BOOK I.

THE Sun was already so far declin'd, that his heat was not offensive, when a Stranger richly Arm'd, and proporti­onably blest with all the gifts of Nature, and Education, alighted at the Temple of Hierapolis in Syria, where the Queen of Love had setled an Oracle, as fa­mous as the Deity, to whom it was Consecrated. The Stranger having dis­arm'd himself, and learnt the unusual silence of the Goddess, commanded his servant to enquire out some retir'd lodg­ing for him, which whilst he was do­ing, his Master walk't about that sacred place, without so much as con­sidering the beauty, and rareness of the structure, and with so lan­guishing and careless a pace, that those which consider'd it, easily judg'd, 'twas chiefly the distempers of his Mind, which had so strong an influence over his Body. Amongst many that were so employed, Callimachus, the Prince of that holy Society, was so ravisht with those charms, which in spight of fortunes cruelties, did yet inhabit his face and shape, and so strangely sympathiz'd in those crosses, whose effects were not more apparent, than their causes unknown; that he could not abstain from interrupting the strangers melancholly, by going to salute him, where after those civilities which are usually practis'd in such en­counters, he invited him into a less frequented walk than that he had chosen: The stranger inform'd of his quality and profession, was unwil­ling to be uncivil to either, and therefore obeyed his invitation, but had far rather employ'd the time of the Oracles silence in the enter­tainment of his thoughts, though they never permitted him so much as a good expectation, always representing his hopes and fears through a false Optick, which had so transcendently alter'd him, that if the Gods [Page 2] could have been mistaken in the infliction of their punishments, so strange a change had made them doubt, they had been so in him.

The good Callimachus, who judg'd by the reliques what the perfecti­on had been, led him purposely alone into a solitary Walk, to learn his Adventures, and perceiving the unintermissiveness of his melan­choly, he took that for the rise, and told him, I have had no small dis­pute, Sir, with my self, before I resolv'd to beg of you a relation of your life; for I know by experience, that the repetition of a misfor­tune is a new one, but the great Goddess, whose unworthy Priest I am, hath often rais'd a curiosity in me to learn the Adventures of ma­ny who come to consult her Oracle, and afterwards has inspir'd me with such advice, that from thence they have deriv'd their future happiness: And I am strongly perswaded you may enjoy an advantage equal un­to many others, if you will furnish me with a resembling means. Alas, Sir, the Stranger reply'd, though I am confident your Goddesses fa­vours to you are great, and that your judgment is so, yet the higher Powers have so incessantly persecuted me, that my folly would propor­tion my misfortunes, did I expect any ease but in the Grave; neither do I know whether then I shall be at quiet; for sleep being the Image of Death, and my Dreams tormenting me as much as my Thoughts, I may with too much reason suspect, that what is the remedy of all afflicti­ons to others, will loose that property where I am concern'd. The vir­tuous Callimachus here interrupted him by saying, I shall not much won­der that your miseries are great, since your diffidence of the Gods is so: They are never more offended than when men despair of their Providence, nor readier to assist, then when there is no visible relief, and yet a firm reliance on it: The Deity being never more apparent than in doing things as well beyond the Expectation, as the de [...]ert of Man. Then taking the Stranger by the hand, he begg'd his pardon for so necessary an interruption, beseeching him to believe that great Truth, which both his profession, and experience made him utter. The Stranger found this reprehension to be as just as civil; and after having assur'd Callimachus that 'twas his melancholly (not he) that had offended, did offer him as a Penance to relate his Fortunes. Callimachus being highly satisfied with it, answer'd him, You see how much the Gods are pleas'd with those which assume their quarrel, for my performing it has not only produc'd the ambition'd effect of making you perceive your fault, but hath be­sides procured an engagement I was almost as impatient of, and would it might please those Powers to give me the means as certainly to reme­dy your misfortunes, as I am confident I shall be a sharer in them. By that time this Civility was answer'd, they were come into a Walk so co­ver'd with Yew and Cypress, that it appeared a fit Scene for so sad a Sto­ry, where Callimachus's silence made the Stranger begin this ensuing Re­lation.

PARTHENISSA.
THE FIRST PART.
BOOK II.

THE morning was hardly old enough to permit a vi­sit with civility, when the impatient Callimachus went to Artabanes Chamber, to beg a continuance of that Story, whose beginning had so satisfied him; But Simander assur'd him, that his Prince was gone an hour before into the Grove of Cypresse, to entertain his melancholly. Callimachus (whose Curiosity was so great, that it was uncapable of Delay, went presently to find him out, which, after a diligent search he did, in one of the most retir'd and ob­scure corners of it, and in a posture better expressing Sadness, than Elo­quence could; his Back was lean'd against a withered Tree, his Eyes e­rected towards Heaven, his Arms folded one within the other, and so many Tears running down his Cheeks, that if moisture could have re­viv'd that dead Trunk, it had needed no other Rain for its recovery. And that his words might express what his gestures did, Callimachus heard him cry out. Ye Gods! must I never be acquainted with your Power? but onely through those Miseries you cast upon me by it? alas! Why do ye furnish me with so much Frailty, and yet provoke me so much to despair: or Why do our Priests teach us there is a Providenc; when you are so careful by your Actions, to evince the contrary? then hang­ing down his Head, he continu'd in a perfect silence, till he himself drew it by a second Deluge of despair, which drowning both his De­votion and Reason, necessitated him to expostulate thus, with whom it was a Crime to do it. But what sins have I committed, to deserve so deep a suffering? yet, allow my Guilt had been too great for your Mercy, your Justice might have inflicted a punishment on my person, which might have equal'd my offences; for you are no gods, if you are not infinite in all your Attributes; but being so, why did the fair Par­thenissa suffer for my fault? or else was it a more sensible way of perse­cuting me, to do it through Her? If this were your Design, O gods! I have more reason in exclaiming against you, than you had for impo­sing on me, that which provokes me to it; and to it; and to afflict the innocent to torment the Guilty, does rather argue Malice than Justice.

This impious reasoning frighted the good Callimachus, who fearing lest it should continue, discover'd himself, and by a sharp and eloquent Reprehension, disclos'd his anger, and the justice of it. To which Arta­banes reply'd, That if he were acquainted with his Miseries, he would im­pute what he had then utter'd, to his sufferings, and not to his irreli­gion. Alas, Artabanes (said Callimachus) how does your Passion blind you? For you do not consider, that Sin is as odious to the Deities, as insepara­ble [Page 28] from Humanity; that 'tis an unexpressible Mercy, they do not inolve us in all those Miseries, their Power and Justice is capable of: and whilst there is any Curse not yet inflicted on us, we have more reason to esteem them unjust for their Clemency, than for the contrary. 'Twas with such Truths as these, that at last Callymachus disperst those Clouds of Dispair, which so darkened our unfortunate Lovers Piety, and then conjur'd him to finish that Relation he had the day before begun. To which Arta­banes reply'd: I entertain'd you the last night with the beginning of my own story, but now I must in order to it, acquaint you with that of my Friends; the generous Artavasdes, who was taken Prisoner, (as you heard) in the Battel of Arontes, and whose Gallantry had receiv'd a Punishment almost as great as it merited the contrary, had not I had the happiness to prevent it.

The King of Armenia with the Reliques of his broken Army, retreat­ing into his own Kingdom, attempted a small Town of the Parthians, call'd Offala, imagining by the taking of so little, to disguise a loss which had been so great. The Garrison being inconsiderable, as well for their Numbers as Resolutions, at first summons condescended to a Treaty, and then to a Surrender; but had four and twenty hours given them for the packing up their Baggage, during which, the Armenians had free access at their pleasure, which proved fatal to the Parthians; for Artaba­zus's Soldiers, whether to revenge their Companions deaths at the prece­dent Battel, or out of some dispute which happen'd betwixt those of the Army and the Garrison (as the Armenians gave it out) put all that were in Offala, as well Citizens as Soldiers, most barbarously to the Sword; which news, as soon as it came to Arsaces knowledge, so infinitely trans­ported him, that he vow'd, the generous Artavasdes Bloud should expiate his Kings Crimes, and be a sacrifice to the Manes of his murder'd Sub­jects. And though Pacorus represented how unjust a Revenge this was, being a violation of that quarter of his life, which he had too gene­rously hazarded, to lose it in a way, which was so much the contrary, yet the King vowed by his Fathers Ashes (an oath that he never men­tion'd, but afterwards he was unalterable) that Artavasdes should dye. I was present when this sad determination was taken up, and finding how unlike my perswasions were to deserve that name, I resolv'd to pre­vent my Friends Ruine, and hinder my Prince from acting it, in a way too as unfitting for him, as the punishment was unworthy the Person for whom it was intended. To effect this, I went instantly to look Artavas­des out, for (though a Prisoner) without any engagement, he had what liberty he desir'd. After a diligent search, I found him in a Wilderness of one of the Palace Gardens, where having acquainted him with what had happen'd, and was resolv'd, I begg'd him to retire a private way that led to my Lodgings, where he might remain secure, till his escape were believ'd so certain that it self might contribute to it: But his generosity was so great (knowing the danger to be so, in which I should fall, were he discover'd) that his care of me had like to have render'd mine fruitless for him, for it was so long before I could prevail with him, to accept of his safety by a hazard of mine, that the Kings Guards were already abroad for his Committal, and had not the way been very private to my Chamber, we had (doub­tless) been discover'd before we had reach'd it: but we came at last safe thi­ther, where I commanded Symander to wait on him, and permit no other of my Servants that Honor, nor to know of his being there; From thence I went to learn what course was taken for his discovery, and how failing in it, was [Page 29] relisht; I was soon acquainted, that all the gates of Ninive were shut, and that one Rysolis, a friend of mine, was that night with some of the Guard to follow Artavasdes (in case he were not found out before his de­parture) and that his believed escape had so much exasperated the King, that he gave strict order none should pass the gates without his own Li­cense, till Rysolis's return; who, by chance, I found, as he was preparing himself for his Journey, and by his expressions quickly observ'd how much the Office displeas'd him; His affection to virtue and to me, made me dis­cover to him where Artavasdes was concealed, and conjur'd him to let him pass as one of his Troop, and thereby render what was intended for his ruine, the means of preventing it. This request found a ready re­turn; for he was as joyfull to serve me, as unwilling to obey his King in so unjust a command: Then having promis'd me, that within two or three hours he would call at my Lodgings; and undertake my desires; we se­parated our selves, he to prepare himself, and I to acquaint Artavasdes, with his civility, who embrac'd it with moderation, and then told me, If I thought it would not be too great a trouble to you, I would employ the time I have left, in telling you the particulars of a life you are so earnest to preserve. To which I reply'd, That it was a favour I should have passionately begg'd of him, had not the apprehension of being thought too curious, been more prevalent with me than my own satisfaction, but since he was pleas'd to make that Overture, which nothing else had hinder'd me from making, I would listen to his adventures, with an intention which would speak how highly I was concern'd in them. Artavasdes ha­ving told me I could not be concern'd in any thing that was more mine than himself, began this ensuing Story.

PARTHENISSA.
THE FIRST PART.
BOOK III.

I Left off the last night in so glorious a p [...]osperity, that it was hardly capable of accession, but by being un­capable of Diminution; but alas, all those morning glories were soon clouded: for Parthenissa was so per­fect, that whereas in other Women, Fancy is the Rule for Beauty, in her, Judgement was; and where there were Eyes to see her, there was a Heart to adore her. In the beginning of my Fortunes, I acquainted you with a Prince of the Parthians, called Surena, whose Person, Extraction, and Parts, render'd him very considerable. This Gentleman one day, saw the fair Parthenissa, and consequently fell in love with her (for that was an unsever'd effect of seeing her) and as all things naturally desire their satisfaction, and pre­servation, so the wound which those fair eyes had made (though unvo­luntarily) was too dangerous to delay the cure; he found, after a long debate, that the Fire was too pleasing to be quencht, that the end was so inviting, the way could not be the contrary, although none could heal the wound but she that made it; and to say truth, my Rival had too vi­olent a flame to conceal it long, and thought it was to be unjust unto himself, to languish without acquainting the Author of his Torments with them, who perhaps, might be as willing to ease him, as he was apprehen­sive of the contrary. This resolution once assum'd, he conveys a Letter one evening into Parthenissa's Night-cloaths (but by what Art I could not then imagine) pre-supposing she would perceive it there, and so out of curiosity read it. That which made Surena hasten this Essay, was, That the next morning Lindadory being to Hunt a wild Bore, to sacrifice it to Ceres, as an Annual Duty, and having learnt Parthenissa would accompa­ny her, he imagin'd, that during the Chase, he might discover what effect his Letter had produc'd; for not having the happiness to be known to her, he could take no just pretence, to be inform'd of it at her own house.

The morning destin'd for Hunting being come, and she intending to honour my Sister with her company, I went to wait upon her to Court, and coming something early, I found her not drest; it happen'd too, that when I came in, Zianthe, that waited on Parthenissa, and who was the onely Confident in her Amours, was gone out about some occasion; and my Princess uncovering her Night-Linnen, I perceiv'd Surena's Let­ter, but not knowing what it was, I told her (Laughing) I see Madam, you have a Servant, besides Artabanes, that dares declare he adores you; for by the place you think fit to give that Paper, I cannot but imagine [Page 65] 'tis sent from some body that has a Passion for you. Parthenissa, who thought it had been some Verses I had made, and hidden there purposely, told me, smiling, I renounce all Servants but Artabanes, and to shew you I am real in what I say, I give you leave to unseal the Letter, and conjure you to read it aloud. And I, conceiving it had been somewhat of Raillery open'd it, and read these ensuing words.

O gods! if Thunder had fallen at my feet, my amazement had been far short of what it was at the ending of this Letter, and if silence had been a sign of guilt, I might have thought Parthenissa capable of it: For my part I knew not what to say, to suspect her constancy was a crime too great to enter into my thoughts, and how that Letter was brought in the place I found it, I could as little imagine, but lest my silence might breed in her, a sinister opinion of my belief, I told her. Madam, I hope this experiment will make you acknowledge, that my saying, I had as many Rivals, as be­holders of you, was rather a Truth than any thing else. I must confess, she answer'd, I had rather believ'd you than have had this witness brought to convince me; but that Truth cannot be greater than my admiration, how this Letter came hither, unless for your diversion you writ it your self, and fixt a name to it, which I believe as little dreams of Love for me, as I do to confer mine on him: And therefore, I beseech you Arta­banes, rid me of the trouble I am in, by telling me the truth. Madam (I reply'd) by the respect I owe you, I neither writ the Letter, nor ever saw it till now, but I do know the Hand to be Surena's. Upon this as­surance, I saw her put on a more serious countenance, and having conti­nued silent a while, she told me, I was, till now, confident, Artabanes, that you should need no other way to reap my Heart, than by my Actions: but now I fear, to continue me in your good opinion, I must make use of Vows, and consequently owe that to your goodness, which I assur'd to my self always to obtain from your Justice. Therefore I swear by all that is most holy, and by our endless Passions, I never knew that Surena lov'd me, nor can fancy how this Letter came to my hands; besides these Pro­testations, you may imagine, if I had had the perfidious design of recei­ving any addresses but yours, I would never have disclos'd it my self. I had not the patience to hear her further, and begging her pardon for it, I reply'd, Ah Madam, what do you mean, you could not use me thus, but by esteeming me guilty of believing you unconstant; for the punish­ment you now impose on me, is too great for any other crime: when you would raise my Faith to credit any thing you speak, if you make use of Vows, or imagine there can be a higher reason to induce my belief, [Page 66] than your commanding it, you do me as great an injury, as I should do your Virtue, or my own Felicity, could I think you capable of change; neither can I be more certain that your eyes conquer whosoever they look upon, than I am, that your generous Mind despises every Victory, but that over the too too happy Artabanes. Truly (said she) if there be an obligation in doing Justice, I now received one from you, and must increase the score, by beseeching your advice, how to suppress this growing flame, with such secresie, that none may know it liv'd, but we that know 'tis dead; for if I do not answer him, he may feed him­self with hope; and if I do, I then acquaint him that I know his Passion, and though my return be never so cold, he may impute it to a wrong cause, and so that which we elect for the extinction of his Passion, may prove the nouriture. As I was about to answer her, Zianthe came in, of whom Parthenissa ask'd very strictly, how that Letter came, where 'twas found, who seem'd to wonder at the accident, as much as we, and upon her as­surance of endeavouring to discover the Actor, we gave over any fur­ther enquiry of it, and apply'd our selves, how to remedy the business, and to ease the fair Parthenissa of it; I undertook so to manage this new Love, as I would free her from any future trouble by it. Zianthe, who imagin'd I would elect that course, which all Rivals use, to rid them­selves of their competitors, presently told her softly, that she foresaw I would decide this difference by a Duel, which could not but be fatal to her, which soever way Fortune inclin'd: For if Artabanes prov'd victo­rious, the strict inhibitions the King had so often reiterated against Du­els (though it were his own Son that fought them) and the powerful prosecution of Surenas's Friends, will, if he escape not the hands of Justice, assuredly bring his Head upon the Scaffold; or if he do, then a perpetual banishment will inevitably follow, and you must not expect, that his be­ing the first Prince of the Blood, will be any Title to hope for a sparing of his; on the other side, if Surena's Sword prove victorious, you cannot any way fancy the greatness of your grief, but by comparing it to that of your loss, and which soever way the chance does fall, you must come upon the Stage, and then you are at the mercy of any that will blemish your Reputation, which though unjustly taxed, is of so pure a tincture, the stain will never be effac'd. These reasons of Zianthe's, and many others of the like quality, were so prevalent with Parthenissa, that she came to me, and conjur'd me by the strictest tyes she could invent, not to take any notice to Surena of his Letter, which if I did, she would esteem it as an argument I suspected her constancy needed my help, and she ambiti­on'd I should derive the entire possession of her Affection, onely from Her, and not from my Sword: Besides (she continued) what greater punishment can you inflict upon your Rival, than to see him deny'd what you so absolutely possess; and if his Perseverance be great, my Ri­gor shall not be inferior to it, which will render him an object fitter for pity, than your hatred. Many other reasons she alledg'd, and after all she would not quit her Chamber, till I had faithfully promis'd to obey her. Immediately after we went to prosecute our intended sport. That day Surena seem'd to accompany the Prince Phraates, but it was indeed, to wait an occasion, to know what effect his Letter had produc'd. The assurance I had in Parthenissa's Vertue and Affection, made me further all I could, my Rivals designe, that she might find my confidence was more in her, than in my self. But I easily saw, that Surena did not more endeavour to meet her, than she to avoid him, yet at last in a narrow lane, where 'twas im­possible [Page 67] to do so any longer, I saw him fall into discourse with her, but being at too great a distance, I could not hear it, yet I perceived by some passionate gestures, he was very earnest in what he said, but after a quar­ter of an hours time, the company parted them, and I easily read in his looks his success. The Sun by his declining, warn'd the Hunters to retire, and Parthenissa, accompanying my Sister to her Lodgings, begg'd her, that we might be private, and then having acquainted her with my Ri­vals Letter, she told me, You remember Artabanes, the long narrow lane we rid through, it was there where Surena overtook me, and if he deri­ved any pleasure from his entertainment, he owed it not to my inclinati­on, but my necessity. After a few indifferent discourses, he told me, with some disorder, I perceive, Madam, by your shunning of me, that my Letter, which declared my Passion, is fallen into your hands, and I now find my apprehensions were not unjustly grounded. Sir, (said I) I must confess this morning I found a Letter in my Chamber, which I burnt, if it were, as you say, a declaration of your passion, would that were also reduc'd to that nothing the Paper is. Ah Madam (he reply'd) can you be so resembling to the gods in Beauty, and not in disposition? for they are never offended with a Heart which does adore them with that devoti­on, which mine does you: if it be a crime for me to love you, then it is a sin for you to be so lovely: and if my Flame be an offence, you must quar­rel with your perfections, which are the causes of it. If your Passion (I reply'd) be so great as you say it is, I must then believe your imagina­tion, not your judgement, attributes those perfections to me which has rais'd it, for Beauty being but Fancy, you may perswade those, which otherwise would tax your choice, that you pereive as many perfections in me, as I know I want, but lest your affection may prove a deceitful optick, my Charity shall put you in the right way, which is to decline your addresses to me, for besides my great want of merit, I am as rigid as the perfectest of my Sex, therefore, I beseech you, owe this cure to your Reason, and not to Time. Madam (he answer'd) 'tis Reason gave the wound, and neither Time nor your Disdain, shall ever make me alter the resolution I have so justly assum'd, you may as easily hope to separate Light from the Sun, as my Heart from that Passion which possesses it: no, fair Par­thenissa, I am resolv'd, if I cannot be Loves Favourite, I will be his Martyr, and if your Scorns cannot extinguish my Desires, the coldness of the Grave shall never triumph over them, but the gods will preserve so pure a Flame a live, to be a pattern for future Lovers to imitate. Sir, (said I) so much affection deserves all that I can return, which is my Friendship, and that again conjures you not to cast away so noble a Passion on one that must be necessarily ungrateful, for that which you desire I have given to another, and were it in my Power to recall it, it is not in my Will. I hope this will shew you with how much justice I intreat you not to ingage your self in so ruinous a design, for should I now confer on you my Love, and you receive it, your indiscretion will be as great as you would perswade me your passion is, for my constancy, (the cause of your contentment) would be always the occasion of your fear. Ah Madam (he reply'd) would to the gods you were but yet pleased to bless me with your Affection, for then the joy would be so absolute, that I should onely have the Power to contemplate it, and not how I came to the fruiti­on of it. But Madam, I am too bold to hope for any pleasing answer, till my Services assure the vastness of my Passion. I bless this hour, that gave me opportunity of telling you of it, and that your Rigor [Page 68] cannot be greater than my perseverance. Thereupon (without sta [...]ing for an answer) he went away; But I impute those words (she continu'd) to the first flame of Love, which commonly is the most violent: For my part, I am resolv'd to wear so much coldness on those actions which re­late to him, that if he have that spirit men believe, I am confident 'twill change his love into resentment. Madam (my sister reply'd) I foresee many sad accidents will oppose your loves, if by a speedy overture un­to your friends you do not consummate a Nuptial; What should divert you from that election? Your Flames are too virtuous and too just not to be owned; and being so, who will oppose them; this declaration will silence all Rivals growing Loves, and make your happiness as sure as 'twill be great. Ah Sister (I answer'd) 'tis true, our Passions are so pure, they know not a comparison; but yet my Father (whose commands I re­ceiv'd last night) will, I am fearful, resist this vast felicity; for as soon as I had left you, he sent for me to wait on him, which I did, and after he had walked two or three turns without speaking one word, he at last told me: Artabanes, The gods having given me the blessings of a son, I have found so high an one in it, that I shall enjoin you to endeavor to partake of the like contentment; I should think my death as full of contentment as my life has been of honor, could I see you matcht in a Family that might assure me you should have a successor wor­thy of ours: To effect this has been long my care, and never till now could accomplish it: It is but lately I had a motion made me, which I much approve; 'tis the Princess Zephalinda (Surena's Sister) whose Vir­tues, Beauty, Person, and Blood, assures me you will think your self highly satisfi'd with such a Marriage, at least I shall be. I must confess this de­claration did infinitely surprize me; but least he should guess the true cause of my astonishment, I told him: In the first place Sir, as I cannot but return my humble thanks for your care, so I must not but acquaint you, that I am not ignorant of how high a concernment Marriage is, be­ing happiness or misery, till death dissolves the knot; and since Felicity is onely opinion, there is none can prescribe positive rules for the making it; but every man must be his own judge; contentment something resem­bling mens tastes; that which is pleasing to one, to another may be poy­son. The consequence being so great, and the choice not to be made by Proxy, I shall beseech you give me leave to learn whether that Princess be possessor of such perfectious as may assure me of such happiness: this nothing but time can do; and if she appears not such to me as she does to you, I will then acquaint you with it, and hope you will not compel me to make her and my self miserable. As I am (said he) Artabanes in­dulgent to you, so I expect that you be obedient unto me; and then he withdrew himself into his Closet. This was the substance of his pro­posal, and my return to it, for I did not hold it fit to acquaint him with my Passion till first we had advis'd together: for I perceiv'd by his last words how his inclination stood, and I too well knew how difficult he is to be removed when he has once taken up a resolution not to be so. Then I besought Parthenissa to honor me with her advice, since I had put all that was dear unto me to her ordering. To which she told me. Moneses hu­mor (which I am absolutely ignorant of) being the chief thing in this affair, by which we are to be guided, makes me as unfit to advise; as your knowledge of it renders you most capable. Madam, (I reply'd) that my Father is resolv'd to be obey'd is not more certain, than that I am determin'd the contrary, for in this case obedience is a crime, so that [Page 69] the end being now resolv'd, we have nothing to advise upon but the means that may best conduce unto it. Which in my opinion Madam (said Lindadory) is, that Artabanes, make some seeming addresses to Zephalin­da (for Moneses is sooner vanquish'd by yielding than resistance) and doubtless she cannot be so perfect (especially being compar'd with the fair Parthenissa) but he may find some defect in her person or hu­mour, which may make his declining her appear an effect of his judge­ment, not disobedience: for if my Father find his refusal of serving her, roceeds from his being possest with a Passion for another, he will impute my Brothers deserting Zephalinda to his Pre-ingagement; and then I am so well acquainted with his disposition, that it will be impossible to alter it. Thus by concealing your Flames a little longer, you may attain that happiness which by a speedy declaring of them, may receive many ob­structions, if not an absolute ruine. Madam (said Parthenissa to Linda­dory) I much apprehend if Artabanes can have no other inducements to obtain Moneses's permission of declining Zephalinda, and making his ad­dresses to me, than her imperfections, and my having none, that the ar­gument may be justly reverted by your Father, who may more aptly apply that to Zephalinda, which your goodness confers on me. My Princess (I reply'd) there could be no greater joy befall me than that Moneses were to consider both with the eyes of justice, and that I were to possess his election, you will then quickly find how injurious to your self modesty has been, and how vast a felicity his judgement will confer on me. I have (said Parthenissa) so good an opinion of yours, that I will banish those apprehensions the knowledge of my own defects do raise in me; and they being supprest, I have nothing to say against the fair Lindadory's advice. 'Tis not enough (I reply'd) that you have nothing to say against it, but if you will have it observ'd (Madam) you must strictly enjoin it me, for I have so great a reluctancy to that action, that it must be some powerfull Charm as your Commands which can make me undertake it. Since (reply'd Parthenissa) the performance is so necessary, and that you assure me the onely means that must enable you to do it, is my Commands, I do enjoin you it, but my affections make me (I fear) uncharitable to Zephalinda, by wishing, you may quickly find as many defects in her, as I desire perfections to merit your esteem. Madam (I reply'd) the first of your wishes is as unnecessary as the last; for when Zephalinda is to be paralell'd to you, it would be as difficult to find no imperfections in her, as to find any in you. Having taken this resolution, I began to apply my self to put it in practice; and that which gave me some probability of its suc­cess was, that Zephalinda had as much aversion to Love, as Beauty to create it. The first addresses I made her, were receiv'd with a coldness proportionate to her practice and my desires. But I must confess, I contributed as much as I could to it, and apprehended nothing so much, as that which most men in Parthia would have esteem'd their highest Felicity. I know not whether that which I intended as the means to want her affection, pro­cured it: for I have been told, that some Women, where they find but an indifferency, make it their design to bring it to an extreme; and so mens coldness does often ingender their Flame: But whatsoever was the cause, I began too soon to perceive that which I too much fear'd; and knowing now she once honor'd me with her affection, it would be difficult if not impossible any longer to conceal mine; I resolv'd forthwith to acquaint Parthenissa with it, who I found exceedingly satisfied with the ingenuity of my proceeding, and by the greatness of her contentment for an action [Page 70] she could but in justice expect; I somewhat believ'd she had a diffidence, whether that which was begun as a pretence, were not turn'd into a re­ality; having once taken up this opinion, I cast out some words which might give her a rise to conceive it, and she who had as piercing an in­spection as any Creature was capable of, soon conceiv'd my suspitions, and as readily acknowledg'd the justice of them, but with words so apt­ly appropriated to her design, that she made that little jealousie the high­est obligation she could place on me, as proceeding from a proportionate Passion: and to say truth, Zephalinda was capable of shaking a constancy less firm than mine; for besides her Beanty, which was fitter for wonder than description, she had a freeness and a grace in all her action, peculiar to herself, and surpast by none but Parthenissa; her wit and virtue were resembling unto all her other qualities, and (in a word) she enjoy'd so many perfections, that had I not been prepossest with a former Passion, I had esteem'd hers as great a happiness as I then thought it a misfortune. But perceiving by Parthenissa's words, that she had contracted some little diffidence of me, and knowing that where there is once a jealousie, eve­ry thing contributes to the growth of it; I told her, Madam, since I find, that there may be an ill construction made of that which I under­took but by your commands, I am resolv'd with your permission (which I humbly beg) to take away all occasion of such a misfortune; for being innocent I would not look like guilty. The way, Madam, which I would propound, is, freely to acquaint Zephalinda with our Passions; and truly I have discover'd so much virtue and discretion in her since my feign'd addresses, that my duty to them, if not you, would confine me to this; and which proceeding will not onely take off her resentment for what is past, but invite her assistance in the future, and that in my opinion can in no way be so effectually done, as by obtaining from her to use me with a disdain so unsufferable that my declining her may appear as just to my Father as it will be necessary to me. Parthenissa would not grant my desire, till first she had received reiterated assurances from me, that I made it, not to satisfie her suspition, which my expressions had not done sufficiently, but as I held it a justice to Zephalinda, and the best way in order to our affairs. This was no sooner fixt upon, than I apply'd my self to out an opportunity to act it: and not many dayes after, I lighted upon one, such as I desir'd; for going to wait upon Zephalinda, I found her alone in her Closet, where (having shut the door) I flung my self at her feet, and told her, Madam, I know not with what face I shall disclose a secret to you, neither do I well know how I can longer conceal it: Your goodness makes me desire to tell it, and the same goodness makes me a asham'd to do so; but since persevering in my crime, will make the mercy I beg of you an injustice, I will no longer conceal it. 'Tis Madam, though I have made my addresses unto you, I have given my heart and liberty to Parthenissa; I was forc'd to this crime to obey Moneses, and disguise a Passion as great as the offence by which I did so; but that which some­what extenuates my sin is, that as soon as I had the honor to know you, I made my self known unto you, and as a testimony of the high and just opinion I have of your virtue, the same instant in which I declar'd I have injur'd you, I trust you with the power to punish it; my ignorance of you made me commit my crime, and my knowledge of you makes my pennance, which I am confident is more severe than your justice can be. The gods shall bear me witness, had I not been preingag'd, I should have implor'd the joy of your affection with raptures as worthy the felicity, [Page 71] and I do ill deserve it; but since it was otherwise destin'd, give me leave to conjure you to convert your affection into friendship; I am ca­pable of that, though not worthy of it; and since I cannot give you the first place in my heart, permit me to give you an equal one in my esteem: This Madam is the condition, and this is the request of the crimi­nal Artabanes; who can hardly have the confidence to beg your pardon, because he knows himself unworthy of it; and having so highly wrong'd your goodness, must not expect that for his satisfaction you will wrong your justice. Though I know this discourse did trouble her, yet she conceal'd hers with so much art, that I almost doubted what I was certain of; but judging by my silence that I expected an answer, [...] as­sur'd me, she would not give i [...] till I were risen, in which I obey'd her, and then she told me, That you have obtain'd a Mistress, Artaban [...], more worthy of you than I am, shall always be my satisfaction, and not my trouble; if I have receiv'd your counterfeit Flame, 'twas because you as­sur'd me it would create your felicity; and if I paid you a reall one, 'twas a duty to your merit; but since I lov'd you more than my self, and that the declining of my affection will be more pleasing than the continuance; the same consideration which made me give it you, will reduce me to recall it, yet I could wish you had never rais'd it, or that you had ap­ply'd some other cure for its suppression; but I hope I shall be so much Mistress of my inclinations, as if they have an existence, yet they shall be invisible; and if they must trouble any, it shall be Zephalinda onely, Who believing your professions before her no title to them, too soon en­tertain'd a hope of that, which 'twere an injustice to confer upon her: for that friendship which you beg, it shall be pay'd you, with a con­stancy and zeal worthy the object; and I will value yours at so high a rate, that I shall esteem it almost a sufficient reparation for that pleasing happiness you have robb'd me of. Ah! Madam (I reply'd) can you so soon pardon, and so soon oblige? Will you then allow no interval be­tween my fault and your reward? If any thing could make me think my being Parthenissa's misfortune this would; but my condition is such, that the breath I should spend in the expressions of my gratitude, I must employ in begging you to increase the causes of it; 'tis Madam, that you would henceforth use me in publick with your highest scorn; This my unwor­thiness and your resentment may quickly lead you to; and upon this de­pends my future joy; but if you should entertain me so in private, 'twould blast all my happiness, and destroy what it should build; for by the know­ledge of your virtues, I find your friendship is as necessary to my content­ment as Parthenissa's love. I know not (said Zephalinda) to what intent you mean this; but if it be to delude the World, the action will be so op­posite to my inclination, that my ill counterfeiting will reveal what you would strive to hinder. Then (I reply'd) I am undone, and to make my ruine more sensible, 'tis by the greatest virtue that ever was possest: but even now I suspected your resentment would ruine me, now I find your goodness will: for justice to condemn is common, but for friendship to destroy, is a fate onely fit for the crime of Artabanes, who is so unfortu­nate, that virtue loses its nature where he is concern'd. Zephalinda ex­tremely perplext to see me in so great a trouble, told me, if by any acti­on of mine I may convert your disorder into as great a joy, assure your self Artabanes, I will force my inclination to an obeying of you, and no­thing but an impossibility shall hinder me from it; therefore I conjure you acquaint me for what great advantage you would imploy my friendship, [Page 72] in a thing so inconsistent with it. Madam (said I) my Father, who knows your merit, has so strictly enjoyn'd me to serve you, that if by any fault of mine I should decline adoring you, I must expect all that his in­dignation can inflict on me, and lose the hopes of possessing Parthenissa by his consent: your scorn may make the discontinuance of my addres­ses to you appear a kind of justice to him, and so incline him to listen to my making them to Parthenissa. You see by this how much I am therein concern'd, and by it too, how much I do respect you, for sooner than the world should say I forsook the fair Zephalinda, I had rather give it so strong a testimony of my unworthiness, as her neglect. Alas Arta­banes (she answer'd) I had rather the world should think you just by deserting me, than give it so infallible an argument of my want of judge­ment as to decline your Passion; but since your happiness depends so much upon my counterfeiting scorn, I will endeavor to build your joy by the ruine of my own, and care not what men do think of me, so you thereby obtain the happy Parthenissa. Judge Sir! if ever there were a higher generosity than this of Zephalinda's: instead of revenging an injury, she pardons it, instead of punishing an offender she obliges him, and so much to her own prejudice, that to establish her Rivals content­ment she ruines (by her confession) her own. I must confess her virtue had so great an ascendant over me, that I had almost deplor'd the hopes of my own felicity, since they were so likely to ruine those of hers. You may easily guess, I left her with as high a satisfaction of her virtue as I was troubl'd at the necessity of being ungrateful to it. As soon as I came to Parthenissa I gave her by my relation so just a cause of affection to Ze­phalinda, that from that hour she vow'd her the second place in hers. and in process of time, they contracted so firm a friendship, that though her Brother were highly concern'd in the breaking off Parthenissa's affe­ction and mine, yet she was not onely our Confident but our Counsel­lor, and discharg'd both with such secrecy and judgement, that we knew not which was most meritorious. But this friendship could hardly be greater than that which Arsaces had for Surena, which did every day so clearly manifest it self, that the Courtiers ador'd him as the rising Sun, and found the onely way to obtain any thing from the King, was to be promis'd it by his favorite, who truly (setting the imperiousness of his humour aside) which doubtless he had whilst he courted the Kings favour, he had charms hardly to be resisted: Neither could Arsaces's af­fection to the Brother be greater, than the scorns I receiv'd in publick were from the Sister, which at first she personated so well, that I was con­strain'd often to wait upon her in private, to learn whether that which we design'd for a fiction were not metamorphos'd into its contrary; but at last she acted them as a task, and so constrain'd, that her behaviour seem'd to condemn me of that unkindness which her modesty would not per­mit her words to do. But one evening I receiv'd a testimony of her friendship proportionate to that Character she had given me of it; 'Twas a little note which she convey'd into my hand, and though many were present, yet it was so artificially that 'twas impossible any could take notice of it. The words were these:

AS soon as I had done reading these few lines, I communicated them to my Princess, who did not onely much approve of the advice, but more of the gallantry of her that gave it. The same night I waited upon Zephalinda, and taking an opportunity, I made her Parthenissa's, and my own retributions, for so unimitable a friendship; but time being exceeding precious, and there being then with Zephalinda, Surena, Silla­ces, Lindadory, Parthenissa, and many others, the chiefest of the Court, I resolv'd no longer to delay that which was design'd between us, and ha­ving privately advertis'd Zephalinda of my intention, I began a discourse of the importunity of Lovers, as a Rise to effect it; The subject was so copious, that there wanted no matter of entertainment, but that we in­sisted upon most, was occasion'd by Zephalinda's saying, that she admir'd at those, who when their Mistresses declar'd they could not love them, would yet continue their loves: as if importunity could ingender Affecti­on. To which Surena, as believing himself most concern'd, reply'd: I should (Sister) have an ill opinion of that General, who designing to take a Town, would, upon its refusal to yield at the summoning, raise his Camp, and march away: 'Tis just so in this case, what our desires can­not perform, perseverance must, and since modesty and practice does al­low Women at first to deny their Servants, 'twould be a great want of discretion to take that for their disdain, which is but their Passion. Ma­dam (said I) there may be something more added in this particular, for since by daily experience we find, that a high Passion ingenders a pro­portionate Scorn, the first giving the Power, if not the Cause unto the last, why may not we as well expect that an opportunity may beget an affection, the difference being but equally great? That which you say (answer'd Zephalinda) is a clear mistake, for certainly never any Woman hated a Man for loving her, but she having some aversion to the person, he imputes it to his Flame; but to that which my Brother says, I must confess I think it a madness, where there is an affection to abandon it upon the first refusal, but sometimes Men are apt to give our bashfulness a longer being, than indeed it has, and have so good an opinion of them­selves, that they often call that which is our aversion, our modesty, and [Page 74] by making us better natur'd than we are, trouble themselves more than they should: for my part, I would deal ingeniously with my Lovers (if I had any) and tell them what is modesty; and what is aversion, that they may owe their suffering to themselves, and not to me, for I think it a Tyran­ny to make Mens Torments the witnesses of my Beauty. I must confess, Madam (I reply'd) if all your Sex would practice what you declare, we should have as much cause to admire their goodness, as their beauties, but that which deludes many, is, that some Women have hated two or three years, sometimes more, and then at last have loved those, whom they so long slighted; and though examples of this quality be very rare, yet some proving the possibility of it, every one flatters himself with a belief it may be his fate; just as in War, where though but one amongst a hundred thousand raises himself from a common Soldier to a General, yet the success of that one, does raise more expectations, than the miscarriages of so many others doe deject. Besides Madam (said Sillaces) other Wo­men, whose beauties have not charms so strong, but their Rigor may prove their Lovers cure, do often hold on their Servants by expectation, and so by Art supply the unkindness of Nature, but where so many perfections reign, as you are Mistress of, that declaration which you would have pass as an excess of goodness (and perhaps mean it so) may appear as high a mark of your power; for knowing your servants to be surely charm'd, you may well advise them to assume their liberty, and they be no more oblig'd to you for it, than when a Gally-slave is bid by his Keeper to get free, and yet is still kept fast in Chains. I should too much trespass on your patience, did I tell you all the particulars of that entertainment, I will therefore onely acquaint you, that some words were spoken, which gave me a fit opportunity to beg Zephalinda, that since she had made a decla­ration of dealing clearly with her Servants, in what related to her reso­lutions concerning them, she would give me my sentence, by acquaint­ing me what return that Passion, I so justly paid her, might expect. Tru­ly Artabanes (she answer'd with a gesture as full of disdain in appearance, as it was obliging in effect) I thought my actions would have exempted my words from that trouble, but since you will have it in as much plain­ness as reality, you must know, I cannot receive your passion, but if my saying will be a diminution of your grief, that it proceeds not from any defect in you, or from any aversion to you in particular, but out of a ge­neral aversion to Love, I may very truly profess it. Ah Madam, (I reply'd) you are cruel in thinking to be merciful, and at once load me with so much misery, that I must sink under the burthen: You should have prepar'd me by degrees for my ruine, and thereby have lessen'd it, at least of one misery, which is the suddenness and unexpectedness of it: But Madam, do not think that my discontent is of so mean a nature, that the consideration of the cause, can lessen the effect: No, fair Zephalinda, that with which you would console me, does but augment my Torments, for had you been capable of Love, I should by Zeal and Sufferings have had some expectation to have cre­ated yours, but this general hatred to the sweetest Passion, cuts off all ex­pectation, and leaves me as full of misery, as my ambition for so high a flame can merit: but Madam, may not I fear some conceal'd love is the cause of this cruelty, or that some happier, or more deserving Man, may make you alter this ruinous resolution? Neither of both (said Ze­phalinda) I attest the higher Powers, that were I to have any man, it should be Artabanes, but not having him, I vow by the domestick gods, [Page 75] that listen to my oath, never to marry any other, and I conjure you by your own quiet as well as mine, to speak to me no more of Love, nor con­ceal for me any, lest you force me to that aversion for you, which no­thing but your perseverance can render legitimate; carry that noble Flame unto some other object, whose antipathy to Love may not so blind her Judgement, as to refuse your Passion, which I shall pray may be successful, and that your Felicity may be equal to your merit; But if instead of my affection, you will receive my friendship, I do ingage my self to pay it you, and shall endeavour by the perfectness of that, to repair the deficiency of the other. Ah Madam (I reply'd) all the consolation you then give me, is, that every one that dares offer you his Heart; shall be cloath'd in my Livery: but to make my torment per­fect, my sufferings proceed from one that at the same instant in which she professes her self my friend, ruines me; yet I shall strive by my obe­dience, to manifest how ill I did deserve my misfortune, and since ma­king my self perfectly wretched, must be an argument of that Truth, I attest the self-same Powers, which even now you invok'd, never to im­portune you any more with my Passion; but by silencing or transport­ing it unto some other object, take from us both the trouble, the conti­nuance of it would create: but the high honor of your friendship I embrace with a joy proportionate to the vastness of the benefit, and will pay you mine, with a constancy, as great as you assure me your aver­sion is to love. Who could express the astonishment of Surena, at this profession? his endeavours truly were so pressing, to alter his Sisters re­solution, that it sufficiently revealed his concern in it; but all was in vain, for after those protestations, we remain'd unchangeable. This busi­ness thus handled, was, for a good while, the entertainment of the Court, and made Surena so to hasten Arsaces to appear for him, that though an unexpected accident fell out, which much contributed to the publique, declaring my self a Servant to Parthenissa, yet before I could effect it, Surena obtain'd from the King a visit to her in his favour, which did exceedingly perplex our affairs, and forc'd me to mannage my Flame with as secresie a troublesome as great; but that which I told you, did so much advance my being at liberty to profess my Passion to my Princess, was, that my Father, either out of the knowledge of the World, and consequently of the emptiness of it, or else not be­ing able to see Surena in higher Power than himself, forsook the Court, and resigning up his Estate and Offices to me, retir'd into a Solitude, where under a seeming banishment from all Earthly Fruiti­ons, he more perfectly enjoyed them, and either out of a dis-af­fection to Surena, or out of his indulgence to me, he gave me the free Election of my Mistriss, and then (as I told you) withdrew him­self from those cares, which take away the relish of all our Enjoy­ments. But Moneses could not more contemn the vanities of the Court, than Surena was in love with them, he had nothing but succeeded as he desir'd, unless it were his Passion, in which (though he neglected no opportunity, nor omitted to make use of his Masters Pow­er) his progress was so slow, that it clouded all his other pleasures; and by his daily frequentation of Parthenissa discovering new charms, it made his misfortune the more unsupportable; For my part, though I had those publique advantages of entertaining her freely, and the Kings Power and Countenance to second my addresses, yet in those happy days I receiv'd in private so many fresh assurances of my Princesses af­fection [Page 76] and constancy, that I could hardly wish my Rival a greater mi­sery than the continuance of his. In this condition I was, when Fortune began to declare an irreconcileable hatred to me, in which she has been so firm, that I admire from whence she has merited the name of Inconstant. The Province of Tabiena, one of the most considerable ones of Parthia, generally revolted, and the Rebels having, in a pitcht Battel, defeated the Kings Lieutenant, and kill'd 10000 upon the place, so exasperated Arsaces, that he rais'd an Army of 80000 Men, to vindicate this disgrace, and till it was upon its march, never would declare who should be General; but then with a high obligingness, he told me, that he had made choice of me, as well to follow his Inclination as Judgement, that I must perform Mira­cles, onely to justify the opinion he had of me, and that the next morn­ing by the dawn of day, as I valu'd his service, I was to repair unto my Command. I must confess I was surpriz'd, both at the thing, and at the suddenness of it, but since 'twas the way to serve my Prince, and to Glo­ry, I supprest all those troubles which my separation from Parthenissa be­gan to create, and having with an humility sutable to the obligation, accepted the Kings Commission, I went that evening to kiss the fair Par­thenissa's hands, and to offer up those sighs, which that sad departure so justly exacted; but not finding her within, I expected her return, and till then, I entertain'd Zianthe, my Princesses Favourite, who after some dis­course, drawing her Handkerchief, let fall a Letter out of her pocket, and perceiving it seal'd, I snatcht it up, more out of curiosity, than any other design, as soon as she saw I had it, she begg'd me with so much earnestness, and in such pressing terms to restore it, that I began to suspect it was some­thing of concernment, and finding the Superscription a Cypher onely, I broke open the Letter, thinking it had been some private Amours of hers; but alas,, soon found it was Surenas Hand, which Zianthe imagining by my amazement, she gave a great shreek, and flinging her self at my feet; with her hands held up, conjur'd me to restore, and not read it; but be­ing thrust on by my ill Fate, I kept her off, and read these words;

