THE Mode of writing ones Own Adven­tures, is now so much in Fashion, that I Thought I might, (without the least scruple) make a Pre­sent of Mine to the Publick. For, through the great Noise which they have made in the World, they have been known to so many Persons, that [Page 2]it would be almost impossible, but that some Authors, (as they are in these days very greedy of these sorts of News,) would undertake to publish mine. I will free them from that trou­ble; And though some other, more vers'd in the manner of Writing then I am, might perform it with more a­greements, and after a more Polite manner; yet I am very certain that none can relate it with more order, and sincerity then I shall do, which is not the least agreeable, seasoning of these sorts of recitals.

I was born at Madrid, of one of the most Illustrious Families of that Kingdom, and my Father having no more Children but me, he left me at his Death a sufficient Estate, to appear in that Court, in Figure suitable to my Birth. But an inclination of visiting Foreign Countreys, (which is so rare in my Countrey-men,) having seas'd on me, in my very youth, without the liberty of enjoying that satisfacti­on during my Fathers life, I did no [Page 3]sooner find my self Master of my own liberty, but that I design'd to leave the Court of Spain for some years. I was then in my twenty third year, my af­fairs were in very good order; and I having communicated my designs, to some of my principal Relations; I went from Madrid with their con­sent, to begin my Travels through Italy.

There lay at that time two Gal­leys at Barcelonia, that were bound for Naples; I came there with a con­siderable retinue for a Traveller; and every thing concurring with my de­sires, my Voyage was so happy, as to bring me to Naples in eight days of favourable weather. The Duke of N. who govern'd there, in Quality of Vice-Roy; and who was advertis'd of my comming, as an Intimate Friend to my Family, was Ravished with joy at my Arrival, and did give me the kindest reception, that I could ex­pect from his Generosity and Friend­ship.

I found that Court very delight­ful, and filled with divers Persons of Quality; that the Dukes Gallant and Obliging Nature, did draw thither from all parts of Italy; He being the Lord in the World, that most affect­ed all manner of divertisements, and the most Ingenious Contriver of them.

My Relations had sufficiently in­structed me, after what manner I was to conduct my self in that Court; but there is not any thing like the practice, which with some natural inclinations of my own, did make me learn more in eight days experience, then could have been told me in eight Months. I found, that as in all other Courts, Love, or if you please, the Mistresses did Govern; each Courtier being provided with his, after the Dukes ex­ample; and that the time was ill spent there, without some amorous engage­ment; Yet I had no great mind to en­gage my self so soon in any such con­cern; Love Frights young Persons, [Page 5]who know not yet what it is; And besides, I have such an esteem for Li­berty, that I was fully resolved not to part with Mine, but as late as I could.

Many times, by reason that in all the Matches of Divertisment, which were daily repeated, I was the only Person that did not as the rest; I was therefore in a manner oblig'd to en­tertain the Dutchess, and those Ladies of her Retinue, that through disdain, or their ill Fortune, had no share in those Love Gallantries. This at last put into my mind, that I ought at least to pretend Love. I was young, a Stranger, Genteel, having a great Re­tinue, and making a great shew in Expences, which were sufficient quali­fications to gain Ladies with, who would no doubt have receiv'd me on the bare account of Gallantry, as I desired to be; Yet being to fix upon one, I would willingly have chosen one, for which none could have blam [...]d me, there being in my design [Page 6]more of Ambition then of Love. I did cast my Eyes on divers, and if I durst have follow'd my own Inclina­tion, I had not fail'd of adressing my self to the Dukes own Mistress; Who from the very first moment that I have seen her, did appear to me one of the most agreeable Persons of the whole Court. Yet I was not so far gone as to venture to become the Concurrant of so considerable a Rival. All the o­ther Ladies were equally indifferent to me; and be it that the prevention which I had, for Signora Theresia, (so was she nam'd) did leave me but very little inclination for all the rest, or that my time of Love, was not yet come, I knew not on whom to pitch.

Signora Theresia, was a Lady of one of the prime Families of Naples; her Father being dead, the Dutchess, unto whom she was near ally'd, did desire to have her with her; This invitation being both Honourable and Advanta­geous for her, she left the Countrey where she liv'd, some ten Leagues [Page 7]from Naples, and appear'd at Court, as a rising Sun. There was at that time but very few empty Hearts at Court, but as there is never want of such Persons as have a great inclination un­to double dealings; Her Beauty was soon assaulted by divers sighing Lo­vers. The Duke, who was the Man of the World, the most apt to receive any impressions of Love, and who Lov'd the Dutchess but just as much as needed, not to hate her; though she was one of the most Amiable La­dies of Spain, did find such Charms in Theresia, as did sufficiently agree with the desires of his Heart; It is pro­bable that if he could have foreseen, and imagin'd, that an engagement of this nature, would have gone so far as it prov'd at last, and that it would have had such dangerous consequen­ces, he had been just enough to have said some restraint upon his inclina­tions; But as it is usual, Love did not give him time to make all those re­flections, that we have made use [Page 8]of, and he found himself surpriz'd unawares.

The Duke did daily behold There­sia, who never stirr'd from the Dut­chess, who lov'd her as her own Sister. All the kindnesses and endearments, which he did express for her, did pass at first, but for the pure effects of his usual Gallantry; But the Dutchess, who knew best her Husbands Weak­ness, and who had greater cause to observe him then any other had, ha­ving taken notice that all his care for Theresia did daily increase, was not long finding out the true cause there­of. It is very rarely that a Woman deceives her self on that account, they rather alwayes believe a little more then there is in it. She was a pene­trating wit, and of a Jealous Temper, as are generally all the Women of that Countrey. She at least fear'd that this Gallantry with the cares and assi­duity which attended it, would soon be converted into a passion; to pre­vent which she did design to use all [Page 9]the cautiousness and other remedies, that a prudent and discreet Woman should judge necessary. She takes Theresia aside, she tells her all the Gallantries, that the Duke had for­merly been engag'd in, she makes her Husbands unsconstancy, such as had been sufficient to disgust a young Lady less nice then Theresia, if it had come from any other Hand then that of a Wife; and passing from this general discourse unto a secret conference, she told her, that if she had not a great care of her self, the same Misfortune would fall unto her, as had happened unto others; that the Dukes designs were very discernable, and that the whole Court did already look upon her, as on his Mistress. Theresia, who was neither young as to the World, nor a novice in Gallantry, did harken unto the Dutchess whole discourse with an amazement; in which there was much more of affectation then of truth; She had not been the last that had taken notice of the Dukes Amo­rous [Page 10]designs. It is always such a Charming thing for a Woman to be folow'd, and she who had some con­siderable time to spend at Court, she could not be sorry to be belov'd by him that did command in it, that she might have the advantage above all the other Mistresses; Yet she was de­sirous to observe some measure with the Dutchess also, to whom she was oblig'd; and perceiving the Distur­bance which was already in the Dut­chess's mind on that account, she en­deavoured to appease it in telling her that she had not yet preceived any signs of it, that she had look'd upon all that the Duke had done for her, as on so many obliging Testimonies from a Kins-man, and that she should per­ceive by her future conduct, that she had no design of giving her the least cause of Complaint. And in affect from that day she shun'd the Duke, and did ever ill Treat him in the Dutchess's presence; Wayes that ra­ther provoke then allay a Lovers [Page 11]Passion. So suddain a Change in a young Lady, who had a Caracter of a mild disposition, who till then had re­ceived so acceptably all that the Duke had express'd of affection towards her, could not but surprize him, and make him to seek after the Cause of his Change. The Dutchess was the first that he tax'd in his mind, but unwil­ling to make any noise about it, till he had Learn'd from Theresia the ill Offices which his Wife had render'd him, he waited, (not without much impatiency and restlessness,) till the hour in which the Court was wont to walk in the Garden were come, to speak to her about it; The evening was fair, and that day the Court be­ing more numerous then of late, the Duke did hope that with the greater ease he might meet with some oppor­tunity in the Croud of having some private discourse with Theresia. The Dutchess was buisy, with some Ladies in gathering of Flowers; and this young Lady, was at some distance [Page 12]from them, which gave the Duke, (who was upon the Watch,) the op­portunity to accost her. She no sooner did preceive him, but she feign'd to shun him, but it was by withdrawing her self the further from the Company, which the Duke judging to his ad­vantage, he redoubled his pace, and perceiving that she was getting into a close Arbour; he run after her, and with an Air in which he express'd more of Love then of Anger; You use me very cruely to day, sayes he, Madam, If I was not convinc'd that I have not done, and that I am incapable of acting any thing that can displea­sure you, I should intreat you to tell me in what I have fail'd, to beg your Pardon for it; but as all my thoughts and desires, tend but to shew you what esteem I have for your Person, and that I am well assur'd, that when you will be pleas'd to examine me, you will find me, more deserving your Love, then your hatred, I shall only intreat the favour of you, to tell me, [Page 13]who it is, that since this day, has inspir'd you with thoughts so prejudiciable a­gainst me; Theresia with the hast that she had made from the Duke was come in Breathless, having seated her self on a Bench of Turfs, she had let him speak without interuption; but having gathered a little strength, My Lord sais she, with a Languishing air, which her weariness did give her, if you have any esteem for me, make it appear in having no longer that com­plaisance for me as you have had, and intreating me with the same indiffer­ency that you do all the others Ladies at Court, or rather more; neither Seeing nor Speaking to me but as lit­tle as you can, I, Madam, interrupted the Duke with some emotion, that I should be capable of doing what you say; that I should have less respect for you then I have had, and that I should make no distinction betwixt you and the rest of the Women that are here? Rather condemn me to re­nounce that reason that would oblige [Page 14]me to render unto a young Lady as amiable as you are; a Thousand times more services then I doe, and know that all the force that I can impose up-my self, is in abstaining from the per­formance thereof. You have then a design, to ruine me, my Lord, reply'd Theresia. I ruine you Madam, reply'd the Duke again, going back a step or two, Do you know me well? Added he, Looking on her with Eyes full of passion, and can it be possible that since the time that my Eyes speak to you, you should have div'd so little into my Heart? No continu'd he Sighing, you are too clear sighted; and since that it is no longer time for me to dis­guise any thing from you, Learn that my discretion has oblig'd me to conceal till now, which is, that all that can be felt of tenderness and vehement desires in a Soul, I feel from you. How ill you serve me in this, My Lord, interrupted Theresia, and how dear will that ten­derness and vehemency cost me, I fore­see it too well, and you need but to per­sist [Page 15]obstinatly in it, to render me the most miserable Person in the World. In ending these Words, her Eyes became moist, which made her to convey her Handkerchief to them to conceal some Tears; at which the Duke was so sen­sibly touch'd, that being wholly tran­sported with Love, he said; What, has such a Passion as mine is so, full of re­spects, of so dangerous a Nature in it, that you need to fear it so much? You know it, answer'd Theresia, and if you doubt of it continu'd she rising, be­cause that she did see the Dutchess comming with the rest of her com­pany, you will soon be further in­form'd thereof. In this manner she went out o the Arbour to meet the Dutchess who was strangely surpris'd, and did wonderfully change colour, to find her alone with the Duke. I know not, said Theresia to her, smiling, who per­ceiv'd what effect this sight had made on the Dutchess her mind, what you may think to find us together, it see­ming as if there had been something of [Page 16]design in it, and that we had some­thing to say in private one to the other; as for me, I know not well, (answers the Dutchess, with a disdainfull Look,) what I ought to think of it; but you shall ask the rest of the Company, what Judg­ment they make upon it. The Duke, who was touch'd to the quick with his Wives words; Seeing Theresia some­thing at a stand, did answer for her, and looking on the Dutchess with Eyes full of indignation, the Company, (answerd he,) will not have so ill an o­pinion of me as you have; and for having found me alone with a Lady, it will not give it any ill construction; and present­ly taking the Dutchess by the Hand, to prevent the continuation of that discourse, he walk'd with her; but it was saying all that his Amorous resent­ments, could inspire him to utter of most severe against her. The Walk was not long, and through this little noise, those suspicions which part of the Court had of the Dukes inclinati­ons for Theresia, having been wholly [Page 17]confirm'd therein, those that have some Amorous designs upon her, and that were not willing to displease the Duke, did think of withdrawing them­selves towards their former Amours, or to seek out for new ones.

