accompanied with Leandrus the Maine battel by Selarinus accompanied with Lisandrinus the Reare by the graue Marshall who went with him out of loue to his person with him was his sonne Lesarino some of the Horse by reason of aduantage was found in that place were put on either side as Wings the right-hand Wing giuen to Tolimandro the left to the Prince of Elis some Foote placed to flanke the Horse and some Horse put in each diuision Clotorindus had put his men much in this kind so they charged the Vantguard of the Macedonians led by a braue and valiant Gentleman called Thesarenus Prince of Sparta who did so brauely as had there been but few more of his spirit the day had hardly bin lost at least not so soone wonne Rosyndie with the vantguard charged the Macedonians where there was a cruell fight the Morean Horse first defeated then the Vantguard broken and disordered which Selarinus perceiuing came with the Maine-battaile to the succour where so brauely hee found Rosindie fighting as hee had made walles of dead men of his owne
greater taking away the inheritance of others as from me your friend who haue as much right to misery as any liuing in as great excesse of it and hauing as large possessions in that gouernment then spare me liberty to complaine with you permit mee to say misfortune is as much mine as yours and then like fellow subiects let vs bewaile the weight of that vniust tyranny Pardon mee deare friend said heâ— if I would wholly take ill to my selfe since it is to free you and all worthy people from that which I am fittest to beare as a creature fram'd for the vassalage of Loue and his crueltie but since you aske liberty to bewaile take it and let that bring your freedome while it redoubles on my breast as being mine and yours tell mee then all your woe and know you speake to woe it selfe in speaking vnto me Then Dolorindus beginning with the set order of louers which is with sighes and teares began his discourse thus Free from the knowledge of harme it was my hap to meete a Lady hunting in a great Forrest attended on by many braue Gentlemen and Knights but being more then woman-like excellent in riding she had left her Ladies or rather they had left her not able to attend her in that surpassing quality I young and affecting sport fell into the company marking more that braue Diana then the chase shee followed which was of a Stagge who though hee tooke pride in being so pursued and that it was in him to make her follow stoutly commanded her attendance yet cowardly flying from her thinking it better to trust to his speed then her mercy yet was he rewarded at last fit for his merit for standing at bay as if to threaten her doggs and euen before her face gazing on her she stroke him with a Crossebow to the heart then weepingly hee fell downe at her feete groaning for her vnkindnesse yet was not this the cruelst blow she gaue for O me shee did likewise wound my breast Then came they all about her admiring the hurt while I admired any seeing her could liue vnwounded Some prais'd the hounds that so truly hunted I prais'd mine eyes that neuer were at fault till they brought home the honor of the day which was the losse of my poore heart hunted by mine eyes vnto that bay When all the rights were done and doggs rewarded I alone vnsatisfied for my great gift shee nobly intreated the company to goe with her vnto her house which all agreed vnto and my selfe vnknowne to any there tooke my way with them boldly aduenturing on that inuitation We sat downe at dinner all the discourse was still vpon the sport that morning the Stagge afforded them to which I gaue a poore assistance for hauing been bred abroad to learning and to armes I was an vnexperienced hunts-man which she marked and accordingly made vse of telling mee that sure the hunting was not pleasing to me or the want of that exercise had made me vnskilfull in the discourse I said the latter was the true reason for till that day I neuer saw that sport though I had knowne the field delights in many sorts Then fell she to discourse of martiall things being excellently learned in all the Arts knowledge no way scanting her Thus dinner past when horses againe were brought forth and she waited on by vs went forth to see Haukes flee spending the after-noone in that delight inuiting vs againe with her when before supper choyce of musique was bestowed vpon vs all these did well and best to serue her best beloued selfe but these alas prou'd but more hurts to mee making mee by them see my greater losse loue like a seâ—pent poysoning my ioyes and biting my best daies venomd all my blisse making my new pris'd wound death to my hopes and sorrow to my soule Pitie I wanted pitie I sought but pity durst not ask and thus did griefe take me in me make abiding commiseration was the mark I aimed at but feare held my hand I saw her faire and delicate and therfore imagined soft pity to be within so sweet a cage yet had her eies such powerful might as gaue command that none should dare to claime so rich a blisse ouerwhelmed with the cruelst spite that Nature could inflict vpon a man I remaind which was fild with a youthfull bashfulnesse which ouerswaied my humblest heart disasters glorying in my patient suffering excessiuenesse of sorrow flowing in me for now was the time to part or if I would remaine I must not hide my selfe or longer stay vnknowne for then was her husband to returne from a iourney made vnto the neighbour I le wherefore I thought it not amisse the company all gone to take my time and thus I spake vnto her If that which I must say should turne to giue offence accursed would I thinke the time and words I go about to vtter but comming from a man wholly deuoted to your seruice I hope they will produce such ends as they are now directed to and so may make me blessed if blessing can descend on one so much vnblest yet as my self this time wherin I haue enioied the full of outward ioy beholding you hath yet brought loues attendants losse feare with it losse of my libertie tyed wholly to your wil feare in my heart if you despise my loue cause of affection I can challenge none for me if not in gratitude to me who giue my self for it a strangers name may make you scorne me not knowing worth in me but boldnesse fitting all contempt these yet you may cast by for this stranger your seruant am sonne to the King and your humblest louer Dolorindus She who before did in her lookes manifest the breeding of a curst reply a little smoothed the tempest of her rage and wiâ—h sober reuerence demanded pardon for her vsing me with no more respect and yet my Lord said she the fault may sooner be pardoned since 't was you which were the cause of it Then did I againe solicit she modestly but confidently much refus'd Her husband then arriued who knowing mee gaue free and noble welcome I sought how still to induce the man to loue my company and to seeke it which hee did also hauing his ends which surely he might gaine so I might compasse mine to which for all her chast replies and curious preseruing of her honour in her words at last I did obtaine and so her loue in as equall measure as mine was to her which was without compare had hers not equald it Thus it continued for some yeeres all the mirth and sports that were in Negropont were still at her Castle Maskes Iusts Huntings nothing can bee thought on that was not in plenty at her house My selfe though sonne vnto the king yet my sister being to inherit the kingdome was not so much lookt after if not by noâ—le minds as shee who was to rule so as I gain'd by that meanes both more
freedome and lesse ouer-seers of my actions To a Maske that wee had there wherein I was a Lady came whose ill 't was to fal in loue me and so violently did it flame as it grew dangerous if she were refus'd a womans hate which is the deadliest I was to expect if I consented iust disdaine from my deare selfe I was to merit Hate could not stirre mee to such ill but feare lest it would blaze vnto her hurt made me yeeld some content In these two straites I was if I would haue asked leaue and told the cause it yet might purchase doubt if I denied certaine hurt ensued To auoid both I did kindly vse her and such words spake before my onely loue as I did wish that she should vnderstand while still the other tooke them to her selfe Thus it was well but how could well long last with me from this well grew my worst ill and that ill all my woe for my loues husband grew to doubt his wife which well he might for though she were assured or truly might be of my faith to her yet could shee not but sometime shew dislike that she sought to win me or that she should aspire to be her riuall loue this made that secret deare affection seen which so long had laine close wrapped vp alone in knowledge of our soules Hee had no sooner found this but hee straight studdied by skill to be reueng'd and yet to seeme still ignorant of the plot and thus his wicked practise he began A solemne feast hee made which was to last for twelue whole dayes the reason he alleaged was this an old man once did say whose skill was very great in the Art of Diuination as 't was held that he should neuer liue to fiftie yeares of age which time being then expired this feast for that cause was appointed Many Ladies thither were inuited with their Lords and many knights who were to win faire Ladies and with the rest this amorous Lady came whose welcome to my loue was like hers vnto me I grieud that shee was there because I saw shee did displease her eyes who firmely held my heart The Lord whose name was Redulus neuer shewed better cheere his heart neuer more foule nor thoughts more â—ulled with base fram'd tricks At the first show which was by candle light and neither Masque nor properly any one thing but a mingle of diuers sorts I sate betweene those two whose loues in seuerall kindes I held my Ladies intruth mix'd with a little feare the other in violence heated with dislike I had but one loue yet of force shew'd two faith and sincere affection to my choyce dissembled and a faign'd respect to her had chosen me The husband watching all and catching with as many seuerall watches our close looks as spiders flyes with numbers of her webs then did his wit begin to play that part allotted to it selfe which was to throw a spitefull iarre among vs three which was effected by this diuiliâ—h meanes flouting the Lady whom my soule best loued telling her how shee had made such a choyce hee could not blame her for since hee a Prince a dainty youth a neate and courtly Knight delicate amorous how can hee bee sâ—ene without admiring and then louing yet truely wife said he I better doe deserue your loue since I haue loued but you and you haue many partners in his loue I speake not this for iealousie nor am I angry with it or displeased but onely pitty you who are deceiu'd Courtiers you know will loue choyce of Mistresses alas what lucke haue you to fall into this snare to loue and to be couzened of your loue by one you make your friend and sweet companion iustly yet this is done that you afford your friend a part in all Selinea for so was she deere shee my Lady cal'd knew not at first with what face or in what kind to receiue these words the husband first was the informer the businesse his dishonour the losse hers the fault her louers these call'd her sharpest and best pleased wits to ayde at last shee thus did say My Lord you say you pity me in this kinde were I guilty you had more iust cause to hate me for truth in men except your selfe their truths and falshoods are indifferent to me hauing no further reason to commend prize or dislike them but for vertues sake and so am I in my owne opinion blessed in your loue as I should despaire of blessing if I deseru'd it not in the same height of loyalty for the Prince he hath it is true many noble parts able to win womens affections but yet none such where true worth remaines as to diuert them from a vertuous life since that leaues the name property when it runs to change If I were single it might be I should as soon like him as any other but I lou'd you and loue you neuer to change from that loue therefore I pray you take home your before-giuen pitty and bestow it where it wants since I haue yet no vse of it and continue that loue you did beare me which shall be requited with as lasting a faith in me He who expected rather a curst and sharpe answer then so milde an one tooke her in his armes and kissing her swore hee lou'd her well before but now his heart was wholly hers thus shee as shee hop'd had satisfied him who seem'd contented but his minde was no more then before quieted for then hee went to Melinea and talking with her discoursed how infinitely hee was afflicted with the wrong that Dolorindus did him in his reputation and honour courting of his wife so publikely and striuing to discredit him vnto the world and so vndoe his happinesse at home which hee enioyed while Selinea louâ—d him but now such power had the earnest and importunate loue of the Prince gained ouer her weake powers to resist as hee had made her his But yet sayd Melinea he loues her not assuredly as you imagine Bee not deceiu'd sweet Melinea said Redulus for neuer did man more passionately affect then Dolorindus doth did you but see his sleights nay his passions if they faile you would sweare no man did violently loue but hee his sighs with folded armes and stealing lookes discouers what hee feeles How haue I seene him when he talk'd with you and kiss'd your hand throw euen his soule out at his eyes to her Surely my Lord said shee you cannot see this but you doe speake it onely to trye if I would proue so vnworthy as to ioyne with you in doubt of her who is as good as faire No I protest said hee I speake as I belieue and know but yet I am assur'd that his loue is the greater and the cause that shee did euer bend to thinke of loue A Princes name is able to attract a chast-borne â—aide to know loues heate and force what then can loue and strong affection ioyn'd win on a woman Take
generally all women bee the best alone being good that while she 's pleas'd she will giue equall loue suspitious sâ—xe and fondly ignorant that will not know the truth least truth should shew the fault in base suspecting without cause Stay stay said Steriamus you grow curst against the louelyest sweetest happiest birth that euer earth did beare your mother was a woman and you must be fauour'd by an other to be blessed with braue posterity Women why blame you them the dearest soules and comforts of our soules Loue in aboundance made you too farre crost blame Loue then not her scorne which surely was not scorne but perfect griefe Be charitable and aske pardon for this sinne for neuer will I giue it other name nor suffer those blessed creatures to sustaine so great abuse as your rage layes on them As thus they were in deep and almost collerick dispute against and for the worth of women kinde Parselius and the Hermit did arriue who went that day together for some foode but when they heard mens voyces and both lowde they went into the Caue and so did end their argument with kind conclusion for straite Parselius was discouered to his deare and louing friend who likewise was with teares of ioy embraced where altogether they remain'd with loue relating still their fortunes which did passe away the time with pleasant sweet content for such was paine to them so truly borne as ioy had gain'd that name if offer'd them But now Pamphilâ—a hasteth homeward and the greatest Lady must dispatch her guests The Queene of all braâ—e beauty and true worth Pamphilia thinking it long to heare her fate in Loue yet daring not for modesty to aske what most she coueted to vnderstand fai gn'd a desire to returne againe vnto her People who expected her this also was a truth and therefore iust excuse The Lady knowing most things also found this drift yet did as finely striue to couer it wherefore one day dinner newly done she tooke her company into a roome the fairest and best furnish'd of that place and by a witty sleight diuided them into the windowes and some pretty places euery one a sunder from their friend each one imagining she was with 'tother then came shee to Pamphilia and thus spake Rarest of women for true loyalty I know your longing which proceeds from loue aâ—d grieue I doe that I cannot be blessed with power to tell that happinesse you seeke but Destiny that gouernes all our liues hath thus ordain'd you might be happy had you power to wedd but daintinesse and feare will hinder you I cannot finde that you shall marry yet nor him you most affect many afflictions you must vndergoe and all by woman kinde beware of them and so the better speed Pamphilia onely sigh'd and turnd her blushing face vnto the window while the Lady went vnto Vrania to whom she thus discours'd Fayrest and sweetest leaue off your laments for ignorance of your estate and know that you are daugher to a mighty King and sister to the brauest liuing Prince the honour of all Knights and glory of his Country renowned Amphilanthus the manner and the reason of your losse shall bee brought to you in a fitter place Now for your loue alas that I must say what Destinie foretels you shall be happy and enioy but first death in apparance must possesse your dainty bodie when you shall reuiue with him you now loue to another loue and yet as good and great as hee Bee not offended for this is your fate nor bee displeased since though that must change it is but iust change bringing it from him alike disquieted The Lady left her who impatient of her ill went to Pamphilia whom shee found still without speech and as if one would say fix'd like the heauen while the world of her thoughts had motion in her griefe Vrania likewike vex'd in her soule shew'd in her face the small content shee knew they both stood gazing in each others face as if the shining day Starre had stood still to looke her in a glasse their bloud had left their cheeks and sunke into their hearts as sent in pitty downe to comfort them at last assured confidence did come and plead for part and so they sate and spake while Mellissea pass'd vnto the King to whom shee onely told that faire Vrania was his sister and that although so deare to him yet to make her liue contentedly he and none else must throw her from the Rocke of St. Maura into the Sea feare not but doe it said shee for this must make her liue and forget her vnfortunate loue which vertue that water hath For his Loue she did assure him hee was bless'd in that if being certaine of her heart could bring it him but yet said she Nay say no more cry'd he this is enough and let me this enioy I le feare no ills that Prophesies can tell Then went he to the window where hee found the sad sweet couple whom he comforted kissing his Sister and with eyes of ioy telling Pamphilia he was happy yet then Ollorandus came and so Perissus with his Queen who Mellissea had assuredly foretold the constant being of their happy dayes Antissius was the ioyfull'st man aliue for he had such a lucky fortune giuen as to loue well and to bee well belou'd and what was most to gaine that he most sought and happily still to continue so the like had Selarina so as well it might be said these of all the others had the happiest states Good Allimarlus and his louing loue had promise to obtaine so all are bless'd but those to whom best blessings did belong All thus resolu'd they thinke of their returne Pamphilia homewards needs would take her way but Amphilanthus gain'd so much at last with helpe of faire Vrania and the rest as she resolu'd to see Morea first therfore sent Mellisander vnto Pamphilia to satisfie the Councell of her course and to assure them of her speedy coÌ„ming to them after she had seene her Fathers Court so with kind farewells they left Delos soone after landing in Messenia and with all this royall troope came to the aged King whose ioy was expresselesse grown to see this company the glory of those parts Much did he welcome faire Vrania glad in his heart to see her who he knew would bring such comfort content vnto her father his beloued friend Feasts were proclaim'd throughout the kingdom Iusts and all exercises were brought forth to welcome these braue Princes to the Court Pamphilia's honour honouring all the rest yet could noâ— that or any other ioy though all ioyes were so plentifully there as bare accepting had inioyed them giue least delight to her whose wounded heart did feede vpon the sore was lately giuen by cursed fore-telling of her loosing fate Into the garden woods her old sad walke she therefore went and there as sadly did againe complaine Alas Pamphilia said shee lucklesse soule what cruell Planet
and did view his eyes if on me cast but in a cruell sort so farre I was from any power or true ability to touch of wrongs or to beg poore compassion as I stood amazed trembling and euen as one cast vnto death Then did I silently lament this harme and mournefully bewaile my misery speaking vnto my selfe as if to him and frame his answers like vnto his lookes then weepe and spend whole nights in this distresse my heart almost vnable to sustaine so curst a Dialogue as I had framd millions of times to vexe my soule withal at last I writ a letter I remember these being the contents and almost the same words IF what I write may prooue displeasing vnto you I wish my hand had lost the vse to write when I writ this my eyes sight for seeing it and my heart had then rent with sorrow for punishment in so offending you who for al your cruelty can do no other then loue you still But the affliction that I am fallen into by your change makes me send these lines vnto you to beseech you by the loue you once bare me to let me know the cause of your great strangenesse towards me if proceeding from my part be iust and tell it me who will not onely curse my selfe for doing it but with all true humilitie demand a pardon for it my soule is purely yours in loue vntoucht vnstaind of any blame or spot faith was the ground whereon I placed my loue loyalty the hope I held it with and my selfe your most vnfained louer the poore creature to bee looked vpon with reward for these but you giue scorne alas once looke on me that beautie which decayed now in me once pleas'd you best when wasted it but in those yeares I still was true and chast to you if my face be not so faire my mind is fairer cloath'd in truth and loue and thus will I euer deserue you more then any pity me alas I craue it and most iustly from your hands Did I neglect at any time what I did owe to pay vnto your will if so my confidence might make me erre but neuer did I willingly commit such fault blame then the trust I had and iust assurance of my confidence in you will you reiect me since I pine for you the teares which still for you I shed haue marr'd and dull'd mine eyes and made me worthlesse to behold looke then but on my faith and pitty me who will die as I was and am which is sincerely yours This I read this I corrected and often staind with blots which my true teares in falling as I writ had made I sent it by a youth who still had lou'd me and did serue my loue he gaue it him one morning as he waked his answere was that he would speake with me The next day he did come and found me in my bed bathing my self in my poore yet choice teares he most vnkindly onely sat him downe not once so much as looking on my woes or me speaking these words with eies another way voice displeasd You writ a hansom letter did you not said he Alas said I what should I do opprest I am half mad distracted with your scorne I could not silent be nor yet could speake You wrong'd your self said he Wherein cri'd I With that he rose not giuing me so much as kind or vnkind looks spake to another whom he cald in and so together left me and my woe After that time hee stroue by all plaine waies and craftie slights and all to make me see how I was cast away and left by him I patiently did seeme to beare my losse but oh my heart could not let me doe so though in the day I stroue to couer griefe in night time I did open all the doores and entertaine each seruant that woe had Once I remember after many moneths that this disaster had befallen mee hee merrily did speake among vs all and also to me as one among the rest and the greatest stranger to his thoughts I ioyed that so he fauoured me for though he vsed mee as but if in triall of my truth I earnestly loued him and ioyed to see him my poore cold heart did warme it selfe to thinke of what had past and leapt when I saw him but yet that leape was like or did resemble a strong conuultionat the latest gaspe for then it fell downe dead in my despaire but being thus together hee was pleased to say some verses to mee which were good and truly such as I did much affect I thought they were his owne and so was vext because to me they did not then belong as once all that he made or framed were He did commend them very much himselfe and said he liked the strength that was in them I said they were most good and like him which made them much the better so discoursing on I tooke the boldnesse to say something to him knowing that they might speake in kind for me and yet my selfe not beg againe they were these WHen I with trembling aske if you loue still My soule afflicted lest I giue offence Though sensibly discerning my worst ill Yet rather then offend with griefe dispence Faintly you say you must poore recompence When gratefull loue is force I see the hill Which marrs my prospect loue and Oh from thence I tast and take of losse the poison'd pill While one coale liues the rest dead all about That still is fire so your loue now burnd out Tells what you were though to deceiuing led The Sunne in Summer and in Winter shewes Like bright but not like hot faire false made blowes You shine on me but you loues heate is dead He made no answere but onely said they were very fine ones after this he continued in his peremptory course of hating me and I in my poore way of suffering all till so ill I did grow as though not in him yet in each one els I did obtaine what I did claime from him for they did sorrow for my miserie and he still triumph as if in a gaine to ouerthrow a soule giuen to his will At last extremitie of griefe and paine brought me vnable to doe any thing those that best did consider my mishape iustly did know the cause others smile and say 't was for I was forsaken others laugh and say I was growne dull some said my prose was gone and that I onely could expresse my selfe in verse These I did heare and this in truth had troubled me if greater matters had not shut my eares and heart from weighing such slight things as these I gaue my selfe then wholly to the fields nor kept I any company but with my flocke and my next kindred which would visit me With my poore sheepe I did discourse and of their liues make my descipherd life rockes were my obiects and my daily visits meekenesse my whole ambition losse my gaine and thus I liu'd and thus still
ranne to death But one day as I past among the rocks which were both steepe yet easie to ascend the countrie hilly the earth blacke the mourning onely couerd with Heath and stones to expresse the ill nature of that soile I went still in it till at last descending one of the steepest and most ragged of those hills the top of which was crownd with milke white rocks in bignesse strange and fashion farre more rare I sat downe in a stone of mighty height which like a chaire in iust proportion did giue mee roome and ease Yet some thing vnsafe it was to looke downe for those whose eyes will dazell if on any high place for the height was great and that stood as if onely framd to sit and see the bottome directly vnder Looking a while I saw some folkes below and as it were a Spring where they did drinke I left the rocke then and did straight descend vnto the Plaine the descent was not tedious but slippery When I thither came of all the company one man was able to declare any thing of the nature of it for the rest were strangers and not the same Countrimen I ciuilly demanded if that spring were medicinable or what made them with so much affectionate ceremony to drinke and as it were adore it That man made answere it was that diuine and sacred water which did cure all harmes I blamd him knowing he had said too much since only one was fit to bee termed so but he more seruant to adoration then diuinity told me many strange works that water had performd I did for nouelties take of the streame drinking of it I found it did me no harme Then I demanded what it would procure he said Quiet of spirit comfort in this life How long I demanded ought we to drinke thereof Seuen times he replied and thrice seuen dayes I liuing not farre off resolu'd the task and dranke and found such good as soone I was alterd in al things but my truth which now alone to me remaines vnharmd my whole condition alterd I grew free and free from loue to which I late was slaue Then finding this true vertue in my selfe and my poore selfe returnd to me againe I did embrace it in the same true sort that loue held me and so we did agree I loue my selfe my selfe now loueth me But after to auoid all new delights or to bee sued too or intised againe â— put on these habits hoping by purenesse and vowed chastity to win Diana's fauour which now is all my ambition and my hope Thus here I liue in expectation not assurance of her acceptance into this Brooke I oftentimes doe goe and now was going iust as you did come remembrance of my faith I keepe and ioy alone in that without desire or thought of loues varietie My daies remaining I haue giuen to truth and as a Nimph I still will here remaine my name I also changed with my life from Allarina to Siluiana these habits keepe me from discourse with men my vow from yeelding so I now liue free and vncontrold of Fortunes selfe My Mistrisse I adore â— keepe her Feasts deuoutly and thus I doe remaine your humblest Vassall mighty Princesse else sole Mistrisse of my thoughts and freedomes rule Happy you are said the excellent Queene so to bee able to master your selfe but did you neuer see him since you wore these habits Oft-times great Princesse said she I haue seene him and so perceiued desire new in him to win me back but now it is too late I must confesse who once had told me I could haue beheld his face without my soules affection to it I should hardly haue belieued it much more to find my heart so free from loue as now it is and as he made himselfe to me euen a meere stranger so are now mine eyâ—s and thoughts as farre from touch of loue as if I had been borne neuer to know loue or such passions when as once my eyes hung after him as steru'd without his sight my soule lou'd him as a blessing and I was indeed only his now am I free my selfe void of those troubles loue prouoked in me I can with quietnes heare all his acts see him this day intolerably fond of one I hated then change to a new all that mooues not me saue only that I out of pity pity their ill haps Once I was iealous vext if hee did throw by chance a looke on any but my selfe that fault he punisht with his sterne neglect plagueing me in the sharpest kind striuing to make me see his change and scornefully expressing to my sight disdaine of me and fondnesse in such loues These are requited now he growne to pitie when I scorne to take it he to loue me when I am vowed else-where thus loue rewarded is with scorne and scorne with pitilesse regard returning home I cannot yet belieue said Pamphilia but you loue him still for all this liberall and excellent discourse I neuer will liue houre said Siluiana to hate him though I am made free from bond of vaine affection thus much truly I doe still remaine his friend and seruant to defend him from all harmes I may by my respect make void and were it in my way to doe him though a iust ill turne and many leagues off I might doâ— him good that iourney I would take yet loue I not ought but faire chastitie This sweet discourse concluded the braue Queene tooke leaue of the fine Nymph and so returnd with promise when she hunted in those parts she would find her then going to the Court she went into her chamber to take rest little of that sufficed her for though great as any yet in loue was as much subiect as the meanest borne Pamphilia said she can thy great spirit permit thee to bee bound when such as Allarina can haue strength to master and command euen loue it selfe Scorne such seruilitie where subiects soueraignize neuer let so meane a thing ore-rule thy greatest power either command like thy self or fall downe vassall in despaire Why should fond loue insult or venture in thy sight let his babish tricks be priz'd by creatures vnder thee but disdaine thou such a gouernment Shall blindnes master thee and guide thee looke then sure to fall Shall way ward folly rule thee looke to be despis'd Shall foolish wantonnes intice thee hate such vice Shall children make thee follow their vaine tricks scorne then thy selfâ— and all such vanities Yet when all this is said and that the truest knowledge tells me these are true my wounded heart with bleeding doth professe vassalladge to the great and powerfull might of loue I am prisoner guard me then deere loue keepe me but safely free from yeelding and keepe me as thou hast already made me thine Much of the time she had to be at rest she thus imploy'd then rysing the day telling her all brightnesse waited on her she rose and went to the sweete Limena
not to prolong time or amaze you with discourse alas that I must say these words deerest Vrania I must throw thee into the Sea pardon me Heauen appoints it so My deerest brother sayd she what neede you make this scruple You wrong me much to thinke that I feare death being your sister or cheerish life if not to ioy my parents fulfill your command and be assured it is doubly welcome comming to free me from much sorrow and more since giuen mee by your hands those hands that best I loue and you to giue it me for whose deare sake I onely lou'd to liue and now as much delight and wish to die Kinde teares proceeded from them both and mournfull silence did possesse their tongus till she againe besought and hee refused but yet at last resoluing if she perish'd to ende with her he tooke her in his armes and gently let her slide shewing it rather to be her slipping from him then his letting her fall and as shee fell so fell his heart in woe drownd in as deepe an Ocean of despaire but soone was he call'd to wonder and all ioy for no sooner had she suncke into the water but the waues did beare her vp againe to shewe the glory they had in bearing such perfections but then the Deepes ambitious of such a prize sought to obtaine her opening their hearts to let her sincke into them when two men in a boate came rowing towards her and one who lay in a craggy part of the Rocke furiously threw himselfe vnto her she only saying Liue happy Amphilanthus and my onely deare Parselius farewell that calld him who leaping in cry'd Parselius will neuer out-liue Vrania and sunke straight with her then were both pulled vp and safely brought to land by the help of the other two who leaping out of their boat into the sea spared not danger or life it selfe all foure then soundly washed came a shoare where Amphilanthus embraced them and with teaâ—es of ioy welcom'd his sister and his friends who now well vnderstood the operation of that water for Parselius knew nothing of his former loue to her onely the face of Vrania and being assured of her neerenesse to him in bloud reioyced with them the others did the like Now was Steriamus released of his vnfortunate loue esteeming Pamphilia wholly for her worth not with passion thinking of her Vrania's desires were no other then to goe into Italy to see her father and Dolorindus to accompany his friends whither they would goe Thus happily were all deliuered of the most burdenous tormenting affliction that soules can know Loue and Loue was pleased because now he might haue new worke in new kinds Parselius longs to see his Dalinea Vrania wisheth it also without iealousie or anger but loues her heartily for her Cosins sake most happy Princesse to be deliuerd from such a hell as louing him who had although so neere to her been so farre from truth to her Amphilanthus was so ouercome with comfort and ioy discerning this fortunate and blessed issue of the aduentures as kindnesse now wrought like sorrow then embracing all they tooke to the boats the Hermit going with them to the Iland where with kind louing perswasions they inuited him to leaue that place and to accompany them thence but hee excused himselfe promising to be ready at any time to doe them seruice but his vow he could not breake then he intreated them that if by chance in their trauels they happened into Dalmatia they would enquire for his vnfortunate daughter Bellemira and by some meanes to let him vnderstand of her They promised this so with more kind farewels they parted from the Hermit and at Amphilanthus eaâ—nest intreaty went together for Italy where they arriued and so past vnto the Court But what ioy what content did all hearts feele in seeing the Princesse of true worth and admiration returnd Then did the old king whose haire and beard like snow make a true resemblance of it ioy like the Sun heating and melting so did ioy melt his hart into teares they like a thaw dropping on the lower snow he held them in his armes they kneeld he kist them but could not speake so was he wrapped and ouerwhelmd with ioy At last Amphilanthus spake beseeching him to salute the other Princes which he did and then turnd to them and againe kissed and embraced them This being past they were conducted to their lodgings Vrania hauing rich robes fit for her birth brought vnto her till then hauing worne her Shepherdesse attire which she resolu'd to doe as long as she liu'd vnseene of her father only to receiue them from his hands Now was Italy fild with delight being the pleasing'st and delightful'st of any sports are new inâ—â—nted to giue welcome and Iusts proclaimed wherein these Knights must also shew their skil the Ladies came from al parts to see Vrania the Knights to honor Amphilanthus the first day of the Iusts the King being ready to go forth of the Hall to the lists there entred an old man in habit like a Pilgrim with a staffe of that fashion in his hands bare-footed and with all demonstration of that life he spake lowd and besought the King to stay till he had deliuerd some things fit for his knowledge then all placing themselues he began thus Most happy King receiue these speeches from me a miserable man if you pitie not a Prince I am by birth but a Villaine by nature Prince I was of Istria and brother to the King of Dalmatia proud I was and accompanying that vice I had malice and all ill abiding in mee which causd a detestable treason in me for hearing many prophesies likelihoods of the greatnes worth of Amphilanthus I studied how I might any way crosse the successe he then being but of tender yeares scarce hauing attained to seuen yeares of age but that which most moou'd me was that a learned man said he should rule ouer the greatest part of the world and liue to be Lord of my Country alsoâ— to auoid this I vowed to loose no meanes or opportunitie wherefore I went to the Court of my brother where there then liu'd a great and a wise man this man confirm'd what before I had heard adding more vnto it for his increase of honour for he had cast his natiuitie hauing gaind it from one who was at the birth of the worlds wonder your sonne Vpon this I disguised my selfe and hither I came into your Country and Court where I found the Queene newly brought to bed of a daughter this I thought might be a meanes for my safety for no magicke could withstand the happy fortune of Amphilanthus though a danger he should fall into vncertaine to recouer it and by a woman So determining to haue my ends some way hauing some skill in Magicke I cast a sleepe vpon all the attendants where the babe lay and being in an euening tooke the child and conueyed it away