Oh gods! how many thousand distractions did the reading of this Let­ter involve me in! I that resented the torments, cannot describe them, at first I was pale as Guilt, and an universal trembling seiz'd upon all my Bo­dy, yet presently, the consideration of all my wrongs inflam'd me with so much fury, that had Parthenissa then come in, I had sacrific'd her to it. But at length I cry'd out, great gods! where shall Virtue inhabit, if Par­thenissa be not a fit Mansion for it? and who shall ever expect a recom­pence [Page 77] for his Fidelity, when mine is thus rewarded? then looking upon that cruel instrument of my undoing; I told her. Ha! Zianthe: how could you thus long conceal this Treachery? Sure Parthenissa's wicked­ness is contageous, else your pity (if all other motives had fail'd) would have made you disclose what the just gods could no longer conceal. The wretched Maid finding my Choler rais'd to the highest pitch, flung her self again at my feet, and with a flood of Tears told me. The conceal­ment (Sir) of your being so long betray'd, was as great a grief to me, as the knowledge of it is to you, but I could not reveal that treachery with­out being guilty of one to Parthenissa, and drawing by it a ruine on her as certain as just. My innocence shall bear me witness, how I labour'd to divert her from an action so perfidious, but when I found all was in vain, I was forced to submit to what I could not oppose, yet with a grief, which equalled the greatness of her crime; but since the gods have so evidently declared themselves in revealing a treachery so secretly carried, I think it rather a Charity than a Sin to acquaint you with that which I hope will prove your cure. After that Surena began to possess the Kings esteem, I found a beginning of a coldness in Parthenissa for you, and something of inclination for your Rival, which increast proportionably, as Arsaces favour did, and that being come unto the highest degree, this resembl'd it; in a word, I cannot compare the greatness of her passion to him more fitly, than to that she formerly paid you: but perhaps you may wonder why they should write to one another, having the opportunity and free­dom of conversation. To which I answer'd, Surena was suspicious, that all Parthenissa did profess in his favour, was but meerly to gain time, and to free her self from the Kings importunities, who never left solliciting for his Favourite; Now he knew, Letters were a proof that she could not deny, when she might her words, therefore he put her to that tryal, and besides, he shewed them to the King, as an evincement of his victory, which as he said, Arsaces would not credit, but by some such undeniable testimony. Things being come to this height, all their designes were, how to delude you, which truly they were so industrious in, that I have as often admir'd at Parthenissa's Art in dissembling, as at her treachery it self. Amongst all those Presents which Surena sent her, she places on none so much value, as on a little pocket Looking Glass, which of late you have seen her wear; and though the excellency of the Workmanship might induce her to value it, yet the esteem she places on it, proceeds from another cause, for between the Glass and the Case, in a little Draw­er, which is artificially shut with a screw, there is her Lovers Picture; and, as if all things had contributed to undelude you, yesternight some­thing being amiss in it, she left it off to be mended. Zianthe without straying to know whether I had a mind to see it, went and fetcht it, to shew the truth of what she had alledged. The Glass I very well remem­ber'd, having seen Parthenissa lately wear it, and set even a doting value on it; but the rage of being so egregiously deluded, stifl'd those resent­ments my fury inspir'd, which silence Zianthe attributing to my attenti­on, she thus continued her discourse. I have, Sir, given you a clear Nar­rative of my Mistresses Infidelity, which indeed, is so excessive great, that I hope you will think it a sufficient happiness to have mist her, and your Rival sufficiently punisht in obtaining her; in my opinion, the crime is so odious, that with the first opportunity I will abandon her service, and think it more contentment to have but a bare subsistance, where in­nocence is cherisht, than to possess all the plenties of the Court, where [Page 78]Vice has so much dominion: all that I have to beg of you is, that you will make the best profit of this discovery, without revealing the Author of it, for it can be no advantage to you, and will be an unavoidable ruine unto me. Zianthe thus ended her discourse, and filld' me with so much fury, that without saying one word, I left her: but as I was going out, I met a Servant of Surena's, who mistaking me for one of Parthenissa's meni­al ones, desir'd me to tell Zianthe, that her Princess lay that night at Su­rena's with Zephalinda, and that he was come to wait on her thither. This additional proof of her inconstancy, made me say to my self: Is she then not onely contented to be wicked, but to glory in't? and has she no sooner led me into misery, than she forsakes and insults over me? but yet (I continu'd) why do I blame this action, for since she has stain'd her Beauty with infidelity, 'tis an obligation to me not to hide it. Then, with­out so much as answering Surena's servant, I went to my Lodging, but in such a posture, that had I met with any, betwixt that place where I recei­ved so fatal a poison, and my Chamber, my actions had discover'd my condition. Being come home, I flung my self into my Bed, and by a thousand extravagancies, exprest the miseries I groan'd under; at first I re­solv'd to kill my self, having so much out-lived my hopes, but the hor­ror of so barbarous a crime, and to leave the world without revenge, retain'd me. Then casting up my Eyes to Heaven, my Tears invok'd that Justice my rage hinder'd my words from demanding. At length I cry'd out, Great gods! Why do you tempt frail Man, so justly to destroy himself, and yet make it a sin to do so? Or why is life esteem'd a blessing, when without it we could not suffer misery? Then pausing a while, and after starting up, I continu'd; Ah! no, were to destroy my self no sin, I would not do it: First, those that have injur'd me, shall dye, and then the triumph of my revenge will be pleasing: Yet Parthenissa must not fall, her Sex preserves her; but to kill her Lover, will be a more sensible grief to her, and consequently, a more pleasing joy to me. But couldst thou, (I continu'd) Artabanes, look upon her with any satisfaction, were her miseries proportionate to her crimes? O no, those charms would melt thy anger into pity, rather kill thy Rival nobly, and shew by his de­struction, how much she has mis-chosen; then fly into some Desart, where thou shalt never hear again th' enchanting name of Parthenissa; and in the horror of some silent Grove, pine away thy life as a Pennance, for having believ'd any of her sex, could prove constant.

My distractions were so high, that it was day, e'r I could elect any re­solution, yet in the end I assum'd this last, as finding it fittest for my re­sentment and despair, and immediately calling Simander, I commanded him with secresie, and without dispute, to carry a Paper I gave him to Su­rena, and tell him, I expected him in the Eastern Meddow, near the sa­cred Grove.

The Challenge contain'd these words.

Simander immediately suspected what it was, but not imagining the cause, began to make some question, for which I took him up so short, that I put a silence to all his doubts, and sent him away to perform what I had commanded; then dressing my self, I took one of my best Horses (for 'tis the custom in Parthia, for all Men of quality to fight on Horse­back) and went to the place appointed, where I had not long been, but Simander came, and acquainted me that Surena would be with me instantly. These words were hardly deliver'd; when I might perceive him that sent them, onely attended by one of his Servants. I had not the pa­tience to delay my revenge by any expostulation, but drawing my sword, and galloping up to him, bade him defend himself. The first encounter, he gave me a slight hurt upon the Bridle-hand, and I him in his right Arm, and after a few passages for the gaining of the Crupper, I won his, and ran my Sword through him up to the Hilt, with which he fell, and go­ing to repeat my thrust, the remembrance of his excellent Sister, stopt my hand, and made me tell him, That which I have done, though it be too little for my resentments, yet it is too much for Zephalinda's Brother, for which Relation I give thee thy life. If (reply'd Surena) thou payst Zephalinda any affection, evince it in taking that little I have left, she is so generous, she had rather hear I am dead than live by my Enemies Mercy, therefore I conjure thee by those wrongs thou sayst I have done thee, and by thy affection to my Sister, finish what thy good fortune has so far advanc'd, and by one wound more, end those torments, my being vanquisht will throw upon me, and secure thy love to Parthenissa, which whilst I live, will be unsafe. Why (said I) dost thou by that name, tempt my fury, and revive an anger, whose justice is declar'd in thy defeat; fare­well, for I dare not trust my self with my resentments. Ending these words, I turn'd to Surena's Servant, and bade him have a care of his Master. Then going to my own, I told him, come Simander, since death refuses to ease my misery, I will seek some other cure, and commanding him to follow, I gallopt away whether my Fortune would conduct me, and continu'd moving, till towards night, where coming into a Grove, whose unfrequent­edness was fit for my melancholly, as well as safety (for I was loath Par­thenissa should satisfy her Eyes with my Execution) I lighted off my Horse, and giving him to Simander, I flung my self upon the Grass, and there be­gan to consider the sad condition I was in, which was so much the more so, by how much my happiness had been so lately great. Parthenissa's incon­stancy appear'd so odious, that I could not have the patience to think on her, nor it. But that which caus'd indeed, my real grief, was, the unwor­thy return my sad condition forc'd me to make the fair Zephalinda, who for all her gallantry and friendship, had no other payment but the neg­lect of her Affection, and the murther of her Brother. These thoughts were more insupportable than my own misfortunes, and that which brought an accession to mine, was, that my actions of Ingratitude would be as apparent, as my sorrows for them would be the contrary. After a thousand reflections of this quality, I resolv'd at last to write to her, and finding no Ink more proper for the occasion than some Bloud which ran from a slight hurt, I made use of it, and writ these few words.

I writ another Letter to Arsaces, wherein I told him, that I was almost as much troubl'd to draw my sword against his Favourite, as at the cause of it; that I had injur'd his Laws, to avoid doing the like unto his Judge­ment, which might have receiv'd some blemish by his electing one to re­venge a publique affront that wanted courage to resent a private one of the highest nature; that though by this action I had render'd my self unca­pable of serving him, yet by declining it, I had made my self unworthy of that honour; so that of two crimes, I elected but the least. And since the gods by Surena's defeat, declar'd him guilty, I could not believe that he which bore their Image, would be of a different opinion. I folded these two Letters in a third, to my generous friend, the Prince Sillaces, to whose care I commended Lindadory, and all things else I had any concern for, and from whom I begg'd a thousand pardons, for not having acquainted him at first with the cause of those miseries, which forc'd me to a voluntary, and eternal banishment. Whilst our Horses were taking that refreshment which their hard travel requir'd, I was disputing what course to elect, and after many Proposals, I resolv'd to pass through Mesopotamia and Syria, and so thence by Sea for Italy, and in the darkest horrors of those Moun­tains, which separates that Countrey from the Gauls, spend those sad days allotted to miserable life. That which made me fix upon this place above any other, was, that the horridness of the Alpes would be more sutable to my melancholly than any other, and by being in the heart of the Roman Empire, I knew the innate hatred of the Parthians to that people, would never permit those which should search after me, to doubt of my residence, or if they did, the danger of coming into an Enemies Countrey, might deter them from following me.

Here Artabanes putting a stop to his Narration, addrest himself to Callimachus, and told him, I have, Sir, to obey your commands, forc'd my inclination to relate unto you, a part of my unfortunate Life, least you might have fail'd in the knowledge of those particulars, which perhaps Simander was not perfectly acquainted with: But now, what is remaining he has been an Actor, or a Sufferer in, and consequently, will omit, no­thing that is worthy your knowledge; I shall therefore beg you (if you are not already tir'd with the hearing of my misfortunes) permit Siman­der, to put an end unto their Story, and give me leave to absent my self [Page 81] from a relation that will awaken despair, which of it self is but too apt to torment me. The good Callimachus having by a thousand expressions, excus'd the rudeness of his curiosity, told him, Generous Artabanes, I have already (I fear) so far transgress'd, that I cannot expect a pardon from a less goodness than yours, and therefore will not persevere in a crime which may make you as justly my enemy, as Fortune is unjustly yours. Artabanes having made Callimachus a return suitable to his civi­lity, commanded his faithful Simander (who was present at the latter part of his relation) to satisfy his engagement, and then retir'd into a So­litude, to entertain his Melancholly, which was too just not to be great. Artabanes was no sooner gone, than Callimachus invited his faithful Si­mander to obey his generous Prince, which he did, by continuing his Adventures in these words,

AFter my unfortunate Master had assum'd a resolution so suitable to his despair, and that all those reasons my affection furnisht me with, could no way alter it, I thought it my duty as much as 'twas my inclination, to bear a share with him in all his miseries, and justify by my sufferings how ambitious I was to deserve a favour which I had no title to, but his having conferr'd it on me; and though by many per­swasions, and commands, he disswaded me from tying my Fortunes upon one to whom (he said) the gods had so much declar'd themselves Enemies, yet I was as firm in my resolution of waiting on him, as he was in his of abandoning the World. By this time our Horses having taken that rest which we thought fitting, we began to continue our journey, the Moon affording us her Light, and the first Village we came unto, we waken'd some Peasants, where my Prince having seal'd his Packet, en­gag'd one of them (by giving him a good reward) to carry it the next day to the Court, and present it to the generous Sillaces. This being done, we continued our voyage, but because I have so many essential things to relate, I will not load your patience by repeating all those accidents which happen'd in our crossing of Syria, and Mesopotamia, nor till our coming to Antioch, since without any considerable adventures, we at last safely arrived there; onely I may not omit to inform you, that in twenty days travel, I never heard Artabanes repine at Parthemissa's cru­elty, either that his wrongs had extinguisht his Love, or the greatness of his resentments hinder'd the expressions of them; but I am the more inclin'd to believe the latter, since his Sighs and Tears (his inseparable companions) acknowledged some internal grief, produc'd them; and truly he was thereby so chang'd, that had not his griefs been an unde­niable proof of him that utter'd them, I should have suspected I had chang'd my Master. But as if all things had contributed to hasten my Prince unto his solitude, we met a Ship at Antioch, ready to weigh An­chor for Cyprus, where she was to unload her Merchandize in a Man of War, that was directly bound for Ostia, which is a small Harbor the Ti­ber makes, when it falls into the Mediterranean sea. This conveniency we joyfully embrac'd, and the Wind blowing fair at East, we were full of expectation in few days to arrive safely in that famous Island where the Queen of Love had chosen her earthly Residence. We were not many Leagues from our desired Harbor, when those upon the Main-top that were looking for Land, cry'd out, a Sail, a Sail; the Master of our Ship went instantly up to discover the truth of this Alarm, and had not been long there, but clapping his hands upon his Breast, he said with [Page 82] great Passion we are all undone, 'tis Menas, This was that Menas, Pompey the Great took at Sea, when he commanded the Roman Fleet, and ask­ing him how he durst commit so high sins, as to kill those, and take a­way their Goods, which never did him any wrong, was thus answer'd: If (said he) my Actions are Crimes, why then dost thou practise them? but because thou rob'st securely with a whole Fleet, thou givest thy self the name of a Conqueror, and because I rob with more hazard, and but with one single Gally, thou call'st me a Pirate, when there is no diffe­rence between our performances, but that which Force and Numbers create. This bold, (and perhaps true) reply so operated on the ge­nerous Pompey, that he gave Menas his life, for which he did him such signal services, that at last he gave him too his liberty; but being ac­customed from his Youth, to that barbarous profession, he could not decline it, and in a short while after fell to a relapse. He was indeed so fa­mous in all those Seas, that oftentimes his name presented him with Victo­ry: and truly I believe we should have felt, as well as heard that Truth, had not Artabanes, (perceiving our fears) by a generous exhortation, in­vited us to a defence. For, if (said he) your Enemies are generous, your Gallantry, if you be vanquisht, will make your usage so: if they are not, your resistance may purchase your safety, at least, 'tis more like Men to owe our sufferings to our misfortunes than our selves. To be brief, his ra­vishing Eloquence furnisht him with such powerful Arguments, that those timerous Spirits, which even now were ready co yield without disputing the Victory, were now so alter'd, that they breath'd nothing but the combat. We were in all, (Passengers and Seamen) about an hundred, and my Prince taking upon himself the whole charge, divided his Men into two Squadrons, the one he took to himself, the other he gave me the honour to command. Then, lest those new-rais'd courages should cool, he commanded the Pilot to tack about, and resolv'd to save Me­nas the labour of overtaking him, who was chasing us with Oars and Sails. 'Twas then I perceiv'd in my generous Prince's Face, a dissipa­tion of those Clouds, his Miseries had there created, and in their place, a Countenance so Martial, and so Charming, that 'twas as impossible for his Enemies not to fear, as for his Friends not to admire him. By this time the Pirates were so close come up, that Artabanes commanded the Seamen to grapple Menas's Gally, and not giving him leave to Assault us, he leapt into the thickest of the Enemies, and with his Sword made the Pass easy for those that follow'd him. Our Adversaries, who were not accustomed to resistance, found this Action as strange, as we knew it to be generous; and I believe their amazement something contributed to our seeming Victory, but when those that fled the fury of my Prince's Arms, had acquainted Menas, that unless he appear'd, and acted, all would be lost; that old Pirate, who at first thinking us unworthy his Sword, had commanded one of his Lieutenants to take us, finding our resistance need­ed all his Power, instantly arm'd himself, and with a select number of Sol­diers, which he always reserv'd for some such desperate exigency, came out upon the Decks, where by the greatness of his loss, judging at the greatness of his danger, he call'd up that Courage, which had made him so justly famous, and therewith renew'd the Fight with such resolution, that many of our Men, being terrified with the Fury of his blows, began to shrink, and at last, to retire unto their own Ship; this cowardice heightned our Enemies, which Artabanes easily perceiv'd, and observing, the turn proceeded onely from the Valour of Menas, [Page 83] he made a lane through all those that oppos'd his doing so, and at last, joyning with the old Pirate, with one blow, he struck him at his Feet, and finding by the rare temper of his Helmet, that his fall proceeded from being stunn'd, not kill'd, he was searching the defects of his Armor, to finish his Victory: which whilst he was doing, one of the Pyrats coming behind him, had lift up his Sword to kill my generous Prince, but as the gods would have it, I came to his rescue and with one blow cut that sacrilegious Arm off, and with a thrust, ended his life. The noise which the Pirate I had kill'd made in falling, saved Menas's life, for my Prince turning about, to learn from whence that death proceeded, some of the Enemies (taking the opportunity) dragg'd their Captain into the Stern-Cabbin. But to be brief, our companions, whose Courages (by the sight of so much Blood) were quite drown'd, abandon'd the generous Artabanes, who being too weak of himself, having onely so unworthy a Second as Simander, to resist such numbers as came fresh upon him, receiv'd so many wounds, that his strength began to fail him, but yet upon his knees, he so generously disputed the Victory, that Fortune by it appear'd sufficiently blind, for could she have seen his vertue, she could not but have rewarded it, but at length he lost such a Sea of Blood, that he could make no more re­sistance, and crying out, Ah Death! thou art merciful, and curest the wounds which Parthenissa gave, He fell, (as I then thought) eternally. Oh gods! what did not my rage then make me utter? I found my grief so much, that bestriding my generous Princes Body, I cry'd out, finish, finish, ye barbarous Tyrants your cruelty, and bend all your Swords [...]a­gainst my Breast, for since you have by Numbers, not Valour, destroy­ed the perfectest of Men, I will no longer survive that loss; and indeed, their desire of Blood so well seconded my desire of losing all mine, that having received as many wounds, as I was confident would not give me the misfortune of out-living my Prince, I flung my self on his pale Body and having a thousand times embrac't him, and kist his hands and feet, I there fainted, acting those last expressions of my Fidelity. In the mean while, Menas by the care of his Soldiers, being come again to himself, de­manded what was the issue of the fight, and what was become of him, whose Valour he had, so much to his prejudice, resented? they answer­ed him, that all but the valiant Enemy he enquir'd after, and one more, had long since yielded themselves to mercy, but he, as if his forces had been increased by his Companions fears, was yet nobly disputing his life, which was so weakn'd by many wounds, that if he were not yet dead, the time of his fall could not be long. Menas, whose Nature had some light of generosity, though clouded by his Profession, and the daily exam­ples of cruelty, was so taken with Artabanes's courage, that causing him­self to be carried upon the Deck, did there intend to preserve him, if it were in his power. I knew not whether the belief of our being kill'd, hin­der'd our Conquerors from doing us any further harm, or whether my ex­pressions and actions to my Prince, did suspend for a while the cruelty of those Monsters, but whatsoever was the cause, they wounded us no more after we were fallen, and Menas coming when the Pirats were beginning to strip us, forbad it, and commanding his Chyrurgeons to employ all their skill in our recovery, or if it were past their Art, then he ordered Galippus his Lieutenant, to give us burial, as if himself had been in our condition. And because his care should equal our need of it, he caus'd us to be brought into his own Cabbin, where our wounds being searcht, [Page 84] the Chirurgeons assur'd him, my Master had none that were mortal, and that onely the loss of Blood had reduc'd him to that extremity; For what concern'd me, they told him, I was in much more danger, but if they could draw out the head of a Javelin that struck in my back, there might be some hope of my recovery. In the mean time, by strong Cordials we came to our selves, but my Prince, long before me, and to my great glory (as those that waited on us, told me) the first thing he said, was, Ah poor Siman­der. For my part, as soon as I found my wounds drest, and remember'd with what design I receiv'd them, I tore off all my Plaisters, and calling those that were by me, a thousand names for their care, I vow'd by all the gods I would no longer live. Then I begg'd them with Tears, to bring me to my Masters Body, and permit me to expire upon it. They seem'd to be very glad, that my despair proceeded from a cause they could so easily re­move, and therefore to console me, they vow'd my Master was alive, and in the same Cabbin; but I could not credit so great a happiness, till some of them acquainted him with my diffidence, which made him force himself to say, yes Simander, I live, Fortune is yet too much my Enemy, to end my miseries. Ah Sir, (I reply'd, with excessive raptures of joy) your Ver­tue will at last conquer her. 'T is a strange thing, how after the knowledge of my Prince's being alive, I willingly endur'd all those hideous pains, which conduc'd to my recovery, courting my Chirurgeons to hasten my cure, though by the increase of my torment, that I might be quickly well, to be near my Prince, and to pay him that service I have ever vow'd him. During the space of a quarter of a year, whilst our wounds were heal­ing, we receiv'd as many civilities from Menas, as we could have expected from our Friends, but we were no sooner perfectly recover'd, than he com­manded my Prince to be brought unto him, (and with a countenance (as barbarous as his Profession) told him, I have sent for thee, to know what madness 'twas invited thee to make a resistance, where hope, (as flattering as 'tis) could not afford thee a probability of success? To which my Prince reply'd, with an assuredness more suitable to his mind than his con­dition; I know not why thou shouldst think it strange, that the desire of preserving my liberty, should not be as powerful with me, as that of de­priving me of it, or of a little gain was with thee; but when my life was as great a blessing to me, as now it is the contrary, I never knew why Death was not a better election than Chains. Yet me thinks (said Menas) thou shouldst not prefer Death before Captivity, since the former cuts off all expectation, and the latter allows thee some. The first (reply'd Arta­banes) as it cuts off all hope, so it cuts off all shame and suffering; and the latter, whilst it leaves us onely expectations of good, makes us resent all evil: but if there be any Spirits so low as to make such a choice, I wish it may be their fortune. How dar'st thou (said the old Pirat) so far provoke me, when thou knowest thy life is in my hands? because (reply'd Artabanes' tis in thy hands. But why (continued Menas) didst thou tye thy self so ob­stinately to me, rather than any other, when thou knewest, that by it thou gavest him the Will that had the Power to punish thee? I found thee (said my Prince) the worthiest of my Sword, and an action is gallant, 'tis not my custom to consult with Fear. Artabanes had no sooner spoken these words, than Menas imbrac't him, and cry'd out, O the most generous amongst Men! if Pompey the Great were not living, thou deservest thy liberty: but to be his, is more glorious than freedom, and 'tis to that Honor I design thee. After a million of barbarous Expressions of the highest esteem he had of my Masters generosity, he declar'd, he should be his companion [Page 85] till his arrival at Ostia (which was the place we had at first design'd, though for a different intention) where in few days after we came, and there Menas elected fourscore of his best slaves (the most of the [...] Gentlemen) amongst which my Prince and I were two) and having tied to every of them a little Chain of Gold as an evincement of servitude; he sent us ashore under the conduct of Gallippus a Silesian, in whom he put his greatest confidence, and who was ordered to present us to Pompey. The next day after our landing, we came to Rome, and saw that glorious Town proud with the spoils of all the World, and some of those great Men who from private Citizens rais'd themselves by their virtue to give Laws to mighty Kings, and have in time added more Crowns to the Empire of Rome than there are almost inhabitants within her Walls. But we soon learn'd that Pompey the great had but lately under­taken the voyage of Asia, to receive Lucullus's Command and Army, who was sent for back by the Senate, being, after all his Victories, become a triumph to his Soldiers. Yet though Pompey had left Rome, he was not gone out of Italy, but was necessitated to remain at Capua, for some dis­patches were not yet perfected. This made Gallippus send a messenger to Menas for his orders, and us continue for some time longer in Rome than otherwise we should have done. I cannot here omit a very remar­kable accident that besel my Prince, who as he slept, had a Snake which came and inviron'd his Temples, in the form of a Lawrel, which a slave possest with Bacchus's spirit of Divination observing, cry'd out, that it was an infallible sign of his being victorious and successful in the Wars. By this Menas had sent directions for us to go by Land to Capua, where Pompey then was, and where at last we arriv'd, and were by Gallippus pre­sented to him, just as he was going to take ship for Asia. This great Man (when he saw Artabanes) fixt his eyes on him, and calling some of his fa­miliar Friends, told them, Either all the rules of Physiognomy are false, or that slave (pointing at my Prince) is not what his present habit speaks him, but possesses a mind that deserves as good fortune as that he is now in his ill. Sir (reply'd Gallippus) his looks cannot promise more gallan­try than his actions will make good; and had not Menas esteem'd it a higher hap-piness for him to be your Slave than to be free, he had long since restor'd him to that liberty his misfortune not his want of courage made him lose: Thereupon Gallippus told him all the story how my generons Master was ta­ken Prisoner, which when Pompey had heard, he reply'd, The gods forbid, that because your Captain has a better opinion of me than I merit, that therefore this Prisoner should undergo a misery which by your own confes­sion he does not but upon that score. Thereupon he commanded Gallippus to set my Prince and me free, and to tell Menas, that furnishing him with an occasion to oblige a gallant Man, was a greater present than all those other slaves he bestowed on him. Gallippus who had contracted a high opinion for my Masters virtue, was going with a great satisfaction to observe Pompey's directions, when Artabanes's ill fate (which has never been tir'd with affli­cting him) made Lentulus Batiatus (who was extremely taken with my Prince) so earnestly to beg him of Pompey, that at last (though with much reluctancy) he revok'd his promise, and not onely granted Batiatus's re­quest, but also gave him all those other slaves which Menas had presen­ted him. This Batiatus was the chiefest Citizen in Capua, and one who Pompey durst not disoblige, being of his Council in that great design of making himself Emperor of the World, whose foundation was then laid, but after was destroy'd by the happier fortune of Iulius Caesar, who pos­sest [Page 86] what this did but imagine. Batiatus having waited upon Pompey out of Capua, was no sooner return'd then calling for my Prince, he ask'd him, his Name and Countrey. Artabanes, whose hatred for him was as great as just, told him, with an accent which exprest his resentment, That be­ing a slave, he had neither Name nor Countrey. Which reply so incens'd the barbarous Batiatus, that he commanded him instantly to be put into Chains, and kept with his other common Slaves. Great gods! when I saw those hands loaden with Irons, which if virtue had been a title to Empire should have sway'd the Scepters of the World; What did not my fury suggest in me? I curst a million of times Parthenissa's incon­stancy, that had cast my dear Master into miseries almost as great as his virtue, and condemned with many imprecations the weakness of Pompey's, which the desire of an unworthy Citizen could soon destroy: at last I was resolv'd to acquaint our Tyrant with my Princes quality and birth, and by the assurance of an excessive Ransom, free him from that Captivity his unjust Fate had flung him into. But then the considerati­on of those sacred Oaths Artabanes had extorted from me never to reveal that secret but by his consent, supprest my resolution, and made me take up that of endeavouring to perswade him to it himself, or else to give me his permission for it. Therefore taking my opportunity, I begg'd him with a stream of Tears, that he would not by any obstinate silence un­dergo so low a destiny, but by acquainting Batiatus with his quality, procure a civil usage till his Ransom came: That then he would return into Parthia, there having obtain'd a pardon for Surena's death, evince to Parthenissa, by a carriage void of all trouble, how easily he could di­vest himself of his Passion, when she could throw off her Constancy; that it was her virtue not her beauty onely he ador'd: and since she could decline the first, he could as easily the latter. Hold thy peace Si­mander (said my Prince, interrupting me) do not add unto my miseries by thy impious discourse of Parthenissa, she is yet the highest thing in my esteem; for I am upon better consideration apter to believe 'twas some defects she found in me than any which were in her, that made her re­call the blessed joy of her affection; and so that which thou termest in­constancy, may be her Justice. No, no, Simander (he continu'd) since the gods have profest themselves so much my adversaries, tie not thy for­tune unto the most wretched of men: I have some Jewels that scapt the Pirates, take them and buy thy freedom, then return into thy Coun­trey; where I shall pray thou may'st enjoy a felicity equal to thy virtue; and let me alone to wrestle with my misfortunes; for I had far rather pe­rish in this miserable Prison, and under the weight of these Chains, than see Parthenissa scorn my Flame, or by her embraces recompence any others. By this thou may'st in some sort guess at the greatness of my torments, when slavery is a comparative happiness. My Prince had no sooner done speaking than flinging my self at his feet, I told him, Oh Sir! Have all my miseries not yet obtain'd your leave to bear a share in your misfortunes? Can you speak to me of felicity when you are loaden with Irons? Alas, What fault have I committed, that you should esteem me worthy the mi­sery of liberty? I attest the gods, that the sence of your torments create the greatest I endure, and that I can drown my own by the consideration of yours; whose liberty I would joyfully purchase by the loss of my own eternally. Therefore, Sir, (I continu'd, embracing of his knees) I con­jure you by your virtue, and those services which I hope I shall live to pay you, and by that Parthenissa, whom you do yet so highly reve­rence, [Page 87] do not banish me from the glory of suffering with you, nor have so low an opinion of my fidelity, as to think any thing but death shall separate me from you. To which Artabanes reply'd, That his knowledge of my affection for him, and not his diffidence of it, made him press me to return into Parthia, but since I assur'd him, to be near his person, was a higher satisfaction, he granted my request, though it were to the aug­mentation of his misery, which he profest to me was much increast by the share I had in it. I had scarce kist his hands as an acknowledgement of his favour, and my joy, but Batiatus came in, who commanded his Chains to be taken off, that he might be the fitter for that employment to which, next morning, he design'd him; then he selected some twenty of the ablest Slaves, who, together with Artabanes, were set apart for Gladiators, and then went away. The Gladiators (as the Romans call them) are certain Captives who are kept to fight at sharp, one against an­other in Amphitheaters, for their Masters, or the Peoples pastime, which sort of Combats, always ends at least with the loss of much Bloud, and oftentimes with the lives of the Actors. As soon as my Prince learn'd by some of the other Slaves what he was destin'd to, he curst a hundred times his ignorance of the Roman Customs that had sav'd Batiatus's life; for cer­tainly, had he known the cause why his Chains were taken off, he had em­ployed them to kill the Commander of it. But after having walked two or three turns, with looks and actions, expressing his just resentments, he at last desir'd his fellow-prisoners silence and attention; which being easily obtain'd, he spoke to them much to this purpose; Friends and Com­panions in misery, That Fortune has made us Slaves is her fault, that we should continue so, will be ours, since a quiet submission to her cruelty tacitely acknowledges we deserve it, and makes that which is an effect of her blindess, appear a confession of her justice. You have assur'd me often, that you are all Gentlemen, that Title obliges you sooner to wear death's Livery than Batiatus's; let us therefore, by some gallant at­tempt, shew how worthy we were of Liberty, or by dying hand­somely, how unworthy we are of Chains: Death is the worst can befal us, yet it is a comparative happiness to our present condition: If the gods do not favour our endeavours, but take from us all those ways that lead to freedom, they do thereby invite us to kill our selves; which to perform, is not to sin, but to obey them. To move us to this, you see to what the cruel Batiatus designs us, let us therefore resolve to mor­row, when we are upon the Theatre Arm'd, to make use of our Swords to a contrary action to that, for which they were given us; and since they delight in Bloud, let us make them surfet of it, by employing our lives which they destin'd for their pleasure, unto their punishment: This is the way, if we cannot reach our liberty, yet at least to reach revenge, which will be as pleasing as the Irons we now wear are insupportable. My Prince had no sooner done speaking, than, Canitius, (one of the chief­est amongst the Slaves) reply'd, That he was sorry such powerful in­ducements were laid down to invite them to that action, since their un­dertaking of it now, would rather appear to proceed from their judge­ment, than their inclinations: That he so well understood the hearts of his companions, he durst engage himself they would every one of them elect Death before Slavery, but that he was of opinion, they might obtain their liberty by a less hazardous way, than what was then propound­ed; for every day (said he) the Gladiators are to fight, 'tis the custom to feed them very early, that they may digest their Meat before the [Page 88] combat, and be the better able to perform it. This being most certain, my advice is, when our keepers to morrow come in to feed us, we seize upon their Swords, and kill them, lest they should make any noise; then with their Keyes we may open the doors to our liberty, and per­haps (being early) the Streets may be so empty of people, that with lit­tle resistance we may get out of the Town, and recover the Mountains of Pettely, where it will be difficult, if not impossible to take us. This motion was highly relisht by all the company, and the onely thing my Prince dislik'd in it was, that Batiatus would scape unpunisht, but the rest consenting, he saw 'twas in vain to oppose it. You may easily ima­gine we were not a little impatient till the break of day, which no sooner appear'd than our Keepers (which were four in number) came into our Prison, where whilst they were distributing of victuals and blows toge­ther (for Cruelty is a badge inseparable from their Office) Artabanes, Ca­nitius, one Castus, and I, drew out their Swords, and sheath'd them in their own bodies, with such expedition, that they had their fate before they could fear it: Then taking their Keyes, we open'd the doors of the Pri­son, and coming into the great Court of Batiatus's house (which we were necessitated to pass thorow to get into the Street) we might perceve him (as the gods would have it, who always punish cruelty) attended one­ly by a couple of his menial Servants, and (as we conjectur'd) coming to visit us; his amazement was so great when he saw us all at liberty, that he had not power to fly, which gave Castus sufficient time to take away his life, but his Servants scapt, and by their cryes drew many people in­to the Streets, most of them in their shirts, for it was very early: Those of the Capuans that had Arms, perceiving we had but four Swords, fell upon us very resolutely; and (doubtless) had cut us off had we not reco­vered a narrow Lane, where my Prince, Canitius, Castus, and I (who were those onely that had Arms) making good the entrance of it, gave our Companions time to break into a Cooks-shop that was behind us; where having fitted themselves, some with spits, others with long knives, and such kind of Weapons, observing how our Enemies increast, and that delay would bring a certain ruine, we charg'd them so furiously that we made way through all those that oppos'd us, and by the death of some 30 or 40, ecover'd that Gate of the Town which leads to the Mountains of Pettely just as some of the Inhabitants were going to shut it, who as soon as they perceiv'd us, fled and left us a free passage, the Capuans not daring then to pursue us any further. In this Retreat, my Prince and Ca­nitius brought up the Rear, Castus and I led our Companions; and though we were four wounded, yet it was so favourably, that it hin­der'd not our march. We were not sixteen furlongs out of Cap [...]a (which according to the Roman account makes two Miles) when we overtook some Horses loaden with Weapons for Fencers, going to Salapia, those Horse and Arms we seiz'd on, (but did the owners no harm) and had scarcely fitted our selves with them, when we might perceive 300 Capuaus, that follow'd us with an eagerness that spoke their intentions. The inequa­lity of our numbers did somewhat startle our Companions at the first, but my generous Prince so animated them, that he made them not onely resolve to fight, but save the Capuans the labor of half their march; the Enemy perceiving our intentions, receiv'd our charge with much resolution, but Artabanes gave it with more, and did act in that occasion things so wor­thy himself, that at last the Capuans were routed, and most of them kill'd, for we follow'd the execution to their very Gates, which we found [Page 89] so ill guarded (an universal fear having seiz'd upon all the Inhabitants) that had our numbers been proportionable to our advantage, we might have possest that great City. But we were satisfi'd with our success, and at night retir'd our selves to a place of very strong scituation, which Ca­stus shew'd us, who, by good fortune was perfectly acquainted with that Countrey. This place I speak of was a Hill of a great height, in the middle of a Plain, about eight Furlongs circumference, and inaccessible every way but one, by which also there could not come above five a-brest; The next morning we met together to chose our selves a Captain, know­ing a body how little soever without a head is a Monster. My Prince was elected, whose valor and conduct in the late Fight gave him that place without either opposition or envy, to whom we all swore obedi­ence till we might get out of Italy, and so return to our own Countreys, for we were of several Nations, though the most of any one were Thra­cians. Then our new Soldiers desiring to know their Captains Country and Name, came and begg'd of him the knowledge of both, but my Prince, who would not acquaint them with either, lest it might in time discover him, desir'd their excuse, telling them he was ty'd to a concealment of both by some considerations: The Thracians then; who I told you were the most in number of any one Country, cry'd out, that they would thenceforwards call him Spartacus, which in their Language signifies Captain or General, and all the rest willingly con­sented to it, which I shall beg you, (said Simander to Callimachus) to take notice of, for I shall for a while call my generous Master no more but by that name, since 'twas under it he purchas'd so great a proportion of Glory, that it cannot have an end till the World have. O gods! (said Calli­machus to Simander) Is it then Artabanes, that under the name of Spar­tacus, did from so weak a beginning shake the Roman Empire worse than ever Hannibal did? And who so fill'd the World with his generous Acti­ons, that not to have heard of him is as great wonder as any he perform'd? This (reply'd Simander) is that same, Spartacus, who coming into Italy a Slave, loaded with Chains and Miseries, by his virtue and courage had certainly subjected the greatest Empire of the World, if at lest his Souldi­ers had been of that temper which Hanniballs were; for Spartacus knew as well how to make use of a Victory as to win it, if that great general had done the like, and had follow'd success as much as success did him, he had made the Carthaginians Lords of all the World. One great advantage Hannibal had, which was, though his Army were compos'd of several Nati­ons, yet they never mutiny'd, but with as much satisfaction as duty observ'd his orders. If my generous Master had enjoy'd that blessing, the Par­thians had now held that Empire in possession, which the Carthaginians only had in expectation, as you shall hear by the sequel of my discourse. Which said Callimachus, I must interrupt, to beg you to resolve me two doubts, the first is, Why the Romans gave out that Spartacus was a Thracian? and the second, Why they said he was kill'd in that famous Battel of the Trenches, which he fought against Marcus Crassus? To satisfie your first doubt (reply'd Simander) I must acquaint you that those Thracians which gave him the name of Spartacus, when they saw his glorious Victories, and that he would not then discover where he was born, resolv'd since he took his name out of their Language to give him his original from their Countrey, which my Prince did not contradict for those reasons I formerly specifi'd, so that the Romans when they said he was a Thra­cian, gave out but that which they credited themselves. To your se­cond [Page 90] cond doubt, which concerns his supposed death, I shall beg your pati­ence but a little, that I may tell it you in its due order; for I perceive by your questions you are already acquainted with so much of my Prince's adventures, that it will very much shorten the Relation of them. I must confess (reply'd Callimachus) though my profession and inclination have made me these few years live a recluse life, and give me no great curio­sity to enquire after news, yet your generous Princes actions have reach'd my ears, but in so confus'd a way, that you will do me a singular favour to ac­quaint me with all the particulars, being so enamour'd of his virtue, that I cannot but be highly interested in any thing that relates unto a further knowledge of it: then begging Simanders excuse for having desir'd to an­ticipate his Relation, which he besought him to receive as an argument of his great concernment in Artabanes's safety, by his silence invited him to continue his discourse, which Simander did in these words: I left off where Artabanes under the name of Spartacus was chosen Captain by his compa­nions, which title oblig'd him to provide for all their fafeties: his first cares were, to fortifie our Fort, (which he did by making many Traver­ses upon the Avenues) and to procure a Magaxine of Victuals, which at last he accomplisht; but with much difficulty, being constrained to fight for every thing he brought in. The Capuans too were taking order for their safeties; and having found by their first essay, that 'twas not an easie thing to conquer us in the Field, but far more hardly to be effected in the strong Fort we were in, having furnisht it with all necessaries for three Months, dispatcht away some of their Citizens to Rome, to acquaint the Senate with what was past, and to implore their aid for the suppressing of their Bondmen (for so they always term'd us.) The Senate taking their motion into debate, and finding how great prejudice all Italy had re­ceived by the Slaves that were risen in Sicily (which were not then quite supprest) how that from a weak beginning, they had made a dangerous progress, and that it would bring their Fame and their Empire into con­tempt, when that their very Slaves could endanger both, resolv'd for this expedition to employ Clodius the Pretor, with Three thousand Men, who, having receiv'd his Commission (which was to put us all to the Sword) left Rome, and by great marches advanced towards us: we were not ig­norant of these preparations by the industry of Castus (who knowing the Countrey was empoly'd as a Spy, and till we were besieg'd, brought us frequent and true intelligences; but at last the Pretor and his Army, (which was recruited by some additional Forces out of Capua) were come so near us, that they drew up in Battalia, and faced our Fort. Spartacus, who was resolv'd to make them dispute every foot of ground, made some such vigorous Sallies, that the Romans were hinder'd from Camping above 24 hours, and had our numbers been equal to our resolutions, we had made our Enemies know, that those they had to deal with, had nothing of Slaves but the Name. My Prince having acquainted Clodus, by the loss of Two hundred of his Soldiers, of what temper we made, gave him leave to settle his Camp, lest he might harrass his own Men more than the E­nemies. The Pretor, who understood the art of war, and knew the truth of this Maxime, That a place strong by scituation is easily blockt up, elected that way of conquering us; But since I have so many things of Soldiery to acquaint you with, I must run them over briefly, by telling you, That though the season of the the year were very incommodious to lodge in the open air, yet the Romans having endured a world of mi­series by the fury of the weather, would not (for all) decline their [Page 91] Seige, but by the continuance of it reduc'd us to that extremity for want of Victuals, that we resolv'd, rather than suffer the torments of Famine, to fall upon all the Army, and with our Swords in our hands dye, acting our revenge; which determination we had the next morning put in practice, had not I found out a strange way for our deliverance: for the evening preceding that day, in which we resolv'd to perform our despe­rate enterprize, as I was looking over our Fort, I took notice of certain wild Vines, that grew upon the side of the Rocks, so thick, and in such abundance, that I began to fancy it no very difficult thing, by their help, and our own industry, to get down into the Plain. This imaginati­on I instantly communicated to Spartacus, and to the rest, who having viewed the place, were all of my opinion; we therefore began to make Lad­ders, like those in Ships, for the Vines being supple, of a great length, and strong, were almost as useful as Ropes, and the Rocks not making one conti­nued precipice, but in some places resembling Scaffolds and stages, did so facilitate our attempt, that two hours before day, we all safely descend­ed on the Plain; my generous Master having led us the way, which was always his practice, where there was any danger. Then as we were go­ing to advise with Castus, what way to take to recover the Mountain, my Prince over-hearing it, came, and begg'd us to make use of no other guide but him, and to take no other way, but that which led to the Roman Camp, where Victory, as certain as it would be glorious, did attend us: In a word, he told us so many arguments for embracing so happy an op­portunity, that they preferr'd the honor of the attempt before their own safety, and obeyed Spartacus, who leading them some ten furlongs about, fell into Clodius Camp, and found them so unprepar'd, (for they kept no Centuries, but towards the Advenues of our Fort, having all Italy to friend besides) that we kill'd above 500 of them in their Hutts, before they took the Alarm, which at last was so hot (not knowing from whence so great an execution proceeded) that Clodius and all those that escap'd the fury of our Swords, were obliged to their Feet for their safeties, and left us the quiet possession of their Camp, with all the Riches, Victuals, and Arms in it. The report of this great success, was so suddainly dispersed, that in less than ten days, above 1000, as well slaves, as discotented and poor Men, came to offer their service to my Prince, who willingly re­ceived them, and gave Arms to such as wanted any, out of those he had taken from the Pretor. But Spartacus having no bank of Treasure to maintain such a confluence of People, as every day came thronging un­der his Ensigns, and knowing, that to live upon the spoil, was as dishonest as unpolitick, and would so scatter his Army, that the Romans could not miss an occasion of destroying it, publish'd, that if the Countrey would send him in a competent proportion of Victuals and Money, they should receive no prejudice, but if they neglected so favourable an offer, what­soever miseries they suffered by it, must be cast upon the score of their obstinacy. This in some places prevail'd, but in others it did not, those enjoyed the effects of his clemency, and these resented the reward of their wilfulness. But to confine my self to my ingagement of running over briefly all my Princes generous actions in this War, I will acquaint you, that the Romans, after the defeat of Clodius, sent Varinus the Pretor with 800 Men against Spartacus, and because his Army was to be formed out of several Garrisons, which of necessity would take up some time, he sent Furius his Lieutenant, with 2000 Soldiers before him, to preserve the Countrey from our incursions, which my Prince having intelligence of, [Page 92] drew out a thousand of his select Men, and marcht all night with them towards a Valley, which Furius was to pass through next morning, and there, an hour before day, in two small Groves about a furlong asunder, he lodg'd his party. We had not long continu'd in expectation of our enemies, but we saw Furius in the head of his Army, marching in very good order, which Spartacus soon broke, for discovering himself with six hundred of his Soldiers, he gave the Romans, so resolute and unexpect­ed a charge, that at first he discompos'd them. But Furius, who percei­ved how unconsiderable our numbers were, soon rallied his men, and then gave us so vigorous a repayment, that we found it high time to give the signal for Canitius and Castus, with those four hundred Men that were yet in one of the Groves for our reserve, which no sooner appear'd, than the Enemy fled, not knowing but that every Wood might have been so furnisht. The Countrey being very fit to follow the execution, there escap't not above 100 in all, of which number, Furius was none, who scorning to owe his safety to his flight, thrust himself into the midst of us, and there found that fate which Spartacus endeavoured to prevent; but the eagerness of his Soldiers was such, that he could only oblige him in design, and not in action, yet after his death, he gave him a Burial suita­ble to the esteem he had conceiv'd of his Courage. This defeat increas'd our Army much more than the Romans lost in it, and the Senate no soon­er heard of it, but they resolv'd by a powerful force, to pluck up this War by the Roots, and not to send inconsiderable numbers against us, which did but serve to increase our reputation, and eclipse their own.