After that, the Duke, in his passion had breathed forth all the rage which Love had suggested to him that night against the Dutchess, he having had leasure to make some Reflections up­on it, did perceive that in that he had not acted like a true Politician, and that he was not in the right way with his Wife, as thus to Imitate her the more against his Mistress. He was de­sirous to repair his fault, and know­ing how to flatter the Dutchess, the next Morning, at his rising, there was not any submission that he did not make to her, in asking her Pardon for all his Passionate expressions; after which he gave her an account of his accidential meeting with Theresia in the Arbour, Protesting that he had no ill design upon her; but that, as she knew [Page 18]very well, seeing that she could not Live without some Diversion, and that if it was not with her it would be with another, he did therefore intreat her (that she might be the less troubled at it,) to give way for him to amuse himself with a young Lady of his Re­lation, (on whom she should daily cast her Eyes,) then with another, whose actions she would not have so much opportunity to observe, and of whom she might be apt to imagine, more then there would be. And I do Conjure you, Answer'd the Dutchess, by all that you owe unto a Wife; who ne­ver had any thoughts in all her life, then of pleasing you, that you would cast your Eyes on any other then my Kins-woman, to whom I could less Pardon so unworthy an Action, then to any Person else. Do all that you please against me, added she, I shall endure it with patience, but grant me the Favour, not to Discourse my Kins-woman; or at least permit her to retire, I conjure you to do it; and if that is not sufficient, continu'd she with [Page 19]Tears in her Eyes, I beg it of you on my Knees. The Duke being mov'd at this his Wifes Action and Tears, he took her up, and assur'd her, that he would do all that she should desire: but that he fear'd she would be the first that would repent it; and that in order to cure him from that small inclination, he should be oblig'd to make new Amours in some other place, which in time might draw to greater consequences, for which she should thank none but her self. The Dutchess having agreed to all that, rather then to see him in Love with Theresia; the Duke went out of his Chamber as if he had no more thoughts of it: and having left his Wife to her Toilet, he immediatly went to the fair Theresia's Chamber, to put in ex­ecution those fair promises which he had newly made to the Dutchess; Where he found her lain upon her Bed, overwhelm'd in Tears, having passed the whole Night in desperate thoughts, on the adventure which had happened unto her the night before [Page 20]in the Garden; The Duke overcomed with Sorrow, to see her in that con­dition; she not having so much as pull'd off her Cloaths that night, he cast himself at her feet, and taking hold of one of her Fair Hands, which he brought to his Eyes, to let her feel that he did accompany her Tears with his, he did conjure her to tell him what she ail'd, thus to afflict her self; and making use of that little time which he had, he did tell her the most passionate things, that Love could suggest unto the tenderest and most transported of Lovers. Theresia, who was yet more fearful then he, least the Dutchess should surprise them, did intreat him to Retire; telling him, that she had such tremblings on her, that she could not feel her self, putting off to some other time, the clearing of that which he desired to know from her; to which the Duke did readily obey; after he had demanded the permition of Wri­ting, since that he was not to see her, as his Passion did incline him to do. [Page 21]He did endeavour, (during some days) to constrain himself before the Dut­chess, and did feigne the re-ingaging of himself in Amours with a certain Lady of whom the Dutchess had formerly been extreamly Jealous, putting him­self to a greater expence of Gallantry then ever, for her sake; but all the world did guess that this was but a pretence, and that those Festivals were celebrated but in Honour to Theresia, who in earnest did not very well re­lish the pleasure of it, she being of an humour rather to Love the publick shew of Gallanty, then to be the se­cret cause of it; and though she might easily perceive, that what the Duke acted in it, was all on her account; there were some certain moments in which she could have wish'd, that his Love had outgone his Craft, and that he might Love her so well as not to prove alwayes so exact a Politician. This would happen to her, chiefly, in publick occasions, where her Mock-Rival, who was an high spirited Wo­man, [Page 22]and perfectly Beauteous, did af­fect to triumph in her presence on all the favours which the Duke bestow'd on her; Insomuch that some time, Theresia, could not forbear having a Grudge against him for it; and this is how she did one day declare her mind in Writing, unto him concern­ing it.

I must consider, Sir, that you are a Person to be admired in the Art of Feig­ning, I could scarce have believ'd it, for you not only perswade those whom you would deceive, but those very Persons al­so that have a hand in the deceit; I in­treat you to continue, for therein you serve me better then I can wish; and to tell you the truth, there is danger in trusting too much; unto such Persons as know too well, as you do, how to dis­guise themselves. Fare well.

The Duke having been surpris'd and as struck with a Thunder-bolt at the Reading of this Letter, was a thousand times on the very point of spoiling, all that divers dayes of an [Page 23]extream violence upon [...] gain'd of advantage on the [...] mind, and of Running to Ther [...] Chamber, to Justifie himself from those reproaches, which that No [...]e did contain; But thinking that it might be in Raillery, that she had Writ to him after this manner, be would not hazard any thing, and did put off till night, when there was to be a Ball in Masquerade, to find an opportunity of clearing that business with her. This Ball was the more magnificent in that all the Courtiers, Lords, and Ladies had been three dayes in preparing them­selves to appear at it, in most sumptu­ous apparel; the Duke whom Love did animate more then all the rest, did not only extend his magnificence on his own Person, but on five or six Gentlemen of his Court also, who were much of his Sise, which he caus'd to be Apparell'd just like himself, the better to deceive the Dutchess, so that he might with more liberty entert [...] the Reuteous Theresia; but all [...] [Page 24]cautions did avail him nothing; the Dutchess who was Mask'd, as were all the rest of the Court Ladies, did pre­sently discern him from the rest, and did follow him so close, that what e­ver he could do, he could never get an opportunity to speak one moment to Theresia; who on her part did not make one step to procure him that satisfaction; so that to rid himself of his Wife, he was forc'd to quit the Ball, and shift his Cloaths, to try whether that would not suceed better. The Dutchess (who notwithstanding all those shifts, which her unkind Husband did use, (was not absolutely cur'd of that Jealousie, which she had had of Theresia, had not so cross'd him, but meerly to prevent his speaking to her; and she had taken good notice of the great desire which he had to do it, and of all the little shifts which he had us'd to that purpose; so that she did no sooner see him go out of the Room, without knowing with what design, but that she intreated Theresia, to pass [Page 25]into the Chamber with her, where be­ing come, she did ingage her; under the pretence of a Frolick, that she would put upon the Duke, to change Cloaths with her. Theresia did very well foresee the Consequence of that business, but she was that day so little pleas'd with the Dukes behaviour, that she was not much concern'd at the putting of the Change upon him.

The Dutchess did presently dress her self in Theresias apparrel; and ha­ving desired her to stay till her return, and also given a private order to all her People, not to let her go forth of the Chamber (in case she should at­tempt it,) she return'd to the Company, where she came just a moment before that the Duke was return'd. These two Ladies were of so exact a stature, that it was almost impossible to be dis­cern'd; The Duke was no sooner re­turn'd into the Hall, but that he cast his Eyes every where to find out his Dear Theresia; and did no sooner ob­serve that the Dutchess was not in the [Page 26] Ball, that he did run with an extream joy towards the False Theresia; and accosting her in a Corner of the Hall, where he could not be heard of any one; How well you requited me, said he, for all the pains and troubles that you have made me suffer this day; you are not only satisfi'd with Writing to me the most unkind Letters in the World; but to add to your unkindness, while I am seeking after you every where, and that you see what trouble I have to rid my self of a Jealous Woman, you not so much as give me the least oppertunity to speak two Words in private to you; on the con­trary, as if you were of Intelligence with the Dutchess, it seemes as if you took de­light in augmenting the troubles which she gives me, and you design not to make one step towards me, to lessen them; But lett's form hence; continued He, for I have many other reproaches to make you, and I fear least this Importunate Woman, should come again to trouble us; get into your Chamber, and I will be with you in an instant. Having said [Page 27]this, he rises from his Seat, and mixes himself with the rest of the Company, to take off all suspicion. The Dutchess, who had a mind to see how far this Comical part would go, went to Theresia's Chamber, where she sate on the Bed; Courage, Monfieur the Duke, said she to her self, I must needs confess that you are a most worthy Husband, and I know very well what you deserv'd, were I not a greater Fool then you; However I am resolv'd to see the end of it; after which I shall endeavour to serve you with the same sawce: your Perfidious dealings do not deserve that you should have so vir­tuous a Wife as I am; and it is but rea­sonable that the Letters of Mart should be granted in Loves Wars, as well as in all others. The Duthess had not time to entertain her self any longer with the like thought, for the Duke comming in, who presently Kneeling on the Ground before her, Which of us two, said he, is the most guilty, and ought to ask the other forgiveness? I, for having performed (not without exceed­ing [Page 28]trouble) that which you had comman­ded, and horribly constraining my self in Feigning Love to another, the better to deceive the Dutchess; or you for re­proaching me on that account, and for imputing to me as a Crime, that I omit nothing, even to the most difficult of things in the World, to endeavour to please you? Answer this, continu'd he, and pluck off your Vizard, I beseech You, that I may see You blush at the very thoughts of the malicious Trick which this day You have put upon me. The pre­tended Theresia did hearken unto all these fine things with that satisfaction as may be imagin'd; But the Duke, who was not pleas'd with her silence, no more then at her continuing mas­ked, did press very hard to say some­thing; or at least, if that she was re­solv'd to be silent, not to deprive him of the only happiness which he could have near her, which was, of behol­ding her Face; saying further, That this good fortune did so rarely happen to him, that she ought not to think [Page 29]much of it at that time. But yet no Answer to all this; the Duke did con­tinue his Discourse to her, and told her a thousand fine things on her si­lence, adding, That there was some cer­tain times in which it was more inconve­nient to remain silent then to speak, and that she should not take it ill, if he did construe it to his advantage: And find­ing that all that would not do, What, continued he, shall I be a whole Eve­ning by You without drawing one Word from Your Mouth! Well, I know a way, added he, to make You speak, at least to call me Names. Being now streng­thened with this Resolution, he ven­tured to lay his Hand on her Bosome, but the Fair One gave him a Repulse, because of some difference that was between her Breasts and the true The­resia; but the Duke was not in the least daunted at it, and threatening to proceed further if she continu'd silent, he began to take greater Liberty then ever; and perceiving that there was but a very slight resistance made, and [Page 30]that both the Mask and the Silence did invite him to proceed; he went on, and was using the extremity of Violence, when the Masqued Fair One, percei­ving it time to act another part, pul­led off her Masque, and shewed the Duke the Face of his own Wife. Never was there such a change put upon a Man so passionate as he was; his surprize was such, as may be imagin'd, but not related. He went out of the Chamber more affrighted then if he had seen all the Spirits of the other World; and as he pass'd by some Lords and Ladies that were in the next Chamber, he enquired of them what was become of the Lady Theresia: The Lady Theresia, replied one of the Ladies, who had seen her go into that Chamber with him, Was she not with You? The Duke made no Answer, but went on, to seek after what he asked for.