and brought it to that passe that in fiue courses there was little aduantage but then Polarchos knowing his conclusion was neere an end like a man that in earnest desird to win his Ladyes loue encounterd him and stroke him flat on his backe passing only with the losse of his stirrops so the honour was giuen him and the other vnknowne got away as hee came but with somewhat lesse reputation yet no shame since hee did best of forty that Iusted of that Court. Thus the Iusts had end and Polarchos with much honor was brought into the Court wher he continued some daies hauing now finished his charge departed for Rhodes with all louely triumphant trophies At Rhodes he was receiued kindly of all except his mistris who examining al that he had done and finding none of the famous women among them told him that those were nothing to her vnlesse he had brought Pamphilias Vranias Selarinas and Limenas pictures or that he had ouerthrowne Parselius Rosindy Steriamus Selarinus Perissus Leandrus or such Knights looking with so despightfull a contempt on him as it a new moued his passions into a still continuing hate for he seeing this and all his labour no more esteemd grew to abhorring that which before he sought and scorne what he ador'd Is all my labour said he requited thus the trauells the hazards I haue runne into rewarded with this slightnesse Farewell fond vnworthy woman and when Polarchos next seekes thee vse him thus now I hate thee and will no more euer see thee or thinke of thee if not with scorne With that hee flung out of her presence and straight went to his lodging where he meant to stay that night onely and the next day take his iourney homeward but he was thus preuented for she seeing his minde alter'd and how like she was to fall into this losse she call'd her trustiest seruants to her and gaue them charge how to fulfill her commands which they accomplish'd for in the dead time of the night when hee slept secure from Loue passions which were wont to hold his eyes open and busie his soule hee now freed from them enioyed quiet rest till he was disturb'd by the rude rushing in of certaine men into his Chamber who taking him vnprouided layd hold of him and binding him with cords and yron chaines carried him into a strong towre which was on the topp of the Castle the windowes bard thicke with yron nothing else to keepe Sunne or cold from him no bed but the hard floore nor meate but bread and water Thus he liu'd a while true spectacle of misfortune in vnfortunate loue those hands that lately defended her beauty now bound for maintaining so false a shadow and all the honour he gaind for her turnd to disdained hate surely a iust punishment when worth carries a sword against worth to defend the opposite Poore Polarchos into what affliction art thou broughtâ— how will thy friends lament thy misfortune and redresse thy wrongs if they may attaine but the knowledge of it but thus thou must yet continue tortured for thy too great goodnesse Amphilanthus hauing now recouerd his strength pretily well came vnto his father one day telling him what promise he had made vnto his cosin the Queene of Pamphilia to conduct her home and therfore besought his leaue to depart and also permission for Vrania's going besides Steriamus was now to proceed in his businesse concerning the recouery of his kingdome these he said and no other should haue carried him from his presence This indeed was true and so gaind he the libertie he demanded though with hearty grief to part with them the Queene was also sorry for he was their dearest child yet his honour was more deare to them Then tooke he leaue of all the court and and with his braue companions and sweet Vrania tooke shipping for Morea Perissus hauing all this while continued in Arcadia with the King faine would take leaue of them but the happy newes of their arriuall did stay him If the Morean King were vpon this euen rauished with ioy none can blame him since he â—ad at that time the whole worth of the world in his presence Pamphilia neuer more contented hauing her two dearest brothers with her whither also soone came Philarchos to fill vp their ioyes bringing with him his beautifull and chastly louing Orilena all were full of comfort all comforted with this happinesse brauery of Knighthood shin'd there the onely beauty of vertue and vertuous beautie was there assembled As thus the Court was florishing in glory despising any sorrow a sad spectacle cald them one morning a little to compassion a Lady in mourning attire attended on with numbers of Knights and Ladies likewise in that habit came into the Hall the Ladies face couered with a blacke Vaile next to her followed an other Lady carrying a most sweete and dainty child in her armes shee comming to the State did not kneele downe but threw her selfe at the Kings â—eete crying out with such pitifull moane as all hearts did ioyne as in loue to condole with her Long it was before shee could bring forth any thing at last O my Lord said she as euer you had compassion of an afflicted creature verifie it in fauour shewed to mee I am a Lady and a miserable soule forlorne by fortune and my loue I was resolute but alas what woman can see my yeeres and still continue so I was deceiued and am and this now grieueth me Assist me gratious Prince it is alone in you to redresse my harme then doe it and doe it to her who suffers by your bloud The King was amazed not beeing able to guesse at the businesse yet taking her vp desired to know more of it promising his best power and aide in it The businesse then my Lord said shee is this I am dishonoured if you helpe not one of your Knights trauelling in search of a friend of his vnfortunately for mee lighted on my house where I with ciuility and courteous manner intertaind him so well hee liked the place and then my selfe as hee neuer ceased continuall importunity woing and sparing no meanes to win his end till hee procured this end for me yet being chastly bred and honouring vertue aboue all respects or passions I would not consent till he married me then wee kept together some times he leauing all other courses contented to obscure himselfe his name and estate to be in my armes happinesse to me like assurance of heauen for as heauen I lou'd him and would not refuse any danger his loue might expose me vnto But he hauing enioyd his desires and seeing I had no hidden beautie more for varietie to delight him with all hee left mee with a faigned excuse neuer since hauing so much as looked after me or let me know hee liu'd What torment this was to me Great King confider but most finding my selfe with child then came the hazard of my honour in mind the danger of
my disgrace the staine I might bring to my house for few will belieue vs poore women in such extremity but rather will increase our infamy What paine euer was sufferd by woman I indur'd in soule and body till the time of my deliuery came when God sent me this babe hauing gaind some little strength I left my Country and hither am I come vnknowne to any humbly to craue your fauour one of your Knights hath done me this abuse and therefore from your hands I implore right Sweete Lady said the King I pitie much your fortune but tell mee who this Knight is and I vow he shall not stay in my Court or fauour if hee doe not before me satisfie you so as this can be verified against him Sir said she if one of these words I haue spoken bee false let shame and perpetuall losse requite me no Sir I haue spoken onely truth and desire but to be iustified yet wiâ—h I not so great an ill to befall him for God knowes my soule is purely his louing him as it selfe and but for him would haue so much tried the sincerenesse of it Then call I beseech you your Knights together and of them demaund what they will alot me I will be disposd of by your selfe and them for iustly may I put my selfe to you since he is no other that hath abused me but your owne sonne the winning and forsaking Parselius The King at this grew infinitely troubled not knowing what to say or doe in it at last he cald his sonne who all this while was talking with Leandrus about Pamphilia he comming to him the king demanded of him if he would vpon his Honour resolue him directly of one thing he would demand nay more he charged him on his blessing not to conceale that from him which he was to aske He vow'd nothing should make him answere false Then tell me said hee haue you a child or are you married to any without my knowledge He fell straight on his knees If euer cry'd he I gaue my word to marry any or had a child by any let Heauen blesse you said the Lady staying him from further proceeding Vow not said she for neuer knew I man bâ—t you and you are husband to me and father to this babe Her voyce he thâ—n began to know yet being impossible as hee thought for Dalinea to 〈…〉 her he desired to see her face Nay said she first promise to bee iust before your father and this royall presence confirme what priuately before onâ—â—â—â—ee you vow'd in sacred marriage What I did vow said he I neuer will denyâ— then royall Father said hee heare mee with patience and fauour and yet before I speake call Leandrus hither so he was cald when Parselius with eyes fild with teares thus began Wretch that I was wandring in search of my friend Amphilanthus as I pretended but indeede that onely was not my voyage I fell into the confines of Achaya where I met Berlandis who came to seeke me from his Lord and to intreat my company in finishing the warre for Antissius I consented but passing through that Country I chanced to come to the Castle of Dalinea your faire and vertuous Sister her I fell in loue withall forgot all former vowes and truths in loue her I sought flatter'd wept to protested what loues art could instruct me in but all in vaine vertue in her was a strong rocke against my vehement suite till at the last pitie procured reward to me shee granted on the making her my wife I did that willingly and as my only happinesse But long I had not thus enioyed her but one sad night I dream'd of my first Loue who furiously reuild me for my change then sent reuenge in scorne and worst contempt I waked distracted shee deare shee my wife was grieued with my paine asked the true cause complaind with me grieu'd with mee wept with me who wept to cousen her yet I was forc'd to it At last I made a faignd excuse and by that meanes liberty to goe From thence I parted after lost my Page flying from all but sadnesse which did liue fed by my sorrow pressed with the heauiest weight of soule-felt-mourning I got vnto the sea and so shipt and saild to St. Maura where with an Hermit graue and poore I wasted out some time till sweet diuine Vrania was by her deare brother throwne into the sea I saw her fall and heard her cry farewell I leapt vnto her and so came a shore by helpe of Steriamus and his friend good Dolorindus Straight I found the good for then all fortunes pass'd in my cross'd loue I quite forgot nay that I had e're lou'd so farre was passion from me yet the loue chaste loue of Dalinea as my wife I yet retaine and onely she doe I affect and loue This Sir is true and humbly I aske pardon for my fault which I had meant more priuately to haue confess'd and you Leandrus pray now pardon me your Sister hath lost nothing by this match nor shall haue reason to complaine of me if true affection and a loyall loue can merit loues requitall from her breast I know she lou'd me and I loue but her For you sad Lady if you be not she you wrong your selfe extreamely and I vow that but her selfe I neuer yet did touch nor euer will then seeke another husband and a father for your child I 'le seeke no other answered shee then take your loyall Dalinea to your selfe and this was Dalinea whose firme loue but violent had brought her to that place despairing of Parselius and his loue Parselius tooke her in his armes and scarce could satisfie himselfe with ioy to see his dearest Dalinea The King forgaue them and with fatherly affection wept and kiss'd her and the babe then did Leandrus embrace them both shee asking pardon and Parselius too he did forgiue and so all were content Vrania as vntouch'd with loue or anger likewise welcomd her so did all else the mourning was cast off and all the ioy express'd that clothes or Triumphs could produce but Pamphilia admiringly beheld Vrania and her Brother at last O loue said â—hâ—e what strange varieties are here assuredly none but thy seruants can let such wauerings possesse them protect mee yet from such distresse and let me be ordaind or licensed to be the true patterne of true constancy and let my loue be loyall to me These passions oft did vexe her and perplexe her soule one day especially when all alone in the Woods â—hee thus did complaine Neuer at quiet tormenting passion what more canst thou desire What couet that thou hast not gaind in absence thou dost molest me with those cruell paines in presence thou torturest me with feare and despaire then dost burne with desire to obtaine yet sealest vp my lipps from discouering it leaue these contrarieties and make me liue peaceably and so happily scorch'd I am with heate of doubt my hopes are burnd to ashes
would come with it else desird he would wedd me to my graue rather then to any but Alanius whom onely I did or could loue and one whom I had not placed my affections vpon alone but life and all hope of comfort How he was moou'd with this alas sigh'd shee imagine you truely so much as being by nature cholericke I verily thought he would haue kill'd me his eyes sparkled with furie his speech was stopp'd so as not being able to bring foorth one word he flung out of the roome locking mee fast vp for that night without hope or comfortable company but my owne sorrow and teares which neuer left me and those were more pleasing to mee when I said to my selfe thus doe I suffer for Alanius The next morning he sent one of his seruants to me a young Ladd who loued me well but was faster tied in seruice to your command said she to me once ouerioy'd when you sent him to attend a Knight and after your going away also left that Iland whether to seeke you and so to serue you or hating the poorenesse of that place when you were absent but this youth being sent by my Father to know if I continued in the same disobedience I was in the night before I sent him word that I should hate my selfe if my conscience should euer be able to accuse me of such an offence but true it was my loue continued as firme and vnremouable to Alanius as it did for alas what can change a constant heart which is fixed like Destiny I could not let any thing come neere me which might be mistrusted to lead one piece of change or carry one ragg of it abroad my heart like the Woole the briars catch torne and spoil'd rather then pull'd from it O intolerable seruitude where fast holding is a losse and loosing a gaine yet rather had I lose while I keepe vertuous constancie With the answer I gaue return'd the youth wherupon without seeing me he sent me to a Sisters house of his to bee kept and sorry I am I must call her his Sister or keepe this memory of her for a more diuellish creature neuer liu'd there I was halfe a yeare without meanes to let Alanius know of my imprisonment he sought guided by loue for mee but hauing no truer a director found me not till one day comming with his Flocks as hee was accustomed to doe into the faire Plaine where we were wont to meet he mett this Ladd who seeing him sadd asked what he ayl'd Alanius replide how can he choose but mourne whose heart is kept from him Indeed said he I cannot blame you hauing such a losse and yet sure you haue a heart in place of it else could you not liue to feele and discouer the want of yours but did you know what tormenting sorrow she feeles for you you would yet be more perplexed Wretch that I am cryed he can shee bee tormented and for me and liue I to heare of it without redressing it Yet what talke I foole that I am Can my cries ayde her Can the baying of my Lambes assist her Can my poore Flocke buy her freedome Can I merit her release Or can indeed my selfe thinke I am worthy or borne to such a blessednesse as to releeue her vext and harm'd for me What power hast thou but ouer thy teares to flow for her What assistance but sheepe innocent as thy selfe and loyall passion What Armes but thy Sheepe-hooke which can onely catch a beast while thou vnworthy crâ—ature art not able to helpe her The poorest thing can assist a friend of the same kinde but thou canst neither helpe her nor thy selfe worst of things created end and rid the World of such corruption for why should I breath if not to serue Liana You may serue her and relieue her said the youth if you will heare and but take aduise and more will I doe for you then I would for any other since I find you loue her as indeed you ought to doe Then be satisfied thus farre if you will trust me who will neuer be but true I will tell you where she is and giue you all assistance towards her deliuery She is in yonder house vpon the top of that hill which shewes it self as boldly boasting in the cruelty is committed there by warrant of a cruell father with her Aunt she is yet still your Liana so close kept as none saue my selfe may see her who from her father visits her once a day though not for loue that he sends but to trie if by his vnfatherly tortures shee may bee wrought to leaue louing you but so much he failes in this as it is impossible by famine to make one leaue to wish for food but rather with the want to increase the longing to it which he seeing threatneth the forsaking her Oft haue I carried this message and as oft returnd sorrowfull receiuing his doome but direct deniall to his demaunds and truly it hath euen grieu'd my soule to see how terribly she hath been perplext and handled by those rude and merciles executors of his will who can no way alter her if not to blame them for their curstnes who neuer was but mild to them and this morning did I see her when she vtterd these words Alas said she vnhappy Liana how art thou afflicted for thy constancy yet this tell my father his kind commands had more wrought in me then his cruelty yet neither against my loialty in loue but now so hardned I am against paine with vse of paine as all torment and millions of them added to the rest shall haue no power to moue the least in my affection to vnworthy change for then should my soule smart as onely now my body is subiect to these torments This I told truly to my Master who nothing was mou'd by it but to more rage sending another of my fellowes to his sister coniuring her that since neither perswasions nor the begun tortures would preuaile she should vse any other means with what affliction she could to alter her sparing none so her limmes were not harmd by them which no doubt shall bee executed Wherefore you must thinke speedily to aide her who indures for you still resolud to beare misery for you and assure your self she wil indure al can be laid vpon her rather then faile in one title to you or Loues fealty and no way I know more sure and speedy then to write her a letter which I will deliuer and therein let her know the true and constant affection you beare her which will bring sole comfort to her dolefull heart and that if she wil venture to bring her selfe to happines in freedom and to make you mutually contented she must meet you in the little wood next below the house where you will not faile her carry her from these miseries into all delight and pleasure Ah my deare friend said he how hast thou bound me by thy friendship and
the priuatest places and striuing to gaine the sea which soone after I obtaind getting the opportunity of a youths passing into Italy who had sought Perissus to bring him notice of his Vncles death the King of Sicily with him I passed and so came into this country where euer since I haue romingly endured neuer in any one place setled The youth Menander and I parted at the sea he I thinke going to seeke his Master or rather you then did shee close her speech with multitudes of teares which truly mooud mee to much compassion beginning then to hold her deare to me I perswaded her to leaue that life and liue with me who would accompany her sorrowes rather then afflict her with mirth and besides it might bee in my company shee might gaine remedy for her torture No remedy but death said shee can I haue and too long O me haue I sought that yet to obay you I will abide some time here and but here in these woods beseeehing you not to vrge me to the Court when the poorest place much better doth agree with my estate I to enioy her conuersation granted to any thing concluding that I should often visit her and so passe our times together in louing discourse This said Amphilanthus by your fauour sweete sister prooues you loue the water it seemes hath not so thorowly washed away your affection but reliques remaine of the old passion No truly dearâ—st brother said shee all those thoughts are cleane droun'd but yet I will goe on with my story Doe deare Sister said he and begin againe at But yet She blusht to find he had taken her and yet daintily proceeded That promise most religiously was kept betweene vs euery day I visiting my Shepherdesse But one day as we were together discoursing and walking in the wood we heard one not farre from vs sadly to sing an od kind of song which I remember getting afterwards the coppy of it and if I bee not deceiu'd sweet Cosin said she you will like it also the song was this speaking as if she had by him and the words directed to her as his thoughts were YOu powers diuine of loue-commanding eyes Within whose lids are kept the fires of loue Close not your selues to ruiue me who lies In bands of death while you in darkenesse moue One looke doth giue a sparck to kindle flames To burne my heart a martyr to your might Receiuing one kind smile I find new frames For loue to build me wholly to your light My soule doth fixe all thoughts vpon your will Gazing vnto amazement greedy how To see those blessed lights of loues-heauen bow Themselues on wretched me who else they kill You then that rule loues God in mercy flourish Gods must not murder but their creatures nourish Pamphilia much commended it which pleased Vrania infinitely touching as she thought her one estate while a proper song and well composd truly said Amphilanthus is this to be so much liked but my cosin only doth it to please you No in truth said Pamphilia it deserues in my iudgement much liking he smild on her Vrania going on you seeme Brother said she a little willing to crosse me this day but I will proceed in discourse The song you are pleasd to iest at being ended the same voyce againe did begin to lament in this manner If scorne be ordaind the reward for true loue then I am fully requited if firme affection must be rewarded with contempt and forsaking I am richly pay'd but if these deserue a sweet payment which alone consisteth in deare loue then am I iniurd and none more causelesly afflicted or cruelly reiected Loue suffer what thou wilt faith indure all neglect but euer be your selues pure and vnspotted Vnkind Liana yet pardon me for calling thee so since my heart grieues at that word vnkind yet giue me leaue to tell thee I haue not deseru'd this punishment from thee nor merited this rigor if anothers offence may make me faulty I am most guilty els as free as my loue still is to thee from blame or thought of staine in it art thou not then vniust sweete Iudge of all my harmes to punish me without a fault committed Pitie me yet and recall the censure wrongfully giuen on me condemned without a cause and still led on towards execution in daily tortures without merit Did any man die for anothers act then I must also suffer that tiranny else consider falfe iudgement is a shame vnto the Iudge and will lie heauy on his conscience call backe then e're I die this vnmerited verdict since my truth with-stands thy cruelty I would with Liana haue gone to see who this was that thus accused her but that we heard him againe say some Verses which being concluded we went to him but as wee went we heard another speake vnto him thus Alanius why doe you thus accuse Liana and torment your selfe with that which were shee certaine of shee would and must pity you nor can you blame her for flying you seeing as we both belieued your vnkindnesse and foule error Alas said Alanius farre be it from me euer to blame her nor can my soule permit me to loue her lesse though she were curst nay were she false I yet should loue her best but being by you assured of her truth giue me leaue to blame her rashnes and curse my owne ill fortune and vnluckie life which gaue and giues such dislike and smart vnto my dearer selfe and my sad daies Liana now knew not what to doe when she was certaine this complainer was Alanius and the other as she did imagine Menander but I willing to reconcile such broken fortunes made her goe towards him accompaning her sorrowes my selfe When being neere him and he looking vp perceiuing her without ceremony or regarding me ran vnto her and kneeling downe cry'd out these words Alas my deare Liana what hath your vnhappy slaue Alanius deseru'd to be thus pitilesse tortured heare but the truth and before you rashly censure me consider my great wrongs which I still suffer by mistakes in you Liana who loued as much as he and was as equally perplexed yet now a little more if possible bearing her owne and his sorrow for her affliction as being his and caused by her she lifted him vp from the ground and with teares said Think not my Alanius thy Liana can be other to thee then thou wilt haue her be yet blame me not directly for these things since here Menander can resolue thee of the cause yet let that passe and now bee confident thy loue hath such command mee as hadst thou been false she would not say as we imagined thy repentance and thy loued sight should haue destroyd all those thoughts where in offence might haue been borne to thee and so forgetfulnes in mee had gouernd with the memory of thy loue Then rising with a kisse the louers reconcil'd themselues and cast away their mourning but the story being strange where
and remained like a distracted creature till she vrging him and he desiring to satisfie her swore they were none of his nor that euer he receiued any from her O miserable man said he thus to be betrayd what haue I done to be thus plagued and insufferably afflicted Alas my deerest I neuer heard from thee neuer writ to thee but if I had sweetnes and loue should haue beene the subiect and not this False Terichillus this I feare comes from thee for this is thy hand I know it is the same in iest that thou wert wont to counterfeit and hast thou practisd it for this vnkind and cruell man Shee seeing his sorrow and his clearenesse receiued much comfort and taking him againe by the hand happy am I my Lord said shee that shall now ende contented blessed in your loue and cleare from the end I fear'd you had sent me be happy my onely deare and liue with all content let that Lady whosoeuer you shall choose loue you no lesse then I doe let her be as iust and loyall but so much more fortunate for your sake as to liue to enioy you longer Had you beene cruell as you were accused falsely my loue had pardoned it and welcommer had my death beene to me sent by you then life if in dislike of you My soule lou'd you and loues you nor euer suffer'd it shewe of dislike against you I had cleerly passed into the other world without blameing you yet am I happy to see you and your truth before I part I must leaue you my onely loue I must goe and yet this I will beseech you to keep of me the memory of your truest loue and let that memory bee put with loue and not moou'd with rage to reuenge these wrongs he hath done you a fauour it may be in keeping you for a worthyer but neuer can you haue a truer He weeping told her he tooke that last ill that shee would say hee could haue a worthier O no said he that cannot be thy worth cannot be equal'd no more then my wrongs reueng'd sufficiently They both wept then spake a little and so tooke their leaues shee seeing his sorrow was afflicted for it he finding it sought to couer it so he kissed her and went out of the chāber with as dying a heart as she had almost no sooner was he gone but she calling her womā to her willed her to burne those papers thē taking ◠ring from off her finger which was a pointed Diamōd she euer wore had vowed to doe so till she died or married charged her to giue it Antonarus then turning her to the other side tell him said she I bequeath this my truest loue and last loue to him so I coniure him to keepe these She went to performe her command he instantly with the rest of the company came in but there they found her dead It was alas too late to recouer her but not to giue a more happy end how hee tooke it onely such a loue can expresse which began but when she was dying and enioyed but in death He instantly left the Court and hearing Terichillus had stollen away vpon his comming guiltinesse condemning him he went in search of him putting on an armour as blacke as his sorrowes so he trauelled cloathed in sorrow accompanied with remembrance of her chast and loyall loue her death the treason that caused it the iniury done him yet her spotlesse affection All these were motiues the more he ran from one to the other still the first held him and wrapt him fast in all Thus he went caught in himselfe till hee met Terichillus in a plaine betweene two hills to whom he sent his Squire who was all his company not to discourse with him but to call him to answere the wrongs done to him and his loue when the Squire came to him hee made no answer but this he had cause to call him to account and he would satisfie him so he prepared himselfe and they met where they fought a cruell fight but Antonarus hauing iustice on his side got so much the better as hee had Terichillus vnder him and at his mercy which when he had confest asked pardon of him for his fault he tooke him vp with these words Rise Terichillus thy shame and conscience are sufficient reuengers I will not shed thy bloud which cannot cleanse so foule a fault or satisfie for losse of her so chaste and immaculate make it more cleare and purer if thou canst with true repentance while mine eyes and heart drops fulfill and serue for her funerall Then leap'd he vpon his horse leauing my brother hurt and wounded more with scorne and hate of himselfe so to be saued then kindly thanking him that had done it Away Antonarus posted and came into Morauia to visit me who indeed was onely his seruant Infant Loue on my side haueing made me so he stayd not long but told me all this story for which I lou'd him better then before gratefulnesse hauing large command ouer my hart Hee neuer by my words had knowledge of my loue to him till two yeares after passing by that way and priuately desiring to see me vnfortunately for vs both I did confesse it hee embraced it and so wee lou'd my brother still continuing his hate but in my Fathers time of life did make no publique shew of it Vpon the death of him he tooke the title and first began with open proclamations of his hate and the first forbidding me his company yet where were these proclaimd but in his house and to his priuate friends yet I went further and did warne my loue of him this was the cause hee came not in his sight nor to his knowledge and in hunts-mans habit was the last time I did see him for my brother returned with his wife the watches were made new and stronger ouer me yet loue made them fruitles for on a time appointed we met and meant to keepe together then boldly I writ to my brother telling him what I had done and that I hoped he would excuse me since I had taken him for my husband whom loue and youth had chosen for mee and now was gone with him whom most I loued to liue with and whom I now was happily to obay My brother grew infinitely inraged with this and straight sent out many horses to stay and interrupt our passage but in vaine for we were passed and had laid such spies for them as kept vs free Into Selesia we came finding and bringing with me all content in hauing my owne hearts desire with me Antonarus welcommed me with gift of all his estate I returned that to him againe taking a farre greater as I esteemd it which was himselfe and his true loue my best and only fortune Terichillus this while imagined himself highly iniured wherefore he sent Antonarus word that so ill he tooke this affront as he would with armes regaine his honour touched He replied that
kind Sedelia grieued in her soule for this mischance yet was comforted when she was assured of their safeties then sent shee some to visit them but they could not meet them though they found the noble memories of them in the slaughter but heard by a Pastor that they were wel gon from the old Knights house perfectly whole and recouerd At their returne the Princesse reioyced and in rememberance of Amphilanthus and his friend set vp a piller in that place of excellent richnesse and bignes in which was curiously engrauen that famous victory the Abby being daintely seated hauing al delights of pleasure either solitary or otherwise she built anew much more glorious then before wherin she made the tombe for Antonarus laying his body there leauing a place for her selfe and as soone as her Son came to yeares fit for gouernment she put the whole rule into his hands retyring her selfe to this place where with loyall loue and sincere faith she ended her dayes beeing after buried with him from whom liuing shee would not be parted nor dead seuered The noble companions beeing recouered tooke leaue of their kinde host who would not be contented till Amphilanthus entertained his onely Son for his Squire which he did and so they pass'd towards Hungary ryding by a faire and pleasant riuers side which Ollorandus knew and welcomd each drop which passed by him knowing the place where his Mistris most commonly liued at was seated on this streame his thoughts were busied on her and Amphilanthus as passionately contemplated his loue thus they rid together yet their thoughts so farre asunder as might haue made them strangers As thus they passed among some Osiers which grew by the side of that Riuer some of them within it or the water in loue with their rootes chastly embraced them making pretty fine ponds betweene each other the armes and bodyes of the trees lying so kindly to each other as with much ease and fine coolenesse one might passe from one to the other A dainty Maide among the trees had taken vp her abiding hauing made a kind of bed among them vpon their boughs which twind within one anothers armes made the lodging secure She had an Angle in her hand and lay as if fishing but her mind plac'd on a higher pleasure she little regarded the byting of the fish beeing her selfe deceiued with a cunninger baite the hooke of loue hauing caught her so fast as nothing could release her and as she sate she would make pretty and neate comparisons betweene her betraying the poore silly fish and her owne being betrayed by the craft of loue which some times she commended and yet againe would condemne At this time she was in a reasonable good conceit of loue fauorable enough to him as appeard by this song she sung the voyce beeing the cause of their seeking any body in that place LOue peruse me seeke and finde How each corner of my minde is a twine wouen to shine Not a Webb ill made foule fram'd Bastard not by Father nam'd such in me cannot bee Deare behold me you shall see Faith the Hiue and loue the Bee which doe bring gaine and string Pray desist me sinewes daines Holds and loues life in those gaines lying bare to despaire When you thus annottomise All my body my heart prise being true iust to you Close the Truncke embalme the Chest Where your power still shall rest ioy entombe Ioues iust doome The Song ended they went towards her desiring to discourse with her she curteous and excellently witty gaue them entertainement her apparrell was such as said for her she was of the best sort of women her Gowne was of greene Satten with long sleeues to the ground they and her gowne buttoned to the bottom with buttons of Diamonds so were her wearing sleeues but by reason the weather was warme they were left open in spaces through which her cut worke Smock appeared and here and there her delicate skin was seene shee held her angle as neglectiuely as loue the ill causer of her paine held her when the poore little fish did plaie with the baite or offer to swallow it too big for them yet made the corke stirre so would she say doth Loue with me play with me shew mee pleasures but lets me enioy nothing but the touch of them and the smart of the hooke that hurts me without gaine and only giues as light a good to me as the hope this floting corck did giue me of the fishes prison But these imaginations were laid aside by the two Princes comming to whom she presently rose vp and with fit and excellent respect she saluted them throwing downe het rod wherewith she had thretned but executed little hurt passing ouer her transparant bridge went vnto them whom she vsed according to their merits when shee vnderstood who they were conducting thē along that riuer to a most curious garden and so into another and then into as rare a place for building as they in all their trauels had euerseene being a house of white Marble Varietie of all delights were there and shee desirous that they should enioy them giuing all the free and noble welcome that could be afforded After they had been a while in the house shee desired them to be pleased to vnarme themselues which they did being brought into a rich chamber wherein there were two maruellous faire beds they hauing before intreated to lodge together Then did she leaue them till supper time comming then againe to attend them but when she beheld them she could not but extreamely admire the louelinesse of Amphilanthus for no woman were shee neuer so passionately in loue with any but confessed him fittest to bee beloued though such were his worth as few had the honour of his affection and most of them gratefulnesse woed more for then his owne choice Thus they went together to the roome where they were to eate the King of Bohemia vsing all respect vnto the Lady who he thought did much resemble his Mistris but as a true louer thought shee came farre short of her perfections At supper there were many Knights more that came to visit this Lady she being much honoured and beloued of all her husband was likewise there but such a man to bee her mate as if hee were made for a punishment to her for being so excellently perfect aboue the common rate of her sexe her fashion such as no stranger could but commend to be full of modesty and iudgement towards him but as it was discreet and obseruing so was it to be discernd distant enough from affection yet as farre from neglect as fondnesse his likewise to her as if shee gouernd both parts of loue He entertaind these Princes with much kindnes keeping them company and shewing them al the rare delights he had about his house which were many but the greatest rarenesse they saw was the Lady who so much Amphilanthus marked as he discouerd her to be