In order to which, they gave Cossinius the command of 10000 Men, and joyn'd him in Commission with Varinus, who by this was recruited with more than Furius had lost. Spartacus quickly found, that if these two Armies should joyn, 'twould be difficult, if not impossible, any lon­ger to maintain a War, and therefore was projecting some way to avoid this storm, but fancied none so probable as by taking the field, which might furnish him with an occasion to fight with them asunder. His Army then consisting of 8000 Men, he marcht directly towards Varinus, who lay encamped 60 Furlong from our Fort, in expectation of his Colleague, who had then newly left Rome. My Prince having faced his Camp, in­vited him out of it, and by many other ways endeavour'd to provoke him to Battel, but when he perceiv'd all was fruitless he entrencht him­self eight Furlongs from the Pretor, gave out, that his Men ran away daily, and for four nights successively kept great Fires in his Camp, and permitted none of his Soldiers to appear without, nor within his Trenches. The first night having advertisement, that Cossinius was within a little days march of Varinus, with as much silence as an Army could rise, he quit his Camp, leaving some few to continue those accustomed Fires in it, and marcht all night towards Cossinus, whose Scouts being taken by some of ours, after a few threatenings, confest that their General was not then in his Camp, but lay at a small Village not far distant from it, to make use of certain Baths which were there. Spartacus immediately sent Castus with a commanded party of select Horse to surprize him, and con­tinu'd his march towards the Enemy, but Cossinius got the Alarm time enough to recover to his Camp, which he was no sooner come into, than our Army stormed it, and after a bloudy resistance entred. There Cossi­nius observing how my Prince pierc'd, and broke his resolutest Troops, had the confidence to fight with him, which cost him his life. His fall was no sooner divulg'd, but all his Army sought their security in their [Page 93] feet, having found their Swords were unable to give it them; some two thousand escap'd, the rest were kill'd, and a few taken. The day by this time appear'd, and shew'd our Soldies, that the riches they had purchas'd by the victory, was as great as the Honour. Having rested and refresh­ed themselves awhile, the next night we return'd to our own Camp, where we found how well Varinus had been deluded by our Fires, and our Soldiers not shewing themselves the five precedent days. This, Sir (con­tinued Simander) is so strange, that were it not as general a known truth, I should not have the confidence to tell it you. The next morning after our return, Spartacus sent five hundred prisoners (taken at Cossinius's de­feat) unto Varinus, and bid them tell him, though the Romans usage to him, and their barbarous Commissions they gave their Generals of shew­ing no Mercy, deserved in justice, a proportionate return, yet he esteem'd an ill action fitter to be avoided than imitated, therefore presented him those Captives, having only exacted an oath from them, of not bearing Arms against him for a year. 'Twere hard to tell the severall conjectures our Enemies had in their Camp, when they perceiv'd those five hundred unarmed Men march up to them, but 'twere far more difficult to describe their grief when they knew the cause of it. The rage of this defeat, and the confidence Varinus had of not being reliev'd, made him alter that cold resolution of protracting the War, and by erecting a Scarlet Coat-Armour over his Tent (which is the Romans signal of Battel) gave us as much joy, as our success did afterwards afford him discontent. But his fury not having absolutely blinded his judgement, he drew up his Army in so advantageous a place, that he might retire safely into his Camp, if he found the Victory inclin'd to our side, which precaution he soon made use of, and by it deferr'd his ruine for a few days, which after­wards happen'd near Salapia, a considerable Town in the East part of Italy, where the success was so entire, that not above fifteen hundred escaped, in which number Varinus was, having lost his Axes and Rods, the badges of his Pretorship, with the Officers that carried then, to whom Spartacus soon restor'd them, and them to their liberty; but our Army commanded them to tell the Senate, that their General would not make use of the Regalia's, till he had the Empire too. Amongst those Pri­soners then taken, there was some young Men of Salapia, who thinking to have a share in Varinus Victory, were (the day before his defeat) come into his Army, and finding so different a fortune to that which they ex­pected, desir'd to speak with Sparta [...]us, where they told him, that Sala­pia was without any Garrison, that the chiefest Citizens in it, were their Friends and Kindred, and such with whom they had much power, which they would employ for the reducing of it into his hands, if he would restore them their freedom, and engage his faith that their Town and Townsmen should enjoy the same Immunities and Priviledges under him that they did under the Romans; in a word, they so represented the ter­ror the Salapians were in, and the interest they had in them, that Spartacus granted un [...]o them whatsoever they desir'd, and immediately march'd di­rectly thither. That which induc'd those Prisoners to make that overture, was, that some of our Officers in their d [...]scourse, had not only assur'd them, that the first design we should go upon, was to take in their City, but that they themselves must expect the last rigor of War, if they did not contribute their assistance in the reducing of it, which if they would undertake, and perform, might not onely be a singular advantage to Salapia, but preserve their own lives, which were so justly forfeited to [Page 94] the Law of Arms. These Men, through such like infusions, were so ter­rified, that partly out of relation to themselves, and partly out of care of their Town, which (without yielding) by the greatness of our Army (then indeed grown very considerable) must become in few days a prey to the insolent Soldier, inclin'd them to that motion, which was the cause of furnishing my Prince with an occasion of serving two of the most virtuous Lovers that time did produce, and in obliging them, he receiv'd a far higher satisfaction, than by taking of so important a place. By this our Army having fac'd Salapia, half those young Men were per­mitted to try their power, the other half remaining as Hostages for them, and truly they were so successful in the attempt, having terrified the Salapians with the vastness of our Forces (which impressions they were apt enough to receive by the bloody defeat of Varinus the Pretor) that immediately they deputed some of the chiefest Citizens to treat with my Prince, for the conditions of their surrender, and had so far advanc'd the work, that every thing was on the point of conclusion, when a Mes­senger from the Town desiring, and being admitted to speak with the Deputies, whisper'd them something in the Ear, after which, they all begg'd leave of Spartacus, to return for a while, there being in their ab­sence some tumults happen'd amongst their Salapians, which nothing but their Presence could appease, which being granted, and they not a quar­ter of an hour return'd, but those young Men that were imploy'd into Salapia, were sent back into the Camp, all the Walls Mann'd, and bloody Colours hung up, of which so sudden an alteration we could not imagine the cause, till those Prisoners told us, that during the Treaty, a young Gentleman called Perolla, who under the Romans had purchast much Glory, had by an Oration so perswaded the Salapians, that they were resolv'd rather to hazard their ruine by re­sistance, than purchase the avoiding of it by a submission; that the Ci­tizens having taken up that determination, would have detain'd them, lest Spartacus, incensed by their inconstancy, might inflict the punishment of it on them: Against which, they represented the injustice of the action, the certain death of their companions; and how 'twould give one that had the Power, the Will to destroy Salapia; but finding all their Rea­sons rejected, they went to Perolla, whose Gallantry, they said, was as great as his Courage, and having acquainted him with the conditions on which they were sent into Salapia, and their desires, he not onely highly commended their honesty, but gave strict order they should return to the Camp, which no one durst oppose, all of them having trusted him for the time being, with the absolute Command, We soon found by this relation, the occasion of so sudden a change, and that Salapia must be pur­chast with as much difficulty as a little before we were perswaded to have obtained it with ease. But Spartacus having fac'd it, found himself bound in Honour to make them repent the contemning of his Mercy, and there­fore instantly securing all the Avenues, he gave directions for many s [...]aling Ladders, Rowling Bridges, and Faggots, to be forthwith provi­ded: Then calling for all the Salapians, who were fifty in number, he told them, That he was sorry their Citizens had deluded him, but 'twas onely in relation to themselves, since it would render their de­struction as just, as it was inevitable: that to conquer so considerable a place, was more for his Honour, than to have it given him: That he had endeavour'd to make them yield by fair means, because he preferr'd the saving of Blood before the Glory of his Army: That for their own par­ticulars, [Page 95] their declining the temptations of their friends, and returning to his Camp, when they could not but doubt his resentment was a strong proof of their Gallantry, or of the high opinion they had of his; either of which causes were equally obliging: that by the character they had given him of Perolla▪ he was more ambitious to have him for a Friend than an Enemy, but would not desire that happiness then, left it might deprive him of a certain Victory: That he so much valued Virtue (though in his Enemies) that lest Perolla's might not be well seconded, he gave them all (as well for his sake as for their own) their liberty, and leave to imploy it in his service, for the defence of Salapia, which he assur'd them would be all little enough, against an Army on whom Victory did as constantly as justly attend. The Salapians, who expected a quite contra­ry entertainment, after many expressions of their joy and gratitude, re­ply'd, That if upon their return, they could not perswade their Citizens to yield unto so generous a Conqueror; that yet at least upon their Ram­parts, they would confirm the good opinion he had of their Coura­ges, and either make his Victory worthy that name, or his defeat the more excusable by their resistance. Spartacus extremely pleas'd with this promise, assur'd them, that he would in very few days summon them of their promise, and observe, if they would satisfy this last engagement, as punctu­ally as they had their first, which if they did, he would confess in giving them their freedom, he had more oblig'd himself than them. These young Men being come to Salapia, so magnify'd my Prince unto Perolla, that he knew not whether the misfortune was greater, in having so much Virtue [...] his Enemy, or the happiness in having so ample an occasion of glory. Two days were past in light skirmishes, whilst our preparations for an As­sault were perfected: The third, an hour before 'twas light our Army ad­vanc'd, and every Division having receiv'd their Orders, began a furious Storm, which was receiv'd with an equal Resolution: Six hours together the business was disputed, without any apparent advantage on either side, and every place fill'd with Horror and Blood, Death being given and re­ceiv'd in a thousand several ways: at last Canitius, who had the Command of all the Germans in the Army, planted one of our Ensignes upon the Walls, but was so suddainly repulst, that before my Prince could have time to commend his courage, he had cause to pity the misfortune of it: Nine of our several Commanders had the same fate that day, aswell in their resolutions as misfortunes, and Spartacus perceiving, that they at last fought, rather by Duty than Inclination, sounded a Retreat, which was so readily obey'd, that the Enemy found, it rather proceeded from apprehension than discipline, and therefore fell so briskly in our Rear, that it had endanger'd all the Army, had not my Prince in Person with 500 of the resolutest Men, made head against them, and though he stopt the execution, and at last made them retire, yet it was so leasurely, and in such good order, that their Retreat appear'd rather their Election than their Necessity. Spartacus having doubl'd his Guards, and taken strict Order for the rendring ineffectual of all Sallies, return'd to his Tent more unsatisfy'd with the repulse, than with the loss, where all those Officers, whose wound permitted them, and who had that fatal day escap't Perolla's Sword, came to justify themselves, professing that they were not more troubl'd at their disgrace, than desirous the next morning to repair it, and manifest by their Victory, that the suspension of it proceeded from their want of Fortune, not of Courage, or by their death shew whose Soldiers they were; That their affront (by a joynt concurrence, of all [Page 96] their observations) proceeded from Perolla, who was ubiquitary, and knew no certain Post, but where there was the certain'st danger, which he courted with an eagerness as great as his success. Many other expres­sions they made, to vindicate the affront, and to shew how willing they were to repair it, which would be too tedious to relate, and to which my Prince reply'd, that he was as much satisfy'd with the sence they had of their misfortune, as troubled at the occasion of it, that according to their desires, the next morning he would again storm the Town, and help them to vindicate their Credits, or bear a share with them in their failer: and in pursuance of that resolution, commanded them back to their several charges, with Orders, as soon as the day dawn'd, that they should begin again the Storm, that the Enemy (if overcome) might acknowledge by the not altering the Assailants, nor the order of the Assault, that it was their Fortune onely had suspended their destructions, The Officers by many expressions having thank'd Spartacus, for so high a Compliment plac'd upon their Courages, were retiring, when there came in news, that Granicus, with most of those others which we thought had been kill'd by the Salapians, were coming to my Prince, who extreamly surpriz'd at the accident, sent for them in; Granicus therefore, (with Six­score of his companions) immediately presented himself, and told him: after the Assault, Sir, was ended, Perolla commanded all the Prisoners to be brought unto him, and having learn'd, that I was of the most conside­rable quality amongst them, addrest himself unto me, and spoke to this effect. That liberty which both you and your companions have lost, by my fortune, I here again restore you, and for your Ransome, I shall one­ly desire you to tell the generous Spartacus, I am exceedingly trou­bled that he has so much cause to look upon this action, as an expres­sion of Gratitude, and not of that Affection his Gallantry has created me; and though his usage to the Salapians he sent me, expects this as a just retribution, yet the high opinion I have of his Vertue, was no way an inferior motive: tell him besides, that those, whose wounds will not per­mit them to go off with you, shall receive an entertainment which shall speak the opinion I have of their General, that their healths and Liberties shall be the same thing, and that I almost think it a misfortune to defend my Countrey, since by it I am necessitated to be his Enemy. This high Generosity had so powerful an influence on my Prince, that had not his Honor been so deeply engag'd, he had rais'd the Siege, and would have thought it more Glorious to decline fighting against so gal­lant and civil an Enemy, than to have conquer'd him; but that Ty­rant which binds us to follow other Mens opinions more than our own, forc't him to continue his former designe of storming Salapia next morn­ing, and I dare truly affirm, the desire he had of taking so considerable a place, was more prevalent with him, out of an expectation, that there­by he might evince himself worthy Perolla's friendship, and find an oc­casion to oblige him, than any other consideration whatsoever; which lest the fury of his Soldiers might prevent, he assur'd those that could save the generous Perolla's life, should have a more considerable reward than his Ransome. The day no sooner appear'd, but Castus began the Assault on the East side of the City, and Canitius with his Germans on the West, where Spartacus himself was, who perceiving many of his Men kill'd, and the rest extreamly shaken, to avoid the precedent days fate, took up his own Colours, and cryed out; Those that love their Honour, or their General, let them follow me, then marching a round [Page 97] pace thorough Canitius's Men that were flying, he came against a cloud of Arrows to the foot of the Wall, where erecting some Scaling-Ladders, he resolutely and successfully climb'd up, and after a bloudy dispute, beat off the Defendants, and planted that Colours he had in his hand upon the Rampire; I had the honour to be the nearest to him in this action, where he did so many noble exploits, that Fortune must have been as unjust, as they say she is unconstant, had she refus'd him this Victory. No sooner had our Army perceiv'd how easy a passage my Prince had made, than above 6000 of them enter'd by that way, and without shedding any more Bloud, rendred themselves absolute Masters of the City; but whilst Spartacus was taking order to preserve the Sa­lapians, as much as in such an occasion was possible, and that he had dis­pers'd many of his Officers, and I with them to do the like, as I was go­ing through one of the fairest streets, I saw a great confluence of Soldi­ers about a House, whose Structure sufficently spoke the magnificence of the owner, and being come thither, I inquir'd what was the cause of it, one of the Officers soon inform'd me, that a company of young Gen­tlemen onely, considerable for their resolutions, had made so generous a defence, and so slighted all Quarter, that they were necessitated to make use of numbers to suppress them, and that now at last they had kill'd all the Defendants but one, who having gain'd a narrow Stair-case, was yet making of it good, with so much courage, that he deplor'd the destroying, as much as the effects of it, and that he understood this generous man's name was Perolla. You may easily imagine the hearing of that name, gave me an unexpressible desire to save the Master of it, and having conjur'd the Officer to run and acquaint Spartacus with it, I thrust my self into the croud, and by many actions which shew'd my con­cernment and haste, commanded them in Spartacus's name, to forbear any further attempt against so generous an Enemy. This Order found a ready obedience, as well out of the knowledge they had of the affecti­on my dear Master honor'd me with, as out of a desire to preserve Pe­rolla, who they now fought against, rather to shew that an Army might kill him, than out of any design, they had to doe so. At last by the help of our Officers I came to the place where the gallant Perolla stood, who appear'd to me to be less weary with conquering than our Soldiers were with assaulting him, and spight of that Bloud which endeavour'd to dis­figure his Face, I perceiv'd a Countenance so Spiritual and so Lovely to­gether, that I knew not which most to admire, but my wonder was quick­ly rais'd to a higher pitch by the sight of a Lady, who possest the seve­ral Beauties of shape, stature, complexion, and features, in so inaccessi­onal a degree, that an affection for her could not so properly be called Passion, as Reason. The contemplation of so many perfections had almost made me forget the design I was come for, which fault I soon repair'd, by addressing my self to the generous Perolla, and telling him. The great Spartacus (Sir) who cherishes Virtue whereever it is plac'd, has sent me hither to preserve so great a possessor of it as you are, for he believes your Gallantry is a stronger obligation on him to serve you, than your imploying of it against him, is to make him your Enemy. Since (reply'd Perolla) that is your Generals Principle, the fair Izadora here is a wor­thy object to employ that generosity on, which I believe you cannot doubt, when I assure you, that her exterior parts are as far short of the Beauties of her Mind, as the Passion I pay her is unworthy the Object: for her sake I can beg, though not for my own, and will acknowledge you [Page 98] civility as great as your courages, if you will promise me she shall re­ceive an usage as proportionate to her merit, as you can possibly pay her: this engagement will be more obliging farr than my own safety, and make that death which my sad fate now renders necessary, as full of happiness as such a deprivation is capable of. As I was about to answer him, I was hindered by a great noise, which turning about to discover the cause of, I perceiv'd it was my Prince, who with incredible haste was breaking through the Croud, and came time enough to see the perfect Izadora fling her self at her Lovers feet, and tell him, Alas Perolla! can you talk of hap­piness in death, and yet think of leaving me behind you? did you ever find any felicity in separation, that you beg it even of your very Ene­mies? or have you so low an opinion of my passion, as to think I can survive you? Ah Madam (said Perolla, interrupting, and putting him­self in her posture) if you will lessen my trouble, give me rather marks of your disdain, than of your love? since the vastness of that score now creates my sufferings, which are so great, they cannot be increast but by new additions of your favour: Judge then, if it be not time to dye, when my highest blessing, that of your Affection, proves my torment. Then (reply'd Izadora) my condition will as much require death as yours, for 'tis as impossible for me not to augment your sufferings whilst I live, as 'tis to survive you, which since my sorrow will not permit, let my Love anticipate the effects of it: this will be more proportionate to my vows, and cut off the tortures of a lingring life, so Death, the enemy to other passions, may prove the friend of ours, and conferr that union on us in the other life, which our Fates and cruel Parents have deny'd us in this. Izadora (said Perolla) flatter not my hopes with an union in the other World, the gods which held me unworthy of you here, will have much more cause to continue that belief, when instead of your mortality, they shall cloath you with the reward of Virtue; alas, then you will be fitter for their adoration than mine. Can there be (she reply'd) a felicity in the other World for Izadora, if she be divided from Perolla? do not by such suggestions fright me into a hatred of Elizium, which, if what you say be true, will lose its quality, and fancy not the gods unjust, onely to make us miserable: no Perolla, we have walkt too exactly in the paths of Virtue, to fear Death, and as an argument of this truth, that minute which separates your Soul from the fair Mansion it now inhabits, shall give mine freedom, for to dye, is a Blessing or a Curse, if the first, I will not be deny'd it too, if the latter, I hope 'twill hinder your despair, when you know I will involve my self in it. This noble dispute had con­tinu'd longer, had I not told Perolla, that Spartacus was come, who in­deed was so ravished with the Virtue of these Lovers, that his admira­tion made many who knew him not, suspect that his suspense proceed­ed from his being as absolutely vanquisht by the Eies of one of his Ene­mies, as his Sword had been victorious over all the rest; But Parth [...]nissa was too deeply fixt to be defac'd, and her Beauty had got so absolu [...]e an Empire over Artabanes Heart, that since her inconstancy could not destroy it, nothing else could have that power. But the Lookers on, who took his Affection to Vertue, to be a Passion of another quality, were not long in that error, for Izadora, who perceiv'd Perolla's great Heart could not make any desires to my Prince, esteem'd it an action fitter for her Sex to undertake, and addressing her self to him, put him out of those raptures their gallantry onely had created, by saying, Generous Spartacus did not that Title assure me you will receive a greater contentment in giving [Page 99] Perolla his Life, than he can resent by receiving it, and that I furnish you with an occasion to oblige your self more than him, I should now have been silent, and joyfully participate in his Fate, rather than be indebted for his preservation to a less noble Enemy: but your Gallantry is such, that the cause of his being conquer'd, takes away all resentment from the Effect. Izadora had continu'd speaking, but that her gallant Lover interrupted her, crying out, Oh Madam! Can you think Perolla will live after he has been so unworthy and miserable, as to obtain your safety by his Prayers, whilst he had a Sword to purchase it? add not so much to my misfortunes, as to make your Affection the cause of all those Torments I must hereafter suffer, should I now live; no Izadora, my death shall shew, that nothing but the desire of your safety could have induc'd me so long to survive my Honor. Finishing those words, he had flung him­self upon the point of his Sword had not my Prince (guessing at what he meant) ran to him, and though it were time enough to hinder his fa­tal determination, yet it could not prevent a slight wound which ma­nifested his sad intention. Izadora, on the other side, thinking Perolla had been his own Executioner, resolv'd to bear him company, and with a courage which disdain'd exclaiming against Fate, drew out a Ponyard which she had conceal'd for some such desperate exigency, and cry'd out, this stroke Perolla shall prove more kind than you, and give us that union you would so cruelly deprive me of: then lifting that fatal weapon, she had (doubtless) perform'd what she spoke, but that by thrusting away her Hand, I made that wound light upon her Arm, which she intended for her Heart, but having mist her aim, she was going to double her stroke, had not I forced the Ponyard from her. Whilst I was thus imploy'd Spartacus obtain'd an easy conquest over Perolla, who no sooner heard his fair Mistress cruel determination, than the bare sound of her death, banish'd all thoughts of his own, and having perceiv'd the service I had render'd him, he flung himself at her feet, and told her, I will live, Ma­dam, since this wretched life is so dear unto you, and on that score I shall cherish it, as much as I should detest it upon any other: Judge Iza­dora then, how precious your life is to me, since to continue it, I can be content to live in infamy. Live, generous Perolla (said my Prince) and since the belief of your being vanquisht is the cause of your despair, banish that groundless doubt, for you are so far from that condition, that you are the Conqueror, your Vertue has made you invincible, nor was it fit the fair Izadora should derive her safety from a less noble cause; I renounce all right to her preservation, and the wonders which your Sword has hitherto acted, shall be increast by this addition of remaining victorious in a Triumphant Army. Ah Sir, (reply'd Perolla) whilst you endeavour to make me a Conqueror, you are doubly so, your civility acts now what your courage did before, both which are so unresistable, that when I consider who you are, I shall excuse my self in my misfor­tune, and since you attribute miracles to my Sword, I will make it per­form one, which is to yield it self up. Perolla had satisfy'd this ceremo­ny, had not Spartacus so absolutely declin'd it, that all those which were present easily perceiv'd, his denial proceeded as much from his justice, as his civility. Whilst these two great Persons were by a thousand embraces confirming that friendship which they vow'd to each other, Perolla un­fortunately espy'd some Bloud runing out of the fair Izadora's Arm: alas, how fatal was that object like to prove, his passion made him act many extravagancies, which nothing but Love could render legitimate: but [Page 100] when he remember'd the cause of her wound, how soon was that new created harmony dissolv'd? and having again found, that all his attempts against his life were fruitless, he prostrated himself at his fair Mistresses feet, and told her: Must I then, Madam? must I the [...]see that precious Bloud shed for my sake, and at the same time be render'd uncapable of emptying all my veins to bear it company, and expiate my crime? must you spill your Bloud to preserve my life, whilst I make use onely of Pray­ers to preserve yours? Ah Izadora! be merciful, and permit me by one stroke, to end the miseries which these thoughts will still create. Alas (said Izadora) has your rage so much blinded your Judgement, as to think, that what is the cause of this slight hurt: if continu'd, will prove its reparation; rise, rise Perolla, and believe me, if these few drops have either manifested my Passion, or sav'd your Life; they are too gloriously spilt to be deplor'd, and if they create any resentments in you, they should be of a contrary nature to those which now appear. I must confess (con­tinued Simander) that my memory does not contain all the particular passages of so rare an entertainment, and therefore I will not so much wrong such virtuous persons, as to cloath their conceptions and expres­sions in any other language than their own; I will therefore in expecta­tion of your pardon for so high an omission, continue my discourse, by acquainting you, that after a friendship was contracted, which was as perfect as the friends themselves were, that Perolla's despair was abso­lutely conquer'd, and that his, and his Izadora's wounds were drest, my Prince invited them to his Quarters, out of that Massacre and deluge of Bloud, which his new friend had made, and though his many wounds render'd the least motion, both dangerous and painful, yet he thought the greatest torments would be in his separation from the fair Izadora, and therefore having made his pain appear the less, to make his happi­ness really the greater, he assur'd my Prince, that without any inconve­niency, he would wait upon her and him to those Lodgings he had as­sign'd her, whither as they were going, they might perceive some barba­rous Soldiers driving before them two Gentlemen, whose Age and Coun­tenance merited a different usage (though their past actions did not) and I dare avow, though their sufferings were great, and that the manner in which they were inflicted, was as sensible as the pain; yet they did bear them with much joy, for each of them by the knowledge of his own usage, guessing at that of his Enemies, found his satisfaction in his very tor­ments. But they were no sooner perceiv'd by Izadora and Perolla, than both of them with many Tears, and passionate actions, begged my Prince that their Irons might be taken off, which was no sooner motion'd than granted, though those which kept them, alledged, that they were the Men which had spilt most of their companions bloud at the assault: then my dear Master desir'd Perolla to acquaint him what high relation could produce such rare demonstrations of affection, as he expret at their captivity? to which he reply'd, Sir, I must acknowledge that Gentleman (shewing Blacius) to be the fair Izadora's Father, and the other, (shew­ing Pacuvius) to be mine, though truly they have retain'd nothing, but the name and the power of Parents, they are those which we have reason to hate, and yet cannot; and though they have stifl'd all the dictates of nature, and oppos'd the purest flame that ever burned; yet we pre­serve out Duties to them so entire, that we resent any affliction which be­falls them, with a grief proportionable to their joy, if the self-same ac­cidents had arriv'd to us. Spartacus being inform'd of their qualities, sa­luted [Page 101] them with much respect; but he perceiv'd, assoon as they had learn'd to whose intercession they owed that favour, that the means of their de­liverance supprest the contentment of it. This action made him extream­ly admire, what strange causes they were, which could have so unusual an operation, and having found at last, that each of them rely'd upon the justice of his cause, he desir'd to hear their difference, to which the Fathers willingly consented, as being confident in their right, and ha­ving heard a true character of my Prince's Justice, as on the other side, Izadora and Perolla willingly submitted to it on the same grounds. The next morning then being appointed for this Audience, my Prince having conducted our virtuous Lovers to his own Quarters, which when he had surrender'd them, and there (as a mark of his confidence and friend­ship) acquainted Perolla with the word, he withdrew himself to settle and secure his new Conquest, leaving them in as high an admiration of his Gallantry, as he had conceived of theirs. The next day was not many hours old, but he was inform'd by the messenger he had sent to complement the generous Lovers, That they expected with much impa­tiency, the Judge of their Felicity or Misery: to satisfie their longing, he waited immediately on them, bringing with him their Fathers, where finding by the Chirurgeons, that so long a disourse as their fortunes must amount unto, might prejudice Perolla's health, they prevail'd with Izadora to undertake the Relation, which a general silence inviting her to perform, she began it in these words.

PARTHENISSA.
THE FIRST PART.
BOOK IV.
The Story of Izadora and Perolla.

