The First Day.

ON an Evening before Easter-Day, I sate at a Table, and having (as my Custom was) in my humble Prayer sufficiently con­versed with my Creator, and consider­ed [...] many great Mysteries (whereof the Father of Lights his Majesty had shown me not a few) and being now ready to prepare in my Heart, toge­ther with my dear Paschal Lamb, a small unleavened, undefiled Cake, All on a sudden ariseth so horrible a Tem­pest, that I imagined no other but that through its mighty force, the Hill whereon my little House was founded would flye in pieces. But in as much as this, and the like from the Devill (who had done me many a spight) was no new thing to me; I took courage, [Page 4] and persisted in my Meditation, till some body (after an unusual manner, touched me on the Back; whereupon I was so hugely terrified, that I durst hardly look about me; yet I shewed my self as cheerful as (in the like Oc­currences) humane frailty would per­mit; Now the same thing still twich­ing me several times by the Coat, I looked back, and behold it was a fair Praeconissa▪ and glorious Lady, whose Garments were all Skye-colour, and curiously (like Heaven) bespangled with golden Stars, in her right Hand she bare a Trumpet of beaten Gold, whereon a Name was ingraven (which I could well read in) but am as yet forbidden to reveal it. In her left Hand she had a great bundle of Letters of all Lunguages, which she (as I afterwards understood) was to carry into all Countries. She had also large and beautiful Wings, full of Eyes throughout, wherewith she could mount aloft and flye swifter than any Eagle. I might perhaps been able to take fur­ther notice of her, but because she staid so small a [...]t [...]e with me, and terror and amazement still possessed me, I was fain to he content. For as [Page 5] soon as I turned about, she turned her Letter▪ over and over, and at length drew out a small one, which with great Reverence she laid down upon the Table, and without giving one word, departed from me. But in her mount­ing upward, she gave so mighty a blast on her gallant Trumpet, that the whole Hill ecchoed thereof, and for a full quar­ter of a hour after, I could hardly hear my own Words.

In so unlooked for an adventure I was at a loss, How either to advise, or assist my poor self, and therefore fell upon my Knees, and besought my Crea­tor to permit nothing contrary to my Eternal Happiness to befall me; where­upon with fear and trembling, I went Epistolas to the Letter, which was now so heavy, as had it been meet Gold, it could hard­ly have been so weighty. Now as I was diligently viewing it, I found a little Seal, whereupon a curious Cross with this Inscription, IN HOC SIGNO [...] VINCES, was in graven.

Now as soon as I espied this Sigh I was the more comforted, as not be­ing ignorant that such a Seal was little acceptable, and much less useful to the [Page 6] Devil. Whereupon I tenderly open­ed the Letter, and within it, in an Azure Field, in Golden Letters, found the following Verses written.

Underneath stood Sponsus and Sponsa.

As soon as I had read this Letter, I [...] Nuptiis. was presently like to have fainted a­way, all my Hair stood an end, and a cold Sweat trickled down my whole Body. For although I well perceived that this was the appointed Wedding, whereof seven Years before I was ac­quainted in a bodily Vision, and which now so long time I had with great [Page 7] earnestness attetded; and which lastly, by the account and calculation of the [...] I had must diligently observed, I found so to be, yet could I never fore-see that it must happen under so Requisita in hospitibus Secundum. 7. Pondera. grievious and perilous conditions, For [...]eds I before imagined that to he a wel-come, and acceptable Guest, I needed only be nearly to appear at the Wedding: I was now directed to Di­vine. Providence, of which until this 1 Electio in­certa. time I was never certain. I also found by my self, the more I examined my self, that in my Head there was nothing 2 Inscitia Ig­norantia Cae­citas mentis but gross mis-understanding, and blind­ness in my st [...] things, so that I was not able to comprehend even those things which lay under my Feet and which I daily I conversed with, much 3. 4. less that I should be born to the search­ing Natura Se­creta. out, and understanding of the Se­crets of Nature; since in my opinion Nature might every where find a more 5. 6. vertuous Disciple, to whom to intrust her precious, though temporary, and changeable Treasures▪ I found also that my bodily behaviour, and out­ward good Conversation, and Brother­ly M [...]ndana affectio. Love toward my Neighbour, was [Page 8] not duly purged and cleansed; More­over the tickling of the Flesh manifest­ed it self, whose affection was bent on­ly to Pomp and Bravery, and Worldly Pride, and not to the good of mankind; And I was always contriving how by this art I might in a short time abun­dantly increase my profit and advan­tage, rear up stately Palaces, make my self an everlasting Name in the World, and other the like Carnal de­signs. But the obscure Words con­cerning the Three Temples did particu­larly afflict me, which I was not able to make out by any after-Speculation, and perhaps should not yet, had they not been wonderfully revealed to me. Thus sticking betwixt Hope and Fear, examining my self again and again, and finding only my own Frailty and Impotency, not being in any wise able to succour my self, and exceedingly amazed at the fore-mentioned threat­ning; at length I betook my self to my usual and most secure course; af­ter I had finished my earnest and most fervent Prayer, I laid me down in my Bed, that so perchance my good Angel by the Divine permission might ap­pear, [Page 9] and (as it had sometimes formerly happened) instruct me in this doubt­ful affair, which to the praise of God, my own good, and my Neighbours faithful and hearty warning and a­mendment did now likewise fall out. For I was yet scarce fallen asleep, when me-thought, I, together with a number­less multitude of men lay fettered with Visio per­semuium. Turris Cae­cita [...]. great Chains in a dark Dungeon, where­in without the least glimps of Light, we swarmed like Bees one over ano­ther, and thus rendred each others affliction more grievous. But although neither I, nor any of the rest could see one jot; yet I continually heard one heaving himself above the other, when his Chains or Fetters were become ever so little lighter, though none of us had much reason to shove up the o­ther, since we were all Captive Wretches. Now as I with the rest had continued a good while in this affliction, and each was still reproaching the other with his blindness and captivity, at length we heard many Trumpets sounding to­gether, and Kettle Drums beating so artificially thereto, that it even revi­ved and rejoyced us in our Calamity. [Page 10] During this Noise the cover of the Dungeon was from above lifted up, Illustratio. and a little light let down unto us. Then first might truly have been dis­cerned the bustle we kept, for all went pesle, mesle, and he who per­chance had too much heaved up him­self, was forced down again under the others Feet. In brief, each one strove to be uppermost, neither did I my self linger, but with my weighty Fetters slipt up from under the rest, and then heaved my self upon a Stone, which I [...]pis pr [...]stdis. laid hold of; howbeit, I was several times caught at by others, from whom yet as well as I might, with Hands and Feet I still guarded my self. For we imagined no other but that we should all be set at Liberty, which yet fell out quite otherwise. For after the Nobles, who looked upon us from above through the Hole, had a while recreated themselves with this our strugling and lamenting, a certain Ma [...]ister Ca [...] hoary-headed Ancient Man called to us to be quiet, and having scarce obtain­ed it, began (as I still remember) thus to say on.

He had scare done speaking. when an Antient Matron commanded her Ser­vants to let down the Cord seven times Magistrarestis. Septies. into the Dungeon, and draw up who­soever could hang upon it. Good God! that I could sufficiently describe the [Page 12] hurry and disquiet that then arose a­mongst us; For every one strove to get to the Cord, and yet only hindred each other. But after seven Minutes a sign was given by a little Bell, where­upon at the first Pull the Servants drew Prima vectura. 4. up four. At that time I could not come near the Cord by much, having (as is before-mentioned) to my huge mis-fourtune, betaken my self to a Stone at the Wall of the Dungeon, and thereby was disabled to get to the Cord which descended in the middle. The Cord was let down the second time, Secunda. but divers, because their Chains were too heavy, and their Hands too render, could not keep their hold on the Cord, but with themselves beat down many another, who else perhaps might have held fast enough; Nay, many an one was forcably pulled off by another, who yet could not himself get at it; so mutually envious were we even in this our great misery. But they of all others most moved my Compassion, whose weight was so heavy, that they tore their very hands from their Bodies, and yet could not get up. Thus it came to pass that at these five times [Page 13] very few were drawn up. For as soon as the sign was given, the Servants were so nimble at the draught, that the most part tumbled one upon another, and the Cord, this time especially, was drawn up very empty. Whereupon the greatest part, and even I my self, de­spaired of Redemption, and called up­on God that he would have pitty on us, and (if possible) deliver us out of this obscurity, who also then heard some of us: For when the Cord came down Sexta. the sixth time, some of them hung themselves fast upon it; and whilst in the drawing up, the Cord swung from one side to the other, it (perhaps by the will of God) came to me, which I suddainly catching, got uppermost a­bove all the rest, and so at length be­yond hope came out; whereat I exceed­ingly rejoyced, so that I perceived not the Wound, which in the drawing up I Vulpus ex­turro Caeci­tatis received on my Head by a sharp Stone, till I with the rest who were released (as was always before done) was fain Septima. to help at the seventh and last pull, at which time through straining, the Blood ran down all over my Cloathes, which I nevertheless for joy regarded not. [Page 14] Now when the last draught whereon the most of all hung, was finished; The Matron caused the Cord to be laid away, and willed her aged Son (at Magistr [...] ­ [...]lius. which I much wondred) to declare her Resolution to the rest of the Prisoners; who after he had a little bethought him­self spoke, thus unto them.

As soon as he had finished these Words, the Cover was again put to and looked down, and the Trumpets [Page 15] and Kettle-Drums began afresh, yet: could not the noise thereof be so loud, but that the bittet Lamentation of the Prisoners which arose in the Dungeon was heard above all, which soon also caused my Eyes to run-over. Presently after the Antient Matron, together with her Son sate down upon seats be­fore prepared, and commanded the Magistr [...] recenset [...] victos. Redeemed should be told. Now as soon as she understood the number, and had written it down in a Gold-yellow Tablet, she demanded every ones Name, which were also written down by a little page; having viewed us all, one Stertar [...] after another, she sighed, and spoke to her Son, so as I could well hear her, ‘Ah how hartily am I grieved for the poor Men in the Dungeon! I would to God I durst release them all,’ whereunto her Son replyed; ‘It is [...] Mother thus ordained of God, against whom we may not contend. In case we all of us were Lords, and possessed all the Goods upon Earth, and were seated at Table, who would there then be to be bring up the Service?’ whereupon his Mother held her peace, but soon after she said▪ ‘Well, how­ever, [Page 16] let these be freed from their Fetters;’ which was likewise presently done, and I, except a few was the last; yet could I not refrain, but (though I Oratitudo Auctoris e­vec [...] . still looked upon the rest, bowed myself before the Antient Matron, and thanked God that through her, had graciously and fatherly vouchsafed to bring me out of such Darkness into the Light: After me the rest did likewise, to the satisfaction of the Matron. Last­ly, Nummus [...] re [...] . to every one was given a piece of Gold for a Remembrance, and to spend by the way, on the one side whereof was stamped the rising Sun, on the other (as I remember) these three Let­ters, D L. S, And therewith every Deus Lux Solis vel Deo laus Semp. Mandatum Taciturr [...] one had License to depart, and was sent to his own Business with this annex­ed Intimation, That VVe to the Glory of God should benefit our Neighbours, and Reserve in silence what we had been intrusted with, which we also promised to do, and so departed one from another; But in regard of the Wounds which the Fetters had cased me, I could not well go forward, but halted on both Feet, which the Matron presently espying▪ laughing▪ at it, and calling [Page 17] me again to her said thus to me, My Son, Disaeffus [...] ­toris. let not this defect afflict thee, but call to mind thy Infirmities, and therewith thank God who hath permitted thee even in this World, and in the state of thy imperfection to come into so high a light, and keep these wounds for my Vuinus ex compedibus. sake. Whereupon the Trumpets began again to sound, which so affrighted me that I awoke, and then first perceived [...] rperge [...] . that it was onely a Dream, which yet was so strongly impressed upon my ima­gination, that I was still perpetually troubled about it, and me thought I was yet sensible of the wounds on my Feet. Solati [...] Howbeit, by all these things I well un­derstood that God had vouchsafed that I should be present at this [...] and hidden Wedding; wherefore [...] [...] ild­like confidence I returned [...] to his [...] Divine Majesty, [...] sought him, that he would further preserve me in his fear, that he would daily fill my Heart with Wisdom and Understanding, and at length graciously (without my desert) conduct me to the desired end. Here­upon Praeparat [...] [...] iter. I prepared my self for the way, put on my white linnen Coat, girded my Loyns, with a Blood-red Ribbon bound cross-ways over my Shoulder: [Page 18] In my Hat I stuck four red Roses, that I might the sooner by this Token be taken notice of amongst the throng. For food I took Bread, Salt, and Water, which by the counsel of an understanding person I had at certain times used, not without profit, in the like occurrences. But before I parted from my Cottage, I first [...] this my dress, and wedding Gar­ment, fell down upon my Knees, and besought God, that in case such a thing were, he would vouchsafe me a good issue. And thereupon in the presence Votum. of God I made a vow, that if any thing through his grace should be revealed un­to me, I would employ it neither to my own honour nor authority in the World, but to the spreading of his Name, and the service of my Neighbour. And with this v [...] and good hope I departed out of my [...] with joy.

The Second Day.

I was hardly got out of my Cell into Tripudium Creatura­rum ob nuptias. a Forrest, when me thought that the whole Heaven and all the Elements had already trimmed themselves against this Wedding. For even the Birds in my opinion chanted more pleasantly then before, and the young Fawns skip­ped so merrily, that they rejoyced my old Heart, and moved me to sing: where­fore with a loud Voice I thus began:

This sang I now from the bottom of my Heart throughout the whole Forrest, so that it resounded from all parts, and Per Sylvam. the Hills repeated my last words, until In Campum. at length I espyed a curious green Heath, whither I be took my self out of the Forrest. Upon this Heath stood three lovely tall Cedars, which by rea­son 3. Cedri. 3. Templa. of their breadth afforded an excel­lent and desired shade, whereat I great­ly rejoyced; for although I had not hi­ther to gone far, yet my earnest longing made me very faint, whereupon I hasted to the Trees to rest a little under them, [Page 21] but as soon as I came somewhat nigher, Tabella Mer­curialis. 1. ♀ I espyed a Tablet fastned to one of them, on which (as afterwards I read) in cu­rious Letters the following words were written:

Now as soon as I had read this Wri­ting, all my joy was near vanished again, and I who before Sang merrily, began Via Autoris engenda. now inwardly to Lament. For al­though I saw all the three ways before me, and understood that hence forward it was vouchsafed me, to make choice of one of them; yet it troubled me that in case I went the stony and rocky way, I might get a miserable and deadly fall, or taking the long one, I might wan­der out of it through by-ways, or be otherway's detained in the great Jour­ney. Neither durst I hope, that I a­mongst thousands should be the very He, who should choose the Royal way. I saw likewise the Fourth before me, but it was so invironed with Fire and [Page 24] Exhalations, that I durst not (by much) draw near it, and therefore again and again considered, whether I should re­turn back, or take any of the ways be­fore Dubium. me. I well weighed my own un­worthiness, but the Dream still com­forted me, that I was delivered out of the Tower, and yet I durst not confi­dently Confirmatio. rely upon a Dream; whereup­on I was so variously perplexed, that for very great weariness, hunger and thirst seised me, whereupon I pre­sently Columba Alba arbori Meteuriali insidens. drew out my Bread, cut a slice of it, which a snow-white Dove of whom I was not aware, sitting upon the Tree, espyed and therewith (perhaps accord­ing to her wonted manner) came down, and betook her self very familiarly to me, to whom I willingly imparted my food, which she received, and so with her prettiness did again a little refresh me. But as soon as her enemy a most Co [...] Ni­ger. black Raven perceived it, he streight darted himself down upon the Dove, and taking no notice of me, would needs force away the Dove's meat, who could no otherwise guard her self but by flight; whereupon they both toge­ther flew toward the South, at which I V [...] s Mori­ [...] . was so hugely incensed and grieved, [Page 25] that without thinking what I did, I made hast after the filthy Raven, and so against my will ran into one of the forementioned ways a whole Fields length; and thus the Raven being chased away, and the Dove delivered, I then first observed what I had inconsiderately done, and that I was already entred in­to Autor in­cidit i [...] 2. Viam in­cogi [...] . a way, from which under peril of great punishment I durst not retire. And though I had still wherewith in some measure to comfort my self, yet that which was worst of all to me, was, that I had left my Bag and Bread at the Tree, and could never retrieve them: For as soon as I turned my self about, a contrary wind was so strong against the, that it was ready to fell me. But if I went forward on my way, I perceived no hinderance at all: From whence I could easily conclude, that it would cost me my life, in case I should set my self against the Wind; wherefore I patient­ly took up my cross, got upon my feet, and resolved, since so it must be, I would use my utmost endeavour to get to my Journeys end before night. Now al­though many apparent by-ways shewed themselves, yet I still proceeded with my Compass, and would not budge one Compassos. [Page 26] step from the Meridian Line; howbe­it the way was oftentimes so rugged and unpassable, that I was in no little doubt of it. On this way I constantly thought upon the Dove and Raven, and yet could not search out the meaning, until at length upon a high. Hill afar of I espy­ed Diversorium a stately Portal, to which not re­garding how far it was distant both from me and the way I was in, I hasted, Occasus ☉ because the Sun had already hid himself under the Hills, and I (by far) could else­where espy no abiding place, and this ve­rily I ascribe only to God, who might well have permitted me to go forward in this way, and with held my Eyes that so I might have gazed beside this Gate. To which (as was said) I now made migh­ty haste, and reached it by so much Day­light, as to take a very competent view of it. Now it was an exceeding Royal beau­tiful Portal, whereon were carved a mul­titude of most noble Figures and Devices, every one of which (as I afterwards lear­ned) had its peculiar Signification; Above was fixed a pretty large Tablet, with Tabula in­scriptionis. these Words, Proculhinc, procul ite pro­fani, and other things more, that I was earnestly forbidden to relate. Now as soon as I was come under the Portal, [...] or. [Page 27] there streight stepped forth one in a Sky-coloured habit, whom I in friendly manner saluted, which though he thank­fully returned, yet he instantly demand­ed Literae [...] vocationis. of me my Letter of Invitation. O how glad was I that I had then brought it with me! For how easi­ly might I have forgotten it (as it also chanced to others) as he himself told me? I quickly presented it, where­with he was not only Satisfied, but (at which I much wondred) shewed me abundance of respect, saying, Come in my Brother, an acceptable Guest you are to me; and withal intreated me not to with-hold my Name from him. Now having replyed, that I was a Brother of the Red-Rosie Cross, he both wondred, and seemed to rejoyce at it, and then Nomea Au­toris. pr [...] ded thus, My Brother have you nothing about you wherewith to pur­chase a Token? I answered my ability was small, but if he saw any thing about me he had a mind to, it was at his service. Now he having request­ed of me my Bottle of Water, and I Hmitur a­qua Tessera. granted it, he gives me a golden Token whereon stood no more but these two Letters, S. C. intreating me that when Sanctitate Consta [...] ti [...] Sponsus it stood me in good stead, I would [Page 28] remember him. After which I ask­ed Charus. [...] pes, Charitas. him, how many were got in be­fore me, which he also told me, and lastly out of meer Friendship gave me Diploma. a sealed Letter to the second Porter. Now having lingered some time with him, the Night grew on: Whereupon a great Beacon upon the Gate was im­mediately fired, that so if any were still upon the way, he might make haste thither. But the way where it finished at the Castle, was on both sides inclosed The Castle. with Walls, and planted with all sorts of excellent Fruit-Trees, and still on every third Tree on each side Lant­horns were hung up, wherein all the Candles were already lighted with a glorious Torch by a beautiful Virgin, Virgo Luc [...] ­fera. habited in Skye-colour, which was so noble and Majestick a Spectacle, that I The Lady Chamber­l [...] or Con­troul [...] r. yet delayed somewhat longer then was requisite. But at length after sufficient Information, and an advantageous In­struction, I friendly departed from the first Porter. On the way, though I would gladly have known what was written in my Letter, yet since I had no reason to mistrust the Porter, I forbare my purpose, and so went on the way, until I came likewise to the second Gate, [Page 29] which although it was very like the Porta Secunda. other, yet was it adorned with Images & mystick significations. In the affixed Tablet stood Date & dabitur vobis. Under this Tabella. Gate lay a terrible grim Lyon chain'd, who as soon as he espi'd me arose & made Custos Leo. at me with great roaring: whereupon 2 Portitor▪ the second Porter who lay upon a Stone of Marble, awaked, and wished me not to be troubled or affrighted, and then drove back the Lion, and having re­ceived the Letter which I with trem­bling reached him, he read it, and with very great respect spake thus to me; Now well-come in Gods Name unto me the man whom of long time I would gladly have seen. Mean while he also drew out a token, and asked me whe­ther I could purchase it? But I having nothing else left but my Salt, presented Tessers omp [...] a sale. it to him, which he thankfully accep­ted. Upon this token again stood on­ly Studio mere [...] is Sal humor spon­so mitte [...] us Sal mine­ralis Sal menstrualis. two Letters namely, S. M. Being now just about to enter discourse with him, it began to ring in the Castle, whereupon the Porter counselled me to run apace, or else all the paines and labour I had hitherto taken would serve to no purpose, for the Lights above began already to be extinguished; where­upon [Page 30] I dispatched with such haste that I heeded not the Porter, in such anguish was I, and truly it was but necessary, for I could not run so fast but that the Virgin, after whom all the lights were put out, was at my heels, and I should never have found the way, had not she with her Torch afforded me some light; I was more-over constrained to enter the very next to her, and the Gate was Porta clau­ditur. so suddainly clap't to, that a part of my coate was locked out, which I verily was forced to leave behind me; for neither I, nor they who stood ready without and called at the Gate could prevail with the Porter to open it again, but he delivered the Keys to the Virgin, who took them with her into the Court. Mean time I again surveyed the Gate, which now appeared so rich, as the whole World could not equal it; just by the Door were two Columns, on one Pyramides Port [...] . of them stood a pleasant Figure with this Inscription, Congratulor. The other having its Countenance vailed was sad, and beneath was written, Candoleo. In brief, the Inscriptions and Figures thereon, were so dark and mysterious, that the most dextrous man upon Earth [Page 31] could not have expounded them. But Promissu [...] Auto [...]s all these (if God permit) I shall e'er long publish and explain. Under this Gate I was again to give my Name, which was this last time written down in a little Vellum-Book, and immedi­ately with the rest dispatched to the Lord Bridegroom. Here it was where I first received the true Guest-token, which was somewhat less than the for­mer, but yet much heavier, upon this stood these Letters S. P. N. Besides this, a new pair of Shoes were given Salus per Naturan [...] Sponsi prae­s [...] ntandus Nuptijs. me, for the Floor of the Castle was laid with pure shining Marble; my old Shoes I was to give away to one of the Poor (whom I would) who sate in throngs, howbeit in very good order, under the Gate. I then bestowed them * Com [...] puer. on an old man: after which two Pages with as many Torches, conducted me into a litlte Room; there they willed me to sit down on a Form, which I did, but they sticking their Torches in two holes, made in the Pavement, departed and left me thus sitting alone. Soon after I heard a noise, but saw nothing, and it proved to be certain men who stumbled in upon me; but since I could [Page 32] see nothing, I was fain to suffer, and attend what they would do with me; but presently perceving them to be Barbers, I intreated them not to justle me [...] l [...] eatores. so, for I was content to do whatever they desired, whereupon they quickly let me go, and so one of them (whom I could not yet see) fine and gently cut away the Hair round about from the Capiliss deto [...] sus as­servatus. Crown of my Head, but on my Fore-head, Ears and Eyes he permitted my Ice­grey Locks to hang. In this first in­counter (I must confess) I was ready to dispair, for inasmuch as some of them shoved me so forceably, and I could yet see nothing, I could think no other but that God for my Curiosity had suffered me to miscarry. Now these invisible Barbers carefully gathered up the Hair which was cut off, and carried it away with them. After which the two Pages Pueri bini. entred again, and heartily laughed at me for being so terrified. But they had scarce spoken a few Words with me, when again a little Bell began to ring; which (as the Pages informed me) was to give notice for assembling; whereupon they willed me to rise, and through many Walks, Doors and winding [Page 33] Stairs lighted me into a spacious Triclinium. Hall. In this Room was a great mul­titude of guests, Emperors, Kings, Princes, and Lords, Noble and Ignoble, Rich, and Poor, and all sorts of Peo­ple, at which I hugely marviled, and thought to my self, ah, how gross a fool hast thou been to ingage upon this Journey with so much bitterness and toil, when (behold) here are even those fellows whom thou well know'st, and yet hadst never any reason to esteem. They are now all here, and thou with all thy Prayers and Supplications art hardly got in at last. This and more the Devil at that time injected, whom I notwithstanding (as well as I could) directed to the issue. Mean time one or other of my acquaintance here and there spake to me: Oh Brother Rosencreutz! art thou here too; yea, (my Brethren) replyed I, the Grace of God hath helped me in also; at which they raised a mighty laughter, looking upon it as ridiculous that there should be need of God in so slight an Impietas hospi [...] m non re [...] via [...] ­sorum▪ occasion. Now having demanded each of them concerning his way, and found that most were forced to clamber over [Page 34] the Rocks, certain Trumpets (none of which we yet savv) began to sound to the Table, whereupon they all seated themselves, every one as he judged himself above the rest; so that for me and some other sorry▪ Fellows there was hardly a little Nook left at the lower­most Table. Presently the two Pages entred, and one of them said Grace in so handsom and excellent a manner, as rejoyced the very Heart in my Body. Quidam preces neg­ligunt. Howbeit, certain great Sr John's made but little reckoning of them, but f [...] eired and winked one at another, biting their Lips within their Hats, and using more the like unseemly Gestures. After this Commessa­tio. Meat was brought in, and albeit none could be seen▪ yet every thing was so orderly managed, that it seemed to me as if every Guest had had his pro­per Ministri invisibiles. Attendant. Now my Artists ha­ving somewhat recruted themselves, and the Wine having a little removed Inebriato­rum glori [...] ­ [...] io Vana. shame from their Hearts, they pre­sently began to vaunt and brag of their▪ Abilities▪ One would prove this, ano­ther that, and commonly the most sorry Idiots made the loudest noise. Ah, when I call to mind what preternatural [Page 35] and impossible enterprises I then heard, I am still ready to vomit at it. In fine, they never kept in their order, but when ever one Rascal here, another there, could insinuate himself in be­tween the Nobles; Then pretended they the finishing of such Adventures as neither Sampson, nor yet Hercules with all their strength could ever have at­chieved: This would discharge Atlas of his burden; The other would again draw forth the three-headed Cerberus out of Hell. In brief, every man had his own Prate, and yet the great Lords were so simple that they believed their pretences, and the Rogues so audacious, that although one or other of them was here and there rapped over the Fin­gers with a Knife, yet they flinched not at it, but when any one perchance had filched a Gold-Chain, then would all hazard for the like. I saw one who heard the rustling of the Heavens: The second could see Plato's Ideas: A third could number Democri [...] s's A­toms. There were also not a few pre­tenders to the perpetual motion. Many an one (in my opinion) had good un­derstanding, but assumed too to much to [Page 36] himself; to his own destruction. Last­ly, there was one also who would needs out of hand perswade us that he saw the Servitors who attended, and would still have pursued his Con­tention, had not one of those invisible waiters reached him so handsom a cuff M [...] nistri in­visibiles. upon his lying Muzzle, that not only he, but many who were by him, be­came as mute as Mice. But it best of all pleased me, that all those, of whom I had any esteem, were very quiet in their business, and made no loud cry of it, but acknowledged themselves to be mis-understanding men, to whom the Modastia Proborum hospitum. mysteries of Nature were too high, and they themselves much too small. In this Tumult I had almost cursed the day wherein I came hither; For I could not but with anguish behold that those lewd vain People were above at the Board, but I in so sorry a place could not, how­ever rest in quiet, one of these Rascals scornfully reproaching me for a motly Fool. Now I thought not that there was yet one Gate behind, through which we must pass, but imagined I was du­ring the whole Wedding, to continue in this scorn, contempt and indignity, [Page 37] which yet I had at no time deserved, either of the Lord Bride-groom or the Bride; And therefore (in my opinion) he should have done well to have sought out some other Fool to his Wedding than me. Behold, to such impatience doth the Iniquity of this World reduce Impatie [...] ­tia ex ini­quitate ho­mioum. simple hearts. But this really was one part of my Lameness, whereof (as is before mentioned) I dreamed. And truly this clamour the longer it lasted, the more it increased. For there were already those who boasted of false and imaginary Visions, and would per­swade us of palpably lying Dreams▪ Now there sate by me a very fine quiet Man, who oftentimes discoursed Assessor mo­destus. of excellent matters, at length he said, Behold my Brother, if any one should now come who were willing to instruct these blockish People in the right way, would he be heard? No, verily, replyed I. The world, said he, is now resolved (what­ever Mundus vult decipi. comes on it) to be cheated, and can­not abide to give Ear to those who intend its good. Seest thou also that same Cocks-Comb, with what whimsical Figures and foolish Conceits he allures others to him. There one makes Mouthes at the People with [Page 38] unheard of Mysterious Words. Yet be­lieve me in this, the time is non coming when those shameful Vizards shall be plucked off, and all the World shall know what Va­gabond Imposters were concealed behind them. Then perhaps that will be valued which at present is not esteemed. Whilst he was thus speaking, and the clamour the longer it lasted, the worse it was, all on a suddain there began in the Hall such excellent and stately Musick, as M [...]si [...]. all the days of my Life I never heard the like; whereupon every one held his peace, and attended what would be­come of it: Now there were in this Musick all sorts of stringed Instruments imaginable, which sounded together in such harmony, that I forgot myself, and sate so unmovably, that those who sate by me were amazed at me, and this lasted near half an hour, wherein none of us spake one word, For as soon as ever any one was about to open his Mouth, he got an unex­pected [...] blow, neither knew he from whence it came: Me thought since we were not permitted to see the Musi­tians. I should have been glad to view only all the Instruments they made use [Page 39] of. After half an hour this Musick ceased unexpectly, and we could nei­ther see nor hear any thing further. Presently after, before the Door of the Hall began a great noise sound­ing and beating of Trumpets, Shalms and Kettle-Drums, also Master-like, as if the Emperor of Rome had been entring: whereupon the Door open­ed of it self, and then the noise of the Trumpets was so loud, that we were Faculae ad lectum. hardly able to indure it. Mean while (to my thinking) many thousand small Tapers) came into the Hall, all which of themselves marched in so very exact an order as altogether amazed us, till at last the two fore-mentioned Pages Virgo Luci­fera. The Lady Chamber­lain or Con­troulor. with bright Torches, lighting in a most beautiful Virgin, all drawn on a gloriously gilded Triumphant Self­moving Throne, entred the Hall. It seemed to me she was the very same who before on the way kindled, and put out the Lights, and that these her Attendants were the very same whom she formerly placed at the Trees. She Albedo was not now as before in Skye-colour, but arrayed in a snow-white glittering Robe, which sparkled of pure Gold, [Page 40] and cast such a lustre that we durst not steadily behold it. Both the Pages were after the same manner habited (albeit somewhat more slightly; as soon as they were come into the middle of the Hall, & were descended from the Throne, all the small Tapers made obei­sance before her: Whereupon we all stood up from our Benches, yet every one staid in his own place. Now she having to us, and we again to her, shew­ed all Respect and Reverence; in a most pleasant Tone she began thus to speak;

[Page 41]Hereupon with all her small Ta­pers she again courteoussy bowed, and presently after began thus:

As soon as she had done speaking this, she again made reverence, and sprung chearfully into her Throne, af­ter which the Trumpets began again to sound, which yet was not of force to take from many their grievous Sighs [Page 43] So they again conducted her invisibly away, but the most part of the small Tapers remained in the Room, and still one of them accompanied each of us. In such perturbation 'tis not well pos­sible to express what pensive Thoughts and Gestures were amongst us. Yet the most part resolved to await the Scale, and in case things sorted not well, to depart (as they hoped) in peace. I had soon cast up my reckoning, Autor humi­liat [...] and being my Conscience convinced me of all ignorance, and unworthiness, I purposed to stay with the rest in the Hall, and chose much rather to con­tent my self with the Meal I had alrea­dy taken, than to run the Risco of a future repulse. Now after that every one by his small Taper had severally been conducted into a Chamber (each as I since understood into a peculiar one) There staid nine of us, and amongst the rest he also, who discoursed with me before at the Table. But although our small Tapers left us not, yet soon after within an hours time one of the fore-mentioned Pages came in, and bringing a great bundle of Cords with him, first demanded of us whe­ther [Page 44] we had concluded to stay there, which when we had with Sighs affirm­ed, he bound each of us in a several place, and so went away with our small Pernoctatio tristis Tapers, and left us poor Wretches in Darkness. Then first began some to perceive the imminent danger, and I my self could not refrain Tears. For although we were not forbidden to speak, yet anguish and affliction suffer­ed none of us to utter one word. For the Cords were so wonderfully made, yet none could cut them, muchless get them off his Feet: yet this comforted me, that still the future gain, of many an one, who had now betaken himself to rest, would prove very little to his satisfaction. But we by one only Nights Pennance might expiate all our pr [...]sumption: till at length in my sor­rowful thoughts I fell asleep; during which I had a Dream; Now although Somnium [...]ypicum. there be no great matter in it, yet I esteem it not impertient to recount it: Me thought I was upon an high Moun­tain, and saw before me a great & large Valley, in this Valley were gather­ed What will be the Issue of the pro­batory beam. He that climbs high hath a great fall. together an unspeakable multitude of People, each of which had at his [Page 45] Head a Thread, by which he was hang­ed up towards Heaven, now one hung high, another low, some stood even quite upon the Earth. But in the Air there flew up and down an ancient Man, who had in his hand a pair of Shoers, wherewith here he cut one's, and there another's thread. Now he that was nigh the Earth was so much the readier, & fall without noise, but when it happened to one of the high ones, he fell, so that the Earth quaked. To some it came to pass that their Thread was so stretched, that they came to the Earth before the Thread was cut. I took pleasure in this tumbling, and it joyed me at the Heart, when he who had over-exalted himself in the Air, of his Wedding, got so shameful a fall, that it carried even some of his Neigh­bours along with him. In like manner it also rejoiced me, that he who had all this while kept himself near the Earth, could come down so fine and gently, that even his next men perceived it not. But being now in my highest fit of Jol­lity, I was unawares jogged by one of my fellow Captives, upon which I Experg [...]. was awaked, and was very much dis­contented [Page 46] with him; Howbeit, I con­sidered my Dream, and recounted it to my Brother, who lay by me on the other side; who was not dissatisfied with it, but hoped some Comfort might thereby be pretended. In such discourse we spent the remaining part of the Night, and with longing exspected the Day.

The Third Day.

NOw as soon as the lovely day was broken, and the bright Sun, ha­ving raised himself above the Hills, had again betaken himself, in the high Heaven, to his appointed office; My good Champions began to rise out of their Beds, and leisurely to make them­selves ready unto the Inquisition. Whereupon, one after another, they came again into the Hall, and giving Colloquium sur [...]entium. us a good morrow, demanded how we had Slept to Night; and having espied our Bonds, there were some that re­proved us for being so cowardly, and that we had not (much rather) as they, [Page 47] hazarded upon all adventures. Howbe­it, some of them whose Hearts still smote them made no loud cry of the business. We excused our selves with our ignorance, hoping we should now soon be set at Liberty, and learn wit by this disgrace? that they on the con­trary had not yet altogether escaped, & perhaps their greatest danger was still to be expected: At length each one being again assembled, the Trumpets began Cantus. now again to sound & the Kettle Drums to beat as formerly, and we then ima­gined no other but that the Bride-groom was ready to present himself; which nevertheless was a huge mistake. For Virgo Lu­cifera. The Lady Chamber­lain or Con­troulor. it was again the yesterday's Virgin who had arrayed her self all in red Velvet, and girded her self with a white Scarfe. Upon her Head she had a green Wreath of Laurel, which hugely became her. Her train was now no more of small Tapers, but consisted of two hundred Men in Harnis, who were all (like her) cloathed in red and white. Now as soon as they were alighted from the Throne, she comes streight to us Pri­soners, and after she had Saluted us, she said in few words; That some of [Page 48] you have been sensible of your wretch­ed condition is hugely pleasing to my most mighty Lord, and he is also re­solved you shall fare the better for it; Solatur humiles. And having espied me in my Habit, she laughed and spake, good lack! hast thou also submitted thy self to the Yoke, I imagined thou wouldst have made thy self very smug; with which Words she caused my Eyes to run over. After which she commanded we should be unbound, and cuppled together and placed in a station where we might well behold the Scales. For, said she, it may yet fare better with them, than with the Presumptious, who yet stands here at Liberty. Mean time the Scales which were intirely of Gold were hung Libra au­rca. up in the midst of the Hall; There was also a little Table covered with red Velvet, and seven weights placed thereon. 7. Pondera First of all stood a pretty great one, next four little ones; lastly, two great ones severally; And these Weights in proportion to their bulk were so heavy, that no man can believe or comprehend Satellites. it: But each of the Harnised men had together with a naked Sword a strong rope; These she distributed according [Page 49] to the number of Weights into seven bands, [...]and out of every band chose one for their proper weight; and then again sprung up into her high Throne. Now as soon as she had made her reve­rence, with a very Shrill Tone she be­gan thus to speak:

As soon as the Virgin had done speak­ing, Ponderan­tur Art [...] ­ce [...]. one of the Pages commanded each one to place himself according to his order, and one after another to step in: which one of the Emperors 1. Caes [...]. [Page 50] made no scruple of, but first of all bowed himself a little towards the Virgin, and afterwards in all his state­ly Attire went up: where upon each Captain laid in his weight; which (to the wonder of all) he stood out. But the last was too heavy for him, so that forth he must; and that with such an­guish that (as it seemed to me) the Vir­gin her self had pitty on him, who also beckned to her people to hold their peace, yet was the good Emperor bound and delivered over to the Sixth band. Next him again came forth ano­ther Emperor, who stept hautily into [...]. the Scale, and having a great thick Book [...] under his Gown, he imagined not to fail; But being scarce able to abide the third weight, and being unmercifully slung down, and his Book in that af­frightment slipping from him, all the Soldiers began to laugh, and he was delivered up bound to the third band. Thus it went also with some others of [...] the Emperors, who were all shameful­ly laughed at and captived. After these comes forth a little short Man with a curld brown Beard an Emperor too, [...] who after the usual reverence got up [Page 51] also, and held out so steadfastly, that me thought, had there been more weights ready, he would have out­stood them; To whom the Virgin im­mediately arose, and bowed before him, causing him to put on a Gown of red Velvet, and at last reached him a branch of Lawrel, having good store of them upon her Throne, upon the steps whereof she willed him to sit down. Now how, after him it fared with the rest of the Emperors, Kings and Lords, would be too long to re­count; but I cannot leave unmentioned that few of those great▪ personages held out. Howbeit sundry eminent vertues (beyond my hopes) were found in ma­ny. One could stand out this, the second another, some two, some three, four or five, but few could attain to the just perfection; But every one who failed, was miserably laughed at by the bands. After the Inquisition had also passed over the Gentry, the learned, and un­learned, and the rest, and in each con­dition perhaps one, it may be, two, but for the most part none, was found perfect, it came at length to those honest Gentlemen the vagabond Chea­ters, [...] [Page 52] and rascally Lapidem Spitalausicum makers, who were set upon the Scale with such scorn, that I my self for all my grief was ready to burst my Belly with laughing, neither could the very Prisoners themselves refrain. For the most part could not abide that severe trial, but with Whips and Scourges were jerked out of the Scale, and led to the other Prisoners, yet to a suite­able band. Thus of so great a throng so few remained, that I am ashamed to discover their number. Howbeit there were Persons of quality also amongst them, who notwithstanding Notales [...] ­hilominus o [...]antur. were (like the rest) honoured with Velvet Robes and wreaths of Law­rel.