sitting downe vpon it so as the light might serue to shew her beauty she thus spake Your name and comming into my power so nearely agreeing cannoâ— giue you other hope then to follow them who haue before runne into this danger of breaking my commands which are not without death to be satisfied especially if you like those wilfull men will not obey me yet this fauor you haue to lead you to happinesse that I neuer honourd any before with thus much kindnes which in an other if not so great a Queene might be called loue But I that scorne subiection cannot allow such a power only confesse my liking you hath made me pitty you and pitty brought mee to offer you an vnusuall honor for till this time did neuer any thought wherin ill might lurke inhabit nor euer was I mou'd to thus much shew of immodesty yet flatter not your selfe with thought of ouer much gaine since my attendants witnesse my truth and such boldnes as durst not bee matched with loosenes But indeed I must say I did like you when I saw you first and so well as I then resolu'd to be courteous to you that hath made mee willing to speake with you and to be truely resolu'd of you the night time I chose by reason my spirit hauing hitherto euer commanded and not in the least yeelded to any authority I should now be ashamed to giue occasion of the contrary conceit either by my countenance or fashon which I doubted would be so much more alter'd as my desires to faor you might purchase mee yet hope not more then your duty and respect to me may lawfully challeng least you fall into as great a hazard as a Larke doth who to shun the Hobby lyes downe till the nett be laid ouer her and so is caught by her owne folly or base yeelding But if you yeeld to me it shall bee noble if you refuse death honour will not permit mee to demand ought but noble things honour likewise ties you to obedience you a Knight I a Queene able to crowne you with the title of a King as it may bee with the honour of my loue feare not noblenesse dares aduenture any thing that 's noble I come not to you with threatning Armes or weapons to indanger you only with loue arm'd fully and so I would conquer What needs Armes replied the distressed Prince where such vnmatched power raignes weapons where beautie dwells or can refusall liue where such perfections authorise yeelding Command mee great Queene I am your seruant your prisoner what vse of words when the heart submits or speech when I am in your â—oyall hands a Vassall at command She was pleased and well liked this anâ—were her pride and power satisfied yet out of pride ordering her actions so as calling her maides she went away assuring her selfe that his loue must bee â—nswerable to her ambitious coueting it and seruile to her will but her maids â—omming to her they brought a marueilous louely banket of seuerall sorts of â—ruites both preserues and other as that time afforded and the delicatest â—ines Greece did know Then tooke she him by the hand with a countenance of maiesty and loue mix'd neither too high in state nor with shew of subâ—isse affection She was no sooner gone but Selarinus shut the doore grieued â—o the hart that he should be so tempted to iniure Philistella whose loue was â—o ingrauen by truth in his breast as he vowed to die rather then consent to â—ny greater kindnes then that night he had yeelded vnto The rest of which â—ime hee spent in thinking of his loue and weeping out compassion on his woes that were remediles yet such were his teares as they made prints in â—is soule for euery one shed seem'd like a drop throwne on fire that makes 〈◊〉 blacke but quencheth it not so did those spots of falshood as hee tearmd â—hem disgrace not disanull his vowed faith Deare Starre said he which â—nely giues me light how maiest thou darken thy selfe from fauouring me â—nd how iustly may I condemn'd demand no pardon My dearer life hadst â—hou heard my words or seene my manner mightst not thou too iustly cenâ—ure me I am vnworthy of thy smallest grace and vnable to excuse my erâ—or yet this consider I must get liberty to serue thee and how but by deceit â—f each one may vse deceit it will be surely permitted if not allowed to enioy â—heir loues then for that purpose beare with me but let me deceiue her to â—ee true to thee and to be with thee Pardon then this ill and giue leaue to vse Art to be more plaine with thee my bodies liberty lies in her to graunt my heartâ—s in thine to kil or saue sweet now be like thy like gentle and sweet â—nd be assurd I will not liue to be vntrue vnto thy loued selfe Then turnd he â—n his bed sigh'd and wept and so continued till the day appeared then rose and drest himselfe his Page and the attendants first appointed by the Queene waiting vpon him When he was ready he walk'd about the roome at last he â—ooked out at the window not to see but to be vnseene to lament breathing his priuate sighs into the aire the chiefe of his attendants thinking hee had â—tood admiring those sweet fine delights told him if it pleased him hee might goe into that Garden for such leaue he had Hee willing to haue any signe of freedome quicklie gaue consent so little a place as a Garden being like fresh-water comfortable to stenched fish so this to a priâ—oner Downe they went the walkes were extreame high and no way to bee climb'd gaue them certaine assurance of his safety wherefore they left him When he was alone he threw himselfe vpon the ground beate his breast and still cried out O me wretched of all men why am I thus punished for ambitions choice Loue thou didst choose or say I did why Loue I doe the more deserue thy fauour when choice and loue are honourd in the choice Where he had cast himselfe it was vnder a faire shade of Oranges a purling brooke whispering close by him which still he â—hought said Philistella see see I see my wrong cry'd he but better consider my true loue to thee auoid temptations poore distressed Selarinus and proud lasciuious Queen forbeare thy shame and mine Then came she in for from her cabinet she might behold that garden plainely and perceiuing him she said within her selfe my loue is there my loue commands my loue inuites the time allowes and all things with my longings now agree As she was thus resolud she left her Cabinet and hasted towards the Garden to win assure and so enioy him whom she found enioying as much griefe as absence and imprisonment could bring a loyall louer He saw her not till she threw her selfe downe by him he started vp and with humilitie demanded pardon for his boldnesse in not rising to her Maiestie which fault might be excused
braue Gentleman who equally loued but being a man it was necessary for him to exceede a woman in all things so much as inconstancie was found fit for him to excell her in hee left her for a new Poore loue said the Queene how doth all storyes and euery writer vse thee at their pleasure apparrelling thee according to their various fancies canst thou suffer thy selfe to be thus put in cloathes â—ay raggs instead of vertuous habits punish such Traytors and cherrish mee thy loyall subiect who will not so much as keepe thy iniuries neere me then threw she away the booke and walked vp and downe her hand on her heart to feele if there were but the motion left in the place of that shee had so freely giuen which she found and as great and braue an one in the stead of it her seruants dwelling there which more then hers she valued and deerely held in her best dearest breast which still sent sweetest thoughts to her imagination euer seeing his loue and her 's as perfectly and curiously twined as Iuye which growne into the wall it ascends cannot but by breaking and so killing that part be seuer'd not like the small corne that yeelds forth many staulks and many eares of wheat out of one making a glorious bunch of diuers parts this affection was but one in truth and being as come from one roote or gaine of matchlesse worth brought forth but one flower whose delicacy and goodnesse was in it selfe Many flowers shewes as faire as a Rose to the eye but none so sweete so were many loues as braue in shew but none so sweetely chast and therefore rich in worth this inhabited and was incorporat in them both who as one and as it were with one soule both did breath and liue Sweete wood said she beare record with me neuer knew I but his loue Loue answered the wood being graced with an Echo Soft said she shall I turne blabb no Echo excuse me my loue and choyce more precious and more deere then thy proud youth must not be named by any but my selfe none being able to name him else as none so iust nor yet hath any eare except his owne heard me confesse who gouerns me thy vast and hollow selfe shall not be first where fondest hopes must rest of secresie in thee who to each noise doth yeeld an equall grace As none but we doe truely loue so none but our owne hearts shall know we loue Then went shee a little further and on a stub which was betweene two trees she sate downe letting the one serue as the backe of a chayer to rest vpon the other to hold her dainty feete against Her armes she folded on her breast as embracing his braue heart or rather wrapping it within her armes Deere hart said â—hee when shall I liue againe beholding his loued eyes can I in possibility deserue ought he not here am I aliue no my life is with him a poore weake shadow of my selfe remaines but I am other where Poore people how are you deceiued that thinke your Queene is here alas t is nothing so shee is farre off it may be in the field performing famous acts it may be on the Sea passing to fetch more fame or indeed speaking with thy selfe as I discourse to him his time employd in thoughts of loue like mine and so he thinking of me brings vs both together in absence present when distance is and absent oft in greatest companies But dost thou thinke on me deare loue thy heart doth tell me so and I belieue it as t is thine and mine Sweet hope to see him flatter mee but pay for such an error and make good the ioy I take in thee blesse my poore eyes with seeing his that make mine lowest slaues to his commands yet greatest Princes since so prised by him Let these hands once be blessed againe by touching his and make this Kingdome rich by bringing him the truth of riches to her let mee enioy those louing lookes which in me force content beyond it selfe smile in those eyes which sparkle in desire to make me see they striue to expresse what flames the heart doth hold of loue to me Doe I not answere them let me then straight be blind depriued of that ioy of sight and happinesse of ioy for that alone in him and from him can I haue And thou most kind and welcome memory adde to my soule delight the sweete remembrance of our perfect loues bring to the passionate eyes of my imaginary sight those pleasures wee haue had those best spent houres when we each other held in sweet discourse what wanted then but length of deare enioying when his deare breath deliuerd vnto me the onely blessing I on earth did couet telling me he was mine and bid me be assured when he was other he must not be liuing death must only alter him from mee and me from him for other can I not or will I be Sweet memory t is true hee vowed this nay tooke mee in his armes and sware that he embracing me had all the earthly riches this world could afford him so thought I by himâ— thus still you see one thought one loue still gouerns him and me are wee not most properly one and one loue betweene vs make vs truly one Further she had proceeded and run on to infinitenesse of content in these imaginations but from them she must be taken to be honord with the presence of her brauest Cosin for then came one of her seruants who knew that breach of obedience in such a kind would bee pardoned telling her that the King of Naples was come to visit her She quickly rose nor did shee chide the man who surely had been sorely shent for troubling her had any other cause brought him and so disturbd her amorous thoughts As shee returned Amphilanthus met her their eyes saluted first then followed all the other ceremonies that do befit so sit a welcome To the Palace they came where nothing wanted to manifest the certaine gouernement that hee held there hee being the Prince shee most respected but whom shee loued shee neuer would to any other once confesse With delicate discourse they passed the time shee neuer satisfied with hearing of his acts yet neuer vngrieued when she heard of danger although past still curious of his good Some daies they thus remained when newes was brought Antissia was arriu'd My Lord said shee are you not happy now that in this place you shall behold your loue The assurance of that happines said he did bring me hither from that royall Campe. She was no whit displeased with this reply the next morning Antissia came to the Court the King holding the Queene by the hand met her at the gate Antissia was so much ioy'd as she was but that cosening thing it selfe rauished with false delight she triumphed in the blaze while the true fire burnt more solidly and in another place She was conducted to the Palace Pamphilia
Burnt like a Phaenix change but such could shake And a new heat giuen by your eyes did make Embers dead cold call Spirits from the pits Of darke despaire to fauour new felt fits And as from death to this new choice to wake Loue thus crownes you with power scorne not the flames Though not the first yet which as purely ries As the best light which sets vnto our eyes And then againe ascends free from all blames Purenesse is not alone in one fix'd place Who dies to liue finds change a happy grace These I did learne for these did fit mee best and from that time contented was to let him see I entertaind his sute which was his kingdome wonne in sweet delight then was that as an Empire to my gaine when I first saw him rudely yet innocently clad like a Lamb in wool for colour and softnesse to the eye or touch his face blushing like modesty after his arme had showed manly power his delicacie asking pitie but his commanding absolutenes disdaining it as much as the bright Moone if we should say wee were sorry in a frostie night to see her face in the water least she might bee cold rather might I say I feard the Sunne would burne him when hee enamourd of his dainty skinne did but incloase him with his power from other haâ—me touching him not to hurt but to make difference twixt his fauours shind and shielded him while others he did burne kinde in embracements and soft in his force The language he did speake was milde so were his lookes loue shaddowing all himself within his eyes or in his face keeping his greatest Court because most gaining Ah sweet Philistella had you seene the vn-relatable exquisitenesse of hiâ— youth none could haue blam'd me but euen chid me for not instantly yeelding my passions wholly to his will but proud ambition and gay flatteriâ— made me differ and loue your brother thus if I changd t was from sweete Steriamus to Parselius for his excellency wonne me first so this can bee noâ— change but as a booke layd by new lookt on is more and with greateâ— iudgement vnderstood You need not said Philistella striue to make me seâ— your loue and cause thereof to Steriamus since I truely speake I thinke none worthyer to bee truely loued except my Lord then I imagine him nor can I much or any way defend my brother who had you still continued louing I should haue blam'd he prouing so vniust yet this only salue and good excuse is left Desteny did and euer still must rule Now for mee deere Vrania all I aime is loue if I discourse what is it of but loue if I walke out what trauell in but loue if I sit still what muse I on but loue if I discoursed be withall what answere I but loue so as being made maintaind by loue and in loue shaped squared only to his rule what neede excuses but plaine truth and say if I doe speake from purpose or extrauogantly fly from the matter we were talking of if cleaue to other â—ubiect â—diuert the proferd speech say this and only this Loue who is Lord of all braue royall minds hath like the heauens beheld my lowly breast and in it taken lodging gracing it with humbling his great Godhead to embrace a true and yeelding heart in comparison of his supreame authority most meane should I not thus without excuse be freed nay euen respected when loue is adored As if hee spake from me so heare me now loue dwels in me hee hath made me his hoste then if I only doe remaine as sure I shall wholly affection and his humblest slaue scorne mee not but still reckon mee a seruant nearest wayting on great Loue. Others like Painters better can set him forth in his coulers Kings we see haue pictures drawne to be eternised by but t is them selues for which the picture is drawne not for the workemans skill so fauor me for Loue nor blame me though an ill peece 't is the best though by an ill hand drawne t is to the life others may smoother bee and fairer none more like nor iust vnto the perfect true resemblance of pure loue thus see you before your royall selfe the humblest vassall Cupid cherisheth Vrania in her soule coÌ„mended the pretty confession faire Philistella made admiring her sweetnesse of disposition as much as before she woÌ„dred at the beauty of her person embracing her my deere companion in true loue said she now shall we with more ease and freedome serue our Master dayes must not passe without our seruice done to him nor shall my deere Vrania said the other let our most priuate thoughts be to each other plaine and open seacrysie to all others held and only loue and we know what we think thus they did liue and loue and loue and liue Nerana still remaining in Cicely now growne as humble as before proud and ashamed as before scorning liuing in a Caue alone and feeding on hearbs roots and milke of Goats which fed on those rocks playing the milke-mayd better then before the Princesse extremity forcing her contented with patience and patiently contented nothing troubling her but her loue which was and is enough to vex the greatest and best gouernd Spirits hers being none of those the exactliest ruld To bring her from her misery Loue hauing sufficiently tyrannised the King Perissus came thither who in loue to his friends the braue and matchles Princes meant to assist them iournying towards them hee happned to that place where he beheld the sportfull exercise of Fortune a Princesse without a Country cloathes or seruants a Lady that must tell her selfe to be one else not to be mistrusted a miserable woman and the more so because she felt it experience and sufferance making her sencible of misfortune She sought to shunne the King at first but afterwards considering her good might come from him her hurt likely if kept close to abide with her she came vnto him and with much humility made her aproach who beheld her with a gratious and pittying eye seeing in her more then ordenary behauiour and a countenance that might carry greatnes with it and had it in it though shadowed vnder pouerty Perissus tooke her to him and demanding some things of her shee answered with these like words Said she this estate may iustly merit contempt and scorne from you or so great a Prince as you appeare to be I am a creature liuing by ill chance able to relate my misery which if you please to giue an eare vnto I shall tell you I am cal'd Neraena Princesse of Stalamina made in myne owne Country and in the most perfect time of my rule subiect to a stranger both to me and I feare good nature so far scorning me as it brought me to this estate you see me in for after with curst and scornfull words he had refusd my loue and louing petition for pitty left me and with his friends as
creature Nature taught her to be carefull and yet kind thus she beheld him now with loue and such respect as she must beare him whom she had made her Lord for Lord the husband is in all estates from Shepheards vnto Kings Then did the pleasing difference begin each striuing how to shew the most respect she to maintaine what she had gaind he to requite what shee had giuen Amphilanthus and Polarchos admiring them as much as either had in former times themselues when first in loue calling their passions round about them wrapping themselues in them as in their mantles but closer did they sit to them Amphilanthus being so much loue it selfe as he might be compar'd to be it selfe as neere as a round glasse made of the clearest temper and fild full of the clearest water turne it any way you see thorow it yet both seeme one colour and clearenesse in agreeing so did the clearenesse of his loue shew through him or was it selfe onely loue and purely cleare no vacant place least turning of the glasse might make a bubble to appeare a change no he was round and true Poore Polarchos hee stood like a blasted tree the blossome of his affectâ—on killed and withered yet hee called to minde how hee had loued and how shee vsed him No more expression had this daintie Lasse giuen to her forrest Lad then shee had made to him but now decayed and all her fauours dryed and wrinckled like the last yeares fruite poore Prince turnd to the lowest slauery of Loues meanest cast-awayes hee wept while the other smil'd the Forrester ioyning in present gaine Amphilanthus feeding on the knowledge of his absent loues affection heere did loue play his part in diuers kinds made himselfe this mirth sporting like wantons with the babye loues of these poore prisoners Amphilanthus pulled off his helme and went vnto them who with a fashioâ— not rude nor Courtly but fine and ciuill receiued him the like they did vnto Polarchos Amphilaâ—thus giuing them the welcome salutation of the first wished ioyes being as hee did tell them witnesse of their vowes they both seemd glad that such braue witneâ—ses they had vnâ—nowne til thâ—n obtained the Forester replying thus Sir neuer could a better or a richer gift be giuen me except her selfe then this wish which from you doth bring the ioy we hope to find keep and which two yeares affection hath ambitiously desired now by her grant enioyed but may it please you to grace vs with this a second honour wee shall haue iust reason to acknowledge our poore selues your seruants and our liues your owne to be commanded 'T is the manner heere that when a Nimph doth change from that strict life to be a happy wife if shee bee such an one as length of time or honor hath ingaged shee must by two braue Knights be brought vnto the Temple of Diana where shee must remaine that night alone in prayers and then cast off her weeds and offer them and leaue them with the Priest the Knights then come vnto the doore and call her with whom she comes forth they then do giue her to her chosen maâ—e and so conduct them to the Temple of Venus where they are receiued and there by Himen's Priest are marryed This if wee may obtaine of you so fitly come to vs brought by that Fortune which hath made me bless'd aptly to giue conclusion to our woes and faire beginnings to our happinesse you shall make vs the happiest to pray for your enioyings that euer louers had and sure you must be one Sir for loue shines in you The King made answer hee would doe that kindnessâ— and any other to so fine a payre then tooke he the sweete Nimph who now must change her name and gaine the best and blessedst estate Vnto the Temple they directly went and there without the gate aâ—tended till the time of going in till she must returne which at the ringing of a little Bell did summon them to call her her they tooke and Amphilanthus gaue her to her loue wishing euen from his soule the time were come to haue the deerest gift hee most did long for giuen so freely to him Then to the other Temple straight they went which was not farre but in a dainty wood this other standing in a plaine hard by a coole and christall Riuer there she was receiued with ioy by Venus Priests and Hymenâ— Priests came and cloathed her in wiues weeds and so euen laded with content they left the Temple and went to his Lodge which was in a Fâ—â—â—est whereof he had the charge vnder the King who loued the desarts and those sports most of any thing the first and cheife cause being hiâ— affection to a Lady liuing in a Forrest and wholy affecting that life euery man seekâ—ng to please him tooke the estates of Forresters on them and so made a delightfull kind of wildnesse please them and him who thus enioyed pleasures and his ends coueting to appeare like their liuing but the true roote of vertue and good breeding shun'd sauagenes and only made roome for a little neglectiuenes to couer them with all so as the great men were but Courâ—ly Forresters and ciuill wild-men The Lodge was a faire house built on a Hill at the foote wherof ranne a Riuer ouer which was a bridge from thence they passed through a delicate walke made by Art and at the end of that which still ascended was a garden through which they came vnto the House furnished with furniture fit for a Court the seruants all in greene and in good number shewing fellowshippe in their apparrell but obedience in their fashions There the Knights were welcom'd like themselues and then the braue young Forrester desired to bee so much graced as to know their names nor would I said hee aske this â—auour vntill now that you might see your seruant my selfe could entertaine you for the honours done and to be worthier of them I le first tell you who I am although appearing outwardly more meane I am the third sonne to an Earle who is cheife Forrester vnto the Prince of this Country this Forrest is the daintiest and the best beloued of any by his Maiestie being calld by him selfe his garden this hath hee giuen mee as my charge and heere I serue him and doe please him well by leading of this life this Lady is the Daughter of a Lord neere neighbour to this place but being thought too worthy for me as I must confesse they err'd not in that though did commit high treason vnto loue seeking to barre vs from our wished ioy they gaue her to Diana being then vnder the yeares which they might rule her in shee was constrained to doe as they commanded and was sworne a Nimph dedicated to the chast Goddesse by her friends but when she came of yeares by the lawes of this Country she might choose whether shee would continue so or no. Two yeares shee wanted of the age of freedomâ—
where they more freely discussed of the matter which was this Antissia after her returne filled with hate in stead of loue neuer left plotting for reuenge till this came as often it doth in her sexe into her mind whereupon she writ to her Nephew but if that failed shee trusted on her seruant and therefore likewise did she write to him a letter from her was a comfort sufficient but a command his honour and happinesse This was the cause and nothing but death would satisfie her as at that time her furie was nothing being so reuengefull as a forsaken woman shame like loue prouoking her and that he freely granted her though it had fallen out to be his owne to haue paid her Antissius mistrusting as much by his distemper led him foorth of the Towne to this place the same day the Army marched thence toward Nicolarus there they had remained till Perissus his finding them Antissius striuing to diswade Dolorindus persisting in his resolution which had end by this adventure They stayed there till he was something recouered in which time the Sicilians arriued with whom they all followed the Army but Dolorindus afflicted doubly left them to their will hee following a course to redeeme his honor quenched They arriuing found the Kings ready to giue battell the Army was ordered before their comming wherefore those troops stood by them selues to watch when they might assist and not trouble them Antissia after shee had fedde her selfe with this fury was more then satisfied for Enuy being a little appeas'd shee came to her good nature againe or loue or feare or and indeed all passions whirling about like a wheele they draw wyeâ— out with all so drew shee painefull thoughts longer then before lengthned with dispaire for now said shee wretched Antissia what hope can be so flattering as to shew it selfe in any colour like it selfe to helpe thee Amphilanthus must for euer hate thee and all his friends dispise thee Thou hast engaged a louing King who will I am assured bee so oreruled by thy commands as hee will loose his life for thee How can Nâ—gropont forgiue mee but most I haue offended mine owne Country deere Romania in seeking to make thee a widdow by loosing her King who if hee meete Amphilanthus in the field is sure to dye for it if not yet haue I sought to murther his honor in desiring to make him vngratefull either way I am a Traytor to my Country and deserue the sharpest punishment Yet I hope they will consider what vnquiet passions may produce and like men haue stayder iudgments about them then on my request to indanger themselues or let their honors perish for my wil. This hope pleaseth me but now againe I doubt O fond Antissia wicked Antissia to let so vilde a thought inhabit in thee it had beene too much to bee nourished and brought to the ripenesse of so much mischiefe Alas sweetest Pamphilia how maist thou curse me for hauing a thought to hurt thy loue much more to plot his ruine and so thine in his yet thou art the cause for had hee not changed from me to thee all had been safe yet I may wrong thee this way too how know I that hee loued mee first may it not bee that hee did loue thee long before I saw Morea His fashion at the first encounter 'twixt you when wee came to Mantinea expressed a deare respect and familiar loue then I wrong'd thee to purchase him If from thee he did change the blame is there and I aske pardon for it but pardon cannot bee where so much ill remaines What shal I do most miserable creature wretched beyond all women and not fit to liue How euer businesses passe thou art a meere shame to thy sex and the disgrace of louers Die cruel Antissia and abuse not this place with thy vild liuing in it How can this earth beare without swallowing thee vp considering that he brought quiet peace the blessing of a Country vnto it But thy hate is such to me as thou wilt not let mee lodge within thee but rather doth cast mee out like the worst weeds to ease thy selfe of the poyson I am fild'd withall and to expose me to the end worâ—t serpents are brought to which ought to be destroyed least they infect the earth and should I bee slaine for my venomous practice and haue no buriall I were iustly vsed who could not bury a little losse without the graue were lined with murther A little losse said I noe sure it is the greatest yet loue should still be loue not let malice be the Hyaena to so sweet a Prince Perplexed wretch what shall I doe wander away abide not heere for shame the ayre cannot afford thee breath the grownd rest nor thine owne lost selfe quiet Curs'd be thy dayes and thou the most accursed soule liuing end or be transformed to miserie it selfe and be any thing rather then Antissia Sought I to make Antissius vngratefull curs'd was the act and I accursed in it Would I haue Dâ—lorindus kill Amphilanthus why did not that desire murther or indeed iustly execute me Hate is aboue all and highlyest to be hated and if that to be misprized what must the Nurse bee that nourished it As a mother of a braue good sonne is reuerenced and sought so may I be hated and shun'd for this birth Romania I am a Traitor to thee thou canst not but abhor me I am guilty accuse my selfe and know what thou must doe in Iustice to bee reuenged on me I will flye from thee and euer blame my selfe Then went she downe out of her chamber taking to the walke she had describ'd to Amphilanthus and Pamphilia there shee walked like a hurt Deere staying no where vexed and tormented thinking stirring and running would helpe but all proou'd contrary she must yeeld to her hurt and lye downe with her harme There she pass'd vp and downe till a boat came in she asked of what place they were they said of Metelin when they returnd they answer'd instantly when they had vnladed In conclusion shee agreed with them and so return'd better quieted because businesse employed her She was now resolu'd to goe who to take with her she must thinke of what manner to goe in what prouision to carry with her These employd her wits so as shee grew to be a little pacified and these things to put the other out of minde at least the mindes trouble with perpetuall vexation But when she was ready to take her iourney many great Ladies came to visit her as if sent to hinder her she tooke it so and although a Princesse who loued noble conuersation yet comming vnwished for it now perplexed her her iudgement commanded and she entertained them discharged her Bark and staid with them Her sorrow she couer'd or masked with the absence of her Nephew but Lucenia was one and one bred in Loues Schoole she knew her paine and the cause of it and wrought so well
Yet these you praise the true stile opinion By which truths gouernment is shroudly gon Honor by you esteemd a title true A title cannot claimd by change as due It is too high for such low worth to reach Heauen gifts bestow'th as to belong to each And this true loue must in reuenge bestow On you his sacred power with paine to know A loue to giue you fickle loose and vaine Yet you with ceaselesse griefe seeke to obtaine Her fleeting fauours while you wayling proue Meerely for punishment a steddy loue Let her be faire but false great disdainefull Chast but to you to all others gainefull Then shall your liberty and choice be tide To paine repentance and the worst sinne pride But if this cannot teach you how to loue Change still till you can better counsell proue Yet be assur'd while these conceits you haue Loue will not owne one shot you say he gaue His are all true all worthy yours vniust Then changing you what can you from him trust Repentance true felt oft the Gods doth win Then in your Waine of loue leaue this foule sin So shall you purchase fauour bannish shame And with some care obtaine a louers name These Verses being sent to Nicholarus by the same messenger that brought his he â—ell into so violent a despaire and hate of himselfe as being more subiect to passion then strength of iudgemeÌ„t or power of vertue he grew distracted or indeed stark mad so as care was had of him and gouernors set about him as ouer his estate til at last by dilligence faithful Phisitions seruants he recouerd but how only to be made more miserable or to haue iuster cause to be mad as if the other were not sufficient for then succeded the inuasion and he gaind his wits to see his Country lost and feele his weaknes in estate as before in sence yet was he happier then for that want made him not want it this finds it In his mad fits hee once writ to her and would needs conuey it by a Romanian who then wayted on him He honestly deliuered it but more honestly wept and bewailed his Lords misfortune She caried it brauely and that is all can be said for what should shee or could shee doe louing an other she was no question sorry in a noble sort but not in respect that had he beene other she must haue runne a greater danger in hazard of her honor and breach in faith to her beloued This made her imagine the other the lesse and her fortune the better The same Lady and her louer likewise but at seuerall times were brought to the victorious King whose pardons he gaind being as mercifull as braue and this relation haue I from the Prince of Sauoy a Gentleman excellently bred and discreetely liuing good as any learned aboue ordinary Princes and delicatly skill'd in Poetry This discourse hee hath put in verse which is that I meant hee sent me and daintily expressed all the passions The Queene of Naples desired to see it shee promise the performance then walked they a little farther still taulking of loue the braue Queene longing to heare the young Queene confesse shee willing enough if to any shee would haue spoken it but hee and shee must only bee rich in that knowledge In the euening the other Princesse came vnto them and so all attended the rare Lady into the Palace who was as perfect in Poetry and all other Princely vertues as any woman that euer liu'd to bee esteemed excellent in any one shee was stor'd with all and so the more admirable With in a short time after the King of Morea intending to meete the Princes who hee imagined would bee in that time vpon their returne determined to encounter them more cleerely to see his loue for hee tooke a iourney towards them and so resolued to remoue his Court to Corinth that famous auncient and fayre Citty there hee purposed to stay and to haue the fitter opportunity to entertaine them how happy a resolution in shew this was for the amorous Ladyes louers can well and best coniecture Being arriued at that beautyfull place the young louing Princesses must needs see the Sea and not only that but goe vpon it Pamphilia went to the shoare with them but then considered her grauity was too much in the opinion of the world to enter into so slight an action wherefore desired pardon They would not allow it herâ— but with sweete perswasions and inticements got her a bord with them they sayled some leagues from the shoare with much pleasure and as they cald it content Pamphilia and Vrania discoursing Philistella and Selarina Orilena was at that time with the Queene of Naples whom they would not call least their iourney might bee hindred thus they plotted to deceiue themselues and ranne from safety to apparent danger for what is the Sea but vncertaintie Why should Pamphilia vnlesse on necessity venture her constant selfe in such a hazard as if to tempt her enemy which surely shee did for she grew angry to see she was made to serue her perfectioÌ„s in fury waxed in raged the Shippe grew kindly with bending her selfe to each waue to aske pitty and bowing with reuerence to demaund safety and returne But shee the more sought to like a proud insolent woman grew the more sâ—out and haughty regarding nothing more then her owne pride and striuing to molest those beautyes The Ladyes cry'd the Sea vnmercifully stubborne was deafe to their laments They besought she came vp to the very sids of the Ship as if to harken but then slid downe and smild at their feare and rose againe in glorious height to behold more of their sorrowes O said Pamphilia when did I euer play so foolish a part iustly may I bee condemned for this error and blamd for so much lightnes how she despisd her selfe and complaind to her loue how she accused all but him how she wept and as it were saw by the course a comming harme to her soule which then and after for a long space best knew the hurt wayling in condemning her The storme continued the winds calling loud to the Sea to assist or continue her fury To the shoare of either side they could not get Fortune would not permit ought but misfortune to gouerne at last they were quite carried out of the Gulfe and being in the Adriatike Sea the Shippe was tossed as pleased Destiney till at last she was cast vpon a Rocke and split the braue Ladyes saued while she a while lay tumbling and beating her selfe as hoping to make way into the hard stone for those who could pierce the stoniest heart with the least of their looks When they were got vpon the Rocke and seeing no place but it selfe which appear'd to be at first but small they were in an excessiue perplexity wishing rather in the storme to haue beene swallowed then brought thither to some hope and then cast into the depth of Dispaire except