I Must Sir, as a friend to Truth as well as to our Fathers inform you, That their hatred is not a purchas'd but an hereditary one, and bears so antient a date, that the original cause of it as absolutely forgotten as the sad effects it has produc'd are recent, that what was but passion or resentment in the beginners of this fatal dif­ference, has turn'd to nature in their Children, that our Parents have inherited their predecessors Malice as well as their Estates, and as if fortune had hitherto affoded instruments to nourish this sad dif­ference, in seven descents successively our Ancestors have always left heirs male to perpetuate this quarrel, whereby many of our Families have sacri­fic'd their lives to the blind rage of the authors of them: but at last the gods having given Pacuvius no other heir than the generous Perolla, and Blacius than the unfortunate Izadora, all those which were concern'd in these do­mestick differences, began to make it their hopes as well as 'twas their prayers, that by an union of us two, this antient animosity might be ex­tinguisht; but alas, the higher Powers it seems had otherwise decreed, for Blacius more troubl'd that he wanted a Son to inherit his hatred than his estate, imagin'd (since my Sex exempted me from those violent re­sentments which he held so necessary to his blood) he ought to collect in himself all the resentments of those which should have succeeded him, and act some design suitable to his hatred and despair, that the effects of it might be always recent enough in Perolla's Family, to supply the expiration of his own (Pardon me Sir, said Izadora, addressing herself to her Father, if I speak those words which you have your self so often reiterated.) And on the other side Pacuvius seeing but one man of his Enemies alive, re [...]olv'd to be reveng'd on him in such away, that the manner of his death should be as deplorable to his friends as the very extinction of his Family. (I must beg your pardon to Sir, said Izadora, addressing herself to Pacuvius) be­cause you are the Father of my Perolla, though what I say your profes­sions as well as actions have endeavoured abundantly to justifie. These Sir (continu'd Izadora, speaking to Spartacus) were the reasons and resolu­tions of our Parents when Perolla and I were in an age as innocent as that we now are in is miserable; and as a further evincement of their hatred, I have been often told, that Blacius was angry with nature for having given me this little Beauty, least it might tempt Perolla, and Pacuvius was the like [Page 103] at the inevitable charms of his virtuous son, lest they should raise in me a Passion which might create that union they so abundantly fear'd; therefore what education they thought fit to give us was in private, in which if we made any progress, Pacuvius and Blacius thought it as great an injury to have it publish'd as other Parents would to have had it conceal'd. Judge (Sir) on the other side, if ever there could be a higher hatred than that which subverted the dictates of Blood and Nature, (and on the other) if there could be a greater affection than what conveted anti­pathy into sympathy. I must (before I proceed any further) acquaint you, That though Salapia and Capua be near thirty miles distant, yet Pacuvius has a vast Estate there as well as here, and as if all things had contributed to nourish the distraction of our Families, Blacius has the like there too, lest (as I believe) by being separated, their rage might want that flame which the sight of each did inspire. To hinder me there­fore from the knowledge of Perolla's increasing excellencies, Pacuvius sent him to Capuas, and remov'd thither himself shortly after; where whilst his gallant Son was making a large proficiency in all those reali­ties and ornaments which have since made him the greatest glory of our Times; Hanniball, that victorius Captain, who had made Spain his first Conquest for the Carthaginians, undertook Italy should be the next, and ha­ving past such dangers, which to believe, is almost as hard as to have overcome them, and suffer'd miseries to invade the Romans, which no Nation else would have undergone, but to have avoided them; he at last scal'd the Walls of Italy (the Alpes) which indeed was a very strange thing, most men believing it a task as difficult to enter this Coun­trey that way, as to subdue it when gotten in, and having with Fire and Sword made wayes where natures self had deny'd them, in four set Battles at Ticinum, Trebia Thasimene, and Cannae, vanquish'd the Consuls Puicus Cornelius Scipio, Sempronius Longus, Caius Flaminius, Terentius Varro, and Paulus Aemilius, whose defeat invited the Attelanian, the Calatinians, the Samnites, the Brutians, the Lucanians, and divers other people of Italy, to submit to that yoke they esteem'd it impossible to re­sist; and had the great Captain follow'd Maherball's (the General of his Horse) advice, and marched directly to Rome, he had without all dis­pute possest himself of that triumphant City, which since has given Laws to those that might have impos'd theirs on her, but having mist his opportunity, and thereby the Romans having chang'd their fears in­to nobler Passions, he apply'd himself wholly to the Conquest of Ca­pua (the second Rome) where Pacuvius's hatred to Blacius soon furnish'd Hanniball with an opportunity proportionable to his desires: For my Father has been always so inviolable a friend to the Romans, that he almost rejoyc'd at heir defeats, since they furnish'd him with an occa­sion to j [...]stifie he was ty'd to them, not to their posterity; and though Pacuvius were very much their friend, yet he was much more his Re­venges, which Passion was so predominant, that it made him act things both his reason and interest condemn'd, and which no other considera­tion could have seduc'd him to. To confirm this truth, when he found that Blacius was unalterable to this Empire, and that their probable ruine did rather confirm than shake him, he resolv'd under an appear­ance of securing himself and Capua to ruine my Father, to which acti­on he was the apter to incline by Hanniball's Letters, which assur'd him, if by his power Capua were deliver'd into his, the Citizens should find no alteration but the difference of their Protectors, which small [Page 104] change should be recompenc'd sufficiently with many Immunities the Rom [...]ns had deny'd them; and that for his own particular, he would make him no positive offers, since that were to confine to certain Articles the recompence of his merit, and put limits to those rewards which he re­solv'd should have none. I must do Pacuvius that right as to profess I believe, though these glittering promises advanc'd the putting his design in execution, yet his revenge was the onely cause of it, which made him de­termine rather to ruine his Countrey and Enemy together, than preserve both. Alas, What miserable events has that blind fury produc'd? and, How has it darken'd those many other virtues which would else so clearly shine in our Fathers? The fair Izadora could not speak these words without shed­ding some Tears, which did not onely abundantly manifest the goodness of her disposition, but as much prov'd that grief it self when it dwelt in her face could not but relish of the place in which it resided: but this disorder being vanquish'd, she thus continu'd. Pacuvius had no sooner recev'd Hanniball's Letters than he assembl'd the chiefest of Ca­pua (where Blacius then was) and by too great an Eloquence for so ill a subject, so represented the forlorn condition of the Romans, the triumphant one of the Carthaginians, the advantages of accepting the Conquerors offers, and the miseries of declining them; that at last the Capuans fears and Hanniballs Armies advancing to besiege them, hel­ping his destructive Oratory, all the Citizens resolv'd to buy their safe­ty by the loss of their Faiths, and present their new Master with their Keyes and Liberty: and though Blacius by a world of arguments en­deavour'd to divert so fatal a determination, yet all the advantage he de­riv'd from it was, to manifest his affection to the Romans, and to make it evident, that the Capuans submitting to the Carthagineans was an acti­on as opposite to reason as honesty. Magius also, my Fathers Brother (betwixt whom there was always as great a difference in humours as near­ness in blood) in this design join'd with Blacius, but to no effect, the Capu­ans having shut their ears to all motions but those of becoming slaves to Hanniball; who, being informed by Pacuvius, that Capua was at his devo­tion, made into it a triumphant Entry, many thousands of people re­sorting thither, to behold that Man in whom such virtue dwelt, and upon whom fortune so constantly attended, that whilst his courage was subduing his Enemies in one place, his Fame effected the like in an­other. But whilst these solemnities were performing, Blacius with­drew himself into this city; more out of apprehention that his death would be pleasing to Pacuvius than to decline sacrificing himself for the Roman Empire: But Magius continu'd still at Capua, and his Counsels being told to Hanniball by Perolla's Father, so exasperated him, that as a testimony of his fury and power he demanded Magius of the Senate, whose fear clouding their justice, deliver'd him up, and who immediately he caus'd to be executed in the Market-place. For this Death Hanniball's cruelty was not so much condemn'd as Pacuvius'S, whose hatred to our blood was so exorbitant, that though Magius did ever oppose Blacius, and was always oppos'd by him, yet the being my Fathers Enemy was so prevalent with Pacuvius to save him, as being his Brother was to condemn him: Thus by this sad tragedy the Capuans found sufficient cause to repent, though not to repair their inconstancy. But now (Sir) I shall tell you a passage which perhaps will be as much admir'd for the gallantry as the rare­ness of it: Hanniball who indeed had contracted a real friendship with [Page 105] Pacuvi [...]s, either as esteeming his interest in the Capuans necessary to confirm and augment his Conquests, or his virtues worthy that honor, or both; but as a mark of his esteem and trust, he lodg'd in his house without the ordinary guards which attended his person: In the mean time Perolla, who always had a high inclination to the people of Rome, and consequently detested his Fathers actions; began to project the death of Hanniball, in which nothing made him irresolute but the vio­lating of the Laws of hospitality, and since the consequence was of so generous a design; it will not be amiss to acquaint you with some of his reasonings, before he elected it. What (said he to himself) shall I kill the upholder and revenger of our blood? Shall his friendship to my Father be the cause of his ruine? and, Shall he receive his death from those with whom he trusts his life? Shall I, to revenge the Romans, stain my own reputation with a Murther, and ruine my own Family? Who can­not 'scape being sacrific'd to the Carthagineans fury? Shall Rome owe her safety to a cause which if she approv'd, rendr'd her unworthy of it? Shalt thou kill a Conqueror, whom the gods have freed from their own imme­diate punishment (Thunder) by covering him with Laurel? Shalt thou make away an Enemy. who in thus giving thee the power to destroy him, makes it a crime to do it? besides he is one who owes his Conquests onely to his Courage and Conduct; and if the Roman Empire be van­quisht with those Arms, she deserves that Fate, which to oppose, were to contradict the justice of the gods, and virtue it self: Ah no Perolla, leave off the thoughts of such a design, than which nothing can be a greater Crime but the performing it. He had certainly gone away, alter'd, though [...]ot pleas'd with these reasons, had not his good Genius inspir'd him with what you shall now hear. 'Tis true, said he, Hanniball is the upholder and revenger of our Family, and therefore the performance will be more glo­rious: What greater obligation can I put upon the Romans than to ruine our Family, to maintain their Empire? Had Magius been as much a friend as he was an enemy to our blood, design might wear the name of revenge, and an action of publick concernment might be stil'd the effect of a particular hatred, so that all his favours should rather invite than dis­suade the attempt, which these circumstances will prove rather an impartial justice than ingratitude. But remember Perolla, how thy Countrymen branded with infamy Perpenna for having murther'd Sertorius, though an enemy to the Commonwealth, how much more will they detest thee for de­stroying one whose too much virtue and success are his only crimes. But then (he continu'd) Why may not I suppose they did but counterfeit, since States have the same arts as particular persons, and it had been an unwise justice to commend that which they could not sufficiently reward: This part of Perpenna's fate I hope will attend my attempt, which is one invi­taion more, for to perform what any but the gods can reward is to sell gallantry, besides my case will be nobler than his, for I cannot doubt the higher Powers so much as to deny him the freedom of his Sword to defend his life, that if he fall, he may owe it to my courage not my treacchery, and then i'll expose my self unto his Army, since to fly were to shun Martyr­dom, and to out-live the fact, would shew as if I desir'd to enjoy that secu­ty, I purchase onely for my Countrey. These and many other arguments so fully confirm'd Perolla, that he onely attended an opportunity to put his resolution in practice, and though his green age (being then but 18 years old) might have made his change from this determination ap­pear rather a thing incident to youth than a want of Valor, yet he so [Page 106] much ador'd virtue, that he could not be unconstant to whatsoever bore her Character. After he had with incredible impatience expected an oc­casion, Fortune seem'd one night to furnish him with one, for having learn'd that Hanniball had withdrawn himself into his Chamber for a few hours, to make a dispatch to his friends at Carthage, and that all his fol­lowers were upon the like employment to theirs; Perolla (who had al­ways free access unto him) was going to execute his design, but it seems the Fates would not let him by one generous action hinder himself from performing many; for Pacuvius, who had some intelligence then brought him, of a design the Capuans had to revenge Magius's death, and to recover the freedom which that execution sufficiently shew'd they had lost, was then coming to acquaint Hanniball with it, and in such a conjuncture of time, that the Father and the generous Son met each other at his Chamber door; where Pacuvius seeing Perolla arm'd, was struck with so great an astonishment, that nothing could increase it but the knowledge of the cause, which Perolla acquainted him with, in such ravishing terms, that his reason though not his inclination was converted; and finding the happy operation which his arguments produc'd, he began to conjure his Father, by all those motives he esteem'd most prevalent, that he would by some high performance regain the Romans good opinion, which it seem'd the gods invited him to perform by offering him so favourable an opportunity to kill Hanniball; for (said he) the action is good or ill, if the first, it has invitation enough in it self; if the latter, the people of Rome cannot doubt your conversion, since to assure them of it, you perform what is as contrary to your nature and practice, as your former Crime in delivering up Capua was repugnant to their interest. I wi [...] not (said Izadora) trouble your patience by telling how Perolla offer'd to relinquish to his Father the glory of the attempt; nor all those other things which you may imagine so rare a subject could furnish a judge­ment with that was so, since this design by a seeming delay receiv'd an absolute suppression; for Pacuvius, who found that his generous sons reasons and resolutions were not to be vanquish'd, counterfeiting to be so himself, and promis'd him as soon as that great Conqueror was out of his protection, he would join in the enterprize; in the mean while he begg'd Perolla with tears and sighs to delay the execution of his at­tempt, and not to violate the Laws of hospitaly, which would be as great an offence unto the gods, as the performing it might be an obliga­tion to the Romans. These, and many such pressing motives vanquish'd my dear friend, especially since the design was not supprest but suspen­ded, and that a small deferring would take away the seeming aspersion of breach of Trust, and so involve his Father in the execution, that he might thereby efface his former injuries to the Romans. But Perolla was no sooner retir'd, than Pacuvius went in to Hanniball, and inform'd him, that the Capuans were so highly incenst at the death of Magius, that he be­fought his permission to leave him his whole house, and that he would fill it with his Guards, lest the World might lose its greatest glory, and he his best friend. At last Hanniball consented to Pacuvius's request, who the next morning remov'd, and whose house was immediately so throng'd with Soldiers, that the impossibility of attempting against that famous Captains life was as great as the destroying it had been pleasing to Perolla, who finding how much his Father had abus'd him, resolv'd in himself to go to the Romans, and by the gallantry of his Actions manifest, that 'twas Pacuvius, and not Pacuvius's blood which was an ene­my [Page 107] to their Empire, with this further hope, that his fortune in the ma­ny accidents of War might furnish him with an opportunity to assault and destroy that Life in the fight of both Armies, which had been hither­to preserved by his Fathers Tears and Dissimulation. And the Fates, who have been as much his friends in actions of Glory, as his Enemies in those of Love, knowing what he was destin'd to perform, was too great to delay any time, caus'd Pacuvius (who still apprehended the discovery of his fiction, and the sad events it would inevitably produce) to com­mand his generous Son, to go into this Town, which then had been freshly yielded to Hannibal by Pacuvius power, there to countenance his friends; which injunction you may well conjecture was as pleasing to Perolla, as his removal from Capua was to his Father. This journey thus resolv'd, Pacuvius furnisht his Son with a Train fit for one of the Bloud of Diomedes the Argian, who founded the City of Agrippa in the Bruti­ans, from whom he was lineally descended. After he left Capua, he lay in a Town call'd Pettely, and the morning following, was waken'd with an Alarm, that the considerabl'st part of Hannibal's Army, under Himil­co's Command, had surrounded the Town, which had struck so great a terror in the Pettelines, that they had deputed some of the Inhabitants, to Treat on conditions for a surrender: the timerousness of those peo­ple did not so much perplex him, as he was pleas'd at so large an occa­sion of Glory, he could not fancy that the design of yielding, proceed­ed from fear, but want of a Chief, which might employ their courages to the best advantage, and though his green Youth had till then exempted him from the harass and noise of Arms, yet his Genius had ever so great a propensity to War, that he then understood as much of the Theory, as since he has of the Practique, and thought too, that his Courage and Aversion to Hannibal, would supply the defect of his unexperience. Whist he was hastily putting on his Cloaths, he entertain'd himself with such thoughts, and was hardly ready when he went towards the Gate, through which, he was told, the Deputies of the City were to pass: where he was no sooner come, than he perceiv'd them, accompany'd by many of their friends. That sight (as he often told me) inspir'd him with so high a fury, that he commanded all those of his Retinue (which were above twenty) to draw their Swords, and let none pass through that Port, without his express Orders, then advancing himself towards the crowd, which accompany'd their Commissioners, he cry'd out to them; Whither run you, O degenerate Pettelines? can you think that Slaves to the Car­thegineaus is a more glorious Title, than Friends to the Romans? can you so much despair of the gods protection, as to act that your selves, than which their power cannot inflict a greater misery? is a wretched life so pleasing, that to purchase it, you will out-live the ruine of your Coun­trey, and which is worse, make your fears hasten it? if Gallantry and Reason will not move you, let the example of Magius's Bloud do it, which was shed a Sacrifice to appease Hannibal, and since his rage must be quencht by such oblations, 'tis more noble to let our veins be emptied to defend our liberty, than to be a testimony of our having lost it, which is a fate we shall too justly merit, if we do not oppose it. Many other motives he laid open to them, with such a charming Eloquence and Acti­on; that the Pettelines resolv'd to stop their Commissioners, and to own their sufferings to their Misfortunes, rather than their Fears. You will pardon me (Sir) said the fair Izadora, if I do but briefly pass over the affairs of this memorable Siege (though by it the Town become more fa­mous [Page 108] the Governor than the Founder, who was Philoctetes the Son of Pean, that kept the Arrows of Hercules, without which the Prophet Calchas, declar'd Troy not be taken) since my Sex dispences me from any knowledge in things of this nature, and because it serves but to acquaint you with that Gallantry of which already you have (with all the World) so just an opinion, I will therefore with your permission onely tell you, that after Himilco had receiv'd an absolute denial of Pettely from Perolla, a thousand affronts by bloody Sallies, and that he had continu'd four Months of a difficult Siege: he at last, plainly sent Han­nibal word (then beleaguering of Cassilinum) that unless he, and all his Army came to his relief, the Pettelines were like to carry away too much Glory for those which were Enemies to Carthage. This message made him observe the desire of him that sent it, as much for the respect he paid so great a Soldier, as out of an opinion it would be no small accession to his Glory, if he could take a City which Himilco (by his own confession) esteem'd too difficult an enterprize for him alone. Hannibal therefore left Forces to block up Cassilinum, and came with the rest to Pettely, where having view'd the place, and the resolute countenance and posture of the Defendants (maugre his high Heart) he resolv'd before he came to ex­treams, to practice mild ways, which if they took, would not onely free him from those just fears the gallantry of his Enemies had created, but augment his reputation by his presence, reducing that which a great Ar­my, and a greater Coumander could not effect. In order to this resolve, he sent a Trumpet unto Pettely, who after the due ceremonies of War, was admitted, and deliver'd Perolla a summons, which contain'd these words.

This Letter, by the joint consent of all the Petelines, had this return.

THis Answer for what concern'd Perolla, though it had much of ci­vility, yet it had more of resolution; But Hannibal (the haugh­tiest of Men) was so accustom'd to conquer, that he esteem'd a refusal as bad as a defeat, and being inspir'd with a high rage at this denial, he gave so furious an asslault to Pettely, that almost all courages, but that of Perolla's, might without shame have yielded to it, but his in that defence did things so far transcending belief, that to raise your faith to credit them, I must lessen their greatness, and injure his valour, least you might be­lieve, I do the like to Truth: In a word, never more Lybia [...] Bloud in this Empire was so unsuccessfully spent, as there, and never Glory was more nobly purchas'd, than in that fatal day (to the Cartheginians) who lost, besides the hope of Conquest, 2000 of their best Men, and twice as many by their wounds, were render'd unserviceable. Whilst these things were acting, the Pettelines had sent two of their chiefest Citizens to beg the Senates aid, whom they found, (as well by that they observ'd, as by their own Declaration) in a posture, fitter to desire than send relief. This proceeding of the Senate, as it was a great proof of their ingenuity, so it was of their necessity, and therefore forced these Deputies to fling themselves at their feet, and conjure them with all expressions of a real grief, to make them messengers of more comfort, or else permit them to sacrifice their lives in their sights, as being a more pleasing destiny, than to be testimonies of the ruine of their City, which so fatal an answer, would render unavoidable. This Gallantry was so prevalent with the Senate, that after (through a generous sympathy) they had paid them back their Tears, they commanded the Deputies to return to their Citi­zens and tell them, that what they had done already, had been so obli­ging, that nothing could increase the score, but to save themselves by a timely submission to the Conqueror, and thereby preserve those who had shew'd so great a proportion of constancy and courage, that they were more concern'd in their safeties, than in their own. The two Commis­sioners at last, to obey their Masters, came home through a world of dan­ger with that return; and truly this was a tenderness of the Romans, which they had manifested to none of their subjects, for in all other cases they chose rather to lose their Friends, than the reputation of their Arms, but in this they preferr'd the former before the latter. But this was so far from inducing them to yield, that by Perolla's perswasion they deter­mined by a generous-resistance, or glorious ruine, to merit so high a Care, and that which made them the more intent on this, was, the Senates having acquainted them of their duty, which render'd their further actions, an obligation to the Roman Empire. But Hannibal, who by three bloody as­saults, had learn'd, that Famine onely could make him Lord of Pettely, had given over all hopes of obtaining it by storm, and lay a while blocking of it up, with as much quiet, as his disgraces would permit, and at last weary'd with the tedioussness of the Siege, left Himilco to strave them out, and brought the best part of his Army, to renew the Siege of Cassi­linum, where Manituis a gallant Roman, commanded. Himilco, to obey his Generals Orders, had in few weeks so straitn'd Pettely, that those in it did more justly fear their ruine from within than without, but by the [Page 110] generous example of Perolla they suffer'd with as much patience, as they acted with resolution; and to say truth, I know not which was more me­ritorious, their active or their passive parts. In this general Calamity there happen'd so rare an accident, that though I exceedingly long to run through these bloudy Relations, yet I cannot pass by this memorable Adventure, without being as unjust as the performers of it were gallant. The Famine in Pettely was so increas'd, that the place was inevitably to fall into the Enemies hands, were not the want of Victuals immediately redress'd; and though, (in the beginning of the Siege) they had sent away all their old People and Children, yet they retain'd so many Women, that the feeding of them must of necessity hasten their ruine. This in­convenience was never mentioned by Perolla, who bare too high a respect to our Sex, to preserve those of his own, by exposing ours to the least hazard or suffering▪ But a certain Lady (whose Virtue, Beauty, Ex­traction and Wealth, rendr'd her the most considerable amongst the Pette­lines) plainly perceiv'd how great an inconveniency Perolla's civility was like to produce. Amazora therefore (for so she was called) having got­ten a high and just value in that City, resolv'd to employ it to some end, which might make her self as famous to posterity, as her perfections me­rited. To effect this, she assembl'd the chiefest Women of Pettely; to those which she thought Glory was more pleasing than Life, she acquainted with her resolution of stealing out of the Town, and exposing her self to the Swords of Hannibal's Soldiers, and thereby free the City from the misery of Famine, or at least from their hastening it. To others, which she believ'd, prefer'd their safety above all other considerations, she re­presented the certain languishing death, they must unavoidably suffer by their residence in Pettely, and the probability of avoiding that Fate, by submitting to the Carthagineans, who could not be so merciless to a Sex which the unreasonable creatures even by the Law of nature, Reve­rence, and Preserve. In a word, she so fitted her perswasions to the seve­ral humours of those she courted, and at last so fully vanquish'd their fears, and confirm'd their resolution, that two nights after (having corrupted a Centinel, which was a menial Servant of hers, for there being no Garri­son, the Inhabitants did the duty) and by his help (her House standing upon the Walls of the Town) about two thousand Women (with Ropes and Baskets) got out of Pettely. The next morning before day, a ser­vant of Amazora's, brought this Letter to Perolla, who having open'd it, found it contain'd words to this purpose;

IT is not easy to imagine the high admiration which this Letter produc'd, and it is as difficult to describe the sorrow, which suddenly ensu'd, as the cruelty which was the cause of it, for as soon as the Sun had render'd visible all objects within the reach of sight, Perolla and his companions perceiv'd the Fields strewed with the dead Bodies of those gallant Wo­men, which the barbarous Affricans had cruelly murther'd. Judge (ge­nerous Spartacus) what a just fury this unequall'd impiety inspir'd Perolla, and the Pettelines with. But their actions will better acquaint you with their resentments, than my expressions can; For in that Sally (where they now were led on by Revenge, as well as Honor, they kill'd above 1500 Lybians, and the execution had been far bloudier, had not they spent the best part of their time in fetching off the Bodies of Amazora, and those of best quality, whose Names had no cause to wander, if the de­struction of their murtherers could hinder it. Never victory had less joy in it, than this, and never Funeral was solemniz'd with more Tears, than that of those admirable Women: and indeed, the Besieged's grief appear'd so just, that their Reason rather continu'd than supprest them. But it is high time to lead you out of so forlorn an entertainment, which I will do, by acquainting you, that though Perolla now perswades me I possess his Heart intirely, yet he cannot deny, but that I have onely the reversion of it; neither would I pass by (though the truth of my story oblig'd me not to it) the vertues of my Rival, which indeed merit a particular Elogium, and were I capable of describing them as they deserve, I know none that would have declin'd her Fate, to have had her Glory. Her Fire was of so peculiar a quality, that when it had reduc'd her to ashes, those very Reliques retain'd heat enough to inflame him, and perhaps there has been seldom heard of a love so strange in the Birth, in the Life, and in Death. For it was created by an object that was dead, the Effect remain­ed when the Cause was taken away, and having no material sustenance to preserve it self alive, it liv'd upon speculation, and to perfect the won­der, 'twas Izadora destroy'd it. But I tell you too much of the end, be­fore I acquaint you of the beginning, which fell out thus. Perolla returning from that famous Burial, one of those Men which had been ordered to take an Inventory of Amazora's Goods, and preserve them, presented him with a Letter he had found in her Closet, and because the Super­scription was ‘TO THE Gallant PEROLLA.’

He open'd it, and found it contain'd these words;

HE had no sooner ended Reading, than he cry'd out, Yes, fair Amazora, I will preserve you still in my memory, and were it not to obey your Commands, the World should know, that your death is so far from delaying mine, that it has but hasten'd it. Then folding his Arms one with­in another, he stood moveless as a Statue for a while, raining from his Eyes, whole showers of Tears; but after a world of confus'd thoughts had past through his fancy, he cry'd out again, Would it had pleas'd the gods (fair Amazora) to have made you as concern'd in my happiness, as in my glory: Cruel Honor! was there no expedient to build thy Tro­phies, but by the ruine of my Felicity? must the way to reach my Glory ruine my contentment? Oh, too hard Fates: why did I not know my happiness whilst I possest it? and why am I acquainted with it when 'tis vanisht? was I to be blest onely to be curst? must the knowledge of more joy than I could expect, create more grief than I can endure? and must Amazora's passion for me be so order'd, that the revealing of it must prove my Torment? whilst Izadora was relating this sad reasoning, her gene­rous Servant was so struck with sorrow, that she, who sympathiz'd with him in all virtuous Resentments, was constrain'd to break off her dis­course, which the company perceiving, they did manifest by a general si­lence from all things but sighs, how just an opinion they had of their grief, and how highly they approv'd the cause of it. A little time being so spent, and Izadora having wip'd away her Tears, thus continu'd her Story. I will not tell you all the melancholly expressions Perolla us'd, lest it might infect you with a grief I would willingly exempt you from, I shall there­fore inform you only, that he contracted a Passion for her memory, as great as any other could have had for her Beauty, and that (whilst the Siege continu'd) twice a day he constantly water'd her Urne with such abun­dant weepings, that had those Tears been inwardly imploy'd, they had doubtless extinguisht his Grief, his Flame, or his Life. At last, (gallant Spartacus) the Famine so increast in Pettely, that 'twas impossible any longer to maintain the place, and though Himilco offer'd him (and all those with him) conditions fit for Soldiers, yet he scorn'd to stand indebt­ed for his life, to those which had taken away Amazora's, but rather e­lected to force his passage with his Sword, or perish in the attempt: nei­ther was this only his design, but that which he infus'd into all the rest. That day being then come, the Town was on all quarters set on fire, that the Carthagineans might neither use nor glory in their Conquest, and Pe­rolla at the head of 3000 Pettelines (which were all that were left) furi­ously charged the Affricans, and by dint of Sword, forced his passage, and to animate his Soldiers, he cry'd out, (nothing but) remember Amazora and her followers. And truly I am perswaded, all the Eloquence the gods ever bestow'd on Man, could not have been more powerful, than were those few words. 'Twas in that great action, Perolla did miracles, and I have been told, the slaughter was so bloudy, that all those gallant un­fortunate [Page 113] Women, had each of them one of their dead Murtherers for a cover of their Graves, the Fight happening in those very Fields where so horrid a Massacre had been committed. On Perolla's side there fell 800. which number I believe he might have lessen'd, had he stolen, and not made his retreat, but night coming, ended their dispute, and my gallant friend, having rallied the reliques of his Forces, propounded, and per­swaded them to force their passage into Cassilinum, which was not above 200 Furlongs off, and which was besieged then by Hannibal. This re­solve being taken, the next night, by unfrequented ways, they began their march, and the day following, towards the evening, beat up a Quar­ter of the Carthagineans, and by the death of 700 Libyans, made a Tri­umphant entry into the Town, presenting Manitius (the Governor and Friend to Perolla) both with a Relief and a Victory, which so rais'd his dejected Soldiers, that they brake off the Treaty of surrender they had almost concluded. 'Twas in this memorable Siege that Perolla did such glorious things, that (as little as I am concern'd in affairs of that nature) they reacht my Ears, and I must with guilty blushes acknowledge, that the hatred I had to his Bloud, made me look upon those actions with Envy, which I shold have consider'd with Admiration. But after six months Siege, the same fate which attended him at Pettely, follow'd him at Cassilinum, and though the Famine was extream pressing, yet the Ro­mans, notwithstanding they were under the command of Marcellus (cal­led for his Courage, the Sword of the Roman Empire, by the Dictators going to Rome to take new Auspices) yet he durst not hazard a battel for their preservation. The Inhabitants and Soldiers of the Garrison (for all Perolla scorn'd it) finding their sad condition, privately offer'd to sur­render upon Quarter, which would not so much as be listn'd unto by Hannibal, for their abrupt breaking off their first Treaty, when the Re­liques of Perolla's Forces reliev'd them. At last, though they receiv'd some Provisions which Marcellus in Barrels sent them floating down the River Vulturnus, yet that stratagem being too soon discover'd, they were con­strain'd to feed upon Mice, Rats, and such Roots as they could dig out of their Counterscarfs and Meadows under their Walls, which being perceiv'd by the Carthagineans, he caus'd all those Fields to be plow'd up, but that was no sooner done, than Perolla and his Pettelines, by a Sally, sow­ed Seed in their Enemies labour. Hannibal being told it, only spoke these few words. Must then that which I design to strave the Romans with, prove their Harvest? and immediately sent Manitius and Perolla Blanks, to write their Conditions in, which they (being as invincible in Civility as Courage) return'd, and immediately came out without ma­king any: His usage indeed was generous, but he would not see Perolla, lest (as he said,) his Passion might force him to that violence, which his Reason detested. Hannibal thus became Master of Cassilinum, yet at his en­try into it, he solemnly vowed, he was more troubl'd to have Perolla for his Enemy, than pleas'd with his Victory. As for the Garrison, they march'd directly to the Dictators Army, where Pacuvius's Son was receiv'd both by him (who was then return'd) and by Marcellus, with an entertain­ment which relisht nothing of the hatred they paid his Father. The Se­nate too to gratify him, order'd that all his Soldiers, during their lives, should have double pay, and though they needed such courages, yet they gave them five years vacation, and for his own particular, they order'd his Statue to be be erected in Preneste, which was the next considerable Town: but he with a Modesty, great as his Merit, refus'd it himself, and [Page 114] had that Honour plac'd upon Manitius, thereby declining the re­ward, increasing his Title to it. Perolla having by such memorable ex­ploits, run through his Prentiship in Arms, was very desirous to wait up­on his Father, who he was confident had buried his disobedience in those generous Actions which had proceeded from it. Pacuvius then liv'd in this City, (which was under the command of Hannibal) and because his Sons Actions had been as fatal to the Carthagineans as advantageous to the Romans, he resolv'd to perform that visit and duty with as much secrecy as was possible, therefore he came late alone into the Town, lest a Reti­nue might give some suspition of his quality, and discover what he endea­vour'd to conceal; but as he crost a Street that was not far from Blacius his House, he perceiv'd, (by the light of a couple of Torches which lay up­on the ground, by the death of two had carried them) a Gentleman, who with much courage oppos'd himself against four that assaulted him, the inequality of the number, and the courage of the Defendant, made Pe­rolla (who never valu'd his life in the protection of the oppressed) re­solve to help him, that so highly needed it, and truly, had he never so little longer delay'd his assistance, he had been onely obliging in design, for by that time he was lighted from his Horse, and had drawn out his Sword, one of the four Assailants had gotten the single Gentleman under him, and was seeking out the defects of his Coat of Mail, to have taken away his life; But Perolla by a powerful stroke, cleft the wretches Head in two, and whilst his companions were amaz'd at so unexpected a relief, and so fatal a blow, Perolla gave my Father (for it was he indeed) leave to get up, and then presenting him with the Sword which he had lost by his fall, told him, Here (Sir) the gods will defend your quarrel, which I judge is good, because your enemies relye onely on the number for their success: Blacius had no time to make him any return of this civility, for the three Murtherers having resign'd their admiration to take up their first resolution, fell so vigorously upon my Father, and his generous Se­cond, that had they not been under the protection of Divinity, they had certainly miscarried: But Perolla, who had to deal with two of the three, received some wounds, which yet were so far from endangering his life, that they did but hasten the loss of theirs which had bestow'd them on him; for with a furious thrust, he dispatched the most importunate of them, and (in a word) after he had once again saved and reliev'd Blacius, they made an end of the other too. As soon as my Father found himself freed from his enemies, he came to Perolla, and told him, Sir, that I am in­debted to you for my life, is not a greater truth, than that I shall never make any scruple to lose it in your service, but lest my ignorance might (when occasion serves) render me uncapable of paying you that debt, I shall beg to be acquainted with your name, that by my future gratitude you may be convinc'd, the obligations you have laid upon one that was unknown to you, were not for all mis-plac'd, Perolla, though he knew not my Father, yet not daring to discover himself, reply'd. The service I have paid you, is so much the duty of one Gentleman to another, that it merits not an acknowledgement; and to assure you, this is not a Compli­ment but a Truth, I am resolved to conceal my Name, least by acquaint­ing you with it, you might imagine I expected some further return: then desiring to know if he had any other Commands to impose on him, he be­gan to take his leave: but Blacius, who admir'd his Civility as much as Courage, could not satisfy himself with such an answer, and therefore told him, I must rather believe, that some secret business draws you hi­ther, [Page 115] and that not knowing who I am, you apprehend my privacy: if this be the true cause, I beseech you remove it, for you could not think me worthy your defence, if after having sav'd my life, you doubted I could disclose any thing which might be prejudicial to my Protector. Perolla was about to reply, when (alas) on a sudden, the fresh colour in his Cheeks, began to wear Deaths Livery, his knees too to tremble, and at last his Spirits failing, he fell (without speech or motion) at my Fa­thers Feet, this sudden change made him suspect some private hurts were the cause of it, he therefore open'd his Doublet, and immediately disco­ver'd a Sea of Bloud, which issued from a large wound that had pierc'd his Body through and through. My Father instantly, with what Linnen he could tear, stop'd the bleeding as much as he could, but having in vain attempted to bring him from the swound he was fallen into, was running to his own House, which (as I told you) was not far off, to call for help, but he was not many paces in the way to this Duty and Charity, when he heard one of the four Mutherers fetch a deep groan: The pas­sionate desire he had to learn from whom he had so narrowly escap'd, made him pluck off the Vizard of him that was yet alive (for I forgot to tell you they were all disguis'd in Antick Cloaths and Faces) who no sooner receiv'd the benefit of the fresh Air, than he open'd his Eyes, and gave some small symptoms of life, which though they were false ones, yet he lived long enough to beg my Fathers pardon, and to acquaint him, that Pacuvius had ingag'd them by excessive rewards to undertake their crime. Blacius having receiv'd this information, went instantly to his own house, brought some Servants with him, and by their help, carried the generous Perolla home, whose wounds he caus'd the Chirurgions to dress, before he would take any care of a slight one he had receiv'd. In the mean time, the Alarm of my Fathers danger and return was brought to my Chamber, as I was undressing my self; which I no sooner heard, than I came running up, just as the Chirurgeons had by strong Cordials brought Perolla to himself. My Father when I came in, led me to his Bedside, and told me, if my life be any way considerable to you, you are indebted to this Gentleman for it, who by the hazard of his own, has preserv'd mine. Sir (I reply'd) I hope you have so just an opinion of my duty and affection, as to think that question needs no answer; but as for this Gentlemans Gallantry, I believe he will have no cause to repent it, if at least by the hazarding onely of one Life, he thinks himself suffici­ently recompensed by acquiring those of a whole Family. I shall re­nounce any of mine (said Blacius) that ever decline what you have spoken, and for your particular, (addressing himself to me) I command you to be as concern'd in him, as if I were in his condition, for I shall judge of your respect to me, by your care of my Friend. Then embra­cing Perolla, he told him, some importunate affairs, Sir, draw me from you for a while, for which I must beg your Pardon, but till my re­turn, I have injoyn'd my Daughter to supply my place. Madam, (said Perolla, interrupting the fair Izadora) I shall, with your permission, acquaint the generous Spartacus what happen'd, whil'st I continu'd in your Fathers House, which will not only ease you of some part of your Relation, but inform you of particulars, which, which perhaps your Modesty might injure you by silencing. Spartacus having made her the same request, and obtain'd her leave, Perolla thus continu'd. Your may (Sir) justly wonder, that to those high civilities of the perfect Izadora and her Father, she acquainted you with none of my returns, [Page 116] and truly, if she had, she must have made them her self, for I was so ravisht with her Beauty, that all I then was capable of, was of admi­ring it: for though she was not then in that advantagious dress which Rome so much commends, yet the habit she then had on, was order'd with such a pleasing negligence, that no Art was able to equal it, and if her Beauty had been of a nature which could admit of addition by Cloaths, those she then wore (one thought) would have increast hers. I must ingeniously confess, that coming from Death into so much brightness I fancy'd my self in those Plains, where our Learned Men make us believe we shall dwell after this Life; and I dare boldly af­firm, if we believ'd so much real felicity there, as I then resented, that place would be better inhabited than it is. I shall beseech you, said Izadora, (interrupting him, and speaking to Spartacus) to remember the acknowledgement he makes of his judgement being troubl'd, that what unmerited raptures he delivers of me, you may attribute them to their true cause, and not to that unto which he ascribes them. Then ad­dressing himself unto Perolla (with a little smile) she told him, If the use you make of my permission to tell part of our Adventures, be on­ly thus to abuse your friend, I shall immediately recall it, and rather elect to injure our Story by my relation, than suffer those blushes which your partiality will still create. Madam (said Spartacus) you are so far above flattery, that whilst your generous Lover praises you all he can, you need apprehend nothing, but that he will come short of Truth. To which Perolla answer'd, (with a look that spoke his doubts, whether, what Spartacus had said, proceeded from his Justice, or a more dange­rous Cause) you have (Sir) in this, as fully declar'd my opinion, as if we had but one Heart, and that too inspir'd with the same beauty, which is so accomplisht, that if Izadora will forgive me all faults which detract too much from her, I shall not need her pardon for those of a contrary nature. Spartacus by a little redness, testified the construction he made of Perolla's first words, but the apprehension of being deceiv'd in his opi­nion, and the resolution he had taken up, of soon suppressing all suspiti­ons of that quality, made him continue silent, which invited Izadora's Servant to prosecute what he had begun. Since (said he) my want of ex­pressions for so transcendent an object, and her commands do both bind me from giving you a character of that by words, which your Eyes are bet­ter able to perform; I will onely acquaint you, That though I remain'd a while without speaking, yet it proceeded not from any new fits of faint­ing, but from having all my faculties employ'd, to receive those flames she then shot into me; and truly I found the fire so pleasing, and so just, that I made not any excuse for introducing it in the room of that Heart, I had till then preserv'd for the fair Amazora, the difference betwixt them being so great, that could I have suspended my Election, I should have concluded my Judgement, as dead as the first object of my Passion. To be brief, never Lover made more haste to fruition, than I to divest my self of liberty; and never Slave receiv'd his freedom with more joy than I resign'd up mine. But whilst I was in these first extasies, Izadora, who mis-interpreted my silence, ask'd me whether I had a mind to take any rest, for if I had, she would withdraw her self, Madam (I reply'd) if you have a mind I shall take any, I must derive it from your Presence, and not from your Absence, since the latter will be so far from giving me any ease, that it will divest me of all. Truly Sir (she answer'd) the condition you are in, methinks, may well dispence with civilities, and [Page 117] your wounds are too dangerous to neglect (out of a compliment) any thing which may conduce to their recovery. If you mean (I reply'd) those wounds I receiv'd in the Street, they are too inconsiderable to purchase their ease by your absence: but if you intend those which are given me since I came into this Chamber, I must then confess, I would decline nothing, which might any way lessen their pain, or advance their recovery; but I find by experiment, that their nature is to be least troublesome, when the fair Enemy that made them, is visible. I had not ended speaking, when I perceiv'd all Izadora's face cover'd with blushes, and her Eyes arm'd with so majestick a Fire, that I almost repented the disclosing of what I could not possibly have longer silenc'd; but to disguise her disorder, she told me, I hope you have receiv'd no wounds since you came into this place, if you have, I dare assure you they were given without design. Alas Madam (I reply'd) I am then the more unfortunate, and that which you apply for a les­sening, is an increase of my trouble, for my condition is so singular, that whereas in other cases, to hurt without design, is hardly an of­fence, in mine the contrary, is the greatest that can befall me. But yet I may find some satisfaction, since custom enjoyns, wheresoever any wounds are receiv'd, without an intention of giving them, that the per­son which gave them as a mark of innocency, should endeavour their cure, if it lyes in the givers power; permit me then to beg this cu­stomary Tryal of the truth of your words, which is not called in que­stion by me, but by my happiness. I esteem (answered Izadora) the rule you speak of so just, that were it I, which have hurt you, and that you shew me the wound, and prove your recovery in my power, I would oblige my self to be your Physitian. Alas Madam (I answer'd) the wound is in my Heart, and therefore not to be seen, but with the eyes of faith, but if my assurance will not convince you of its reality, the knowledge you have of your own Beauties, will doubtless effect it. I am glad (reply'd Izadora) that your hurt being in a mortal place, you are yet so well, which gives me some hope that the pain of your last wound, is rather in imagination than reality: but if it be internal, as you alledge, I dare not undertake to be your Chyrurgeon, for to discover the place where you say your wound is, I must make a greater, than I am confi­dent I shall find there. Though indeed, replyes of this nature are not very pleasing in themselves, yet it was no small satisfaction to me, for from them I flatteringly referr'd, if she had a design of declining my Flame, I had spoken enough to acquaint her with it, and conse­quently given her a rise to have mention'd her aversion from it, but her imposing on my Words a meaning, which indeed they could not well bear, and the troubling her self for their mis-construction, afford­ed me some hope, that they were not absolutely unpardonable. gods! what extasies of joy did possess me, whilst I had that belief? and how I blest my wounds, that were the happy cause of so pleasing (though imaginary) a Felicity? But (alas) this was onely a capriciousness of Fortune, who gave me a taste of Happiness, that the subsequent fear might be the more intollerable: for the fair Izadora had forgot to ask of Blacius my Name, which she acquainted me with, and which I look'd up­on, as her desire of knowing it. This made me tell her, Madam, had you had that curiosity whilst your Father was here, he could not have sa­tisfied it: some important causes ty'd me to a concealment of it, nei­ther can your knowing it, be any way advantageous to your service, [Page 104]could I imagine it were, did the discovery bring more danger on me than cowards fancy, I would embrace them all with raptures of joy; yet per­haps my life and sword may be more fortunate than my name by pro­ving capable of serving you, if they be, I shall esteem both of them too gloriously employ'd: And truly (Madam) the little desire I had to be known, or continue long in this Town made me not inquisitive of your Fathers, but since I find my felicity or misery depends upon one that is of his Family, I shall humbly beg to be acquainted with it, and esteem it a high obligation if at least my curiosity may not prove prejudicial to him. Since (reply'd Izadora) you assure me, that my informing you of it will oblige you, I am confident the concealment cannot be of more consequence than the disclosure; and it is but reason that you should know who is your debtor, his name is Blacius, How Madam (I hastily reply'd) Blacius? the mortal Enemy of Pacuvius? Yes (said Izadora) that Blacius is my Father, and he who you so lately oblig'd? and my name Izadora. Ah Madam (I cry'd out, fetching a deep sigh) what is it that you have told me? The fair Izadora and I were so perplext, she at my exclaiming, and I at her information, that for a long while we both continu'd in silence; which at last she interrupted by desiring to know from whence my disorder proceeded, Alas, Madam (I reply'd) The great friendship I have contracted with Perolla (Pacuvius's son) is the cause of my trouble; how can I but deplore his misfortune in having you for his enemy; where your continuing so will (I fear) prove as great an inju­ry to his felicity as I apprehend the contrary will be to your extraction. If (said Izadora) you are so intimately acquainted with Perolla, I be­seech you inform me whether all those praises that are given him proceed from justice or partiality, Truly Madam (I reply'd) the knowing of him perfectly makes me unfit to resolve your question, for we were so much one, and had both so much the same Soul, that I plac'd the self same judgement on his actions which he himself did; and therefore you might aswell hope to be satisfied of Perolla from Perolla, as by enquiring any thing of him from me; but this I dare affirm, that had he once the hap­piness I now have, he would have too the same inclinations; and if my passion possest him, after seeing so much Beauty, it would be of contra­ry nature to what has been hitherto common to his Family. You must excuse me (said Izadora) if I believe he would prefer his duty before any other consideration, but I would not a little rejoyce at the contra­ry; for since his hatred to our Family is his crime, I would have his love to one of it prove his punishment. Ah, Madam (I reply'd) are you then determin'd to be cruel? Must Perolla have so hard a Fate, that be­cause his birth was unhappy, his life must be so too? Shall his misfortune in being Pacuvius's son be esteem'd his fault; and, shall a Sin he derives from his Father be more prevalent to create your hatred, than the ser­vice he has pay'd Blacius be to produce a contrary effect? My Passion in this discourse transported me so far, that Izadora interrupted me by say­ing. The words which you now speak (Sir) would induce me to believe that you are Perolla rather than his friend. Yes Madam (I reply'd, cast­ing down my Eyes, and trembling all over) I do confess I am Perolla, and though at first I design'd not to acquaint you who I was, till my actions had in some degree qualifi'd your aversion to my blood; yet I find you have so transcendent an influence over me, that I could no more conceal my Name than my Passion. This overture gives you power equal to your desire of being reveng'd on our unfortunate Family. But remem­ber [Page 119] (fair Izadora) that 'tis cruelty not justice, to ruine one who is so far from resisting that he yields to your mercy. Whilst I was making this declaration, I could plainly read the trouble of her mind in her looks; sometimes methought they inclin'd to mercy, and then instantly they ap­pear'd the contrary; at last my suspence vanish'd by Izadora's saying, I could gladly wish I had continu'd still in ignorance of your condition, since my knowledge of it reduces me either to betray Blacius, or Perolla, by discovering or concealing him. Madam (I reply'd) he keeping of my name secret is not of much importance, for if you now receive my Flame I shall embrace all dangers, and care not who knows me when I bear the glorious title of Izadora's Servant: and if you reject it, 'twill be an obli­gation to let your Father know who I am, since I may hope from his re­sentments and hatred that cure my deplorable condition will so abun­dantly want. Izadora (as she since assur'd me) was offended that I had the confidence in so short a time to desire an acception of my affection [...] that she answer'd me briskly; Pacuvius's son, who is an enemy to our Fa­mily, must not here expect to be cur'd of any other wounds than those he receiv'd in defending the chief of it; and though your presumption merits my highest revenge, yet the consideration of what you have done for Blacius. will make me preserve your life in not disclosing who you are. She had no sooner done speaking, but she rose up, and was going out of my Chamber, when I cry'd out to her, Stay, fair Izadora, and see my life depends not on your silence, but on your approving my passion, which though you have so cruelly rejected, yet you shall find I have so much a higher concernment for all your interests than my own, that I will wash away in my Blood my presumption and unfortunate extraction; and since you have declar'd Perolla to be your Enemy, you shall perceive I will use him at that rate. Izadora at these passionate expressions turn'd about again; but when she saw me pulling off my plaisters, and tearing my wounds, she ran to my Bed-side, and falling on her knees, with a throng of sighs and tears she begg'd me not to be my own executioner; and if any words she had spoken were the unfortunate cause of so fatal an ef­fect, she would recall them.