The Inquisition being compleatly fi­nished, and none but we poor coupled hounds standing aside; At length one of the Captains stepped forth, and said, Gratious Madam, if it please your Ladyship let these poor men, who ac­knowledged their mis-understanding, be set upon the Scale also without their incurring any danger of penalty, and only for recreation's sake, if perchance any thing that is right may be found [...] [Page 53] amongst them. In the first place I was in great perplexity, for in my an­guish this was my only comfort, that I was not to stand in such ignominy, or to be lashed out of the Scale. For I nothing doubted but that many of the Prisoners wished that they had stay'd ten Nights with us in the Hall. Yet since the Virgin consented, so it must be, and we being untied were one af­ter another set up: Now although the most part miscarried, yet they were neither laught at, nor scourged, but peaceably placed on one side. My Socius Auto­ris. Companion was the fifth, who held out bravely, whereupon all, but especially the Captain who made the request for us, applauded him, and the Virgin shewed him the usual respect. After him again two more were dispatched in an instant. But I was the eighth; Now as soon as (with trembling) I A [...]tor 8 stepped up, my Companion who alrea­dy sat by in his Velvet, looked friendly upon me, and the Virgin her self smi­led a little. But for as much as I out­stayed all the Weights, the Virgin com­manded them to draw me up by force, wherefore three men moreover hung on [Page 54] the otherside of the Beam, and yet could nothing prevail. Whereupon one of the Pages immediately stood up, and cryed out exceeding loud, THAT's HE: Upon which That's he. the other replyed; Then let him▪ gain his Liberty, which the Virgin accorded; and being received with due Ceromo­nies, The choice was given me to re­lease one of the Captives, whosoever I Probatissi­ [...]. pleased; Whereupon▪ I made no long deliberation, but elected the first Em­peror Liberat 1. Caesa­rem. whom I had long pittied, who was immediately set free, and with all respect seated amongst us. Now the last being set up, and the Weights proving too heavy for him, in the mean while the Virgin espied my Roses, which I had taken out of my Hat into my Autor rosam s [...]am donat Virgini. Hands, and thereupon presently by her Page graciously requested them of me, which I readily sent her. And so this first Act was finished about ten in the Hora 10. A [...]us. fore-noon. Whereupon the Trumpets began to sound again, which neverthe­less we could not as yet see. Mean time the Bands were to step aside with their Prisoners, and expect the Judg­ment. After which a Council of the [Page 55] seven Captains and us was set, and the business was propounded by the Virgin as President▪ who desired each one to give his opinion, how the Prisoners were to be dealt with. The first opinion Judicium de reprobatis. was, That they should all be put to Death, yet one more severely than ano­ther: namely those who had presump­tuously Vo [...]um 1. intruded themselves contrary to the Express conditions; others would have them kept close prisoners. Both Vo [...]um 2. which pleased neither the President, nor me. At length by one of the Emperors (the same whom I had freed) my Com­panion, and my self the affair was brought to this point; That first of▪ the principal Lord's should with a be­fitting [...]. respect be led out of the Castle; others might be carried out somewhat [...] more scornfully. These should, be stripped, and caused to run out naked; The fourth with Rods, Whips, or Dogs, should be hunted out. Those who the day before willingly surren­dred themselves, might be suffered to depart without any blame, And last of all those Presumptuous ones, and they who behaved themselves so unseemly at Dinner the day before, should be pun­ished [Page 56] in Body and Life according to each Mans demerle. This opinion pleased the Virgin well, and obtained the up­per hand. There was moreover ano­ther Dinner vouchsafed them, which they were soon acquainted with. But the Execution was deferred till twelve at noon, Here with the Senate arose, and the Virgin also, together with her. Atten­dants returned to her usual quarter. But the uppermost Table in the Room was allotted to us, they requesting us to take it in good part till the Business were fully dispatched. And then we should he conducted to the Lord Bride­groom and the Bride, with which we were at present well content. Mean time the Prisoners were again brought into the Hall, and each Man seated accord­ing Prandium. to his Quality; they were likewise enjoyned to behave themselves some­what more civilly than they had done the day before, which yet they needed nor to have been admonished, for (with­out this, they had already put up their pipes. And this I can boldly say, not with flattery, but in the love of truth, that commonly those persons who were of the highest R [...]k, best understood how [Page 57] to behave themselves in so unexpected a misfourtune. Their Treatment was but indifferent, yet with respect, nei­their Ministri invisibiles▪ Visibiles. could they yet see their Attendants but to us they were visible, whereas I was exceeding joyful. Now altough Fourtune had exalted us, yet we took not upon us more than the rest, advi­sing them to be of good Cheer, the event would not be so ill. Now al­though they would gladly have under­stood the Sentence of us, yet we were so deeply obliged that none durst open his Mouth about it. Nevertheless we comforted them as well as we could, drinking with them to try if the Wine might make them any thing cheerfuller. Proborum Exaltatio. Our Table was covered with red Vel­vet, beset with drinking-Cups of pure Silver and Gold; which the rest could not behold without amazement and ve­ry great anguish. But e're we had seated our selves, in came the two Pages, presenting every one in the Bride­groom's behalf, the Golden Fleece with a flying Lyon, requesting us to wear them [...] a Sp [...] so. at the Table, and as became us, to observe the Reputation and Dignity of the Order, which his Majesty had now [Page 58] vouchsafed us, and should suddenly be ratified with sutable Ceremonies. This we received with profoundest submis­sion, promising obediently to perform whatsoever his Majesty should please. Besides these, the noble Page had a Schedule, wherein we were set down in order. And for my part I should not otherwise be desirous to conceal my place, if perchance it might not be interpreted to Pride in me, which yet is expresly against the fourth▪ Weight. Now because our entertainment was exceeding stately, we demanded one of the Pages, whether we might not have leave to send some choice bit to our Friends and Acquaintance, who making no difficulty of it, every one sent plentifully to his acquaintance by the waiters, howbeit they saw none of them; and forasmuch as they knew not whence it came, I was my self desirous to carry somewhat to one of them, Autori de­ne [...]atur communica­tio erga re­pro [...]. but as soon as I was risen, one of the Waiters was presently at my Elbow, saying, He desired me to take friendly warning, for in case one of the Pages had seen it, it would have come to the King's Far, who would, certainly have taken it [Page 59] amiss of me; but since none had observed it but himself, he purposed not to betray me, but that I ought for the time to come to have better regard to the dignity of the order: With which words the Ser­vant did really so astonish me, that for a long time after I scarce moved upon my Seat▪ yet I returned him Thanks for his faithful warning, as well as in haste and affrightment I was able. Soon after the Drums began to beat again, to which we were already ac­customed: For we well knew it was the Virgin, wherefore we prepared our selves to receive her who was now coming in with her usual [...] Virgo Luci­fera The Lady Chamber­lain or Con­troulor. her high Seat, one of the Pages bea [...] ing before her a very tall Goblet of Gold. And the other, a Patent in Parchment: Being now after a mar­vellous artificial manner alighted from the Seat, she takes the Goblet from the Page, and presents the same in the King's behalf, saying, That it was brought us from his Majesty, and that in honour of [...]ir Oba [...]nb [...] him we should c [...]se [...]it to go round. Upon the cover of this Goblet stood Fortune curiously cast in Gold, who had in her Hand a red flying Ensign; for which [Page 60] cause I drunk somewhat the more sad­ly, as having been but too well acquaint­ed with Fortune's way-wardness. But the Virgin as well as we, was adorn­ed with the Golden Fleece and Lyon, Ornatus Vir­ginis whence I observed, that perhaps she was the president of the Order. Where­fore we demanded of her how the Or­der might be named? she answered, That it was not yet seasonable to dis­cover it, till the affair with the Pri­soners were dispatched. And there­fore their Eyes were still held; and what had hitherto happened to us, was to them only for an Offence and Scan­dal, although it were to be accounted as nothing, in regard of the honour that attended us. Hereupon she began to distinguish the Patent which the other Page held into two different parts, out Reprobí [...] of which about thus much was read before the first company.

That they should confess that they had Accusatio [...]. too lightly given Credit to false fictitions Books, had assumed too much to them­selves, and so came into this Castle, albeit they were never invited into it, and per­haps the most part had presented themselves with design to make their Markets here▪ [Page 61] and afterwards to live in the greater Pride Affectibus Mandaois and Lordliness; And thus one had sedu­ced another, and plunged him into this dis­grace and ignominy, wherefore they were deservedly to be soundly punished.

Which they with great humility rea­dily acknowledged, and gave their Hands upon it. After which a severe check was given to the rest, much to this purpose.

That they very well knew, and were in Alterius partis. their Consciences convinced, that they had forged false fictitious Books, had befooled others, and cheated them, and thereby had diminished Regal dignity amongst all. They knew in like manner what ungodly acceit­ful Figures they had made use of, in so much as they spared not even the Divine Trinity, but accustomed themselves to cheat People all the Country over. It was also now as clear as Day with what Practices they had indeavoured to ensnare the true Guests, and introduce the Ignorant: in like manner, that it was manifest to all the World, that they wallowed in open Whore­dom, Adultery, Gluttony, and other Ʋn­cleannesses: All which was against the ex­press Orders of our Kingdom. In brief, they knew they had disparaged Kingly Ma­jesty, [Page 62] even amongst the common sort, and therefore they should confess themselves to be manifest convicted Vagabond-Chea­ters, Knaves and Rascals, whereby they desorved to be cashiered from the company of civil People, and severely to be punished. The good Artists were loath to come Confessio [...]vita. to this Confession, but inasmuch as not only the Virgin her self threatned, and sware their death; but the other party also vohemently raged at them, and unanimously cryed out, that they had most wickedly seduced them out of the Light: They at length, to prevent a huge misfortune, confessed the same with dolour, and yet withal alledged that what had herein happened was not to be animadverted upon them in the worst sense. For in as much as the [...]rousatio Lords were absolutely resolved to get into the Castle, and had promised great sums of Money to that effect, each one had used all Craft to seize upon some­thing, and so things were brought to that pass, as was now manifest before their Eyes. But that it succeeded not, ‘ They in their opinion had dis-deserved no more than the Lords themselves; As who should have had so much under­standnig [Page 63] as to consider that in case any one had been sure of getting in, he would not, in so great Peril, for the sake of a slight gain, have clambered over the Wall with them.’ Their Books also sold so mightily, that who­ever had no other mean to maintain himself, was fain to ingage in such a Coufenage. They hoped moreover, that if a right Judgement were made, they should be found no way to have miscarried, as having behaved them­selves towards the Lords, as became Servants, upon their earnest entreaty. But answer was made them, that his Refutan [...] Royal Majesty had determined to pu­nish all, and every man, albeit one more severely than another. For al­though what had been alledged by them was partly true, and therefore the Lords should not wholly be indulged, yet they had good reason to prepare them­selves for Death, who had so presump­tuously obtruded themselves, and per­haps seduced the more ignorant against their will; As likewise they who with false Books had violated Royal Majesty, as the same might be evinced out of their very Writings and Books

[Page 64]Hereupon many began most pitteously Dolor de sententia. to lament, cry, weep, intreat, and pro­strate themselves, all which notwith­standing could avail them nothing, and I much marvelled how the Virgin could be so resolute; when yet their misery caused our Eyes to run over, and moved our Compassion (although the most part of them had procured us much trouble, and vexation) For she pre­sently dispatched her Page, who brought with him all the Curiassiers which had this day been appointed at the Scales, who were commanded each of them to take his own to him, and in an orderly Procession, so as still each Curiassier should go with one of the Prisoners, to Executio Sententia­rum. conduct them into her great Garden. At which time each one so exactly re­cognised his own Man, that I marvel­led at it. Leave also was likewise gi­ven to my yesterday Companions to go out into the Garden unbound, and to be present at the Execution of the Sen­tence. Now as soon as every Man Spectatores. was come forth, the Virgin mounted up into her High Throne, requesting us to sit down upon the Steps, and to ap­pear at the Judgment, which we refused [Page 65] not, but left all standing upon the Ta­ble (except the Goblet, which the Vir­gin committed to the Pages keeping) and went forth in our Robes upon the Throne, which of it self moved so gent­ly as if we had passed in the Air, [...]ll in this manner we came into the Garden, where we arose altogether. This Gar­den Hortos. was not extraordinary curious; on­ly it pleased me that the Trees were planted in so good order. Besides there ran in it a most costly Fountain, adorn­ed with wonderful Figures and Inscrip­tions, Author pro­mittit alta librum. and strange Characters, (which▪ God willing I shall mention in a future Book) In this Garden was raised a wooden Scaffold, hung about with d [...] ­rionsly painted figured Coverlets, Now there were four Galleries made one over another, the first was more glorious than any of the rest, and therefore covered with a white-Taffata Curtain, so that at that time we could not perceive who was behind it. The second was empty and uncovered. Again the two last were covered with red and blew Taf­fata. Now as soon as we were come to the Scaffold, the Virgin bowed her self down to the ground, at which we [Page 66] were mightily terrified: For we might easily guess that the King and Queen must not be far off; Now we also ha­ving duely performed our Reverence, The Virgin lead us up by the winding Stairs into the second Gallery, where she placed her self uppermost, and us in our former order. But how the Empe­ror whom I had released, behaved him­self towards me, both at this time, as Gratítudo Caesaris erga liberatorem. also before at the Table, I cannot, without slander of wicked Tongues, well relate. For he might well imagine in what Anguish and Sollicitude he now should have been, in cafe he were at present to attend the Judgment with such ignominy, and that only through me he had now attained such Dignity Praecomissa. and Worthiness. Mean time the Vir­gin who first of all brought me the In­vitation, and whom hither to I had ne­ver since seen, stepped in; First she gave one blast upon her Trumpet, and then with a very loud Voice declared the Sentence in this manner.

[Page 70] Herewith our Virgin broke her Wand, and the other who read the Sentence, blowed her Trumpet, and stepped with most profound Reverence towards those Finis habiti [...] who stood behind the Curtain. But here I cannot omit to discover some­what to the Reader concerning the number of our Prisoners; of whom those who weighed one, were seven; those who weighted two, were twenty one; they [...]mm [...] pon­ [...]orum. 7. 21. 35. 35. [...]. [...]1. 130. 125. who three, thirty five; they who four, thirty five; those who five, twenty one; those who six, seven; but he that came to the seventh, and yet could not well raise it, He, was only one, and indeed the same whom I released. Besides, of them who wholly sailed there were ma­ny: But of those who drew all the weights from the ground, but few. And these as they stood severally before us, so I diligently numbred, and noted them down in my Table-Book; And it Va [...] is very admirable that amongst all those who weighed any thing, none was equal to another. For although amongst those who weighed three, there were thirty five, yet one of them weighed the first, second, and third, another the third, fourth, and fifth, a thrid, the fifth, [Page 71] sixth, and seventh and so on. It is likewise very wonderful that amongst one hundred twenty six who weighed any thing, none was equal to another; And I would very willingly name them all, with each Mans weight, were it not as yet forbidden me. But I hope it may hereafter be published with the In­terpretation.

Now this Judgment being read over, the Lords in the first place were well Reorum mo­res. satisfied, because in such severity they durst not look for a mild sentence. For which cause they gave more than they were desired, and each one redeemed himself with Chains, Jewels, Gold, Monies and other things, as much as they had about them; and with reve­rence took leave. Now although the King's Servants were forbidden to jear any at his going away, yet some un­lucky Ministrorum mores. Birds could not hold laughing, and certainly it was sufficiently ridicu­lous to seo them pack away with such speed, without once looking behind them. Some desired that the promised Catalogue might with the first be dis­patched after them, and then they would take such order with their Books [Page 72] as should be pleasing to his Majesty; which was again assured. At the Door Haustus oblivionis. was given to each of them out of a Cup a Draught of FORGETFƲLNESS, that so he might have no further me­mory of misfortune.

After these the Voluntiers departed, who because of their ingenuity were suffered to pass but yet so as never to return again in the same fashion; But if to them (as likewise to the others) any thing further were revealed, then they should be well-come Guests.