they found some thing was in that name wherefore they would not presse but left him promising to obserue his commands The two Companions rid till they came againe to a Wood but not so â—hicke as the other but of great huge trees and such a place it was as offerd delights to most hearts to stay and receiue it there The bodies white as snow testifying innocency and their tops so large and thickly spread as expressed glory for their purenesse In this place they lighted giuing their horses to their Squires and the very content of that solitarinesse brake their silence Here said Amphilanthus is a place fit for such a creature as my selfe to dwell in here alone am I fit to inhabit and leaue all gouernment to him that can rule shunning that when I cannot rule my selfe When did I euer see you my dearest friend said Ollorandus in this tune What haue you done with your spirit where drownd your iudgement and how buried your selfe What if you liue to bee crossed in your desires belieue it it is not to other end then to make you happier with the sweet meeting of what the misse will make dearer to you when passed Pamphilia cannot bee lost Vrania drowned Philistella cast away or Selarina stolne What vexeth you if they bee carried to a farre place if the worst as those parts are full of enchantments Enchanted cryd Amphilanthus deare friend t is we that are enchanted from finding the truth of their losse they are lost and weeled by the same Deuill in ignoraâ—ce the more to torture and scorne vs. Ollorandus perswaded and spake houres to him but he was deafe or speechlesse for not a word could he get of him his sighes were his answers his groanes his speech and thus they walked till they met a Lady as she seemd to be in mourning attire her faire eyes shewing more griefe then her apparrell sadnesse yet had they red cirkles about them threatning reuenge for their sorrow her traine was only one Page who shewd as little mirth as his Mistris did contentâ— they came one a little before the other as if sorrow could haue most liberty in lonelines and therefore although but two would goe asunder Amphilanthus sad found or sadnes found for him that distresse in her demanded his helpe wherfore he went to her curteously demanding if his seruice might auaile her Sir said she your tawâ—y liuery so wel suits with my fortune as if I saw but that I might from thence ask help but alas Sir my misery is but one way to be redrest my woe no way equald nor can my afflictions see end but by the end of me Miseries face said he is so perfectly yet in delicacy vnfortunately presented in you as would make one wish rather to be thus miserable then free otherwise affected but as in you excellently are these perfections so in me are as excelling crosses I knowing these can with more feeling vnderstand yours and with a more reuengefull mind serue you hauing that abounding in me for behold here before you the man who neuer saw moâ—ning ioy that was not nipt by cold euenings malice Comparing griefes said the Lady are but to augment sorrow without helpe comming to extremity but in your discourse I find by you that you want helpe as well as I. And help only of one like your selfe said hee can make me blessed I will not touch oâ— that said she though thus I might since if she were like mee shee would bee much more pitifull How can I know that said he but thus I may gesse it that none being able to compare with her except her owne excellencies they gouernd by her selfe can suffer no comparisons This shewes you to bee a louer said she and for that I bewaile likewise your fortune for hell cannot inflictâ— more terrible torment on a heart then loues power settles in him Do youâ— spring from that ill said he I thought only my starrs had directed me to sucâ— distresse They spring and flow cryd shee increase and dwell in this subiectâ— May I know the cause said he Yes said the Lady if you will promise me pardon for my boldnes and tedious discourse which it will proue and other assistance I need not Alas cryd he that shal be most willingly lent you thougâ— I may feare as little to helpe you or my patience being a poore though nessary vertue Tell me who you are said the Lady I am reply'd he cald thâ— lost Man my name little famous here not hauing done any thing but againâ—â— two Knights at a Bridge from whom I won passage If you haue done thaâ— answerd shee the more assurance haue I of your worth and valor for they were two counted the strongest and most valliant of this Kingdome and part of my story toucheth on them but now haue I cause to be ambitious oâ— your knowledge and by the want of it reason to distrust the continuance oâ— mine own vnblessed destiny which increase in harmes pursuing and following me Alas said the lost Man what hope is there left where two such fortunes encounter Onely this said she that the extremity may change to good out of that confidence you shall know the vnkind fortune that gouernâ— me This image of griefe or rather true griefe my selfe am called Bellamiraâ— my father was called Detareus a great Lord in this Country and Steward oâ— the Kings house fauoured by him but at last sent in an Embassage whereiâ— he was lost wherewith my misery ran on to this height He had many chilâ—dren but most borne to misfortune my self being his first as sent the sooner tâ— taste of miserie for being much at the Court with my father before I kneâ— what loue was I was his prisoner I pined sigh wept but knew not what thâ— paine was till at last the Tyrant shewed from whence the danger came buâ— with it shewed the impossibilitie of obtaining hee hauing setled his affectâ—â—ons in another place nor had I pride enÌ„ough to thinke my selfe able to wiâ— him from the Princesse for she it was hee did affect a Lady deseruing the title of excellent had not her pride and other defacing imperfections throwne a blacke Scarfe ouer her outward fairenes This Lady hee loued but as afterwards I found no more constantly then your sex vseth not meaning to bee a Phaenix among men-louers for feare of enuy When I perceiued his eyes somewhat fauourably to bend themselues to me vnhappy foole that I was I held and valued it my certaine comming fortune giuing mee such hope as perswaded mee without feare to see the end which brought mee to the ambition to bee at a great marriage which was at the Court the King gracing a young Lord so farre as to haue his Nuptials performed there Then did I more plainely see his respect to me his shifts and meanes to bee neare mee certaine proofes of loue his alluring eyes telmee his heart appointed them the messengers to discouer what he sought which
fell into the greatest fearing the deliuery of my letter I sent it to him who was the only bar of the deliuering of it or theÌ„ I sent as at his death I found in a Cabinet deliuered by his owne hands vnto mee with teares and humble petition for pardon that so hee might die quietly which as he lamentably protested hee could not doe nor peaceably leaue this world I forgaue him and in that Cabinet found three of my letters which close me in the misery I now suffer thereby I saw manifestly I was betrayed loosing the enioying of what the losse brought my vtter ruine for I assuredly confident in him sent my letters still to him trusting him contrary to iudgement neuer receiuing answere of them but excuses from him selfe as since I find were framed by him sometime saying he could not then write but in short time he would send one of purpose to me I remained as louers enioying their like quiet But many weekes hauing passed I writ againe setting downe how I was solicited by him hee knew of almost threatned by my parents yet had they nor should they gaine more then this that he like all others should be refused for his sake if it would please him to accept of me and my truest affection wholly dedicated to him This vnfortunately I sent as the others and so kept comming the same morning before hee was by his Villany contracted to the great Heire of the Forrest Twise I was sending it by a trusty seruant of my mothers but Desteny preuailed and I destined to mischiefe could not withstand my ills Perplex'd I was with my fortune when I saw or thought I saw my faith reiected mad at my patience that forced me to beare such iniuries cursed the harme yet loued the harmeâ—maker till one night my father and many of his friends at supper the procurer of my miserie came in who was beloued and respected by my father for his learning and for his seruice to his friend and so was entertained by him placing him next vnto himselfe while I with vncertaine lookes and doubtfull blushings cast mine eyes on him yet stayed them not long there lest they might bee vnderstood my heart guiltie of the loue my soule bare to his Lord causing such a mistrust of discouerie in my owne conscience as that modestie hindred mee from discouering my harme which his countenance had else been ready to bewray as since I vnderstood by some that marked him as they sat at meate My father asked how his most noble Lord did fare Well my Lord said he but growne of late too cunning for vs al for would you thinke it he hath finely got a wife This made me boldly to looke vp for what would not such a deadly wound cause in one if it were but only to look boldly on their end life lasting in mee but to know certainely my death being so eager of it as I my self had demanded it had not my father soone preuented me asking who it was Why said hee the fly Youth hath got the mighty Heire of the Forrest I hearing it discernd my hast to bee like theirs that run to the top of the highest Rock to throw themselues from thence so did I for those words strake me dead my spirits falling and failing me encountred with the depth and bruise of fortune aduerse to me I fell from the table in a swound All ran to me or about me none because none thought I loued being able or willing to guesse the reason except the Serpent whose poyson strake me I was with care and diligence brought to my selfe againe which when I had sense to know I blamd that sense that brought that knowledge to me condemning fortune who would not permit one of her owne sex so much fauour as to die hauing such cause Then came my speech againe which I onely employd to this purpose to desire some of the seruants to leade me to my chamber beseeching the company not to stirre assuring them that there was no danger for vsually I had had such fits my father and mother especially whose loues were most vnto me and dearest to me would haue gone with mee but I preuaild the moouer of my torment looking on me with as much pitie as the Master of a good Dog doth on him when he is hurt by his owne setting on vpon either Bull or Beare When I came to my Chamber I pretended a desire to rest which made me abler to dwell in any vnrest Sir if euer you haue felt loue so perfectly as to deserue your name imagine to your selfe what I felt seeing scorne disdaine presented to mine eies nay what of all is cruelst vnkindnes Vnkindnes to a perfect louing heart is indeed said he of all miseries the cruellest and most murthering Haue you alas Sir said she felt that griefe That only said he perplexeth me I cannot say I was disdain'd for I was cherished I was not scorned but receiued I lou'd and was beloued but now I feare she is vnkind Let not feare without assurance said shee molest you lest it make you indeed loose by mistrust what is yet but mistrusted to be lost I beseech you said hee proceede and let my misfortunes remaine in me by none else thought on Yet said shee being forsaken is a greater miserie for such a losse is losse of all hope or ioy in life the other may bee helped againe with kindnesse and this I finde for had I not enioyed a heauenly happinesse I neuer had complained But to goe on being come to my chamber and hauing liberty by priuatnesse to exercise my sorrow in the absence of all but it selfe I thus began to mourne O loue cride I was it not enough that thou didst win mee to thy power and that thou didst possesse me in those yeares when first it was possible for maiden thoughts to entertaine thee to make mee chuse guiding mine eyes to the choice of one where perfections linked themselues to chaine my powers and enuy from all such that thinking I loued thee maliced my happinesse as if I had enioyed Yet cruell you cannot thinke all that I suffered by passion hatred of others enuy paine torment and all miserie sufficient but you must turne crosse and find a greater to afflict me Why did you grant me Paradise of hope to throw me downe to bottoms of despaire Why did you glory to inuite my heart to yeeld vnto the winning power of eyes eyes which were able to gaine moreâ— then hearts thrice doubled could repay with loue Fie intising eyes why wan you mee onely of set purpose to kill me with your frownes this was pretended murder your sparkling conquest seemd to gaine by vnresistable darts soules to your will and their smiles promised vnresistable darts soules to your will and their smiles promised to saue when won but triall proues you win alone to spoile Was it a victory sufficient to get and worthlesse of keeping It seemes so since you leaue
they brought discourse of my best loue who delighted in those sports Thus I continued firmly and chastly louing but then pleasure enuying my good call'd misfortune into company for my husband dyed and not long after my only sonne slaine in this vnfortunate Groue following those sports his father loued This was not all my losse for afterwards succeded my last and greatest for he whom I so much esteemed prooued false all the paines I suffered left vnrewarded not thought on What hazards I had runne for his loue what dangers pass'd and neuer shun'd to satisfie his mind his owne soule shall demonstrate my tongue neuer relate but this he must giue me leaue to say that neuer man was more vniust nor causlesly vnkind Into this Caue I then confined my selfe and hence I haue not stirred further then you finde me nor will heere purposing to end and with my deerest son be laid who only was to me constaÌ„t in affection to him daily doe I perform those rights beloÌ„ging to the dead after the maÌ„ner of our country In these parts you can finde no more then now you see my miserable spectacle and this Caue but at the end of the plaine you shall finde an other Bridge kept by two strong Knights as any this Kingdome yeelds yet I think to you will be but like the others if they try them selues which I desire they should not doe but that you will for my sake passe them So I may doe that with honor answered the King I shall willingly doe this or any other seruice you shall please to command but in requitall I must beg one fauour of you which must not be denyed She protested she would obay him in anything Then said he leaue this sad abiding for a while and your dead loue to goe to a liuing friend nor will I vrge you to goe from sadnesse quite hauing such cause of sorrow but to a sad abyding yet a ioyfull meeting Your father Detereus is not as you imagined lost in his Ambassage though lost to all content but liues an Hermits life on a Rock before Saint Maura much he desires to know of your safety and inioyned me to enquire of you if euer I hapned to this Country I promised him I would not being able to perswade him from that place goe you then to him and carry comfort with you to his age if you cannot bring him thence you may abide with him and thus not leaue sorrowing hauing still so sad a subiect before you as to behold so worthy a mans low state but if true iudgment rule in either to ouer rule passion I hope to see you both againe your selues She was strook with amazement to heare this newes but so perfectly hee discoursed of her fathers affaires and so truly described him as shee knew hee spake but truthâ— whereupon shee resolued to goe thither and vpon that sent for her Knights that kept the other Bridge to attend her while Amphilanthus againe desired to heare more of the sad story then Sir said shee heare the last When I was a Widdow and suffered so many crosses my poore beauty decayed so did his loue which though he oft protested to bee fixed on my worth loue to him yet my face's alteration gaue his eyes distaste or liberty from former bands to looke else where and so he looked as tooke his heart at last from me making that a poore seruant to his false eyes to follow still their change I grieued for it yet neuer lessned my affection blaming such cruelty and cruelty for lodging in him not himselfe for being cruell so as my loue grew still and in a strange manner to affect where losse was where vnkindnesse vngratefulnesse scorne and forsaking dwelt odd motiues to loue yet lou'd I the keeper of these wrongs lamented the sense of them pined in my misery and yet Sir truly can I not hate this man but loue him stil so wel as if he could look backe on me with loue all former ills should be forgotten but that cannot be such an vnfortunate strangnes hath beene betwixt vs as wee neuer meeteâ— or if we did what can this wrinckled face and decayed beauty hope for yet were I blessed if hee did but thus much speake kindly to mee pittie me and vse mee courteously who haue suffered enough to merit this respect but I thinke selfe accusing falshood makes him shunne me Alas doe not so for I forgiue all and affect thee still and dye will iâ— this loue You did said Amphilanthus in your discourse touch vpon a quality rare in women and yet I haue seene some excellent things of their writings let me be so much bound to you as to heare some of your Verses Truely Sir said she so long it is since I made any and the subiect growne so strange as I can hardly cal them to memory which I made hauing desired to forget all things but my loue fearing that the â—ight or thought of them would bring on the ioyes then felt the sorrowes soone succeeding This is but an excuse said he Truly Sir said she it is truth yet I thinke I can say the last I made which were vpon this occasion one time after he had begun to change hee yet did visite mee and vse mee somtimes well and once so kindly as I grew to hope a little whereupon I writ these lines lying in an Orchard vnder a great Quince tree the weather being as if it did threaten my teares to follow the drops then following they were these AS these drops fall so Hope drops now on me sparingly coole yet much more then of late as with Dispaire I changed had a state yet not posses'd gouerne but modestly Deerest let these dropps heauenly showers proue and but the Sea fit to receiue thy streames in multitudes compare but with Sun beames and make sweete mixture twixt them and thy loue The Seas rich plenty ioynd to our delights the Sunn 's kind warmth vnto thy pleasing smiles when wisest hearts thy loue-make-eyes beguiles and vassell brings to them the greatest Sprites Raine on me rather then be drye I gaine nothing so much as by such harmeles teares which take away the paines of louing feares and finely winns an euer lasting raigne But if like heate drops you do wast away glad as disburden'd of a hot desire let me be rather lost perish in fire then by those hopefull signes brought to decay Sweete be a louer puer and permanent cast off gay cloathes of change and such false slights loue is not loue but where truth hath her rights else like boughs from the perfect body rent And perfect are you sweet Bellamira said the King in this Art pittie it is that you should hide or darken so rare a gift His commendations brought the fruite of gayning more and so they pass'd some two dayes till shee was ready to take her iourney the Kings then parting from her and following their search being discouerd to the Lady by
him as I flatteringly commended my selfe for being able to winne a heart hee frequented my company after vowing all respect and begging liberty to see mee which should be without touch to me or my honour Vnder this ciuill demaund I perished for then did his second Act please better then the first and I yeelded though he asked not and so I was made an vnfortunate creature for what danger such loue could procure I fell into I neede say no more I 'me sure by this you vnderstand me I was carefull of my reputation to the world though to my selfe I knewe how it was wracked all possible meanes to auoide reproach I tooke as I thought safely and cunningly I carried the matter yet walked I in net or like the fowle that when the head is hid thinkes all is safe though his body lye open to â—ight So did I blinde my selfe while my action was brought to light trusting an vnworthy woman who for couetousnesse vndid meâ— leauing others vnsatisfied that for meere reuenge spred my shame which came to my husbands eares and to my brothers who inquired the businesse and found it so likely or it may bee true as hee left mee yet I writ to him and so faire a letter for likelihood and comming from a Sister as might haue got credit but it preuailed not otherwise then to bee forsaken of him Then did my husband take a disgracefull course against mee that Country being very strict in punishment for such offences I was condemn'd and censur'd and indur'd my punishment but then I thought how this man for my paines fuffâ—red for his sake I should haue found affection or continuance of his loue hee also left mee and in such case as I haue no money or meanes but to sterue for want my estate being againe seased on by my husband and yeelded him by censure I writ to Amphilanthus to assist mee which his noblenesse I make no question in tendernesse to Ladies would haue done but hee was call'd away and I feare informed of my fault which now I am doubly asham'd of and grieu'd for Alas Sir I haue made a free though a briefe confession to you I am the wofull'st woman liuing of a good house but ill life of noble parentage but meane disposition yet O Sir for mercy sake pitty mee Philarchos beheld her of personage tall and well shaped faire of complexion good eyes sweet fauour and of so modest a behauiour as if her owne tongue had not accused her she had passed vnblam'd for any show of ill in her fashion or lightnesse in her countenance Hee pittied her and demanded what he might doe to helpe her Shee told him that if he would ride with her to her brothers Castle which was within aleague she doubted not but hee might obtaine her peace yet dare not I aduenture within his gates said shee vntill you haue preuailed towards the Castle they went being within sight of it Philarchos spake to Perissus to goe first Nay said he since you haue vndertaken the matter I will not be so hasty to take it out of your hands therefore do what you thinke best on he went and met the Lord of the Castle her brother with whom he spake a good space a ciuil fine Gentleman he seem'd learned and stored with noble qualities vnmarried but a Cousen germane liu'd in his house to gouerne as Mistris Shee was not so young nor beautifull as one might imagine any other cause then to order his houshold was the motiue of her liuing there yet she was a braue Lady more manly in her demeanour and discourse then the modestest of her sexe would venture to be and so much that fashion affected her as she was a little too vnlike a well gouerned Lady Shâ—e had beene hansomer a cruell word but is true and yet she might well be seeme a faire houses gouernment the Lord was courteous and so kinde to his Sisters honour which likewise was his as hee tendred it aboue the rate his Couâ—en would haue him who out of care of all womens credits as shee pretended raild bitterly against her reuiling her for immodesty for dishonouring her house shaming her bloud more adoe shâ—e kept then he who it did more neerely concerne yet at last so fairely Philarchos spake and Perissus so well wrought with him as they got his fauour so farre that he was contented to see her but by no meanes in some time to haue her abide with him they satisfied themselues with that for the first and so brought her in to him the next day they all parted some one way some another the two companions together till they came to the neerest part of Achaia to Corinth then Philarchos meant to crosse the Gulfe but Perissus aduised by no meanes to venture it yet he preuaild and so they got a little Barque which was no sooner vnder sayle but with great speed made way till they were encountred by a Ship which would needs take them as prisoners They were not made to yeeld as they thought neuer hauing beene bred to any such thing wherefore they brauely fought and at the boarding got into their ship fighting with such valour as they amazed all that saw them and made their party good a great space at last they were so hardly laid vnto as they found yeelding must bee their best defence but contarily it hapned for another Ship made towards them boarding them likewise the fight now anew begun the strangers fierce and the others a little wearied yet what most troubled them was that the two first encountred Knights got new heart againe and fought as freshly as at first Discouraged with that and vexed with the blowes of the last succourers they would haue shewed them a trick by suddden falling off from them but the deuice was discouered and they for their deceipt punished with no lesse then death The two last were knowne to be Selarinus and Antissius so the foure tooke their course to Corinth where they were brauely entertained Now were all the eight Champions together none missing but Amphilanthus and Ollorandus and Steriamus who was alone who will in short time likewise arriue Rosindy and Selarinus the two deare friends hauing beene long as their loue made them thinke asunder renewed their kindnesse and manner of friendly conuersation into a walke priuate and sweete they passd where loue possessed Selarinus so farre as hee brake into these passions Alas Rosindy said hee did euer heauen thus punish louers was any soule tortur'd like mine or so vniustly condemned to death what did that chast deare soule merit to bee taken away and carried from his brest that held it dearest Why was sweet and dainty Philistella depriued mine eyes and all my sense of hearing of her accursed Sea that brought this misfortune dambn'd Barque that betraid her and wicked vanity that inticed them to such harme Was euer beauty so treacherously handled Did euer eyes see such mischiefe or eares haue hearing to so
visited her husband and her Kinsman the Lady hee was to court at her louers returne they discoursed of all the passed businesse shee contented because hee was pleas'd and hee to finde her faith and affection best contented the Gentlewoman affraid who thought to bring the braue Lady vnder her power but her spirit was onely to submit to loue happy she accounted her selfe euen to blessednesse in her loues requitall but within one yeere after whether fully satisfied with her loue or inamoured which if I might speake what I thinke was the truer cause of another in that place led him astray from his first and fell into the other as violently if not lesse discreetly Shee sweete Lady first condemned the choyce but when she saw she could not by strong hand hold him she fell to petitioning his returne of loue to her she writ to him she spake to him she did all that a perplexed woman could doe but all prospered alike To her companion and friend she complained she wept to her she comforted her nor would she beleeue a long time that it was so but chid her as if guilty of false accusing but when she sawe it as plainly as all others did she then pitied her but could not helpe her when she found no hope nor helpe she vow'd to die a constant though vnfortunate louer griefe made her loose all rest that made her distemper'd and so sicke as none had hope of her life her husband was tender ouer her and tooke such paines as hee himselfe fell as sicke or worse then she who recouered but he died then did she sorrow for him whom before she scarce cared for but noblenesse made her gratefull and to haue that vertue in herselfe the want of which at that time in her other selfe caused her torment When she had performed those rights belonging to her dead husband and held her selfe according to the manner vnseene for such a time she was visited and by her friend and louer who came together bringing likewise his new loue her Riuall who neuerthelesse she vsed well though she loued her not in that respect but as her selfe she held a kind opinion of her but her losse made her seeme vnpleasinger in her eyes especially to see him as if in cruelty so cherish her before her face which he continued in to the height of neglecting and scorning her who best deserued him before the other as if to merrit the more from her but herein was his fault not for louing that being a passion cannot be resisted but for hating where he was sought beloued and had loued for if he had not he could not haue vsed that fashion he did some will say it was to make himselfe free from her importunity he might haue sued from that and haue dealt more iustly and plainely told her what he stroue by fashion to expresse publikely yet when some time he came to visit her priuately he vsed her better showing hy that he would not loose any thing though he did esteeme of it as nothing this more then cruelty and she suffered wiâ—h more then patience a rare but ill example that a woman who could contemne all passions must yet be such a slaue to one and one that slauishly vsed her What could be lost she parted from content quiet honour rest reputation fortunes to succeed for no match was offered her that was not resolued of refusall nor at last any all agreeing her loue was so fixed as it was but vanitie to seeke to remoue it or gaine it from the place She being in this estate setled what meanes she had by friends and her owne suite to the Lord of Corsu this little Island or Rocke was bestowed vpon her whither she came there liued in solitarinesse once not long before Steriamus his arriual her stil loued though not louing Lord by a storme was cast there she not at first knowing it to be him tooke him vp halfe dead tumbled with the Sea and wracke she restored him to life and health againe bringing him home to her house and with her wonted affection as forgetting all vnkindnesse or rather to make her vertue in constant louing approued she cherished him and without showe of discontent entertained him but nice she was to speake or touch of loue He vsed her with all respect and much kindnesse seeing her fashion to him and hauing as he might well doe seene her teares for his harmes which she with care repaied he staied there till he was well but thence was fetched by another Lady who hearing of his being there and the danger hee had escaped came thither she was kindly made welcome to her although that she knew she at that time was his Mistris and this knowledge she had from her traine-layer who out of hate I imagine rather then loue told it her but the storme of her tormeÌ„t was passed now loued this Lady for louing him her quarrell being but to her that had wonne him immediately from her so as this Lady was embraced by her and as a friend receiued for so she counts all that loues him or that he loues a strange expression this is of a loue yet true it is for this the Lady doth she brought them to the Boate bid them farewell cheerefully he told her the former strangenesse should be no more she said then should she forget it euer had beene thus without passion but with true friendship they parted who could not in times pass'd haue said farewell but in teares and such end hath likely so hot and passionate beginnings to end in ashes what began in flames and therefore this last is the surest loue which will hold while the truth of friendship is esteemed This Steriamus got knowledge of by peâ—ces from her who would not complaine nor tell the story her selfe for feare of misconstruction of the hearers least the relation so rare should haue beene taken for an Allegory and not a story wherein her vertue should be painted and not found or indeede the true cause was that although she had with all earnestnesse care and study striuen to forget her loue and miserable fortunes hauing at last obtained all but hating him which her soule would neuer consent to so wel she still loues him as she will not let her tongue accuse him nay it is so to be feared she will rather blame her selfe then him were it not for making her selfe by that vnworthy and so that way likewise wrong his iudgement the eare she hath is to preserue his worth no reuenge in her but what her owne heart indured certainly she resolues to loue and respect him most she did with excellent discourse and respectiue fashion vse him who told her all the aduentures of the lost Ladies which he gained by the seruant of Rosindy who was sent to tell him of it and after as iust as he landed also arriued to his great comfort perswading her so perfect a louer to goe also and
all this makes you I perceiue run further in your error therfoâ—e not to hold you any longer in this doubt it is the Shepherdesse that sat on the right hand of the fairest that I seeke to gaine and now I hope shall win for she lookes kindly on me takes my presâ—nts smiles vpon my flockes cherisheth my Dog when he fawnes on her who as if he knew his Masters mind stil waights on her lyes at her feete when God knowes I could be he and oft do enuy his good luck when she doth stroke him on the backe and playes with him she takes my Songs and â—ings them happy lines that euer gaind such blisse to kisse those sweet lippes passing into ayre as scorning other place then her breast when she will expose them vnto eares should harbour them she sometimes likewise will giue mee some of her making and commends my voice makes me sing to her which I doe and yeeld her owne words to her best knowing iudgement She requires mee presently and sings mine vnto me then I say they are only good when she doth grace them so she answers best our songs befits our mouthes and eares these are not onely signes but I doe thinke or much do flatter my poore selfe they are assurances and thus Sir now I hope that you are satisfied I am said he doublie tide to you for your relation which doth speak iust truth and for your loue which in this shews to me While they were thus discoursing they heard a pitiful cry as it were the shriks of womeÌ„ which made them hie to the Plaine where they saw the same fierce Beaâ—e hastily pursue the glory of those parts ready almost to close her in his iawes the rest of the women crying and assisting her onely with their lamentable voyces the only helpe that sex can yeeld in such a danger yet now came it wel for the noise brought Leonius to her aide who only sought to saue her selfe by flight but cryde not like the women No neede there was to desire or intreate him to assist for carried by the wings of loue he flew to her succour she seeing him runne to helpe her turned her course that way as shee ran her dainty leggs were seene discouering such excellency in shape and swiftnes as that had bin enough alone to conquer she passed by him hee standing still to encounter her enemy yet did his eyes cast amorous wishes after her his spirit raised in hope to meete the Beast who gaped as wanting breath to hold the ioy hee had in expectation to deuoure that sweete portion of excellent daintinesse furious to be deceiued he sought to execute his furie on him from whom he got a sharpe and sower encounter Leonius his sword passing into his throate wherewith he fell then strake he off his head for hauing let a presumptuous thought enter to hurt the delicatest Shepherdesse now Vrania had left that habit This blow being giuen the before flying beauty returnd but in a more quiet and soft pace which let the Italian with more leisure behold her crying within himselfe Oh that she had but as much affection as I haue loue then would she with as sweet swiftnes run to me as from the Beare which sight did in feare yet content so much as he could haue found in his heart but for her harme to haue indured the Beast and haue clasped her in his armes as she ran by him her danger hindred his attempting pleasure and so shee was saued taking her sight into his heart in stead of her longed-for selfe into his breast passions were as full in him as Motes in the ayre flying vp and downe like flies in a hot day buzing and swarming like Bees that for all their profitable hony bring stings with them or like a neast of Waspes that one time beset one with their fury and giue no profit if shund or ouercome except their owne poore bodies worthlesse and gainelesse those thoughts hee gathered together as like a Fisherman that in his net catcheth all that comes within it yet pickes hee out the choicest and appoints some to keepe some to sell some to giue and some to throw in againe as not fit for keeping so did he cull his seuerall passions some he chose to present her withall some to hold in himselfe to please her withall others not to be seene by her he cast away into the floud of his forgetfulnesse whence none should arise to giue her distaste a commendable vertue in Youth to shun what may by Youth shame to offend hee loued and therefore was curious not to displease his best beloued his highest desire being to content her by whom hee must only bee contented hee shunnes all else as she did the Beare which yet he loues because hee brought him meanes to doe her seruice When hee had killed the Beast hee tooke the Head Paw and Heart to present her withall Speeches hee framed to deliuer to her with those won reliques Prose and Verse hee summoned doubtfull which should please he stood as if musing what hee might doe to please her best hee feared one while the hideous face of the Beast would fright her therefore thought the heart fittest and enough to shew her as her prey the Paw hee thought fit because it was lifted vp against her and if that the Head as necessary which hatched the treason of these three and with these three he danced the Hay in discourse and still ended iust as vncertaine and apt to begin againe as to conclude a faire victorie made him thinke a fairer acceptance must be yeelded him a bold attempt to saue her boldnes might be waranted in that respect to speake to her desert then claimes reward how should the claime be answerd if not made he must then aduenture and asâ—e it refusall cannot bee where knowledge and instant sight sayes it is requisite Valor must be adored and loue cherished Tremblingly hee stood as if afraid of that dead which hee kild his hands shook that held the head his other hand strake off his eies vncertainly rold that were â—ixt to his ruin his legs shakes vnder him that against his enemies like pillars vphold his strength and courage and this is loue that made him seeme so weake a piece and it was loue that made him so fierce against her enemy he looked towards her and sigh'd within himselfe these lamentations Alas said he that that face the heauen of mildnes and sweetnesse should carry with it such cruell force as with delicacy to destroy why should those eyes my soules only comforts looke and not with as much loue as mine since they are fairer mine more louing they more beloued those dearest lipps let them not seuer if not to speake requitall to me let them not tel my bane yet rather then not suffer me to heare that voice speak any thing but if possible O speake but loue those feete and leggs the rich and matchlesse supporters of this our