What need I tell you more (generous Spartacus) than that my despair was the way to my felicity, and that my design of killing my self pre­serv'd my life by obtaining the fair Izadora's permission of making my addresses to her. But to lessen this excess of joy, I suspected for a while, that my apprehension of being unfortunate had like to have made me really so; and the way I had chosen to end my misery had almost created it; for in my despair I had so increast the danger of my wounds, by using them as I thought my condition then requir'd, that though the Chirur­gions came hastily to bind them up, yet they could not undertake for my life, till they saw what operation that dressing would have, and to free me from all noise, that I might take a little sleep, Izadora was de­sir'd to withdraw, which before she did, she came to my Bed-side, and told me softly, I hope what I have already done, has divested you of all thoughts of violence on your life, if it has not, remember that you cannot make any attempts against it; but I shall consider them as offer'd at mine. Madam (I reply▪d, kissing her hand with transports) what you have done, and what you have spoken, shall make me cherish as much as even now I did detest it, and since 'tis so glorious to merit your care, you cannot suspect it shall be deny'd mine. She was not long gone out of my Chamber, when Blacius came home; and coming to see me, he [Page 120] was inform'd my condition was such, that his visit would rather prove [...] trouble than a civility, which made him defer his design; but he went di­rectly to Izadora's Chamber, to learn the cause of my disorder; for he was told she had not stirr'd out of mine since his going abroad; and that no other had been witness of my actions. His fair daughter was somewhat perplex'd at the question; but she assur'd him, to the best of her obser­vation, it proceeded from a sudden distemper, wherein she told him the truth, and yet conceal'd it from him. The next morning the Chirurgions found the wounds of my Body (which held a strict sympathy with those of my Mind) so hopeful, that Blacius was present when they were drest, ex­prest an infinite satisfaction; and indeed entertain'd me with such tran­scendent care and civility, that had I ow'd my usage to his knowledge, and not to his ignorance of me, I had been in a felicity worthy of en­vy. But his affairs calling him away, his place was supply'd by Izado­ra; who acquainted me, that those Murtherers I had kill'd, had been for certain hir'd by Pacuvius to make away Blacius, and that one of them (as he lay weltring in his Blood) confest it to him, which was the cause of his going out that night so late, that the examinations might have been taken by one of the Magistrates, but at their coming, the party was found dead. Ah Madam (I reply'd) how I apprehend my Fathers attempts will be as cruel to his own son as the performance would have prov'd to his Enemy, and that what he intended for the destruction of Blacius will cause Perolla's; for it is but just, that the daughter should right the Father on the Son of his mortallest Enemy, especially since she has the power, and that Pacuvius's affe­ction for me (as he has often declar'd) is greater than that he has for himself and consequently to afflict Perolla is the most sensible way of being re­veng'd on his Father; neither can I expect a better Fate, unless Izado­ra's Goodness be as great as my Passion. I shall always (she said) know how to distinguish between the guilty and the innocent; and therefore will not involve the Son in the Fathers Crime, especially since the gallantry of the former hinder'd the acted sin of the latter. Oh Madam (I answer'd) How great were my felicity would Blacius practice the same goodness. You need not doubt (she reply'd) in this last action, where your Blood testifies your innocence; but for his antient hatred, I fear his resentments. Alass (I cry'd out) I never have those thoughts but I tremble, and would it might please the gods as the blood I have spent already has purchast his esteem, so that the remainder were shed to continue it after his knowledge of my condition. For I should think my death glorious, could it wipe away the infelicity of my Birth, and count it a greater happiness to dye with the title of your Fa­milies Friend, than to live in the contrary misfortune. The fair Iza­dora perceiving how I afflicted my self with those sad impressions, told me, What I have already done may in some sort repress your fears, nei­ther is despair pardonable but where impossibilities turn it into reason, a generous courage as Perolla's should not antedate his troubles, for sometimes our apprehensions make us miserable when our Fates de­sign the contrary. Those (I reply'd) which did flatter me would of­ten publish I had a courage above misfortunes, and I may justly say, in all those dangers I have yet undergone, I never resented any thing of fear, but what disasters my hard Stars impos'd on me, I found my consolation and security in my resolution; yet in my present conditi­on, whether my fears proceed from some prescience of my ruine, or from a diffidence of so great a felicity I know not, but this I am certain of [Page 121] that I find something within, which never until now I entertain'd. I con­fess, (said the fair Izadora) when I think upon Blacius's hatred to your Family, I have some little tremblings which I can hardly suppress; but when I consider the services you have paid him, and those eminent qua­lities you possess, I find no other way for the questioning your content, than by doing the like, as well to my Fathers judgement as gratitude, Madam, (I reply'd) I have nothing in me, nor have nothing for him which might so much raise my ambition: but since you do not onely command me to silence my fears, but alledge I have no cause to continue them, I will obey you, since 'tis as impossible for me to erre whilst I do so, as not to erre whilst I do not so. 'Twas with such pleasing discourses as these that I past some days, and 'twas well for the torment of my wounds, for no other charm had been of sufficient force to moderate their pain. At last, Fortune began to cloud this little Sun-shine, for Izadora under­stood from a friend of hers, that a great disorder was in Pacuvius's house, by the arrival of a servant of mine (whom I would not permit to come into Salapia with me, but had order'd him to follow, lest I might be the likelier discover'd.) This servant assur'd my Father, that I was come be­fore him alone into the Town, and that crossing a street upon the break of day, he had found my Horse, and observed much Bloud had been there spilt, but as for his Master, he could learn no news of him. This Lady was one which had free access into both our Families, and having then received some high disgust in Pacuvius's, told this secret to the fair Iza­dora, in expectation that it might come to Blacius's knowledge, whose re­venge she easily fancy'd would induce him to make it publick, which would at least have ruin'd me, if not my Father, for entertaining and concealing me, but she knew not, that she told this news to one that was better acqainted with the particulars of it than her self, and who was not a little concern'd in this unfortunate life. But Izadora, (after her de­parture) came, and not onely acquainted me with this intelligence, but advis'd me to make my self known to Blacius, for since the business had already so much vent, if he came to learn it any other way, it might be lookt upon at a rate that would extreamly aggravate his former hatred. I must truly confess, had this advice proceeded from any other, I should have found a strong opposal in my obedience; but she had such an Ascendent over me, that in all her commands, how difficult soever they were in themselves, I did not onely find Reason, but Power to obey them; and in this injunction of hers, I had no sooner taken up my re­solution, than I was furnisht with an opportunity to put it in practice; For Blacius, who was always present at the dressing of my wounds, was so sensible of the torment I endur'd, that he could not retain some drops from stealing out of his Eyes, and as soon as the Chirurgeons were gone, he embrac'd me, and said, If the gods (generous stranger) would grant a power of transferring pain upon him that is most desirous of it, you should quickly then resent none, but what your goodness for my suffer­ings could produce. Were that priviledge (I answer'd) bestow'd upon me, my condition would not be at all improv'd, for that rule would con­tinue the sufferings where they are already; neither could they be remov'd as you desire, without doubling my trouble, by afflicting me in that which I am more concern'd in, than in my self. You are (reply'd Blacius) so obliging, both in action and expression, that there is no way of in­creasing my debt, but by acquainting how I may pay some part of it. When you speak (I reply'd) of being indebted to me, you do certain­ly [Page 122] mean to my Desires, and not my Actions, but because you are pleas'd to stile the effects of my Duty, Obligations, I will not oppose that be­lief, since to have rais'd it, is onely my ambition, but is besides, ex­ceeding necessary towards the obtaining of a request I have to make to you; a request of so strange a property, that the denial of it once, will make me uncapable of ever asking it again, and the granting of it, will never let me stand in need of asking any other. If (said Blacius with some impatiency) the granting this desire be in my power, why do you not name it? since to confer on you a concession of this qua­lity and operation, will be a greater favour to the giver, than it can be to the Receiver. 'Tis, Sir (I reply'd) that you would pardon my un­happy extraction, and not esteem, that my fault, which is my misfortune. An Extraction ( Blacius answered) which has produced so much gallan­try, cannot be low or inconsiderable, or if it be so in its self, your Vir­tue will change it into the contrary, but (he continu'd) I cannot fancy why the granting of what you ask, can work so powerful an effect, as even now you mention'd. Alas, Sir, (I reply'd) you mistake my mean­ing, for I am born in a Family that is considerable enough, both for An­tiquity, Honour, and Wealth, and indeed, has no other effect or unhap­piness, but what is caus'd by your aversion to it: I fear, after this Decla­ration, you can no longer doubt, but 'tis Pacuvius's I intend, whose unfortunate Son I am. Is this (said Blacius, starting) to try how far my gratitude can extend, or else is it a real truth? 'Tis the latter (I answer'd) and though I apprehend by what I observe, that this discovery will prove my ruine, yet I had rather derive it from my Extraction, which is a crime I could not avoid, than by deluding you, which is a voluntary sin, and consequently might justly authorize your hatred. Blacius having cast up­on me a hundred furious looks, at last told me; You are then Pacuvius's Son. Oh unjust Fates! must I owe my life to a cause which makes me detest it? and must my misery be so great, that to have dy'd by the hands of murtherers, hir'd by my enemy too, had been a happi­ness? Is Life left me onely to know, that not to have been kill'd, was a misfortune? Then folding his Arms one within the other, he fetch'd, (with great steps) four or five turns about the Chamber and on a sudden, striking one of his Hands upon his Breast, he continu'd, No, no, I am not so wretched as my Passion would perswade me, for Pacuvius de­sign was not only defeated, but was defeated by his Son: and Perolla by receiving wounds in this Quarrel, wounds his Father, who cannot consider the means, why his ends have fail'd, but the knowledge of the former will increase the misery of the latter, neither can I justly complain, when my mortal'st Enemy, instead of a pleasing revenge, embraces a double affliction: besides, after knowledge of what Perolla has done, he must either hate or love him, if the former, the intricacy is both admi­rable and obliging, for the self-same action makes the Son preserve an Enemy, and loose a Friend, and the Father loose his revenge upon his ad­versary, and his affection to his Son: If the latter, his being in a place which forbids his visits and assistants, will be no small trouble, and the doubts that I will take away Perolla's life will be Pacuvius's torment whilst he imagines his Son is living, and the knowledge when he is not so, will continue it after he is dead; and since he lives more in Perolla than in himself, his unequall'd treachery will justify my killing the most of him that I can. After many such strange reasonings as these, he drew out a Ponyard, and came towards me, to act what he had determin'd: I must [Page 123] confess I was somewhat startled at this proceeding, but when I consider'd the averseness of his nature was such, that probably I could never obtain his consent of possessing his excellent Daughter, I had no more the de­sire than the force to resist him, and therefore, just as he came to the Bed-side, I uncover'd my self, and shewing him my naked Breast, I told him, Here (Sir) this is the place you aim at, and therefore it shall not be defended by me, I am guilty, because you think me so, and since I am so miserable as to be hated by you, that death which you threaten me with, will be a justice as to your revenge, and a charity as to my con­dition. That action and those few words produced a strange effect, for up­on a suddain his high disorders began to lessen, his Face to dispel those clouds which darkn'd it; and at length fetching a sigh from the bottom of his Breast, he declar'd some expressions to this sence: What, shall an intentional injury from Pacuvius, be more prevalent with thee, than a real obligation from Perolla? shall the First-fruits of that life which thou holdest from his generosity, be to take away his, which has given thee thine? shall he be murther'd, because he hinder'd thee from being so? and shall the residue of his Bloud be spilt by thee, when all he has already lost, was shed for thee? besides, thou deriv'st the advantage thou hast now over him from his protection, for had it not been for that, thy death had taken from thee the Will and the Power of Revenge: Yes (he continu'd, addressing himself to me, and sheathing his Ponyard) you shall live Perolla, not only free from any attempt of mine, but secure­ly also, from my acquainting Hannibal who you are, from whose resent­ment you might expect as hard a destiny as from Blacius's, but the ser­vices you have done the Romans, and me in particular, bind up my Hands. There is (I reply'd) a third way of destroying me, as certain as those two you have exempted me from, and that (Sir) is the denial of my first request, which to disswade you from, I may truly prosess, that all that bloud hated you, was spilt for you, for which I bless my for­tune, that made me perform what was good by losing that which is ill. All my new Bloud I have bred up with such firm inclinations for you, that had it deriv'd its original from your self, it could not be more at your devotion: I must acknowledge too the justice of the gods in ma­king me receive those wounds which Pacuvius intended for you, and to divert and reclaim him from such criminal designes, I shall make it my constant Prayers, that they may all have the fate which this had, and that by my sufferings I might prevent all those that are intended you▪ Blacius at these assurances, wholly banisht those cruel looks, which made me so much suspect my fate, and with an obliging accent, conjur'd me to tell him, what use I could make of his condescending to my desire. I should then (I reply'd) by a continual succession of services have some hopes to obtain your permission of making my addresses to the fair Iza­dora. (This spoke unadvisedly, having flatter'd my self into a belief, that in the temper Blacius was in, I might procure some engagement which his generosity (though he should afterwards repent) would not permit him to recall: but alas! I soon found my expectation deceiv'd, for after this declaration, in an instant he arm'd himself again with that severe countenance he so late had laid aside, and with a Tone, as cruel as his words, he told me, Is Izadora then the object of your design? 'tis very like indeed, I should present her to his Son that executed her Uncle, would have murther'd his Father, and who to satisfy a private malice has given up his Countrey to the Enemies of it. These truly are [Page 124] obligations to court a Mistriss with. Sir (I reply'd, somewhat mov'd) you still reproach me with anothers crime, if Magins was put to death to please Hannibal, I made use of it in Pettely to raise him enemies: If Blacius life was attempted, I preserv'd it by the hazard of my own: and if Capua was deliver'd up to the Carthagineans, I became (to him that did it) from a Son, an Enemy, and so wedded my Countreys quar­rel, that thereby Hannibal lost more Men, than perhaps the taking that great City would have cost him. I must confess (reply'd Blacius) you have done much for me, and for the Romans, and upon both those scores you have receiv'd no unfruitful return, since for those services you did our Empire, I preserve you (not without an eminent hazard) from the knowledge of the enemies of it: and for what you have done my par­ticular, I suspend those resentments which your Fathers treachery highly invites me to execute, and because my debt to you is a Life, (as I think nothing can be a sufficient payment, but an obligation of the same nature) so after your receiving that satisfaction, I can be no longer esteem'd in­debted to you. Sir, (I answer'd) if you will tye your self to what your last words now profest, I shall as highly approve of your proceeding, as of my own happiness, but your silencing of your own resentments, and the concealing me from the Carthagineans is no preservation, unless you permit me also to be a servant to the fair Izadora: That is the onely means to save my life, and without it, all the other you can mention, will be rather miseries than favours: neither can a man say, that he preserves his Enemies life, because he exempts him from the Sword or Poyson, if at last he makes him dyesome other way: what you have promis'd, only frees me from two ways of ruine, to cast me into a third, that is more cer­tain and painful than either: No, no, Sir (I continu'd) if you banish me from Izadora, the highest effects of yours or Hannibal's hatred will be pleasing, and cut me from those languishing torments your refusal will cre­ate. I have already told you (said Blacius) that you must not expect Izadora, who I will sooner marry to her Grave, than to any enemy of your Family; but because you shall have no occasion of condemning me of cru­elty, I will truly state those obligations you pretend to have conferr'd on me, and those I have really plac'd on you. I acknowledge you sav'd my life, and `tis likely I deriv'd that obligation from your ignorance, but I did preserve yours after my knowledge of you; had you the invi­tations of oppressed innocency to procure me your assistance; I had a just revenge to disswade me from pardoning you, and yet did it; The glory of your action was your reward, but the mercy of mine, may pro­bably prove my punishment: besides, what you did for me, was no more favour than to draw me out of a danger, wherein you had cast me, for I had not needed the assistance of one of your Family, had not the trea­chery of the chief of it, been the occasion; so that you can never mention the obligation you did me, without discovering your Fathers infamy. As you sav'd me from murthering, so you hindr'd Pacuvius from being a murtherer. You preserv'd my life from being a sacrifice to violence, but by it you hinder'd your Fathers from being one to Ju­stice, and whilst you onely defeated him of his revenge, you exempted him both from the guilt and punishment of of it: so that you have oblig'd Pacuvius more than me. And since you pleaded that anothers crime ought not to be accounted yours; so your Virtues ought not to be attributed to your Family, to which I am so irreconcileable an Enemy, that it lies not in the power of any one of it, to reconcile me to it. No, [Page 125] young man (he continu'd) after what I have done, you cannot condemn me of ingratitude, without practising your self, what you would blame in me. Sir (I reply'd) though I believe I could answer all your objecti­ons, yet the means I must take to clear those already mentioned, will create a greater than any I shall confute, which is my disputing against you, but if all those arguments you use, be to prove your denying me Izadora, is not an effect of your ingratitude, but your justice, I will abun­dantly confess it, and declare, besides, if you fancy otherwise, you do as great a wrong to me, as you do to my Felicity, in refusing my passi­onate desires. I had no sooner ended those words, but that Blacius calling the fair Izadora (who had been present at all this dispute, and in whose face you might have known the several tempers of it) told her, I am glad Perolla acknowledges my depriving him of his happiness is an action of Justice, I hope then no man can condemn my revenge, when Justice con­curs with my inclination to confer it on me; I do therefore ( Izadora) conjure thee, by whose wrongs his Family has done ours, by thy Uncle Magius Bloud, which Pacuvius sacrific'd to his hatred, by thy Fathers life, which he would have destroyed upon the same score, and by the glory of so sitting a revenge, scorn his Flame, and let him find in thy hatred, the punishment of his Fathers to all thy Family. At this cruel command the perfect Izadora became white as innocence, and after her disorder was a little past, casting down her eyes to the ground, she thus reply'd. Alas (Sir) your commands are come too late, for before I knew who he was, I gave him so large at Empire over me, that 'tis impossible to recall it; neither when I consider him bath'd in bloud for your preserva­tion, rejoycing at his wounds, because they hinder'd you from any that were dangerous, losing his Father to preserve his Fathers enemy, and when you assur'd me you would judge of my affection to you by that I should pay him, I cannot repent what I have done, my friendship for Perolla, is deriv'd from my obedience to you, and my gratitude to him; who can then condemn a production from such noble causes? beside, he has no­thing that's enemy to us but his name, his actions are not, for by them I enjoy a Father. Can you then have so low an opinion of my resentments, as to believe any consideration can make me hate the giver of so great a blessing? if then my affection for him be a sin, you will, I hope, pardon it by the knowledge of what occasions it. I do therefore (Sir) conjure you, by that precious life you owe his gallantry, by the Bloud of Magius, he has so generously reveng'd, by those services he has paid our Empire, and by the glory you will purchase by vanquishing your Enemy (as you term him) without revenge; permit Perolla to divest you of that pre­judicate opinion you have for all his Family, or to assume a confidence by his repeated services, to remove that high aversion you have for his un­fortunate extraction. Though these words in themselves were strangely moving, yet they were deliver'd with an action and tone so compassionate and ravishing, that no heart, which had not been harder than cruelty it self, could have resisted them. But alas, they were so far from produ­cing any good effects, that Blacius with a look, that had all things of hor­rid in it, told her, are you then so desirous to displease me, that to effect it, you will become a friend to your Fathers enemy, that you may be­come an enemy to him? will you ruine my happiness, to create Perolla's? and will you shew me the way to be reveng'd on his cruel Family, and then hinder me from acting it? must that which deprives me of my re­venge, deprive me of my Daughter too? must the cause why I do not [Page 126] punish my Enemy, be as great a misfortune to me, as that is which he a­voids? and to increase my trouble, must your affection and duty to me (which were my highest felicity) be the occasion of my proportionate misery? Ah Izadora (he continu'd, for I will no longer call you Daugh­ter) will you then bestow your self upon this Perolla, when even now he declar'd, that to be deny'd you was just? do you love injustice so well, that in one action you will be unjust to Blacius, and to his Enemies? and will you make such haste to pay a debt that is not due, by declining one that is? Go barbarous Maid, unworthy of my Care (as well as Bloud) I will inflict on thee no greater punishment, than the granting thy desires, for when thy reason, or his embraces, has banisht or quencht thy impi­ous flame, thou wilt know and deplore thy sin, in preferring a Lover be­fore a Father. Go then, but for ever, and mayst thou never know what happiness is, but avoid it. Finishing these words, he went out of the Chamber, and left us in a perplexity, as great as his disorders; But before I could speak to the fair cause of them, he return'd again, and thus con­tinu'd his discourse to his excellent Daughter. No no, I have thought better on't, for to cross a desire, though it be an ill one, is a revenge, and 'tis upon that score you shall never see Perolla more, for whom, if you continue your passion, you shall find from my justice (in separa­ting you) as severe an affliction, as I can resent from your want of Du­ty by your union. Do not think to divest me from this determination, for all your Tears and Prayers, will be as fruitless for your Lover, as mine to you were against him. (Then addressing himself to me, he said) And thou (cruel stranger) which by saving my life, hast made it my torment, and for my unfortunate care in bringing thee here to heal thy wounds, hast created as much misery in my Family, as there had been joy in thine had thy Father murthered me, remember as soon as my Chirurgeons tell thee thou art fit to travel, that thou quit my House, for if thou stayest a minute longer, by that quiet thou hast rob'd me of, I'll sacrifice thy life unto my just resentments. Then thrusting the fair Izadora out before him, he went away in a rage, almost equal to mine at that inhumane action. I will not tell you (said Perolla to Spartacus) all those expressions my grief and anger extorted from me, whose greatness you may in some sort guess, when I assure you I was so blinded with rage, that I made many criminal designs against his Life, which was so much an Enemy to mine, and had not my weakness hindred me, I had perhaps attempted that, which if performed, had made me worthy of all those miseries his hate has inflicted on me. But after this first heat was qualified, the conside­ration that he was Izadora's Father, banisht those criminal resolutions, and struck me with so deep a grief, that my repentance had like to have proved his revenge. But (to be brief) Strato (for so was my Servant called, that follow'd me into Salapia) never left inquiring after me, till by his diligence, he had gotten some suspitions, that 'twas I which had sa­ved Blacius, and was carried by him into his House; therefore to satisfy himself, by a considerable Present, he obtained leave from one of my Chirurgeons, to attend him as his servant, where when my wounds were next drest, he discovered what he sought, and himself to me. I was not a little over-joyed, by the finding out so faithful a Servant, and having acquainted him with those several accidents which had be fallen me since our [...]eparation, I enjoyned him to try if he could possibly learn some way how I might see Izadora, or convey a Letter to her; but though his industry left nothing unessay'd, yet it proved absolutely fruitless, [Page 127] for Blacius had so faithful and strict a Watch about her, that 'twas impos­sible to corrupt or deceive them. But to increase the misery I then groan­ed under, Strato (one day) told me, Pacuvius had discovered where my retreat was, and how I endangered my own Life to preserve his Ene­mies, with which he was so inraged, that he commanded him to tell me as I had divested my self of all duty to him, so he had done the like of all affection to me, and that if I had any reliques of respect for him, I should shew it, by never coming into his sight again: he further told me, that Pacuvius had once determined to acquaint Hannibal, how Blacius conceal­ed his Enemy, but that the fear of my ruine which would be involved in Blacius's had restrained him. You may well believe, that this was no small accession to my trouble, and truly I think had not I so great a sup­port as my belief of Izadora's affection and constancy, I had sunk under the weight of my misfortunes. At last, through the great care Blacius Servants had of me, whether it proceeded from his generosity, to hasten the regaining of that health I had lost from him, or from his revenge to ba­nish me the sooner from being near Izadora: in spight of the indisposi­tion of my mind, that fatal day came, wherein the Chyrurgeons told me, I might undertake a journey without any pain or danger, O how I curst their skill that separated me from my desires! and how much more I had valued their Ignorance than their Art. Before I went away, I sent Strato to Blacius, to know if he would permit me to wait on him, and make him those retributions which his care for my recovery merited; but he sent me word, my abesence more than my presence, would better discharge any debt I pretended to owe him, and that I could not more oblige him, than by a sudden departure from that House, which I had flung into so many disorders. I obeyed this cruel Message, and that night (for I durst not stir by day, lest I might have been discovered) I quitted Blacius's House, neither did I visit Pacuvius, who I was willing should see I would disobey him in nothing, since I did it not in an injunction so opposite to my duty and inclination. I had not retired an hour in a friends House, when I called Strato to me, and told him, I was resolv'd before I left Sa­lapia, to see the fair Izadora, which I fancied could not be very difficult, since she lay (for the coolness of the Lodging, it being then Summer) in a lower Chamber next the Garden. Strato, who consider'd my safety above my satisfaction, earnestly (though vainly) disswaded me from it, there­fore we went silently to the Garden door, which answered on a by-lane, then having pickt the lock, I got in, and was conducted by Strato to that window, where he assur'd me Izadora lay, I commanded him then to re­turn, and give me warning, if he should discover any thing worthy my knowledge: he was no sooner gone, but I walkt softly to the place he directed me to, lest some company might have been with her, but as the gods would have it, she was all alone (having retired her self into her Closet which was joyning to her Chamber) there looking in, I discover­ed her by the light of a small Taper, sitting on a Chair, leaning her Cheek upon one hand, and wiping her Tears off with the other; I was amazed to [...]ind her in such a posture, but suddenly my wonder was turned in­to joy (at least as much as I was capable of, when she was so drown'd in sorrow) finding by her discourse, that I was the object of hers. Alas (she said, accompanying her words with a heavy sigh) perhaps at this instant that I onely but deplore Perolla's absence, I may have cause to lament his death, through Blacius's cruelty, by acting himself his revenge, or by gi­ving Ha [...]nibal the means to do it. Wretched Izadora! must the not know­ing [Page 128] whether thou art miserable make thy misery? and must thy doubts of being unfortunate, render thee really so? No, no; I fear they are not on­ly bare suspitions make me thus unhappy, but that my eyes weep by Prophecy, what they must shortly by Evidence.

I must confess, said Perolla, though it were a crime thus to intrench up­on her retirement, yet I found in that fin, a more obliging joy, than I could in the reward of Virtue; and doubtless, I had longer continued my transgression, had I not thought it a greater to leave her in a sadness I could so soon remove: Therefore making a little noise, I told her, Ma­dam, if your apprehensions for Perolla be the blest and sad cause of your Tears, you may now silence them, since he is in a condition of appre­hending nothing but your disdain. Never, to my remembrance, did I see so strange a surprize as those words were to that excellent Beauty to whom they were spoken, who, though she a long time nicely consi­der'd me, yet could she not fancy I was Perolla, for her Father (to destroy that friendship she honour'd me with) had given her so much cause to despair for my life, that her sense could not convince her belief I was li­ving; but at length her disorder was so far supprest, tht coming to the window she askt me softly, whether I was really what I pretended to be? and if I were, what made me so evidently endanger my life, and conse­quently hers? Madam (I reply'd) I am the happy Perolla (that which I have heard since I came to this place, makes me assume that Title) and I am come to know how you will dispose of a life, which you are pleas'd to be so much concern'd in. You live then, gallant Perolla (she said) and Blacius, after all his threatenings, has preserv'd your life. No Ma­dam, I (answer'd) 'tis not Blacius, but Izadora which has done it; that glorious confession she made him in my favour, was the essential cause of it; all that Blacius did, was, that he kill'd me not, but 'twas his unequal'd Daughter give me my life by giving me that which makes me value it; and I should be more unworthy the gift, had the apprehension of any danger hindered me from acknowledging at her feet, that as I hold it by her, so I Will only preserve and employ it for her. If, said Izadora, you had given me so large an Empire over you, before this visit, I should have enjoyn'd you to trust my justice, in believing your goodness, ra­ther than thus hazard your safety for the expressing of it. Madam (I re­ply'd) I should more endanger it by going away without assuring you of this duty, than I do in the paying of it, for that might have ruin'd me in your good opinion, which I more fear than all that my Enemies can act against me. You are (she answer'd) so deeply fix'd in my esteem, that hardly any action of yours, much less one which hinder'd you from danger, can prejudice you in it. But fair Izadora (I reply'd) may not your Fa­thers hatred, my unfortunate extraction, and my own unworthiness, raise your justice to the suppression of your present mercy, and the ruine of my Felicity? Ah Perolla (she answer'd with a little blush) can you then suspect my constancy? Silence I beseech you all such doubts, for you need not fear I will commit a fault, in the which I shall find my punishment; neither can you believe I will prefer any other before you, without do­ing as great a wrong to my judgement as my happiness: but (she conti­nued) may not I ( Perolla) suspect, that Blacius's cruelty may induce you to withdraw your Passion from his Daughter? and that your revenge may be more predominant than your affection? Madam (I reply'd) I attest the gods, if my words have given you the least doubt, that I fear'd you would prove inconstant, they did not express my meaning: for if I [Page 129] have any suspition, 'tis not of your Virtue, but of my Felicity; and if I were jealous of your change, I am not so rude or partial to my self, as to call that your inconstancy, which would be but your justice; but if I had had any suspitions of that nature, what you have been pleas'd to say would make me rather cherish than condem them, since they are the cause of my receiving assurances of an affection, as far transcending my hope as my desert. As to those doubts you mention'd of your Fathers hatred raising any resentments in me; I attest the self-same powers I even now invok'd, that as long as I am blest with your esteem, I can be capa­ble neither of misfortune nor change; and though I have lost Pacuvius and Blacius, yet when I consider what I have thereby obtain'd, I shall ne­ver repent the purchase. We had certainly past the night away in so pleasing a conversation, had not Izadora's Woman interrupted it by knocking at the Closet-door, and telling her, That Blacius at his coming home (for he was then abroad) would doubtless visit her, and if he found her up at so unseasonable an hour, it might raise suspitions, which would hardly be supprest. This fatal summons I receiv'd with extream reluctan­cy; but Izadora, who knew the truth of it, and who apprehended my discovery; told me, 'twas time to retire, and having made me a thousand protestations of her constancy, she strictly forbad me any such hazard­ous visits, enjoyning me to go into the Roman Army, and endeavour there to get friends strong enough to suppress her Fathers aversion for me: Then having setled an address for our Letters, I kist her fair hands, and resign'd the Office of my words unto my Tears, which only assur'd her, how cruel I esteem'd that separation. 'Twas in this sort, Sir, (conti­nu'd Perolla) that we contracted an affection, which has cost us so many miseries, and which I never deplor'd, but only for that share the fair Iza­dora had in them; and though at this sad farewel I had abundant cause to be highly satisfied with her ambition'd friendship, yet I have always had a Genius so apt to torment me, that I found my misfortune in my hap­piness, the knowledge of her making my departure from her the more unsupportable.

Here Izadora (who feared that the Relation of her Servants Life might endanger it) put a stop to it by remembring him, that by their contract he was to acquaint Spartacus with no more than what had hap­pen'd in her Fathers House. Perolla with a look full of humility, acknow­ledg'd her care, and by his silence, gave her a rise, thus to prosecute their History.

PARTHENISSA.
THE FIRST PART.
BOOK V.

I Cannot resemble the greatness of that grief I resented for Perolla's departure to any thing more aptly than to my joy and fear before it; and though Blaciu's fu­ry could have inflicted no cruelty on him which I should not at least equally have participated, yet I may justly profess my apprehensions for him were more sen­sible than for my self, and that you may know they proceeded as much from my Reason as Affection, my Fa­ther had removed his Lodgings to those over mine, and had set such faithful and vigilant Centinels about me, that had not his then being abroad, and their unsual neglect both concurred for Perolla's safety, he might have fallen into troubles, the thoughts of which has a thousand times created mine; and he was no sooner retir'd than Blacius came in­to my Chamber, where, with many expressions of gladness he celebrated his Protectors remove, and enjoin'd me the like resentments for the same cause: but though disobedience to Parents be a Crime, yet when I con­sider'd the occasion of mine, I could not give it that Name; for I esteem'd the object of my affection so deserving, that I had no way so justly to merit my sufferings as by not resolutely avowing so pure and merito­rious a Friendship. But whilst I was thus persecuted by the Enemy of our affections, Perolla was persecuting him of our Empire. 'Twas he, who under Fabius and Marcellus recovered that Cassilinum by assualt which was lost my Famine: 'Twas he, that during Marcellus's sickness at Nola reconquer'd the Samnites, Lucalians, and Appulians, by the loss of 25000 of the Rebels and Affricans: In a word, 'Twas he perform'd such sublime Actions, that had I not known the Charms of his person and con­versation, I could not yet have resisted those of his Fame. The Winter, which succeeded this active Summer, Hannibal made Salapia his Head­quarters, and though he had endeavoured by a world of civilities to make a friend of Blacius (who Perolla, intent only on those accidents which re­lated to his Amours had omitted to acquaint you, was invited and per­swaded into this Town by the Carthaginians, after it was his) yet the mi­series of his Countrey, and Magius's Blood were so recent in his memory, that none of Hanniballs inticements could induce him to stifle his designs of revenge; in order to which, he made use of the Carth [...]ginians offer, but yet lived under his Power, only to destroy it. But the time of Fa­bius's Consulship being expired, the Senate, to testifie the value they plac'd upon his merit, elected his son to succeed him, and the Father, either [Page 131] to manifest the goodness of their choice, or to evince he believed who­ever they esteem'd fit to command in chief, he thought himself not too good to serve under, procured a Commission from the Senate, to be Lieu­tenant-General to his own Son. It was worthy observation when the Father came into the Camp, and the Son rode forth to meet him: Ele­ven of the 12 Lictors, which carried Rods and Axes before the Consul, suffer'd him in respect of his Age and Relations to pass by them on Horse­back, which was positively against the custom, and, which the Son per­ceiving, commanded the last of his Lictors to note it; who, thereupon bad the old Fabius to alight, and come to the Consul on foot, which he cheerfully did, and told him, 'Twas not son my neglect but my design, to make tryal whether you understood your self to be what you are.

I have related (said Izadora to my Prince) a particular, which though it has nothing of connexion to our story; yet being in that time exceeding­ly discours'd of, I hope 'twill procure your excuse. Spartacus having as­sur'd her that she had committed no fault but in thinking she had commit­ted one, begg'd her to prosecute those Adventures wherein he took so much interest and satisfaction. This young Fabius (she continu'd) was General of the Roman Army when Blacius had brought a design of deli­vering Salapia and Hannibal into the Senates Power, to so much per­fection, that there wanted onely as much time as the acting it would take up; The day which preceded that night, in which this Plot was to be executed, my Father, who had covertly drawn the Consul with some Forces near this Town, sent a Confident of his to advertise him, that at any hour he should appoint, he had so many Partizans at his devotion, as he could secure for him either the Samnite or the Brutian Gate, and that he de­sir'd to know which of them would be most commodious for his attempt.

This Agent returning about the dusk of the evening, unfortunately met with a Commander of the Carthagineans, whose gate and habit was so resembling unto Blacius's that blinded with that, belief, he took him aside, and told him, The Consul would not fail at midnight, and that the Sam­nite Gate would be most commodious. You may easily believe these words did as much surprize the Carthaginian, as the knowledge of this mi­serable error did afterwards him that had committed it: But the Cartha­ginian had too long follow'd the trade of War, not to conclude by what had been said what was to have been done; which made him immedi­ately seize upon the unfortunate Agent, and carry him to Hanniball; who, by exquisite Torments, forc'd him to reveal the whole Conspiracy. This discovery was as pleasing to Pacuvius (who then was present) as de­plorable for Blacius, who, with exceeding diligence, was by a strong Guard violently carry'd into a Prison, which in the greatness of its horror had this of advantageous, that it made Death a Comparative Good. Fa­bius for all sustain'd no loss but that of his hopes, for though he were in Arms all night, yet by my Fathers committal, the Signal not being given, (which was a lighted Torch our of a Turret Window) he conceiv'd the design had vent, and so leisurely a little before day retreated to his Camp. But alass, I was no sooner inform'd of Blacius's sad Fate, then I lamented him as dead, the knowledge of Hanniball's vindicative Nature justifying that prophetical way of grieving: but after I had moderated which those tears my Sex and Relation render'd unavoidable, and that thereby my Reason was less hinder'd from acting, I resolv'd to write unto Perolla, who I knew was in the Consuls Army. The Letter I sent by a trusty Messenger, and was to this purpose.

Whilst with great impatience I expected a return of this Paper, Han­nibal, to make his revenge appear rather the effect of justice than of pas­sion, proceeded against Blacius in the ordinary forms of Law; by which he was condemn'd to lose his Head, and to have his four Quarters fixt up­on the Gates of Salapia, for a future Terror to all others. O gods! when this fatal Sentence came to my hearing, what did not I utter against Han­nibal's Cruelty, and Blacius's ill Fortune: But whilst I was in the midst of my despair, my Messenger return'd with this answer from my generous Friend,

Oh! How pleasing and forlorn at once was this Letter, I saw my Fa­thers deliverance promis'd, but the way which conduc'd unto it was almost as great a misfortune as it exempted me from: for I found I must hazard all my felicity in attempting to save but a large part of it. Whilst I was thus perplext, I was inform'd that the Consul had sent a Trumpet to Hanni­bal, with an offer of all his Libian Prisoners for the redemption of Bla­cius, and a deep protestation in case he executed him, that he would give no Quarter to those he had already, nor any others in the future. To the first of which, the Carthaginean reply'd, That he valu'd the execu­tion of Justice more than the Romans could the saving a Traytor, and upon that score he would not pardon Blacius's life for a few Prisoners, who being so merited to continue so: And as to his latter threatning, he believ'd it was sent when he remembred not Cannes, Trebia, Tissinum, and Thrassimene: and though Fabius by executing those he had then in his pow­er, would sooner free him from a trouble than give him any; yet he would consider that action as 'twas intended, and vindicate himself at that rate. In a word, he sent him a positive answer, That all the offers or threatnings [Page 133] of the Romans, no not the saving his dear Brother Asdrubal's life (were it in their power) should tye up his hands from so just and necessary a Re­venge. I was further acquainted, that Hanniball had given order before the Trumpet was withdrawn, to have a Scaf [...]old erected in the Alarm­place, and had sworn by the glory of Carthage, and his Fathers Memory, (Oaths which he held in greatest veneration) That before two days were ended, Blacius should receive the reward of his Infidelity. I might ap­pear too impertinent, did I acquaint you what sad operations this cruel Sentence produc'd in me: it shall suffice to tell you, that my weeping in the apprehensions of my Fathers death had well-near caus'd my own, and that I had shed so many antedated tears for it, that had the cruel Hanni­bal seen them, they would doubtless have quench'd his rage. But whilst I abandon'd my self to a grief, that was as just as great, the Night arriv'd which was the Eve to that fatal Day; and as the horror of darkness is always apt to raise in us dismal imaginations; I fancy'd the unfortunate Blacius all pale and bloody coming to my Bed-side, and after he had view'd me, with a look which had almost reduc'd me to the condition he was in, he told me, Behold Izadora, behold these several wounds (which he open'd so wide, that his Soul, had it yet inhabited his Body, might have come entire out of the least of them) though they are full of torment, yet I have forc'd my self to travel from the Elizium: where I have re­ceiv'd the reward of my fidelity to the Romans, and of my Martyrdom under Hanniball, to come and conjure thee by the duty thou owedst me before I was a Ghost; by the joy I have left, and the pain I shall suffer till thou grantest my request: now thou art at thy own dispose, never shew thou hast that power by giving thy self to Perolla; but as thou art Heir to our Blood, be so also to our generous resentments, and let him find that revenge in thy beauty and disdain which he thought he had avoided by the extinction of our Family: if thou grantest me this, the blessed Plains cannot afford me equal satisfaction; but if thou deny'st it, all the felicity of that place will lose its quality; and where others find their happiness, I shall torment. These words methought were spoken with Eyes swell'd with Tears, and with an accent so moving, that in my life I never was in a higher perplexity: I began a thousand times to con­demn those learned Men which taught us, that the felicity of the other life is so perfect an extasie of joy, that it needs no foyl to set it off; and that they in it are no more sensible of any concern for us here than we are capable of conceiving their felicity there; when alass to my cost I found one there not only retain'd an unjust desire of Revenge, which poyson'd all other delights, but also prosecuted a virtue here which was to possess the highest Empire there: and I esteem'd it one great misfor­tune of the other World, that those in it were confin'd to their happi­ness, but by having a liberty of going from their own, they could there­by ruine, or at least interrupt ours. Oh, How I did also inwardly exclaim against my Fathers Tyranny, who pretended a power over me after that by death the Bond was cancel'd, that that he would be so much an Enemy to my felicity, as to deprive me of mine he would involve himself in the like Fate. But whil'st I was preparing such an answer for this ima­nary Ghost as might render my disobedience a justice, I was diverted by a noise so confused and loud, that that death it seem'd to threaten had been rather to be elected than avoided, since therein I had been exempted from hearing so much horror. After half an hours suspence and fear, a Ser­vant of my Fathers came into my Chamber with a lighted Torch, [Page 134] and to remove my doubts, told me, he believ'd that 'twas some false alarum, which Hannibal had given to try the readiness of his Soldiers; for there was no Enemy near enough to give him a true one; and whil'st he was fortifying this conjecture by some other allegations, we heard a noise in the Garden; and suddenly after I perceiv'd a Gentlemen all arm'd and cover'd with blood coming towards me, and leading another, whose hands were loaden with Irons. As soon as the first was come to my Beds-side, he kneel'd down and told me, Your commands, Madam, have not onely given me the desire, but the power to serve you; and since my hazarding a life that I fear is but indifferent, to you I have preserv'd one that you highly value, I shall find in the action the Reward. Then rising and turning towards the Prisouer, he continu'd, You are at liberty, Sir, and if I had had the power to free you from your Chains as well as from your Prison, you had long ere now been eas'd of that burthen; but that office I must leave to some happier hand, lest by my continuance here the joy of your freedom might be extinguish'd by your knowledg of him that gave it you. Then faluting us with a humility as great as his obligation, with­out staying for any answer, he went out of the house the same way he came in; and left us in so deep an astonishment, that for a long while we could not get out of it. The first thing I perceiv'd after my amazement vanisht, was, that the fetter'd Prisoner was Blacius; ah! How pleasing was that surprize? and how I detested my disorder, which had so long suspended and separated me from my joy, which wrought so powerfully on me, that forgetting the posture I was in, I flung my self out of my Bed, and at my Fathers feet, by a thousand irregular actions testified the greatness of my satisfaction; which the more I reflected on, the less cause I found to suppress any effects which proceeded from or illustrated it; neither can my amazement for the greatness and suddeness of this alte­ration be attributed to the weakness of my Sex, since Blacius, whose courage had out-brav'd many dangers, resented a resembling one: And 'twas a long while and by many extravagancies that I withdrew him from his; which when I perceiv'd entirely vanisht, I embrac'd his knees and cry'd out, You are then alive, Sir, and the gods have heard my reite­rated prayers and tears for your deliverance. Yes, Izadora (he reply'd) I am once again at liberty, and doubtless owe that blessing immediately to those powers to whom thou hast address thy weepings; for certainly those prodigies of valor acted for my relief were too much transcending a hu­mane strength: But alass (he continu'd, turning about, and perceiving none in the Chamber but his unfortunate Daughter) What is become of my Protector? He is gone Sir (I answer'd) and his departure has left as high a testimony of his modesty here, as even now he did of his valor in the Prison. His modesty (said Blacius) is as injurions as his courage was obliging; for in acquainting me with a new Gallantry, he has de­priv'd me of expressing my gratitude for the old. If (I reply'd) he could but hear your resentments in his favour, I am so well acquainted with his disposition, that I dare assure you he would esteem not only too plen­tiful a reward for what he has already done, but for those services he hopes to pay you in the future; but the apprehension he had that the same fate which attended Perolla might wait on him, and that what his valor did create, your knowledge of his condition might destroy, made him so suddenly vanish, and rather elect to leave you a good opinion of him by not knowing his Name, than hazard the contrary by a re­vealing of it.