Mean while others were stripping, in Damnati. which also an inequality (according to each mans demerit) was observ'd. Some were sent away naked, without other hurt. Others were driven out with small Bells▪ Some were scourged forth. In brief the punishments were so vari­ous, that I am not able to recount them all. In the end it came to the last also with whom somewhat a longer time was spent, for whilst some were hang­ing, some beheading, some forced to leap into the Water, and the rest other­wise dispatching, much time was con­surned. Verily at this execution my Eyes ran over, not indeed in regard of [Page 73] the punishment, which they otherwise for their impudency well desurved, but in contemplation of humane blind­ness, in that we are continually busi­ing our selves in that which ever since the first Fall hath been hitherto Sealed [...] ­tionis expo­sitio. upto us. Thus the Garden which so lately was quite full, was soon empti­ed; so that besides the Souldiers there was not a man left. Now as soon as this was done, and silence had been kept for the space of five minut's; There Entertain­ment at Night. Unicorca. came forward a beautiful snow- white Ʋnicorn with a golden coller (having in it certain Letters) about his neck: In the same place he bowed himself down upon both his fore-feet, as if hereby he had shown honour to the Lyon, who Leo. stood so immoveably upon the foun­tain, that I took him to be of stone or brass, who immediately took the naked Sword which he bare in his Paw, Mathaera. and brake it in the middle in two, the pieces whereof to my thinking sunk in­to the Fountain: after which he so long roared, until a white-Dove brought a Columba. branch of Olive in her bill, which the Lyon devoured in an instant, and so was quieted. And so the Unicorn returned [Page 74] to his place with joy. Hereupon our Virgin lead us down again by the win­ding staires from the Scaffold, and so we again made our reverence towards Discessus ab hoc actu. the Curtain. We were to wash our hands and heads in the Fountain, and there a little while to wait in our order, till the King through a certain secret Gallery were again returned into his Hall, and then we also with choice Musick, Pomp, State and pleasant dis­course were conducted into our former lodging: And this was done about four in the afternoon. But that in the mean­while the time might not seem too long to us, the Virgin bestowed on each of us a noble Page, who were not only richly habited, but also exceeding learned, so that they could so aptly discourse upon all subjects, that we had good reason to be ashamed of our selves. These were commanded to lead us up Discessus virginis Lu­ciferae. and down the Castle (yet but into cer­tain places) and if possible, to shorten the time according to our desire. Mean time the Virgin took leave with this consolation, that at Supper she would be with us again, and after that cele­brate the Ceremonies of the hanging up [Page 75] of the Weights, requesting that we would in patience waite till the next day, for on the morrow we must be presented to the King. She being thus Hospitum modi in de­lectamentis. departed from us, each of us did what best pleased him. One part viewed the excellent paintings, which they copied out for themselves, and consi­dered also what the wonderful Cha­racters might signifie. Others were fain to recruit themselves again with meat and drink. I indeed caused my Page to conduct me (together with my Companion) up and down the Castle, of which walk it will never repent me Autoris. as long as I have a day to live. For besides many other glorious Antiqui­ties, the Royal Sepulcher was also shew­ed me, by which I learned more than is extant in all Books. There in the same place stands also the glorious Phaenix (of which two years since I Libellus de Phaenice. published a particular small discourse) And am resolved (in case this my nar­ration shall prove useful) to set forth several and peculiar Treatises, con­cerning the Lyon, Eagle, Griffon, Fal­con and other like, together with their Draughts and Inscriptions. It grieves [Page 76] me also for my other Consorts, that they neglected such pretious Treasures. And yet I cannot but think it was the special will of God it should be so. I indeed reaped the most benefit by my Page, for according as each ones genius lay, so he led his intrusted into the quarters and places which were pleasing to him. Now the Kyes hereunto be­longing Usus eorum quae Autor vidit. were committed to my Page, and therefore this good Fortune hap­ned to me before the rest; For although he invited others to come in, yet they imagining such Tombs to be only in the Church-yard, thought they should well enough get thither, when ever a­ny thing was to be seen there. Neither shall these Monuments (as both of us co­pied and transcribed them) be with­held from my thankful Schollars. The other thing that was shewed us two was the Noble Library as it was altogether before the Reformation. Of which (al­beit [...]b [...]lotheca. it rejoyces my Heart as often as I call it to mind) I have so much the less to say, because the Catalogue thereof is very shortly to be published. At the entry of this Room stands a great Book, the like whereof I never saw, in which all the Figures, Rooms, Por­tals, [Page 77] also all the Writings, Riddles and the like, to be seen in the whole Castle, are delineated. Now although we have made some promise concerning this also, yet at present I must contain my self, and first learn to know the World better. In every Book stands its Author painted; whereof (as I understood) many were to be burnt, that so even their memory may be blotted out from amongst the Righteous. Now having taken a full view hereof, and being scorce getten forth, another▪ Page came running to us, and having whispered somewhat in our Pages ear, he delivered up the Kyes to him, who immediately carried them up the winding Stairs; But our Page was very much out of Countenance, and we setting hard upon him with Intrea­ties, He declared to us that the King's Majesty would by no means permit that either of the two, namely the Library and Sepulchers, should be seen by any Man and therefore he besought us as we tendered his Life, to discover it to no Man, he having already utterly denyed it: Whereupon both of us stood ho­vering between Joy and Fear, yet it con­tinued in silence, and no Man made fur­ther inquiry about it. Thus in both [Page 78] places we consumed three hours, which does not at all repent me. Now al­though it had already strucken Seven, yet nothing was hitherto given us to eat, howbeit our hunger was easie to be aba­ted by constant Revivings, and I could be well content to fast all my Life long Fastidium pulsum e­gregi [...]s spec­taculis. with such Entertainment. About this time the Curious Fountains, Mines, and all kind of Art-Shops, were also shown us, of which there was none but surpas­sed all our Arts, though they should all be melted into one Mass. All their Chambers were built in semi-circle, that Officinatum constituta­tum finis. so they might have before their Eyes the costly Clock-work which was erected upon a fair Turret in the Center, and regulate themselves according to the course of the Planets, which were to be seen on it in a glorious manner. And hence I could easily conjecture wherein our Artists failed, howbeit its none of my duty to inform them. At length I came into a spacoius Room (shown in­deed Globus ter­renus. to the rest a great while before) in the middle whereof stood a terestrial Globe, whose Diameter contained thirty Foot, albeit near half of it, except a little which was covered with the steps, [Page 79] was let into the Earth. Two Men might readily turn this Globe about with all its Furniture, so that more of it was never to be seen, but so much as was above the Horizon. Now although I could easily conceive that this was of some special use, yet could I not under­stand whereto those Ringlets of Gold (which were upon it in several places) served; At which my Page laughed, and advised me to view them more nar­rowly. In brief, I found there my na­tive Country noted with Gold also: Where­upon my Companion sought his, and found that so too. Now for as much as the same hapened in like mannot to the rest who stood by, The Page told us of a certain that it was yesterday decla­red to the Kings Majest'y by their old Atlas (so is the Astronomer named) that all the gilded points did exactly answer to their native Countries, according as had been shown of each of them. And therefore He also, as soon as he percei­ved that I undervalued my self, and that nevertheless there stood a point upon my na­tive Couutry, moved one of the Cap­tains to intreat for us, that we should be set upon the Scale (without our Pe­ril) [Page 80] at all Adventures; Especially see­ing one of our Native Countries had a notable good Mark: And truly it was not without cause that He, the Page who had the greatest power of all the rest, was bestowed on me. For this I then returned him thanks, and imme­diately looked more diligently upon my native Country, and found more over that besides the Ringlet, there were also certain delicate streaks upon it, which Excellentia Patriae Au­ [...]oris. nevertheless I would not be thought to speak to my own praise or glory. I saw much more too upon this Globe than I am willing to discover. Let each Man take into consideration why every City produceth not a Philosopher. After this he lead us quite into the Globe, which was thus made; On the Sea (there being a large square besides it) was a Tablet, whereon stood three Dedica­tions, and the Author's name, which a Man might gently lift up and by a lit­tle joyned Board, go into the Center, which was capable of four Persons, being nothing but a round Board where­on we could sit and at ease by broad­daylight Quid in [...]b (it was now already dark) contemplate the Stars, to my thinking [Page 81] they were mere Carbuncles which glit­tered in an agreeable order, and mo­ved so gallantly, that I had scarce any mind ever to go out again, as the Page afterwards told the Virgin, with which she often twitted me: For it was al­ready Supper time, and I had so much amused my self in the Globe, that I was almost the last at Table; wherefore I made no longer delay, but having a­gain put on my Gown (which I had be­fore Reverentia in convivi [...] exhibita Auctoris. layd aside) and stepping to the Table, the waiters treated me with so much reverence and honour, that for shame I durst not look up, and so una­wars permitted the Virgin, who atten­ded me on one side, to stand, which she soon perceiving twitched me by the Gown, and so led me to the table to speak any further concerning the Musick, or the rest of that magnificent entertainment, I hold it needless both because it is not possible sufficiently to express it, and I have above reported it according to my power. In brief, there was nothing there but Art and A­maenity. Now after we had each to other related our employment since [Page 82] noon (howbeit, not a word was spoken of the Library and Monuments) be­ing already merry with the Wine, the Virgin began thus: My Lords, I The Lady Chamber­lain or Con­trouler. have a great contention with one of my Sisters: In our Chamber we have an Eagle, Now we cherish him with such Perplexed Speeches, or intricate Questions. diligence, that each of us is disirous to be the best beloved, and upon that score have many a Squabble. On a day we concluded to go both together to him, and toward whom he should shew himself most friendly, hers should he properly be; this we did, and I (as commonly) bare in my hand a branch of Lawrel, but my Sister had none. Now as soon as he espyed us both, he immediately gave my Sister another branch which he had in his Beak, and offered at mine, which I gave him. Now each of us hereupon imagined her self to be best beloved of him; which way am I to resolve my self? This modest proposal of the Virgin pleased us all mighty well, and each one would gladly have heard the Solution, but in as much as they all looked upon me, and desired to have the beginning [Page 83] from me, my mind was so extreamly Autoris [...] griphus. confounded that I knew not what else to do with it but propound another in its stead, and therefore said Gracious Lady, your Ladyships question were easily to be resolved if one thing did not perplex me. I had two Compani­ons, The Authors counter-de­mand. both which loved me exceedingly; now they being doubtful which of them was most dear to me, concluded to run to me unawars, and that he whom I should then embrace should be the right; this they did, yet one of them could not keep pace with the other, so he staid behind and wept, the other I embraced with amazement. Now when they had afterwards discovered the business to me, I knew not how to resolve my self, and have hitherto let it rest in this manner, until I may find some good advice herein. The Virgin wondered at it, and well observed where about I was, whereupon she re­plied, well then let us both be quit; and then desired the solution from the rest. But I had already made them [...] wise. Wherefore the next began thus. In the City where I live, a Virgin was lately condemned to death, but the [Page 84] Judge being something pittiful towards [...] her, caused it to be proclaimed that if any Man desired to become the Virgins Champion, he should have free leave to do it. Now she had two Lovers, the one presently made himself ready, and came into the lists to expect his adversary, afterwards the other also presented himself, but coming some­what too late, he resolved never­theless to fight, and willingly suffer himself to be vanquished, that so the Virgin's life might be preserved, which also succeeded according. Whereup­on each challenged her: Now my Lords instruct me, to which of them of right be­longeth she? The Virgin could hold no longer, but said, I thought to have gain­ed much information, and am my self gotten into the Net, but yet would gladly hear whether there be any more behind▪ yes, that there is, answered the third, a Stranger adventure hath not been yet recounted then that which happened to my self. In my Youth I [...] loved a worthy Maid: Now that this my love might attain its wished end, I was fain to make use of an ancient Ma­ [...]on who easily brought me to her. Now [Page 85] it happened that the Maid's Brethren▪ came in upon us just as we three were together, who were in such a rage that they would have taken my Life, but up­on my vehement Supplication, they at length forced me to swear to take each of them for a Year, to my wedded Wife. Now tell me my Lords, should I take the old, or the young one first? We all laughed suffici­ently at this riddle, and though some of them muttered one to another there­upon, yet none would undertake to unfold it. Hereupon the fourth be­gan. In a certain City there dwelt an [...]. honourable Lady, who was beloved of all, but especially by a young noble Man, who would needs be too impor­tunate with her; at length she gave him this determination, that in case he would, in a cold Winter, lead her into a fair green Garden of Roses, then he should obtain, but if not, he must re­solve never to see her more. The no­ble Man travelled into all Countries to find such a Man as might perform this, till at length he lite upon a little old Man that promised to do it for him, in case he would assure him of half his Estate; which he having consented to▪ [Page 86] the other was as good as his word. Whereupon he invited the foresaid Lady home to his Garden, where con­trary to her expectation she found all things green, pleasant and warm, and withal remembring her promise, she only requested that she might once more return to her Lord, to whom with Signs and Tears she bewailed her lamentable condition: But for as much as he sufficiently perceived her faithful­ness, he dispatched her back to her Lo­ver, who had so dearly purchased her, that she might give him Satisfaction. This Husband's integrity did so migh­tily affect the noble man, that he thought it a sin to touch so honest a Wife; so he sent her home again with honour to her Lord. Now the little Man per­ceiving such Faith in both these, would not, how poor soever he were, be the least, but restored the noble Man all his Goods again, and went his way. Now (my Lords) I know not which of these persons may have shown the grea­test ingenuity? Here our Tongues were quite cut off. Neither would the Virgin make any other reply, but only that another should go on. Where­fore [Page 87] the fifth, without delay, began. [...]. 6. My Lords, I desire not to make long work; who hath the greater joy, he that beholdeth what he loveth, or he that only thinketh on it? He that be­holdeth it, said the Virgin; nay an­swered I; hereupon arose a contest, wherefore the sixth called out, My 7. Lords I am to take a Wife; now I have before me a maid, a married Wife, and a Widdow; ease me of this doubt, and I will afterwards help to order the rest. It goes well there, replyed the seventh, where a man hath 8. his choice, but with me the case is o­therwise; in my youth I loved a fair and vertuous Virgin from the bottom of my Heart, and she me in like man­ner: howbeit because of her Friends denyal we could not come together in wedlock: Whereupon she was married to another, yet an honest and discreet Person, who maintained her honoura­bly and with affection, until she came into the paines of Child-birth, which went so hard with her that all thought she had been dead, so with much state, and great mourning she was interred. Now I thought with my self, during [Page 88] her Life thou couldst have no part in this Woman, but yet now dead as she is thou mayst embrace and Kiss her sufficiently; whereupon I took my Servant with me, who dug her up by Night; Now having opened the Cossin and locked her in my Arms, and feel­ing about her Heart, I found still some little motion in it, which increased more and more from my warmth, till at last I perceived that she was indeed still alive; wherefore I quietly bare her home, and after I had warmed her chil­led Body with a costly Bath of Herbs, I committed her to my Mother until she brought forth a fair Son, whom (as the Mother) I caused faithfully to be nursed. After two days (she being then in a mighty amazement) I discovered to her all the forepassed affair, request­ing her that for the time to come she would live with me as a Wife, against which she thus excepted, in case it should be grievous to her Husband who had well and honourably maintained her. But if it could otherwise be, she was the present obliged in love to one as well as the other. Now after two Months (being then to make a Journey [Page 89] elsewhere) I invited her Husband as a Guest, and amongst other things de­manded of him, whether if his deceased Wife should come home again, he could be content to receive her, and he affirming it with Tears and Lamenta­tions, at length I brought him his Wife together with his Son, and an account of all the fore-passed business, intreat­ing him to ratifie with his consent my fore-purposed espousals. After a long dispute he could not beat me from my right, but was fain to leave me the Wife. But still the contest was about the Son. Here the Virgin interrupted him, and said, It makes me wonder how you could double the afflicted Mans grief. How, answered he, was I not then concerned? Upon this there arose a dispute amongst us, yet the most part affirmed that he had done but right. Nay, said he, I freely returned him both his Wife and Son. Now tell me (my Lords) was my honesty, or this Man's joy the greater? These words had so mightily cheared the Virgin that (as if it had been for the sake of these two) she caused a health to go round. After which the rest of the proposals [Page 90] wont on somewhat perplexedly, so that I could not retain them all, yet this comes to my mind, that one said, that a few years before he had 6. seen a Physitian, who bought a parcel of Wood against Winter, with which he warmed himself all Winter long; but as soon as the Spring returned he sold the very same Wood again, and so had the use of it for nothing; Here must needs be skill, said the Virgin, but the time is now past. Yea, replyed my Companion, who ever understands not how to resolve all the Riddles, may give each Man notice of it by a proper Messenger, I conceive he will not be denied. At this time they be­gan to say Grace, and we arose altoge­ther from the Table, rather satisfied and merry than glutted; and it were to be wished that all Invitations and Feast­ings were thus to be kept. Having now taken some few turns up and down the Hall again, the Virgin asked us whether The Lady Chamber­lain virg. Lucif. Gratiositas. we desired to begin the Wedding. Yes, said one, noble and vertuous La­dy; whereupon she privately dispatch­ed a Page, and yet in the mean time proceeded in discourse with us. In [Page 91] brief she was already become so fami­liar with us, that I adventured and re­quested her Name. The Virgin smiled at my Curiosity, but yet was not mo­ved, but replyed, My Name contains Aenigma de Nomine. five and fifty, and yet hath only eight Let­ters, the third is the third part of the fifth which added to the sixth will produce at Number, whose root shall exceed the third it self by just the first, and it is the half of the fourth. Now the fifth and the se­venth are equal, the last and the first are also equal, and make with the second as much as the sixth hath, which contains just four more than the third tripl'd. Now tell me, my Lord, how am I called? The answer was intricate enough to me, yet I left not off so, but said, noble and vertuous Lady, may I not obtain one only Letter? Yea (said she) that may well be done. What then (replyed I a­gain) may the seventh contain? It con­tains 60. Sc. quot Vir­gines. (said she) as many as there are Lords here. With this I was content, and easily found her Name, at which she was well Reddunter pondera choro Vir­ginum. pleased, with assurance that much more should yet be revealed to us. Mean time certain Virgins had made them­selves ready, and came in with great [Page 92] Ceremony. First of all two Youths 2. Juvenos. carried Lights before them, one of them was of a jocond Countenance, sprightly Eyes and gentile Proportion. The other lookt something angerly, whatever he would have, must be, as I afterwards perceived. After them first 4. Virgines. followed four Virgins; one looked shame-facedly towards the Earth, very humble in Behaviour; The second also was a modest, bashful Virgin; The third, as she entered the Room seem­ed amazed at somewhat, and as I un­derstood, she cannot well abide where there is too much Mirth. The fourth brought with her certain small wreaths, thereby to manifest her Kindness and Liberality. After these four came [...]. Virgine, two which were somewhat more glori­ously Apparelled; they saluted us cour­teously; One of them had a Gown of Skye coulour spangled with golden Stars; The others was green, beautifi­ed with red and white stripes. On their Heads they had thin flying Tif­faties, which did most becomingly adorn them. At last came one alone, who had on her head a Coronet, but rather look­ed 1. Virgo prae­stans. up towards Heaven, than towards [Page 93] Earth. We all thought it had been the the Bride, but were much mistaken, although otherwise in Honour, Riches and State she much surpassed the Bride; the Dutches. and she afterwards ruled the whole Wedding. Now on this occasion we all followed our Virgin, and fell down on our Knees, howbeit she shewed herself extream humble, offering every one her hand, and admonishing us not to be too much surprized at this, for this was one of her smallest Bounties, but to lift up our Eyes to our Creator, and learn here­by to acknowledge his Omnipotency▪ and so proceed in our enterprised course, employing this Grace to the praise of God, and the good of Man. In sum, her words were quite diffe­rent from those of our Virgin, who was somewhat more worldly. They pierced even through my Bones and Marrow. And thou, said she further to me, hast received more than others, [...] that thou also make a larger return. This to me was a very strange Sermon; for as soon as we saw the Virgins with the Musick, we immagined we must pre­sently fall to Dancing, but that time was not as yet come. Now the Weights, [Page 94] whereof mention hath been before Ponderum repositi in locum suum. made, stood still in the same place, wherefore the Queen (I yet knew not who she was) commanded each Virgin the Dutches. to take up one, but to our Virgin she gave her own, which was the last and greatest, and commanded us to follow behind; our Majesty was then some­what abated, for I well observed that our Virgin was but too good for us, & that we were not so highly reputed as we ourselves were almost in part willing to phantsie. So we went behind in our order, and were brought into the first Reginae habi­tatio. Chamber, where our Virgin in the first the Dutches. place hang up the Queen's weight, during which an excellent spiritual Hymn was Sung; there was nothing costly in this Room save only certain curious little Prayer Books which should never be missing. In the midst was erected a Supellex. Pulpit, very convenient for Prayer, where in the Queen kneeled down, about the Dutches. her we were all fain to kneel and pray after the Virgin, who read out of a Book, That this Wedding might tend to the Honour of God, and our own benefit. Afterwards we came into the second Chamber, where the first Virgin hung [Page 95] up her weight also, and so forward till all the Ceremonies were finished. Here­upon the Queen again presented her Hand to every one, and departed thence with her Virgin. Our Presi­dent Virgo Lucif discedit cubatum. staied yet a while with us. But because it had been already two hours night, she would no longer detain us; me thought she was glad of our Com­pany, yet she bid us good night, and wished us quiet rest, and so departed friendly, although unwillingly from us. Our Pages were well instructed in their Puerorum comitum Officium. business, and therefore shewed every Man his Chamber, and stayed also with us in another Pallet, that in case we wanted any thing we might make use of them. My Chamber (of the rest I am not able to speak) was royally furnish­ed Autoris thalamus. with rare Tapistries, and hung about with Paintings. But above all things I delighted in my Page, who was so excellently spoken, and experienced in the Arts, that he yet spent me another hour, and it was half an hour after three when first I fell asleep. And this indeed was the first night that I slept in quiet, and yet a scurvy Dream would not suf­fer me to rest; For I was all the night [Page 96] troubled with a Door which I could not Som [...]ium de portá difficili. get open, but at last I did it. With these phantasies I passed the time, till at length towards day I awaked.

The fourth Day.

I Still lay in my Bed, and leisurely Autor long­iuscule dor­miens ex­pergefit. survieghed all the noble Images and Figures up and down about my Chamber, during which on a sudden I heard the Musick of Coronets, as if they had been already in Procession. My Page skipped out of the Bed as if he had been at his wits end, and looked more like one dead than living; In what case I then was, is easily immagi­nable, for, said he, The rest are already presented to the King; I knew not what else to do, but weep out-right, and Curss my own sloathfulness; yet I dres­sed my self, but my Page was ready long before me, and ran out of the Chamber to see how affairs might yet stand. But he soon returned, and brought with him this joyful news, [Page 97] that the time indeed was not YET past, J [...] privatur. only I had over-slept my Break fast, they being unwilling to waken me because of my Age; But that now it was time for me to go with him to the Fountain where the most part were assembled▪ With this Consolation my Spirit returned a­gain, wherefore I was soon ready with my Habit, and went after the Page to the Fountain in the afore mentioned Garden, where I found that the Lyon instead of his Sword had a pretty large Leonis Ta­bula. Tablet by him. Now having well viewed it, I found that it was taken out of the ancient Monuments, and placed here for some especial Honour. The inscription was somewhat worn out with age, and therefore I am mind­ed to set it down here, as it is, and give every one leave to consider it.