imagin'd bashefull countenance and fashion saluted her I did thinke faire Nimph said the louing Shepherdesse that it had been impossible for me to finde any so like my selfe vnhappily wounded Why are you hurt faire Shepherdesse said shee alas I am sorry for you and wish your remedy for none knowes the torment of dispaire like to my selfe and therefore in charity would haue none else afflicted with it but it is very strange that such beauty should complaine Alas said shee oft times perfection is turnd to the contrary and so is it in me if in me be that you spake of but I pray sweet Nimph let me take boldnesse to demand of you of whence you are and what hath brought you hither Loue said she for this must be the first and last of my discourse all other matters how great soeuer being but dependances of this My name said shee is Leonia my profession was what my habits tell me to be but loue hath altered me no more must I abuse my Mistris who I serued since I haue left her and an new one now haue gain'd a poore change yet the fruit of change when for liberty and pleasure I get beggery and slauery Then this passion rare Shepherdesse for nothing but misery followes it Alas it is too late said shee you giue this couusell out of time for I am in the prison too fast locked by any meanes but by loue to bee freed Are you in loue then said Leonia Oh haples mâ— why said the Shepheardesse doth that grieue you It grieues me that such sweetnesse should be vexed It grieues me more crid shee that I loue in despaire Thus both afflict me said Leonia and on these doe I plaine and in them die Let vs sit downe and tell our woes said she Mine are all endlesse said the Nimph yet I will not refuse to doe what you command for you may helpe me if you will but pitty mee I pitty you said shee and loue you for in you I see O deere remembrance many things which report sent my loue vnto mine eyes with that the Nimph did blush the Shepherdesse went on Be not offended sweetest Nimph said she for he was excellent whom I did loue and doe loue rare for true beauty and valour and O too braue for me none can be so sigh'd shee faire Shepherdesse for the fairest and brauest must sue to you for grace but I did blush to heare that I should seeme so fauourably blessed in your all-conquering eyes as to bee thought but to resemble him that happy man whom your great goodnesse loues But to goe on I was by my owne sute to my parents chösen a Nimph and accepted into the number and seruice of Dianas seruants being giuen to all those sports that Goddesse did affect but especially to throwing my Dart at markes and shooting in my bow at beasts or any thing so cunning I was in that exercise as I could hit a bird at great distance oft times I would take my Grayhounds and course the Deare or Haire being so nimble as I could follow them where ere they went these and many other harmelesse delights I liued in till one day sacrifising to Diana vnhappily for mee there came a Youth who hauing kild a terrible Beast offered it to the Goddesse as the Princesse of the Woods and Desarts this offering prooued strange making my heart the Victim bleeding and lying on the Altar dedicated to his loue thus doubly had hee conquerd I fainted fearing the chast Goddesse yet I was rescued by Venus who promisd her assistance but not so well armd by her as not afraid of Diana I fled from those parts and since haue I roamed about directed by mine owne despaire for neuer since haue I seâ—ne my loue the forgetfull Goddesse hauing enough in winning but scorning too much care hath I feare forgotten me contented with my yeelding but carelesse of my proceeding I seeke still but I know not with what hope I haue wept and grieued and so I feare still must and thus liues and perpetually laments the poore vnblessed Leonia The Shepherdesse catching her in her armes Ah my companion in my woes said she let vs still liue together fittest for our fortunes let our teares be shed together our sighs breathed together and let vs neuer part but alwaies keepe together This was what the Nimph desired being so glad of that embracement as she could haue found in her heart to haue forgot her habits but danger of loosing all if not gouernd with modestie till apter time gaine fitter oportunity of discouery she only with an affectionate kisse and that shee would not suffer her selfe to misse being such an one as liked Veralinda for so the Shepherdesse was called better then any of her fellows kisses for this seemd more passionatly kind gaue liberty to that and then began her owne discourse thus My name is Veralinda daughter I am to the Kings Shepherd who dwels vpon yonder Hill his place estate in goods and some kind of thing in me which these people here call beauty hath made me to be sought by many but I haue still refused all truly I must say with some neglectiuenesse for which I am punished and if I flatter not my selfe aboue my merit the paine being more then the offence for I am made to loue in dispaire to hope in losse and affect one I know not or can aspire to thought of euer seeing him againe Destiny preuailing in this I am left a poore example of the Fates tyranny for how can I hope that if I meet him hee could fancy mee he a Knight I a poore Maide he a Prince it may be and surely is for Princely vertues dwell in him beautie vnexpressable and such as but in you I neuer saw any like him and so like are you as I loue you for his sake so much as loue can command loue to the Image of their Deare Valiant hee is aboue expression and mild and curteous but what doth grieue my soule most is heâ— surely loues And surely would loue you said the Nimph if hee could bee but happy with the knowledge in the meane space grace mee with your fauour which I will striue like him to merit let mee enioy those sweete embracements you would yeeld to him and thinke I am your loue which I will doe by you and in that thought till wee bee blessed with perfecter enioyings we shall haue some â—ase She condescended and so they kissed againe wishing and louing they remained passing many such pleasant times till at last the wonder of such affection twixt women was discouered and it may be had then bin brought to light had not the Shepherdesses arriued to his griefe and no way to her content who truly loued the sweete conuersation and discourse of this Nimph to the Fountaine they then altogether tooke their way the Nimph setting herselfe so as she might both see and touch the loued Shepherds all the rest beholding this stranger
came abroad againe with my pardon and the Kings fauour I met her shee as not guilty cheerefully and smilingly saluted mee but I that could leaue the worthiest for her without a cause could iustly bee offended so as I spake not to her nor since haue looked on her truely hating her very sight and in these habits haue I continued in this place doe I liue this life if a life you will call it yonder is the Castle shee lies buried in with whom I haue buried all content and with whom I will also lye the Court I haue left and all company ioying in nothing but my misery and this I neuer related before nor haue I spoken so many words since I first suffered this vnhappines nor will any more therefore Sir now I beseech you permit mee to bee silent and to passe to my dying liuing The King who was a perfect louer could not but lament with him and sorrow that so they should part but necessity compell'd and he granted his demaund the sad man going in his wonted mauer and the King holding his iourney still thinking and musing of this aduenture till another put him out of it and brought him to a little more mirth A dainty young wench came led betweene two hansome young men one browne and louely the other faire and beautifull many Lads and Lasses attending them some carrying flowers others Garlands some fruite some wine euery one hauing something to doe and extreame busie in that businesse because it was loue When they saw Ollorandus they ran to him and desired him to alight for hee was by the agreement to giue iudgement and end to this aduenture hee wondred why they had chosen him they said it was to be finished by the next Knight they met and that was himselfe then they set a kinde of Chayre vp which they carried with them hauing ioynts and with engines to bee placed any where ouer his head they hung the flowers and garlands except one that was held for him to whom the prize was giuen the grownd they also strewed with flowers Ollorandus sate still admiring what they would do with him smiling within himselfe to thinke what Amphilanthus would iudge of him if hee should finde him thus attended and set vp so like a May-game Lord but patiently he suffer'd them When they had done the Speaker appointed which was hee that held the Garland began thus Excellent Iudge may it please you to vnderstand this businesse consists of diuers matters yet all the matter is loue a thing possessing all a vaine passion afflicting most and yet this Gentleman M. Loue hath no abiding but a meere run away when hee hath done mischiefe and if followed where is hee found but iâ— hearts and there such straying harbours hee hath as hee is fortified euen with strength against the masters of them This youth who will neuer bee old hath wounded these two youths with one arrow for they loue this Lasse her hee hath wounded but it seemes louing women better then men hath taken more paines with her and bestowed two of her for she loues them both not being able to say whether she affecteth most it is no strange thing for a woman to loue two or many but the rarenesse is that one of that nimble louing kinde cannot take both and vse them after her own phantasie to say women can loue often is no wrong to them for who would not please themselues and what greater pleasure then variety Is it possible for one to bee contented to liue his whole life in one roome to heare but one speake to conuerse but with one to feede but on one thought if this bee hard where is womens fault that delighteth her selfe with change of Louers being but for that whereto wee were borne to seeke our owne happinesse and surely in that are they most happy for variety is their seruant waiting on them so diligently and so cherished by them as they are the excellent Mistrisses of that excelling pleasure To proue this Sir heere is a dainty example in a dainty subiect rare in all parts because rarest in it selfe here is a woman loues so equally as shee cannot chuse betweene these if beauty want in one louelinesse chalengeth her liking if beauty abound in the one sweetnes speakes for the other she loues both and so much as shee wishes if it were not for extreame losse they were but one and then shee could satisfie her selfe and that one her 's yet a greater wonder these two Riuals are friends not to say friends as not being enemies but affectionate friends and such as it is almost hard for either of them to tell whether hee loues her or his friend better yet both are enamoured of her This hath continued two yeeres now it is agreed on that the matter shall be iudged by the fâ—rst Knight you Sir are the man and to whom you giue her she shall be contented with him and leaue the other Ollorandus made answere that the matter was nice and a busines he no way desired to meddle in lest hee might offend not being able to iudge to please all parties but hee thought that such mutuall affections were better held sâ—â—ll as they were lest diuision might diuide the perfect loue betweene those friends for said hee a wound giuâ—n in the arme or body will heale and grow together if the sides be kept close but kept open it will though heale yet be in sundry parts So if shee be giâ—en to one and from the other it will breede a diuision in loue if not still to be as at first enioyed They all then spake and desired iudgement being resolute to stand to his censure Then must I said Ollorandus require one thing more for my perfecter ability you must each of you speake for your selues and tell what you can claime to merit her and what proofes you can alleadge of her affections to you and she must likewise tell her opinion they consented and the fairer youth beganne thus As I was one day after hunting somewhat hott and weary hauing laide my selfe vpon the grasse vnder a larger Oake this beloued soule came tripping with such daintines and sweete carelesnes as I was surprised with her finenes she cast her eyes on me but so as if chance not purpose of fauour had procured mee that grace but howsoeuer as dearely was her looke prized by me and my eyes as gladly met hers as in old time the Gentiles held the Sunne did kisse the lippes of Osiris she held her course I rose and followed her shee turned and started a litle like a fearefull dainty Deere and my deere she proued I tooke occasion to offer her my seruice seeing her alone least any rudenes might be offered she accepted it and so I attended her home she thanked me I tooke those thankes so kindly as they bound mee I told her to waite on her aftâ—r to deserue the fauour not then hauing merited so much She disliked not of
he take comfort in any thing else this is the crueller to me now he is changed like giuen to the heart strikes sure for curing yet is this though most true vanity in me to remember I haue done Thus shee would complaine but only to him who knew the continuance of her loue and had seene her once to be couerd but like flames the more pressed to rise the higher and now blowne elsewhere by a wauering winde The Ladies had euery day letters from the trauelling Court Pamphilia had some from her brothers and Cousen Leonius but els shee heard no newes Amphilanthus had forgot to write but she at last gain'd one letter from him by one from her which was respectiue and yet sad his answer was short but complementall this said she was not wont to be his stile but I must be content nothing did she see or heare but still of his glory and his loue This was once said shee belonging vnto meâ— but I was not worthy of them sure else he had not alter'd Meriana likewise to make her discourse passe away the time would often tell her storiâ—s she had knowne of his affection Alas would she say would some good body would tell her he was once and but lately as kindly mine for it grieues me more to heare her speak of it since each word wounds my soule then if all should only talke of it because I know she loues me vnwillingly will hurt me she is deceiu'd and betrai'd in this course she would not be a meanes to cut my life-strings with this cruelty some noble body tell her how hee lou'd me how I still loue him and then she will no more molest me nor abase our loues Sweet Meriana those dayes now are pass'd of my best delights be not you an increaser of my woe but curst remembrance for no new act of his in this change presents it selfe but giues a deaths blow to our ancient loues I could almost be brought to tell it her my selfe and would were it not to discouer his forgetfulnes and cruelty but rather then my lips shall giue the least way to discouer any fault in him I wil conceale all though they breake my heart and if I only could be saued by accusing him I sooner would be secret and so dye no my loue will not let me vse thee ill then be it as it is I le liue forsaken and forlorne yet silently I will indure this wrong nor once blame him to any others eare for deare alas he is to me deare to my eyes deare to my thoughts and dearest to my heart since he will rauish that poore part of all the ioy and sweet content it euer had conuerting it to bitter lasting paine Cruelly she thus remain'd perplex'd and cloathd in the wofulâ—'st robe of griefe what a miserable spectacle was this to see her once the comfort of the Court the starre that guided all the sweet delights now the poore testimony of another creature griefe hauing so decayed her as she seem'd scarce so like her selfe as an ill picture to the life her chamber her thoughts were only bound to her or rather she to them and thus did she remaine the sad example of forsaken loue The other Ladies louing in mirth and happinesse wanton with it like Kids in the Sunne for blessing shin'd on them and that this afflicted Lady did she said once know The Emperour and all his Kings and Princes held their way for Italy at last ariuing at Rome where the Pope sent the whole Clergy and Nobility to meete him without the Towne and with great pompe and ioy conducted him to the chiefe Church to giue thanks then vnto the Castle Triumphs began that night and the next day continued and many dayes to expresse the content of the Emperours arriuall but by his command all dangerous sports of the field were forbidden because he would haue no bloud mixed with his entering Iust they did but their speares had burs at the points for feare of piercing after Supper they had Barriers and all imitation of that braue warre they had lately brauely beene in and the Concluders of it To Naples he went to see his owne Country and People where hee was affectionately and sumptuously entertain'd surpassing all other places in magnificence as in affection to their owne Prince thence hee went to most parts of Italy that were in his way or not much out of it till he came to the neerest part of Germany and so passd without any aduenture carying the keyes as one may say of all those places to open his passage which way hee pleas'd neuer so pleasant a iourney all hearts contented leauing discontent as an vnprofitable thing at home Buda Prague Vienna all places he saw that were of worth traueld ouer the most part of Germany to see the strengths sometime for pleasure visited others At Franckford he was crown'd with the greatest applause content that euer Emperor was with the best reason for he was the most worthy and famous that euer reign'd oâ—er them but to all this ioy a little sorrow would needs come in for Leandrus after the Coronation whether with heate or ouer-exercising himselfe at these triumphs striuing to excell all in shew of loue fell sicke of a Plurisie a disease little known then which not being seene time enough or then taken he died thereof before his death writing a letter to Pamphilia and inclosing an infinite rich Ring within it which he besought her although he belieued shee cared not for it yet to keepe in memory of him who most affectionately and loyally loued her so as though her loue should not suffer in his death but as he loued her yet she might when she looked on that say â—he Master of this loued me These he gaue in charge to Leonius to send her which hee did comming to ger one morning after she had endured a sad and vnquiet night for she hauing got away from the company shut her doore pretending to sleepe but poore Lady little rest did shee enioy carrying the enemy within her selfe that held her eyes vnclosed her heart oppressed and be friended her in nothing except furnishing her with teares and new cause still to shed them O Pamphilia cride she was thy creation for thy ruine was thy birth giuen thee to haue a life wholly in affliction were all contrarieties to pleasure ioyned together for thee to possesse and vertues giuen thee to be vndone by else why was this rare excellent qualitie of constancy alotted thee was iudgement giuen me to make the worthiest choice wholly to discerne I chose well but to bee rewarded with that leane benefit and losse to bee my gaine Did I reiect the firme and spotles loue of that excellent Prince Steriamus the humble suites of all the greatest subiects and neighbour Princes slighted the earnestnesse of the noble Prince Leandrus refused all and made my selfe a Vassell in affection to him that weighes
neither mee nor these expressions of loue I haue done all this and I yet haue not done enough for O how worthy is he though vnkind to mee you might yet most cruell man haue shewed more gratefulnesse and I had been contented no colour you haue to excuse that with all for you knew my loue you seemed to cherish it all eyes saw it too for my face shewed it I stroue for nothing more then meanâ—s to declare it mine eyes did looke but for meanes to shew how they and I were won by you my lipps haue parted from themselues to let my tongue make true confession of that you then seemd with expressefull ioy and content to entertaine Where is that loue now gone where is that content you embraced departed and with that instant forgotten the Heauens will yet for me witnes my vnchanged heart and vnstained affection the aire hath been and is so fild with my complaints and protestations as I wonder it doth not like Ordinance rattle in your eares the Sunne hath blushed for you the Moone been pale and wan nay hid her face from my teares which I haue shed for your inconstancy All things heauenly and earthly pitie me except your selfe from whom onely good by pitie may arise Why did I open my heart alone to your loue shutting it to all other motions to be thus carelessely throwne off but I am well enough requited since had I fortunatly held these passions in me the fiercenes of them might by this haue rid me of these during torments haue left this poore body a loyall sacrifice to loue the loue of the most vngrateful Vngrateful why do I cal him so pardoÌ„ me dearest though despising deere I wrong you more in this title which is the worst that can be giuen to maÌ„ then you haue iniur'd me though with vnmerrited deceit it was a certaine and too great confidence ioyned with assurance of what I most desired that betrayed mee and my ioyes with it else I might sooner haue seene if not maskt with innocent belief and abusd with trust or am I punished for aspiring to the ioy soules on earth can beâ—t and chiefliest couet as blest with inioying in hauing your fixed loue Oh confidence I feare t is you that I must curse you are the honest though vnfortunat chanced-ill that haue vntied my hope Was it good nature made him so refraine my sight and presence nay vnlesse by force my words and that because you cannot loue still nor wil say so in charitie you will auoide all if so be yet more mercifull and multiply your pitie with this free increase kil me at once for all torture me not with sorrowes I will truly and religiously confesse I am not worthy of you but it is not my fault I wish I were so fit as you might euer loue and such an one as all the world might thinke fit for you then I know you would be iust nor wish I this for any benefit but for your loue for else in the comparison of other gaine vnto my selfe or any other then your loued selfe I rather would wish to be a Black-moore or any thing more dreadfull then allure affection to me if not from you thus would I be to merit your loued fauour the other to shew my selfe purer then either purest White or Black but faith will not preuaile I am forsaken and despised why dye I not it is not fit no t is not fit I still must liue and feele more cause of woe or better to say to see my cause of woe Cruell forsaker looke but once on mee or rather on my loue there you shall find if vnremoueable affection and zealous truth can seeme deserts I will and doe deserue you in them better then any and more then any if not not my selfe againe shall doe my câ—aselesse plaints may some way claime reward my nights spent wholly in salt floods of teares eyes turned to swelling Riuers may lament that they and I should thus regardlesse passe some other motiues which your selfe best knowes might tie you in a bond more kind and gratefull but these I vrge not be your owne best selfe and as once you were then will you still be free from cruelty if not accused by Iustice selfe and then too large a punishment will second the offence Offence alas I cannot call it one for I am yours and may not you dispose of yours as best doth like your selfe Yet is there meanes to helpe if you please to assist if not condemned I will remaine till I may haue my end which most I wish and speedily I trust to gaine then if your once most vallued vertuous gratefulnesse be sent t will be too late only this good I may receiue or my cold ashes for mee that when my death shall come vnto your eares your matchlesse heart may be content to let a sad thought hold you for a while and if so too too much for mee who still do wish your blessednesse In this manner vnluckie Princesse shee passed that night till day appeared Ay mee sad night said shee haue you now left mee too shall light afresh perplex mee my waylings â—itter were to bide in you afflictions sounded best in you darke blacke and terrible as you were is my state vncomfortable and affrighred howers suted better with my woes my fortune like your face my hopes blacker then your saddest Mantle whose dulnesse changeth them into despaire yet liked I you farre better then this flattering approaching day you truely shewed my selfe vnto my selfe you were mine eyes to make mee see my selfe and how farre distant I remaind from comfort in my want Then turned she in her bed and put her sad afflicted face into the pillow to hide day from her which she needed not her eyes labouring so fast to deliuer themselues of her teares as their shewers were sufficient clouds to dim all sight with them As she thus lay her Maide that waited next vnto her came in but not daring though so bold as to come into the chamber being more then without extraordinary businesse she durst doe to speake to her a little opened the curtaine and laid a letter by her shee started at it and asked from whom it came from the Prince Leonius said she With that she instantly went out againe Pamphilia opened it and finding another within her heart rise a little in deluding hope but by the little day that was her bed standing to the window she saw quickly what it was And is it come to this said she most true Leandrus I could methinks for thy sake blame my selfe for being cruell to thee yet maist thou rather thanke me who would not dissemble with thee not hauing any loue for thee that I would not deceiue thee This token of thy earnest faith and loue I le keep for thee and weare it for thee nor euer part with it vntill I die and then bequeath it to that Person I shall most affect and make
she call'd her in her sorrowes but as she pass'd along those pleasant plaines remembring that she had seen them in her flourishing time of fortune and when she was richer in blessings then they in plenty fuller of happines then they of sweetnes more ioyfull and hopefull then they delightfull or greene O Playnes cry'd shee how doth constancy protect and gard you in delicasie how doe miseries change and wither me deere Arcadia I loue you yet because my constancy suits with yours pitty me then that pines in that vertue and if euer I see you decaying I will waile with you A lasse heere haue I breath'd my blessings among you now must I reueale my losses yet continue as you were and I shall thinke misfortune only reserued for mee as best or fittest to deserue mischeife yet deere I loue thee still though faine would blame as iustly thy vnkindnes but loue forbids me I must for truths sake in loue suffer all without condemning cruell yet I may call thee and thou hast no cause to blame mee for that for thine owne soule tels thee I speake truth mend then or kindly with more violence end me The groue she then arriued at where sitting downe hard by where first she met Siluiana here said she once liued a poore true forsaken louer to her I come to finde and with her conclude my dayes then behoulding those places and her thoughts more perfectly setting them selues before her eyes which as the streme she made her glasse she with many sorrowfull sighs and deepe groanes vttered this Sonnet LOsse my molester at last patient be And satisfied with thy curst selfe or moue Thy mournefull force thus oft on periurd loue To wast a life which liues by mischeifes fee. Who will behould true misery veâ—w me And find what wit hath fain'd I fully proue A heauen-like blessing chang'd throwne from aboue Into Dispaire whose worst ill I doe see Had I not happy beene I had not knowne So great a losse a â—ing depos'd feeles most The torment of a Throne-like-want when lost And vp must looke to what late was his owne Lucifer downe cast his losse doth grieue My Paradice of ioy gone doe I liue Yes I doe liue cry'd she but to what end only to mourne lament and mâ—ane a state all pitty wants since musing in that place from whence it claymed is by due Would I could not accuse thee yet my loue is such as I would rather blame my selfe then thee deere this I must not doe for then my merrit so small could not aske reward I still am iust and purely loue thee O werr thou but vnstaind for thine owne worths sake my soule doth wish it thee though thou were cruell still Among the trees and bushes then she walkedâ— plucking of flowers which adorned their roots and then as a little higher thoughts did rise she saw inscriptions in the barke and vnder them left some of hers to witnesse her distresse where she found the letters intwined of Alatina and her loue she vnder them set hers and her deere loue thus spent she some howers till a pleasant tune and ioyfull voyces called her a little from her sadnesse going to the edge of the Groue shee perceiued a great troupe of Shepherds of all ages the young men with flowers on their heads the old with Iuy then came a dainty creature shee might thinke to be Siluiana but loathe she was to imagine she or any worthy woman would change nor indeed was willing to thinke her the same but some other delicate Lasse but at last she was forced to confesse it was Alarina and so she thought Siluianas vow was still vnviolated This woman came crowned with Roses led between two fine Shepherd youths after her followed all the Shepherdesses apparelld neatly finely after their custome She admired them and gazed like men on a miracle yet resolu'd not to stir nor discouer her selfe commanding only one of her trusty seruants to watch what the conclusion would be who brought her word that they were all entred the Temple and that it was for the solemnizing of Aâ—arinas wedding Alasse said she can there not liue two canstant women all at one time yet Pamphilia be thou still iust and though but thy selfe and so alone to suffer glory in such martyrdome Home shee then went thinking Alarina no companion for her when she was in her Chamber looking out of her window vpon the Gardens she had vsed to breath her passions of ioy as often as of paine in alasse cry'd she why doe all my old friends as it were turne the hand of my wretched Dyall to make me see my vnfortunate houres by I will said she leaue these enemy-turnd-friends and goe into my owne Country where at least I may finde new and vnknowne places though perhaps no more easefull yet before I goe I will see Alarina and so what change that change hath wrought in her Then gaue she order to the officers to prouide for her iourney to Pamphilia and commanded the same seruant of hers to find out Alarina and desire her to attend her in the Garden walks This was performed the sweet Shepheardesse attended the Queen who taxing her for her lightnesse in change thus answered her Braue Queen said she I confesse this most true that you haue said if onely truth in steadfastnes liued heere but if you will voucâ—safe me the hearing you shall see I am not faulty though the appearance to your iudging eyes may iudge me so had I broke my vow and my vow to truth in leauing Diana and louing a new loue I had vnpardonably err'd but Madam I am free from touch of fault in this and only Fortune is guilty of all I was beloued and lou'd againe deuoutly I was forsaken and for it grieued vnmeasurably I changed my state in dispaire t is true heere was I faulty to change at all but you imagine my fault is this alteration no Madam this is no changing but a happy returne to my first blessed estate for had I taken a new loue I could not haue beene pardoned any more then for refusing my old one when he offered his affection againe thus am I free and once more fortunate for now I haue my loue tyed by his owne and marriage vowes neuer such content as requitall of loue brings forth but yet returning loue exceeds it and so you will say when you shall find this happinesse of which I make no question Would your promises would proue true said Pamphilia though I then were taxed as I did you with change but I expect it not yet sweete Alarina how did hee preuaile against your resolution By strong force of loue said shee for Madam let vs flatter our selues neuer so much with thought of power to resist and set determinations to refuse while wee are alone or absent from the sight of him whose charms bewitcheth vs his sight againe giues life to our first passions and turnes the strength of
Pamphilias hee would not knowe it As they pass'd they saw a handsome and well cloathed woman neither walking running or staying but as if she had made a motion of them all and imployd them to her vanity shee one while cryed another chafed smil'd scratch'd her head stamp'd rail'd and all at Loue blind foolish thing said she be thou for euer hated and abandoned haue I not better deseru'd of thee then thus to be handled Must I be a miserable Testimony of thy cruelty when I merited thy best fauours I hate thee froward Childe and will neuer leaue reuiling thee till thou doest requite mee if neuer shame light on thee and thy Baby gouernment Haue I beene a quiet patient of all thy folliesâ— Suffered my selfe to fall vnder thy Tyranny to serue thy wilfulnesse and obey thy vaine employments Are these tollerable or am I not fit to be rewarded Peeuish Boy either speedily requite and pacifie me or be sure to be set forth in thy colours no Bird beares so various or seuerall calourd a Plume as thou dost in changeablenesse which shall not be neglected but set foorth to the life then Sir it may you will say I am bitter but the world shall see that you are vniust Waiward Babe I admire thou hast a face to doe all this withall 't was well faign'd at first that thou hadst no eyes which indeed is the true face for thou canst neither see truth nor be seene truly by it Vnworthy creature an inuention fram'd a thought lighter then thought a Bubble made by breath in a Shell blowne by a straw fired with a frowne reuiued by a smile and ruin'd by an neglect a stately and constant building that breath can destroy that looke can establish or the least of dislike sacke In this fury shee would haue persisted but this Troope had beene and were Louers wherefore they went to her who seem'd like a moouing or stirring water-worke she turn'd to them and from them againe shee cryd and groan'd then scornfully seem'd to defie passion and with a faint forged countenance would haue appeared sociable No greater diuersity is there in womens dispositions who are richer in that vanity then men then she had in her selfe so as good women might hope all the superfluous vanity of that sexe had beene collected and setled by vncertainty in her The Queene of Naples intreated Perissus to speake to her he did so she answr'ed iust like her demeanour at last the Queenes drew neerer to her and demanding some questions of her she answer'd them thus I am said shee a Gentlewoman though vngently vsed by Loue my name not worthy of Knowledge my estate ouerthrowne by mifortune my friends not to be named as being vnfit to consanguinate with miserie and indeed such a wretched forlorne soule as I am onely the shaddow of that kind men most contemne but for their owne sakes and necescities sometimes respect I haue most of my time beene among those of highest ranke but meanest requitall else I had not thus suffered I am a cast-downe-wretch not worthy of life or your presence let me then on these reasons petition departure you shall be noble in granting and I happy in being permitted my owne course Limena well liked this odd manner in her and would not licence her to be freed from them but desired to heare more for said shee I haue beene as you are afflicted and neuer felt more felicitie then in discoursing my woes besides I see you are apt to discouer your passions to these places why not then as well to vs who are and euer will be sensible of passion She lookd vpon her and with a noise betweene sighing and long breathing scorning directly to sigh she answered her that shee should haue what shee sought Then said the Queene I desire to know your losse your despiser aud yet dislike It is this said she I loued a Gentleman who was brother to the Dutches I seru'd hee loued me and swore it perfidious man I belieued him and granted what he asked he made of me as we doe of the best fortunes and was contented with nothing so much as with my Loue nor did I ioy or indeed glory in any thing but his affection this vndid mee and I a poore yeelded creature and spoiled by him remaind the poore Trophy of his victory and my losse I sought yet long time after I writ to him both in Verse and prose but alike to his vnderstanding and alike taken and receiu'd Hee remembred my kindnesses and thank'd me but yet rewarded them no further like a King that takes a Present and likes it but thinks it was his Subiects due to present it and so meanes not to reward the bringer scarse the giuer no more did he for I was both giuer and bringer and yet as one cast off and forlorne I vrgâ—d Faith and constancy hee confest it with faire words but alas his rewards were miserable and dry I then after a long and most laborious suit and toyle to winne or rather keepe but part what I once had had recouer'd not so much as dammages but all lay still on me I then writ some Verses to him which I haue in memory hauing made them vpon the subiect of many vnhappy Women but bringing them all to my sadd estate the Verses are long and teadious therefore if you please I will let them passe and continue my discourse Nay I pray said the Queene let vs haue them and the story too we haue time enough for both and no time being able to be better spent we can affoord the euening into the bargaine rather then misse such a relation Then Madam said shee when I saw no merit no loue no remembrance nor any thing could worke against a newe choice which he had made I framd these lines as my last peece resoluing if they preuailed not to let all goe and fall to the resolution or indeed more properly distraction I am now in the Lines be these DEare though vnconstant these I send to you As witnesses that still my Loue is true Receiue these Lines as Images of Death That beare the Infants of my latest breath And to my tryumph though I dye in woe With welcome glory since you will it so Especially my ending is the lesse When I Examples see of my distresse As Dido one whose misery was had By Loue for which shee in Deathes robes was clad Yet lost shee lesse then I for I possest And loue enioy'd she lik'd what was profest Most cruell and the death-lik'st kind of ill To lose the blessing of contentments will Faire Ariadne neuer tooke more care Then I did how you might in safety fare Her thrid my life was to draw you from harme My study wholly how I might all charme That dangerous were while pleasures you optain'd And I the hazard with the labour gain'd Yet shee this his life sau'd he her honor lost That false Prince Theseus flying left her crost With his abandoning