[Page 135]I am then (he reply'd) still so unhappy, that to know, and not to know to whom I am indebted for my life must prove an equal misfor­tune? No, no, Izadora (he continu'd) I conjure you by all the gods, if you are acquainted with my Deliverer, and would have me relish what he has given me, inform me who he is, and where he resides, for rather than leave him so ill a character of my resentments, I will repeat greater dangers than he has freed me from; and to assure him of my Gratitude, I will undertake (it may be to perform) actions of as tran­scendent a quality as those which created it: This I command you as a duty, and this I beg of you as a charity; neither can you suspect in this discovery the same destiny which attended Perolla, the difference of the action justly silencing those apprehensions, For though it be true, that the ends are the same, yet the ways are extremely different: Perolla per­haps was surpriz'd into his gallantry. This acted it with premeditation, that freed me onely from the hands of an apparent violence, but this from a seeming Justice: That did but the duty of every man in suppres­sing Murtherers, who are the destroyers of humane Society; and who knows whether his seeing my distress did not put him in mind of what his own might be as soon as my death had given those that were acting it in the liberty and the power, and so, that which you term his giving me life, might be in order to preserve his own; But this generous Stran­ger had no motive to invite his assistance but his gallantry, which makes him attempt an action, where the undertaking of it is as great a wonder as the per­formance, and has thereby so bound me to gratitude, that I believe were it Perolla that had thus obliged me, I should almost suppress my just re­sentments for his Family, and that performance which gave me my life and liberty, might give him my affection and friendship. Sir (I reply'd) Perolla's actions are of too high a quality to need any commendations but what they carry in themselves, but were not my duty more prevalent with me than truth, I should perhaps aver that your comments can no more diminish their natural luster than mine can add unto it; but since you are pleas'd to place so right an esteem upon this Strangers services, and express as earnest a desire of knowing as of being grateful to him, I will no longer conceal him: 'Tis Perolla, Sir, That same Perolla, whose former obligations you have lessen'd but to increase the present; 'Tis he whose gallantry, were it capable of being supprest, had doubtless been so by your ingratitude; (Pardon me if dare say what you did act:) But he from your cruelty deduces arguments to convince you of his affe­ction and friendship, by not declining your preservation, when dangers as great as your hatred threatned whosoever should attempt it: 'Tis then, that he with an unimitable virtue exposes his own life to redeem yours, which by a sad experiment he knew was the chiefest obstruction in his felicity. Give me leave Sir too, a little to repine that you could fancy any other could undertake and act so much for you; and certainly were not your judgment clouded with a prejudicated opinion of him, the gal­lantry of the performance, and the modesty and humility of the Perfor­mer, would have been a certainer information than my words that it was Perolla; in whose behalf I beg you to practice (now you know him) what you promis'd when you only knew his services; for all returns but that of your affection and friendship will be as short of his merit as both those will abundantly reward it. Blacius, when I had ended speaking, after having fetcht two or three turns about the room with an angry look, reply'd, I should have [...]ooner known 'twas Perolla by the great [Page 136] rate you set upon his services than by the services themselves; and if I plac'd a higher Character on them than they merited, 'twas only to draw a confession from you, which I thought nothing else could perform: My design has succeeded; and in those very expressions which you intended should create my affection for your lover, I perceive the continuation of yours to him, and in so high a disobedience to my commands, that that death I am freed from, turns to a misfortune, and forces me to tell you, if you persevere in this criminal passion, I shall embrace Hannibal's resent­ment rather as a cure than a punishment. Alas Sir (I answer'd, exceedingly surpriz'd) Must then Perolla's saving your life, and my gratitude for it be look'd upon as Crimes? And must an obligation from an enemy, which should raise the greatness of it, turn it to an offence? Since these are the constructions you make of his actions, 'tis high time for him to despair: since 'tis as impossible for him not to offend you (if obligations be an of­fence) as for you with justice to give his performances that name. If what he has done for me (said Blacius) be an obligation, from thence you may derive a proof of my affection to you, which had rather en­dure the name of ungrateful, than by giving you away free my self from that aspersion. But do not proceed in this disputing against my re­solutions, which may force me to hate what I desire to love. You are too just (I reply'd) to hate without a cause, and 'tis on that assurance I dare become Perolla's Advocate, since his fear of offending you makes him decline being his own: do not then, Sir, employ that breath he has pre­serv'd to destroy him that gave it you; his service merits an esteem, if not a reward; and it may be, others will say you do as high an injustice in thus using your Deliverer, as he did that put you in a condition to need his help. To which Blacius told me, That Life which is now (I hope) out of Hannibal's power, and which you say I owe Perolla's Af­fection to me, was rather an argument of his own to himself; he knew the justice of those resentments I had for his could not be silenc'd but by actions as great as those which created them, and that whilst they con­tinu'd, he could no more obtain my permission of possessing you, than you without it; so that my deliverance being the best way to that end, he perform'd it, and thereby no more oblig'd me than a Passenger does the Commander of a Ship, by saving what could not perish without invol­ving him in the common ruine, so that his being a friend to himself only made him a friend to me. Sir (I reply'd) he that sav'd your life once, and could not by that obligation suppress your hatred, had no reason, by a repetition of that favour, to expect a better return; so that his expe­rience convincing him your aversion was not to be taken away, he might have sufffer'd your life to have been so by Hannibal, who had both the power and will to do it; especially, that being the onely obstacle to his desires, had not his affection to one of your family inclin'd him upon that score to love all of it; This gallantry shews so handsomly, that I hope 'twill invite yours to an imitation, especially too, since by the effects of it you receive a benefit whose greatness cannot be equall'd, but by that in­justice which makes you endeavor his ruine that conferr'd it on you. He that by saving my life (said Blacius extremely mov'd) found in that acti­on a gratitude so extraordinary as to suppress a revenge (where my power to perform it was not greater than the justice which invited me to it) might reasonably hope that by a succession of services of that nature I might in time be induc'd as well to silence my hatred as I had my re­venge, so that what you attribute to my Enemies gallantry, might be [Page 137] better ascrib'd to his reason and judgement: My death too had been so far from freeing all his obstructions, that it had but created greater, for I had so order'd it in my Will, that if you had married him, you should have broke those Tyes and Conjurations which had render'd you unworthy of his Bed; or if his Passion had attributed your want of duty to your Fa­ther, to be a higher argument of your affection to your Lover, yet you should have brought him nothing but the bare Izadora; for apprehending by what you have done, what you might do, I had (upon so transcendent a violation of those commands, which I would have seal'd with my last breath) given to another all my estate, which I believe (whatever advantageous and partial opinion you have of your self) makes Perolla as much your Servant as your Beauty. If no one (I reply'd) had a greater value of me than I have of my self, Perolla would soon have as low an opinion of me, as you have of his Services; and truly when I consider the largeness of your Fortune, and the little Title I have to any perfections which are capable of inviting so transcendent a happiness as his Affection, I am apt enough to believe I derive that felicity from the first of those motives; but on the other side, when I reflect upon those sacred protestations he has made me, that his passion was created, and is nourish'd by my Beauty and Vertue and from no secondary causes, I am inclin'd to believe any thing, rather than that he dissembles; especially, since in not crediting his vows, I cannot injure him more than I do my own felicity. At this reply, Blacius could no longer suppress his Choler, but with Eyes and Looks, which had terrified me in a Cause, less just than I now defended, he told me, You are not then only contented to pre­serve a criminal Flame in your Heart, but you must publish it too; and to raise your insolence to an inaccessional height, you voluntarily ac­knowledge, that you find your contentment in that which divests me of mine; but since by your disobedience you will force me to use my pa­ternal power, I will make you e'r long not only know, but practise your duty. Finishing these words, he went out of my Chamber, and left me in as great a trouble at his rigor, as he could resent for my constancy: I must confess, that my Affection made me say things which I should have condemn'd upon any other score, and which after my resentment was a little over, I endeavoured to wash away with Tears: But no passions of Love or Repentance were hardly more predominant in me, than those of Rage and Fury were in Hannibal, who could not reflect upon the in­jury done his Authority and Revenge, by forcing a Prison in his Head-Quarters, and taking thence his capital Enemy, upon the Eve of the Execution, which Perolla had done by surprize, and by the assistance of a few resolute friends he had in Salapia, who were all disguis'd as well as he, without abandoning himself to an excess of choller, which made him utter things unworthy his Place and Reputation: neither for two days together could those which had most intimacy and power with him, ob­tain of him to appear in publick, or so much as to take sufficient nou­rishment to preserve Nature; nor had his despair been so soon vanquisht, had not his Officers engag'd themselves, not only to find out the Offen­ders, but the Prisoner too, if he would publish a Proclamation, which might promise large Rewards to those which should effect either; upon which the Carthaginians set forth a Manifest of this Tenor.

I Know not whether the promise of so unlimited Rewards, or the Ju­stice of the gods (who would not let Blacius enjoy that liberty he had been so unthankful for to the Bestower of it) was the cause of his discovery; but two days after he had relisht the blessing of Free­dom, he lost it again by a Squadron of Soldiers, who violently breaking open the doors, went so directly to a secret Vault, where he had con­ceal'd himself, that it manifested their search for him proceeded from their knowledge, and not from their suspitions; from thence they conveyed him bound in Irons (and with words as ill to be digested as their usage) to Hannibal's own Lodgings, where a Guard of barbarous Affricans new­ly come from Carthage, were set over him, who no more understood the Roman Language, than what belong'd to Humanity. For Hannibal, you may (in some sort) guess at his joy by what his trouble had been; but for my part I was so drown'd in sorrow, that when you can imagine the highest operation of grief, I can truly affirm mine did make that good. And indeed, when I considered my unfortunate Father in the hands of those whose fury would not be quencht but with with his Bloud; and that Perolla's usage made me esteem it as high a sin to engage him in any further attempt for Blacius's relief, as my ignorance where he was, made it impossible to send to him; I found in my Judgement and Duty, such strong arguments for sorrow, that I had no way better merited the mis­fortune, than not to have deplored it in the sublimest degree.

In the mean while the cruel Carthaginian, to avoid all accidents, and to hasten the satisfaction of his Revenge, caused my Father the next day, to be brought with ignominious cruelty, to a Scaffold he had erected in the Allarm-place, and as well to avoid those tumults which the Salapians affection to Blacius might raise, as to satiate his Eyes with his Enemies Bloud, he had raised another Scaffold near the first, [Page 139] and there waited on by his Guards, be intended to become a Spectator of that execution, of which he had been the Judge. Whilst these things were performing in publique, an antient friend of Blacius's came to visit me, and to give me that consolation my duty and affection so abundant­ly wanted. After some discourses of a nature fit for the subject, I was ve­ry inquisitive, whether the Revealer of my Fathers retirement was not yet found out? To which he answered me, that though he had declin'd no ways imaginable for that discovery; yet his endeavours had been fruitless, but (he continued) though I cannot tell you the offender, yet I can (I am confident) shew you the cause of the offence, and there­upon pull'd out the Copy of that Proclamation, I even now acquaint you wit. Though my grief were of a quality which hardly permitted my Eyes to do any thing but weep, yet (as the gods would have it) I stopped a while their employment, to read that fatal Proclamation, which as soon as I had ended, I reflected upon some words in it, that I thought might prove of great advantage to me, and immediately after, asked this charitable friend, whether he thought the execution were yet done? To which he answered, he was confident it was not, for just then he came from the place where it was to be performed (his antient friend­ship rendring him uncapable of seeing such a Spectacle) where some of the assistants had told him, the usual Ceremonies that are practised in such Cases, would take up at least an hour, which was not yet half expir [...]d. I re­ceived this assurance with exceeding joy, and immediately conjur'd him him to conduct me to the cruel Hannibal, who he had told me, was an assistant at Blacius Tragedy. The good old man would have disswaded me from seeing an object which would but augment my grief, but I begg'd that favour of him with such earnest words and expressions, that at last he yielded to me, but it was so long e're I could vanquish him, that what he designed for a proof of his care, had like to have produced a strange and contrary effect. For just as I came under the Scaffold, I perceived my poor Father preparing himself for the fatal stroak with a courage which render'd him unworthy of it; so sad a spectacle made me hasten to Hannibal's seat, where at last I came, and with a counte­nance more suitable to my resentment than condition, I presented my self unto him, and told him, Sir, I beseech you, command a suspension of Blacius's death, till I have acquainted you with some things, that may perhaps induce you to pardon him. The Carthagineans, (who then con­sider'd nothing but my Sex and motion) with a look as barbarous as his Countrey, reply'd, Woman, the offences of that Traytor are too tran­scendent to expect a pardon for any thing thou canst reveal, thou mayst well therefore spare thy self a labour which will proveal together fruitless, Then turning about, he commanded some of his Guards to carry me down again. At that cruel order I flung my self at his Feet, and embra­cing his Knees, I thus continued; I am (Sir) come to invoke that justice which has hitherto made you as famous as your success, and will not stir from this posture, till you assure me, I shall not be denyed it. Those few words I spoke so loud, and so distinctly, that most of those Salapians which were near the Scaffold, heard them, which putting them in hopes that it might be something that would conduce to Blacius advantage, (whom I told you they extreamly loved) they cryed out to Hannibal, Hear her, hear her, which voices (as is common in the croud) were seconded by those that neither understood the cause, nor the approvers of that mo­tion. The Carthaginians finding the City so pressing and unanimous, for­bad [Page 140] his Guards to meddle with me, who were already beginning to force my Hold, and not only enjoyn'd the suspension of the execution, till I had done speaking, but told me, I might be as consident of his doing me right, as of Blacius's death, than which nothing the Oracles did tell, could be more certain.

Sir (I continu'd) you will soon find how great a confidence I have of your Justice, since my relyance on it, makes me offer my Life into your Power, who am the unfortunate Daughter of this Blacius, that it seems has offended you in such a degree, as nothing but his Bloud can be your reparation; in pursuance of which resolve you were pleas'd under sa­cred Oaths, when his Prison was forc'd (and thereby your revenge fru­strated) to publish, That whosoever would reveal unto you who were the Contrivers, Causers, or Actors of his liberty, should have granted any one thing the said party could ask that was in your power: this Procla­mation which I here present you is my witness, and the assurance you are inviolate in your engagements, has brought me to discover unto you who is the offender that has so exceedingly transgrest your Laws; but before I disclose this secret, I must beg a reiteration of that assurance, which to induce you to with the less reluctancy, be pleas'd to receive mine, that the same minute you confirm your first engagement, I will put into your power the crimital person which procur'd my unfortunate Fa­ther his short liberty, so that the same action which makes you satisfy your word, will give you the power to satisfy your revenge too. All those which could hear my request, gave their approbation to it by a loud shout, for they car'd not upon whose ruines they built Blacius's deliverance, and Hannibal, who was always as ambitious of Glory as of Revenge, re­peated and confirm'd the Oaths and Promises of his Proclamation, which being finisht, I thus continued: Since by a generosity which I ever ex­pected from so great a Prince, you have silenc'd all those doubts my own constant unhappiness, and not any suspitions of your Virtue, did create, I shall boldly acquaint you, that your justice receiv'd that affront from Izadora, and though my Sex exempted me from actions of that nature, yet by my Prayers and Letters to a young Roman Gentleman, I rais'd that power which cast you into so great disorders, and for the punish­ment of which you have made such unlimited promises. Thus, Sir, I have satisfied my engagement, not only by acquainting you who committed the offence, but by putting the offender into your hands: And now I shall expect as punctual a performance from you. Then, as I was begin­ning to make my request, the Carthaginian, who suspected by my reso­lution, that it would be Blacius's Life (wherein he was not deceiv'd) sud­denly started up, and with a furious look told me; If thou art so mad as to beg thy Fathers Life for this discovery, in expectation afterwards that thy Sex will induce me to pitty thee; know that thy Crime will make me pass by all considerations, and raise a fury which by all the gods, nothing but thy destruction will appease; this I acquaint thee with, that thou mayst owe thy death to thy wilfulness, and not to my resentments, which I tell thee once more will prove so severe, thou wilt soon repent thou e'r didst raise them; but if thou wilt yet decline that request, thy Sex and Relations will invite me to pardon what I know I ought to punish. Sir (I reply'd nothing terrify'd at these threatenings) I desire not to be ob­lig'd to your Mercy, but your Justice, neither can I lose my life more gloriously than for him that gave it me: My duty in this case is most pre­dominant, and I know nothing can make me more worthy of death, than [Page 141] how to avoid it; therefore (Sir) I conjure you by those gods you have invok'd, by that Empire which derives its g [...]eate [...]t Glory from your Vir­tue, and by that Father whose memory you [...] to reverence, were it onely for giving the world so g [...]eat a [...]. At the end of these words, I heard a voice which stopt me from p [...]oceeding any farther, by saying, Hold, hold, Izadcra, be not [...] to be gen [...]rous, not accuse your self of a fault, which if it be one, I (by your own [...]) am only guilty of it. This voice (which I too soon knew was Pcrolla's) made me turn about, where [...] immediately saw my generous Friend breaking th [...]ough Hannibals Guards that would have stopt him (among whom he had staid awhile, where he had heard all that had past,) and [...]linging himself [...]t his Enemies feet, told him; Sir, You have bound your self by obligations too strong to leave me any suspition that you will not perform your en­gagement to him that shall reveal who was Blacius's Deliverer; and there­fore I shall make no scruple to acknowledge that it was I, and the reward that I expect for this discovery, is, that you will suppress all th [...]e cruel thoughts you have taken up against the fair Izadora, who through an ex­cess of duty condemns her self to free her Father. You that have been just, Sir, to your Enemies, will not now I hope be the contrary to your self, especially when the subject you are to employ your virtue on, me­rits adoration sooner than Pardon, and whose only crime is her Chari­ty. Instead then of so unfit a victim to appease your fury, I offer that Perolla, who had at Capua depriv'd you of life, if his Sword had prov'd the more fortunate, and had not his Fathers Tears and Dissimulation pre­serv'd you: Who at Pettely rais'd his reputation by the destruction of 10000 Affricans; who at Cassilinum made you send Blanks where you had denyed any conditions; Who by the destroying of 25000 of Allies and Soldiers forc'd from you the Samnites, Lucanians, and Appulians; who took that Cassilinum by storm, which you only won by Famine: in a word, I present you that Perolla, who was not only content to offend you in all these particulars, but came even into your Head-Quarters, and in the Center of your Army, broke open your Prisons, kill'd your Guards, restor'd your Capital Enemy to his freedom, and was now come to have stopt the progress of your revenge upon him, by owning the action, and by tying you (unless you would violate your Faith) to give me his life for the reward of this discovery, which I had too effected, had not his generous Daughter by her own confession, necessitated me to imploy that Petition for her safety, which I had designed for her Fathers.

Gods! into what confusions did this resolute acknowledgement cast me into? That death which I was prepared to suffer, appeared far more sup­portable than this action of Perolla's, for it reduced me either to imploy my request for my Fathers, and so lose my friends Life; or if I preserv'd Perolla's, I must lose Blacius's, and that which was an aggravation to this misery, was, that by what was done already, I was necessitated to survive the loss of one of them, unless I would prove my own executioner; Alas, how sad a conflict had I betwixt my Duty and my Affection? Na­ture pleading for the one, and Gratitude for the other. What, (said I to my self) wilt thou destroy thy Father to save his Enemy? wilt thou not preserve that Life that gave thee thine? wilt thou satisfy thy debts with thy Fathers Bloud, and shall the tyes of Friendship be more preva­lent than those of Nature? But on the other side, shall the name of Fa­ther make thee act that which will render thee unworthy that relation? shall that breath which even now Perolla gave thee, be employed to save [Page 142] anothers life by the ruine of his? Unfortunate Izadora! hast thou no way to perform thy duty but by a murther? and hast thou no no way to per­form thy gratitude, but by a Paricide? must the satisfaction of thy gratitude be the ruine of thy Father? and must the satisfaction of thy duty be the loss of thy Friend? must to be grateful and ungrateful prove an equal crime? and must the paying of one debt, render thee uncapable of pay­ing the other? I take the gods to witness that I would joyfully put an end to this fatal dispute but that of my life, and have embrac'd that fate with a satisfaction equal to that of Martyrs, who know their punish­ment, is but the way unto their Glory: but the time was so pressing, that I was necessitated to spend what remained, not in complaints, but reso­lutions, therefore I thus continu'd. Perolla came to preserve Blacius, though my unfortunate duty made him change his design: and that ge­nerosity which once made my Father to esteem his life his misfortune, be­cause his Enemy conferr'd it on him, though only by his courage, will make a repetition of that favour, create a higher trouble in him, when the purchase of his safety, is his Enemies voluntary death; his Virtue, doubtless, will make him decline an obligation, where what makes him receive it, deprives him of all power to express his resentments for it: 'Tis but just too, that that life which has so often preserv'd Blacius's, should now be preserv'd by his; Yes, yes Izadora, let Perolla find his safety from one of that Family, in which he hath hitherto found his misery; act now thy Fathers part, and upon the score of his Virtue perform that for Perolla, whose effects may demonstrate their cause, and let him find, now thou art in Blacius's room, that that cruelty thou didst condemn in him, thou wilt not practise for him, and in this one action show what thy Fa­thers resentments should be, and what thine own are: Then when this debt is discharged, satisfy thy own as generously, and by ending thy life with his that gave it thee, convince him and the World, that as thou valu'st thy life short of thy duty, which shouldst thou any longer enjoy would bring that truth in question, and make that relish of self-interest which is of a contrary quality. But alas (I continued) how will Perolla resent this proceeding? he'll alledge, that what thou termest Gratitude, is Cruelty, that the way thou tak'st to save his life, is the certainst means to lose it, and that instead of repairing Blacius's injuries, thou art more injurious far than he. These, and a world of such, thy Friend will object against thee, to which thou hast no reply, but that thy Fate having invi­roned thee with excess of miseries, thou electest those that to thy judge­ment are the least, and that thou hadst rather dye by acting what may merit his esteem, than live in a contrary unhappiness. Whilst I was thus debating, and had fixt upon this resolution, Perolla was all the while conjuring Hannibal to observe his Promise, and to make him the object of his Cruelty, so he made me that of his Justice, and in order to this told the Carthaginians such reasons, that I apprehended nothing more than he would find his destruction in his Eloquence, and so raise his enemies fu­ry, that he would sacrifice the violation of his Oaths and Faith to his re­venge: In this fear I interrupted him from proceeding by addressing my self in these terms to the Carthaginian.

Sir, If I have been thus long silent, you will, I hope pardon it when you know, that a dispute betwixt Gratitude and Nature was the occasi­on, in the end, the first has been victorious, but to make it so, I was ne­cessitated to act my Fathers part, who I know is too generous to let Pe­rolla suffer for him, when by his own sufferings he may hinder his, and [Page 143] 'twere too much wrong to the generosity of Perolla's action, not to let it instruct my Fathers to an imitation of it. These words too fully inform'd my friend of my intentions, to let him permit my proceedings any fur­ther, which he hinder'd by leaving Hannibal, and by prostrating himself before me, where as soon as his disorder would permit him, he cry'd out, Ah Madam, do not, I beseech you, by so unjust a Victory, blemish your Virtue, nor make me so wretched, as to find my misery, in that which perhaps you intend as an argument of your Affection, to preserve your Fathers and your Life, nay your Fame too, are cause too glorious to deplore any effects which may proceed from them: do not then envy me a death, by which I shall always live, and by losing only an uncer­tain Being, obtain an Eternal one. If I had not (I reply'd) taken up this resolution, that which you do to suppress, would have created it, and in this fresh proof of your Virtue, I find a greater invitaion to continue, than alter my intentions: Blacius would live more miserable with such a debt, than he can dye by paying it, and I cannot deplore his destiny which makes that Life (which even now was to be an oblation only to Hannibals fury) to prove a sacrifice to Gratitude. If (said Perolla) the payment of that Gratitude be addrest to me, I take all that's holy to wit­ness, I shall find in the design only a larger, and more pleasing payment, than in the action: Alas Madam, consider too, I beseech you, what all Mankind will say of you, they will (doubtless) condemn that Virtue which has been hitherto their admiration, and that which you think will raise their esteem, will absolutely suppress it; besides, if you proceed in your design, 'twill be so far from hindering, that it will but hasten my death; do not then, I beseech you, force me through despair, to spill that bloud, which now may be shed for a Subject that out-weighs the loss. I shall find (I reply'd) in your silence, a stronger inducement to obey you, than in your words, espicially if they be of this nature, and for your apprehension of my prejudicing in this action, that little Virtue I possess, I have fixt upon a resolve, shall still preserve, if not increase it, and I have so order'd all things, that your last Declaration is now my only trouble, which forces me to make use of that power you have so often assur'd me I have over you, to beg, and if that be not sufficient to com­mand you by our passions, which have been as pure as great, and by all other conjurations that are most powerful, whatsoever happens to me, use no violence upon your self, nor leave this life till the gods do call you to a better; this I implore with the more earnestness, because po­sterity shall judge of your love by your obedience. Then without stay­ing for his answer, (whose quality I read in his amazement) I went to Hannibal, and having laid open all the most pressing terms I could com­pose to illustrate the unworthiness of a violated engagemeut, I conjur'd him as a recompence of what I had reveal'd, to give Perolla his life and liberty; who having followed me, and hearing my request, detesting to derive his safety from the cause he esteem'd in me, so unnatural, thus spoke to the Carthaginian. By a true confession (Sir) how Blacius was reliev­ed, I am confident you find no other had a hand in it but I, at least Iza­dora had not, who was so far from either contriving or knowing it, that when I presented him to her she was weeping him for dead, and admir'd as much at his deliverance as he himself did. As for that Letter she al­leadges, which was the cause of his Liberty, I protest by all the gods, it commanded me only to make use of the Consuls favour for Blacius's redemption, by offering some Lybian prisoners, or for a suspension of his [Page 144] death, by threatening all those he had to follow his destiny, so that she was no more the cause then the effect of her Fathers freedom, neither can she pretend any title to the benefit of your Proclamation, by disco­vering who was the Actor, for when I brought Blacius to her, I was so co­vered with Armor, that she could not possibly know me, and as an ar­gument of this truth, she call'd me Roman, when as yet I never saw Rome and had my birth in this City; therefore (Sir) none but I has any inte­rest in your manifest, which obliges you no less to preserve inviolate your vows and promises, than to punish those which have offended you. Ah Sir (said I, flinging my self at his feet) I hope you are too judicious not to distinguish betwixt an accusation which proceeds from Generosity, and one which proceeds from guilt, and consequently not to impute this of Perolla's, to one of the first quality, but yet, lest you should want light to see so much Virtue, I beseech you reflect upon whose Son he is, and you will find in his extraction, cause to invite him, rather to destroy Blacius by the hazard of his own life, than to save him by a certain loss of it. Yes (Sir) I blush in his behalf to acknowledge that the little Beau­ty and Virtue which the gods have given me, converted his inclinations, and made him cherish what he would otherwise have destroyed, so that I am apparently the cause of that freedom, which created your resent­ments: besides, I have a title to my request, discovering who was the Actor; For as to that allegation, that I was weeping my Fathers loss, when he presented him to me, I may truly answer, my affection had as large a share in those Tears, as my Duty; for I could not reflect upon Bla­cius danger and Perolla's courage, but it was impossible to retain them, and though indeed, at his coming into my Chamber, he was covered with Arms and Bloud, yet his Gallantry discover'd what his unkind Ar­mor would have conceal'd, and in his actions I found as great an assu­rance that it was Perolla, as I could have had in seeing his Face; so that my calling him Roman, proceeded not from my ignorance but fears; for I was informed after my Fathers rescue, such strict Guards were plac'd about the City, that I apprehended my generous friend was not gotten out of it, so that if by any misfortune he fell into your power, I would not (by precisely acquainting you who he was) have given you so great an ac­cession to that hatred you had already contracted for him; besides, I might aptly enough, call him a Roman, his inclinations and actions having always been for that Empire. Thus (Sir) have I clearly demonstrated the in­terest I have in your engagement, which gives me the confidence to con­jure you by these Tears, and by that word which you have hitherto so religiously observed, give Perolla that Life and Liberty, he would so me­ritoriously have lost, which is the Petition I humbly make for my disco­very: neither can you satisfy that request he has already made you, with­out yielding to mine too; for that life he has begg'd, is so united to his, that it cannot admit of a different Fate. To which Hannibal reply'd, Madam, Perolla may with reason be credited, since 'tis not likely he would disclaim a Truth which would save his life; and therefore as I have been just to him in granting his desires for you; so permit me now to be just to my self, by sacrificing an offender, who is not only contented to be so, but glories in it, and out-braves my Justice. Yes Sir (said Perolla) since you have saved the fair Izadora: inflict on me all the torments your Revenge and Fury can inspire you with, and I will embrace them with more joy than they are imposed, nay, commend that justice which by my sufferings, exempts the perfectest creature from induring any. This [Page 145] generous reply so incen'sd the barbarous Hannibal; that he commanded his Guards to bind Perolla, and carry him to receive a death; whose torments might be as great as his crime. The Guards at those barbarous Orders advanc'd to seize upon Perolla, who perceiving their intentions, went half way to meet them, and holding out his Arms, told them. Here, here Soldiers, obey your General; and bind up those Arms which when they were at liberty were as much his fear, as now they are his satis­faction, and which yet, (were I disposed to [...]ell my life) might make him tremble in the midst of you; but I will not impose that in which I find my Glory. Those words he spoke with so furious a look, that though unarmed, and invironed with his Enemies, yet it struck such a damp into their Hearts, that their trembling was the greatest proof they were alive. But Perolla instantly disarming himself of all his fury, with an Humility great as my grief, kneel'd at my feet and told me, The gods shall be my witness (Madam) that the onely thing which made me cherish my life, was out of a hope that it might prove serviceable to you, and now it is so fortunate, not only to save you, but pardon me if I say so, to keep you too from a stain which might blemish all your other Virtues, I re­sign it with more joy than I kept it; but yet I must confess, when I re­flect upon our separation, I find a strong aversion to it, and am forc'd to run for my Consolation to the necessary causes of it. Must then (I re­ply'd, interrupting him with a shower of Tears) must then the une­quall'd Perolla have so hard a fate, that he finds his Consolation in the destruction of my Felicity? unjust Heaven! who will ever adore friend­ship, when it turns to be the ruine of him that possest it in the highest per­fection. Ah Madam, said he, call me rather your Votary than your Friend, and then you need not fear this President will prejudice Poste­rity, for Men sooner adore, than decline a Deity, by the example of a Martyrdom. But Madam, you may convert my trouble into my felicity, by permitting this voluntary death to preserve me alive in your esteem, which will be a nobler existence, and render me an object fitter for your Joy than Tears. You shall not only have my esteem (I reply'd) but my company, since 'tis a greater misery to out-live the loss of so much Virtue, than to dye with it. But Sir (said Izadora, speaking to Spartacus) per­haps I make the relation only of these accidents as tedious and troublesom to you, as they themselves were to us: but I will repair that fault, by contracting the sequel of our Adventures. To which my Prince reply'd, Madam, if I am in any trouble, it only proceeds from sympathizing in those disasters you were fallen into, and the difficulties I find in your be­ing delivered out of them, of which I am so impatient, and concern'd, that I shall beg you henceforward to believe, that as long as you prose­cute your Story, you will as much oblige me, as by interrupting it you will do the contrary. Izadora, with an action which testified her ac­knowledgement, thus continued her Relation. I will obey you, Sir, and it may be in my following discourse, you will find that our perplexities were cur'd by as strange an accident, as that which created them: For Hannibal all this while continu'd in a deep silence, which I attributed to his being a Judge, rather than a Lover; but the gods, who magnify their power by producing great Effects from small Causes, made us find in this poor Beauty, the redress of those disorders which it had occasioned; for at the first, when I presented my self unto the Carthaginian, I was (as my condition required) all vail'd, and continu'd so, till Perolla's cruel Gallan­try forc'd me to uncover my Face, in which Hannibal fancy'd as many [Page 146] charms as it wanted, and by the help of his own imagination, so abun­dantly supply'd the unkindness of nature to me, that in his wounds we found our remedy. And truly, for it to vanquish any Heart was strange, but to captivate Hannibal's, who hated our Sex as much as he did the Ro­mans, and to divest him too, of his fury and revenge, appear'd so great a Miracle, that had not some visible effects been the witness of that Truth, I had found in my imperfections, too many Arguments to have doubted it; and without question, 'twas such Passion as his, that made Love be painted blind; but many that stood by, and were not so ingaged as I was, observ'd at first, that which I no way suspected or perceiv'd, till Hannibal, who found Perolla was as much his Rival in Love as in Glory, after having laid down all those motives he esteemed most prevalent to in­duce me rather to employ my request for my Father, than my Friend, per­ceiving me so unshaken in my resolves, and so pressing in my Tears, and Prayers, and guessing at my disposition by his own, which hardened it self by opposition, at last when the Guards were carrying away the gene­rous Perolla, he told me; Madam, If I have labour'd to prove you had no Title to my Proclamation, 'twas only to shew you, that you had a power over me from yourself, greater than you can derive from thence, and that you may command upon the score of your Beauty, that which you only beg by virtue of my manifest. Alas Sir (I reply'd) I am too well acquainted with this unfortunate Beauty, to believe it can have so high an influence on so great a Conqueror, pardon me then, if I dare tell you, I shall be diffident of its power, unless I am convinc'd of it by a de­monstration? If you suspect (said he) that which carries its authority with it, and if you can doubt that Truth which Hannibal's Captivity does witness; command me any other tryal, and you shall find in my obe­dience, how great a wrong you have done the fair Izadora: So high a ci­vility, I answered, merits a proportionate return, and therefore I shall employ that power you give me, for your own advantage, and only beg you to be just unto your vows, by giving Perolla his life, Madam, (said Hannibal) though in saving him I shall preserve (by what I have observed) as great an opposer of my Felicity, as of my Conquests: and thereby too, create as many Enemies as Soldiers in my Army, yet I will observe your Orders. Yes Madam, I give Perolla's life to your com­mands, and I give you Blacius's without them, who for having bestowed so great a perfection on the World, merits rather my esteem than revenge. My zeal to your service, stays not in that dull method of only obeying what you command, it lays hold on that which it thinks is your Will without the revealing it. I could not have the patience to let him pro­ceed, his Words and Actions were too generous to delay my acknow­ledgements for them, which I exprest, prostrate at his feet, in the most moving and humble manner I was capable of. I will not, Sir, said Izadora, trouble you with the repetition of them, though they were so satisfacto­ry to him, to whom they were addrest, that as an acknowledgement of it, he went immediately himself, unbound both Blacius and Perolla, and presented them to me, with an humility so far beyond his practise, that the standers by admir'd as much, as I was pleas'd at it. But to obscure this joy, some of Pacuvius's friends seeing the danger his generous Son had been in, went to his House to inform him of it, (for he, out of gallantry, would not be present at his Enemies death, though he had Hannibal's example to authorize that action.) As soon as he had notice of it, he went with so great haste to the place of Execution that those which saw it, [Page 147] thought that his affection and not his hatred was the cause of it. The croud about the Scaffold was so great, that it was with much difficulty and with an often repeating of his name (to which all paid a deep re­spect) that he got at last to Hannibal, and it was just at that instant, that the Carthaginian had unbound Perolla, and given him to me. Pacuvius was suddenly informed of all that happened, which every one assured them­selves, would render him a large sharer in the general joy: but alas he soon put them out of that belief by thus speaking to Hannibal. I were (Sir) unworthy the friendship of so great a Conqueror did I value any relati­on above it; 'tis upon that principle that I have detested Perolla, who hates as much your Person as your Glory, and if I hitherto conceal'd that horrid attempt against you, which he himself has now publisht, 'twas not Because he was my Son, but out of a belief that I might convert him: for I knew, a courage which was capable in so green an age to attempt so bold and high a design, which was more advantageous to you to be gained, than destroyed; but since that valour, the gods have given him, has been imployed to ruine what it should have advanc'd, I am come to implore your justice against one who is as much an Enemy to nature, as to Carthage; punish him for intending your destruction, in a place where not to have sacrific'd himself for you, had been as great a sin. Yes (Sir) punish him for designing your death, and punish me in him, not onely for concealing, but likewise for not revenging it, and let one execution repair both our crimes; you see, generous H [...]nnibal, how I contemn my own interest, when yours comes in competition with it, which I imbrace with such a concern, that I had rather extinguish my Family, than continue it, by leaving so great a stain upon your Justice, and danger to your person, as the saving of Perolla will amount unto. Besides Sir, shall that courage, which hitherto found nothing so easie as to conquer, leave the blemish behind it of having been vanquisht by the eyes only of one of our enemies? shall the Romans derive their Triumph from a Sex which never merited higher than your pitty? [...] such a plead­ing Desire as Revenge, and such a Virtue as Justice be supprest by an un­worthy passion, which like madness, none believe they ever were possest with when they'r cur'd of it? Let not (Sir) I beseech you the cause of your disorders be worse than the effects, but by a generous Conquest over your self, shew you are capable to vanquish all obstacles, and let your enemies in that very action which they esteemed would prove your shame, find an argument that you are invincible, so he that can overcome H [...]n­nibal, cannot but be thought to do the like to Rome, and all the World. The Carthaginian, who knew no other cause of Pacuvius's hatred to his Son, than what he had alledged, not only upon that account excus'd his passion, and expressions, but replyed, had I not already given Perolla's life to the fair Izadora's commands, I now had bestowed it on Pacuius's generosity, and find in what he alledges more cause to suppress, than to creat my Revenge; He that could sacrifice the hopes of his posterity for my interest, had too much misplac'd his friendship, if for a return to it I would not silence a Revenge, especially when the acting it will prove the destruction of so generous a Family, in which my misfortune is the onely fault of any one of it; for Perolla wants not Virtue, but I the felici­ty to merit it, and though (he continued with a smile) you upbraid me with being vanquisht; yet I cannot but acknowledge I am more pleased in this defeat, than with all my former victories; I have too, this satis­faction, that I was never conquered but by a Sex which the gods them­selves [Page 148] could not resist, who, if they can, for their subjection, produce thus much beauty, they carry their justification in the cause of their fault, (if it be one) so that I commit none unless it be one to imitate those we adore. I will not particularize all the dispute betwixt them, since it serves but to acquaint you, that Hannibal remained unshaken in what he had done, and then came to me, and told me; I should Madam, with the lives of Blacius and Perolla, have given you too their liberties, were it not that the grant of the first of these has been too great an exasperati­on to my Army, to increase it at the same time by the last: I will there­fore hope for your pardon, if I obey you but by degrees, since other­wise I might hazard the losing of a power which is not so dear to me up­on any score, as out of a confidence it may serve you; yet still for your sake, they shall have no other Prisons but their Lodgings, and as soon as I have fashioned my Officers to approve of their liberty, I shall restore it to them with as much joy as I have lost my own. Though this hard Declaration (however moderated both by reasons and civilities) did extreamly perplex me, yet I only begg'd him to shorten their sufferings as much as might be, and to perfect what he had so generously begun, for I durst not be too earnest on so tender a subject, lest it might create his suspitions, that my love as much as duty occasioned my solicitations. 'Twas in this sort, (continued Izadora) that we were preserved, and truly when you consider all the accidents of this Adventure, you will acknowledge it to be a strange one: For that life I came to sacrifice to preserve Blacius's had been preserved by the sacrificing of his, and where I thought to have found my death, I found my safety, but by a way which made it odious to me: Perolla too, who came with the same design, found the same fate, and that sympathy, which till then we both gloried in, in that occa­sion was converted to our misfortune: what we singly might have effected, we joyntly destroyed; and my Father by having more friends than one, found he had never a one, and which was more intricate, we both came to lose our selves to save him, and we both saved our selves to lose him, and yet we ruine our selves all three, for Perolla by begging my life and I his, we leave Blacius to the execution, which made me resolve having so satisfied my gratitude, to dye with my Father, as a vindication of my duty, and as my generous friend has often since vowed unto me, he was determined to have born me company: On the other side, Hannibal to be more certain of his revenge, publishes a-Proclamation which debars him of it, and to end this miraculous day with a greater wonder than any which had happened in it, Izadora's Beauty, by ingendring as great a passion in the Carthaginians, as he had till then a detestation for our Sex, dissolves all our fears, and makes us return in triumph, where we thought never to have returned again. For Hannibal with all his Guards, and with the acclamations of an in­finite confluence of people accompanied me to my Fathers House. But alas (Sir) as soon as Blacius was informed how I had declined his de­liverance to purchase Perolla's, and knowing what I had done, but not what I had resolved to do, he contracted so violent a [...]atred against me, that doubtless I had in the effects of it, found my ruine, had not the apprehension of offending Hannibal silenc'd his fury, who every day gave me such fresh and high proofs of his passion, that had my felicity depended on his affection, I had been then as happy, as since I have been miserable. But in that which most of my Sex would have glo­ried, I found my Affliction, for I had given too visible proofs of my [Page 149] affection to Perolla to doubt the Carthaginean was ignorant of it, and consequently, I left my Fathers unlikelihood of liberty in the loss of his Rivals, whose actions too soon inform'd me, that his denying to give me Perolla's freedom, proceeded more from his jealousie than any apprehen­sion of distasting his Army, over which he had so great an Ascendent, that though it were compos'd of sundry Nations, and that they often en­dur'd miseries as great as their succesles, yet they never mutiny'd, but thought their sufferings too meritoriously recompenc'd, if in them their General might find his Glory, But Sir (continu'd the fair Izadora) to satis­fie my engagement and perhaps you in it, I will pass over all those addresses which Hannibal made me, and only inform you, his Passion grew to such a height, that he declin'd the Conquest of the World to conquer the unfortu­nate Izadora; and that Glory which he had hitherto so exceedingly ador'd, he now as much undervalu'd, delivering up the conduct of all Martial Affairs unto the generous Maherbal; and those Days and Nights which he esteem'd misemploy'd, if not projecting some new Conquest, visiting and regulating his Troops, provoking and improving their natural fierce­ness by Orations, and in performing all the functions of an expert Gene­ral, he now had the same opinion of, if not spent at my feet; in which dejected posture he often vow'd he took more satisfaction than in his for­mer Triumphs. But for my particular, I may justly profess, if I deriv'd any contentment from his expressions and submissions, 'twas only in see­ing by so strong an experiment, that my constancy was immoveable; I say, so strong an experiment, for Hannibal was a Prince capable to infuse a flame into the coldest heart; for he had a look so spiritual and full of viva­city, that no effeminate Beauty was comparable to it; his person and shape were nothing dissonant to his Face (which had not then receiv'd the blemish of being depriv'd of that Eye which soon after he lost in the Ma­rishes of Ancona) his fashion was majestick and without constraint, and he was endu'd with so singular an Eloquence, that you would have thought him an Athenian sooner than an Affrican, and rather bred up in those famous Schools than in a barbarous Camp. And though Hannibal him­self when he saw his fortune was expir'd, did alledge in open Senate when he pull'd down Gisgo out of the Pulpit of Orations for enveighing against a Peace then offer'd them by Scipio (whose succeeding Conquests gave him the sir-name of Affrican) that he never knew any way but force to suppress Offenders, yet in a subsequent Speech he unfolded such pregnant arguments in so transcending expressions and method, that the Senate soon perceiv'd he wrong'd his Eloquence to excuse his Passion: His Fortune also was proportionate to his other qualities, being, at four and twenty years old after the death of Amilcar and Asdrubal his Father and Uncle elected: General by the unanimous concurrence both of the S [...]nate and Army: His Conquests too were as early as his preferment, and he never apprehended a defeat, for his Victories had always so little of Fortune in them, that they could hardly proveinconstant. But I fear (said Iza­dora) that by my confidence of undertaking to give you this Character, I give you an ill one of him: I will therefore conclude, that he had no fault but an unconfin'd ambition, which made him embrace any means that conduc'd to his desires, and to conquer whatsoever oppos'd him, he never scrupl'd to sacrifice his virtue to his ends. This truly makes me believe, 'twas more upon the score of his wilfulness than his judgement that he persever'd in his passion for me. But after a long time in both our computations, he for his sufferings (as he term'd them) and I for his [Page 150] importunities, he came one evening to my Chamber as I had newly done reading a Letter of Perolla's, which contained such passionate expression for our cruel separation, that they infus'd into me a grief equal to his that writ them; the impression thereof was so evident at his coming in, that he soon perceiv'd it, and after a melancholly silence, to shew the interest he had in my sadness, he at last begg'd me to pardon him if he presum'd to en­quire the cause of it. You may easily Sir (I reply'd) find it out, when you remember that Blacius is yet a prisoner. If that (he answer'd) be the occasion, I shall find my satisfaction in your disorders, having power to redress them; and to confirm you in this truth, from this instant I declare him free: But Madam (he continu'd) interrupting that return I was about to make him for so transcendent an obligation) may not I fear your Love has as great a share in your melancholly as your Duty? That friendship (I reply'd) which I pay Perolla, is too pure to be deny'd, and he has done so many things for the preservation of him to whom I owe my duty, that without an offence to it, I may give him (as an acknowledgement) a share in my sadness. Call you that Madam (said Hannibal) but an acknow­ledgement, which made you on the Scaffold prefer his life before your Fathers? I did not (I reply'd) prefer him, but Gratitude before my Father. Ah Madam (he answer'd) take heed what you say, for if you so much undervalue yourself, as to believe any services can deserve your Gratitude; you will perhaps give me a title to that by Justice, which I never could expect but from your Mercy: For Perolla when he sav'd Bla­cius the first time, knew not who he was, and the second time did it to obey his Mistris, and offend his Enemy; But I not only knew, that in preserving him I preserv'd my mortall'st Enemy; and did it without any inducement, except a belief that it might be pleasing to you, but also sav'd that Perolla too, for whom you would have sacrific'd not only your Father, but your self, and by which I found I cherisht my own destruction: but my obe­dience was too perfect to stand upon Reason, or if it did, it found no­thing which more deserv'd that name than to obey you, Yes Madam, I consider'd my destruction too glorious to deplore it, if thereby I might settle your Contentment: Judge then (fair Izadora) if I have not cause to say, that there is some desparity between our Services, and whether I may not upon that belief expect, that you will at least commiserate the captivity of my Mind as much as of his Body, who certainly is un­worthy his felicity, if he can find room to entertain a grief, having the highest preservative from it, the blessing of your affection Sir (I re­ply'd) those obligations you have conferr'd on me are of so transcen­dent a nature, that to think to define, is to injure them; and if they have any defect, it proceeds only from their greatness, which by a necessity of gratitude casts me into as high a misery as they took me out of: Yes, generous Hanniball, I can truly say, that when I reflect upon your obli­gations, and find not only a want of power, but of hope to make them of proportionate return, I am struck with a melancholly equal to the joy I resented when you conferr'd them on me; and perhaps I should not lye if I profest that these thoughts are as large a cause of my sadness as any other. Would to the Gods Madam (said he) that your will to oblige me were but equal to your power, I could soon then exchange my fears for joys, in very contemplation whereof I quickly lose my self: Yes, fair Izadora, those that gave you the power to command, have given you too the power to reward, and I find should in an Hymeneal Crown an bundant recompence for my services and sufferings; this union should [Page 151] give the World Peace, or you the World, which is a far easier Conquest than that of Izadora, whom I durst promise to make Em­press of that by Arms, which by virtue she has so just a title to; for if only if only to obey the Carthagineans and to satisfie my own inclinati [...] I have already so far proceeded, she cannot doubt but to justifie her choice, and merit the glorious title of her Souldier, I would perform miracles almost as great as the cause of them. Though the words of this Declaration were very confident, yet the Declaration it self was not, for Hannibal, maugre his high Courage, was all the while it lasted as pale as guilt, and made it with so great a trembling and constraint, that he had as much of my pity, as of my anger; but after a little si­lence, which rather shew'd my resentment than irresolution, I told him, My apprehensions of being ungrateful, were now I perceive too well grounded, for that you do me the honour to mention, is not in my power to grant; I know this confession to a Prince less generous, might produce a contrary effect than I am confident 'twill in you, from whom I have recei­v'd such memorable obligations, hat I had rather have your disesteem by ac­knowledging a Truth, than continue your favour by a dissimulation which would render me unworthy of it: That Heart which is below the great Hannibal, is so given to another, that were it revocable, 'twere upon that score, if not on any other, unfit for your acceptance; for I must be un­constant to be kind, and I know you have a greater Passion for Virtue than for Beauty. Alas Madam (he eply'd) fetching a deep sigh) Why did you make such haste to give your self away, knowing the influence of your Eyes, which would create as many Servants as Beholders? Why did you prove unjust to one of them, to be the like to all the rest? for to give all to the happy Perolla is as great an injustice in one extream, as to reserve none for the residue of your Adorers is in the other. Sir (said I) you may easily perceive the great distinction I place between your and Perolla's actions, for by undertaking to reward his, I shew at how low a rate I value them; and by acknowledging that the impossibility of my satisfying what I owe you, is as great as my desires to pay it; I ac­quaint you with the largeness of my resentments, and do perhaps in my very ingratitude it self in some degree prove grateful. Ah Madam (he answer'd) do not lessen your power to the increase of your cruelty; nor render my services uncapable of reward, by esteeming them above any: No, fair Izadora, let me not find my ruine in that which was my duty, and shall be my ambition, let not my performances like bubbles encrease to nothing. But at last Hannibal (who perceiv'd that his replies did ra­ther confirm than lessen my constancy, and that he had unfortunately ta­ken a time which my melancholly made unfit for his addresses) told me; I should be too partial to my self, Madam, did I expect to suppress one flame in you, and create another any way but by perseverance; I will therefore no more importune you with my Passion, nor make use of any other Orators than my services and sufferings; neither shall I despair, but by their help to vanquish your disdain, for I find in my very fear an ample cause of hope, since the impressions of nature are as firm as those of our own acquisition, and Perolla by his services and glory having vanquisht your aversion to his blood, it gives me a confidence by the same ways to pro­duce as high effects, the disproportion being at worst but equally great. I will go then Madam, and peform things of such Virtue, that you shall be as unjust as I am miserable if you decline my Passion, and the world shall see, if Perolla exceeds me in any thing 'tis in happiness not in merit. [Page 152] Then without staying for any reply, he saluted me with an humility as great as he would have perswaded me his Passion was, and went directly to his own house, where immediately he gave orders to have the next morning his Army ready to move, for he would act some exploit, which should abundantly repair his unaccustomed idleness. This promise gave the generous Maherbal as high a contentment as the Effects of it the con­trary to the Romans; but after he had distributed those orders which were necessary for hasting his march, he began to reflect upon the impos­sibility of success in his passion, as long as I had so just and advantageous an opinion of Perolla; he therefore fancied, that if he could but create any suspitions in him of my con [...]tancy, it might furnish him with a means to destroy his, whose perfections he esteem'd its fault, because it was his own misfortune. But after he had projected a Million of ways to ac­complish this design, he seem'd none so probable as by corrupting Oristes, a Salapian of quality, in whose house Perolla was a Prisoner, and who by his exceeding civility, and the interest he took in all his troubles, had gotten a great share in my generous Friend.