This Writing might well be read and Scriptura faci [...]i. understood, and may therefore fitly be here placed, because easier than any of the rest: Now after we had first washed our selves out of the Fountain, and every Man had taken a draught out Petus. of an intirely Golden Cup, we were once more again to follow the Virgin into the Hall, and there put on new [Page 99] Apparel, which was all of Cloth of vestitus▪ Gold gloriously set out with Flowers. There was also given to every one ano­ther Golden Fleece, which was set about with pretious Stones, and various Workmanship according to the utmost skill of each Artificer. On it hung a weighty Medal of Gold, whereon were figured the Sun and Moon in opposition; but on the other side stood this Poesie, The light of the Moon shall be as the light of the Sun, and the light of the Sun shall be seven times lighter than at present. But Clinodi [...] our former Jewels were layed in a lit­tle Casket, and committed to one of the Waiters. After this the Virgin lead us out in our order, where the Musiti­ans M [...]si [...]. waited ready at the door, all appa­ralled in red Velvet with white Guards. After which a Door (which I never saw Access [...] ad Regis A [...]lam. open before) to the Royal winding-Stairs was unlocked; There the Vir­gin led us together with the Musick, up three hundred sixty five Stairs, there we saw nothing but what was of extream costly and artificial Workmanship; and still the further we went, the more glorious still was the Furniture, until at length at the top we came under a [Page 100] painted Arch, where the sixty Virgins Laborato­rium arena­tum 60. Vir­gines. attended us, all Richly Apparelled; Now as soon as they had bowed to us, and we as well as we could, had re­turned our reverence, our Musitians were dispatched away, who were fain to go down the winding-Stairs again, the Door being shut after them. Af­ter this a little Bell was tolled; then came in a beautiful Virgin who brought every one a wreath of Laurel; But our Virgins had Branches given them: Virg. Lucif. Mean while a Curtain was drawn up; Where I saw the King and Queen as they sate there in their Majesty, and had not the yesterday Queen so faithfully warned me, I should have forgotten my self, and have equalled this unspeak­able Regis & Re­gins gloria. glory to Heaven. For besides that the Room glistered of meer Gold and pretious Stones; the Queen's Robes were moreover so made that I was not able to behold them. And whereas I before esteemed any thing for handsom, here all things so much surpassed the rest, as, the Stars in Heaven are elevated. In the mean time the Virgin stept in, and so each of the Virgins taking one of us by the hand, with most profound Re­verence [Page 101] presented us to the King: Virgo Luoif, praesentat hospites Regi. Whereupon the Virgin began thus to speak. That to honour your Royal Ma­jesties, (most gratious King and Queen) these Lords here present have adventured hither with peri [...]ody and Life; your Majesties have reason to rejoyce, especially since the greatest part are qualified for the inlarging of your Majesties Estates and Em­pire, as you will find the same by a most gratious and particular examination of each of them. Herewith I was desirous thus to have them in Humility presented to your Majesties, with most humble suit to dis­charge me of this my Commission, and most gratiously to take sufficient information from each of them, concerning both my Actions and Omissions. Hereupon she laid down her Branch upon the ground. Now it would have been very sitting for one of us to have put in and spoken somewhat on this occasion, but seeing we were all troubled with the falling of Hospites ne­ [...]iunt re­sponde [...]t-At­las respon­det. the Ʋvula, at length the old Atlas stept forward and spoke on the King's behalf; Their Royal Majesties de most gratiously re­joyce at your arrival, and will that their Royal Grace be assured to all, and every Man: And with thy Administration, gen­tle [Page 102] Virgin, they are most gratiously satisfied, & accordingly a Royal Reward shall therefore be provided for thee; yet it is still their inten­tion, that thou shalt this day also continue with them, in as much [...] they have no rea­son to mistrust thee. Hereupon the Vir­gin humbly took up the Branch again. And so we for this first time were to step aside with our Virgin. This room Descriptio Laboratorij. was square on the front, five times broader than it was long; but towards the West it had a great Arch like a Porch, wherein stood in circle three Subscellia. glorious Royal Thrones, yet the middle­most was somewhat higher than the rest. Now in each Throne sate two persons, in the first sate a very antient King with 1. Rex s [...] ­ [...]ex Conjux Juven. a gray Beard, yet his Consort was ex­traordinary fair and young. In the third Throne sate a black King of mid­dle 3. Rex et conjux senes Age, and by him a dainty old Ma­tron, not Crowned, but covered with a Vail. But in the middle sate the two young Persons, who tho' they had like­wise 2. Juveres. Wreaths of Laurel upon their Heads, yet over them hung a large and costly Crown. Now albeit they were not at this time so fair as I had before imagined to my self, yet so it was to be. [Page 103] Behind them on a round Forn [...] sat for Scam [...]. Assessores. the most part antient Mon, yet none of them (at which I wondered) had any Sword, or other Weapon about him; [Quales­nam;] [...]um [...]llae virtu­tum? Neither saw I any other Life-guard, but certain Virgins which were with us the day before, who sate on the sides of the Arch. Here can I not pass in silence how the little Cupid flew to and again Cupid [...]. there, but for the most part he hove­red and played the wanton about the great Crown; sometimes he seated him­self in between the two Lovers, some­what smiling upon them with his Bow. Nay, sometimes he made as if he would shoot one of us; In brief, this Knave was so full of his waggery, that he would not spair even the little Birds, which in multitudes▪ flew up and down Aves. the Room, but co [...]mented them all he could. The Virgins also had their pa­stimes Virgines. with him, but whensoever they could catch him, it was not so easie a matter for him to get from them again. Thus this little Knave made all the sport and mirth.1 Before the Queen Supellex in Aulá Altare. 1. Book. stood a small, but unexpressibly curious Altar: wherin lay a Book covered with black Velvet, only a little over-layed [Page 104] with Gold; by this stood a small Ta­per 2. Taper. in an Ivory Candlestick, now al­though it were very small, yet it burnt continually, and stood in that manner, that had not Cupid in sport, now and then puffed upon it, we could not have 3. Sphaere. conceived it to be Fire. By this stood, a Sphere or Celestial Globe, which of 4. Watch. its self turned clearly about. Next this, a small st [...]ing Watch, by that a little Christal Pipe or Syphon-Fountain 5. little Fountain. out of which perpetually ran a clear blood red Liquor; and last of all a Scull, or Death's Head; in this was a white 6. Scull. Serpent. Serp [...], which was of such a length, that though she crept circle wise about the rest of it, yet her Taile still remained in one of the Eye-holes, until her Head again entered at the other, so she ne­ver s [...]i [...]ted from her Scull, unless it happened that Cupid twitched a little at her, for then she stipt in so suddenly, that we all could not choose but marvel at it: Together with this Altar, there were up and down the Room wonder­ful Imagines. Images; which moved themselves, as if they had been alive, and had so strange a contrivance, that it would be impossible for me to relate it all: [Page 105] like wise as we were passing out, there began such a marvellous kind of vocal [...] Musick, that I could not certainly tell whether it were performed by the Vir­gins who yet stayed behind or by the Images themselves. Now we being for [...] this time satisfied, went thence with out Virgins, who, the Mus [...]ians being already present, led us down the winding Stairs again, but the Door was diligently locked and bolted as soon as we were come again into the Hall : one of the Virgins began I wonder Sister, that you durst adventure your self amongst so many Persons▪ My Sister, re­plyed our President, I am fearful of none Virgines [...] ­cantur de [...] ­nio Autoris. so much as of this Man, pointing at me▪ This speech, went to the Heart of me▪ For I well understood that she mocked at my Age, and indeed I was the oldest of them all▪ Yet she comforted me a­gain with, promise, That in case I be­haved my self vvell towards her▪ she vvould easily, rid me of this, burden▪ Mean time a Collation was again Convivium [...] Vir [...] bus. brought in, and every one's Virgin seated by him, vvho vvell knevv how to shorten the time with handsom discourses: But what their discourses [Page 106] and sports vvere I dare not blab out of [...] Convivales School. But most of the questions were about the Arts, whereby I could light­ly gather that both young and old were conversant in the Sciences. But still it run in my thoughts hovv I might be­come young again, whereupon I vvas somevvhat the sadder; This the Vir­gin Autor Maestus ob [...]ium. perceived, and therefore began, I dare lay any thing, if I lye with him to night, he shall be pleasanter, in the morn­ing. Hereupon they began to laugh, and albeit I blushed all over, yet I vvas sain to laugh too at my ovvn ill-luck. Jocosum so­latium accipit Virgine. Novv there vvas one there that had a mind to return my disgrace again upon the Virgin; vvhereupon he said, I hope not only we, but the Virgins too them­selves will bear witness in behalf of our Brother, that our Lady President hath pro­mised [...]ocio. her self to be his Bed-fellow to Night▪ I should be well content with it, replyed the Virgin, if I had not reason to be afraid of these my Sisters, there would be no hold with them should I clouse the best and handsomest Virg. Lucif. for my self, against their will. My Sister presently began another, We find here­by that thy high Office makes thee not proud; wherefore if by thy permission we might by [Page 107] lot part the Lords here present, amongst us, for Bed-fellows, thou shouldst with our good­will have such a Prerogative. We let this pass thus for a Jeast, and began a­gain to discourse together. But our Virgin could not leave tormenting us, Ludiera electio [...] ­dormientis. and therefore began again, My Lords, how if we should permit Fourtune to decide which of us must lie together to Night▪ Well, said I, if it may be no other­vvise, vve cannot refuse such a proffer, Novv because it vvas concluded to make this tryal after Mear vve resolved to sit no longer at Table, so we arose, and each one vvalked up and dovvn vvith his Virgin. Nay, said the Virgin, It shall not be so yet, but let us see how For­tune will couple us; upon vvhich vve vvere separated asunder: But novv first arose a dispute hovv the business should be carried, but this was only a pre­mediated device, for the Virgin instantly made the proposal that we should mix our selves together in a Ring, and that she beginning to count from her self, the seventh, was to be content with the following seventh, whether it were a Virgin, or man for our p [...]ts we were not aware of any craft, and [Page 108] therefore permitted it so to be; but▪ when we thought we had very well mingled our selves, the Virgins never­theless were so subtil, that each one knew her station before-hand: The Virgin began to reckon, the seventh next her was again a Virgin, the third seventh a Virgin likewise, and this hap­ned so long till (to our amazement) all the Virgins came forth, and none of us was hit; Thus we poor pittiful Wretches remained standing alone, and were moreover forced to suffer our selves to be jeared too, and confess we were very handsomly couzened. In short, who ever had seen us in our or­der, might sooner have expected the Skye to fall, then that it should never have come to our turn. Herewith our sport was at an end, and we were fain to satisfie our selves with the Virgins Waggery. In the interm, the little wanton Cupid came also in unto us; But because he presented himself on be­half of their Royal Majesties, and de­livered A Health us a Health (as from them) out of a golden Cup, and was to call our Virgins to the King, withal declaring he could at this time tarry no longer [Page 109] with them, we could not sufficiently sport our selves with him: So with a due return of our most humble thanks we let him flye forth again. Now be­cause (in the interm) the mirth began to fall into my Consort's Feet, and the Virgins were nothing sorry to see it, A merry dance they quickly lead up a civil Dance, whom I rather beheld with pleasure, then assisted. For my Mercurialists were so ready with their Postures, as if they had been long of the Trade. After some few Dances our president Hospites invitantur a virgine Lucif. ad comaedia [...] came in again, and told us how the Artists and Students had offered them­selves to their Royal Majesties, for their Honour and Pleasure, before their de­parture to act a Merry Comedy; and if we thought good to be present at it, and to waite upon their Royal Majesties to the House of the Sun, it would be acceptable to them, and they would most gratiously acknowledge it: Here­upon in the first place we returned our most humble thanks for the Honour vouchsafed us, not only so, but more­over most submissively tendered our small service, which the Virgin related again, and presently brought word to [Page 110] attend their Royal Majesties (in our or­der) in the Gallery, whither we were soon led, and staid not long there; for the Royal Procession was just ready, Processus Regis ad Spoctandam Comaediam. yet without any Musick at all. The unknown Queen, who was Yesterday with us, went foremost, with a small and costly Coronet, apparrelled in white Sattin, she carried nothing but a small Crucifix which was made of a Pearl, and this very day wrought between the young King and his Bride. After her went the six fore-mentioned Virgins in two ranks, who carried the King's Jewels belonging to the little Altar: next to these came the three Kings. The Bridegroom was in the midst of them in a plain dress, only in black Sattin, after the Italian Mode. He had on a small round black Hat, with a little black pointed Feather, which he cour­teously put off to us, thereby to signi­fie his favour towards us. To him we bowed our selves, as also to the first, as we had been before instructed. After the Kings came the three Queens, two whereof were richly habited, only she in the middle went likewise all in black, and Cupid held up her Train; after [Page 111] this intimation was given to us to fol­low, and after us the Virgins, till at last old Atlas brought up the rear. In such Procession, through many stately Walks, we at length came to the House of the Sun, there next to the King and Queen, upon a richly furnished Scaffold, Statio Spectato­rum. to behold the fore-ordained Comedy: We indeed, though Separated, stood on the right Hand of the Kings, but the Virgins on the left, except those, to whom the Royal Ensignes were commit­ted. To them was allotted a peculiar standing at top of all. But the rest of the attendants were fain to stand below between the columns, and therewith to be content. Now because there are ma­ny a Pr [...]puś quae agebantur▪ Actos. 1. remarkable Passages in this Comedy, I will not omit in brief to run it over.

First of all came forth a very ancient Ring, with some Servants; before whose Throne was brought a little Chest, with mention that it was found upon the Water, Now it being opened, there appeared in it a lovely Babe, together with certain Jewels, and a small Letter of Parchment sealed, and superscribed to the King. Which the King there­fore presently opened, and having read [Page 112] it, wept; and then declared to his Ser­vants how injuriously the King of the Moores had deprived his Aunt of her Country, and had exstinguished all the Royal Seed even to this Infant, with the Daughter of which Country he had now purposed to have matched his Son. Hereupon he Swore to maintain perpe­tual enmity with the Moore, and his Al­lies, and to reuenge this upon him; and therewith commanded that the Child should be tenderly nursed, and to make preparation against the Moore. Now this provision and the discipline of the young Lady (who after she was a little grown up was committed to an antient Tutor) continued all the first Act; with many very fine and laudable sports besides.

In the interlude a Lyon and Griffon Inter [...], were set at one another, to fight, and the Lyon got the victory; which was also a pretty fight.

In the second Act, the Moore, a very Actus 2. black treacherous Fellow, came forth also; who having with vexation un­derstood that his Murder was disco­vered, and that too a little Lady was cra [...]ly stollen from him; began there­upon to consult how by stratagem he [Page 113] might be able to encounter so powerful an adversary, whereof he was at length advised by certain Fugitives who by rea­son of Famine fled to him: So the young Lady contrary to all mens ex­pectation, fell again into his Hands: Whom, had he not heen wonderfully deceived by his own Servants, he had like to have caused to be slain. Thus this Act too was concluded with a mer­velous triumph of the Moore.

In the third Act a great Army on the Actus 3. King's party was raised against the Moore, and put under the conduct of an anti­ent valiant Knight, who fell into the Moores Country, till at length he force­ably rescued the young Lady out of the Tower, and Apparrelled her a new. After this in a trice they erected a glori­ous Scaffold, and placed their young Lady upon it: presently came twelve Royal Embassadors, amongst whom the fore-mentioned Knight made a Speech, alledging that the King his most gracious Lord had not only heretofore delivered her from death, and even hitherto cau­sed her to be royally brought up (though she had not behaved her self altogether as became her) But moreover his Royal [Page 114] Majesty had, before others, elected her, to be a Spouse for the young Lord his Son; and most gratiously desired that the said espousals might be really executed in case they would be sworn to his Majesty upon the following Arti­cles. Hereupon out of a Patent he cau­sed certain glorious conditions to be read, which if it were not too long, were well worthy to be here recounted. In brief, the young Lady took an Oath inviolably to observe the same; return­ing thanks withal in most seemly sort for this so high a Grace. Whereupon they began to sing to the Praise of God, of the King, and the young Lady; and so for this time departed.

For sport, in the mean while, the [...] four Beasts of Daniel, as he saw them in the Vision, and hath at large descri­bed them, were brought in, all which had its certain signification.

In the fourth Act the young Lady was [...] 4. again restored to her lost Kingdom, and Crowned, and for a space, in this array, conducted about the place with extra­ordinary joy: after this many & various Embassadors presented themselves, not only to wish her prosperity, but also [Page 115] to behold her Glory. Yet it was not long that she preserved her integrity, but soon began again to look want only about her, and to wink at the Embassa­dors and Lords; wherein she truly▪ acted her part to the Life.

These her manners were soon known to the Moore, who would by no means neglect such an opportunity, and because her Steward had not sufficient regard to her, she was easily blinded with great promises, so that she had no good con­fidence in her King, but privily sub­mitted her self to the intire disposal of the Moore. Hereupon the Moore made haste, and having (by her consent) got­ten her into his Hands, he gave her good words so long till all her Kingdom had subjected it self to him: After which in the third Scene of this Act, he caused her to be led forth, and first to be stript stark naked, and then upon a scurvy wooden Scaffold to be bound to a Post, and well scourged, and at last sentenced to Death. This was so woful a Spectacle, that it made the Eyes of many to run over. Hereupon thus na­ked as she was, she was cast into Prison, thereto expect her Death, which was [Page 116] to be procured by Poyson, which yet killed her not, but made her Leprous all over: Thus this Act was for the most part lamentable. Interludium.

Between, they brought forth Nebu­chadnezzar's Image, which was adorn'd with all manner of Arms, on the Head, Breast, Belly, Legs and Feet, and the like; of which too more shall be spoken in the future explication.

In the fifth Act the young King was Actus. 5. acquainted with all that had passed be­tween the Moore and his future Spouse, who first interceeded with his Father for her, intreating that she might not be left in that condition; which his Father having agreed to, Embassadors were dispatched to comfort her in her Sickness and Captivity, but yet with­al to give her notice of her inconsidera­tedness. But she would not yet receive them, but consented to be the Moore's Concubine, which was also done, and the young King was acquainted with it.

After this comes a band of Fools, each [...] of which brought with him a Cudgel, where with in a trice they made a great Globe of the World, and as soon undid it again. It was a fine sportive Phantsie.

[Page 117]In the sixth Act the young King re­solved Actus▪ 6. to bid battle to the Moore, which also was done. And albeit the Moore was discomfitted, yet all held the young King too for dead. At length he came to him­self again▪ released his Spouse, and com­mitted her to his Steward and Chaplain.

The first whereof tormented her mightily, at last the leaf turned over, and the Priest was so insolently wicked, that he would needs be above all, until the same was reported to the young King, who hastily dispatched one who broke the Neck of the Priest's mighti­ness, and adorned the Bride in some measure for the Nuptials.

After the Act a vast artificial Elephant Interludium. was brought forth. He carried a great Tower with Musitians: which was also well-pleasing to all.

In the last Act the Bride-groom ap­peared in such pomp as is not well to be believed, and I was amazed how it Act. 7. was brought to pass: The Bride met him in the like Solemnity. Whereup­on all the People cried out VIVAT Comaedo [...] applausus erga Rege [...] & Regi­ [...] SPONSƲS, VIVAT SPONSA. So that by this Comedy they did with all con­gratulate our King and Queen in the [Page 118] most stately manner: Which (as I well observed) pleased them most extraordi­nary well.

At length they made some pasces about the stage in such Procession, till at last they altogether began thus to Sing.