weâ—e ordain'd to doe that office while any of them remained aliue The King and Queene lamented the Louers pittying their miserable estates and vnfortunate aduentures giuing large allowance to the place to maintaine lights for euer ouer them and the keeping of the place to them and their heyres All charmes were now finished and yet the memory of the charme of such a loue neuer could be but extant Thus Parselius and his Queene were made happy with the rarest accident of loue and the richest Tombe Loue in the world had they return'd with all content honouring aboue all other places the Tombe of Loue returning soone after to their setled Court. Rosindy Meriana and Perselina hauing left the Court and returning with their best and conuenientest speed passing through a part of Achaia which was pleasant but slightly inhabited Perselina by reason of the heat intreated them to stay a while in those places they agreed to her demand Rosindy and Meriana like two new married people for fondnesse and affectionate kindnesse walking in the woods which were but of small heighth though thicke being like Copsies all of Birch saue heere and there an Oake would shew himselfe in pride and peremptorily tell them hee commanded in this place the King took great delight so as they sate downe where fearnes grew as if of purpose to bee their cushions and then with sweet and louing discourse they let the time steale away delight increasing while that litle addition of age grew on them vnfelt or thought on The delicate young Lady went by her selfe her thoughts farre higher then that solitarinesse could haue rais'd them had shee not carried a more aspiring and braue minde continually about her then ordinary women or the most extraordinary had her fortunes were so farre short of her spirit as shee suffered that to descend to wish an increase and sufficiency of estate though shee bought it with her marriage and so grow subiect to an Hnsband which though loath shee was to doe yet rather then want meanes shee would venture her limits of absolute freedome yet such her conceit of her owne iudgement was in which shee erred not much as shee thought shee should doe well enough with such a Husband as she would choose for free liuing many had beene named but one onely shee liked who had but one barre to hinder his desires which was that hee was a stranger and no Macedonian besides of that Nation which in former times had beene enemies though neighbours and this was the chiefe obstacle her Father a man of infinite spirit and hauing had her by the widdow Queene of Macedon after whose birth shee soone dyed hee thought none worthy of her especially an Achayan but acquaintance with Rosindy and seruâ—ce to Parselius had brought him so neere as shee resolu'd in her selfe if hee remained constant what euer came of it to bee his wife In this resolution shee walked vp aud downe the Cops plotting as many seuerall waies to compasse her desires as plentifull loue could furnish her withall at last an highway being through the Cops and shee heard by that way heard some comming downe towards her and one to sing this Song FRom a long way and Pilgrimage for Loue I am return'd weary'd with Trauels paine Not finding ease or those vexations mooue First to my soule they are where to remaine They vow to setle then alas can I Thinke of a rest but trauell till I die When she had finished her song Perselina standing among the buâ—hes by the way side saluted her who was a delicate but distressed creature in habits of a Pilgrime but carying a countenance that said for her shee was noble her traine halfe a dozen seruants of all kindes two Gentlewomen and foure men all on foote with staues in their hands bare footed and carrying their owne prouision in baggs at their backs she onely had hers carryed for her When she saw the Princesse who in apparell Greene and among the bushes appeard like Diana when in greatest perfection she stayd and with a modest salutation according to her estate answered the honour shee had receiued by her saluting her The Princesse desired her to rest her selfe a while with her Madam said shee then should I hope for that which yet I haue beene denied rest neuer knew I any one stop or other crossing me in it I would not said she haue you stand vpon the word but agree to my desire and meaning which is that you should stay with me and so a little desist from trauell She humbly gaue thankes but said her habits admitted but iourneys Eate and drinke said she you must let me but haue that time and lawfully may I demand it since your song tells mee your Pilgrimage is finished Madam said she in a kind it is indeede but not perfectly for till I finde my selfe in mine own home I shall not think it done Are you far from thatâ— No indeede answered the Stranger within a league and this my ground Perselina againe vrged and ciuillity made her consent so as thus she proceeded Madam said she to whose commands can bee no refusall say what you will haue your seruant my selfe performe for satisfaction to your will I must and will obserue you come in said shee into this thicke and there let vs conferre She obeyd and willed her seruants to attend for her in that place shee attending Perselina Both in the thickest part as close as their sufferings were to themselues they sate downe the Princesse desiring to know the cause of her trauellâ— She with as much desire of keeping that sâ—â—ret which must bee knowne answered thus Alas Madam cryd shee what torture doe you put me a poore vassell to your authority and loue to rehearse that which euery word strickes to my heart like daggers hath my first sight giuen you such dislike as you purpose to molest me Oâ— my little conuersation such distaste as you resolue to afflict me Otherwise why should you lay this waighty Crosse vpon me Not to bring any of these faire Pilgrime said the Princesse but to know exactly what I already mistrust led to it by your exellent speech and manner then said she like a woman I will be pleased with your commendations and as fond of them follow your requests I will yet by your fauour reserue some things to my selfe and they are these my name and Parentage onely I beseech you let me call my selfe as I appeare Poore Pelarina your creature liued in this Countrey when it was in that happinesse and innocency as those dayes were when Satirâ— Nimphs and Shepheards liu'd free with one another fearelesse of harmâ—s Wolues Foxes Sheepe and Lambes fedde liu'd and were as one Flocke neerer in familiarity then Goates are with the tamest now Plenty grewe for men to reape and they reap'd but what grewe for them In this time I found my selfe made mee thought vnto loue and I did loue accursed bee this Groue for it for heere O heere I
his owne Country a fine young Gentleman and who had in curtesie conducted the Lady of Rodes after her cruell fortune in the refusall of Polarchos and being intreated by the soueraignizing Queen to make relation of her end hauing heard part before by Pamphilia he did it in this sort Loue or rather the ill flower of Loue which you most incomperable Queene can know neither being so much in power aboue the highest reach of his passions which are rather your Subiects then molesters so ouer-ruled in that miserable Lady as after Polarchos was with all his curstnes gone she tooke her way also but whither shee much cared not nor look'd she for any company to attend her those that came with her dispearsed some one way some another leauing her as her fortune had done in all dispaires for who euer alone indures one mischeife I tooke pitty on her and although my way was contrary and I then almost at home yet rather then she should be distressed in such a kind of want I offered my selfe and she though not very willing to company accepted of my seruice most I thinke because she would haue some body to discourse withall and well had she happened on mee for shee could say nothing against men that I had not as much or more to speake against women She could not say Polarchos had beene curst or vnkind but I cold haue said my Mistris had beene false and so most cruell if Polarchos left her vpon cause mine forsooke me causlesly She could not complaine but I was neere rayling so as with all the wranglings and dislikes of both Sexes we trauel'd yet the better I euer had of her though in losse for shee was forced to confesse her's was the fault and with that so often done penitently at last agree'd with mee that Man was the constanter of the two vncertainties When wee had passâ—d the Gulfe of Lepanto and the necke of land betweene Morea and Achaia that we were got againe to Sea into the Archepelago in one of those little Islands we were forced to stay for she grew so weake what with trauell want of food for she would take no sustenance and her perpetuall sorrow which wrought incessantly in her so as she could no longer without rest sustaine nor so but to her eternall rest for there shee dyed desiring mee to bury her there and then to let Polarchos know her end for his vnkindnes to whom she gaue her Country for due she said to him beseeching him to accept of it as the gift of his repentant Loue making so louing an end as Cupid was surely forced vpon that to pardon all things past and place her in one of his highest ranckes of his Court. Iust as she dyed came thither an other Lady discontented likewise but in a maruelous strange sort my eares were now open to all complaints and complayners wherefore I gaue her the hearing who discoursed in this manner I was borne said she in Pantaleria bred in the seruice of Vrania now Queene of Albania the most excellent and famous of women I was with her enchanted in Ciprus and in her seruice being Daughter to her supposed Father I fell in loue with one Allimarlus of Romania a man fit for a greater womans loue but my fortune it was to winne it and surely if I flatter not my selfe too grosly I deserued it but indeed I did commit some faults but what were they only out of Loue and feare of losse from whence they proceeded such errors were rather to be commended then condemned but where loue failes a little matter is made great and nothing pleaseth when distast is taken I cannot truely for all this taxe him of much inconstancy yet so far he was faulty in it as I know he had a Lady in chase whether his loue to her or gratefulnes in him to her had beene the cause of it I cannot guesse I was tormented in soule withall I cryd to him about it He mildly and coldly enough told me my suspitions made my disquiets and bad me be satisfied for he lou'd me still and thus I could gaine no more of him nor durst I vrge for intruth besides loue I was in awe of him fearing his very frowne though on others no Louer euer longed more for the sight of his loue then I did stil to see him if absent but one day yet when I saw him I was in paine and knew not scarce what I did I was so desirous to please as I was amazed and distemper'd not being able resolutly to call for any thing to eate any thing to speake any sence blush and then looke pale and be in such a case as many dayes after scarce recouer'd me Lord how haue I accused my selfe for it but what remedy passion ouerruled my iudgement and when I should haue beene best and looked best the very extreamity of my loue made me worse then ordenarily I was then that troubled me and trouble made me worse so as I was oft times in a straight whither I were best be a meanes to see him often or let his visitations and meetings be by chance But when I considered he might take that amisse and so I should runne into iust dislike for our parts as women Louers are to obserue so as I continued like one ready still to goe to execution condemn'd but repriu'd more then I studied how I might gaine his loue sure to me of purpose I went and made my selfe so deere with the Lady who had sure testimony of his liberall affections as I was made of her Counsell and vsed in carrying the busines so as her honour might bee saued for shee was in that kind in danger I tooke such a course as shee was deliuered of that care this I did conueied away by diligence all suspition I know not what name this seruice merited me but all things were as they should bee and so secretly as no mistrust at all was of her The Lady in troth I could not but so much loue as I was sorry as shee likewise was at any time to part with mee in the face of parting me thought I saw my Allimarlus his leauing me whom he loued and after I accused for slighting her as much as I did before for being restrained in this manner to me for desert should euer merrit reward in what place soeuer but men care no longer then their desires be answered said shee otherwise I had bin better rewarded I haue had cause to giue trial of my faith and he hath found it yet am but more and more wretched When I felt my selfe with such neglect coupled as after I did I tould him of it he sate vpon my bed side but awhile gaue me not a word at last he spoke some few as drawne by necessity from him and bid me be carefull of my selfe and not bring more harme I told him I would be so were it but for that command's sake which must bee as his aboue all things
I refrained not the Court for al that my hart telling mee a dram of ioy in his sight was more cordiall then vialls ful of her disgraces could be hurtful to me He liked my sight as well and then being resolud to loose no opportunitie but rather make and find meanes wee met and I did freely let him haue knowledge of my constancy He was it seemd rauisht with ioy and beyond al others loue fond of me neuer being at rest but when with me A Gentleman there was in his company who had lik'd me wel and as far as he durst had sought mee for he was bashfull and I must confesse I was proud besides louing another To this man the king not being able to hide or conceale his happines tels al. When he had it guessing as I belieue it was and am confident he knew it to be me he came to me and after discourse of him and how good and firme a Louer he was besides his earnest and passionate pursuing he brake out into how happy and fortunate a man he was in his choice telling me my whole story and all that had passed with all said he when he told it me O cryd I that I might but know such a Loue to mee though presently I had died and surely so I should for I were not able to enioy such a ful blessing Did he tell you this story said I sure there is no such thing Yes certainely answered he he is so wrapt in the heauen of it as he cannot contain himself but who it is I know not for he only termd her a wench he lou'd who so dearely loued him as for his sake she had liu'd a Maiden-wife would haue euer had she not enioyd him I was angry at it yet then so much I lou'd him as though resolued to let him know how ill I tooke his discouering my secrets to any though in a third person yet when I saw him-I forgaue it and pitied him for louing me so much I not being able as I imagind and vndervalued my poore self to deserue such an affectioÌ„ nor truly shuld I haue altred my mind for any thing had he not cruelly vildly scornfully vsd me that changd me indeed and hath turnd my hart so much against him as euer since I haue fully assured of his disdaine vowed reuenge and plotted for it though I had gone into his country to execute it which I was preuented of by notice of his comming hither where I way-laid him at his comming but I grew tender again and let him passe yet when he was past I repented and as loue increaseth loue so the hate I had conceiud grew increasing in me with euery touch of memory of those passages now without al purpose of kindnes I took him with all cruelty meant to haue continued tormenting him priuatly keeping as I purposed his Maiesty for my recreation to see him torturd who so vncharitably cast me off defamd forsook me the last being to vs indeed the sharpst blow but telling with that she flew at him again to scratch him other hurt she could not do him To tel cryd she forsake me to They held her with much ado after by the kings permission but earnestly coniuring Veralinda to pardon her she had her liberty and so returnd to her Castle The King like al men at sometimes or other for such iniuries whipt though inwardly with as bitter strips held on his iourney for Frigia where he most safely arriued and with all content and happinesse hee with his daughter and sonne in law passed their dayes together The valliant and discreete Gentleman returned to the Lady againe with whom he spent most of his pretious time attending what he desired which was accomplished to his minde and left to him to make his owne vse of so as he might be pleased if he pleas'd Amphilanthus being in the morning vp ready to goe to his long'd for busines to add by that new more honor as kingdoms to his crown the Qu. Pamphilia with her counsell Noble men came vnto him whom she found attended on by his Princes who were all or most known to her the rest made her seruants by his respect vnto her there she saw prouisioÌ„ for the fight while she had as cruel a combat within her more terrible because her feare proceeding froÌ„ her loue made more dangers then blowes could be stroken between them She saw not one peece of his armour that was not cut through in tendernes of her heart and that bleeding for it The Prince of Transiluania was looking on his sheild which she casting her eyes vpon O said she that that were as true firme in mettle as my hart is in truth then would it nere be pierced Polarchos was curiously ouerlooking the armour to see it secure euery piece shee blessed with her soules wishes and euery pinn had a prayer for the strength of it so much goodnesse wishing it well danger must nâ—eds be farre off The Emperour marking her had inwardly new power and might giuen him by her constancy and strong affection forth they went excellent and rich Barges being ready to conuey them ouer the Lake being on the other side they parted the Queene backe againe to her Castle where she might if deerenes in loue would permit her see the combate which was not doubted but assured she could not suffer her eyes though louing them best when they saw him at this time giuen them liberty to doe but certainely her soules eyes in prayer beheld him more profitable surely at this time for he had no child to play withall The Emperour tooke his horse the State and Counsell of Pamphilia wayting on him as he mounted on horse-backe whether by chance or of purpose the horse trampled and turned vp and downe so as his face towards the Lake and Castle he sent kind lookes after her which that while her eyes wayting on him with comfort brought vnto her and made hers melt because they parted so he rode into the field vnarm'd his twelue Princes carrying his armes Polarchos being his Chamberlaine came next his Person and the Prince of Transiluania carryed his Crowne the Duke of Branswike Bauaria Lorraine Sauoy Sax Millan the Prince of Venice and the rest carried the Armour Launce and led the spare horse Into the head of the Army he rode which stood in battaile hee saluted them they exprest ther ioy to see him in all Souldier-like fashion before them he stood ready to arme when they discern'd from the other side the King with as much magnificence as was possible for him to shew when they were thus in the head of each Army he sent to intreate some speech of the Emperour he courteous and yet bold as any granted it and so they came towards each other taking one a peece with them the Emperour Polarchos the King the Master of his Horse They beheld each other like Lyons stirring
misfortune fell as vnluckily to loue each other loue I thinke I may say we did I am sure he liked at least much dissembled and I dare sweare I loued yet as a conclusion must come to all things so did there one fall and a desperate one for me for he left me alas vnkindly left me who intirely loued him and mourne in heart and soule still for him and my losse Alas said I to my selfe what made him leaue me he told me I was growne an old Wench he hath chosen an elder whom he adores and worships like a Saint and well may he doe so for shee seemes rather an Image then a fleshly body or rather a relique of what had been to bee reuerenced then a substance to be beloued But if I speake much in this kind your Maiestie may thinke enuy speakes in mee though this is but truth and most true that she hath the aduantage of winning and keeping a loue aboue all other women for so powerfull shee is in the gaining sparing neither estate honor nor trauell to accomplish her desires then so diligent and carefull in the preseruing her gaine as it is impossible to get one backe againe that shee hath gotten She will not neglect occasions seruices duties that seruants were fitter to doe nay so busie shee will be in her house to haue any thing shee imagines will please as shee appeares to strangers rather an Hostesse then a Mistris but such a Mistris shee hath euer been for he is but one of a great summe of seruants which shee hath past her time with all but now decayd and growne old as I and others are she holds only him at least as he thinks though God forgiue me if I belieue it not or that hee is alone and him by Inchantment surely for shee is now at this present the most contrary woman to his former choyces that can be inuented nay to his opinions as his owne hand can witnesse but he hath forgotten them as me and we must suffer to satisfie his varietie and loue to it But how if he returne to your loue will he be receiued or slighted said the Queene me thinkes these weeds promise pardon since none would mourne for that they care not for The care of him and for him made me first weare them answered Myrasilua but now I mourne for mine owne misfortune and I assure my selfe may still for any hope of his alteration no alas Madam he is left and I vndone may see it I confesse hee did many times about the the time of his change speak in a kind as if it had been my fault and neglect that made the alterations but my soule and his know the contrary I saw him going I sought to preuent it but when I found such priuate meetings such plots to cousen himselfe by deceiuing me and my trust in him I could not sue for impossibilities nor seeke where I was refused and wrongd Some said as I remember one that followed or haunted him I thinke that surely t was my lasinesse and her actiuenesse that won him Ah said I if he were to be wonne I could not loose him now I know I cannot keepe him nor could I almost keepe my wits for the affliction of it since I find he was and is but a man that I so much reuerenced no God but in my Idolatry a Diuell to my rest and quiet content of which I haue not tasted since his leauing me but so well or much acquainted with these as I thinke ioy or they would bee distastefull to me Be not of that opinion said Pamphilia but thinke how to embrace him with the former affection and loue as you were wont loue him and forget what is past remember it not so much as to question it wrap vp the former crosses and misfortunes all in a sheet of forgiuenes and drowne them in the Sea of your patience and renued loue smile on him and his repentance as on his loue and first sute welcome his returne as his first profession and embrace his second loue in the armes of your truest and dearest thoughts as you did his vowes and louing protestations be resolute to forget and in forgiuing receiue him a new man yet the same louer he was when perfectest If his perfections were not blotted with change said the Nimph I could doe them for in troth Madam my heart and soule reioyceth when I thinke or heare of him therefore I feare I cannot refuse which is the cause I pray daily to hold me out of his sight since I cannot see him but to my deadly torment in anothers possession then how may I hope to see him returne I find no possibilitie to enioy or hope for it Trust me said the Queene hee is recanting and ere long you will see it but be carefull in accepting lest the others importunitie and your slacknesse marre not all againe Then did the Queene tell her all that had passed betweene her the Emperour and the Shepheard which made her a most ioyfull woman and glad besides for his sake that the Queene tooke his talke so well touching her Maiesties selfe so nearely Their discourse ended and Myrasilua hauing giuen her word to be kind againe or rather to coutinue so as well in expression to him as in her heart she still had been entreated Pamphilia to sup and accept of such fare as Forresters had in those Desarts She gaue her many thanks and went out with her so they eat and after the Queen went to bed desiring to be alone the freelier to thinke of her other selfe and though she enioyed not his sight to see him liuely in her soule where he was ingrauen by faithfull memory O Amphilanthus said she why hast thou left thy poore Pamphilia thus newly raised from death of despaire to the life of hope and happinesse to be cast downe lower then before in misery My better and dearer selfe I know it was not thy meaning to leaue mee thus soone nor in this manner What Deuill is risen now to vndoe and murder my content Accursed bee this Wood the Day we went an hunting the motion to that rude sauage exercise and all appurtenances that brought or aided to my losse My sweetest life how doe I perpetually dye in thy absence My dearest heart returne and restore me else come to see me dieâ— and close my dying eyes with thy allâ— conquering and beloued hands or if it would grieue thee yet be content to spare me wishes in thy absence and liue thou as happy as thou art most worthy Let these eyes be blessed if possibly I may aske and obtaine such a blessing with seeing thee againe let me be the fortunate finder of thee and let me find thy fauour still to me then most luckely and eternally happy search With these and many more such passionate words shee spent most time of the night till being tired sleepe would haue his share of the royall Queene and so she slept but not
and mourne which she vowed during her life to doe and Polarchos to liue in some remote place neuer to see man nor creature more the excellentest being gone they saw out of holes in the stones smoake and fire suddenly to flie out with it Pamphilia aduentured and pulling hard at a ring of iron which appeared opned the great stone when a doore shewed entrance but within she might see a place like a Hell of flames and fire and as if many walking and throwing pieces of men and women vp and downe the flames partly burnt and they still stirring the fire and more brought in and the longer she looked the more she discernd yet all as in the hell of deceit at last she saw Musalina sitting in a Chaire of Gold a Crowne on her head and Lucenia holding a sword which Musalina tooke in her hand and before them Amphilanthus was standing with his heart ript open and Pamphilia written in it Musalina ready with the point of the sword to conclude all by razing that name out and so his heart as the wound to perish Faine she would nay there was no remedy but she would goe in to helpe him flames fier Hell it selfe not being frightfull enough to keepe her from passing through to him so with as firme and as hot flames as those she saw and more brauely and truly burning she ran into the fire but presently she was throwne out againe in a swound and the doore shut when she came to her selfe cursing her destinie meaning to attempt againe shee saw the stone whole and where the way into it was there were these words written FAithfull louers keepe from hence None but false ones here can enter This conclusion hath from whence Falsehood flowes and such may venter Polarchos attempted likewise but could only for being vnconstant passe the flames but not come within reach of the Emperour but then was cast out also The Queene then perceiued what this was and so as sadly as before resolued shee returned to the Court where more like a religious then a Court life she liued some yeares Polarchos presently prouided long gray Roabes like a Hermit and on the outside of the Armes-crowned Crowne he made a Cell where he liued daily beholding the Armes and lamenting for his Lord kissing the stone wherein he thought he was inclosed and thus liued he guarding the Armes of his Lord till the aduenture was concluded The other eleuen Princes that came with Amphilanthus into Pamphilia and were as Polarchos hath told you scatterd and deuided in the Desart it was the fortune of the Prince of Transiluania to come within two daies after to the same Lodge where the Queene had laine with the dainty sad Nimph but hearing of Pamphilias being well and safe onely perplexed for the want of Amphilanthus staied not but followed the search of them both till hee came to the sea-side where beholding the waues and comparing mens fortune to the rising falling and breaking of them he saw a little Bote come towards the land and in it a faire Damsell weeping and pitifully complaining The Prince tooke great compassion of her demanding the cause of her sorrow Alas Sir said she shall I tell you and you prooue like other Knights I may well then accuse my forwardnesse and paine but if you will promise to succour my Lady who is so faire worthy and great as will take away the shew of my imperfections perfect in nothing but duty to her I will then tell you what you aske Speake faire and sad Lady said he and I vow to serue your Lady and your selfe with my best indeauours although I must tell you I am in search of such as vnwillingly I would be diuerted but compassion compells me to serue you She thanked him and thus proceeded Blessed may you and all your enterprises be who for a distressed Ladies sake will lay aside your own occasions and let me know I beseech you to whom she is thus much ingaged I am said he Prince of Transiluania seruant to the Emperour Amphilanthus from whom I was parted in yonder Desart and haue since sought him and was yet in the quest of him and the Queene of this Country with eleuen Princes more his seruants all seuered from one another and seeking each other God send they may happily meete said she and you braue and courteous Prince be for euer happy for your noblenâ—sse The businesse which vrgeth mee to demand your helpe is this my Lady and Mistris is the Princesse of Lycia only daughter to the King of that Country next neighbor to this place so as your stay shall not bee very long from your search with this Lady the Lord of the Mountaines called Taurus an vnworthy man rude proud ill-fauourd sauage and rough as well in person as in maners but wonderfull powerfull and mighty of body meanes and people fell in loue shee being as delicate as hee abominable which made her hate him as much as he sought her but her father a good Prince louing peace would not prouoke warre but rather yeeld her to him This brought the sweete Princesse into desperate melancholly and dispaire but a Noble man as well in truth of vertue as descent and honour to defend her from so much harme tooke her into his protection the same day she should haue beene giuen to the Mountaine Lord venturing life honors and estate to keepe her free This being discerned by the cruell proud man and her father the good old King troubled withall vtterly disclayming any knowledge of it they raised men to take her backe by force and catch him who should certainely suffer for such an attempt but the place is strong the cause good and the defence iust and honest so as none I hope will doe other then pitty her and seeke to redresse her wrongs this hath continued eight moneths and now the King hath sent directly to her to yeeld her selfe into his hands to be bestowed on the feirce Montaltanus or to bee forsaken for euer of him and disinherited This message was heauily receiued by the poore Princesse yet she resolued to dye disinherited and be the poorest in estate rather then the vnhappiest by marryage wherefore after an humble answer and dutifull refusall of yeelding to be wife to Montaltanus she demanded one request of her father which was to let it bee lawfull for her to send forth in search of some Knight who would defend her quarrell against him whom if he ouercame she should be yeeded vnto his Maiestie if her Knight got the victory then she should be free and inherit what she was borne vnto and this to be performed in two months and peace in the interim These things were agreed on and granted with much vaine-glory on the assured Champions side then did the Lady send foure Damsells abroad of which number I am one three are returned without finding any and now are but three dayes left of the perfixed time the Nobleman hath also his
the next night againe and all were well pleased and sigh'd no more but for parting which soone hapned for what happy estate in loue hath any abiding As the first night seem'd bright and delicate this alasse had all the clowds of dislike vpon it That gaue not their hearts so much pleasure as this did dolorous complaints That had not sweete disguise in it to giue testimony of loue but this had open shew of blackest and grieuousest sorrow They embraced not with such greedines as now with terror of neuer meeting more They met not the sharpe edges of desire with more delight then now with affectionated torment and these alasse were their fortunes and this their sufferings Dorileus yet bare it like such a louer as he was not more louing then he needs must nor caring more then would please himselfe nor greuing in all his life so much or little as might hurt him yet as one of that number he sigh'd and said he wished to stay still there but his there was euery where if he found handsome women and kind entertainment he remooued not but to such like pastures so as he but as one might say dined and supped at seuerall places but lay still at his owne home of change a pleasant bed no question where seuerall delights embraced and lulled his wanton appetite in the soft Cradle or armes of variety his friend was so much more troubled then he by that he vsed to doe all things seriously loue seriously grieue as seriously and change as often and seriously earnest in that he was doing and no more constant then others and in his inconstancy none so serious At his parting disguises after the first night layd aside he presented his Lady with a Sonnet of his owne hee said but the truth is his friend made it for him and so was his Secretary iustly She liked it and admired it after his going singing it continually to please her selfe it was thus THat which to some their wishes ends present Is counted day which former crosses mend Yet night-like day my blessings do preuent And brings that losse whereto my mischeifs tend By dayes approach alasse that light doth end Which is the only light of my content And more I see day striue her light to lend The darker am I by sad parting rent Like one long kept in prison brought to light But for his end condemned nere to bee Freed from his Dungeon till that wretched hee Conclude his liuing with his latest sight So now with griefe doth day appeare to mee And Oh! too early since we parting see This she sange and euen ware it out of breath with singing kis'd the originall Coppy because in his owne hand and neuer thought it neere enough nor euer deerer was a paper to a Louer great pitty it was not his owne worke but as it was it was liker a Louers present counterfeite as his vowes protestatiōs yet true beguilers of welbeleeuing womē who were happier to be Hereticks then such beleeuers Thus wit and well followed courting gained his desires who with his friend hauing taken leaue of the Lord and all the house trauelled their way on in their search till one day in a small valley betweene two little Hills they met an old man and and a young Damsell as she seem'd together he ryding on a Mule she on a fine Palfrey but so fine her Beast was and so disloyall his Mule to their hast as they both tyred and went no faster then as he beate one and the other for feare of that example a curious at least profitable obseruation nodded on so as with the most melancholly but discreet pace that Creatures not rasionall could vse they came like one against the wind towards these Princes who beholding them were pleased yet troubled like courteous Knights for their ill haps were purposed to demand of them when they met the cause of their mischances but in the meane time he might heare them sing though like Swanns before their ends for so was this end of their iourney or ther horses ends being they could goe no farther the manner of their Song was as odde as their aduenture singing Dialogue-wise as if agreed yet contrary to the ones wishes the Woman began at lest to their hearings thus Wo. FOnd aged man why doe you on me gaze Knowing my answer resolution take Follow not fondly in an vnusd Maze As if impossibilities to shake For know I hate you still and your poore loue Can mee as soone as Rocks to pitie moue Man Alas my dearest soule too long I knew I lou'd in vaine your scorne I felt likewise Your hate I saw yet must I still pursue Your fairest sight though you doe me despise For loue is blind and though I aged be I can nor part from it nor it from me Wo. What blame dost thou deserue if thou wilt still Follow my hate who will not breath to change And striue to gaine as if from scorne or ill Louing disdaine as Iuels rich and strang Or canst thou vainely hope thy wailing cries Can moue a pitty no let this suffice Man Piti◠alas I nere could looke to see So much good hap yet Deere be not to cruell Though you thus young hate aged loue in me My loue hath youth or you shall see loues fuell Deseruing your reward then not denie Let me now see those eyes kind or I die Wo. These eyes of mine thou neuer shalt behold If clouds of true disdaine may dim desire They shall as blacke be as thy faults are bold Demanding what 's vnfit a poore old fire Wasted like Triumphs sparcles onely liue And troubled rise from embers which outliue Man I doe confesse a boldnesse t is in me Ought to resist if your sweet selfe command Yet blind me needs you must for if I see Mine eyes must rest on you and gazing stand Heauen not forbids the bacest worme her way Hide that deare beauty I must needs decay Wo. My beauty I will hide mine eyes put out Rather then be perplexed with thy sight A mischiefe certaine worse is then a doubt Such is thy sight thy absence my delight Yet mine the ill since now with thee I stay Tyred with all misfortune cannot stray Man Thy beautie hide O no still cruell liue To me most haplesse dim not that bright light Which to this Earth all lights and beauties giue Let me not cause for euer darkest night No no blessed be those eyes and fairest face Lights of my soule and guides to all true grace My sweet commanderesse shall I yet obay And leaue you here alas vnguarded shall I not then for sorrow euer stray From quiet peace or hope and with curst thrall Sit downe and end yet if you say I must Here will I bide in banishment accurst While you passe on as cruell happy still That none else triumph may vpon mine ill When they had concluded she fell into an extreame laughter saying we haue indeed neede to neglect and