This Oristes, Hannibal sent for that Night, and having brought him in­to his Cabinet, disclosed to him there his condition and desires, but in such pressing words and actions, that he easily perceiv'd how infinitely the Carthaginean was concern'd in the accomplishing of them; The Salapi­an, who had some weak principles of virtue, did a long time resist both Han­nibal's prayers and rewards; yet in the end, that little generosity he had shew'd, serv'd but to aggravate his offence, for he was vanquisht, and evidenc'd thereby he knew his duty, but would not practise it, for he promis'd the Carthaginean not only to undertake, but succeed in the de­sign; which fill'd him with so much satisfaction, that the effect of it were visible next morning when he past under my Window: for out of gal­lantry he made his Army march through Salapia, and in a military civili­ty saluted me with all those victorious Ensigns, which never before or since pay'd that homage to any but their General; and because those trium­phant Troops appeared that day by his expresscommands in all their mag­nificence, I shall not think it impertinent to mention their orders and num­bers, which though it be a thing out of my Sex's element, yet I took so particular notice of it then, that I am confident I shall in my relation abuse nothing but your patience. The first division consisted of 8000 Numidian Horse, led by the gallant Maherbal, whose Men was as full of virtue as courage, and whose actions sufficiently justified their Phisiog­nomy: These Troops methought relisht something of their Commander, and were generally so well Armed and Horst, that they seem'd rather go­ing to a Triumph than a Battel. After these Hannibal appeared environ'd by a thousand young Carthagineans, which he had elected for his Guards, and followed by 4000 Foot, (all Affricans.) I must do him the right to acknowledge, that he had so noble a fierceness in his Armour, that though I had never seen him I should yet have taken him for the Gene­ral; and certainly he was no friend to his good Meene, when he shew'd himself out of an Army. These Affricans resigned their places to Three and thirty great Elephants (all that then were left) which had towers of Wood upon their Backs, and so not onely carried but fortified their Riders. After these follow'd 4000 Mules and Horses, the most of them loaden with so many several Engines of Battery, that I admir'd as much at the wickedness as at the ingenuity of Men, which could find such several ways to destroy one another. These were no sooner past [Page 153] but their appear'd 10000 Guiles, 6000 Lygurians, and 4000 Grecians, all lead by Commanders of their own Nations, and fighting under Carthaginean Colours, more for Hannibal's Fame than his pay; These Squadrons had so warlike and haughty a march, that it shew'd how eager and ambitious they were of Battel. The last divisions consisted of 8000 Horse, 4000 of which were Men at Arms, and all Gaules, led by the valiant Britogentrix, and the other 4000 were Iberians, under the com­mands of Mircal and Barmocal, who brought up the Rear of this great Army, which was compos'd almost of all Nations but those it was going to conquer. I must confess, this sight made me excuse that haughtiness of which Hannibal was esteem'd guilty, for who could have been so much a Philosopher, as not to be proud of having so many thousand gallant Men ready to sacrifice themselves at his commnad? but my admiration as it was not greater than my fear for the Romans, and that reflection at last lead me to a joy which I shall not scruple to reveal, since if it pro­ceeded from a want of courage, it did not from a want of love: 'Twas Sir ( Izadora continu'd) occasioned at Perolla's being a Prisoner; for I could not consider his valor and the endless subjects it was to be employ­ed against, but I found my satisfaction in that which had been my trou­ble, and was more pleased that Hannibal had deny'd me his liberty than I should have been in his obedience; for I could no more deplore my ge­nerous Friends sufferings, since it procur'd his safety, than I could any mans condition who took Physick but to be well. I must not omit to tell you, that every common Soldier of this vast Body carry'd a branch of Lawrel, their confidence being so great, that they wore the reward of victory before they obtain'd it. 'Twas with this Army that Hannibal march'd first to Tarentum, where though he found a vigorous resistance, yet the valor of the Defendants serv'd only to set off his own the better, for he carry'd it by storm, and in that action perform'd so much of the Sol­dier as well as of the General, that he deriv'd his success as much from his courage as his conduct. I know (continu'd Izadora) the Romans affirm that Nico and Philomenes betray'd that great City to him, but I know too, that both of them being kill'd not long after in the be­sieging of Capua, they sealed their innocency with their last breath, and vow'd that the Carthaginean civility in curing these wounds he had re­ceived in being made their Prisoners, and the Romans ingratitude in terming their misfortune their treachery, made them in revenge aban­don the Eagles, and serve under Hannibal's Ensigns, who though he had taken the Town, yet the Castle which stood upon the point of the Har­bor did resolutely defend it self: and well it might, for the Carthagi­ginean having no Ships to hinder their relief, every Easterly Wind the Grecians supply'd it with Men and Victuals; but at last, when all Hannibal's Engineers could not find a way to block it up, he himself did; for having taken good store of Gallies, in the Key of Tarentum, and not being able by Sea to bring them out of Harbor, because the Castle com­manded all the streights and passages, he caus'd the Gallies with an admirable celerity and art to be put upon Carts, and so carried them by Land into the Sea, and in that miraculous manner besieged them round, which the Romans discerning, not long after yielded. I have told you (said Izadora) this particular, since it never had a president, or an imi­tation, and because it dejected the Senate more than the loss of a Bat­tel, by finding they had to deal with an Enemy whose industry per­verted the very order of nature, making one Element bear the burthen [Page 154] and do the office of another. From thence he went into Lucania, where i [...] a bloody of Battel, he defeated Marcus Centineus, who publishing aloud, that he loved the Senate and his Honour too well to bring them news that his Army was lost, resolutely thrusting himself into the midst of the Car­thaginians, where he found upon the points of a thousand Swords the cure of that days misfortune. From this fatal Field, he carried his victorious Troops into Apulia, where by a stratagem too intricate and te­dious to be related he reduc'd Praetor Fabius's Army, from Twenty to Two thousand: But to qualifie these high successes he receiv'd advertise­ment that both the Consuls were set down before Capua, and by the cele­rity of their approaches, had already so straitned it, that unless he brought the place an immediate relief, it would be past any. These pressing Letters made him carry the War into Campania, where after he had a little refresh'd himself, he offer'd the Consuls Battel, who as readily accepted it, for the Roman Empire was then in too desperate a sickness to try a desperate Cure. That day much of those fertile Plains were moystned with Blood; and though Hannibal perfor [...]'d all the parts of an excel­lent General, and of a valiant Soldier, yet it was darkness and not victo­ry which ended the dispute. The next morning as soon as it was light, Hannibal again drew his Army in Battalia, but the Consuls, who had not (by the precedent days loss) Men enough to keep the Field and Trenchestoo, contented themselves to continue in the latter; so that thereby they made his fortune the more admirable; for he was Conqueror without fighting, because he won the Battel the day after it was fought. But after he had by many attempts endeavor'd to relieve his Confederates, and found, that though he besieg'd the Romans, yet that they did the like to the Capuans, the Consuls having both victuall'd and fortify'd themselves sufficiently, he resolv'd to effect that by diversion which he could not by force, and therefore past silently the River Vulturnus, and crossing with wonderful expedition the Countreys of the Sidicinians, Artifanians, Cassinians and Fregellans, he in seven days presented himself before the magnificent Walls of Rome, and had done it much sooner, had not the Fregillans pull'd down the Bridge at the River Lyris, and thereby much retarded his march; and though this was meerly a stratagem of War, yet he attributed it to a gallantry of his Passion; for in a Letter he sent me, it relisht more of Izadora's Soldier to take Rome than relieve Capua. It is not difficult to believe that the Romans, who did fear to hear of Hannibal, did much more so to see him at their Gates, especially being fol­low'd by a triumphant Army; But for all his using such unimaginable di­ligence, the Senate receiv'd secret advice of his designs. Never Rome was fill'd with so universal a Terror as then, no not when the Gaules under the valiant Breunus, conquer'd all of it but the Capitol, and when the Forum ran with streams of the Senates and Patricians Blood. This great consternation had no influence upon any but the people, the Senate still maintaining that gravity and courage which was their nature as much as practice; but at the length the common fear was well silenc'd by the arrival of Fulvius Flaccus (one of the Consuls that had besieg'd Capua) who being sent for to defend Rome, was come almost as soon as Hanni­bal, and brought with him 15000 of the select Legionaries, and a thou­sand choice Men at Arms. That which gave him the happiness of coming so opportunely, was, not only the timely intelligence was sent him, but also passing through Countries that were his friends, he receiv'd none of those impediments which the Carthaginean met with. The Senate sent [Page 155] the Carthaginian met with. The Senate sent for one of the Consuls to please the People, and but for one, not to please Hannibal, who might have too much glory'd to have made them neglect their Conquests for their safeties. The Consul Flaccus being inform'd, that the next morning the enemy intended to storm Rome, resolv'd (with the permission of the Senate) to make a Battel, Hannibal's only way to the assault, decla­ring generously, that 'twas not fit the Empire of the World should fall like a common City, but if the expiration of it were now arriv'd, 'twere requisite its ruine should shew its greatness, and that those which com­pos'd it should dye with it. The day therefore no sooner began to appear, but the valiant Consul drew out his Army, which with those he brought, and those Romans that voluntarily came under his Ensigns, consisted of 50000 Men. Hannibal on the other side about the same instant, drew his Soldiers out of their Camp, but he admir'd when instead of seeing the Walls cover'd with his Enemies, he perceiv'd the Fields were so; but his wonder was soon converted into joy, to observe that Rome would fall like her self, and that he should have to deal with those upon even terms, who he had suspected would give him more trouble to joyn with, than to conquer them; and to lose no time, he commanded the Trumpets, the Clairons, and all the other Musick of War, to give the signal of Bat­tel, which no sooner was heard, than both these great Bodies began to move with resolution worthy their Quarrel, the one fighting to win the Empire of the World, and the other to keep it. But just as they were about to begin that fatal Tragedy, the Sun (which till then had shone very bright) began to hide it self, as perhaps detesting to look upon so many intended Murders; the whole face of the Heaven was in an instant obscur'd with a thick darkness; the Thunder did hideously grumble; the winds made a noise, as if they had all broken loose out of their Caves, and the Clouds melted so fast, that many thought the Lightnings had dissolv'd them, and as many admir'd how so much fire could avoid quenching in so much water: I cannot better describe the horror of this day, then by the effects it produced, which were, that it constrain'd the Consul and Hannibal to return with their Armies into their several Camps; for Flaccus too had pitch'd his Tents in a great field some two furlongs from the Temple of Hercules, lest Hannibals being before Rome should look like besieging it, which none could truly say he did, whilst there was a Roman betwixt him and the City. But that which afflicted Hannibal, as much as this miraculous separation, which he then termed but a suspension of his victory, was an advertisement he received by his Spies, that the Senate had not only since his coming sent certain Com­panies with flying Ensigns to the recruit of their Legions in Spain, but also had sold those very fields on which he Campt, at a higher rate, thau they were valu'd at before his being possest of them; In revenge whereof, he caus'd all the rich Shops in the Forum, to be sold by a publique Cryer. But sir, (said Izadora) that which made the precedent storm so absolutely a wonder, was, that as soon as Flaccus and Hanni­bal were returned into their Camps, the day prov'd so very fair, and the night too, that the Carthaginian was proud with a belief, that th [...] next visit of the Sun, would unavoidably decide his Fate; but there­in also he was deluded, for the succeeding day, was but a perfect repe­tition of the preceding, as well for the Miracle, as for the separation of the two Armies, onely the Tyber was with those Cataracts of Rain, so ex­ceedingly swell'd, that she overflow'd her Banks, and had like to have [Page 156] reveng'd all the Romans losses by the ruine of Hannibals Army; but he by a timely care remov'd his Tents to a higher ground, and thereby avoided an Enemy, which he could not resist. I remember, I have been told, that several private persons in Rome (for the Senate detested to seem to derive any advantage, but from their Arms) perform'd many sacrifices to the Nymphs and Nayades of Tyber for endeavouring their revenge, and for making Hannibal fly out of his Camp, which never any Romans thitherto had done.

I must now, generous Spartacus, acquaint you with a particular which few have heard, and fewer have believ'd, in which last number, I per­haps include my self; but yet I shall tell it you, since it is a part of that story you seem so much concern'd in: Blacius, (according to Hannibal's promise to me) being set at liberty, and understanding of Hannibal's design upon Rome, and of the continuance of his passion, com­manded me to desire him, by the pressingst conju [...]ations a Letter was capable of, to carry his Arms to any other place, rather than to the de­struction of that City, where I had my Birth, with this hope, that if my Prayers were successful, it would free Rome from an imminent ruine, and if they were not, 'twould prove a good rise to free me from his ad­dresses: for he abhorr'd an allyance with Hannibal, as highly as with Pe­rolla and detested the Enemy of his Countrey as much as of his Fami­ly. I immediately obey'd Blacius, as much by inclination as by duty, and sent a post away with a Letter to the Carthaginian, which because 'twas my own, I did not think it worthy the remembring: my Express came to him in the midst of his fury for these two unfortunate separati­ons, and of his Resolves the next morning, if his Souldiers could not march, they should swim to a Victory; but as soon as he had read my Letter, he divested himself of all his rage, and gave immediate Orders to have his Army the next day ready to march away, contenting himself (as he gave it out) that he had made Rome tremble, and necessitated the gods to a double miracle for her safety (that of the Inundations, and that of his not taking her:) But yet to satisfy the Avarice and Suffer­ings of his Soldiers, he led them the direct way to the Grove of Fe­ro [...], where stood a Temple of inestimable Riches, all which he expos'd to their pillage, and from thence return'd me by my Messenger, this An­swer to my Letter;

AFter Hannibal's retreat from Rome, Flaccus return'd to Capua to his Colleague Appius Clodius, and the Capuans, who had endur'd miseries almost sufficient for the punishment of their Rebel [...]i­on observing the Consul, was not follow'd by the Carthaginian [Page 157] Army, found it high time to think upon their securities; in order where­unto they assembled the Senate, where after a serious debate, Vibius (Uncle to Perolla) perceiving that the major part inclin'd to submit un­to the Roman Mercy, in an excellent Oration befought them, rather to dye by their own hands, and so rob their Enemies of the Glory of full Con­quest, by contributing to their own ruine, and make Hannibal know by so noble a fall, that the preserving of such generous friends, had been more worthy his Arms, than the taking of that which he but attempted; that it was more resembling the antient splendor of Capua, to perform what might rather create the Romans admiration than their pity, that for his own particular, he esteem'd no Fate so bad, as to make up a part of Claudius and Flaccus's Triumph, which was the best condition they could expect by a surrender; therefore all those who were gallant enough to expire with their liberty, he invited to go with him, and take their share of a Cup, which should exempt them for ever from the cruelties and vicissitudes of Fortune. After he had finished these words, he saluted the Senate with an admirable constancy, and being follow'd by seven and twenty Senators, he went directly home, where they all hasted to pledge that fatal health which he began, having no fears in their deaths, but that the Romans should possess Capua before they were acted. I have told you (said Izadora) this Tragedy, not only because it was the dis­course and admiration of the whole World, but also because the chief Actor of it had so near a relation to my generous Friend, the rest of the Senate immediately submitted to the Consuls, and found from Flaccus, that death with ignominy, which they might have given themselves with Glory. Hannibal to revenge his dead Friends, perform'd many great ex­ploits in the Countreys of the Brutians and Lucanians, where he sacrific'd to appease their Manes above ten thousand Romans, and then the season being unfit for action, he return'd to this City, and in a Complement to me, declin'd a Triumphant Entry, because the chiefest ornaments of it, were to have been compos'd of the spoils of my Countrey.

When the faithful Symander was (to Callimachus) thus obeying his dear Masters Commands, they both perceiv'd him coming towards them, accompanied with one of the Priests of Venus, who was come to adver­tise his Superior, that the Sacrifices which are usually offer'd to appease the incens'd Deity, and to break the Oracles unaccustom'd silence, onely expected his presence to be performed. He immediately obey'd the Sum­mons, though he had much rather employ'd his time in hearing of Syman­der, whose Relations so charm'd him, that it almost darkened his Piety; but that he might return the sooner to so pleasing an entertainment, he took Artabanes by the hand, and led him to be an assistant to those Ceremonies, which were unavoidably to be perform'd, before he could learn his Fate,

PARTHENISSA.
THE FIRST PART.
BOOK VI.

THE Sacrifice being finisht, and Callimachus having perfectly consider'd the Prophetical parts of the Victims, assured all the Assistants, that the Deity was well pleased with their Devotions, but that he could not as yet discover any Maxim in Divination, which might afford a certainty, that within few days, the Oracle should be restored to the liberty of speaking. Artabanes was extreamly troubled with this belief, and the better to entertain those thoughts it created, he withdrew himself into a solitude which that morning he had disco­vered, and which was indeed a place fit to cherish so deep a melancholly as his: it was in a Valley all over-hung with lofty Trees, whose tops were so interwoven by the help of Nature onely, that they rather form­ed an obscurity than a shade; it was watred too with many clear Foun­tains, whose sad murmur seemed to bear our unfortunate Lover compa­ny, and to have a sense of his miseries: but this forlorn retirement was so far from the Temple, that Artabanes (whose natural strength was ve­ry much impaired by an internal grief which by degrees consumed him) was constrained to make use of his Horse to return thither, where he was no sooner come, then having ty'd him to a Tree, he flung himself upon the grass, and after a serious reflexion on his past misfortunes, and pre­sent condition, he cryed out, Great gods, do you take delight in cruelty, that you enjoyn me to live after a loss, which makes my life my torment? or are you ignorant that it lies not in your power (in this life) to re­pair the miseries you have cast upon me in it? if not one of these, why did you command me to live, when I had almost found in my resolution my cure? and enjoyn me to receive my Fate from this Oracle, on which at the same instant, you impos'd an extraordinary silence; if you intend­ed my ruine, why do you bring your power in question by not effect­ing it, and if you design'd my felicity, why did you take Parthenissa to you? if you were resolv'd upon the former, why did you bestow on me so great a Heart? and if you meant the latter, why did you give me so great a Constancy? Shall I find Courage is as high a Curse to me, as it is a Blessing to others? and shall I find in Virtue a greater torment than ever you inflicted for the punishment of Vice? Great gods! (he conti­nued fetching a deep sigh) I have for all this obeyed you, when it was against my reas [...]n, when it was against my inclination, and yet all the re­ward I beg of you for so painful an obedience, is, that by a mark of your [Page 159] fury, I may receive one of your Love: but if your Thunder be kept for the wicked, and not the unfortunate, let your Oracle command me to dye, this hand (when you have taken off the impiety) shall be the joyful Executioner of your sentence, and by one generous blow send me to that union in the other World, which it seemed you thought me un­worthy of in this. Whilst Artabanes was in these expostulations, Calli­machus had led Symander into that Walk, in which he had begun his re­lations, and where he desired him (with an impatience that manifested his concernment) to prosecute them, which the faithful Servant willing­ly undertook, and having begged Callimachus's pardon, for dwelling so long on a story, not essential to his Princes, which yet he believed high­ly worth the relation, and minded him, that he was interrupted at Han­nibals return unto Salapia, and that he always spoke the fair Izadora's words, thus continued her Adventures.

PARTHENISSA.
THE SECOND PART.
BOOK I.

PVblius Cornelius Scipio, after his subduing of Spain, went with two Quinquereme Gallies privately into Africk, to Syphax that great Numidian King, who being a Neighbour to his new, and to his intended Conquests, he Courted to declare for the Romans, whose Victories were so recent, that though at the same instant Asdrubal was sent from Carthage to sol­licite his friendship for their Empire, yet he at last de­clared for the Roman, and protested to their General, that upon his arrival there, he would join Interest and Armies with him. Scipio on this assurance being chosen Consul, hastens into Africk; but as he was in Sicily, ready for his intended Expedition, he receives Ambassadors from Syphax, which in­form'd him, though not in positive terms, yet obliquely of his change. The Consul not only kept this disaster secret, lest if it had been divulg'd, the Senate, and his Soldiers fears, might have put a period to his Voyage be­fore it began, but gave out that Syphax had sent purposely to accelerate his Landing, and to acquaint him, if he protracted the time, he was so in­tent upon the War, that he would upon his own score begin it. With this joyful Declaration, the Roman Army set Sail from Lilibeum: But while they are crossing the Mediterranean Sea, it will not be amiss to tell you the cause of this barbarous Kings inconstancy. The same Asdrubal, to whom lately he had refus'd his friendship, had a Daughter of such excellent beau­ty, that Syphax (who was not unapt to receive the flames of Love) so abundantly admitted those which the fair Sophonisba's eyes inspir'd, that it made him not only abandon his Faith, but his Interest too; and to purchase her (for she was bought) he offer'd to decline the Romans, and de­clare himself Carthaginian. This motion on so emergent a necessity was greedily embrac'd, and Sophonisba deliver'd up a Sacrifice for the pub­lick advantage. For it is certain, the Numidian King had nothing consi­derable but his Crown; and she by that fatal Marriage declin'd Massanissa, to whom she was contracted; a Prince of so much virtue, and so perfectly bles [...] with the gifts of Nature, that I may truly say Sophonisba's preferment was her ruine. This Massanissa, was the Son of Gala, (Surnamed the Good) King of the Massesily; and though he were very young, yet by his great courage and wisdom he recover'd his Fathers Kingdom, (involv'd in a dangerous and intricate Rebellion) and by wayes which made all the world acknowledge him as worthy of it, as by his Title. His next care was to secure his Right, (both by Succession and Conquest:) To effect [Page 194] which, and for the satisfying his inclination, he made his Addresses to the fair Sophonisba, whose Father ( Asdrubal) had so large an interest in Car­thage, that whosoever obtain'd his Alliance, might be said thereby to be Ally'd to that Empire. The Title of a Queen, and the Felicity of such a Husband, so pleas'd the Father and the Daughter, that the Marriage was as soon agreed upon as motion'd; and the more to endear it to the Cartha­ginians, it was resolv'd that a Contract should be perfected, but before the consummation of the Nuptials, Massanissa should go in person with an Ar­my into Spain, under his design'd Father-in-law, which the young Prince (more troubled to abandon his Mistriss, than his Kingdom) perform'd, and in that Expedition acted things of so transcendent virtue, that Carthage judg'd his Merit, without his Title, worthy the admirable Sophonisba; but Asdrubal having undertaken that fatal Expedition, (being himself no ex­cellent Captain) met with disasters and oppositions, which would have render'd his being otherwise of no great advantage; for he began to move presently after the famous Battel of Metaurus, in which I may say Spain was conquer'd in Italy, for there all the Spanish Hostages were taken, that Asdrubal the Son of Amilcar had brought with him out of that Coun­trey, and by which he kept that Wa [...]like Nation in more awe, than by his Garisons or Army. This success, made the Spaniards consider the Romans as the Rising Sun, and consequently adore the, so that his Levying an Ar­my, prov'd more advantageous to his Enemies, than his Friends; for eve­ry day they abandon'd his Ensigns in whole Troops, and put themselves under Scipio's, who was a General, that in Courage, Patience, and Conduct, was hardly to be equal'd. In a word, in one Summer Asdrubal lost all Spain, and Massanissa (perhaps glad of any subject which might return him to Sophonisba) joyfully abandon'd a great Kingdom to his Enemies, as ho­ping in her embraces to lose all thoughts of misfortune; but he too soon found his error, for in his absence Syphax (as I told you) had seen Sopho­nisba, and so passionately admir'd her, that upon his promise to the Cartha­ginians not only of relinquishing Scipio, (who was preparing to invade their Countrey) but to bring them an Army of 100000 Men; they made of a particular Alliance, a publick Concernment, and in spite of Asdrubal and Massanissa, (who was as much his Rivals Superior in Virtue, as he was his in Power) gave that barbarous King the fair Sophonisba; and Syphax no sooner was in possession of his felicity, than proportioning Massanissa's resentments by the greatness of his loss, resolv'd to take from him the pow­er of acting them. This particular Malice he made pass at Carthage for an Act of publick Security, it being a folly (as great as the injustice) to trust an offended Enemy with a Kingdom; therefore the Senate not only approv'd of their new Allies design, but furnish'd him with additional For­ces, to expel the unfortunate Massanissa out of his Countrey, which Syphax soon effected, his Rivals virtue yielding to his numbers: But though Mas­sanissa lost his Crown, yet did he not either his Courage or Judgement; the first was too great to sit down with such an affront to his Passion, and his Right; and the latter lead him to offer his service to Scipio, who ha­ving found how considerable an Enemy he had been, doubted not but he would prove a resembling Friend: wherein he was not deceiv'd; for the Consul having acquainted him from Lilibeum, (where he shipt his Army) that he would Land at the Promontory of Apollo, he found Massanissa there with a gallant Body of Horse ready to join with him. Their first Action was to cut off 500 Horse, sent out of Carthage, to interrupt the Romans descent, which Massanissa perform'd as an earnest of his future Ser­vices. [Page 195] The next was against Hanno, a young Carthaginian Gentleman, of as little experience as years, who with 4000 select Horse, lay at a Town of importance, call'd Salera. This hasty Commander Massanissa (by bra­ving him at his very Gates) toll'd out into an Ambush, then cut him (with his small Army) in pieces, and in the heat of the pursuit, enter'd the Town, with some few Run-aways, which presently he became Master of. This shews that Scipio gain'd by the loss of Syphax, for by his de­fection, he sent him a friend, whose gallantry was more considerable than the others Forces. From Salera they march'd to besiege Vtica, a place con­siderable for its strength and scituation, but much more for the virtue of the Defenders, which indeed was such, that though it were the first Town attempted, yet it was the last taken; and the Consul would have given his hopes of winning it, to avoid the disgrace he apprehended of having sate down before it; but Syphax and Asdrubal (whom the Carthaginians had made their General) by approaching with two Armies, which consist­ed of near 80000 Foot, and 13000 Horse, gave him an honourable pre­tence of abandoning Vtica, which he readily embrac'd, but the Winter was so far advanc'd, that the three Generals did nothing in it, but for­tify their several Camps, which were not seven miles assunder; that of the Romans being excellently provided for, by the providence and libe­rality of Massanissa, who Reigned in his Subjects, though not over them: but the Spring being come, Scipio, who believ'd the natural inconstancy of the Affricans, the tediousness of a winter Camp, the hazard of a War, whose Prologue had been unsuccessful, and perhaps the society of a Wife, might be plentiful motives to induce Syphax to decline Carthage, by sitting a Neuter, sent Ambassadors to him for that effect, with hope, that if they succeeded not, yet at least the Treaty would draw him into a jea­lousie with his new friends. The Numidian King receiv'd the Ambassa­dors with a magnificence that evinc'd they were not unwelcome, and sent them back to Scipio with this motion: That if the Romans would re­turn out of Affrick, the Carthaginians should do the like out of Europe. But the Consul receiv'd a more pleasing and advantagious intelligence than this, though brought by the same persons, which was, that both the Carthaginian and Numidian Camp were so ill intrencht, and their Hutts cover'd with such combustible stuff, that it were a thing of as much ease, as glory, to end the War in one night; in brief, Scipio held on the Trea­ty till such time as he had perfectly instructed himself in the truth of this information, and the facility of performing it, both which being con­vinc'd of, one morning he commanded his Ambassadors to return, and sent Syphax and Asdrubal word, that 'twas in vain any longer to conti­nue the Treaty, since he found all his Army unanimously bent to make them yield to their Mercy, or their Swords; This message blasted the two Generals like Lightning, for they had so fed themselves with the assurance of Peace, that the loss of that hope appear'd as great a misfortune to them, as if they had lost a certainty; but at last making Virtue of Necessity, they consol'd one another with mutual assurances, that as Scipio follow'd the steps of Marcus Atilius, so he would his Fate; but the same night, the Romans, who built their confidence upon a firmer foundation than Hope and Prophecies divided their Army, one halfe Massanissa and Lelius, the General of their Horse commanded; these were sent against Syphax's Camp, to whom Massanissa was an Enemy by the two most enflaming provocations, of a successful Rival, both in Love and Empire; the other, Scipio himself led; The first had orders to assault the Numidians, [Page 196] who lay a Mile behind the Carthaginians, lest if Asdrubal's Camp were first on fire, it might be thought a design, and not a mischance. Massanissa and Lelius march'd two hours before the Consul, and before day, so exactly executed their instructions, that all Syphax's Camp was in a general Flame in the sight of Asdrubal's, who attributing it to some disaster (for they could not fancy the Romans would attempt the remotest, and so engage them­selves between two Armies) ran without Arms or Order, to the relief of their friends; but their Charity was their ruine, for the Roman Horse of Scipio's Division, cut off all those which ran out of the Camp, and the Legions assaulting those in it, soon kindled as great fire there, as that they were deploring, and going to extinguish. The confusion, horror, and execution was transcendent, and though in both places the flame diffus'd it self above four miles, yet 'tis thought there was bloud enough spilt to have quencht it; for there we killed and destroyed (what by the Flame, what by the Sword) above 80000, and about 8000 were taken prisoners; 2000 Foot, and 500 Horse were all the serviceable Forces that escaped, in which number were the two unfortunate Generals, Never did Affrick receive a resembling misfortune, neither did all their Hannibal's Victories inspire them with a joy proportionate to the vastness of their grief, and astonishment for this loss. But in this high Misery, the Barcinian Faction shew'd a spirit unworthy of it, and not only absolutely oppos'd the sending for Hannibal out of Italy; (which they said would be a greater victory to the Romans, than that they had so lately won) but undertook in few days (if one of their Family might be General) to raise an Army, that at least should not be kill'd like Sacrifices (without resistance) that perhaps, might make the Romans acknowledge a succession of victories, was as well the way to Carthage as to Rome, and that none must present themselves before her Walls, but they must be loaden with Lawrels as much as Arms. This motion joy'd, and confounded the Senate; but the result of their dispute was, that not to discontent the Barcinian faction, lest they might lose Hannibal, they resolv'd not to recal him; and not to dis­content Asdrubal lest they might lose Syphax, they gave Asdrubal again the Command of the Affrican War, sent Sophonisba as Embassadress from her Countrey, to her Husband, to implore him not to abandon them, when their condition render'd his friendship an action of Charity, as well as [...]nterest; and besought the Barcinian Princes, by joyning their power and affections with Asdrubal, to manifest, that they lov'd the Common­wealth more than they hated their Enemy. In brief, Syphax vanquish'd with the abundant Prayers and Tears of the fair Sophonisba, and the Bar­cinians mov'd with the intreaties and danger of Carthage, so well improv'd the time, that in 30 days, they rais'd 30000 Men for Asdrubal, who resol­ving to repair or repeat his disgrace, march'd directly towards Vtica, which Scipio, (more intent to vindicate his Honour, than increase his Conquest) had again besieg'd, which the second time he was necessitated to leave, and in a bloudy Battel, overcame Syphax and his Father-in-law, as absolutely by Courage, as he had formerly by Policy; the last flying to Carthage, and the other (follow'd soon after by his Queen) into his own Kingdom. The Consul to husband this victory better than the for­mer, resolv'd himself to attempt Carthage, (the Rome of Affrick sent a se­lect number to continue the Siege of Vtica, and enjoyn'd Massanissa, with all his Numidians, and some of the Romans under Lelius, to prosecute Sy­phax. Scipio with his Division, took many Towns by his Name, and by his Arms, and at last presented himself before that stately City, which [Page 197] had so long been a dangerous Rival unto his: Tunis, a great Town in the prospect of Carthage, he took by Assault; but as he was going to try his fortune upon her Neighbor and Mistriss, he was forc'd to alter his design, by the Carthaginians sending out their Fleet to destroy his, that lay ill­mann'd before Vtica. By hasty marches therefore he came thither, and so well animated his Soldiers, and secur'd his Gallies, that his Enemies only return'd to Carthage with six of his Ships, where their Triumph was much greater than their Victory. In the mean while Massanissa, carry'd by the wings of Love, Empire, and Revenge, came with his Army into Nu­midia, where the Masesilii, who had never been but his Subjects, now publickly declar'd themselves so, and joyning their Arms to their Prince's, march'd resolutely against Syphax, who with 50000 Foot, and 10000 Horse, was coming to dispute his Queen and his Kingdom: Massanissa and Lelius joyfully accepted the Battel, especially the first, who thought the ways to Empire, and fruition, were but the same. Syphax taught his Men to fight in the Roman order, but not being able to give them Roman Hearts, he lost his Army and his Liberty, to those that practis'd the former, and possess'd the latter. Massanissa justly pleas'd with this purchase, and being one who knew as well how to prosecute, as win a Victory, desir'd Lelius to follow to Cirta, the Metropolis of Numidia, whether he went be­fore with all the Horse, and his great Prisoner: The Citizens upon the Conqueror's approach (who perhaps, hated the King, as much as an un­successful Cause) open'd their Gates, where the first object that saluted his Eyes, was the fair Sophonisba, not as a Tryumphant Mistris, but an implo­ring Prisoner: Massanissa, who consider'd her, and not her condition, a­lighting from his Horse, and imitating her posture, desir'd her to believe, her Empire was as great where he commanded, as where Syphax did, and begg'd her, if she doubted so perfect a Truth, to evince it by some Com­mands. She told him, that her inconstancy made her as little merit as de­sire obligations from him, that had she not thought it a crime to have destroyed her self, by any thing, but by the sentence of his offended Love, she had, by becoming her own Executioner, punisht her inconstancy and misfortune (the former being the latter) and not liv'd to be so publique a spectacle of Fortune's mutability; that since he was pleas'd to pardon a sin that was its own punishment, she besought him, till her repentance for her fault, had created in him desires of affection, or the greatness of it, desires of Revenge, that he would preserve her from the Romans power. Her Youth and admirable Beauty, made so deep an impression in Massa­nissa's heart; that not only he granted her request, but pardon'd her past inconstancy, and to take from the Romans all hopes of such a Prisoner, he seemingly, or really at that instant marry'd her.