The Dutchess having compos'd her self out of those disorders in which her false Husband had left her, she went out of the Chamber, and pass'd [Page 31]by the Company with much haste, that here Gate, which was somewhat dif­ferent from Theresia's, might not disco­ver her. These Lords and Ladies, who did see her come forth, did not know what to think of the Duke's Question; Is not that (said they one to another) the Lady Theresia? What ails the Duke? In fine, they gave an ill construction to the business, and every one thought of it as he pleas'd. But the Dutchess having some Fears that the Duke, who was very passionate, might ill treat those that had detained Theresia in her Chamber, did run presently towards it, to prevent Mischief, where she met him coming forth leading Theresia by the Hand; she had not the Power to look with Patience upon them, and her passion (which had been so lately stirred up with what had passed in Theresia's Chamber,) breaking forth, there was no injurious Words that she did not say, nor no Threatenings which she did not use, against that Lady: But she who did think to have [Page 32]at least as much cause of complaint against her, for the violent detaining of her in the Dutchess's Chamber, not­withstanding all her endeavours to get out, did return the Dutchess as smart Language as she brought. The Duke, who could not remain Newter in a business in which his heart was so much concern'd, was twice or thrice upon the point of putting in for one; but at last, his Prudence carrying it above the Transports of his Heart, it not becoming him to take Theresia's part against his Wife, nor agreeing with that tenderness of his Heart to take his Wives part against his Mi­stress, he intreated the last to pursue her way, and he conducted her into her Chamber. This business having made a great noise at Court, it was variously discours'd off, no Person knowing what had pass'd in Theresia's Chamber.

The Duke himself, did not relate it justly, to his own Mistress, for Fear of drawing her anger upon him, as [Page 33]Doubtless it had done, had she known all. He only told her, that having mistaken the Dutchess for her, and ha­ving Conducted her into her Cham­ber, he had pressed her very much to unmask; but she not answering his desires at first, he had said so many things to her, that at last she had dis­covered herself. Theresia could not forbear smiling at the Cheat, though it was at her Cost; but desirous to have satisfaction at what rate soever, for this late insulting which she had receiv'd without cause; she told the Duke that he was to prepare himself to see her depart the next Morning, and that she could no longer remain with Honour in the Court, after the manner with which the Dutchess did daily Treat her; and that she did very well perceive, that how virtu­ously soever she should behave her self, his Wives Jealousies would be ever finding fault with her, so that it were best for the satisfaction of all parties that she should retire. The [Page 34]Duke, who did harken unto her without the least motion; could you, said he, to her, Abandon me unto all that rage would make a Man do? For there would be no desperate attempt, in which your absence would not lead me; and I do declare to you, that if you have so little consideration for my Life, you may perform what you threaten to do, but you will no sooner be out of the Gates of Naples, but that you will hear of my Death. Alass my Lord, reply'd The­resia, What would you have me do? Shall I be all my Life-time expos'd to be ill Treated in the Eyes of the whole Court? And though you could ingage to the contrary, shall it be said that after that the Dutchess has diverted her self at my cost, shall run down with all the abusive Language imaginable a Person of my Quality in your presence? What have I done to deserve so severe a usage at her hands? Or rather, added she with Tears, What have I done to you, to make you have so little regard for my Reputation, that you will not let me quit [Page 35]this place, that is so fatal to my Life? Oh! Heavens, what did I come here to do? The Duke who was pierced through the very heart, with her Words and Tears, remain'd some time without answering, Sighing, and looking upon her, with Eyes which did sufficiently express how much he was concern'd at all that she had said to him; No, Madam, said he to her at last, It shall not be said, that that Person which I most Honour in the World, and that I may safely say I Love a thousand times more then my Life, does receive any Injury in my Court on my account, and I not resent it; give me, continu'd he, but twenty four hours time, and all Persons shall know what is due unto you, Ah! my Lord, reply'd There­sia, who fear'd some dangerous effects from the Dukes Passion, I do conjure you to make no further noise about it, there has been but two much already, and I shall fear, that at last it will all fall upon me; no Madam, reply'd the Duke, you have been offended, without [Page 36]cause, I will have that satisfaction given that is due to you, and you shall see Per­sons return to you without the least noise. The Duke did continue some time longer in discourse with that Faire one, to conclude the diverting of her from a design to, which, of truth she had no great Inclination; and having left her at last, he return'd not to the Dutchess, who spent the whole night in a fruitless expectation of him, the Disconsolate Lady, did believe, that she had had sufficient cause of Com­plaint, and of afflicting her self, with­out the addition of this last unkind­ness, of not seeing the Duke all that night, she was extreamly concern'd at it; she sent secretly some Person of trust, to learn where he had laine, but none could give her any account of it; at last she was inform'd that he had been ever since five in the Morning, in Castle Novo, which was formerly the habitation of the King of Naples, and that stands at the end of the Palace Garden, belonging to the present Vice-Royes; [Page 37]where he was causing an ap­partment to be Furnished, with all the richest things that were in the Palace; this did perplex the Dutchess more then all the rest; she knew not whether it was for himself, that the Duke caus'd this Appartment to be fitted, in order to be seperated from her, and to live by himself; Or whe­ther it were for her Rival.

Either of them was very cruel to her, but much more if it were for Theresia; Judging well that it would be there, that for the future the Court would be kept; and that she should be no longer Confined, but as a useless Person.

Amongst those cruel vexations which those sorrowful thoughts did give her; she had not the patience to let her self be Dressed, but just as she was in her Night Attire; She goes into her Chair, and is Carried to Castle Novo, where she really found the Duke, who was very busy to get it Adorn'd according to his fancy; [Page 38]and who did not give her, as it may easily be imagined, an over-kind re­ception.

The poor Dutchess was so troubled, that besides the disorder that she was in, with having passed the whole Night without Sleep; so many vexa­tions which gnaw'd her, did render her so unlike her self, that she would have moved compassion in any one but her Husband; who did not daign so much as once to look upon her; May a Person ask you, My Lord said she, with an Humble and Languishing voice, for whom is all this? You shall see it, Madam, he answered coldly, when it is ready; But however, reply'd the Dutchess, since that I am to see it, give me the satisfaction as to let me know it before hand, for I must confess to you, that it is a great trouble to me, and that I am come hither on purpose to ask it of you.

Well, Madam, reply'd the Duke, with some haste, since that you so much desire to know it, it is for the Lady [Page 39]Theresia; For the Lady Theresia, re­plyed the Dutchess with a trembling voice, which failing her, she Fainted away, falling in a swoun, into the Arms of one of the Dukes Gentlemen, who was luckily there to support her; The Duke who was not so hard hearted as to look upon her in that condition, Withdrew himself; and the Dutchess in a little time after com­ing to her self, inquired where he was? and learning that he was Walking a­lone in the Garden, she went thither, and threw her self at his Feet; she in­treated him to do what he pleas'd with her, but that he should not give that appartment to the Lady Theresia, but that she should remain with her, where he should see her if he pleas'd from Morning till Night.

The Duke raising her up with some Signs, that he was mollified with her submission, did tell her that he had given his word to his Kinswoman, that he could not fall from it, and that the thing was to be mention'd to her [Page 40]self; and endeavours made to bring her to live with her again.

The Dutchess did perceive to what all that tended, and to what cruelty she was exposed thus to be obliged to submit to a Rival; But there was nothing that she would not have done to prevent her being lodg'd in that re­tired place, which she looked upon as on the greatest and last of all her trou­bles; So that having left the Duke, she Retired to her own Appartment; whence she sent one of her Gentle­men to Theresia, intreating her to be willing to live with her again, as she had formerly done, and to forget all that was pass'd.

Theresia, received this Embacy with a great Coldness, and made an­swer unto the Dutchess's Compliment, That she thank'd her for the Honour that she did her; but that having Resolv'd to withdraw her self from the Court, that she might not give her any further occa­sion of disquiet, she did intreat her to dispense with her from it.

The Dutchess did well perceive that she must resolve her self, to make all the advances; and that nothing would be done, except she went her self in Person, to intreat her to it; These are strange kind of Submissions, and that cost very dear, on such occasions, to a Woman of that Quality, Young, and Beuteous as she was, in respect of a Rival, who was her Kinswoman, and who she had her self invited to Court, to be as it appear'd, her Sorrow and Ruine.

Nothing more severe in this Life, yet there was no way to avoid it, if she would prevent the design of Castle Novo, which would cause her a thou­sand times more troubles then that; therefore she went thither, and it is certain, that this Interview, was one of the rarest Scenes, as ever was Acted; Theresia, although her heart was yet griev'd at the injury which she receiv'd the Night before, Could not deny a Reconciliation with the Dutchess; after so many Civilities it was, who [Page 42]should outdoe one another in Cour­tisies, and one would have Sworn that they had both forgot their rancour, and all the reason which they both had, not to forget one another, so much power has certain Conjunctures of time on the minds of Women; in whom it is said, that Passions are very Powerful.

There was then made a kind of Reconciliation, at least in appearance, for as to the Inward, there was pre­paring a greater War than ever; The Duke was the Person that was the most pleas'd at it, who over-joy'd for having compas'd his ends, was desi­rous to Publish the share that he took in this new Friendship, by living in so good an Intelligence with the Dut­chess, that there was no care or regard that he had not for her, as if he ne­ver had any other desire in his mind then to please her.

Things were much at this rate, when I came to this Court; Whenever I look'd on Theresia, so Beauteous and [Page 43]Charming as she was, I did in some measure excuse the Duke for being taken with her; for of truth, there was nothing more Amiable; But when I did turn my Eyes upon the Dutchess, who was also a Beautiful young Lady, that had no other fault in her, (as to the Duke,) but that of being his Wife; I had a great com­passion for her; and it wanted but lit­tle, that I did not offer my self to repair that defect; and as if it was my fault, to be concern'd in all the Dukes Amours, whom I was oblig'd to respect for a Thousand reasons; it daily fell to my lot to entertain her; of which Imploy I did acquit my self with so much complisance, that it might easily be perceived it was not very troublesom to me, and of truth, as the Dutchess had a world of Wit, and that I had no particular de­signs on any Person except Theresia; I would have always preferred her to all others, if it had been in my own choice, but as I was not to pretend [Page 44]any thing on that side, no more then on the other, and that I was seeking after some subject that might give me some occasions of expences, and of appearing rather then to be tyed unto, by any other inclination; I was oblig'd to turn my Eyes another way, to find out one that might be worth my Labour.