After this thanks were returned, and Epilogus. [Page 119] the Comedy was finished with joy, and the particular good liking of the Roy­al Persons wherefore (the Evening also being already hard by) they departed together in their fore-mentioned order: Hospites in­vitantur ad caenam Re­gis et Re­ginae. But we were to attend the Royal Per­sons up the winding Stairs into the forementioned Hall, where the Tables were already richly furnished, and this was the first time that we were invited to the Kings table. The little Altar was placed in the midst of the Hall, and the six fore-named Royal Ensignes were laid on it. At this time the young King Rex Ado­lesc. behaved himself very gratiously towards us, but yet he could not be heartily Merry; But howbeit he now and then discoursed a little with us, yet he often sighed, at which the little Cupid only mocked, and playd his waggish tricks. The old King and Queen were very se­rious, only the Wi [...]e of one of the an­cient Rege [...] Adulti▪ Kings was gay enough, the cause whereof I yet understood not. Du­ring this, the Royal Persons took up the Ordo dis­cum [...]b [...]ti­um. first Table, at the second we only Sate. At the third, some of the principal Virgins placed themselves: The rest of the Virgins, and Men, were all fain to [Page 120] wait. This was performed with such state and solemn stilness, that I am af­fraid to make many words of it. Here [...]. I cannot leave untouched how that all the Royal Persons, before Meat, atti­red themselves in Snow-white glitter­ing Garments, and so sate down to Ta­ble. Over the Table hung the fore­mentioned great Golden Crown, the [...] Men [...]m. pretious Stones whereof, without any other Light, would have sufficiently Illuminated the Hall. However all the Lights were kindled at the small Taper upon the Altar; what the reason was I did not certainly know. But this I took very good notice of, that the young King frequently sent Meat to the white Serpent upon the little Altar, which caused me to muse. Almost all the Prattle at this Banquet was made by lit­tle Cupido was [...] Cupid, who could not leave us (and me indeed especially) untormented. He was perpetually producing some Strange matter. However, there was no considerable Mirth, all went silently on; from whence I, by my self, could imagin some great imminent Peril. For there was no Musick at all heard; but if we were demanded any thing, [Page 121] we were fain to give short round an­swers, Sermones breves and so let it rest. In short, all things had so strange a face, that the sweat began to trickle down all over my Body; and I am apt to believe that the stout-heartedst Man alive would then have lost his courage. Supper being now almost ended, the young King commanded the Book to be reached him from the little Altar. This he opened, Oratio Re­gis Adoles­centis. and caused it once again by an old Man to be propounded to us, whether we resolved to abide with him in Prosperity and Adversity; which we having with trembling consented to, he further caused us sadly to be demanded, whe­ther we would give him our Hands on it, which, when we could find no evasi­on, was fain so to be. Hereupon one after another arose, and with his own Hand writ himself down in this Book. When this also was performed, the little Christal Fountain, together with a very small Christal Glass was brought A Health. near, out of which all the Royal Persons one after another Drank, afterwards it was reached [...]o us too, and so forward to all Persons, and this was called, the Draught of Silence. Hereupon all the Haustus de [...]. [Page 122] Royal Persons presented us their Hands, declaring that in case we did not now stick to them, we should now and never more hereafter see them; which Fidejubetur Virg. Lucif. verily made our Eyes run over. But our president engaged her self and pro­mised very largely on our behalf, which gave them Satisfaction. Mean time a little Bell was tolled, at which all the Royal Persons waxed so mighty bleak, that we were ready utterly to despair. They quickly put off their white Gar­ments again, and put on intirely black ones; The whole Hall likewise was hung about with black Velvet, the Floor Mors Re­gulorum. was covered with black Velvet, with which also the Cieling above (all this being before Prepared) was over­spread. After that the Tables were also removed away, and all had seated themselves round about upon the Form, and we also had put on black habits; in comes our President again, who was before gone out, and brought with her six black Taffata Scarffs, with which she bound the six Royal Persons Eyes. Now when they could no longer see, there were immediately brought in by the Servants six covered Coffins, and [Page 123] set down in the Hall, also a low black Seat placed in the midst. Finally, there stept in a very cole-black tall Man, who bare in his hand a sharp Ax. Now af­ter De collatio Regum. that the old King had been first brought to the Seat, his Head was in­stantly whipt off, and wrapped up in a black Cloth, but the Blood was received into a great golden Goblet, and placed with him in the Coffin that stood by, which being covered, vvas set aside. Thus it went with the rest also, so that I thought it would at length have come to me too, but it did not; For as soon as the six Royal Persons were Be­headed, the black Man vvent out again; after vvhom another follovved, vvho Beheaded him too just before the Door, and brought back his Head together vvith the Ax, vvhich vvere laid in a Carnificis. little Chest. This indeed to me seem­ed a bloody Wedding, but because I could not tell vvhat vvould yet be the event, I vvas fain for that time to cap­tivate my understanding until I vvere Hospites M [...]rent. further resolved. For the Virgin too, seeing that some of us vvere faint▪ hearted and vvept, bid us be content. For, said she to us, The Life of these standeth Solatium [Page 124] now in your hands, and in case you follow me, this Death shall make many alive. Herewith she intimated we should go sleep, & trou­ble our selves no further on our part, for they should be sure to have their due right; And so she bad us all good night, saying, That she must watch the dead Corps Cura No­ctur [...] m [...]r­tuorum. this night: We did so, and were each of us conducted by our Pages into our Lodgings. My Page talked with me of Hospites eu [...]t cubi­tum. sundry and various matters (which I still very well remember) and gave me cause enough to admire at his under­standing: But his intention was to lull me asleep, which at last I well ob­served, whereupon I made as though I was fast asleep, but no sleep came into my Eyes, and I could not put the Be­headed out of my mind. Now my Lodging was directly over against the great Lake, so that I could well Cubiculum look upon it, the Windows being nigh the Bed. About midnight, as soon as it had struck twelve, on a sudden I espied on the Lake a great Fire, where­fore Visio noctur­ [...]a. out of fear I quickly opened the Window to see what would become of it; Then from far I saw seven Ships making forward, which were all stuck [Page 125] full of Lights. Above on the top of each of them hovered a Flame, that pas­sed to and fro, and sometimes descend­ed quite down, so that I could lightly judge that it must needs be the Spirits of the Beheaded. Now these Ships gent­ly approached to Land, and each of them had no more than one Mariner. As soon as they were now gotten to Shore, I presently espied our Virgin with a Torch going towards the Ships, after whom the six covered Coffins, together with the little Chest, were carried; and each of them privily laid in a Ship. Wherefore I awaked my Page too, who Cadavera avehuntur trans Lacum. hugely thanked me, for having run much up and down all the day, he might quite have over-slept this, tho' he well knew it. Now as soon as the Coffins were laid in the Ships, all the Lights were ex­stinguished, and the six Flames passed back together over the Lake, so that there was no more but one Light in each Ship for a Watch. There were also some hundreds of Watch-men who had encamped themselves on the Shore, and sent the Virgin back again into the Ca­stle, who carefully bolted all up again; [Page 126] so that I could well judge that there was nothing more to be done this night, but that we must expect the day; so we again betook our selves to rest. And I only of all my Company had a Cham­ber towards the Lake, and saw this, so that now I was also extream weary, and Autor solus [...] Vidit. so fell asleep in my manifold Specula­tions.

The fifth Day.

THe night was over, and the dear [...] wished for day broken, when [...] I got me out of the Bed, more [...] learn what might yet insue, [...] sufficiently slept; Now [...] my Cloaths, and [...]one down [...]y, and I fo [...] the Hall, where­fore I intreated my Page to lead me a little about in the Castle, and shew me somewhat that was rare, who was now (as always) willing, and presently lead me down certain steps under ground, to a great Iron Door, on which the follow­ing Words in great Copper Letters, were fixed.

This I thus copied, and set down in Thalamus veneris se­pultae. my Table-Book. Now after this Door was opened, the Page led me by the hand through a very dark Passage, till we came again to a very little Door, that was now only put too, For (as the Page informed me) it was first opened but yesterday when the Cossins were taken out, and had not been since [...]hat. Now as soon as we steeped in, I espied the most pretious thing that Na­ture ever created: For this Vault had no other light but from certain huge great Carbuncles; And this (as I was in­formed) was the King's Treasury. But the most glorious and principal thing, The saurus Regis. that I here saw, was a Sepulcher (which stood in the middle) so rich that I won­dred it was no better guarded; where­unto [Page 128] the Page answered me, That I had good reason to be thankful to my Planet, by whose influence it was, that I had now seen certain pieces which no humane Eye else (ex­cept the King's Family) had ever had a view of. This Sepulcher was triangular, Descriptio Sepulchri. and had in the middle of it a Kettle of polished Copper, the rest was of pure Gold and pretious Stones; In the Ket­tle stood an Angel, who held in his Arms an unknown Tree, from which it continually dropped into the Kettle; and as oft as the Fruit fell into the Ket­tle, it turned into Water too, and ran out from thence into three small Gol­den Kettles standing by. This little Altar was supported by these three Ani­mals, an Eagle, an Ox and a Lyon, which stood on an exceeding costly Base. I asked my Page what this might signifie: Here, said he, lies Buried Lady Venus, that Beauty which hath undone many a great Man, both in Fourtune, Honour, Blessing and Prosperity. After which he shewed me a Copper Door on the Pavement. Aliud Tri­clinium. Here (said he) if you please, we may go further down; I still follow you (replyed I) so I went down the steps, where it was exceeding dark, but the Page immedi­ately [Page 129] opened a little Chest, wherein stood a small ever-burning Taper, at which he kindled one of the many Torches which lay by. I was mighti­ly terrified, and seriously asked how he durst do this? He gave me for an­swer, As long as the Royal Persons are still at rest, I have nothing to fear. Here­with I espied a rich Bed ready made, hung about with curious Curtains, one of which he drew, where I saw the Lady Venus stark-naked (for he heaved up the Coverlets too) lying there in such Descriptio corporis veneris don­mie [...]ti [...]. Beauty, and a fashion so surprizing, that I was almost besides my self, neither do I yet know whether it was a piece thus Carved, or an humane Corps that lay dead there; For she was alto­gether immoveable, and yet I durst not touch her. So she was again covered, and the Curtain drawn before her, yet she was still (as it were) in my Eye. But I soon espyed behind the Bed a Tab­let, on which it was thus written.

I asked my Page concerning this Writing, but he laughed, with pro­mise that I should know it too. So he putting out the Torch, we again ascend­ed: Then I better viewed all the lit­tle Doors, and first found, that on e­very corner there burned a small Taper of Pyrites, of which I had before ta­ken no notice; for the Fire was so clear, that it looked much liker a Stone than a Taper. From this heat the Tree was forced continually to melt, yet it still [...] ­bus. produced new Fruit. Now behold (said the Page) what I heard revealed to the King by Atlas, When the Tree (said he) shall be quite melted down▪ Then shall Lady Venus awake, and be the Mother of a King. [Page 131] Whilst he was thus speaking, in flew the little Cupid, who at first was some­what abashed at our presence, but see­ing us both look more like the Dead Mul [...] fa­cta hujus obambulati­onis. then the Living, he could not at length refrain from Laughing, Demanded what Spirit had brought me thither, whom I with trembling answered, that I had lost my way in the Castle, and was by chance come hither, and that the Page like­wise had been looking up and down for me, and at last lited upon me here, I hoped he would not take it amiss. Nay then 'tis well enough yet, said Cupid▪ my old busie Gransir, but you might lightly have served me a scurvy trick, had you been a­ware of this Door. Now I must look bet­ter to it, and so he put a strong Lock on the Copper Door, where we before de­scended. I thanked God that he lited upon us no sooner, my Page too was the more jocond, because I had so well helped him at this pinch. Yet can I not (said Cupid) let it pass unrevenged, that you were so near stumbling upon my dear Mother; with that he put the point of his Dart into one of the little Tapers, and heating it a little, pricked me with it on the hand, which at that time I lit­tle [Page 132] regarded, but was glad that it went so, well with us, and that we came off without further danger. Mean time my Companions were gotten out of Bed too, and were again returned into the Hall▪ To whom I also joyned my self, making as if I were then first risen. After Cupid had carefully made all fast again▪ he came likewise to us, and would needs have me shew him my hand, where he still found a little drop Cupido illu­dit Autori. of blood, at which he heartily laughed▪ and bad the rest have a care of me, I would shortly end my days. We all wondred how Cupid could be so merry, Mira Cupi­dinis laetitia. and have no sence at all of the yester­day's sad passages. But he was no whit troubled. Now our President had in Praesidissae Vestitus lu­gubris. the mean time made her self ready for the Journey, coming in all in black Vel­vet yet she still bare her branch of Lau­rel, her Virgins too had their Branches. Novv all things being in readiness, the Virgin bid us first drink somevvhat, and then presontly prepare for the proces­sion▪ wherefore we made no long tar­rying▪ but follovved her out of the Hall into the Court. In the Court stood six Coffins, and my Companions thought no other but that the six Royal Persons [Page 133] lay in them, but I well observed the de­vice. Yet I knew not what was to be done with these other. By each Coffin were eight muffled Men. Now as soon as the Musick went (it was so mournful & dolesome a tune▪ that I was astonished at it) they took up the Coffins, and we (as we were ordered) were fair to go after them into the formentioned Gar­den, in the midst of which was erected a wooden Edifice, having round about the Roof a glorious Crown, and stand­ing upon seven Columns; within it▪ were formed fix Sepulchers, and by each of them a stone, but in the middle it had a round hollow rising stone: In these Graves the Coffins were quietly and with many Cerimonies layed: The stones were sho­ved over them, and they shut fast. But the little Chest was to lie in the reiddle. Herewith were my Companions de­ceived, for they imagined no other but that the Dead Corps were there. Upon the rop of all there was a great Flag, ha­ving a Phaenix painted on it, perhaps therewith the more to delude us. Here I had great occasion to thank God that I had seen more than the rest. Now af­ter Hospites Vo­cantur ad la­bores provi­ta Regum. the Funerals were done, the Virgin, [Page 134] having placed her self upon the middle­most Stone, made a short Oration, That we should be constant to our ingagements, and not repine at the pains we were hereafter to undergo, but be helpful in restoring the present buried Royal Persons to Life again, and therefore without delay to rise up with her, to make a Journey to the Tower of Olympus, to fetch from thence Medicines useful and necessary for this purpose. This we soon agreed to, and followed her through another little door quite to the Shore. There the seven fore-mention­ed Ships stood all empty; on which all the Virgins stuck up their Laurel Branches, and after they had distributed us in the six Ships, they caused us in Gods name; thus to begin our Voyage, and looked upon us as long as they could have us in sight, after which they with all the Watch-men returned into the Virgines re­manent in [...]. Castle. Our Ships had each of them a peculiar device. Five of them indeed had the five regular Bodies, each a seve­ral one, but mine in which the Virgin too sate, carried a Globe. Thus we sailed on in a singular order, and each had only two Mariners. Foremost went the Ship [...], in which, as I conceive the [Page 135] Moor lay, in this were twelve Musuians, Diagram. who played excellent well, its device was a Pyramid. Next followed three a breast, b, c, and d, in vvhich vve were disposed, I sate in c. In the midst be­hind these came the two fairest and stateliest Ships, e and f, stuck about with many Branches of Laurel, having no Passengers in them; their Flags were the Sun and Moon. But in the rear on­ly one Ship g, in this vvere Forty Vir­gins. Novv being thus passed over this 40 Virgines comites. Lake, we first came through a narrovv Arm, into the right Sea, where all the Syrens, Nymphs, and Sea-Goddesses had Excipiuntur a Nymphis. attended us; wherefore they immedi­ately dispatched a Sea-Nymph to us to deliver their Present and Offering of Honour to the Wedding. It was a costly, great, set, round, and Orient Pearl; the like to vvhich hath not at a­ny time been seen, either in ours, or yet in the nevv World. Novv the Vir­gin having friendly received it, the Nymph further intreated that audience might be given to their Divertisements, and to make a little stand, vvhich the Virgin vvas content to do, and com­manded the tvvo great Ships to stand [Page 136] into the middle, and Diagram with the rest to in­compass them in Pentagon. After which the Nymphs fell into a ring a­bout them, and with a most delicate svveet voice began thus to sing.

They having with most admira­ble Autor [...] per­pracent Nymphae et cantus concent and melody finished this Song, I no more Wondred at Ʋlisses for stopping the Ears of his Com­panions; for I seemed to my self the most unhappy man alive, that Nature had not made me too so trim a creature. But the Virgin soon dispatched them, and commanded to set Sail from thence; wherefore the Nymphs too after they had been pre­sented The Nimphs are reward­ed. with a long red Scarff for a gra­tuity; went off, and dispersed them­selves in the Sea. I was at this time sensible, that Cupid began to work with me too, which yet tended but very lit­tle to my Credit, and for as much as my giddiness is likely to be nothing be­neficial Autori de­sunt [...]. to the Reader, I am resolved to let it rest as it is. But this was the ve­ry wound that in the first Book I re­ceived on the head in a Dream: and let every one take warning by me of [Page 139] loitering about Venus; Bed, for Cupid can by no means brook it. After some Hours, having in friendly discourses made a good way, we came within Ken of the Tower of Olympus, wherefore the Virgin commanded by the discharge of some Pieces to give the signal of our approach, which was also done; And immediately we espyed a great white Flag thrust out, and a small gilded Turris Olymps. Pinnace sent forth to meet us. Now as soon as this was come to us, we per­ceived in it a very ancient man, the Warden of the Tower, with certain Custos Guards cloathed in white, of whom we were Friendly received, and so con­ducted to the Tower. This Tower was Situated upon an Island exactly square, which was invironed with a Wall Structure. so firm and thick, that I my self coun­ted two hundred and sixty passes over. Dies. On the other side of the wall was a fine Meadow with certain little Gardens, in which grew strange, and to me un­known, Fruits; and then again an inner Wall round about the Tower. The Tower of it self was just as if seven round Towers had been built one by another, yet the middlemost was [Page 140] somewhat the higher▪ and within they all entred one into another, and had seven Storys one above another. Being thus come to the Gates of the Tower, we were led a little aside on the Wall, that so, as I well observed, the Coffins might be brought into the Tower with­out our taking notice; of this the rest knew nothing. This being done, we were conducted into the Tower at the 1. Concloave very bottom, which albeit it were ex­cellently painted, yet we had here lit­til recreation, for this was nothing but a Laboratory, where we were fain to beat and wash Plants, and pretious Stones, Labores hospitum. and all Sorts of Things, and extract their Juice and Essence, and put up the same in Glasses, and deliver them to be laid up. And truly our Virgin was so busie with us, and so full of her di­rections, that she knew how to give each of us employment enough, so that in this Island we were fain to be meer drudges, till we had atcheived all that was necessary for the restoring of the Be­headed Bodies. Mean time (as I after­wards understood) three Virgins were virginum in the first Apartment washing the Corps with all diligence. Now having [Page 141] at length almost done with this our pre­paration, nothing more was brought us, Cibus [...] but some broath with a little draught of Wine, whereby I well observed, that we were not here for our pleasure; for when we had finished our days work too, every one had only a Mattress laid on Lectus. tenuis. the Ground for him, wherewith we were to content our selves. For my part I was not very much troubled with sleep, and therefore walked out into the Garden, and at length came as for as the Wall; and because the Heaven was at that time very clear, I could well Autor Spe­culatur cae­lum pro­somno. drive away the time in contemplating the Stars; By chance I came to a great pair of Stone-Stairs, which led up to the top of the Wall. And because the Moon shone very bright, I was so much the more confident, and went up, and looked too a little upon the Sea, which was now exceeding calm; and thus ha­ving good opportunity to consider bet­ter of Astronomy, I found that this pre­sent Night there would happen such a conjunction of the Planets, the like to which was not otherwise suddenly to be observed. Now having looked a good while into the Sea, and it being just a­bout [Page 142] Midnight, as soon as it had struck Twelve, I beheld from far the seven Flames passing over Sea hitherward, and betakeing themselves to the top of the Spire of the Tower. This made me somewhat affraid; for as soon as the Flames had setled themselves, the Winds arose, and began to make the Sea very Tempestuous. The Moon al­so was Covered with clouds, and my joy ended with such fear, that I had scarce time enough to hit upon the Stairs again, and betake my self again to the Tower. Now whether the Flames tarried any longer, or passed a­way again, I cannot say: For in this obscurity I durst no more venture a­broad: So I laid me down upon my Mattress, and there being besides in the Laboratory a pleasant and gently purling Fountain, I fell a Sleep so much the sooner. And thus this fifth day too was concluded with Wonders.

The Sixth Day.

NExt morning, after we had awak­ed one another, we sate together Desine [...] dub [...]ae opi­niones. a while to discourse what might yet be the event of things. For some were of opinion that they should all be inlivened again together. Others contradicted it, because the decease of the ancients was not only to restore life, but increase too to the young ones. Some imagined that they were not put to death, but that others were beheaded in their stead. We having now talked together a pret­ty while. in comes the Old Man to us, and first saluting us, looks about him to see if all things were ready, and the processes enough done. We had herein so behaved our selves, that he had no Custors. fault to find with our diligence, where­upon he placed all the Glasses together, pyrotechnia hospitum laudatur and put them into a case. Presently come certain youths bringing with them some Ladders, Roapes, and large Wings, pueri armiteri. which they laid down before us, and departed. Then the old Man began [Page 144] thus. My Dear Sons, one of these three things must each of you this day constantly bear about with him. Now it is free for you either to make a choice of one of them, or to cast lots about it. We replied, we would choose. Nay; said he, let it rather go by lot. Hereupon he made three little Sche­dules, in one he writ Ladder, on the second Rope, on the third Wings; These he laid in an Hat, and each man must draw, and whatever he happened upon, that was to be his. Those who got the Ropes, imagined themselves to be in the best case, but I chanced on a Ladder, which hugely afflicted me, for it was twelve-foot long, and pretty weighty, and I must be forced to carry it, where­as the others could handsomly coyle their Ropes about them▪ and as for the Wings, the old Man joyned them so neatly on to the third sort, as if they had grown upon them. Hereupon he turned the Cock, and then the Foun­rain ran no longer, and we were fain to remove it, from the middle out of the way. After all things were carried off, he taking with him the Casket with the Glasses, took leave, and lock­ed [Page 145] the Door fast after him, so that we im­agined no other but that we had been Ascensus in 2. Con­clave. imprisoned in this Tower. But it was hardly a quarter of an Hour before a round Hole at the very top was uncover­ed, where we saw our Virgin, who cal­led to us, and bad us good Morrow, desiring us to come up. They with the Wings were instantly above through the hole. Only they with the Ropes were in evil plight. For as soon as e­ver one of us was up, he was command­ed to draw up the Ladder to him. At Restis difficult [...]s last each mans Rope was hanged on an Iron Hook, so every one was fain to climb up by his Rope as well as he could, which indeed was not compassed with­out Blisters. Now as soon as we were all well up, the hole was again covered, and we were friendly received by the Virgin. This Room was the whole breadth of the Tower it self, having Six very stately Vestries a little raised above the Room, and to be entred by the ascent of three Steps▪ In these Descriptio 2 Conclav. Vestries we were distributed, there to pray for the Life of the King and Queen, mean while the Virgin went in and out at the little Door a, till we had done. For as soon as our process was absolved, [Page 146] there was brought in, and placed in the middle through the little Door, by twelve persons (which were formerly our Musitians) a wonderful thing of a longish shape, which my Companions took only to be a Fountain. But I well observed that the Corps's lay in it, for the inner Chest was of an oval Figure, so large that six Persons might well lie in it one by another. After which they again went forth, fetched their Instru­ments, and conducted in our Virgin, to­gether with her she-attendants, with a most delicate noise of Musick. The Virgin carried a little Casket, but the The little Casket. rest only Branches, and small Lamps, and some too lighted Torches. The Torches were immediately given into our Hands, and we were to stand about the Fountain in this order.