a Lady whom I met sigh'd the Florentine and who hath tyed me as fast as you are in the bonds of Loue but not of slauery for you are a little to far gone but Leurenius here is good newes the Emperor is found and we must straight repaire vnto him Celina to be thus causlesly cruell alas but is the Emperour found and you vtterly lost cryd his friend I feare feare not deare friend said he she will not yeeld her heart made of these Rocks cannot be pierced her soule hath no compassion nor will heare more to pitty then fire will by sâ—pplication when it is ruining the rarest buildings then feare not I shall goe with you but said the Florentine you are much alter'd in your speech your discourse differs nor is so certaine All is in mee vncertaine but my loue that is fixt cry'd hee I am Loue I loue and will loue His friend bâ—held him with infinite griefe cursing the accident that parted them on the ground hee cast himselfe a banke by chance being there greene and cleane rouled on it wept and groueling on the ground wiped his face againe with it thus thus cryed hee would I haue done at Court cursing the order that held me from it my heart swelled with bearing my paines and all the honours done me were but corsiues to my soule shee she Celina hauing banished me Leaue these vain passions said his friend I must leaue my selfe first cryed he I loue deare friend and if you could loue so you would not wonder at mee but enuy my happinesse in being such an one Such an one cryed hee God forbid I loue and this Countrey I may thanke for it also this charming Countrey for no better shee is fil'd with inchaunting beauties fram'd to tye and ruine men reuile not this blessed Realme the flower of peace beauty honour vertue happinesse and most of Shepheardesses I loue this Countrey and I loue did not the valiant Hercules loue Yes said the other and spin almost as wise a web as you goe about to doe certainly deare friend I shall in my extremity gaine helpe by seeing your affliction but man what thinke you of the Emperour God blesse him said Leurenius and make Celina knde els I dye His companion was discreet and louing so he vrg'd him no further but made the Squire tell the story of the Emperour as his Master the Duke of Burgundy had related it to him and commanded him to deliuer it to the Princes and as hee found any of them to send them still home When that vnfortunate hunting was past wherein Amphilanthus was lost the Queene distrest and all the Princes scatter'd the Emperour hauing got his armes followed in search of Pamphilia who was as he by a villaine was inform'd stollen away by Theeues in the wood hotly pursuing the quest rage and reuenge boyling in his brest hee hapned on a strange place for thicknesse and obscurenesse yet the vndaunted and louing Prince proceeded till he found a Crowne of stones of infinite and huge bignesse weary with trauell he allighted and thinking to rest tyde his horse to one of those stones no sooner was it done but a terrible fierce and mighty boare issued out of the wood running mainly at Amphilanthus but he thinking to shun the encounter and take aduantage of the Beast in his passing the Horse vnruly at the sight of him did his best likewise striking at him but missing him the Boare with his tuske strake the Horse into the body so he died The Emperour troubled as well for the loue hee bore the horse as for his want and danger hee remain'd in with this cruell beast watch'd opportuniâ—y with vow of reuenge and so as the Boare ran at him hee step'd aside and nimbly skipping in againe thrust him to the heart before he could turne This was no sooner done but many men arm'd set vpon him he valiantly like himselfe defended his honour and life one young man vnarm'd but aboue all most harming him and pressing more then the rest vpon him he slew the rest all at the instant vanish'd and with a blow giuen that was on the head which cut him to the eyes a voyce cryed Farewell Amphilanthus the voyce he knew and presently in stead of that young man hee saw to his thinking Pamphilia slaine and by his hand hee threw himselfe on the ground striuing to helpe her but shee was carried into a stone which lay in the middest of the Crowne by whom hee could not see but how did he labour to hold her backe or keepe her with him who liuing neuer sought but to be with him nor now left him deceipt onely abusing him by this inchauntment intreat pull all would not serue stronger powers had hâ—r as hee beleeued and made her inocently offend and part from him shee intirely and loyally louâ—d and from whom she neuer slid into the stone shee was carried vp hee then rose with his sword striking at the stone as to hew it asunder and take her out but his sword stuck therein wilt thou leaue mee too said he then his armour he pul'd off which with the blowes those inchanted men strake was much hacked and blood thrown of purpose as if shed by him vpon it when hee was vnarm'd he laid the pieces on the stone vowing that should be his monument being the richest her heart inclosing him and there would he dye a Ring of iron hee then saw which pulling hard opened the stone there did hee perceiue perfectly within it Pamphilia dead lying within an arch her breast open and in it his name made in little flames burning like pretty lamps which made the letters as if set round with diamonds and so cleare it was as hee distinctly saw the letters ingrauen at the bottome in Characters of bloud he ran to take her vp try how to vncharme her but he was instantly throwne out of the Caue in a trance and being come againe to himselfe resoluing to dye or to release her since he found her loyalty he saw these words onely written in place of the entrance This no wonder 's of much waight 'T is the hell of deepe deceit Admiring it and the words he was called to for helpe by Musalina her hee saw she must be followed Pamphilia is forgotten and now may lie and burne in the Caue Lucenia must bee rescued also her hee saw madly carried by a sauage man he ran towards the place hee saw them goe into as he thought then were they there rudely handled and they carried seuerall wayes all that night in the wood he lay three passions distract him tyred with running and laded with griefe in sleepe Lucenia wan him all passions now but how to recouer her hauing abandoned him three dayes hee did wander thus till at the end of them towards night hee came vnto the Sea there hee saw a sauage man take her vp in his armes and throw her into a Boate leaping himselfe after and when she
you for blisse hope still and still enioy Let sad misfortune haplesse me destroy Leaue crosses to rule me and still rule free While all delights their contraries imploy To keepe good backe and I but torments see Ioyes are berâ—au'd me harmes doe only tarry Despaire takes place disdaine hath got the hand Yet firme loue holds my senses in such band As since despised I with sorrow marry Then if with griefe I now must coupled bee Sorrow I le wed Despaire thus gouernes mee 10. THe weary Traueller who tyred sought In places distant farre yet found no end Of paine or labour nor his state to mend At last with ioy is to his home backe brought Findes not more ease though he with ioy be fraught When past his feare content like soules ascend Then I on whom new pleasures doe descend Which now as high as first-borne blisse is wrought He tyred with his paines I with my minde He all content receiues by ease of lymbs I greatest happinesse that I doe finde Beliefe for faith while hope in pleasure swimmes Truth saith 't was wrong conceit bred my despight Which once acknowledg'd brings my hearts delight 11. YOu endlesse torments that my rest oppresse How long will you delight in my sad paine Will neuer Loue your fauour more expresse Shall I still liue and euer feele disdaine Alasse now stay and let my griefe optaine Some end feede not my heart with sharpe distresse Let me once see my cruell fortunes gaine At least release and long-felt woes redresse Let not the blame of cruelty disgrace The honour'd title of your god-head Loue Giue not iust cause for me so say a place Is found for rage alone on me to moue O quickly end and doe not long debate My needfull ayd lest helpe doe come too late 12. CLoy'd with the torments of a tedious night I wish for day which come I hope for ioy When crosse I finde new tortures to destroy My woe-kild heart first hurt by mischiefes might Then crye for night and once more day takes flight And brightnesse gone what rest should heere inioy Vsurped is Hate will her force imploy Night cannot Griefe intombe though blacke as spite My thoughts are sad her face as sad doth seeme My paines are long her howers tedious are My griefe is great and endlesse is my care Her face her force and all of woes esteeme Then welcome Night and farewell flattering day Which all hopes breed and yet our ioyes delay Song 2. ALl Night I weepe all Day I cry Ay me I still doe wish though yet deny ay me I sigh I mourne I say that still I only am the store for ill ay me In coldest hopes I freezâ— yet burne ay me From flames I striue to flye yet turne ay me From griefe I hast but sorrowes hye And on my heart all woes doe lye ay me From contraries I seeke to run ay me But contraries I cannot shun ay me For they delight their force to trye And to Despaire my thoughts doe tye ay me Whither alasse then shall I goe ay me When as Despaire all hopes outgoe ay me If to the Forrest Cupid hies And my poore soule to his law tyes ay me To the Court O no he cryes fye ay me There no true loue you shall espye ay me Leaue that place to falsest Louers Your true loue all truth discouers ay me Then quiet rest and no more proue ay me All places are alike to Loue ay me And constant be in this begun Yet say till Life with Loue be done Ay me 13. DEare famish nor what you your selfe gaue foode Destroy not what your glory is to saue Kill not that soule to which you spirit gaue In pitty not disdaine your triumph stood An easie thing it is to shed the bloud Of one who at your will yeelds to the graue But more you may true worth by mercy craue When you preserue not spoyle but nourish good Your sight is all the food I doe desire Then sacrifice me not in hidden fire Or stop the breath which did your praises moue Thinke but how easie 't is a sight to giue Nay euen desert since by it I doe liue I but Camelion-like would liue and loue 14. Am I thus conquer'd haue I lost the powers That to withstand which ioyes to ruine me Must I bee still while it my strength deuoures And captiue leads me prisoner bound vnfree Loue first shall leane mens fant'sies to them free Desire shall quench loues flames Spring hate sweet showres Loue shall loose all his Darts haue sight and see His shame and wishings hinder happy houres Why should we not Loues purblinde charmes resist Must we be seruile doing what he list No seeke some host to harbour thee I flye Thy Babish tricks and freedome doe professe But O my hurt makes my lost heart confesse I loue and must so farewell liberty 15. TRuely poore night thou welcome art to me I loue thee better in this sad attire Then that which rayseth some mens fant'sies higher Like painted outsides which foule inward be I loue thy graue and saddest lookes to see Which seemes my soule and dying heart entire Like to the ashes of some happy fire That flam'd in ioy but quench'd in misery I loue thy count'nance and thy sober pace Which euenly goes and as of louing grace To vs and mee among the rest opprest Giues quiet peace to my poore selfe alone And freely grants day leaue when thou art gone To giue cleare light to see all ill redrest 16. SLeepe fye possesse me not nor doe not fright me with thy heauy and thy deathlike might For counterfetting's vilder then death's sight And such deluding more my thoughts doe spight Thou suffer'st falsest shapes my soule t' affright Sometimes in likenesse of of a hopefull spright And oft times like my Loue as in despight Ioying thou canst with malice kill delight When I a poore foole made by thee thinke ioy Doth flow when thy fond shadowes doe destroy My that while sencelesse selfe left free to thee But now doe well let me for euer sleepe And so for euer that deere Image keepe Or still wake that my senses may be free 17. SWeet shades why doe you seeke to giue delight To me who deeme delight in this vilde place But torment sorrow and mine owne disgrace To taste of ioy or your vaine pleasing sight Shew them your pleasures who saw neuer night Of griefe where ioyings fawning smiling face Appeares as day where griefe found neuer space Yet for a sigh a groane or enuies spite But O on me a world of woes doe lye Or els on me all harmes striue to relye And to attend like seruants bound to me Heate in desire while frosts of care I proue Wanting my loue yet surfet doe with loue Burne and yet freeze better in Hell to be 18. WHich should I better like of day or night Since all the day I liue in bitter woe Inioying light more cleere my wrongs to know and yet
most sad feeling in it all spite In night when darknesse doth forbid all light Yet see I griefe apparant to the show Follow'd by iealousie whose fond tricks flow And on vnconstant waues of doubt alight I can behold rage cowardly to feede Vpon foule error which these humors breede Shame doubt and feare yet boldly will thinke ill All those in both I feele then which is best Darke to ioy by day light in night opprest Leaue both and end these but each other spill Song 3. STay my thoughts doe not aspire To vaine hopes of high desire See you not all meanes bereft To inioy no ioy is left Yet still me thinkes my thoughts doe say Some hopes doe liue amid dismay Hope then once more Hope for ioy Bury feare which ioyes destroy Thought hath yet some comfort giuen Which despaire hath from vs driuen Therefore deerely my thoughts cherish Neuer let such thinking perish 'T is an idle thing to plaine Odder farre to dye for paine Thinke and see how thoughts doe rise Winning where there no hope lies Which alone is louers treasure For by thoughts we loue doe measure Then kinde thought my fant'sie guide Let me neuer haplesse slide Still maintaine thy force in me Let me thinking still be free Nor leaue thy might vntill my death But let me thinking yeeld vp breath 19. COme darkest Night becomming sorrow best Light leaue thy light fit for a lightsome soule Darknesse doth truely sute with me opprest Whom absence power doth from mirth controule The very trees with hanging heads condole Sweet Summers parting and of leaues distrest In dying colours make a grief-full role So much alas to sorrow are they prest Thus of dead leaues her farewell carpets made Their fall their branches all their mournings proue With leauelesse naked bodies whose hues vade From hopefull greene to wither in their loue If trees and leaues for absence mourners be No maruell that I grieue who like want see 20. THe Sunne which glads the earth at his bright sight When in the morne he showes his golden face And takes the place from tedious drowsie Night Making the world still happy in his grace Shewes happinesse remaines not in one place Nor may the Heauens alone to vs giue light But hide that cheerefull face though no long space Yet long enough for tryall of their might But neuer Sun-set could be so obscure No Desart euer had a shade so sad Nor could black darknesse euer proue so bad As paines which absence makes me now indure The missing of the Sunne a while makes Night But absence of my ioy sees neuer light 21. WHen last I saw thee I did not thee see It was thine Image which in my thoughts lay So liuely figur'd as no times delay Could suffer me in heart to parted be And sleepe so fauourable is to me As not to let thy lou'd remembrance stray Lest that I waking might haue cause to say There was one mnute found to forget thee Then since my faith is such so kinde my sleepe That gladly thee presents into my thought And still true Louer-like thy face doth keepe So as some pleasure shadow-like is wrought Pitty my louing nay of conscience giue Reward to me in whom thy selfe doth liue 22. LIke to the Indians scorched with the Sunne The Sunne which they doe as their God adore So am I vs'd by Loue for euermore I worship him lesse fauours haue I wonne Better are they who thus to blacknesse run And so can onely whitenesse want deplore Theu I who pale and white am with griefes store Nor can haue hope but to see hopes vndone Besides their sacrifice receiu'd in sight Of their chose Saint mine hid as worthlesse rite Grant me to see where I my offerings giue Then let me weare the marke of Cupids might In heart as they in skin of Phoebus light Not ceasing offerings to Loue while I liue 23. WHen euery one to pleasing pastime hies Some hunt fome hauke some play while some delight In sweet discourse and musicke shewes ioyes might Yet I my thoughts doe farre aboue these prize The ioy which I take is that free from eyes I sit and wonder at this day-like night So to dispose themselues as void of right And leaue true pleasure for poore vanities When others hunt my thoughts I haue in chase If hauke my minde at wished end doth flye Discourse I with my spirit talke and cry While others musicke choose as greatest grace O God say I can these fond pleasures moue Or musicke bee but in sweet thoughts of Loue 24. ONce did I heare an aged father say Vnto his sonne who with attention heares What Age and wise experience euer cleares From doubts of feare or reason to betray My sonne said hee behold thy father gray I once had as thou hast fresh tender yeares And like thee sported destitute of feares But my young faults made me too soone decay Loue once I did and like thee fear'd my Loue Led by the hatefull threed of Iealousie Striuing to keepe I lost my liberty And gain'd my griefe which still my sorrowes moue In time shun this to loue is no offence But doubt in Youth in Age breeds penitence Song 4. SWeetest Loue returne againe Make not too long stay Killing mirth and forcing paine Sorrow leading way Let vs not thus parted be Loue and absence nere agree But since you must needs depart And me haplesse leaue In your iourney take my heart Which will not deceiue Yours it is to you it flies Ioying in those loued eyes So in part we shall not part Though we absent be Tyme nor place nor greatest smart Shall my bands make free Tyed I am yet thinke it gaine In such knots I feele no paine But can I liue hauing lost Chiefest part of me Heart is fled and sight is crost These my fortunes be Yet deare heart goe soone returne As good there as heere to burne 25. POore eyes bee blinde the light behold no more Since that is gone which is your deare delight Rauish'd from you by greater power and might Making your losse a gaine to others store Oreflow and drowne till sight to you restore That blessed Starre and as in hatefull spight Send forth your teares in flouds to kill all sight And lookes that lost wherein you ioy'd before Bury thâ—se beames which in some kindled fires And conquer'd haue their loue-burnt hearts desires Losing and yet no gaine by you esteem'd Till that bright Starre doe once againe appeare Brighter then Mars when hee doth shine most cleare See not then by his might be you redeem'd 26. DEare cherish this and with it my soules will Nor for it ran away doe it abuse Alas it left poore me your brest to choose As the best shrine where it would harbour still Then fauour shew and not vnkindly kill The heart which fled to you but doe excuse That which for better did the worse refuse And pleas'd I le be though heartlesse my life spill But if you
will bee kinde and iust indeed Send me your heart which in mine 's place shall feede On faithfull loue to your deuotion bound There shall it see the sacrifices made Of pure and spotlesse Loue which shall not vade While soule and body are together found 27. FIe tedious Hope why doe you still rebell Is it not yet enough you flatter'd me But cunningly you seeke to vse a Spell How to betray must these your Trophees bee I look'd from you farre sweeter fruite to see But blasted were your blossomes when they fell And those delights expected from hanâ—s free Wither'd and dead and what seemd blisse proues hell No Towne was won by a more plotted slight Then I by you who may my fortune write In embers of that fire which ruin'd me Thus Hope your falshood calls you to be tryde You 'r loth I see the tryall to abide Proue true at last and gaine your liberty 28. GRiefe killing griefe haue not my torments beene Already great and strong enough but still Thou dost increase nay glory in mine il And woes new past a fresh new woes begin Am I the onely purchase thou canst win Was I ordain'd to giue despaire her fill Or fittest I should mount misfortunes hill Who in the plaine of ioy cannot liue in If it be so Griefe come as welcome guest Since I must suffer for anothers rest Yet this good Griefe let me intreat of thee Vse still thy force but not from those I loue Let me all paines and lasting torments proue So I misse these lay all thy waights on me 29. FLye hence O Ioy no longer heere abide Too great thy pleasures are for my despaire To looke on losses now must proue my fare Who not long since on better foode relide But foole how oft had I Heau'ns changing spi'de Before of mine owne fate I could haue care Yet now past time I can too late beware When nothings left but sorrowes faster ty'de While I enioyd that Sunne whose sight did lend Me ioy I thought that day could haue no end But soone a night came cloath'd in absence darke Absence more sad more bitter then is gall Or death when on true Louers it doth fall Whose fires of loue disdaine reasts poorer sparke 30. YOu blessed shades which giue me silent rest Witnes but this when death hath clos'd mine eyes And separated me from earthly tyes Being from hence to higher place adrest How oft in you I haue laine heere opprest And haue my miseries in wofull cryes Deliuer'd forth mounting vp to the Skyes Yet helplesse backe return'd to wound my brest Which wounds did but striue how to breed more harm To me who can be cur'd by no one charme But that of Loue which yet may me releeue If not let Death my former paines redeeme My trusty friends my faith vntouch'd esteeme And witnesâ—e I could loue who so could grieue Song 5. TIme onely cause of my vnrest By whom I hop'd once to be blest How cruell art thou turn'd That first gaâ—'st life vnto my loue And still a pleasure not to moue Or change though euer burn'd Haue I thee slack'd or left vndone One louing rite and so haue wonne Thy rage or bitter changing That now no minutes I shall see Wherein I may least happy be Thy fauours so estranging Blame thy selfe and not my folly Time gaue time but to be holy True Loue such ends best loueth Vnworthy Loue doth seeke for ends A worthy Loue but worth pretends Nor other thoughts it proueth Then stay thy swiftnes cruell Time And let me once more blessed clime to ioy that I may praise thee Let me pleasure sweetly tasting Ioy in Loue and faith not wasting and on Fames wings I le raise thee Neuer shall thy glory dying Bee vntill thine owne vâ—tying that Tyme no longer liueth 'T is a gaine such time to lend Since so thy fame shall neuer end But ioy for what she giueth 31. AFter long trouble in a tedious way Of Loues vnrest laid downe to ease my paine Hoping for rest new torments I did gaine Possessing me as if I ought t' obey When Fortune came though blinded yet did stay And in her blessed armes did me inchaine I cold with griefe thought no warmth to obtaine Or to dissolue that yce of ioyes decay Till rise said she Reward to thee doth send By me the seruant of true Louers ioy Bannish all clouds of doubt all feares destroy And now on Fortune and on Loue depend I her obey'd and rising felt that Loue Indeed was best when I did least it moue 32. HOw fast thou fliest O Time on Loues swift wings To hopes of ioy that flatters our desire Which to a Louer still contentment brings Yet when we should inioy thou dost retire Thou stay'st thy pace false Time from our desire When to our ill thou hast'st with Eagles wings Slow only to make vs see thy retire Was for Despaire and harme which sorrow brings O slake thy pace and milder passe to Loue Be like the Bee whose wings she doth but vse To bring home profit masters good to proue Laden and weary yet againe pursues So lade thy selfe with hony of sweet ioy And do not me the Hiue of Loue destroy 33. HOw many eyes poore Loue hast thou to guard Thee from thy most desired wish and end Is it because some say th' art blinde that barr'd From sight thou should'st no happinesâ—e attend Who blame thee so small Iustice can pretend Since 'twixt thee and the Sunne no question hard Can be his sight but outward thou can'st bend The heart and guide it freely thus vnbar'd Art thou while we both blinde and bold oft dare Accuse thee of the harmes our seluâ—s should finde Who led with folly and by rashnesse blinde Thy sacred power doe with a child's compare Yâ—t Loue this boldnesse pardon for admire Thee sure we must or be borne without fire 34. TAke heed mine eyes how you your looks doe cast Lest they betray my hearts most secret thought Be true vnto your selues for nothing's bought More deare then Doubt which brings a Louers fast Catch you alwatching eyes ere they be past Or take yours fix't where your best Loue hath sought The pride of your desires let them be taught Their faults for shame they could no truer last Then looke and looke with ioy for conquest won Of those that search'd your hurt in double kinde So you kept safe let them themselues looke blinde Watch gaze and marke till they to madnesse run While you mine eyes enioy full sight of Loue Contented that such happinesses moue 35. FAlse Hope which feeds but to destroy and spill What it first breeds vnnaturall to the blrth Of thine owne wombe conceiuing but to kill And plenty giues to make the greater dearth So Tyrants doe who falsly ruling Earth Outwardly grace them and with profits fill Aduance those who appointed are to death To make their greater fall to please their will Thus shadow they their wicked vile intent Colouring
honest mindes is wrought But now I finde thy flattery and skill Which idely made me to obserue thy will Thus is my learning by my bondage bought 8. POore Loue in chaines and fetters like a thiefe I met ledd forth as chast Diana's gaine Vowing the vntaught Lad should no reliefe From her receiue who gloried in fond paine She call'd him thiefe with vowes he did mainetaine He neuer stole but some sadd slight of griefe Had giuen to those who did his power disdaine In which reuenge his honour was the chiefe Shee said he murther'd and therefore must dye He that he caus'd but Loue did harmes deny But while she thus discoursing with him stood The Nymphes vnti'de him and his chaines tooke off Thinking him safe but he loose made a scoffe Smiling and scorning them slew to the wood 9. PRay doe not vse these wordes I must be gone Alasâ—e doe not foretell mine ills to come Let not my care be to my ioyes a Tombe But rather finde my losse with losse alone Cause me not thus a more distressed one Not feeling blisse because of this sad doome Of present crosse for thinking will orecome And loose all pleasure since griefe breedeth none Let the misfortune come at once to me Nor suffer me with griefe to punish'd be Let mee be ignorant of mine owne illâ— Then now with the fore-knowledge quite to lose That which with so much care and paines Loue chose For his reward but ioy now then mirth kill 10. FOlly would needs make mee a Louer be When I did little thinke of louing thought Or euer to be tyde while shee told me That none can liue but to these bands are brought I ignorant did grant and so was bought And sold againe to Louers slauery The duty to that vanity once taught Such band is as wee will not seeke to free Yet when I well did vnderstand his might How he inflam'd and forcâ—d one to affect I loud and smarted counting it delight So still to waste which Reason did â—eiect When Loue came blind-fold and did challenge me Indeed I lou'd but wanton Boy not hee Song THe Spring time of my first louing Finds yet no winter of remouing Nor frosts to make my hopes decrease But with the Summer still increase The trees may teach vs Loue 's remaining Who suffer change with little paining Though Winter make their leaues decrease Yet with the Summer they increase As birds by silence shew their mourning in cold yet sing at Springs returning So may Loue nipt a while decrease but as the Summer soone increase Those that doe loue but for a season Doe falsifie both Loue and Reason For Reason wills if Loue decrease It like the Summer should increase Though Loue sometimes may be mistaken the truth yet ought not to be shaken Or though the heate a while decrease It with the Summer may increase And since the Spring time of my louing Found neuer Winter of remouing Nor frosts to make my hopes decrease Shall as the Summer still increase Song LOue a childe is euer crying Please him and he strait is flying Giue him he the more is crauing Neuer satisfi'd with hauing His desires haue no measure Endlesse folly is his treasure What he promiseth he breaketh Trust not one word that he speaketh Hee vowes nothing but false matter And to cousen you hee 'l flatter Let him gain the hand hee 'l leaue you And still glory to deceiue you Hee will triumph in your wailing And yet cause be of your failing These his vertues are and slighter Are his guifts his fauours lighter Fathers are as firme in staying Wolues no fiercer in their praying As a childe then leaue him crying Nor seeke him so giu'n to flying BEing past the paines of Loue Freedome gladly seekes to moue Sayes that Loues delights were pretty But to dwell in them t were pitty And yet truly sayes that Loue Must of force in all hearts moue But though his delights are pretty To dwell on them were a pitty Let Loue slightly passe like Loue Neuer let it too deepe moue For thoâ—gh Loues delights are pretty To dwell in them were great pitty Loue no pitty hath of Loue Rather griefes then pleasures moue So though his delights are pretty To dwell in them would be pitty Those that like the smart of Loue In them let it freely moue Els though his delights are pretty Doe not dwell in them for pitty O Pardon Cupid I confesse my fault Then mercy grant me in so iust a kinde For treason neuer lodged in my minde Against thy might so much as in a thought And now my folly â— haue dearely bought Nor could my soule least rest of quiet finde Since Rashnes did my thoughts to Error binde Which now thy fury and my harme hath wrought I curse that thought and hand which that first fram'd For which by thee I am most iustly blam'd But now that hand shall guided be aright And giue a Crowne vnto thyâ—endlesse praise Which shall thy glory and thy greatnesse raise More then these poore things could thy honor spight A Crowne of Sonnets dedicated to LOVE IN this strange Labyrinth how shall I turne Wayes are on all sides while the way I misse If to the right hand there in loue I burne Let mee goe forward therein danger is If to the left suspition hinders blisse Let mee turne backe shame cryes I ought returne Nor faint though crosses which my fortunes kisse Stand still is harder although sure to mourne Thus let mee take the right or left hand way Goe forward or stand still or back retire I must these doubts indure without allay Or helpe but trauell finde for my best hire Yet that which most my troubled sense doth moue Is to leaue all and take the threed of Loue. 2. IS to leaue all and take the threed of Loue Which line straight leades vnto the soules content Where choice delights with pleasures wings do moue And idle fant'sie neuer roome had lent When chaste thoughts guide vs then our minds are bent To take that good which ills from vs remoue Light of true loue brings fruite which none repent But constant Louers seeke and wish to proue Loue is the shining Starre of blessings light The feruent fire of zeale the root of peace The lasting Lampe fed with the oyle of right Image of Faith and wombe for ioyes increase Loue is true Vertue and his ends delight His flames are ioyes his bands true Louers might 3. HIs flames are ioyes his bandes true Louers might No staine is there but pure as purest white Where no cloud can appeare to dimme his light Nor spot defile but shame will soon requite Heere are affections tryde by Loues iust might As Gold by fire and black discern'd by white Error by truth and darknes knowne by light Where Faith is vallu'd for Loue to requite Please him and serue him glory in his might And firme hee 'le be as Innocency white Cleere as th' ayre warme as Sun's beames
must be Curst Iealousie doth all her forces bend To my vndoing thus my harmes I see So though in Loue I feruently doe burne In this strange Labyrinth how shall I turne Song I. SWeet let me enioy thy sight More cleare more bright then morning Sun Which in Spring-time giues delight And by which Summers pride is wun Present sight doth pleasures moue Which in sad absence we must misse But when met againe in loue Then twice redoubled is our blisse Yet this comfort absence giues And only faithfull louing tries That though parted Loues force liues As iust in heart as in our eyes But such comfort banish quite Farre sweeter is it still to finde Fauour in thy loued sight Which present smiles with ioyes combind Eyes of gladnesse lipps of Loue And hearts from passion not to turne But in sweet affections mooue In flames of Faith to liue and burne Deareâ—t then this kindnesse giue And grant me life which is your sight Wherein I more blessed liue Then graced with the Sunnes faire light 2. SWeet Siluia in a shady wood With her faire Nimphs layd downe Saw not farre off where Cupid stood The Monarch of Loues Crowne All naked playing with his wings Within a Mirtle Tree Which sight a sudden laughter brings His Godhead so to see An fondly they began to iest With scoffing and delight Not knowing he did breed vnrest And that his will 's his right When he perceiuing of their scorne Grew in such desperate rage Who but for honour first was borne Could not his rage asswage Till shooting of his murth'ring dart Which not long lighting was Knowing the next way to the heart Did through a poore Nymph passe This shot the others made to bow Besides all those to blame Who scorners be or not allow Of powerfull Cupids name Take heede then nor doe idly smile Nor Loues commands despise For soone wiâ—â— he your strength beguile Although he want his eyes 3 COme merry Spring delight vs For Winter long did spight vs In pleasure still perseuer Thy beauties ending neuer Spring and grow Lasting so With ioyes increasing euer Let cold from hence be banish'd Till hopes from me be vauish'd But blesse thy daynties growing In fulnesse freely flowing Sweet Birds sing For the Spring All mirth is now bestowing Philomel in this Arbour Makes now her louing Harbour Yet of her state complaining Her Notes in mildnesse strayning Which though sweet Yet doe meet Her former luckelesse paining 4. LOuers learne to speake but truth Sweare not aud your oathes forgoe Giue your age a constant youth Vow no more then what you 'le doe Thinke it sacriledge to breake What you promise shall in loue And in teares what you doe speake Forget not when the ends you proue Doe not thinke it glory is To entice and then deceiue Your chiefe honors lye in this By worth what wonne is not to leaue 'T is not for your fame to try What we weake not oft refuse In our bounty our faults lye When you to doe a fault will chuse Fye leaue this a greater gaine t is to keepe when you haue won Then what purchas'd is with paine Soone after in all scorne to shun For if worthlesse to be priz'd Why at first will you it moue And if worthy why dispis'd You cannot sweare and lie and loue Loue alasse you cannot like T is but for a fashion mou'd None can chase and then dislike Vnlesse it be by fashâ—â—d prou'd But your choyce is and your loue How most number to deceiue As if honors claime did moue Like Popish Law none safe to leaue Flye this folly and returne Vnto truth in Loue and try None but Martir's happy burne More shamefull ends they haue that lye 1. MY heart is lost what can I now expect An euening faire after a drowsie day Alas fond Phant'sie this is not the way To cure a mourning heart or salue neglectâ— They who should helpe doe me and helpe reiect Embracing loose desires and wanton play While wanton base delights doe beare the sway Aud impudency raignes without respect O Cupid let they Mother know her shame 'T is time for her to leaue this youthfull flame Which doth dishonor her is ages blame And takes away the greatnes of thy name Thou God of Loue she only Queene of lust Yet striues by weakning thee to be vniust 2. LAte in the Forrest I did Cupid see Cold wett and crying he had lost his way And being blinde was farther like to stray Which sight a kind compassion bred in me I kindly tooke and dry'd him while that he Poore Child complain'd he sterued was with stay And pin'd for want of his accustom'd prey For none in that wilde place his Host would be I glad was of his finding thinking sure This seruice should my freedome still procure And in my armes I tooke him then vnharm'd Carrying him safe vnto a Myrtle bowre But in the way he made me feele his powre Burning my heart who had him kindly warm'd 3. IVno still iealous of her husband Ioue Descended from aboue on earth to try Whether she there could find his chosen Loue Which made him from the Heau'ns so often flye Close by the place where I for shade did lye She chafing came but when shee saw me moue Haue you not seene this way said she to hye One in whom vertue neuer grownde did proue Hee in whom Loue doth breed to stirre more hate Courting a wanton Nimph for his delight His name is Iupiter my Lord by Fate Who for her leaues Me Heauen his Throne and light I saw him not said I although heere are Many in whose hearts Loue hath made like warre 4. WHen I beheld the Image of my deare With greedy lookes mine eies would that way bend Feare and Desire did inwardly contend Feare to be mark'd Desire to draw still neere And in my soule a Spirit would appeare Which boldnes warranted and did pretend To be my Genius yet I durst not lend My eyes in trust where others seem'd so cleare Then did I search from whence this danger rose If such vnworthynesse in me did rest As my staru'd eyes must not with sight be blest When Iealousie her poyson did disclose Yet in my heart vnseene of Iealous eye The truer Image shall in tryumph lye 5. LIke to huge Clowdes of smoake which well may hide The face of fairest day though for a while So wrong may shaddow me till truth doe smile And Iustice Sunne-like hath those vapours tyde O doating Time canst thou for shame let slid So many minutes while ills doe beguile Thy age and worth and falshoods thus defile Thy auncient good where now but crosses bide Looke but once vp and leaue thy toyling pace And on my miseries thy dimme eye place Goe not so fast but giue my care some ende Turne not thy glasse alas vnto my ill Since thou with sand it canst not so farre fill But to each one my sorrowes will extend 6. O That no day would euer more appeare But clowdy night to gouerne this sad place Nor light from Heauen these haples roomes to grace Since that light 's shadow'd which my Loue holds deare Let thickest mists in enuy master here And Sunne-borne day for malice show no face Disdaining light where Cupid and the race Of Loueâ—s are despisd and shame shines cleere Let me be darke since barr'd of my chiefe light And wounding Iealousie commands by might But Stage-play-like disguised pleasures giue To me it seemes as ancient fictions make The Starrs all fashiousâ— and all shapes partake While in my thoughts true forme of Loue shall liue 7. NO time no roome no thought or writing can Giue rest or quiet to my louing heart Or can my mâ—mory or Phant'sie scan The measure of my still renewing smart Yet whould I not deare Loue thou should'st depart But let my passions as they first began Rule wound and please it is thy choysest Art To giue disquiet which seemes ease to man When all alone I thinke vpon thy paine How thou dost trauell our best selues to gaine Then houerly thy lessons I doe learne Thinke on thy glory which shall still ascend Vntill the world come to a finall end And then shall we thy lasting powre dicerne 8. HOw Glowworme-like the Sun doth â—ow appeare Cold beames doe from his gloriouâ— face descend Which shewes his daies and force duw to an ende Or that to leaue taking his time growâ—s neere The day his face did seeme but pale tâ—ough cleare The reason is he to the North must end His light and warmth must to that Climat bend Whose frozen parts could not loues â—eat hold deare Alas if thou bright Sunne to part frâ—m hence Grieue so what must I haplesse wâ— from thence Where thou dost goe my blessing sall attend Thou shalt â—nioy that sight for whicâ— I dye And in my heart thy fortuues doe nuy Yet grieue I 'le loue thee for thistate may ' mend 9. MY Muse now happy lay thy sâ—fe to rest Sleepe in the quiet of a faitfull loue Write you no more but let theâ— Phant'sies mooue Some other hearts wake not to ew vnrest But if you Study be those thoughts adrest To truth which shall eternall goodnes prooue Enioying of true ioy the most and best The endles gaine which neuer will remoue Leaue the discourse of Venus and her sonne To young beginners and their braines inspire With storyes of great Loue and from that fire Get heat to write the fortunes they haue wonne And thus leaue off what 's past shewes you can loue Now let your Constancy your Honor proue FINIS