The day of the Dukes Festival was growing near; and as on that day the Court was to be more Gallant then e­ver, and the Ladies better Adorned then all the rest of the year, I did resolve to stay until that day; and in the mean time to continue my usual Devoirs towards the Dutchess, who did give me sufficiently to understand, that she was well pleas'd with it, ha­ving told me more then once, that I was not altogether useless in assisting her, to support the Domestick vexa­tions which she was to suffer.

At last, that day came in which I did design to be in Love, or at least, in which I was to find out a Mistris to [Page 45]make me so. There were but few Lords at Court that had such Curious and Rich Apparel as I had; and I did that day put one on, which had not yet been seen, and which was as fit to make my self be belov'd, (as some times some have been by that means,) as any that ever was invented; I was very much look'd upon, and not to ex­tend my self on the particulars of the Regalio, which the Duke gave, which was one of the most magnificent, that ever had been made; I shall only say as to what concerns my self, that be it, the inclinations which I had already for Theresia, or the tender compassions that I did feel from the Dutchess, who certainly were the two Persons of the Court, most deserving to be consider'd; I could not see any thing amongst all the rest, that was of Power to draw so much as one single Sigh from me; so tha [...] I was in great danger to return home, as indifferent as I was to come forth: when that towards the latter part of the Banquet, where every one [Page 46]did set a value upon his Inclinations in Drinking of Healths: all the whole Railery being fallen upon me, for Drinking none but such as were serious.

The Duke who was the Man in the World, that had most Wit, and who did not let slip the least occasion in which he might oblige me, did speak of my indifferency unto the Ladies; saying, that it was a great scandal to their Beautyes, that I had been so long at the Court of Naples, as cold and in­sensible as the first day of my Arrival.

I do Swear, by the God of Love, con­tinu'd he, That this the day of my Fe­stival shall not conclude before I see an end to this indifferency. Upon this pulling from off his Finger, a very fair Diamond; Here my Lord, said he, Here is a Ring that I present you with, and which I do intreat you to be­stow without any distinction of Persons, on that Lady of the Company which you Judge to be the most Beautiful.

The sport was pleasant, but I did find some considerable danger in it; there being no question to be made, but that my preferring of any one be­fore the rest, would offend the major part; For Women are never in the humour of yielding any advantages to one another, especially in matters of Beauty: Therefore I did intreat the Duke to dispence me for it; but besides, I did use much stronger mo­tives which I was unwilling to declare.

However I was condemn'd to it, by the loud clamour of the whole Com­pany, who were desirous to see on which side my heart would incline.

This did oblige me to rise, and to present the Ring unto the Dutchess. This was presently look'd upon, ra­ther as an act of prudence, then an effect of my inclination. For though the Dutchess was in the Eyes of all the World a most Beautiful Woman, it was reasonably thought, that I would not address my self there, or at least declare my self so openly be­fore [Page 48]the Duke in case that my incli­nations should lead me that way; but it was concluded, that I had thought fit to present to the Wife that Ring with which the Husband had honour­ed me.

If there was any one, to whom what I had done was displeasing, it was Theresia, who did highly pretend to that advantage.

As to the Dutchess, I did render her such a signal and sensible piece of service, in giving her that Tryum­phant advantage over her Rival before the Duke, that she had not thought to express too large an acknowledg­ment of it, though at that very mo­ment, she had given me her whole heart, in exchange of that Diamond.

Peradventure, that had I followed my Inclinations, Theresia had had a greater share in them, then the Dut­chess; but I was not so bad a Politi­tian, and I foreseeing the Advanta­geous Judgments that would be given me on that account; and that besides [Page 49]it was the best way to please all in this Addressing my self to the Dut­chess; I did not defer one moment from making her that present, of which I had some confidence, that she would keep a good account: Howe­ver the Duke was pleas'd to have this my choice, to pass for an exact decla­ration of Love in all its forms; Upon which the Dutchess was presently sa­luted as my Mistris.

I did Drink her health, as being her Gallant, and all the rest of the Night that this Feasting lasted, was spent in Gallant Ceremonies, upon the conquest of my indifferency, to the Honour of the Dutchess's Beauty, that had over­come the Insensibility of my Heart, and who did appear that night of better humour then she had ever been seen before.

As for Theresia, from that day, she declar'd open Wars against me; not that I had any great access or Famili­arity with her before, I had scarce Spoken three times to her, and that too, [Page 50]by accident and very succinctly, but I had always found her very complai­sant with me, either in the general conversations, or in other occasions, when she did always delight to praise me, and to approve of all that I did; but after the business of the Diamond, she was in perpetual debates with me on all accounts, expressing many sighs, with a thousand other Aversions and Antipathies against me, from which I did not draw worse consequence, then from all the Complaisance that she had formerly had for me.

In a word, we did live like real ene­mies, though in the bottom there was nothing which was less in our hearts then hatred. Mean time, all those seeming contrarieties of humours, be­tween Theresia and my self, did not a little contribute to Augment certain motions, which the Dutchess did feel of not hating me.

She was Born with great inclinati­ons to virtue; but at last the Love which she had for the Duke decrea­sing, [Page 51] as fast as he did render himself unworthy of it. It did leave an empty place in her Heart, which she had a de­sire to fill up with some Idea, that might pleasingly Revenge her, of that wrong which was offer'd to her Beauty.

And I believe, that she already did look upon me as a Person that would be very fit for that purpose; but were it, that I did put forward sufficiently, or that the Dutchess, in which Hon­our still held a combate Maugré, the reasons which she gave herself of not following its Dictates on her Husbands account, did not give me a sufficient overturn to make her an open Decla­ration; Our Affairs did rest for some time at a stand, in which Love can scarce be reckon'd any thing, though it had a being, till that one day that I went to give the Dutchess a visit, one of her Gentlewomen in whom she most confided, having told me, that she was walking upon the Tarrass, and that I was come the most luckily in the World to comfort her, in a relation which she [Page 52]had newly received; I presently went to her, and having found her with Eyes full of Tears, holding a Paper in her Hand, I inquired of her, with a passionate Air, what cause she had to afflict her self so severely? Here, reply'd she, giving me the Paper to Read, which was a Note that the Duke had lately Writ to Theresia, this Note will sufficiently inform you of it. I took it from her, and in it Read as follows.

I ended the Reading of that Note, which I could not return to her, without Smiling; at which she said, You take but very little share in Peoples afflictions, since that you can laugh at him.

Heaven is my Witness, Madam, said I to her with a serious look, that no other Person can be so much concern'd as I am at yours, and that if my Bloud could repair it, I would offer it to you all to the last drop, but—But, there is no occasion here for Bloud, Interrupted the Dutchess, only tell me what you think of the Dukes carriage? You too well know, Madam, I answered, what I am to think of it, without obliging me to explicate my self on so nice a point.

No, reply'd she, I will have you to immediately tell me, what your thoughts are on this Subject?

I obey, Madam, said I, Since you compel me to it; but if I fail in my respects to your concerns, blame none but your self for it.

I value it not, reply'd she, Speak, I will have it so; Tell me what one may Judge of such Proceedings as are the Dukes.

What strange fancys is there in the World, said I; for there is no Person that does pretend to the least knowledge in Beauty, Wit, and all other things, that men of Judgment are taken with, that would not prefer you to all that is seen of most Charming at Court.

Are you well pleased, said she, with a little Redness, that came over her Face, of what you say? And may I flatter my self that you Speak sincerely?

I should say a thousand times more if I durst, I reply'd, with some Emotion of Spirit; Dare it, then, answered she, And say all that you think in my con­cerns, I do conjure you to it.

This was giving me sufficient liber­ty, yet I did stagger for some time, but at last finding my self too far gone to retire, and observing that the Dutchess Eyes, as well as Words did expect a further Explanation.

Well, Madam, said I, since that you command me to Speak, I will tell you, that for my part, I am so concern'd at the Dukes unjustice, that if you had judg'd me worthy to fill up his place, I had long since offered my self to repair those wrongs that he does you: for in a word there is nothing more deserving then you are. And finding that she remai­ned silent.

Yes, Madam, continu'd I, If that the vows of a Heart that never yet Lov'd any thing else, and that cannot Love any thing but you, does not appear unto you wholly unworthy of that Choice, per­mit me to Consecrate them to you this very moment; The Duke is of the Hu­mour of those, that are never well pleas'd with their own Fortune, be it never so good; Another would make better use of it; And the least of those Favours which he Condemns, is able to render a Person most happy.

A Person Madam, continu'd I, Born with those Excellent Qualities that you possess, such as are of Power to Create [Page 56]Love in the most insensible Persons, ought not to suffer those kind of Scorns; I do forget my duty, Madam, added I, but your Interest is Dearer to me then my Life, and I having at first taken your Interest by reason meerly; Love now has so firmly united me unto it, that I suffer the same pains you endure; others in your Place, has already taken some Resolution to force People to Reason, but those are extremities, which makes too much noise, and that are ever avoi­ded by Rational Persons.

There are milder ways to Reduce a Man to his Duty; after which if he re­mains Obstinate, the only way is to re­turn Scorn for Contempt.

There being nothing in all that I had said to the Dutchess, in which I was not highly concern'd; I therefore did not omit saying any thing which I thought would invite her to believe me.

I must confess that then there was yet more of Vanity then of Love in my Design; And that seeing I could [Page 57]not be the Dukes Rivall to his Mistris, a thousand Reasons of Youth did in­gage me not to loose the fair oppor­tunity of becomming the Dutchesses Gallant.

She was, or at least did appear to me to be concern'd at what I had said, and with Sighs which were mixed with Anger against her perfidious Hus­band, and that had some mixture of Gratitude towards me; She let me know, that it was not from that day, that she had taken notice of my being concern'd at her Misfortunes, and that the trust that she had always repos'd on me in all her Afflictions, might have sufficiently inform'd me, of the esteem which she had for me, and of the disposition which was in to make use of my Councils; Further confes­sing, that nothing had ever pleas'd her so much, as the present which I had made her of the King, which daily did come into her mind with delight, and that of truth she might one day shew me how sensible she was of it, if the [Page 58] Duke should drive her to it. I did in­deavour to Animate her the more, and at last before we parted, to shew me that her indignation was not far from breaking forth; she gave me her hand to Kiss, and let me on the Terras, saying, Prepare your self to Morrow, to see great things come about.

I did return very well satisfied to see my Affairs advanced so far on that side, and the next Night after this conversation, I pass'd with most pleasing fancies.

Poggio Reale, is a place of pleasure, some three Miles distant from the City, where the Duke did frequently divert himself.

The Company were very numerous and Gallant there that day, and the Supper most Magnificent; but that which was most pleasant to behold, and made, on design to amuse the People, were a great number of Fire Works, which lasted above an hour. They had scarce been Lighted, that every one running to see that pleasant [Page 59]spectacle; the Duke and Theresia un­der pretence of the same curiosity, disapear'd from the Eyes of the Dut­chess, who had diligently observ'd them, till then that she lost the sight of them in the Confusion.

She was immediatly disturb'd at it, and sought after them, and meeting me by accident, Do you not know said she, quite out of Breath, What is be­come of the Duke and Theresia? No, Madam, I reply'd smiling at the trou­ble she was in, And if you would be­lieve me, you would not seek any fur­ther after them; You will but put by an adventure, which if not atchieved to day, will be so to Mo [...]row.