First stood the Vir­gin Ordo chori. Diagram. A with her at­tendants in a Ring round about with the Lamps & bran­ches c, next stood we with our Torches b, then the Musicians a in a long rank, last [Page 147] of all the rest of the Virgins d in another long rank too. Now whence the Virgins came, or whether they dwelt in the Castle, or whether they were brought in by night, I know not, for all their Faces were covered with delicate white Linnen, so that I could not know any Virgines unde. of them. Hereupon the Virgin open­ed the Casket, in which there was a Quid in ar­ [...]. round thing wrapped up in a piece of green double Taffata. This she laid in the uppermost Kettle, and then cover­ed it with the lid, which was full of holes, and had besides a Rim, on which she poured in some of the Water which we had the day before prepared, whence the Fountain began immediate­ly to run, and through four small Pipe; to drive into the little Kettle; beneath the undermost Kettle there were many sharp points, on which the Virgins stuck their Lamps, that so the heat might come to the Kettle, and make the Wa­ter Seeth. Now the Water beginning to Simper, by many little holes at a, it fell in upon the Bodies, and was so hot, that it dissolved them all, and turned them into Liquor. But what the above said round wrapt up thing was, my Com­panions knew not, but I understood [Page 148] that it was the Moor's Head, from which the Water conceived so great heat. At b round about the great Kettle, there were again many holes, in which they stuck their Branches; now whe­ther Rami lau­ [...]es. this was done of necessity, or only for Ceremony, I know not; However these Branches were continually be­sprinkled by the Fountain, whence it afterwards dropt somewhat of a deepee Yellow into the Kettle. This lasted for near two Hours, that the Fountain still constantly ran of it self; but yet the longer, the fainter it was. Mean time the Musitians went their vvay, and vve walked up and down in the Room; and truly the Room was somade, that we Deliciae in Conclavi had opportunity enough to pass away our time: There was, for Images, Paintings, Clock-works, Organs, Spring­ing Fountains, and the like, nothing forgotten. Now it was near the time that the Fountain ceased, and would run no longer: upon which the Virgin commanded a round Golden Globe to be brought. But at the bottom of the Fountain there was a Tap, by which she let out all the matter that was dis­sovled by those hot Drops (whereof cer­tain [Page 149] quarts were then very Red) into the Globe. The rest of the Water which remained above in the Kettle, was poured out. And so this Fountain (which was now become much lighter) was again carried forth. Now whe­ther it was opened abroad; or whether any thing of the Bodies that was fur­ther useful, yet remained, I dare not certainly say: But this I know, that the Water that was emptied into the Globe was much heavier then six, or yet Gravitas aquae. more of us were well able to bear, al­beit for its bulk it should have seemed not too heavy for one man. Now this Globe being with much ado gotten out of Doors, we again sate alone. But I perceiving a trampling over head, had an Eye to my Ladder. Hear one might take notice of the strange opini­ons my Companions had concerning this Fountain: For they not imagining but Autor [...]o [...], novit vere quae ag [...]r [...] tur. that the Bodies lay in the Garden of the Castle, knew not what to make of this kind of working, but I thanked God that I awaked in so opportune a time, and saw that which helped me the better in all the Virgins business. After one quarter of an hour the cover [Page 150] above was again lifted of, and we com­manded Ascenses in 3. Conclave. to come up, which was done as before vvith Wings, Ladders, and Ropes. And it did not a little vex me, that vvhereas the Virgins could go up another vvay, vve vvere fain to take so much toil; yet I could vvell iudge there must be some special reason in it, and vve must leave somevvhat for the Old Man to do too. For even those vvith the Wings had no advan­tage by them but vvhen they vvere to mount through the Hole. Novv being gotten up thither also, and the Hole shut again, I savv the Globe hanging by Descriptio conclaves. a strong Chain in the middle of the Room. In this Room vvas nothing else but meer Windovvs, and still betvveen two Windows there vvas a Door, vvhich vvas covered vvith nothing but a great polished Looking-Glass; and these Windovvs and Looking-Glasses were so optically opposed one to another, that although the Sun (vvhich novv shined exceeding bright) beat only up­on Art. [...] optic. one Door, yet (after the Windovvs tovvards the Sun vvere opened, and the Doors before the Looking-Glasses dravvn aside) in all quarters of the [Page 151] Room there vvas nothing but Suns, vvhich by artificial Refractions beat upon the vvhole golden Globe hanging in the midst; and for as much as the same (besides that brightness) vvas polished, it gave such a Lustre, that none of us could open our Eyes, but vvere there­fore forced to look out at Windovvs till Mirac. spee. the Globe vvas vvell heated, and brought to the desired effect. Here I may vvell avovv that in these Mirrours I have seen the most vvonderful Specta­cle that ever Nature brought to light▪ for there were Suns in all places, and the Globe in the middle shined yet brighter, so that, but for one twinkling of an Eye, we could no more indure it than the Sun it self. At length the Virgin commanded to shut up the Looking-Glasses again, and to make fast the Windovvs, and so let the Globe cool again a little; and this vvas done about seven of the Clock. Wherefore vve thought good, since vve might novv have leisure a little to refresh our selves vvith a Breakfast: This Treatment again vvas right Philosophical, and vve Prandium Philosoph▪ had no need to be affraid of Intempe­rance, yet vve had no vvant. And the [Page 152] hope of the future joy (vvith vvhich the Virgin continually comforted us) made us so jocond that vve regarded not any pains, or inconvenience. And this I can truly say too concerning my Companions of high quality, that their minds never ran after their Kitchin or Table, but their pleasure vvas only to attend upon this adventurous Phisick, and hence to contemplate the Creator's Wisdom and Omnipotency. After vve had taken our Refection, we again set­tled our selves to work, for the Globe was sufficiently cooled; which with toil and labour we vvere to lift off the Chain and set upon the Floor. Now the dispute was how to get the Globe in funder, for we were commanded to divide the same in the midst. The con­clusion was that a sharp pointed Dia­mond would best do it. Now when we Resolutio Globe. had thus opened the Globe, there was nothing of redness more to be seen, but a lovely great snovv-vvhite Egg: It most mightily rejoyced us, that this was so vvell brought to pass. For the Vir­gin vvas in perpetuall care, least the Shell might still be too tender. We stood round about this Egg as jocond as [Page 153] if vve our selves had laid it. But the Virgin made it presently be carried Ovum can­didum. forth, and departed her self too from us again, and (as all vvays) locked the Door to. But vvhat she did abroad vvith the Egg, or vvhether it vvere some vvay privately handled, I knovv not, neither do I believe it. Yet vve vvere again to pause together for one quarter of an hour, till the third hole vvere opened, and vve by means of our instruments vvere come upon the fourth Stone or Floor. In this Room vve 4. Conclave found a great Copper Kettle filled vvith yellow Sand, vvhich vvas vvarmed vvith a gentle Fire, aftervvards the Egg vvas raked up in it, that it might therein come to perfect maturity. This Kettle vvas exactly square, upon one side stood these tvvo verses, Writ in great Leters.

On the second side vvere these three Words.

The third had no more but this one Word.

But on the hinder most part stood an intire Inscription running thus.

Now whether the Sand or Egg were hereby meant, I leave to the learned to dispute, yet do I my part, and omit nothing undeclared. Our Egg being [Page 155] now ready was taken out; But it need­ed no cracking, for the Bird that was in it soon freed himself, and shewed him­self very jocond, yet he looked very Bloody and unshapen: We first set him Pullus im­plumis. upon the warm Sand, so the Virgin commanded, that before we gave him any thing to eat, we should be sure to make him fast, otherwise he would give Vincitur. us all work enough. This being done too, food was brought him, which sure­ly was nothing else than the Blood of the Pascitur. sanguine decollator­um. Beheaded, deluted again with prepared water, by which the Bird grew so fast under our eyes, that we well saw why the Virgin gave us such warning of him. He bit and scratcht so devillishly about him, that could he have had his will up­on any of us, he would soon have dis­patched him. Now he was wholly black, and wild, wherefore other meat was brought him, perhaps the blood of a­nother Sauguine. alius Regis pascitur. of the Royal Persons, whereupon all his black Feathers moulted again, and instead of them there grew but Snow- white-Feathers. He was somewhat tamer too, and suffered himself to be more tractable, nevertheless we did not yet trust him. At the third feed­ing [Page 156] his Feathers began to be so curiously Iridescit. coloured, that in all my Life I never saw the like colours for Beauty. He was al­so exceeding tame, and behaved him­self so friendly with us, that (the Vir­gin Liberatur. vinculis. consenting) we released him from his Captivity. 'Tis now reason (began our Virgin) since by your diligence, and our old man's consent, the Bird has attained both his Life, and the highest Perfection, that he be also joyfully Consecrated by us. Herewith she commanded to bring in Dinner, and that we should again re­fresh our selves, since the most trouble­some part of our Work was now over, and it was sit we should begin to enjoy our passed Labours. We began to make our selves merry together. Hovvbeit we had still all our Mourning Cloaths on, which seemed somewhat reproach­ful to our Mirth. Novv the Virgin was perpetually inquisitive, perhaps to find to which of us her future purpose Primus [...] ­sus eius. might prove serviceable. But her dis­course was for the most part about melt­ing; and it pleased her well vvhen any one seemed expert in such compendious Manuals, as do peculiarly commend an [...] Artist. This Dinner lasted not above [Page 157] three quarters of an hour, which vve yet for the most part spent with our Bird, vvhom vve were fain constantly to feed with his meat: But he still con­tinued much at the same growth. Af­ter Dinner vve vvere not long suffered to digest our Meat, but after that the Virgin together with the Bird was de­parted from us. The fifth Room was 5. Conclave. set open to us, whither we got too af­ter the former manner, and tendred our Service. In this Room a Bath was pre­pared Avis bal­neum. for our Bird, which was so co­loured with a fine white Powder, that it had the appearance of meer Milk. Now it was at first cool when the Bird was set into it: He was mighty well pleased with it, drinking of it, and pleasantly sporting in it. But after it began to heat by reason of the Lamps that were placed under it, vve had e­nough to do to keep him in the Bath, vve therefore clapt a cover on the Ket­tle, and suffered him to thrust his head out through a hole, till he had in this sort lost all his Feathers in this Bath, and vvas as smooth as a nevv-born Child, yet the heat did him no further harm, at vvhich I much marvelled; for [Page 158] in this Bath the Feathers were quite con­sumed, and the Bath vvas thereby tin­ged into blew; at length vve gave the Bird air, vvho of himself sprung out of the Kettle, and was so glitteringly smooth, that it vvas a pleasure to be­hold it. But because he vvas still some­what wild, vve were fain to put a col­lar, Vincitur. with a Chain, about his Neck, and so led him up and down the Room. Mean time a strong Fire vvas made under the Kettle, and the Bath sodden away till Bal [...]cum conquitur in [...]pidem. it all came to a blew Stone, which vve took out, and having first pounded it, vve vvere afterwards fain to grind it on a Stone, and finally vvith this co­lour to paint the Bird's whole Skin over: Novv he lookt much more strangely, for he vvas all blew, except the head, vvhich remained white. Herewith our work on this Story too vvas performed; And we (after the Virgin with her blew Bird was departed from us) were called up through the hole to the sixth Story: 6. Conclave. which vvas done too, there we were mightily troubled, for in the midst a little Altar, every way like that in the King's Hall above described, vvas placed. Upon which stood the six fore-mention­ed [Page 159] particulars, and he him self (the Bird) made the seventh. First of all the little Fountain vvas set before him, out of vvhich he drunk a good draught, after­vvards he pecked upon the white Serpent until she bled mightily. This Blood vve vvere to receive into a Golden Cup, and pour it dovvn the Birds Throat, vvho vvas mighty averse from it, then vve dipt the Serpents head in the Foun­tain, upon vvhich she again revived, and crept into her Deaths-head, so that I savv her no more for a long time after. Mean time the Sphere turned constantly on, until it made the desired conjunction. Immediately the watch Struck one, upon which there was a going another conjun­ction. Then the Watch struck two. Fin­ally, whilst we were observing the third conjunction, and the same vvas indica­ted by the Watch, the poor Bird of himself submissively laid dovvn his Neck upon the Book, and vvillingly suffered his Head (by one of us thereto chosen A [...] de [...]tur. by lot) to be smitten off. Hovvbeit he yielded not one drop of Blood, till he vvas opened on the Breast, and then the Blood spun out so fresh and clear as if it had been a Fountain of Rubies. His [Page 160] Death vvent to the heart of us, and yet vve might vvell judge, that a naked Bird vvould stand us in little stead. So we let it rest, and removed the little Altar away and assisted the Virgin to burn the Avis combu­ritur. Body (together with the little Tablet hanging by) to Ashes, with Fire kind­led at the little Taper; afterwards to cleanse the same several times, and to lay them in a Box of Cypress Wood. Here I cannot conceal what a trick I Jocus. and three more were served▪ After we had thus diligently taken up the Ashes, The Virgin began to speak thus. My Lords, we are here in the sixth Room, and have only one more before us, in which our trouble will be at an end, and then we shall return home again to our Castle, to awaken our most gratious Lords and Ladies. Now albeit I could heartily wish, that all of you, as you are here together, had behaved your selves in such sort, that I might have given you Commendations to our most renowned King and Queen, and you have obtained a suitable Reward; yet because, contrary to my desire, I have found amougst you these four (herewith she pointed at me and three more) lazy and sluggish Labourators, and yet according to my good-will to all and [Page 197] every one, am not willing to deliver them up to condign punishment; However, that such Negligence may not remain wholly unpunish­ed, I am purposed thus concerning them, that they shall only be excluded from the future seventh and most Glorious action of all the rest, and so too they shall incur no fur­ther blame from their Royal Majesties. In what a case we now were at this Speech, I leave others to consider: For the Vir­gin so well knew how to keep her coun­tenance, that the Water soon ran over our Baskets, and we esteemed our selves the most unhappy of all men. After this the Virgin by one of her Maids (whereof there were many always at hand) caused the Musitians to be fetcht▪ who where with Cornets to blow us out of Doors with such scorn and derision, that they themselves could hardly sound for laughing. But it did particularly migh­tily afflict us that the Virgin so vehement­ly laughed at our weeping, anger & impa­tience, and that there might well perhaps be some amongst our Companions who were glad of this our misfortune. But it proved otherwise. For as soon as we Commod [...] ejoco. were come out at the Door, the Musi­tians bid us be of good cheere and fol­low [Page 198] them up the winding Staires; They led us up to the seventh Floor un­der 8. conclave. the Roof, where we found the old Man, whom we had not hitherto seen, standing upon a little round Furnace. He received us friendly, and heartily congratulated us, that we were hereto chosen by the Virgin; but after he un­derstood the affright we had conceived, his belly was ready to burst with Laugh­ing, that we had taken such good For­tune so hainously. Hence said he, My Dear Sons learn, That Man never know­eth how well God intendeth him. During this discourse the Virgin also with her little Box came running in, who (after she had sufficiently laughed at us) emp­tied her Ashes out into another Vessel, and filled hers again with other matter, Virgo Lucif Iudit c [...] ros. saving, she must now go cast a Mist be­fore the other Artists Eyes, that we in the mean time should obey the old Lord in whatsoever he commanded us, and not remit our former diligence. Here­with she departed from us into the se­venth 7. Conclave. Room whither she called our Companions. Now what she first did with them there, I cannot tell, for they were not only most earnestly forbidden [Page 199] to speak of it, but we too by reason of our business, durst not peep on them through the Cieling. But this was our Verus labo [...] [...]u [...] [...]ct [...]. work, we were to moisten the Ashes with our fore-prepared Water till they became altogether like a very thin Dough. After which we set the matter over the Fire, till it was well heated, then we cast it thus hot as it was into two little forms or moulds, and so let it cool a little (here we had leisure to look a while Labor sp [...] ­ri [...] in 7▪ conclavi. upon our Companions through certain crevises made in the Floor) they were now very busie at a Furnace, & each was himself fain to blow up the Fire with a pipe, and they stood thus blowing about it, as if they were ready to loose their breath. Howbeit, they imagined they were herein wondrously preferred be­fore us. And this blowing lasted so long till our old Man rouzed us to our work again; So that I cannot say what was done afterwards. We having opened our little forms, there appeared two beautiful bright and almost Trans­parent Ho [...]uuc [...] duo. little Images, the like to which Mans Eye never saw, a Male and a Fe­male, each of them only four inches long; and that which most mightily [Page 200] surprised me, was, that they were not hard, but limber and fleshy, as other human Bodies, yet had they no Life: So that I do most assuredly believe that the Lady Venus's Image was also made after some such way. These Angeli­cally fair Babes we first laid upon two little Sattin Cushonets, and beheld them a good while, till we were almost besotted upon so exquisite an object. Pas [...]ntur sanguine avis. The old Lord warned us to forbear, and continually to instill the Bood of the Bird (which had been received into a little Golden Cup) drop after drop into the Mouths of the little Images, from whence they apparently to the Eye encreased; and whereas they were be­fore very small, they were now (ac­cording to proportion) much more beautiful; so that worthily all Limners ought to have been here, and have been ashamed of their Art in respect of these productions of Nature. Now they began to grow so big, that we lifted from the little Cushonets, and were fain to lay them upon a long Table, which was covered with white Velvet. The old man also commanded us to cover them over up to the Breast with a piece [Page 201] of fine white double Taffata, which be­cause of their unspeakable beauty, almost Pulcherei­mus. went against us; but that I may be brief, before we had in▪ this manner quite spent the Blood, they were alrea­dy in their perfect full growth, they had Gold-yellow curled Hair, and the above-mentioned figure of Venus was nothing to them. But there was not yet any natural warmth, or sensibility in them, they were dead Figures, yet of a lively and natural colour: and since care was to be taken that they grew not too great, the old Man would not permit any thing more to be given them, but quite covered their Faces too with the Silk, and caused the Table to be stuck round about with Torches▪ Here I must warn the Reader that he ima­gine not these Lights to have been of necessity, for the old Man's intent hereby, was only that we should not observe when the Soul entred into them, as in­deed we should not have taken notice of it, in case I had not twice before seen the Flames; However, I permitted the other three to remain in their be­lief, neither did the old Man know that I had seen any thing more. Here­upon [Page 202] he bid us sit down on a Bench over against the Table: presently the Virgin came in too with the Musick and Ves [...]untur. all furniture, and carried two curious white Garments, the like to which I had never seen in the Castle, neither can I describe them, for I thought no other but that they were meer Christal, but they were gentle, and not transpa­rent, so that I cannot speak of them: These she laid down upon a Table, and after she had disposed her Virgins upon a Bench round about, she and the old Man began many Leger-demain tricks about the Table, which was done Spectatores luduntur. only to Blind us. This (as I told you) was managed under the roof, which was wonderfully formed, for on the in­side Descriptio recti. it was arched into seven Hemisphe­res, of which the middlemost was some­what the highest, and had at top a lit­tle round hole, which was nevertheless shut, and was observed by none else. After many Ceremonies, stept in six Vir­gins, each of which bare a large Trum­pet, which were rouled about with a green glittering and burning material like a wreath, one of which the old Man took, and after he had removed [Page 203] some of the lights at top, and uncove­red their Faces, he placed one of the Trumpets upon the Mouth of one of the Bodies in such manner, that the upper and wider part of it was directed just against the forementioned hole. Here my Companions always looked upon Usus tuba­rum. the Images; but I had other thoughts; for as soon as the foliage or wreath about the shank of the Trumpet was kindled, I saw the hole at top open, and a bright (Forté ex [...]lo veni­ [...]s) stream of Fire shooting down the Tube, and passing into the Body: whereupon the hole was again covered, and the Trumpet removed. With this device my Companions were deluded, so that they imagined that life came into the Image by means of the Fire of the foli­age, for as soon as he received the Soul Homonculi animatra­lio trans­feruntur. he twinckled with his Eyes, howbeit he scarce stirred. The second time he placed another Tube upon its Mouth, and kindled it again, and the Soul was let down through the Tube. This was repeated upon each of them three times, after which all the Lights were exstin­guished and carried away. The Velvet Carpets of the Table were cast toge­ther over them, and immediately a tra­villing [Page 204] Bed was unlocked and made rea­dy, into which thus wrapped up they were born, and so after the Carpets were taken off them, they were neatly laid by each other, where with the Cur­tains drawn before them, they slept a good while. (Now was it also time for the Virgin to see how our other Artists de 7. concl. behaved themselves, they were well plea­sed, because (as the Virgin afterwards informed me) they were to work in Gold, which is indeed a piece also of this art, but not the most Principal, most necessa­ry, and best: They had indeed too a part▪ of these Ashes, so that they ima­aginied no other, but that the whole Bird was provided for the sake of Gold, and that life must thereby be restored to the deceased) during which we sate very still, attending when our married couple would awake, thus about half an hour was spent. For then the wanton Cupid presented himself again, and, af­ter Homunculi excitantur a cupidi [...]e. he had saluted us all, flew to them behind the Curtain, tormenting them so long till they awaked. This happened to them with very great amazement, for [...]l [...]uer [...]nt. [...]lli qui de­ [...]lla ba [...] ­ [...]ur. they imagined no other but that they had hitherto slept from the very hour [Page 205] in which they were beheaded. Cupid, after he had awaked them, and renew­ed their acquaintance one with another, stepped a side a little, and permitted them both somewhat better to recruis themselves, mean time playing his tricks with us; and at length he would needs have the Musick fetcht to be somewhat the merrier. Not long after the Virgin her self comes: And after she had most humbly saluted the young King and Queen (who found themselves some­what faint) and kissed their hands, she Conjugés induunt vestiments [...] se conspi­ciendos prae­bea [...]t. brought them the two forementioned curious Garments, which they put on, and so stepped forth. Now there were already prepared two very curious Chaires, wherein they placed them­selves: and so were by us with most profound Reverence congratulated; for which the King in his own Person most gratiously returned his thanks, and again re-assured us of all Grace. It was already about five of Clock, where­fore they could make no longer stay, but as soon as ever the chiefest of their Conjuges ve­huntur tra [...] mare. furniture could be laden, we were to attend the young Royal Persons down the winding Stairs, through all Doors [Page 206] and watches unto the Ship, in which they inbarqued themselves, together with certain Virgins, and Cupid, and sailed so mighty swift that we soon lost sight of them, yet they were met (as I was informed) by certain stately Ships; Thus in four Hours time they had made many Leagues out at Sea. After Mosick. five of Clock the Musitians were char­ged to carry all things back again to the Ships, and to make themselves ready for the Voyage. But because this was somewhat long a doing, the old Lord Custos senex. commanded forth a party of his con­cealed Soldiers, who had hitherto been Turris custo­dita a militi­bus. planted in the Wall, so that we had ta­ken no notice of any of them, whereby I observed that this Tower was well provided against opposition. Now these Soldiers made quick work with our stuff, so that no more remained further to be done, but to go to Gupper. Now the Table being compleatly fur­nished, the Virgin brings us again to Coena. Ho­spites de 7. et 8. conclavi comestantur. our Companions vvhere vve vvere to carry our selves as if vve had truly been in a Lamentable condition, and forbear laughing. But they vvere alvvays smiling one upon another, [Page 207] hovvbeit some of them too simpathized vvith us. At this Supper the old Lord vvas vvith us too, vvho vvas a most sharp Inspector over us: For none could Custos est in­spector. propound any thing so discreetly, but that he knevv hovv either to confute it, or amend it, or at least to give some good document upon it. I learned most Laus hujus senis. by this Lord, and it vvere very good that each one would apply himself to him, and take notice of his procedure▪ for then things would not so often, and so untowardly Miscarry. After we had taken our nocturnal refection, the old Lord led us into his Closets of Ra­rities, which were here and there dis­persed The old Mans Closets amongst the Bulworks, vvhere we saw such wonderful productions of Nature, and other things too which mans vvit in imitation of Nature had invented, that we needed a Year more sufficiently to surveigh them: Thus we spent a good part of the Night by Can­dle-light. At last, because we were more inclined to Sleep than see many Rarities, we were lodged in Rooms in the Wall, where we had not only costly good Beds, but also besides extraordina­ry handsom Chambers, which made [Page 208] us the more wonder why we were the day before forced to undergo so many hardships. In this Chamber I had good rest; and being for the most part with­out care, and weary with continual La­bour, the gentle rushing of the Sea help­ed me to a sound and sweet Sleep, for I continued in one Dream from eleven Somnium. prolixum. of Clock till eight in the morning.