her amazed and afflicted with hate disdaine scorne and all other shee accused him of till shame ouercame and forst her to returne to a good old man her father whose mild and good example brought her to follow the counsell of Parselius who held on his iourney taking ship for Italy he landed in the kingdome of Naples those very parts making him remember that which too well still continued in his mind which was the sweet and delicate Iland wherein he found the sweetest and delicatest of Shepherdesses the thought of whom brought forth these words his heart bleeding as fast as before his eyes had shed sad drops O sweet Iland cride he and yet desolate Pantalarea how doe our afflictions suit as one and so our destinies Vrania hath left thee and thou mourn'st Vrania hath left mee and I pine Deerest Vrania deere vnto me still why wouldst thou for nouelties leaue thy faithfull Parselius why wouldst thou not be as well then aduised as till that time be gouernd by my counsell Yet foole most blame thy selfe for why didst thou permit-her dainty lips to touch that charmed Brooke nay still adde vnto thy folly why wouldest thou drinke so haâ—tily thy selfe and so haue no meanes left to helpe or saue Accursed Spring from whence did run the ruine of my blisse Bewitching streame to charme me to the losse of my soules ioyes spitefullest of the gods or goddesses was it for reuenge because wee would not trie your charmed house that yet their cruell triall should be made vpon vs Vnlucky tempest constraining vs to land on that much more vnlucky shore Leauing his ship he went a land commaunding his seruants to goe to the Court and if they came before him thither there to attend till his comming but secretly himselfe going along the sea-side his mind as vnrestingly running on Vrania as a hurt bird that neuer leaues flying till he falls downe no more did hee rest till death-like sleepe did force him to obay yet were his dreames oft of her his mind then working and presenting her vnto his imagination as in day his thoughts did to his heart so did the eyes of his louing soule euer behold her accusing himselfe for his folly fearing the power of the charmes whose wicked might might alter her assuring himselfe shee must be deceiu'd by them if euer she did change In this violent feauer of sorrow hee went on till he discern'd a man come from vnder the roâ—ks that proudly shewed their craggie faces wrinkling in the smiles of their ioy for being aboue the Sea which stroue by flowing to couer them but for all that ambition was forc'd to ebbe in penance for that high desire He came arm'd at all points leading in his hand as beautifull a Lady as Nature could frame and sorrow suffer to appeare so being such an one as both had vs'd their best art to frame and suffer to shew excellent had she bin free how much more rare must she then of necessity appeare who in misery shew'd so delicate The Morean Prince staid to behold beholding did admire the exquisitenes of that sad beautie but more theÌ„ that did the cruelty of the armed man seeme woÌ„derful for leading her to a pillar which stood on the sand a fit place that the sea might stil wash away the memorie of such inhumanity he tied her to it by the haire which was of great length and Sun-like brightnesse Then pulled hee off a mantle which she wore leauing her from the girdle vpwards al naked her soft daintie white hands hee fastened behind her with a cord about both wrists in manner of a crosse as testimony of her cruellest Martyrdome When shee was thus miserably bound to his vnmercifull liking with whipps hee was about to torment her but Parselius with this sight was quickly put out of his admiration hasting to reuenge her wrong setting spurres to his horse hee ran as swift as Lightning and as dangerous this happned to the Knight towards them yet sending his voyce with more speede before him crying vilde Traitor hold thy hands and turne thy spight on mee more fit to encounter stripes hoping thus to saue her from some which if but one had beene too much for such delicacie to endure But hee whose malice was such as the neerer hee saw her succour the more was his fury encreased looking vp and seeing a braue knight accompany that voice casting his hatefull looke againe on her and throwing away the Whips drew his Sword saying nor yet shall this newe Champion rescue thee then ready to haue parted that sweet breath from that most sweet body Parselius came and struck downe the blow with his Sword though not so directly but that it a little rased her on the left side which shee perceiuing looking on it and seeing how the bloud did trickle in some though few drops Many more then these said shee haue I inwardly shed for thee my deare Perissus but that last word she spake softlier then the rest either that the strange Knight should not heare her or that she could not affoord that deere name to any but her owne eares Shee being thus rescued the Knight strake fiercely at Parselius who met him with as much furious strength giuing him his due in the curstedst kind and fullest measure making such proofe of his valour iustice being on his side which best guides a good sword in a noble hand as in short time hee laid him at his feete pulling off his helme to cut off his head But then the Ladie cride vnto him beseeching him to stay that blow the like did another Knight newly arriu'd who vntide the Lady Whereat Parselius was offended thinking himselfe highly iniured that any except himselfe should doe her that seruice telling him Hee much wondred at his boldnesse which had made him offer that wrong vnto him I did it said the new Knight but to giue her ease and so to bring her that wee both might acknowledge humble thankfulnesse for this braue and happy reliefe which hath brought her blessed safetyâ— Parselius hearing this curteous answere was satisfied then looking on the vanquished Knight hee demaunded Why hee had vsed that cruelty to so perfect a Lady As he was answering the stranger Knight knew him casting his eye vpon him and without any word would as soone haue depriued him of his life but Parselius stayd him blaming him for seeking the death of a man already dying He confessing his fault askt pardon and pulling off his helme told him that there he stood ready to receiue punishment for twice so offending him Parselius though not knowing him yet seeing his excellent personage and princely countenance imbraced him telling him That honour might gaine nay challenge pardon for a greater fault then was possible to bee committed by such a braue Knight he likewise taking off his helme When Limena who was this sad tormented Lady saw her Perissus for Perissus it was the ioy she conceiu'd was iust such as her loue could
make her feele seeing him her soule had onely loued after so many cruell changes and bitter passions in their crost affection This being past the wounded Knight began thus First said hee let mee know by whose hand I haue receiued this worthie end and indeed too worthy for so worthlesse a Creature who now and but now could discerne my rash and wicked error which now I most heartilie repent Now are mine eyes open to the iniuries done to vertuous Limena her chastity appeares before my dying sight whereto before my eyes were dimme and eares deafe seeing and hearing nothing but base falshoods being gouern'd by so strong and vndeserued Iealousie Next I must aske pardon of you my Lord Perissus deny not these Petitions I humbly beseech you both vnto a dying man who in his life did offer you too foule and too vnpardonable an iniury Perissus seeing his speedy end approaching hauing the noblest and freest heart forgaue him that offence which proceeded from the same ground that his crosses came from both taking roote from Loue and yet Loue in that kinde chang'd nature with madnesse when attended on with so much iealousie then with a milde voice he spake Philargus said he I am glad your punishment is accompanied with so happy and true repentance I doe freely forgiue you and thinke no more of that past then if neuer done But this I desire you will demand the like of your excellently vertuous wife who hath beene the patient of all your fury That I doe said Philargus and let my soule enioy no happinesse if I wish not her as well as it Then deare Limena haue you pardon'd me if not O doe and forgiue vnfortunate and ill-deseruing Philargus My Lord said she I most sincerely and heartily forgiue you and so I pray doe you the like for me my dearest then said he I happily and thrise happily now shall welcome death For your other demand said the braue Prince my name is Parselius Prince of Morea Philargus kissing his hand gaue him thankes and weeping for ioy said Most fortunate end how doe I embrace thee comming so luckily and brought thee by such royall hands Then taking Perissus by the one hand and Limena by the other he said I haue yet one request more to make which granted I shall dye with all content and this is only in you two to consent to they promised that then he should not be refused These misfortunes said he which now are past and I hope shall haue buriall in mee haue neuerthelesse it is most likely left some false conceipt remaining in the hearts of some people which to remedy and vtterly take away desiring Limena's honor which without questioÌ„ remains spotted might flourish as deseruedly as the clearenesse of it selfe is without so much as the shadowe of a thought to the contrary I beseech you for your owne best fortunes and my quiet departing to promise mee that after my death you will marry each other One more worthy my Lord more loyall more chaste the world holds not and this are you bound to doe for her who for you hath been wrongd and Limena deny not this to your dying husband being the last he can euer aske you He needed not vrge them much to what they most coueted and purposed in their hearts before yet to giue him full satisfaction though on her side with bashfull and fearefull consenting they yeelded to him Then my Lord said he take her and my hearts prayers with best wishes to you and my best belou'd Limena in witnesse of my loue to you I bestow on you this most worthy Lord far better befitting you and my whole estate with that embracing them kissing her and lastly lifting vp his eyes to heauen he departed they like true friends closing his eyes Being now growne late 〈◊〉 that night they went into the Caue which but lately had been the priâ—on of sweet Limena with them they caryed the body laying it in the further part of the hollownesse Then did Parselius tell them how infinitly happy he esteemed himselfeâ— in hauing come so luckily to serue them of whom and whose vnfortunat affection hee had heard hauing had it from the rare Shepherdesse Name her he could not his breath being stopp'd with sighes and his teares falling down in all abundance sent from his heart which dropp'd like the weeping of a Vine when men without pitty wound it Perissus seeing his sorrow made hast to ask the cause fearing some great harme had befalne that Diuine Creature of whom he gaue such praises as Limena thought they were too much which hee perceiuing left with demanding of her safety and why his greeuing was which Parselius hauing passionatly and truely related he desired most earnestly to heare the rest of Limena's story which she thus began My Lords after I sent the Letter and the time expired Philargus came for my answer or to performe his vowe which with desire I attended although he contrary to my wishes prolonged it When hee had what I resolud to giue him for satisfaction which was a direct deniall being in these words I know as your wife I am in your power to dispose of then vse your authority for so foule a staine will I neuer lay vpon my bloud as to betray the Prince name you in truth I durst not least at the last that might mooue my affections Then did he command me to goe with him to my death I hoped when he brought me into a great Wood in the midâ—t whereof he made a fire the place being fit and I thinke sure had been vsed in former time to offer sacrifice in to the Siluan Gods Then hee made mee vndresse my selfe which willinglie and readily I did preparing my selfe to be the poore offring but the richest that richnesse of faith in loue could offer When I had put off all my apparell but one little Petticote he opened my breast and gaue me many wounds the markes you may here yet discerne letting the Mantle fall againe a little lower to shew the cruell remembrance of his crueltie which although they were whole yet made they newe hurts in the louing heart of Perissus suffering more paine for them then he had done for all those himselfe had receiued in his former aduentures therfore softly putting the Manâ—le vp againe and gently couering them lest yet they might chance to smart besought her to goe on longing to haue an end of that tragicall historie and to come againe â—o their meeting which was the onely balme could be applied vnto his bleeding heart She ioyfull to see this passion because it was for her and sorry it was Perissus did sorrow proceeded And after these threatning many more and death it selfe if yet I consented not But seeing nothing could preuaile hee tooke my clothes and with them wip'd the bloud off from me I expecting nothing but the laâ—t act which I thought should haue been concluded with my burning his mind chang'd from the first
was that I should vnderstand I belieued them and blame mee not braue Sir for neuer was man Lord of so many womens soules as this my Lord had rule of who without flatterie did deserue it neuer being vnthankfull for their loues Thus my beliefe gaue my faith I euer after constantly louing him hee shewed as much to me thus we loued or thought we loued which no sooner had possession but freedome followed as the second to loue and this brought mee to my onely playing part of miserie For being young and full of ioy inriched with the treasure of his affection I fell into a snare closely couered and so more dangerous being caught by the craft of one whose wit was to strong for mee being as plentifull in wickednesse as excesse could make or execution demonstrate in fulnesse I so true a louer as I thought on nothing else if ought it was how to indeare myselfe in his fauor by respecting and louing those hee loued a way much vsed and to some profitably practised this yet threw me into the Gulfe of mischiefe giuing welcome to that Wretch who vnder shew of respect spoild my only comfort stealing like rust and eating my heart with as marring and harmefull deceits The loue I saw my Lord bare him was the chiefe cause that made me like him trusting his choice aboue mine owne iudgement for I knew him once thanklesse enough to another from whom my Lord tooke him to bee his companion-like seruant His discourse was delicate and so vnusuall his wit not lying the same way that other good ordinary ones did and so excelling for what pleasinger then varietie or sweeter then flatterie which hee was filled with all and made mee giue or credit to a treacherous deceitâ— which perswaded mee hee was full of honest plainenes so prety and familiar his discourses were as shewed a pleasing innocency yet indued with admirable learning This moued me to trust considering that the greater his knowledge was the more he should know truth but contrariwise he was the breach to my misery My Lord imploidâ— him in some occasions abroad whether by his own desire to see or his wil to be certaine of some forraine knowledge he went away leauing me secure and happiest in my Lords affection Many letters I receiued froÌ„ him wherin he witnessed his truth which indeed did wel for only paper and inke said it not being worthy or honest enough to blush for his shame but in the time of his absence my loued loue did like all men alter it may bee caused by greater beautie it may â—ee prouoked to it by my imperfections but some thing it was I dare not say a naturall inconstancy bâ—t rather taxe my selfe with the blame then touch him made me vnfortunate This vnworthy man found it and as vildly pursued it smoothing me with flatteries while he glos'd with him and her to whom he had chang'd as long as euer hee discernd curtesie in him towards me which at last most cruelly was likewise taken from mee hee followed mee but then look'd on me as a rainy day doth on the earth after a flattering morning I was deceiued and indeed vndone but t was by him and for him whom I lou'd yet after some respect I found therefore I pardon forgiue him Sometime this lasted succeeding as I should haue told you the death of my husband and sonne by him for marryed I was and hauing ambition enough to hold mee from that in hope of obtayning him for my husband while the King still fauour'd mee and if I might with arrogancy say loued me But my loue to my chosen refus'd all others and he at last refused me which when the crafty vnhonest man directly saw hee not only as I told you left obseruing mee but proudly sought my loue if I scornd his basenesse a thing raised by my Father to be knowne but made by my Lord to shew in light Consider you who needs must know what can be yeelded by a spirit true to noble birth and more noble loue to a worme boldly crawling before the best and lifting vp an vnualued head as if a braue beast but a beast indeed he was and I the misfortune had to be a taster of his Villany vnder colour of visiting me after my losse he gaind still in my true heart a confidence of his renewing respect to mee which I prized him for confessing still and purely all the flames I felt for his Lord and soone after this he shewed his dishonesty and such neglect as if I were a blab or one desirous to doe ill I might yet mischeefe him But I am farre from that and will doe well let all other ills succeed that can for goodnesse and truth shall gouerne me yet because all his falshood shall not remaine hid or be vnknowne I will tell you somewhat that hee did for some-thing it concearns this story Hee came to me and found me apt or tooke occasion to thinke so for hee spake of loue and proceeded so farr as he brought it to my fortune I answered moderatly yet so home to my owne hart as he saw I was the same how euer he was changed for whose change my affliction was and so I discouer'd my paines and sorrowes as he said I complain'd fitly to be commiserated and that he pittied me Doe not so said I for I contemne pitty from thence hee grew to aspire to winne me and so boldly and â—aucely at lasâ— carryed himselfe as if my deerest knew it though he now shunns me he much more would scorne him that durst attempt to winne her whom he had once loued and yet holds as his owne though in despised sort And more to shew his villany he only serues and seekes and sues to haue her grace who hee perceiueth keeps my loue from me thinking himselfe base villaine good enough for me who now doe weare the wretched liuery of losse what is euer shun'd I haue in store forsaken and forlorne in loue Yet be it as it is and they continue as they doe I am and euer will be my selfe But what said Amphilanthus is the cause of this extreamity of griefe Haue I not told you Sir said she being forsaken and despised and why only for louing Dull I haue beene called for constancy is now termed so and his assurance of my faith made him leaue mee a thing hee thinks soone wonne or rather held at pleasure confident assurance of firmnesse growing to coÌ„tempt this course doe vnfortunate poore coÌ„stant louers run What is become said Amphilanthus of this man He liues said she I hope to shame himselfe Where is your loue said hâ— Fixed truely in my heart other where I can giue a small account of but as I haue heard liuing with a new loue bewitched sure with some charmes else could he not continue closed alone within her armes while armes and all true noblenes is buried in his losse for lost he is since hee fell to her power Why did
try it but she excused it with her vowe to liue and die in that place concluding her dayes with her former resolution He parted thence and so left the Lady Pastora on the Rocke as hard as her fortune and as white as her faith Steriamus holds on his way and at last is within sight of the Rocke whither he must goe being there arriued he came to the house and at the gate he found Leandrus fearefull to attempt least he should not gaine the honour of concluding but he hartened him and so together aduenture Steriamus absolutely thinking it belonged to him and Vrania who had beene disguis'd and therefore that might be enough to answer those things that like Oracles are neuer without antiquitie As soone as they entered Steriamus like the other his Leaders ran to the Chaire and tooke Vrania who with him went to the others a place being reserued for her now were all almost in couples as they wished Rosindy and Meriana Selarinus and Philistella Antissius and Selarina the rest as they would and came coupled Polarchos and his soone wonne Lady Parselius and Dalinea Philarchos and Orilena but still Pamphilia sits leaning her cheeke on her hand her eyes lifted vpwards as asking helpe at her feete lay Leandrus gazing on her and as much imploring pity from her as she begged it from another with whom her heart was her eies not in the absence of her heart turning to any other lower then the top of the roome and there staied by the roofe not with desire to behold any thing but her loue and now his mâ—mory all ioyed in others loues and a fine sight it was to see them in their various habits yet all to one purpose imitating the world which for all the changes and varieties she hath must haue but one conclusion and one end Perissus arriues in Sicely without any aduenture and with as constant a loue as he brought Limena met him to whom he related all his fortunes and the accidents in the late warr there he encountred the two young Princes of Corinthia to whom they came of purpose to shew their thankfulnes for the honor done vnto them both in Knighting them bringing them to the knowledge of the wrong doer and to be esteemed accounted friends to the true and excellent Amphilanthus He fâ—asted them with great kindnes intreated their stay company to the inchantment which they consented to before their going thence which was not in three months were fit for the adueÌ„ture being both surprised by that secret serpent Loue the elder falling in loue with a sister to Limena borne many yeeres after her and by a second Wife whom her father tooke after the death of her mother she was a most delicate young Lady and worthy of a braue seruant which he proued both loyall and for hiâ— valour deseruing fame The other with a Lady neare of kin to the King who was an heire and willingly bestowed vpon him with consent of all especially liked by Perissus who by this meanes held him alwaies there with him giuing him great preferments and offices about his person proâ—ing a Gallant Gentlemen and a faithfull seruant to him and his Crowne fighting a hard and cruell combat in defence of the Kings honour against a Traytor in that Country whose head he brought and presented to the King This he did in the iourney towards the Rocke passing by the Castle where the ill man liued who came forth and chalenged the King but the youth of Corinthia begg'd the liberty of the combat and brauely performed it in the end they came to the Island and there with the rest were shut vp the places being almost full for daily some or other came By this was newes of the inchantment come to Amphilanthus who with Ollorandus were newly returned from their iourney going into Hungary to visit Melysinda they had raised some pretty aduentures in their trauels and had a more pleasing time of it then in any they had made before being free and better disposed and hauing got againe some of their old passions or memories of them about them which made Amphilanthus willinger to try the aduenture and release Pamphilia of whom he had let in a more courteous opinion then he had when he first blamed her or thought she had done amisse yet no further it passed Musalina must needs see this inchantment with her went Lucenia to see this also and to be an Actor in it so like an Amason Musalina attires her selfe though vnfit habits for her who was no hater of mankind Lucenia like an AEgyptian and towards the place they trauell Lucenia vsed among them like a countrey Lady in the progresse hauing on to see but little respected meeting with the proud Queene of Bulgaria but now Leonius must be spoken of who going directly into Greece met nothing there for many dayes but the sorrow for the lost Ladies hee had no disposition to sorrow therefore meant not as yet to visit the Court but as others did he being as much as many ingaged in good nature to follow the search determined vpon that but then he came into a part of Arcadia not taking the directest but pleasantest way to the Sea at the entring into this Paradice on Earth for sweetnes delicasies springâ—ng there as plâ—ntifully as Primiroses in other poorer places he liked and wonder'd not sufficiently as he thought being able to contemplate the fulnes and richnes of the bounty of that Prouince riding sometimes sometimes walking bâ—holding the rarenes of it yet when he had seene all the varieties encrease in varying to pleasure he was yet set vppon by a more admirable sight which was the most delightfull obiect for man to like and this as well to be liked as any being a faire and daintie woman appearing a Shepheardesse but such an one as AEnona was in her time framed as if but to be remembred and set as a foile to the excellency of the perfections in this creature so much surpassing description as conceit doth commonly excell expression The young Knight beheld this shining Starre with amazednes while she past not farre off from him her aparrell a gowne of gray cut square a fine ruffe about her necke a litle before it was open the rest couered with pure white strips but a more pure whitenesse appeared when the skinne was seene as white and soft as Swannes downe on the breast her haire carelesly throwne vp neither tiyde nor vntyde but cast into a delightfull neglectiuenes some pretty flowers and knoâ— of ash-colour ribon being here and there placed between the loose fastenings of her haire gloues she wore none shewing the innocent vertue she was inriched withall her legges and feete so delicately shaped as they would rather seeme fram'd for showe then vse yet were they but fine enough to carry the body they were made to serue She went with a modest but cheerefull pace and being a litle pass'd looked backe againe with which he
was alasse strooke and all his senses raâ—ished his loue onely a senselesse passion especially when so suddenly surprising and at best but a sportfull madnesse possessing and taking the place his better wits till that instant dwelt in her bright and faire gray eyes looking as if the Moone in all her glory of brightnesse could haue a companion together her commanding beauty wrought so in the Prince as he was a new creature yet part of the olde man which was boldnesse got so farre into him as he followed her knowing that a man who menâ— to followe aduentures must not feare any thing especially a woman and so sweete an one They passed the plaine and so entered into a litle Groue where he heard as at her comming exquisite Musique drawing neerer hee discerned a Fountaine made in the fashion of an Emperiall Crowne with a Globe on the toppe out of which like a full shower of raine the water came so plentifully and showringly as it resembled such plenty so finely was it counterfeited and the trees grewe so as who hadde stood in the wood would not suddenly haue knowne whether it had rayned or no so powringly high and sweetely it fell like an Aprill shower and so farre as it came vpon the boughs of the circkling trees ratling among them to second the musicke Vnderneath was the place where many sat round the water falling beyond them as if ordained for a coole Canopy to shelter them from heate and not to offend with one teare-like drop lest that might make sadnesse thought on there did she with her companions in that life place themselues the Groue was much of Sicamore trees the rootes of which and betweene which were set with Roses and other sweete Flowers Violet Pinck and many such without this was a fine circle paued with seuerall coloured stones into which the water fell and made a pretty murmuring brooke the waste of which deuided itselfe into two lesser running as with paine to part from those excellencies in teares kissing the bankes for parting from them Mirtle and Lawrell was also flourishing to shew them that although Venus were Lady there yet Apollo was often called and for his sake his tree was honoured among those beauties Many faire Maides were sitting about her and such as had she been away might haue been commended highly such possession had this sight gaind on the Prince as he gazed euen to blindnes like one too long looking on the Sunne he admired till he lost sense to admire yet went his senses but round for comming to the first place hee had sense againe to loue in wonder but out of that he was put for the heate a little slacked she rose and the rest attended her shee leading them and one more then her wonted troope the Italian Prince prisoner He durst not follow neere yet did his eies kisse euery step she took while he imboldned with loue yet a little with-held by feare went sadly and softly on a prety young Shepherd came smiling to him vsing these words If Sir said hee this sight hath any way displeased you the same may make you amends for surely you see not such euery day or if a former cause molesteth you looke on these Lasses and assuredly you will be cured There can said hee be little hope of cure from them where such danger dwells You should not me thinks answered the Lad doubt nor is it for a man of your profession to feare especially Beauties yet indeed I cannot blame you since al eies that haue seene these haue yeelded their hearts as slaues to them Leonius made no answere the Shepherd proceeded But Sir be not afraid for belieue me they are not more faire then courteous Alas cryd he how can I who am a Stranger yet a possessor of a lost liberty and imprisoned hart presume to come where such perfections rest Who dares approch lightning no more dare I into her presence neerer then to admire and behold her I must needs say replide the Youth it is the lesse strange that you are touched since all our hearts are subiected to the lowest of despaire I would I were but touched cryd he then might I scape but I am wounded vnto death would I had beene a Shepheard as you are and tended flockes so I had not knowne the torment of lost ioyes or so happy as to haue beene borne among you or destined to liue for eternall good with you Why may you not said the Shepheard many good Knights haue after great honors gain'd retird and taken our liues vpon them It is true answerd he and had I done any thing yet to answere my birth or now taken order I would doe so too Heere are said hee many occasions to exercise your strength in wee haue games which when you trie you will say cleare force must bee found in the best performancers of them besides wild beasts that often spoile and vexe our flocks nay the last day that rare creature you I am suâ—e most and only admire was in danger of a fierce Beare by misfortune let loose This stirred vp his thoughts O said he why was I so vnfauoured by fortune as not to be here and being here to deserue by my seruice at least one kind looke from her who holds my soule and it should seeme yours but if so be not angry that I aduenture to confesse my selfe your Riuall you haue already a little encouraged me in telling me all hearts yeeld then I trust I shall not fall into your displeasure for being one of the Company In all true respect I confesse I am said the Lad her seruant but such are her perfections as teach vs not to aspire higher then to behold and obay her other thoughts wee are not permitted but banish as treasons and no more able are wee to giue birth to so high desires then to looke on the Sunne without hauing our harts throwne downe condemned as our eyes cast wateringly for presumptuous gazing begging pardon for such attempt Dare you not loue her said he can feare appeare before bold loue My hardinesse said the Lad ascends to serue her with my life my hopes to be accepted as her creature and this will be farre beyond my merit if I gaine so much and that I feare as something makes you doubt I doubt indeed said he and feare to giue offence because I loue I likewise loue said he and loue you for your loue for had I not been a louer I could not so soone haue found your disease I iudged you straight by my selfe I pitied you as I doe my selfe who fell in loue directly as you did the first â—ight strake me I was wounded with the first dart her killing eyes did shew towards me alas she meant me as she vowes no harme but what wretch could I do when I was hurt I durst not aske ought but pardon she granted that and weekes did passe before I sought her fauour and moneths ere I did venture for reward but
loue for the most incomparable Legacy that any man can or could receiue thus thus shee died and thus yet doth shee liue in me I breathe her breath I loue her loue I liue but for her sake and I hope shall ere long die to serue her and goe to her Then hee threw himselfe flat on the ground the other looking on him rose and lay downe by him tooke him in his armes and said Neuer let strife be betweene vs whose fortunes so neare concurre none can be nearer nor none so like vnlesse it could bee that Elyna and Myra were but one woman and you and I one man we are both equally vnfortunate in losse they equal in perfections yours onely somthing more happy in a quieter death and dying in your armes mine in a speedier end thus the difference none let no difference be betwixt vs. I am as ready to embrace this as you haue been to vrge it said Peryneus none liker Patience of misfortune none fitter to agree together wayle you your worthy chaste Myra I will lament my chaste and worthy Elyna sigh you I le do so complaine I le answere you and both conclude as the Period Neuer liued worthier creatures neuer vnhappier soules out-liued worth Thus they embraced thus twined past some time and after liued together attending the Piramede where twise euery yeare funerall solemnities were done by them after the first yeare the Bauarian returned home and there liued in sorrow neuer marrying but still louing his loued Loues memory The Nimphs returned glad of the peace and agreement while the two Knights the people spake of in faire armours went on in the search being as Peryneus guessed the Dukes of Wertâ—berg Brunswicke who had this accident to bring them into that Country and enquirie They as the other Princes did seeke the Emperour and the Queene and fortunately for the one the Duke of Brunswick such a youth as Peryneus described him in a Castle in the Desart being there receiued ciuilly by the Lord and Lady of that place the Lord a very old man the Lady of middle age he hauing married her when hee was aged and shee young had one daughter then about fourteene yeares able to heare of Cupid though not it may be experienced by wound of his force This young innocent Maide neuer hauing vnderstood any thing in that kind of making loue offerd her nor knowing how to deny when so kind an offer was made as profession of being a seruant and but desiring her fauour not vnderstanding what such a fauour as a Louer asketh meant when the Duke courted her kissed her hands vowed his seruice flattred her innocent eares with faire beguiling words when his face could not but inuite liking his smiles won yeelding his body though low and thicke his speech was sweete and being little like it selfe little troublesome but more pleasing then the more kinder Youthes she had euer heard want of wit was couered with being a Duke greatnesse being much with many women his face it is certaine was blush-burnt but his words delightfull his countenance mild his fashion protestations amorous entertainement gentle daintie winning so as one may say in him the want in his braines were repayed by the goodnesse and gentlenesse of his fashion and spirit Pretty honest hee was something valiant aboue most merry and the pleasingest company that might bee true in a kind to his friend a reasonable vertue loyall to his Prince courtious to his Blood and beloued for these little parts of all that knew him so as his outward beautie and these qualities being enriched with a smooth flattering way of louing women made him gaine well These I cannot say out of iudgement in her wunne her but by fate it fell on her at first and after she vsed his vertues but for a mask for her liking him or an excuse for her choice when it should haue been a commendations to her vnderstanding to find so much in the inward part as to ouersee the ordinary way for womens loue which is outward beauty and that in some measure he had that being ioyned with delicate apparrell being the most vsuall attractiue powers to their affections as if rather they would loue Pictures then the wisest or worthiest man in old cloathes or ill made Ruffes and Bands being more to a faire Lady then valour or learning the one accounted poore and heauy the other boisterous and troublesome neate suites better then hacked though by that rich armours O the ignorance of women or rather the misfortune of such misunderstanding women for of that delicate sexe there are excellent creatures and among those many Pictures good Pieces and in truth this was a pretty one who willingly and alas gladly receiued the Dukes sute smiled on his blushing lookes yet as faire as he could make them for borne bashfull hee could not find loue powerfull enough to warrant his face with boldnesse though to crowne it with obedience Hee finding her comming how did he leape like a wanton into the Riuer of ioy swimming and so embracing comfort in his armes yet wanting the chiefe part let slip the flattering hope againe yet taking the streames in his armes and striking forward to his ends Alas what needed this shee was won he onely wanted opportunitie will and consent failed not which hee finding also found this meanes to compasse it The Duke of Wertenberg was lodged so as his chamber looked into the Garden which was betwixt his Chamber and hers the windowes opposite and so crosse as they were so farre asunder as they could not doe any more then see one another neither perfectly discerne lookes or smiles nor let speech make their eares beneficiall to them but louers will make benefit of small things so did they of this for heere hee gaining the helpe of his friend to the good hee sought hee brought this profit to his loue The Duke of Wertenberg was a braue Gentleman but sometimes sickly so as hee vsed to lie warmer in his bed and weare such things as appeared a little woman-like and withall something curious he was in his Chamber which not exceeding the limits that became himselfe he was neuer blamed for it but now it brought him praise because it serued his friend who thus procur'd his ends The weather hot euenings faire nights light by the Moones aide hee perswaded his companion to put on his Wastcoate and night-wearing and walk into the garden hauing a faire Mantle on his body he not so much higher then the Page which waited on the Duke who was a young man or great boy took his garment which was a Horsemans coate of cloth garded with Veluet that those who might by chance else see them might thinke they meant not to bee seene but walked there to passe the euening Admirably he played on the Lute and carried one of purpose with him his Cap hee wore low ouer his face and came softly and passionately as louers doe and might appeare because