It is no matter, reply'd she, Blush­ing, I will go see if they are not in one of the Arbours of the Labyrinth, you will do well to repair there, where, if I find them not, and meet with you, it is likely that I shall seek them no further; I promis'd her to go there, and did follow her presently after.

This Labyrinth, is very large, and the Alleys of it so close cover'd, that at mid-day there appear'd but a dull Light in them; so that I, who did not well know the windings of it, and that fear'd to ingage my self in that obscurity, so far, as not so easily to get out again; I went a slow pace on, till at last I did think that I heard a voice; I went forward without any noise, to endeavour to understand what was said, and at last I under­stood that it was the Dutchess, Well, My Lord, was she saying, Will you this Night Revenge me of all the Dukes Injuries? He is false, and does not de­serve the pains that I take after him, I know it, and since that he is the only cause that I have met with you here a­lone, it will be your own fault if I return not well satisfi'd, for my fruitless search after him so far without success.

This Discourse did the more surprise me, by reason that I knew it to be intended to me, that the Dutchess did mistake her self, and that to both our [Page 61]Sorrows, it was peradventure the Duke that was with her; upon this I did harken more attentively then be­fore, to hear what he would answer; But presently after I heard the Dutchess proceed in this manner.

Why are you so silent? And what is become of that sensibility which you have shewn till now for all my Troubles? And that has made you share in all my sorrows and afflictions, as well as in the aver­sion which I have against a Perfidious Husband? Will you become insensible when it is no longer time to be so? This Discourse did make me mad, not so much because that I could not answer her expectations, as I would have done, if I had been in that place that the Dutchess did think me to be, as for the evil consequences that would follow, both as to her, as well as to my self, especially if it was the Duke that she spoke too, as I had little rea­son to doubt it. There being none but he that could keep thus the Lady so long in her Ignorance.

He had that day on a Justecoes im­broider'd as I had, and I did guess, that that might be the very occasion of the mistake.

During these Transactions, I got so near the place they were in, that there was only the Hedge between them and us, and I could hear all, even to the Dutchesses Sighs, who judging ill things from this silence, and the indifferency which she found in the Person which she took from me, She began to ex­amine him more nearly; there was a great silence, and I fearing to make some noise, did seat my self on the Ground, to see the effects of so sad an accident; when I heard some body move behind me, who pulling me by the Coat, and casting his Arms about my Neck, did bring his Mouth close to my Ears, Is it you My Lord, said he, as low as he could? I was affraid that you had met with the Dutchess, but I believe that it is the Lord N. that is with her, (continu'd he,) naming me:

The surprisal that I was in, joyn'd to the pre-ocupation that I had of what was passing with the Dutchess, had so strangely disturbed my mind, that I did scarce know the Persons voice, but that the conjuncture of the place, the Cloaths that I felt, and what had been said to me, did perswade me that it was Theresia, who doubtless had taken me for the Duke, while the Dutchess did mistake the Duke for me.

At last, the Dutchess finding the mi­stake at the touch of her Husbands Cloaths, she had occasion to make use of all the quickness of her Wit, to get off of so bad a business. Therefore in an instant recalling into her mind all the causes of Anger that she had, to animate her self the more against her Husband; Go, thou Traitor, said she to him, go seek thy Theresia; for I am too virtuous to carry on this disguise any further, thou well deservest that I should make thee feel all those anguishes which my fidelity keeps from thee, but if thou dost persist in thus making me grow despe­rate, [Page 64]I will not warrant thee but that I may perform in earnest that Personage, which I but now acted.

This suddain charge did smell too much of Art, not to be perceiv'd by so skilful a man as the Duke, who re­flecting upon every little circumstance of this adventure, did amongst the rest, find that the embraces with which the Dutchess had accosted him at first, were too full of heat, and ac­companied with too many Ardent Sighs, to proceed from a Woman, who had a heart fill'd with Jealousies only, and that had no other design then to feign; he was not Ignorant of the Affairs of the World, and his own experience had made him too capeable, to be subject to make so gross a mistake, so that speaking with the voice of a Person that had no mind to be cousen'd by a Womans Subtilty.

If I mistake not, said he, Madam, there is much more of mistake then of feigning in this business.

Confess the truth, and that you did not expect me here, that you intended that Honour to some other, and that I own to my silence, and to my Cloaths per­haps, the saving of the Shameful Conclu­sion of this adventure.

Who could have seen the Dutchess's Face, might easily have guest at the transactions within her brest; she was at first something daunted at the Dukes Words, but at last taking Courage, by the advantage of the obscurity of the place; Well, (reply'd she,) Were it true as you say, that this was an appoint­ment, and that I had taken you for an other; For whom have you taken me, and what came you to do here? At this kind of confession, the Duke passing from doubts to a certainty of the Dut­chess's mistake; He did take it very ill, that she made no difference be­tween a Wives Treachery, and that of an Husbands, going about to prove to her by good and sufficient Argu­ments, that the first did thereby dis­honour a whole Family, and that the [Page 66]other was meer Gallantry; But the Dutchess, maintaining her Right, would make him see that the obligation be­ing equal, so was the injury also; and that if the use of False-hood was estee­med more pardonable in Men then in Women on that account, it was only because that they as more Impudent, had made it more frequent amongst them, then it was amongst Women; But that she thank'd Heaven for't, Women had began so to order those Affairs, as to render them equal on both sides; That she had already tor­mented her self sufficiently on that ac­count, but that she would no longer be a Fool, and that she should soon find out some body, that would com­fort her for all his Baseness.

Could we not know, said the Duke, who was not pleas'd with all those rea­sonings, as may well be imagin'd, whom you have made choice of, to render you that single piece of sense? You need not trouble your self about it, answer'd she, Go find out Theresia, who doubtless [Page 67]will be tryed in waiting for you, and leave me here, for I am weary of you.

Nay, this is driving too far, said the Duke, It suffises that you have shewed me what you are willing to do, without requiring of me such a Complaisance, as is not usually desired from an Hus­band.

The whole Complaisance is for your self, reply'd the Dutchess, you are expected, and I consent that you should go, what would you have more; I will reply'd the Duke, that whosoever stays should stay on still, and I will remain by you; If you have so much goodness left as to per­mit; I think it a very humble request, added he, and that an Husband like me, is well worth a Gallant.

I shall tell you that, reply'd the Dut­chess, when you will shew me that I am well worth a Mistress.

After these Words there was a Ge­neral silence reign'd, whence it might easily be conjectured, some conjugal reconciliation to proceed.

Theresia, who had no sooner heard the Dukes voice, but that she did en­deavour to be gone from me, had I not held her by the Coats, did strive more then ever to get out of my hand, when she perceiv'd to what a conclu­sion the Dialogue was come, which she understood as well as I did.

But there was no intreating of her, she was seated on the Grass as I was, I lay at her Feet, giving her to under­stand as well as I could, that we two were the happiest couple of the ad­venture; There is no question that how hard soever it be, for any one to see that which they love in the posses­sion of another, nothing inspires so much Indignation, as when it is in the Husbands.

Of all Rivals, they are the most in­sufferable, and the contempt that is had for them; does frequently out­pass the hatred that one would have against others.

For my part, if any thing was cape­able of Diverting me, during the vex­ation [Page 69]that I was in, because another held my place; It was the satisfaction which I had to imagine that Theresia had as great a share in it as I had; for those kind of things have a far grea­ter effect upon Womens minds, then Mens.

Mean time, as in all such Fair op­portunities there is some putting for­wards, I did then endeavour, (not­withstanding the Hatered that there was between that fair one and me;) to make use of this conjuncture in taking some small liberty.

The Darkness of the place, its Si­tuation, the example of others, all did seem to dispence at such a time, a Man for all manner of Discretion, and it had ill becom'd me to have pre­serv'd so much near so Beautiful a Person. Yet I did not drive my rude­ness too far neither, and Theresia, (who had more of fear then I had of hold­ness,) was quit of it, for some small Stealths, which she Revenged with Scratches.

The Duke and the Dutchess, having chang'd their Entertainements, they likewise alter'd their Discourse; the Duke did presently ask his Wife if she was well pleas'd with her Mistake.

It will be your fault only if I am not, reply'd the Dutchess; but it is certain, that if you continue in your slights to­wards me, another shall gain by it.

That others (with whom you do so whreaten me,) can be no other then the Lord N. reply'd the Duke; If it were not He reply'd the Dutchess, (rising to be gone,) It should be another; But I will confess to you, (added she, moving forwards,) that he shall always be prefer'd to any other when ever you give me an occasion for it.

They being then got at a further distance, we heard not any thing fur­ther of their discourse; So when The­resia, who fear'd remaining alone with me, after what I had already done, rising also, Are you not said she, the most rude of all Men, thus to prevail up­on my goodness, and to have so little of [Page 71]respect for me, who you see could not find in my heart to mind you?

Rather say, Madam, I answered, that I am oblig'd unto that danger which was equal to us both; And what danger reply'd she? I neither fear the Duke, nor the Dutchess.

I fear them as little as you do, I re­ply'd, but it is probable that you would not have had the Dutchess to know, that you were so near her Husband, nor that the Duke should think me so near his Mistress.

Theresia having Highly defended her self on that point, and making use of the same Reasons against me; there happened a pleasant dispute betwixt us, which at last did terminate in rail­lery on all that had happened to us both that Night, without any further explication on either side.

In this manner we rejoined the company, where we found the Duke and the Dutchess, who doubtless be­ing concern'd after us, were not a lit­tle surpris'd to see us come in together, [Page 72]not knowing whether we had not had the same fortune, that they had met with.

All the rest of that Evening, the Duke did appear very Discontented, and the Dutchess had her Eyes inces­santly upon us; while, as if we had been agreed to make them both very uneasy; Theresia and I, affect to be of great Intelligence together, and we did continually Whisper in one ano­thers Ears, Laughing at their Cost. So that the whole Court, that had al­ways seen us of very contrary Hu­mours, were much surpris'd to see us on the suddain so well agreed, and en­tertaining one another with so much familiarity before the Duke. The Feast, which was then all ours, lasted not much longer; The Master of it having great reason to conclude it be­fore the time, which he had designed it should.

After which every one having taken the way to the City, I took leave of Theresia, who put her in the Dutchess's [Page 73]Coach with whom she had come thi­ther; and the Duke who was to ac­company them, did not, but came to ask me room in mine.

I did receive that Honour as I ought, but I did soon perceive to what it tended; and after we had been some time without speaking.

I must needs confess, My Lord, said he, in a slighting manner, whi [...]h did sufficiently express, with what a Passion his mind was posses'd, that for a young Man, you are very knowing, and that your love of indifferency has had no bad success. There are none but for you now at Court, and your vanity extends so far, as to carry your designs on Persons to­wards whom you ought not so much as to lift up your Eyes.

I know not, my Lord, I reply'd, in what it has ever appeard, that I have lost that respect which I owe you.

That business answer'd he, has not need of any further clearing; what I tell you is sufficient to put you in mind of your duty, it is time for you to re-enter into [Page 74]it; you are Young, I have some conside­rations for the Family whence you came, without that it is like, that I had not acted with all the moderation that I do at present; But abuse not any of it, and make good use of this advice that I give you.