The Sventh Day.

AFter eight of clock I awaked, and quickly made my self ready, be­ing desirous to return again into the Tower, but the dark passages in the Wall were so many, and various, that I wandred a good while before I could find the way out. The same happened to the rest too, till at last we all met a­gain Hospites deponunt vestes lugu­bres. in the neather most Vault, and ha­bits intirely yellow were given us, toge­ther with our golden Flecces. At that time the Virgin declared to us that we were Knights of the Golden Stone, of Salutantur Equites. which we were before ignorant. Af­ter we had now thus made our selves ready, and taken our Breakfast, the [Page 209] old Man presented each of us with a Don [...]tu [...] á sens. medal of Gold; on the one side stood these Words, ‘AR. NAT. MI. Ars natura ministra Temporis natura filia.’ On the other these, ‘TEM. NA. F.’ Exhorting us moreover we should entreprize nothing beyond and against this token of remembrance. Herewith we went forth to the Sea, where our Ships lay so richly equipped, that it was not well possible but that such brave things must first have been brought thither. The Ships were twelve in num­ber, six of ours, and six of the old Lord's, who caused his Ships to be freighted with well appointed Soldiers. But he be took himself, to us, into our Ship, Navis 1. where we all were together; In the first the Musitians Seated themselves, of which the old Lord had also a great number, they sailed before us to shorten the time. Our Flags were the twelve Vexilla 12. sign. Navis auto­ris libra. Horolog. Caelestial Signs, and we sate in Libra; besids other things, our Ship had also a noble and curious Clock, which shewed [Page 210] us all the Minutes. The Sea too was so calm, that it was a singular pleasure to Sail. But that which surpassed all the rest, was the old Man's discourse, who so [...]acundia sents. well knew how to pass away our time with wonderful Histories, that I could have been content to Sail with him all Obviatio [...]x arce. my Life long. Mean time the Ships passed on amain, for before we had sail­ed two hours the Mariner told us that he already saw the whole Lake almost covered with Ships, by which we could conjecture they were come out to meet us, which also proved true: For as soon, as we were gotten out of the Sea into the Lake by the sorementioned Ri­ver, there presently stood in to us five hundred Ships, one of which sparkled with mere Gold and pretious Stones, 500 Naves in which sate the King and Queen, to­gether with other Lords, Ladies, and Virgins of high Birth. As soon as they were well in Ken of us the pieces were discharged on both sides, and there was such a din of Trumpets, Shalms, and Kettle Drums that all the Applausus. Ships upon the Sea capered again. Final­ly, as soon as we came near they brought about our Ships together, and [Page 211] so made a stand, Immediately the old Atlas stepped forth on the King's be­half, making a short, but handsom oration, wherein he wellcomed us, Atlas ora­tione exci­pit hospites. and demanded whether the Royal Pre­sents were in readiness. The rest of my Companions were in an huge amazement, whence this King should arise, for they imagined no other but that they must again awaken him. We suffered them to continue in their won­derment, and carried our selves as if it seemed strange to us too. After Atlas's oration our steps our old Man, making somewhat a larger reply, wherein he Atlanti responde [...] sene [...]. wished the King and Queen all happi­ness and increase, after which he deli­vered Regiis con­jugibus do­num affert Cupido. up a curious small Casket, but what was in it, I know not; only it was commited to Cupid, who hovered between them both to keep. After the oration was finished, they again let off a joyful Volle of Shot, and so we sailed on a good time together, till at length we arrived at another Shore. This was near the first Gate at which I first entred: At this place again there attended a great Multitude of the King's Family together with some hundreds of [Page 212] Horses. Now as soon as we were come to shore, and disembarqued, the King and Queen presented their Hands to all of us one with another with singu­lar kindness; and so we were to get up on Horseback. Here I desire to have the Reader friendly intreated not to interpret the following Narration to any vain glory or pride of mine, but to credit me thus far, that if there had not been a special necessity in it, I could very well have utterly concealed this honour which was shewed me. We Honor de­latus. Aut [...]ri Cum sene equitat j [...]x­ [...]a Regem. were all one after another distributed amongst the Lords. But our old Lord, and I most unworthy, were to ride even with the King, each of us bearing a snow white Ensign, with a Red Cross: I indeed was made use of because of my Age, for we both had long grey Beards, and Hair. I had besides fastened my tokens round about my Hat, of which the young King soon took notice, and demanded if I were he, who could at the Gate redeem these tokens? I answered in most humble manner, Yea. But he Tesseras sol vit sale et aqua. laughed on me, saying, There hence­forth needed no Ceremony; I was HIS Father. Then he asked me, Wherewith Pater. [Page 213] I had redeemed them; I replied, with Wa­ter Tessers [...]ovia sale & aqua. and Salt: whereupon he wondred who had made me so wise; upon which I grew somewhat more confident, and recounted unto him how it had happen­ed to me with my Bread, the Dove, and the Raven, and he was pleased with it, and said expresly, That it must needs be, that God had herein vouchsafed me a sin­gular happiness. Herewith we came to the first gate where the Porter with the blew Cloaths waited, who bare in his Hand a supplication. Now as soon as he spied me even with the King, he delivered me the supplication, most humbly beseeching me to mention his ingenuity towards me before the King: Now in the first Primus Custos fol▪ 26. quis. Ob visa [...] enere [...] factus por­titor. place I demanded of the King, what the condition of this Porter was? who friend­ly answered me, That he was a very famous and rare Astrologer, and always in high re­gard with the Lord his Father. But having on a time committed a fault against Venus, and beheld her in her Bed of rest, This punish­ment was therefore imposed upon him▪ that he should so long wait at the first Ga [...]e, till some one should release him from thence. I repli­ed, may he then be released? Yes, said the King, if any one can be found that hath as [Page 214] highly transgressed as himself, he must stand Autor ejus dem delicti reus prodi­tur a porti­ [...]re. in his stead, and the other shall be free. This word went to my Heart, for my Consci­ence convinced me that I was the offend­er, yet I held my peace, & herewith delivered the supplication. As soon as he had read it, he was mightily terrified, so that the Queen, who (with our Virgins, and that other Queen besides, of whom I made mention at the hanging of the Weights) rid just behind us observed it, & therefore asked him, what this Letter might signi [...]. But he had no mind that he should take notice of it, but putting up the Paper, began to discourse of other matters, till thus in about three hours time we came quite to the Castle, where we alighted, and waited upon the King Actos [...]. into his forementioned Hall. Immedi­ately the Kng called for the old Atlas to come to him in a little Closet, and shew­ed him the writing, who made no long tarrying, but rid out again to the Por­ter to take better Cognizance of the matter. After which the young King with his Spouse, and other Lords, La­dies and Virgins sate down. Then [...] began our Virgin highly to commend the diligence we had used, and the [Page 215] pains and labour we had undergone, requesting we might be royally reward­ded, and that she henceforward might be permitted to enjoy the benefit of her commission. Then the old Lord stood up too, and attested that all that the Virgin had spoken was true, and that it was but equity that we should on both both parts be contented. Hereupon we were to step out alittle; and it was concluded that each man should make some possible wish, and accordingly ob­tain it; for it was not to be doubted, but that those of understanding would also make the best wish: So we were to consider of it till after Supper. Mean Ludus Re­gis cum Re­gi [...]. time the King and Queen for recrea­tions sake, began to fall to play toge­ther. It looked not unlike Chesse, on­ly it had other Laws; for it was the Vertues and Vices one against another, where it might ingeniously be observed with what Plots the Vices lay in wait for the Vertues, and how to re-encoun­ter them again. This was so proper­ly Ar [...] and artificially performed, that it were to be wished, that we had the like game too. During the game, in comes Atlas again, and makes his re­port [Page 216] in private, yet I blushed all over. For my Conscience gave me no rest; after which the King presented me the supplication to read, the Contents Supplicatio portitoris traditum Auto [...]i. whereof were much to this purpose: First he wished the King prosperity, and increase; that his seed might be spread abroad far and wide: After­wards he remonstrated that the time was now accomplished, wherein accor­ding to the Royal promise he ought to be released. Because Venus was alrea­dy uncovered by one of his Guests, for his observations could not lie to him. And that if his Majesty would please to make a strict and diligent enquiry, he would find that she had been uncove­red, and in case this should not prove so to be, he would be content to re­main before the Gate all days of his life. Then he sued in the most hum­ble manner, that upon peril of Body and Life he might be permitted to be present at this Nights supper, he was in good hopes to spye out the very Of­fendor, and obtain his wished freedom. This was expresly and handsomly indicted, by which I could well per­ceive his ingenuity, but it was too [Page 217] sharp for me, and I could well have endured never to have seen it. Now I was casting in my mind whether he might perchance be helped through my wish, so I asked the King, whether he might not be released some other way? No, replyed the King, because there is a special consideration in the business. However, for this Night, we may well gratifie him in his desire▪ so he sent one forth to fetch him in. Mean time the Tables were prepared in a spatious Room, in which we had never been be­fore, which was so compleat, and in Triclinium precio [...]s [...] ­mum. such manner contrived, that it is not possible for me only to begin to describe it. Into this we were conducted with singular Pomp, and Ceremony. Cupid Cupido ira­tus ob Ve­nerum vilarn ab autore. was not at this time present. For (as I was informed) the disgrace which had happened to his Mother, had somewhat angred him. In brief, my offence, and the Supplication which was delivered were an occasion of much sadness, for Etiam Rex condoi [...]t. the King was in perplexity how to make inquisition amongst his Guests, and the more because thus even they too, who were yet ignorant of the matter, would come to the knowledge [Page 218] of it. So he caused the Porter himself, who was already come, to make his strict surveigh, and shewed himself as pleasant as he was able. Howbeit at length they began again to be merry, and to bespeak one another with all Laetitia di­ [...]cumben­tium. sorts of recreative and profitable dis­courses. Now how the treatment and other Ceremonies were then perform­ed, it is not necessary to declare, since it is neither the Reader's concern, nor serviceable to my design. But all ex­ceeded more in art, and human inven­tion, than that we were overcharged with drinking. And this was the last, and noblest Meal at which I was pre­sent. After the Bancket the Tables were suddainly taken away, and cer­tain curious Chairs placed round about in circle, in which we together with the King, and Queen, both their old Men, the Ladies and Virgins, were to sit. After which a very handsom Page opened the above mentioned glorious little Book, when Atlas immediately placing himself in the midst, began to bespeak us to the ensuing purpose. That his Royal Majesty had not yet commit­ted to oblivion the service we had done [Page 219] him, and how carefully we had attend­ed our duty, and therefore by way of retribution had elected all and each of us Knights of the Golden Stone. That it was therefore further necessary not only once again to oblige our selves to­wards his Royal Majesty, but to vow too upon the following Articles, and then his Royal Majesty would likewise know how to behave himself towards his liege People. Upon which he caused the Page to read over the Arti­cles▪ which were these.

• I. You my Lords the Knights, shall swear, that you shall at no time ascribe your order either unto any Devil, or Spirit, but only to God your Creator, and his hand-maid Nature.
• II. That you will Abominate all Whoredom, Incontinency and Un­cleaness, and not defile your order with such Vices.
• III. That you through your Talents will be ready to assist all that are wor­thy, and have need of them.
• [Page 220]IV. That you desire not to employ this honour to wordly Pride and high Authority.
• V. That you shall not be willing to live longer than God will have you.

At this last Article we could not choose but laugh sufficiently, and it may well have been placed after the rest, only for a conceit. Now being to vow to them all by the King's Scepter, Privilegia. we were afterwards with the usual Ceremonies installed Knights, and amongst other Priviledges set over Ig­norance, Poverty, and Sickness; to handle them at our pleasure. And this was afterwards ratified in a little Chappel (whither we were conducted in all Pro­cession) and thanks returned to God for it. Where I also at that time to the honour of God hung up my Golden Fleece and Hat, and left them there for an eternal memorial. And because every one was there to write his Name. I writ thus;

Others writ otherwise, and truly each I am [...] as seemed him good. After which we were again brought into the Hall, where being sate down, we were ad­monished quickly to be think our selves what every one would wish. But the King and his party retired into a little Closet, there to give audience to our wishes. Now each man was called in severally, so that I cannot speak of any man's proper wish, I thought nothing could be more praise-worthy than in honour of my order to demonstrate some laudable vertue. And found too that none at present could be more famous, and cost me more Prouble than Gratitude. Wherefore not regarding Autor op­ [...]at libera­ [...]nem por­ [...]itoris é grati [...] that I might well have wished some­what more dear and agreeable to my self, I vanquished my self, and conclud­ed, even with my own peril, to free the Porter my Benefactor. Wherefore be­ing [Page 222] now called in, I was first of all demanded, whether, having read the Supplication, I had observed, or sus­pected nothing concerning the offen­dor? upon which I began undauntedly to relate how all the business had passed. How through Ignorance I fell into that mistake, and so offered my self to un­dergo all that I had thereby demerited. The King, and the rest of the Lords Aut [...]r reus con [...]itens. wondered mightily at so un-hoped for confession, and so wished me to step aside a little. Now as soon as I was called for in again, Atlas declared to me, that although it were grievous to the King's Majesty, that I whom he loved above others, was fallen into such a mischance, yet because it was not possible for him to Transgress his ancient usages, he knew not how else to absolve me, but that the other must be at Liberty, and I placed in his stead, yet he would hope that some other would soon be apprehended, that so I might be able to go home again. However, no release was to be hoped Audit sen­ [...]entiam. for, till the Marriage Feast of his future Son. This Sentence had near cost me [Page 223] my life, and I first hated my self and my twatling Tongue, in that I could not hold my peace, yet at last I took courage, and because I considered there was no remedy, I related how this Por­ter had bestowed a token on me, and commended me to the other, by whose assistance I stood upon the Scale, and so was made partaker of all the hon­our and joy already received. And Laus benefi­cij portito­ris. therefore now it was but equal that I should shew my self grateful to my Benefactor: and because the same could no way else be done, I returned thanks for the sentence, and was willing gladly to sustain some inconvenience for his sake, who had been helpful to me in coming to so high place. But if by my wish any thing might be effected, I wished my self at home again, and that so he by me, and I by my wish might be at Liberty. Answer was made me, that the wishing stretched not so far. However I might well wish him free. Yet it was very pleasing to his Royal Majesty, that I had behaved my self so generously herein, but he [Page 224] was affraid I might still be ignorant, Laud [...] Rege. into what a miserable condition I had plunged my self through this my cu­riosity. Hereupon the good man was pronounced free, and I with a sad heart was fain to step aside. After me the Reliqui laeti evad [...]nt. rest were called for too, who came jocundly out again, which was still more to my smart; for I imagined no other, but that I must finish my life under the Gate. I had also many pen­sive thoughts running up and down in Autor me­lancholisat my Head, what I should yet undertake, and wherewith to spend the time, at length I considered that I was now old, and according to the course of nature, [...]p [...]. had few years more to live: And that this anguish and melancholy Life would Metus. easily dispatch me, and then my door­keeping would be at an end: And that Sol [...]ium. by a most happy Sleep I might quickly bring my self into the Grave. I had sundry of these thoughts. Sometimes it vexed me that I had seen such galant things, and must be robbed of them. Sometimes it rejoyced me that yet be­fore my end I had been accepted to [Page 225] all joy, and should not be forced [...] shamefully to depart. Thus this was the last and worst shock that I sustained: During these my Cogitations the rest were ready. Wherefore after they had received a good night from the King and Lords, each one was conducted into his Lodging. But I most wretched Man had no body to shew me the way, and yet must moreover suffer my self to be tormented, and that I might be certain of my future function, I was Autor de cipit An [...] lum. fain to put on the Ring, which the other had before worn. Finally, the King exhorted me, that since this was now the last time I was like to see him in this manner: I should however be­have my self according to my place, and not against the order: Upon which he took me also in his Arms, and kissed me, all which I so understood, as if in the morning I must sit at my Gate. Now after they had all a while spoken friendly to me, and at last pre­sented their Hands, committing me to the divine protection: I vvas by bo [...] the old Men, the Lord of the Tovver, and Atlas conducted into a glorious Autor dor [...]t cum At­ [...]te et sene [...]stod [...] Turris. [Page 226] Lodging, in vvhich stood three Beds, and each of us lay in one of them, where we yet spent almost tvvo, &c.