I am very unhappy, My Lord, I re­ply'd, thus to incur your displeasure; but more that I know not by what means I am fallen into that misfortune; all that I can do, is to depart the Court; and if you desire it, I will quit the Kingdom al­so, rather then give you the least dis­quiet.

Those ways that make such noise, are not convenient, (answer'd he,) when you know what it is that I desire of you, do it, and then, when you think good to be gone, you may, without giving any intimation of the cause thereof.

The Conversation went no further, we remained all the rest of the time in silence, until we came to the Palace, where he told me again, that I should think on the advice which he had given [Page 75]me. But I had no sooner quitted him, that seeing him take the way to the Dutchess's Appartment, whence I did not think that he would come forth again that night, that I went to The­resias Lodgings, being impatient to learn what Entertainment she had had with the Duke.

I found her undressing, and she no sooner did see me, but that she told me in a Languishing strain, that the Dutchess had given her an Intire Di­vertisement, and that now she did be­lieve her more Jealous of me then of the Duke; all her business having been to learn where we two had met so as to return together; I also re­lated to her, all that had pass'd in my Coach with the Duke; So that we were both Laughing heartily at it, when the Duke came into the Cham­ber, which did very much surprise me.

But Theresia Laugh'd more lowd then before at it, which put him as much out of countenance, as I had [Page 76]been, who had no other thoughts but of retiring as I did personally.

I did well imagine that this last sur­prise, would make an end of placing me ill in the Dukes opinion.

Therefore I did design not to ap­pear at Court all the next day, fear­ing, as he was very hastey, that in some suddain action he should express his resentments against me.

But I was scarce out of my Bed the next Morning, that one of his Gentlemen came to call me, as from him.

I went into a Gallery where he staid for me, and after he had receiv'd me with such a cold Air, as did suffici­ently shew how he forc'd himself; I did believe Lord N. said he, that I had sufficiently given you to understand how far my nicety extended in respect of some Persons, and I know not if it is that you would have me to express my self in that manner, that such a contempt as you make of what I say to you, does de­serve.

You did only mention to me, my Lord, said I, such Persons towards whom I ought not to lift up my Eyes, and I did not believe that that command did ex­tend so far, as on all kind of Persons, and that I ought not to look on any body; especially when you could not imagin that I should have any design in it.

Whether I have spoken to you of it or not, (reply'd he, in a lowder voice) you know sufficiently those Persons, in which I pretended to have some Interest, and if I find you there again; I would not advise you to carry it off without Laughing; for it would be Dangerous for any Person whatsoever to Laugh in the Court at my Cost.

You being not in the Chamber, My Lord, I answered him mildly, when we began to Laugh—No no, interrup­ted he, what I say is sufficient, it is not good to play the Jester with me here; You forget your self; see where you are, and you will know what you owe me.

Upon this he left me hastily, not hearkning any longer to what I said.

This Treatment did seem something harsh, though I had deserv'd part of it, and I judging that I should not pass my time very well in that Court, being thus out with the Duke, who would certainly have my steps ob­serv'd, I took the resolution to be gone.

But in the condition that I found my heart at that time, it was almost impossible to get his consent to leave so soon that Country; it was not now the Dutchess that did detain it only, It was Theresia also, for whom I had always had a greater inclination; who notwithstanding the cause that I had given her that Night of Anger against me, had not treated me with all the rigour that I might have expected from her. And even the manner af­ter which she had return'd with me to the Company; and that we had af­ter that discours'd together, had not any thing in it, which gave me not hopes that she had no mind to hate me long.

Finally, so many other things which came into my mind, and so many Amorous Ideas which I had upon all those liberties which I had taken with her, having render'd me more passio­nate then ever.

I chang'd the resolution which I had taken of absolutely quitting that King­dom, to an eight days absence from Court, to give way to the Dukes Anger, and to learn in what dispositi­on of heart my two Ladies were, and how they would take my absence; I did think my self oblig'd to give them notice of my departure, and this is the Note which I Writ to the Dutchess.

These two Notes being Writ and sent, I got on Horse back, and I reti­red my self with a Lord that was a Friend of mine, some ten Viles from the City. Where the next day, I re­ceiv'd answer to both my Letters, and this is that of the Dutchess's.

This commerce having lasted seven or eight days, during which the ten­der confidence that was between The­resia and I, did daily increase my af­fections, and the Hearts correspon­dency which I had with the Dutchess, did very much decay; of two Letters that she did Write to me, I made but one answer; whereas Theresia, had al­ways two Letters from me, for one of hers; and I did so imploy my self of tenderness, with this, that I had scarce any thing left for the other, the which she was not long without perceiving, and attributing to absence that which was the meer eflect of an incon­stancy. At last she Writ to me this Note.

The Passion which I had had for the Dutchess, did awaken again at the lecture of this Letter; and notwithstan­ding all the love that I had for There­sia, I could not refuse such a rendez­vous as that.

I was so in Love with those kind of adventurs, that I would have quit­ted all to have such an Entertainment for a Lady.

I therefore prepar'd my self for that, and parted from that place where I was, at a convenient hour to get to the Garden at the appointed time; but I made such haste in the Impatiency I was, that it was but Eleven of the Clock when I found my self at the Gate; I had but one Man with me, whom I caus'd to wait with my Horse at some distance from thence, in a very private place. I did open the Gate, and I gently advanc'd from one Alley into another, it being early enough yet to meet with People there; as I did hear some walking, I hid my self between two Hedges, to see who it was, for it seem'd to me as if they were comming my way; At last I heard a voice that spoke very low, but as they still did draw nearer me, to rest themselves on some Seats that were not far from me; I was near enough to discern that it was the Dukes voice. I did not doubt but that he was discoursing with The­resia; and Jealousie, as well as some curiosity, insenssibly ingaging me to [Page 86]draw nearer still; I at last creept so close to them as to understand what they said; But what is then the Cause, (said Theresia,) of his absence from Court? You know it, Madam, reply'd the Duke, but to free you from the trouble of asking it me again; I will tell you that he has trespass'd a little too much upon my houn­ty; I Love you, Madam, continu'd he. My Lord, (reply'd Theresia, Interrup­ting him,) and is that the cause of his disgrace? And have you any cause on that account to complain of either of us? But too much, reply'd the Duke, You strangely surprize me, answer'd Theresia, and you will much oblige me, to let me know, in what it has appear'd that the Lord N. has ever made one step only in favour of me.

I am but too well experimented in those things, (reply'd the Duke) to be­come the Interpreter of his actions, and grant that I had deceiv'd my self, you take too much his Interests, to prove that, he is wholly innocent.

This conversation which had some­thing in it very pleasing to me, was growing to go warm in good earnest; when that the ruffling of some Petti­coats, which were heard at the end of the Alley, made the Duke to listen that way; and fearing least it should be the Dutchess, that came to espy him, he intreated Theresia to hide her self in the Hedge, and stay'd till his Wife came up to speak to her.

By good fortune, the Dutchess had taken along with her a Woman, in whom she did conside, having not Courage enough to venture singly in the Garden at that time of the Night, and perceiving the Duke, she did at first take him for me, which might have spoyl'd all, had not his Impatiency so transported him, that he arose and go­ing towards her [...] What! Madam, (said he,) will you never give me any rest? What is it you desire? What come you here for? Is it nor Bed time with you yet? The Dutchess was so surpris'd and confounded at the Dukes voice, [Page 88]that she knew not at first what to an­swer; But fearing least her silence should betray her, or that at least it would make him to distrust somewhat of the truth, she told him with a trem­bling voice, That she was come with no other design, than to walk; which if it troubled him, she would retire into her Chamber.

Yes, Madam, reply'd he, (giving her his hand,) and you will much ob­lige me not to stir from thence at such hours as these; and upon that, he led her back himself to be the more se­cure.

Mean time I was very loath to lose so fair an opportunity, and being not very far from Theresia, I did rise to come to her, but she no sooner heard the noise which I made, that she got out of the Hedge, and began to run away, I follow'd calling softly to her, for fear of being heard by the Duke, who could not yet be very far, but she still did run on, till I did overtake her, and let her know who I was; Oh! [Page 89] my Lord, (said she, quite out of Breath) in what a Fright have you put me? I am half dead with it; after which, she sate her self on the Grass, to compose her a little.

While I was Kneeling before her, I did ask Pardon for the trouble that I had given her, for which I was so sor­ry that I would have repair'd it with my Life.

I will forgive you, (said she,) if you will tell me what you were come here to do? It was my happy fate, Madam, (I reply'd,) that did conduct me here, to be Charm'd with the Honour that you do me, in concerning your self so much for me. You have then heard the discourses which I have had with the Duke, (an­swer'd she,) I have not told him (she continu'd,) half that I had to say to him on that account; But that is not the business now in hand; I only ask you what was your design? And if it is not for Love of the Dutchess that you have left your solitude; for in all probab­lity she came to seek you, and this was [Page 90]an assignation which she had given you, or I am much mistaken.

I Love Theresia too well, to conceal the truth from her, and thought this was no better, then sacrificing of the Dut­chess to her; I rather chose that the one should reproach me a little with Treachery, than the other that I had not been sincere to her in an occasion of this nature; I therefore told her the truth, (adding,) that the success had been more favourable to me than I durst have expected, since that I had been so happy as to meet with her; You had been much more happy, (answer'd he,) if you had met with the Dutchess; It was in my power to do it, (I answer'd,) and I could have prevented her comming up, in running to meet her, so as that she had not come so near you, as to be known. But how can it be, re­ply'd Theresia, that you being Charm'd with the Beauty of a Lady, for whose Love you thus expose your Life, that you should neglect her so much when you are so near? If you had not been here, I re­ply'd, she had not been so neglected, but [Page 91]where e're you are, I cannot think of any other Person; (What you tell me now re­ply'd she,) is something difficult to be be­liev'd; and should I require from you some Assurances of it, I think that I should puzle you.

I am ready, Madam, (answer'd I,) to give it you; And my Heart, who did Sigh for you, from the very moment that I did see you first, and that has never ceas'd doing so, wheresoever otherwise I my cares and steps have been imploy'd, shall give you such proofs thereof, that you shall have no longer cause to doubt it.

I am very sensible, my Lord, (said she, after a little pause,) that I am weak enough to be perswaded into that belief, had I not before my Eyes an example which ought to make me mistrust you.

You would be too unjust, (I answered,) should you condemn me on those appear­ances. No, I shall not condemn you, (an­swer'd she,) but I will examine your Heart a little better yet, there's enough for this time; For in the fears that I [Page 92]am in of the Duke, I cannot tell you half the things which I have to say to you.

I did endeavour to obey her, but in that impatiency that I was to con­clude this conversation, having ask'd of her If that could not see her in pri­vate; she told me, That it would be very difficult, by reason that the Duke did observe her continually after such a man­ner, that she liv'd like a Slave.

I Sighed upon this, and told her, That if she pleas'd, I would meet her the next day in the same place; but she an­swer'd, That there was too much of dan­ger in it for me; And that she should fear on her part both the Duke and the Dutchess.

Finally, after I had intreated her to tell me her self, what happy moment there might be for me to entertain her in, more at large; she told me, That if I would stay till she had retir'd her self with the Duke, she might perhaps find out some means to return to me again; Upon which I did cast my self at her [Page 93]Feet, and kiss'd a thousand times one of her fair Hands; but she presently caus'd me to retire, because she heard the Duke comming, she tenderly pres­sing my hand with both her hands, as I took leave of her.

The impatient Amorous Duke gave me but just time sufficient to hide my self through the haste that he made to­wards Theresia; and very much con­cern'd at the interest that she had in my affairs, there being no interest that can proceed from indifferency; he pr­sently began the discourse on the same Chapter.

If, said he, you have any considerati­on in the World for me, you must no more mention the Lord N. to me, and you must likewise forbid him of seeing of you; As to no longer speaking of him to you, that will not be difficult for me to do, reply'd Theresia, but I cannot for­bid him seeing of me; It would too much concern my reputation; What would he think of it? continu'd she, that you are Jealous of him? or it may be that I Lov'd [Page 94]him; Do you not put me, my Lord, (added she,) on such observances; You have already but too much expos'd me to publick talk, and I will not make an end of ruining my self.

Well, Madam, (reply'd the Duke, with some passion,) I shall forbid him my self, since that you will not. That were the way, (reply'd Theresia,) to in­crease my design of seeing him; That you say, (reply'd the Duke,) is the way to give you the greater desire of seeing him; Yes doubtless, (reply'd Theresia,) and I do confess to you, that that manner of Li­ving to which I am daily reduc'd by you, is very cruel, it will at last come to pass, that I shall be compel'd to be Lock'd up like a Prisoner in my Chamber, as in a manner I am already, without the liber­ty of seeing any body; Rather say, Ma­dam, (interrupted the Duke,) that you have not began to take notice of this cruel Life, which others would not call so; But since the Lord N's. absence, that wheresoever he is not, you will think your self uneasy, and restrained; and that in [Page 95]fine, to gain your favour, I must my sef [...] invite him again to Court, and if you please conduct him to your Appartment. It is pitty he hears you not, (reply'd The­resia,) and I do believe that if he did but know the good Offices that you render him towards me, that he would return you thanks for them; For, to tell you the truth, to act as you do, would not be a means to drive a man from my heart; If he were there, it would rather be. Yes, it would, (interrupted the Duke in a pas­sion, having not the patience to let her make an end,) be the way to make you Love him. This is already done, (continu'd he,) but I shall prevent him, for enjoying such an happiness. It is not from this day that I know you to be Passionate, (reply'd Theresia, rising to be gone,) but if you would believe me, (continu'd she,) you would not be too ha­sty on that account; I shall not take Councel of you (reply'd the Duke;) and I do engage, that before it be Twenty-four hours longer, I shall rid my self of a per­son that gives me too much vexation, [Page 96]not to invite me to Banish him out of the Kingdom. And I engage to you, (re­ply'd Theresia,) that before Twenty-four hours are pass'd, I shall be no longer in this Court. That's the way, (reply'd the Duke,) to make me drive more home my resentments; Drive or not, (reply'd she,) this is what I will perform by to Mor­row.

By this time, they were got too far from me, to hear any more of their discourses; neither did I think it con­venient to follow them, after what I had heard; It is certain, that there ne­ver was any pleasure like to that which this conversation did give me; and that if Love had not engag'd me alrea­dy to give my heart unto the Beauti­ful Theresia; the bare knowledge of what she had done that night for me, had oblig'd me to Love her most pas­sionately; There wanted nothing to make me perfectly happy, but the sa­tisfacton of seeing her again one mo­ment only, before I went from thence, as she had promis'd me; but it appear­ed [Page 97]to me too much happiness at once; Yet she out-went my hopes, and I did see her return, even before I expected it, by reason that the Conversation which she had had with the Duke in the Garden, being not pleasant, as to invite him to the continuation of it in her Chamber, he had retired as full of Jealousy and Spight, as ever was a Lover.

I did run towards her, so soon as I perceived her, and casting my self at her Feet; What is it that I do not require of you, Madam? (said I,) after that good­ness, which you have expressed towards me this Night, had I a thousand Lives, though I should expose them all for you, I could not repay so many Graces and Fa­vours.

Alass, my Lord, (reply'd she, cau­sing me to rise,) I fear very much, that on the contrary, I have given you cause to hate me, I am return'd but only to tell you, with what rage against you, the Duke has left me; and at the same time to intreat you, not to wait the effects of [Page 97]his Passion, but to depart this very night from these Dominions. I, Madam, said I, (interrupting her,) go out of this Kingdom, to leave in the hands of a most violent man, and of a Rival, all that is dearest to me in the World, a Lady that has laid a side all other considerations to take my part, and to shew that I was more then indifferent to her.

Yes, my Lord, (reply'd she,) I have done so, and I can farther say, that I have done nothing in that, but what my heart has allowed of; And that if you have found me according to your heart the first time that you did see me, I have not found you unworthy of mine from the very first moment that I saw you, and that if ever any thing did vex me in all my life, it was when you gave the King unto the Dutchess, which in truth, I expected for my self.

And you had had it; that Ring, (an­swer'd I,) if it had been the Choice of my heart, which did then sufficiently draw me towards you; But the Duke— Yes, the Duke, (interrupted she,) always con­trary [Page 98]to my happiness, will be the cause of my Death.

The cause of your Death, (Madam, said I,) I it is not now time to extend your self on this Theme, (reply'd she,) you must think of returning your self with the soo­nest, into some place of safety, that I may have no more to fear as to your Life.

You, to fear in regard of my Life, Madam, (I reply'd with an Air whol­ly transported;) know, that if it must be sav'd, it cannot be but without you, and that I should sooner deliver my self up into the Dukes hands, than abandon you.

If I had not my Honour to mind, my Lord, (reply'd she sighing) I find a sufficient willingness in me to follow you, and to desire no other [...]ortune then yours, but the Honour of a Person of my Qua­lity—

What Danger is there in this, as to your Honour, (said I interrupting and Embracing her, with all that Tender­ness that I had,) with a man that gives you his Faith from this very moment.

She remain'd some time after this without answering, and presently leaning gently on me. If you give it me, (said she, with a languishing voice) Will you keep it then? I redoubling all the protestations, that a man in such a Passion as I was, could utter.

It is sufficient, (said she,) I am satis­fi'd; let us retire, and do what is most convenient, to shelter us from the Dukes violent temper, for in the condition I am at present, I do not find my self capable of giving you any Councel.

I did then propose to her, to Im­barque our selves that very night, and to retire into the Ecclesiastick Juris­diction; which she did approve of: and having at the same time turn'd to­wards the Gate of the Port of which I had the Key; We had scarce made some steps towards it, but that we perceiv'd the Dutchess coming from behind some Trees, who had heard all that we had said, and who throwing her self upon Theresia, to prevent her from following me; She call'd me a [Page 100]thousand times Perfidious, and Trea­cherous, while I was endeavouring to make her let go her Rival; which ha­ving done, at last, she cry'd out so loud that the Duke, who was not far from thence, and who in that despair that he was gone to Bed, did think of no­thing less then sleep, not knowing what was become of the Dutchess, did not believe that she was return'd into the Garden without some design; So that running thither with Five or Six Musqueteers, and as many Halberteers of his Guard; He came there at that time, that the Dutchess was making of that noise; and presently falling up­on me, calling me by all the Infamous names that he could think on.

I had made him to pass by some­thing of his fury, though I had nothing but a short Sword and my Dagger, if he had not been accompany'd with all those Halberteers, who after they had wounded me in two places, they knock'd me down with a blow which I receiv'd on my head, which caus'd [Page 101] Theresia to fall into a Swound, who was seconding of me as much as she could, and who saw the Blow given me.

The Dutchess, who in spight of all the Anger that she had against me, had also declar'd on my side; seeing me assaulted by so many, did think me Dead with that blow, and after that she had furiously flown out against the Duke; She took my Sword which she found on the Ground, and had like to have Kill'd with it the last that had wounded me, there being no ex­travagancy that she did not commit; threatning her Husband with Death, to revenge mine.

The Duke, whose fury was some­thing appeas'd at the sight of my body lying on the ground, knowing well what parties my Parents would be for him to deal with, who would ask him an account of my Bloud, even to the very last drop, having his mind whol­ly taken up, with all those troublesom thoughts, did not mind what his Wife [Page 102]said; and after he had given order to some of his People to Carry me into Castle-Novo, and immediatly to run for Surgeons, to see if there was any hopes of life left in me; But gave charge to others to take care of There­sia, and taking upon himself the care of the Dutchess, he led her back into her Appartment.

The Duke did what he could to pre­vent this business from breaking out; but in two or three days, the whole Court did know it.

Is was diversly discours'd, every one according to his fancy, there be­ing no Person that could imagine, how I had happened to be between those two Ladies, and why the Dutchess, (of whom there was a rumour that I was in good Intelligence with,) had cry'd out after me in that manner; and yet afterwards took my part against the Duke.

In fine, never did business give so much cause of reasoning in all Italy as that did, without being well under­stood; [Page 103] Theresia's Friends did immedi­ately come to fetch her home; whence presently after, News was brought that she was dead, either with Grief, or with Poison.

As for me, my Wounds being nor Mortal, I was judg'd past all danger at the very first dressing; and some days after in a condition to stir a­broad; But the Duke who would up­hold what he had done; and what was more, call me to an account for the at­tempt which I had committed in the night season, in his own Pallace, against his Life and Honour, accusing me of both.

He caused me to be under greater restraint than ever, in Castle-Novo, without the Liberty of seeing any body; so that he imform'd the Court of Spain, as he pleas'd himself, of all that pass'd, and if any of my Friends did write concerning it, to oblige me, it was so weakly, and in such obscure terms, not knowing how the business had really past; that part of my Re­lations, [Page 104](who were pre-possest with the Dukes complaints,) were against me, and I had been absolutely condemn'd, (if it were usual to do so,) without hearing of both parties.

I remain'd Six Months in this man­ner in Castle-Novo, without the least knowledge of any thing of my busi­ness, daily wishing for Death; After that of Theresia, which the Duke had been so cruel as to inform me of, not doubting but that it would be an ad­dition of troubles to me, which would conclude my Life.

When one day, about Nine or Ten at Night, I saw come into my Cham­ber a kind of Servant, which I thought that I had formerly seen, but where I could not remember; He drew near me, and presented me a Note; Do you not know Julia, my Lord? This was one of the Dutchesses Women, whom she had made her confident, and who had disguis'd her self like a Serving-Man to bring me this Note from her. I open'd it, and found in it these Words.

What occasion soever I had, to be very Angry with the Dutchess, on whom I did look on as the cause of all my misfortunes, this excess of bounty [Page 106]that she express'd towards me, when I did least think of it, and when I stood most in need of such a conside­rable assistance, did make an end of dissipating a nest of resentments which were remaining in my Heart against her; And after that I had told Julia, That I would willingly have made an an­swer to her Mistress, but that I had not Pen, Ink, or Paper, and that it had always been refus'd me; she promis'd to get me some the next day, by the means of two of my Guards, which the Dutchess had gain'd, after two Months endeavour, and that were with me Twenty-four hours every Week, which was from the hour of Twelve, till the next day at the same hour; So that it was absolutely neces­sary, that my Letters should be ready against that time, if I would have the same Guards to carry them.

I promis'd that they should; and af­ter that, having ask'd her some News of my concerns, she satisfi'd me as well as she could: But fearing to be sur­pris'd [Page 107]with me, because that all the Night I was hourly visited in my Chamber, I gave her leave to retire, with a Thousand Testimonies of ac­knowledgments, to her Mistress, of which I desired her to give her an ac­count.

Julia returned, and the next Mor­ning, I having been furnished by one of the Guards with all necessaries for Writing, I began with my Relations, unto whom I had divers things to re­late; after which I Writ a Note to return the Dutchess thanks, and to recommend my Letters to her care; This is the contents of that Note.

The Dutchess could not read my Note without melting into Tears, and though I had left open those Let­ters that went into Spain, she would [Page 109]not read them; but having seal'd them up, she had them both secretly and securely convey'd to Madrid.

From that time I did begin to find some comfort through the Dutchesses kind Assistance; who did not fail on all occasions, to give me some notice of all that pass'd, and daily to Write to me, more kindly then the other; it may be guest at, by this Note which she sent to me after a Bleeding.

I must confess, that in the sad con­dition that I was brought to, after seven Months of Imprisonment, in which time I had not seen any one, my sorrows and afflictions did leave but little room for such kind of Sen­timents; there was nothing but sor­row in my Heart, I made the Dutchess this answer.

These Letters of mine, which were more fill'd with complaints, then with tenderness, did not however less in­flame with love; The sensible Dut­chess, who did Bathe them in her Tears at the Lecture of them. My Relations in Spain had receiv'd mine; but at Court, they were so prepossess'd to my prejudice, and the Dukes party was so great, that all the answer which I had, was, That it might be hop'd, they should obtain from Court, to have me transfer'd to Madrid.

But those Court deliberations are such tedious things, besides the oppo­sitions that would be made by the Dukes party; that as Powerful as were my Relations, and though they were never so dilligent, it was likely, that those Afflictions, and that Melan­cholly which I had upon me, would [Page 112]Kill me, before that the order of this transportation should be Arriv'd at Naples.

And of truth, in the midst of all those troubles that I was sorrow'd with, I had rather have dyed then live; This was my condition, when one night, when it was those two Guards turn, that the Dutchess had gain'd to watch me, after that they had inform'd me that that night they had nothing to say to me from her, which had plung'd me yet into a grea­ter forrow, I perceiv'd come into my Chamber a Cavalier, very well accou­tred, who was Usher'd in by a Ser­vant, that did bear a Flambau before him.

I was surpris'd to receive such a vi­sit at that hour of the night, and I be­liev'd that it was not without some great consequences; I arose from my Bed, on which I was seated, and ad­vanced towards him, but he presently running towards me, he did imbrace me with his Eyes full of Tears, which I [Page 113]I felt falling on my Cheeks; This acti­on did surprise me more then the visit, and I did not doubt but that it was some friend from Madrid, who had obtained from the Duke to see me; but what was my astonishment, when that having look'd on him, I found that it was the Dutchess, and she that bore the Flombeau, Julia, What Ma­dam, is it you, (said I, going back two steps) thus to Honour me with this kind visit, in such a miserable place as this is?

It is not now time, my Lord, (an­swer'd she,) to examine that point of Honour, your liberty is the present busi­ness: See if you will receive it at my Hands, for it absolutely depends on me.

These sorrows Madam, (I reply'd,) which I feel in this place, are so great, and I am detained in them with so much Justice, that I should be excusable, should I receive that favour from my very Ene­mies: much more from a Person, to whom I am so much oblig'd.

But do you know, (said she Sighing,) what is expected as a reward from this freedom?

If that my Life, (I answered,) and all that belongs unto me.—

No, (reply'd she,) it is not that; What then could you desire? (I answer'd) that I were not highly oblig'd to perform, though you should not free me out of Pri­son?

It is, (said she,) that you should conduct me into Spain, where, when I am Arrived, you should be at liberty to go, and to do what you please.

I presently did find that this would not mend my business, but there was not any thing that I would not have done, to get out of Prison, hoping to defend my self better when got at liberty; Therefore I told the Dut­chess, That what she desir'd of me, was rather an Honour then an Acknowledg­ment; and that I should receive a very great satisfaction in doing her that ser­vice; And having ask'd her where we should go, she answered me with [Page 115]a Transport of Joy; Presently, if I pleas'd, that there was a Vessel ready in the Harbour to transport us to Barce­lonia.

So that I having no great prepara­tions to make, we went out of my Chamber, each of us cover'd with Hooded Coats, after the manner of the Souldiers of that Country; We did pass without any opposition quite through the Guards of the Castle, and came to the Key, where there was a Shallop that waited for us, which did carry us on Board the Vessel, and that very Night, the Wind being favour­able, we weigh'd Anchor for Barcelo­nia: I then began to feel some com­fort.

The Dutchess, who did very well Imagine that we ought to part so soon as we arrived in Spain, either for conveniency, or that she did believe that I did not Love her at such a rate, as to wholly give my self up unto her service, she did make all the advantage that she could, of that short time [Page 116]which was so favourable to her de­sires.

I must confess, that my heart did not plead very much in her behalf: But so many things which she had done for me, did require so much of gratitude and acknowledgment, that it perform'd out of duty, that which it was to have done through the di­ctates of Love,

Of certain, had I never lov'd any other but she, we had been both the more happy; for she did deserve a Gallant Persons whole heart.

I would often tell her so much, and give her a true account of my heart; but all that I could do did not in the least abate any thing of her Affections towards me.

Theresia was Dead, and therefore she having nothing but some few mournful Idea's to overcome, that had no Charms in them, she did not dis­pair to compass her design in some short space of time.

At last we Arriv'd at Barcelonia, where the Dutchess, no more then I, did not think fit to make our selves known.

We both Writ from thence to our Relations about our Concerns, and she had no desire to go to Madrid, till she had receiv'd an answer; which she did sometime after, though not very pleasing.

The Court had been already in­form'd of her flight, by an Express from the Duke: And her Action had been render'd there, the most guilty in the World; Of truth there were some circumstances in it, that could not well be excus'd, especially those wherein I was concern'd; so that her Relations being Highly Incensed a­gainst her, they Writ her word, that all that she had to do, was to return to her Husband, and that she should be but very ill receiv'd at Madrid, should she come there; where there was no more Friends or Relations on her account, if she would not follow their Councels.

Those Letters did sorely afflict her, and I was concern'd at them my self as much as I could be.

You see my Lord, (said she,) how that all the World does forsake me, and you are upon the point of doing the like.

Who I Madam! (I reply'd,) I hope that you know me better, to make that Judgment of me: I will not leave you, till you are no longer in a condition of having occasion of my services.

Ah! my Lord, (reply'd she Sigh­ing,) how contented should I be, not­withstanding all my misfortunes, if I could but believe that what you do for me, did proceed from a meer effect of your Heart, that only Thought would comfort me, against all my Misfortunes and Afflictions.

I have told you more then once, Ma­dam, (I reply'd,) that I had not a Heart that was Insenssible, and that you had acted too much for me, not to ac­knowledge.—

Will you never speak to me, (an­swer'd she, interrupting of me,) but of acknowledgments.

It is tenderness that I require from you; you know Madam, (I reply'd,) that I have of it for you, as much as I am capable to have.

Yes I know, (reply'd the Dutchess) that you have but very little of it for me, most miserable that I am, who having abandon'd and done all things for a Man, have yet much to do, to be belov'd by him.

She could not end those words without Tears. At which I being quite Molifi'd, What is it that you de­sire of me? (I cried out,) all that the most passionate Love can do, I will per­form.

You will do all things, (reply'd the Dutchess,) but Love me; and beside that what can I desire from you?

Do you doubt, (I reply'd,) of my Love?

Ah! (reply'd she) would I could not.

We often had such like discourses, which would somewhat comfort her in her afflictions.

At last, she was desirous to go to Madrid, in hopes to find a Sanctuary near her Mother, who had always Lov'd her most tenderly, and who had not approv'd of her Marriage with the Duke; I did offer to accompany her there, as I was oblig'd to do, and in Fifteen days we came to that City.

She was receiv'd by her Mother, with that tenderness, which she had expected.

As for my part, I remain'd unknown and concern'd, in a House that was not far from hers, and where she dai­ly did visit me, in a Thousand sorts of disguises, her Mother having that Complaisance for her, that all Women have that Love their Daughters.

But at last wearied with that sad and sedentary life, and it concerning my reputation also, as well as my li­berty, that my being there should not [Page 121]be known; I did resolve to depart, for fear at last of being discover'd, as it could not fail in time to happen.

I mention'd it to the Dutchess, and told her, That it was time for us to part.

That word as if it had been a Thun­der-stroke, did not only affright her Soul, but overcame her Heart also; at which changing colour, Part (said she,) and after that a flood of Tears did hinder her from continuing.

I let her know, with a sensible air, That she should have expected it; And that she did know that we had agreed at first, that I should not be above three days at Madrid, and that it was about three weeks since our Arrival there.

Alas, and what is three weeks, (re­ply'd she,) where there is Love?

Yes, (continu'd she,) I did expect that if Love did once lead you to Madrid, that it would have detain'd you there during three days; But do you Love, and then you will know what three days are in Love, which cannot be confin'd to three weeks.

I did endeavour to defend my self against all those reasons of Love, which she alledg'd, by reasons of Interest.

Saying, that both our concerns did require some small time of seperation, and that one single unfortunate mo­ment were capable of running us both, that we should be narrowly watched by her Husbands Friends; and that if ever it should so unhappily fall out, that they should prye into our visits, that I might take leave of my liberty, and of her also; that I would be im­mediately mew'd up in a Prison, and she in a Monastry.

From those reasons, that she would not allow of, I pass'd to those which concerns the affairs of the Heart, pro­testing to her That some Months of ab­sence, should not in the least diminish that passion which I had for her, and that she should have the satisfaction one day to see me return to Madrid, with more passion then ever for her, so soon as our concerns were in a better posture.

Good Heavens! (cry'd she, with Eyes full of Tears,) with what assu­rance can I build upon those promises, the very impatiency that you shew of leaving me, (continu'd she,) does contradict what you say,

You are still perfidious, and your de­signs in leaving me, are but to run after some new ingagements, which will make you forget that which you have for me.

I did endeavour to settle her, and to divert her from all those fears: And as it is no difficult thing for a Lover that pleases, to perswade what he will; I at last gain'd her on my side, and made her resolve to see me go within three days.

Those three days were no sooner expir'd, but that her Tears began a­fresh, to ask me another; so that e­very night I took leave of her, and every morning I was retain'd.

But at last my Affairs groing worse by such a length of time ill employ'd, and my Enemies taking advantages from my neglects; I did see the ab­solute [Page 124]necessity that there was to de­part, which I was resolv'd to do with­out giving notice to the Dutchess of it, but all in vain, for by three the next Morning she was at my Lodgngs, where she did strangely surprise me; There we began our Caresses a new, there were Tears, Sighs, Groanes, Faintings, and all the Sorrows that could accompany so cruel a separa­tion; but it could not divert me from the resolution that I had taken.

So that after I had been some hours in comforting her; I got into a Coach, which carried me half a League out of town, where my Horses waited for me, and having pass'd through France, I went into Flanders, where I still pursue my Concernes.