But Lelius upon his arrival, was in so great a fury, that he had like to have been the destruction of the Nuptials, by being the destroyer of the Bride; but Massanissa knew so well how to humble himself before that proud Roman, and to represent, that she had always been his Wife, though married to Syphax; that he was content to suspend all things, till they return'd to the Consul, which (after the setling that great King­dom) they soon did; There was no common joy in the Roman Camp at the arrival of so great a friend a Conqueror, and so great an Enemy a Prisoner; the first having by Scipio receiv'd in publique a just and am­ple commendation, and acknowledgement for his transcendent obliga­tions on this Empire; the last was strictly examined, what had induc'd him to embrace the Carthaginian Quarrel, having so professedly engag'd [Page 198] himself in the Roman; to which he resolutely answer'd, 'twas the charms of his Wife, which truth he was confident e're long, a resembling operation on Massanissa, would abundantly confirm. Whether Syphax spoke this really, or in revenge, I cannot tell, but his assertion had so powerful an influence on the Consul: that taking Massanissa aside, he told him inge­nuously, the Romans had an undeniable Title to Sophonisba's Life, whom he consider'd as the efficient cause of these Wars, and therefore conjur'd him, not to ruine the reward of so great services, by committing as great a Crime, which his detention of his new Wife, did, and would appear, in his, and the Senates judgement. Massanissa blusht and wept, but fi­nally begg'd some time to work on his inclination, to submit unto his du­ty; this civil request had the desir'd return, and Massanissa being retir'd into his Tent, spent an hour in an Agony, whose torments nothing but an unfortunate Lover is capable to imagine: but at length, after a seri­ous reflection, that by denying her, he should deliver both himself and Sophonisba, into the Roman hands, and perhaps believing, if she had a real passion for him, that her own Fate would be the less bitter, by his not being involv'd in it, and if she had not, the loss was the more tollerable; he determin'd to preserve her in his memory, that he could not in his embraces, and sending for an exquisite poison, he commanded one of his Domesticks to present it from him to Sophonisba, as the only way he had left to keep his word, and her from the Romans. The fair Queen undauntedly taking the fatal Cup, bid the Messenger to tell his Lord, that to manifest, nothing which came from him was unwelcome, she would receive from him the present of her Fate; which having drank, she further enjoyn'd him to beg Massanissa, that if the actions of her life, had impair'd her in his first affection; that the resoluteness of her death, might restore it to its former luster, and that she might live in, though not with him: then casting her self upon her Bed, an eternal darkness soon clos'd up the fairest Lights which ever shin'd in Affrick, to which barbarous Countrey I had not confin'd my similitude, had the fair Sophonisba been as constant in her Love, as in her Death. This Tra­gedy, and the sad influence it had on Massanissa, no sooner reacht the Consuls knowledge, than he sent for him, and having drawn all his Ar­my in Battalia, in their sight, to repair the having taken from him Syphax's Wife, he gave him Syphax's Kingdom, saluted him by the name of King, pre­sented him with a Crown of Gold, and by large Elogies on his noble acti­ons, dry'd up his Tears. This truly was the best Cordial, and those clouds of grief, by so admirable a Sun-shine of prosperity, were soon dissipated, and he with the Romans march'd to the Siege of Carthage, from whence, they having heard of Syphax's defeat, instead of sending armed Troops to meet them, they sent out old Hanno with the Princes of his Faction, who prostrating themselves on the ground, not only kist Scipio's feet, but the feet of those that sate in Counsel with him, to whom they acknowledg'd they had unjustly broken the Peace betwixt Rome and Car­thage, which they besought might continue as a monument of their mer­cy, and in a resembling series of baseness, begg'd Peace on terms, though as low as those Spirits that implor'd it. Scipio, who knew Rome to be poor, though victorious, and Carthage rich, though subdu'd, willing to relieve the necessities of the former, by the abundance of the latter, and perhaps, fearful that dispair might make them continue the War longer than his Consulship, and so his victories might prove but the foundation of anothers Glory; or else believing so prostrate an Enemy unworthy his [Page 199] Sword, or esteeming it more generous to be known a Conqueror by the confession, than the ruine of his Enemies, granted them Peace, but upon terms, as long as their submission, and permitted them to send unto the Roman Senate for their Ratification. In the mean time, Mago had rais'd so considerable an Army of Gauls, and Lygurians, that the Romans ap­prehended he would kindle as great a flame in Italy, as Scipio had in Affrick. They therefore sent against him Marcus Cornelius, the Pro-Consul, and Quintilius Vartus, one of their Pretors, with whom I associated my self. In short, Mago and the Roman Army, met in the Countrey of the Insub­tians, where was fought a Battel, of as much variety and resolution, as any since Rome or Carthage were founded: twice the Romans, and twice their Enemies were embracing Victory, but at length Quintilius, and I, having rally'd the reliques of our scatter'd Horse, and Mago of his, we resolute­ly advanc'd to determine this bloudy dispute; Hannibal's Brother, who suspected his Men needed some high encouragement, advanc'd about an hundred paces before them, and invited the Pro-Consul by a single Com­bat, to shew they were as prodigal of their own Bloud, as of their Sol­diers. He not being present, and the Pretor (perhaps) more concern'd in the publique Safety, than in his particular Honor, declining it, (with his permission) I gallop'd up to Mago, told him, the Pro-Consul was on an employment which render'd him uncapable of hearing, and consequent­ly answering his Challenge, and that therefore I was come (naming my self) to supply his place, that so generous an invitation might not fall to the ground. As soon as Mago heard the Name of Perolla, his Eyes were all inflam'd, and he was so transported with Passion, he had scarce the pa­tience to tell me, that had he known of my being in the Roman Army, he had addrest his words to me sooner than to the Pro-Consul, and that the time was now come, I must answer for Asdrubals bloud, or shed more of it: then not giving me the leasure of a reply, we began a Combat of so peculiar a quality, that it produc'd a resembling effect, for both Ar­mies were so concern'd in the dispute of their Combatants, that forgetting their own, as if it had been by mutual consent, they became spectators of their Fates, which they thought would be legible in that of their Cham­pions. But why do I so long protract my relation? let it suffice I tell you, that though Mago's Virtue relish'd of his Family, yet his success was Car­thaginian, for I having receiv'd a wound on my Bridle-hand, gave my Enemy so large an one in his Thigh, that he fell from his Horse, and had there lost his life, had not I thought it more handsome to give, than take it. At this Victory, the Romans gave so loud a shout, that most of the Gauls and Lygurians were hardly able to abide it, much less their victori­ous Arms; but the Battel had so long continu'd, that the approach of night hinder'd the Conquerors from making any considerable advantage by winning it, and the vanquish'd during the obscurity, made so long a march with their wounded General, that in two days after they came in­to Lyguria, where he receiv'd the sad Commands of Carthage, without delay to return thither, and rather employ his Bloud to preserve his own Countrey, than to Conquer his Enemies. This fatal Summons he obey'd in part, but his wound open'd so large a way for his Soul, that it flew out at that passage, as he was as far as Sardinia in his return. This loss, the Carthaginians resented at a higher rate, than that Battel which was the cause of it: To contract my discourse, I will pass over those Civilities, not only the Pro-Consul and the Pretor, but also the whole Roman Senate made me to let you know, that those low submissions Carthage had made [Page 200] Scipio (which indeed were too humble to be real) were only to protract the time, till those two famous Sons of Amilcar were come out of Italy for their deliverance; the fate of the youngest, and his Army, Sir, I have al­ready told you, that of Hannibal I am now going to relate, and it shall be in as little a Volume, as I can possibly contract so much Truth, and Busi­ness in. I will therefore in pursuance of this assurance, pass by all his acti­ons, since that famous Battel of Metaurus, and therein be no Enemy to his Glory, which would be more obscur'd by saying he did little, than that he did nothing, and come to his receiving from Carthage the Orders for his return; which though they were the same, had been sent his great Bro­ther, yet he did not consider them with so Philosophical a temper; for whereas Mago at their reception, obey'd them, with an absolute resignati­on; Hannibal by a thousand extravagancies exprest his rage, and discon­tent; but after his fury, gave him leave to speak, he cry'd out to his Offi­cers, yet at least this is plain dealing, and more handsome to let their Com­mands, than their not supplying my necessities recall me; besides, (he con­tinu'd) Rome nor Scipio cannot now glory, they have sent Hannibal out of Italy, no, 'tis Hanno and his Faction, who not able any other way to ef­fect the destruction of the Barcinians, act it by that of Carthage. But this great Captain, whose providence extended over all events, had in readi­ness a Fleet for so sad a Navigation, in which he embark'd his Army, but all such Italians as were not willing to follow his fortune, nor able to fly his Power and Fury, and had taken sanctuary in that sacred one of Iuno Lucinia, he forc'd from thence, and by putting them to several ignomini­ous deaths, did that for them, which they merited of their Countrey: Af­ter so bloudy a Sacrifice to the Manes of those friends he had left behind, he took Ship himself, more troubled at his abandoning Italy, than at the cause of it, cursing both the gods and his own stupidity, that after the Battel of Cannes, he had not led his Army all hot and bloudy to the Walls of Rome. But whilist he is at Sea, it will not be amiss to let you know, what is done on Land. The Carthaginian Ambassadors sent to Rome to ratify that Peace made with Scipio, appear'd so ignorant in what they were sent to conclude, and so uncertain in their desires, and answers, that the Senate easily disco­ver'd their hearts, and found what there presented to be their simpli­city, was their treachery: whereupon that great Assembly return'd them back to Scipio, by Lelius, who had been sent to Rome with Syphax. Lelius in a swift Gally, accompanied with his false Ambassadors, soon came to the Ro­man standing Camp, where he learnt that the Carthaginians having certain­ly heard of that great Army (following too the famous Name of Hannibal) which was coming out of Italy, asham'd of their tame submission, and that they had despair'd of their fate, whilst so fear'd a General was to dispute it, and coming powerfully to their deliverance, had not only broke the Trea­ty, but by Asdrubal their Admiral had taken 200 Ships sent from Sicily to re­lieve the Roman Camp, they being by extremity of weather, cast into the Bay of Carthage; and that Scipio having sent Ambassadors to complain of so barbarous a violation, contrary to the Laws of Nations, they had like to have been murther'd, declaring their Ambassy; but having strangely escap'd that misfortune, returning by Sea to the Consul, who then encamp'd not far from the River Bagradas, they were encounter'd by the same Asdrubal, who lay behind a Promontory to intercept them, which doubtless he had per­form'd, had not the Ambassadors in a swift Quinquereme-Gally, avoided his stemming, and run ashore to some Roman Companies, which were sent for their rescue, where though they sav'd themselves, yet they lost many of their [Page 201] attendants & followers, which A [...]rican proceeding had so incens'd the Con­sul, that he was gone to vindicate it with his Army, which now breath'd no­thing but blood and fury. Lelius, surpriz'd at this strange & true information, went to Scipio, who he found acting a Revenge proportionate to the great­ness of those Crimes that made it just: but the Carthaginian Ambassadors he left in the Roman Camp, which then was commanded by Bebius, one of those that had so narrowly scap'd in his late Embassy; and though by Le­lius he beg'd the Consul by the death of the Carthaginian Ambassadors, to let his Enemies know, and suffer for their fault; yet the generous Scipio commanded him not only to spare their Lives, but immediately to give them their liberty: For he esteem'd it a nobler way so to reprove their sin, than to imitate it. This great Conquest over himself, was but a Prophe­cy of that over his Enemies, which now was not far off; for their great Hannibal, about this time, landed at Leptis, an hundred miles from Carthage, which he did, to refresh his men after their Navigation, and to get some ad­ditional Forces, especially of Horse, in which he was most defective. Ty­cheus, and Mezetullus, two African Princes, brought him 3000, with which reinforcement, having received positive orders from Carthage, without pro­traction, to determine their destiny by Battel, he march'd directly to Za­ma, not far from the place where the Consul lay, from whence he sent out Spies, to discover the Romans countenance and strength; some of them being taken, were brought to Scipio, who, instead of crucitying them, (which was then the general practice) commanded an Officer to carry them about the Camp, and punctually to shew them whatever they desir'd: this done, he sent them back to their General, who admir'd at the bravery of his Enemy, and concluded his Army was deficient in nothing, since he was so ready to shew the posture it was in. Hannibal immediately after, (but I cannot tell from which of those two causes it proceeded) sent to desire a Parly with Scipio, who assur'd him shortly to satisfie his request. The next day after Massanissa (who upon that false Peace was sent into his own Kingdom) came to the Camp, at the Consuls reiterated requests, with 4000 Horse, and 6000 Foot, and the same day I arriv'd there, to satisfie my En­gagement and Revenge. Those additional Forces gave the Consul so great a certainty of Victory, that the next morning with all his Army he remo­ved to Nadagara, where mindful of his Engagement to Hannibal, he sent him word he was then ready to discharge it. The time and place was im­mediately appointed, and those two great Men went out of their Camps to meet one another, each of them with 1000 Horse for their Guard; and I being desirous to see my Rival, had the command of Scipio's. No sooner were they come to a convenient distance, then all the rest making a stand, the two Generals advanc'd, and for a while did nothing but view one ano­ther with mutual admiration, perhaps to find out where that virtue lay, which had render'd them so equally famous over all the world. At length, Hannibal saluting Scipio, first told him, It had been (generous Enemy) more advantageous both for Carthage and Rome, if they had confin'd their Ambitions within the shores of A [...]rick and Italy, since the Kingdoms of Spain and Sicily, about which our Fathers and we have so obstinately con­tended, are not a sufficient recompence for that blood and treasure they have exhausted; but though things past are irrevocable, yet they may in­struct us for the future, and induce us (by a serious reflection on those dangers we have expos'd our own Countries unto, to conquer others) to believe it necessary and just, rather with safety to possess our own, than run a hazard of that, for an uncertainty of more: To this temper, my experi­ence [Page 202] of the World, and of Fortune, has reduced me: But I apprehend thy youth and heat will decline these thoughts, till thou hast learn'd them in the same School; but, methinks, thou may'st, by my example, be infor­med of a truth, which if now unregarded, thou may ' [...]t learn at a more troublesom rate: For I am that Hannibal, which, after many bloody Bat­tels, brought my victorious Arms to the walls of Rome, and now behold here I come to offer Peace unto thee, that thou may'st not do the like to Carthage. Consider too the Fate of Marcus Atilius, who, for declining so advantageous an overture, received a ruine from the gods, which perhaps attends all those that delight in shedding humane blood: Canst thou be content Scipio that Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, and whatever other Islands lie between Africk and Italy, be eternally abandoned by the Carthaginians? 'Tis a glorious bargain for the Romans; and for our parts, our future quiet shall be our satisfaction; and the contentment which from thence we shall derive, will be an abundant obligation to tye us faith [...]ully to observe the Peace that gives it: But if thou esteemest all this too little, reflect (I be­seech thee) how great a hazard thou undergoest, for the obtaining of a little more than thou may'st enjoy without any. 'Tis now in thy power to make thy Fate, but if thou stayest till to morrow Night, the gods will make it for thee; let us therefore conclude on this universal blessing, and reproach me not the late treachery of some false-hearted Citizens of ours; it is Hannibal that now desires Peace, which he would never do, did he not find it expedient for his Countrey, and knowing it so, he will always maintain it, as he did the War he began, 'till the gods and Men did envy him. (To which Scipio reply'd) 'Twas not (generous Hannibal) the ambition of Rome which made them take up Arms, but the defence of the Memertines, and Saguntines, their Confederates; which action of theirs, the gods, by the issue of the War, have, and will declare was just: For the mutability of Fortune, I am not ignorant of it, the condition which thou once didst reduce Rome unto, and that which I have since Carthage, does sufficiently evince it, and therefore I would as willingly give Peace, as thou des [...]est it, if it were upon terms which might convince the world, 'tis the Roman magnanimity, and not the Roman fear, that grants it; but by what thou offerest, thou only givest what their Swords have given them already; and whereas I expected, that in recompence of thy Citizens per­fidiousness, thou wouldst enlarge the Articles of their late violated Peace, thou dost exceedingly contract them, and thereby wouldst have them gai­ners by their treachery. No, Hannibal, those that will have Rome their friend, must not do actions unworthy of that end; and if the Carthagini­ans break an Agreement, as soon as they see a probability of building their Fortune, by the ruine of their Faith, they do thereby instruct the Romans, to reduce them to a condition of not being able to violate a Peace before they grant them one. But (continued Scipio) all this I speak to Carthage, and not to Hannibal, to whose desires I will give, what I will deny my own judgment, and that is Peace, provided that my first Concessions be the Articles of it, and that an equal satisfaction be made for those injuries we have sustained by their Infidelity. I am not come ( Han­nibal reply'd) to cheapen a Peace, I come to offer what I esteem just; and as I have done it at first word, so I will not recede from my first overture; if thou esteemest it unreasonable, the god of Battels must be our Judge. 'Tis to him then ( Scipio briskly reply'd) I refer our difference, who, I believe, thou wilt find more untractable than I am; for he cannot be a god, if he favor an Army which comes more loaden with In [...]idelity than [Page 203] Arms; and from whom Victory will flie, lest she be thought as blind as For­tune. Then the Consul, laying by his serious looks, told the Carthaginian smiling, But if at my return to my Army, every one be as well satisfied with this conclusion, as a Gentleman that commands those Horse (pointing to his Guards) I shall find as general a joy at the assurance of a Battel, as at the possession of a Victory; and if every Soldier had his resolution and design, Hannibal would not avoid his particular Fate, whatever the Gods determined of the publick. Who is this, said the Carthaginian, that is so great an Enemy to Peace, and to Hannibal? 'Tis Perolla (said the Consul) Oh Gods (the A [...]rican reply'd) what strange accident makes him abandon his Izadora? But may I not (generous Scipio) by your favor, be satisfied from his own mouth? Yes (said the Consul) I will send him to you, but first I must exactan engagement from you, and then the like from him, that what­ever your discourses be, you shall pass no farther. I do ( Hannibal answer'd) faithfully promise it; for since I am certain in so short a time, to have so ma­ny thousand witnesses of my revenge, I would not confine the sight of it to so few. This confidence (said Scipio) I will leave Perolla to answer, who immediately shall meet you: then taking leave of Hannibal, he told him, Remember Carthage pulls down her own destiny, by decliming a Peace, which she implor'd with tears; and when I ask no other satisfaction for their treachery, but to restore what they took from us by it. Remember (said the Carthaginian) 'twas Citizens not Soldiers which beg'd made, and broke the Peace, and 'tis Hannibal you have now to deal with, who intend­ing to keep his bargain, will make it accordingly, and has offered you what before next Sun does set, you will repent you have declin'd. The Consul would not hear this reply, but came immediately where I waited for him, and there told me the publick transactions, and my Rivals desire, which he gave me leave to satisfie, but first engaged me to the same conditions Han­nibal had submitted unto; which having faithfully promis'd, I gallopt to the place where he attended me, and where truly I was receiv'd by that great man, with a civility and countenance which had nothing of an Enemy and Rival; I salu [...]ed him with an high respect, and with an humility proportio­nable to the difference of our qualities; but I could not suspend that just hatred I had contracted against his barbarous usage, to a perfection greater than that sin; which the seeing him so infinitely increast, that had I not re­member'd my engagement to Scipio, I had then either ended our differen­ces, or my life; but whil'st I was in those thoughts, they were interrupted, by Hannibals telling me, Is then ( Perolla) your Hate greater than your Love, that you abandon your Mistriss, to prosecute your Rival? Or has that high justice of Izadora's, which esteem'd Hannibal unworthy of her, taken up the same belief of you? Sir (I reply'd) that affection which I confess is an injustice for the fair Izadora to confer on any man, forces me to seek out the high in­terrupter of it, which yet is no argument that my desire of revenge is great­er than my flame; for the cause being alwayes more noble than the effect, my passion, which makes me endeavor to vindicate the object of it, cannot be esteem'd less great, than that which it forces me unto: neither could I by any one action render my self more unworthy the beatitude of Izadora's Love, than in not declining my joys, to revenge her wrongs; which to effect, I will fling my self into dangers, as high as those pleasures I have lately abandon [...]d. Ah young man (said Hannibal) thou art as little sensible of, as worthy thy felicity: Canst thou possess Izadora's Love, and think of any thing besides? Were I in thy blest condition, nor Revenge, Empire, or Glory, should one minute separate me from a felicity which I could not render my self more [Page 204] unworthy of, than by abandoning: nay, I would quarrel with any thought which should interpose, much more remove me from it: but since thou [...]ast left all to follow thy Revenge, if thou hast the courage to act it, to morrow I'll present thee the occasion. Oh Gods! I cry'd out, if I have the courage to act it? Alas! he that did not want it to vindicate an injur'd Empire, will not certainly, when 'tis to right a perfection as far above an Empire, as she is any thing else that's mortal. Yes, Hannibal, thou shalt find, a heart that's fill'd with so divine an image, cannot be capable of so low a sin as Fear; but on the contrary, 'twill inspire me with resolution enough to seek thee out, even in the center of thy Troops. I will (said Hannibal) spare thee that pains, thou shalt find me at the head of them, where I will more handsom­ly punish those miseries thy better stars have cast upon me, and by thy death, before 200000 witnesses, evince, thou hadst more Fortune than Merit in thy Love; and by destroying the object of Izadora's flame, punish her in­gratitude to mine. Do but (I reply'd) assault my life in so generous a way, I will excuse thy attempt upon it by Oristes, and never implore a greater certainty for the punishment of thy Crimes, than to have thee de­fend them with thy Sword. The apprehension I had (continu'd Perolla) that my passion might transport me beyond my promise, made me (after having again summon'd Hannibal of his engagement) gallop away to the Consul, who I found (by an excess of civility) was become the Captain of my Guards, as I had been of his; he made me too, that generous Compli­ment: and after I had by an humility resembling the cause of it, exprest my gratitude, I inform'd him (as we were returning to the Camp) what had past betwixt my Rival and me, whilst he was doing so great an injury to his quality. As soon as we were come within sight of it, Massanissa, Lelius, and all the most considerable Officers, came to meet Scipio, who told them with a look which relisht of Victory, that the Carthaginians would force the Romans to become their Lords; and by denying them a part of their Empire, give them a title to the whole, which the next Sun should absolute­ly decide. The Numidian King, and all the rest, were exceedingly satisfi'd with this News; for they were confident, their Swords would give them more, than the Carthaginians. The day therefore no sooner appear'd, than the large Plains of Nadagara were cover'd with Soldiers, from which place the ensuing Battel took its name, though many (but ignorantly) term'd it that of Zama; and though I had the honour to have been in most of the signal actions of my time, yet there were none of them to beequal'd with this, whether you reflect upon the Generals, the Armies, or the dispute, which in effect was to decide the quarrel betwixt Rome and Carthage. Scipio divi­ded his Horse in two wings, the right Massanissa had with his Numidians, under whom I elected to serve, because their manner of Fight gave me a greater probability of meeting with Hannibal, though the Consul offer'd me the command of the flying Regiment, which consisted of 1000 Roman and Sicilian Gentlemen; the left Lelius commanded, which was composed of the Italian Cavalry: The first Maniples were the Hastati, the next the Principes, the third the Triarii, who were mutually seconds to each other, and only in this the Consul differ'd from the usual Roman Discipline; for he plac'd not the Maniples of his Principes, opposite to the Intervals be­twixt the Hastati, that so (as was usual) they might fall back between the Principes, but plac'd them directly one behind the other, as it were in File, which was of singular advantage; for those Elephants that charged the Romans, finding a free passage through the Intervals, never broke upon the Soldiers, which it seem'd was rather their constraint, than their choice. The [Page 205] Consul having thus drawn up his Army, made them this short Speech: If Glory, Revenge, and the Empire of the world, are capable (generous Companions) to bring any accession to your Valors, in this Battel, as in their centre they all meet, you safeties too are included in it, for in this barbarous Climate you have no retreat; so that were there any Cowards amongst you, they must find their security in their hands, not in their feet: For my own particular, I bless the Gods that have made it my Fate, to be after this day uncapable of misery, for Death or Victory equally secures me from it; and this Battel ended, you may quietly possess the fruits of it, since if your Swords conquer this Nation, your Fame will all the others. Remem­ber your Enemies last action in Italy, was the violating of Sanctuaries, and their first in Africk was the violating of Peace: so that their Crimes weigh down their Arms; and by destroying them, you sacrifice as well to the Gods, as to your Revenge. Let us then begin the Charge, and let it be vigorous enough, to make them acknowledge, that their sin was not capa­ble of transcending their punishment; that by flying from that Peace which we granted them, they have as much injur'd their interest, as their honesty; and force the Survivors to shed as many tears for having declin'd honesty; and force the Survivors to shed as many tears for having declin'd our mercy, as they did to obtain it. Hannibal too was not unimploy'd, for he knew this day was to perfect, or ruine his glory. His Elephants (which were above Fourscore) he plac'd in the Front of his Battalions, behind these was his Vanguard (all Mercenaries) and compos'd of Lygurians, Gaules, Baleares and Moors, his Battel then follow'd, consisting of Cartha­ginians, and other Africans, more concern'd in the quarrel, but not so va­liant maintainers of it. To these were added 4000 Macedonians, under the command of Sopater their Captain, lately sent him by Philip, King of that Warlike people. More than a Furlong behind these last Divisions, came his Rearguard, consisting of those brave Soldiers which had serv'd him in his Italian Wars, in whose virtue only he was confident of victory. His right wing of Horse (all Carthaginians) was led by Mircall, and Bar­mocall (for the generous Maharball was dead.) Two famous Captains, Tycheus and Mezetullus, commanded the left, which was formed of Numi­dians. Hannibal having thus order'd the Fate of Carthage, endeavour'd by few, but powerful words, to elevate and increase his Soldiers courages; to the Mercenaries he promis'd rewards, as great as the quarrel that Battel was to decide. To the Carthaginians, perpetual slavery and chains, if by death or victory, they did not avoid those misfortunes. But to his old Army, he put them in mind of all that Glory they had won, when their Courages effected greater wonders, than would be necessary that day: 'Tis not (he continu'd) your General alone that now incites your Valors, 'tis Carthage, liberty, glory, your wives, children, and friends, that speak by my mouth; they will think you valu'd Italy above all these, if you had courage to con­quer that, and want it to preserve them: no, generous Companions, shew the Senate, by the defeat of these Romans, what you had done to all the rest, had your Supplies been equal to your Merit; and convince them by so noble an Argument, of your virtue, and of their neglect of it. Then turning towards our Army, he told them, Observe whether these numbers equal those at Cannes, Trebia, Tecinum, or Thracimene; alas! these are so far from opposing you, that their ruine will hardly bring any accession to your Glories. Remember this Scipio's Father was the first Captain we beat in Europe, let his Son be the first we beat in Africk, make your Successes run in a blood, his Soldiers will contribute to this design; for they are the [Page 206] Sons of those Cowards you have so often vanquisht, that you have entail'd fear upon their Posterity.

No sooner had Hannibal done speaking, then he commanded his Numi­dian Horse to begin the Battel, whereunto they were invited by a Thou­sand Trumpets, Clairons, and other Warlike Musick: The Elephants too were commanded to Charge the Romans, but those irrational Creatures seem'd to reprove the Carthaginians with their violation of Faith; for the greatest part of them turn'd head, and extremely disorder'd their own left wing; Massanissa so well improv'd so unexpected an advantage, that he perfected what they had but begun. The rest of the Elephants (which were faithful to their own side) made a horrid execution on the Roman Velites, whom they Chased through the Intervals of the Maniples; yet did the Battalions no prejudice, by that excellent prevention of the Consuls, which I formerly mention'd: but divers of those moving Castles being at length much wounded, turn'd head, and ran furiously upon their own right wing, and thereby gave Lelius the same advantage which they had presented Massanissa, and which he as well improv'd as the Numidian King. In the mean time the Battalions of Foot of either Army advanc'd, with a slow and confident march, till they came within shot, but then giving a shout which made the Neighbouring hills to tremble, they ran against each other with a fury worthy their dispute; at first, the barbarous strength of the Mercenaries prevail'd over the Roman virtue, but at length the Roman discipline, and resolution, wrought its accustomed effect; for the Principes by sustaining the Hastati, reliev'd their fear, and disorder; but as soon as the Mercenaries retreated, the new-rais'd Africans had not the courage to second them, which the other sattributing as much to their treachery, as fear, began to flie; but not being able to run away but through the Inter­vals of the A [...]ricans, those either to punish, or hinder their Cowardize, would not permit them that way of safety. On the other side, the Gaules, and Lygurians, by not being seconded, and by then being oppos'd, thought themselves betray'd; and esteeming it a more pleasing Revenge to destroy their false Friends, than their valiant Enemies, made use of those Arms a­gainst the Carthaginians, which they had taken up for them; which disor­der the Romans soon ended, by involving both Parties almost in a general ruine. I have (said Perolla) the more insisted on this part of the Bat­tel, to vindicate the justice of the Gods: for these Forces were those only which had broke their Faith, and Peace; and they only were those against whom Fortune so visibly fought, that the Romans were convinc'd Victory was on their side, because Justice was; and indeed they acted their success with so much ease, that it appear'd the work of the gods, and not of men. But all this while Hannibal with his Italian Army stood firm, and charged his Pikes and Launces against those Cowards which sought their safety in their feet, so that they were necessitated to seek their deliverance in that, by which they had thitherto found it. Scipio perceiving those gallant Troops, with as little fear in their looks, as hearts, Hannibal too at the head of them, and the ground over which he was to march, slippery with blood, and in­cumber'd with dead carcasses, was in a great apprehension, whether march­ing such an obstructed way, his Battalions might not be disorder'd before he came, where he was confident they would most stand in need of their discipline and virtue; but after a short debate with himself, (for he was blest with an excellent presence of mind) not to lose the victorious heat his Soldiers were in, he commanded the Hastati to wade slowly through [Page 207] that Sea of blood, and (as I may say) as soon as they were Landed, to draw up all in Front, and if Hannibal offer'd to assault them before the Principes, and the Triarii were come up, immediately to retreat into that purple flood they had made, where the Carthaginians might share the in­conveniences of the ground, and where the dead Africans would assume the quarrel of the gods, and hinder the living. But these directions, though they abundantly manifested the Consuls Soldiery, yet there was no use of them; for Hannibal either disdaining all advantages from those dead, that when living had afforded him none, the better to set off the vir­tue of his old Army, or the distance being too great to advance and charge the Hastati, before their companions came, made that great man decline it, and so Scipio had time to draw his Principes and Triarii on the right and left Flank of his Hastati; which was no sooner effected, than he immedi­ately advanc'd to charge an Army, who never saw any defeats but those they had given the Romans, and where he was so entertain'd, that it made the precedent fight against the Mercenaries, and Africans, appear not wor­thy that name; for the Romans, encouraged with their numbers and suc­cess, and their Enemies inflam'd with the loss of their companions, the ha­zard of their Empire, and perhaps with the glory of having the general safety left to their Swords, so mutually fill'd all places with blood and hor­ror, that I may truly say, the World was well disputed, and Victory was so equally and generously courted, that she knew not which side to elect; whereby you may in some sort conjecture, what hazard the Roman Empire was reduc'd unto, by the too violent pursuit of Massanissa and Lelius, which I may truly say, I first discover'd, and first made them sensible of; for whilst we were following those whose low resistance made them unworthy our Arms, we abandon'd those, whose resolutions merited our assistance, and whose condition needed it. Massanissa and Lelius were so far from con­demning my confidence, that they acknowledg'd their fault, and after the Battel, confest unto the Consul, that he deriv'd his relief from my care, (this I tell you, not to acquaint you with my virtue, but to shew you how secure they were in their own.) I will omit (generous Spartacus) in­forming you, how that day I kill'd two A [...]rican Captains, that naming them­selves Hannibal, by deluding me into a false Revenge, deluded themselves into a real death.

It is time to return to Scipio, who, perhaps, we have too long abandon'd in our Story, as well as in the Battel; that great man, at our arrival with all our Horse, was upon the point of losing a Victory, by our having pro­secuted one too far. To be brief, our return was most happy, and in a needful time; for the Carthaginian had so well continu'd his practice, that he had left Forces enough to prosecute his dawning success, and drew a considerable Body (as well for their number, as virtue) to oppose Mas­sanissa and Lelius; and that which made this little Army the more formi­dable, was, that Hannibal himself lead them: the gallantry of the charge was proportionate to the Soldiers and Generals, and we were no sooner mingled, then I sought him amongst the press, who had promis'd to be found at the head of his Troops; but I was soon reliev'd from that em­ployment, by a voice which I heard often repeat my name, I ran with ex­cessive joy to the place where I was call'd, in hope that it might be Hanni­bal; I soon found 'twas no third counterfeit, as well by that majestick grace he had under his arms, as by the fury of his blows, which I imagined could not be inspir'd but from Revenge and Jealousie.

[Page 208]Our Javelins working no effect (mine glancing upon his shield, flew between his right Arm and his Body, and his past hissing by my ears) we soon made use of our Swords, and were so equally animated, that our rage for awhile hinder'd the actings of it; but not to hold you long in a Com­bat which did not last so, after we had almost cut in pieces those Armors, whose goodness we mutually curst, and that we had by light wounds drawn of each others blood, Hannibal who apprehended, that by playing too much the part of a Soldier, he should as much neglect that of the General, determin'd by a powerful reverse to end both the dispute, and his life, that was the cause of it; but what he design'd for that effect, might have had a contrary one, for the blow was so vigorous, that by chance lighting upon a piece of my Helmet, it broke the Sword that struck it, and left nothing in Hannibal's hand but the Hilt: Though a piece of the Sword gave me a deep wound in my left shoulder, yet I no sooner saw my Enemy [...] than my Anger was so too; but the object of it perceiving his misfortune, was so far from being terrified with it, that observing I declin'd prosecu­ting my advantage, he told me, Why dost thou not ( Perolla) embrace an opportunity which Fortune has offer'd thee, since thou canst never expect an advantage over me, but on such a score? Those words mov'd me a lit­tle, but not so much as his condition; so that laying aside Izadora's wrongs, my Countries, and my own, I reply'd, 'Tis not ( Hannibal) from Fortune, but from Justice, that I will derive my Revenge; for since I undertake to vindicate an injur'd Innocency, I must make use of no wayes, but those as virtuous as the Subject of my quarrel: Thy attempt on my life by Oristes, when I could make no resistance, I condemned and therefore will not pra­ctice a resembling Crime; since to imitate so low a sin, were rather to au­thorize, than punish it: Go then, and at our next meeting get a better Cause, as well as Sword; for if the first be the same, the latter will be the like. H [...]nnibal made me some Reply, which by the tone I imagin'd was very civil, but I gallopt away from him, ending those words, (lest he might conjecture I obliged him, to make him my Friend, and lest some Ro­mans might have made a more fatal use of my advantage) and joined my self with Massanissa, who had perform'd miracles that day, which (in a word) concluded with an entire defeat of the Carthaginians, 22000 being left dead upon the place, and almost half as many Prisoners taken. Scipio in the midst of his Troops, (upon Lelius and the Numidian Kings infor­mation) came and embrac'd me with transports which were too great ei­ther to be related, or believed, and then ask'd me, whether I had met with my own and our Empires greatest Enemy? I told him I had, and exchan­ged some blows with him, but that we were soon separated. This I ac­knowledged, but durst not acquaint him with the en [...]e truth, lest he might have esteemed that an offence to Rome, which I was certain was not one to Gallantry; and on the other side, Hannibal, either not to own his mis­fortune, or out of an apprehension, that the discovering of his safety, might endanger him that gave it, ever kept it private, which was the cause that so great a truth was not a publick one. In this great Battel of Nadagara, or (as some called it) of Zama, was determined the fate of Carthage, though Hannibal avoided that dayes ruine, having performed all the vir­tues of a General and Soldier; and where to speak the truth, 'twas (as he said) more the gods, than the Romans, that won it, for his two wings of Horse were routed by his own Elephants; and had he been blest with their return, as Scipio was with Massanissa and Lelius's, he had probably prosecuted that advantage over the Consul, which their arrival forc'd from [Page 209] him; Many who knew his temper, admir'd, and ask'd him, why he out-liv'd that loss? to which he reply'd, That the Romans might not too-much glory in it, for to destroy Carthage and Hannibal in one day, would have made them proud with more justice, than they could be condemn'd for being so; that to deprive his Countrey of himself, was to doe more against them than Scipio had, who might lay too hea­vy a Peace upon Carthage, if they had lost Hannibal and their Army; that it would have made his Countreys condition appear more despe­rate than it was, if he had lost the courage of not seeing it, and that perhaps, the pride of Carthage might be her ruine, in not making a Peace, when the gods had abandon'd her, which he knew she would embrace, when Hannibal himself advis'd her to it. These reasons were as true as lo [...]ty, and to evince they were not excuses but realities, he went to Cart [...]age with a celerity that manifested his concernment, which place he had not seen from his Childhood, and where he was receiv'd ac­cording to his Virtue, not Success. There he besought them to leave off their Tryumphs, since the gods had left off giving them the occasions; and that immediately they would conclude a Peace with Scipio, and so preserve something by a capitulation, lest they lost all by declining one. A Senator call'd Gesco, who thought it a manifestation of Courage indeed, to shew some, in a season when Hannibal had lost it, began to incite the Senate to a new War, by the example of Rome, who had lost her Empire, had she lost her resolution, and that they wanted only a Roman success, by wanting a Roman Magnanimity. But Han­nibal inrag'd to hear those discourse of War, who were as ignorant of, as unfit for so dangerous a profession; and were only like Trumpet­ers, that set Men by the Ears by their breath, but never fight them­selves, arose from his Seat, and pull'd down Gesco out of his; which the Senate resenting, Hannibal (as the fair Izadora has told you) so excel­lently excus'd himself by his zeal for his Countreys safety, and so Pathe­tically declaim'd upon the making of a Peace, that he obtain'd an ex­cuse for the former, and invited them to embrace the latter; This was the cause that the Consul sailing towards Carthage, was met by a Gally loaden with Carthaginian Ambassadors, who bearing up with the Ad­miral, and using the gesture of Suppliants, were commanded to wait for an answer at Tunis, where the Consul arriv'd (after having brav'd the proudest City of the world with his Fleet) and where he was ad­vertis'd that Vermina, the Son of Syphax was advancing towards Car­thage, with a good body of Horse, either to bring the fate of that City to a new Tryal, and Field, or protract her ruine, by flinging himself within her Walls. This Allarm the Consul receiv'd as the means of an infallible accession to his Glory; and because he had employ'd Lelius to Rome, with the news of his Victory, and that Massanissa in the gaining of it, had receiv'd some wounds, which might have render'd his march against Vermina, more dangerous than the Combate, Scipio sent for me, and though I believe he elected me, because of those two great Mens being uncapable of then acting; yet with a flattering Complement he assur'd me, his choice was the effect of his judgement, and not his ne­cessity, that he commanded me to go against this Numidian Prince, who by his largest intelligence, was not above 8000; that he had select­ed me 4000 choice Horse for this Expedition, suplying the defects of their numbers, by the Gallantry which compos'd them, and that he gave me so few, that my courage might be the more conspicuous. I will not [Page 210] tell you in what words I cloath'd my Gratitude, I rather was covetous to express it by my actions, which the sooner to perform, I went to the Ren­dezvous, where I found my little Army ready to march: I would not loose that good disposition they were in, but having assur'd them, I was as con­scious of the Consuls injustice in putting me at their head, as any of them could be, and that I knew them so perfectly, that I would make less scru­ple to Serve under, than Command over them: I immediately sent out my Forlorn-Hope, which had not march'd Ten miles, e're they return'd me word, that they had discover'd the Enemy, which could not be less than 15000 Horse. I told the Messenger, that sure they had seen with multiply­ing Eyes, but yet the greater the number was, the greater the Glory, and then desir'd my Body to continue their march a Foot-pace, and with twenty Horse I gallop'd to the place where my Adverti­zers were, where again they confirm'd their first intelligence, but Vermina had so cover'd his Army, that I could not possibly satisfy my curi­osity, by my Eyes, without beating in a Body of 500 Numidians, which I elected with my 250, and perform'd. The fruits of that little success, was the discovery of our Enemies Army, which I found, was rather contract­ed, than multiplied by my first Intelligences, this had startl'd me, but that I perceiv'd in my little Troop, an augmentation of Courage, by that of Dan­ger, and in them I found the pattern of the residue, to whom I retreated all the way in view of the Enemy, that prest us in all things well, but in success. By that time we came in sight of our Body, the Sun was sett, and Vermina perceiving so many Horse, took them for the Van of the Consuls Army, (that too, which fortify'd his belief, was, his own strength, and Scipio's care of Intelligence:) in this faith he makes a stand, and judging of the Cause of it, I resolv'd, whilst he was in so terrifying a belief to improve it to the best advantage, in order to which I sent a Soldier of mine, (as if he had fled from me) to let Vermina know, that Hannibal was defeated, and shut up within the Walls of Carthage, and that all the Roman Army was ready to make him a companion of his Fortune, as well as of his Cause; this advertisement was given just as I fell on, which was an hour before day, for I would not give it him sooner, lest he might have retir'd, and had the benefit of the whole night to favour his retreat; I sent also advertisement to Scipio, of what I had discover'd, and that he might think 'twas my Duty, and not my Fear produc'd it, before I had any return or additio­nal Forces, I began the Battel. The obscurity, the news of Hannibal's de­feat, and the belief, that we were all the victorious Roman Army, excel­lently contributed to our advantage, though the Numidians so resolutely disputed the difference, that above 14300 found their Graves, where they thought to have found their success, but Vermina himself was none of that number; my loss was about 900, and I receiv'd a slight hurt in the self same place that Hannibals Sword had made one, which was in effect, but opening a little wider, that which was not yet well clos'd up, and consolidated. But the Allarm of the Numidian strength no sooner came to the Consul (who was then visiting Massanissa) than that valiant Prince, who merited a King­dom from Rome, though he had had no Title to one, caus'd himself to be led to his Horse, and though Scipio earnestly disswaded him from so dangerous a Gallantry, yet with all the rest of the Roman Cavalry, and some Foot, he ad­vanc'd to my assistance. I know not whether their appearance was any advan­tage to my little Army, (for they came in sight assoon as we could see) but I am sure their actions were not, for they saw us Conquerors asson as they perceiv'd us: and their generous Commander, to give those entirely the [Page 211] glory that had won it, would not so much as permit his Soldiers to follow the Execution, or to share in that spoil, which had been purchas'd at the expence of our Bloud. Indeed the Pillage was great, and their civility too which had got it, for they brought me a proportion, that might have as much satisfy'd my avarice, as the cause of their being so liberal, did my honor; and though I accepted their Present, it was only to deny them no­thing, for immediately I had it all divided amongst those Soldiers, whose wounds disenabled them to seize upon what they had purchas'd by them; This just distribution wrought so powerfully on all the rest, that they thought I had only perform'd that action, to shew them what they had omitted, and in that belief, they made amongst themselves new Collecti­ons, of as great a value as the former, which they begg'd me passionately to accept, for (as they alledg'd) 'twas unjust I should devest my self of what was my due, to repair their fault; This Gallantry from common Men was extraordinary, and if I have insisted so long upon't, 'twas to ac­quaint you with theirs, not my own. To conclude this business, I declin'd the repetition of their Civility, and though it were in terms, as obliging as I was capable of, yet I found to have left them rich, was to have in­jur'd them. Massanissa, after we had ended the Execution, came to em­brace me, and to be civil, he was so unjust as to protest, that though Rome had made him a King, and Scipio gave him the Crown, yet 'twas I (by Vermina's defeat) that had given him the Kingdom. I did not answer this Complement, lest he might believe I was so vain as to think I had a Ti­tle to it. I cannot tell you (generous Spartacus,) all the Tryumphs an [...] Joys at the Armies return, since alas, I was torn from them by a storm, greater than the reception the Consul prepar'd for us; for as I was with­in two miles of the Roman Camp, a Stranger (having drawn me aside as I was riding with the Numidian King) told me, if I were at leasure to hear him, he had something of high concernment for me from Izadora, who had expresly sent him. That fair Name surpriz'd me, and made me use the Ambassador from such a perfection, with Civilities, that manifested the re­spect I paid her: after a thousand embraces I told him, Yes my dear Friend if you come from the fair Izadora, I am not only at leasure to hear you, but to desert all the Glory of the Earth for that of obeying her Com­mands. You will (said the Messenger) somewhat confounded with those Civilities, at the head of the Army) receive them in this Paper, which I took with a transcendent greediness and devotion, and having open'd it, found it contain'd these words:

No no (I cry'd out) fair Izadora (having twice read this Letter) I will lose no time, but go and relieve you from your Fathers Tyranny, or by my death, remove the cause of it; then turning to the Messenger, I [Page 112] told him, come (my Friend) I am ready to obey you, and Izadora's Commands, and the gods knowing the justice of my obedience, will doubtless contribute to so necessary a duty. Sir (he reply'd) methink, as yet they do not favour your desires, for they have ty'd you to cele­brate a Tryumph, and confin'd you to Affrick, by an opposite wind. Alas (said I, interrupting him) how ill thou understandest me, to be­lieve that Triumphs or the Empire of the World, can one minute suspend my serving the fair Izadora: Nor those, nor the Winds shall stop me a mo­ment; I'll force the Sea to be my Friend or Ruine, by perishing, in attempt­ing of my Duty. Let us go then; (reply'd Izadora's Servant) That Gally which transported me, is now at Tunis, and expects but our return; she has a gallant Ginge, and nothing but a storm great enough to swallow us, shall hinder our arrival in Italy. Thou rejoycest me (I reply'd) for the best fortune next to our intended Harbor, is a wrack: go then and pre­pare all things, that we may set to Sea within this hour, for before that time be expir'd, I'll be aboard. The faithful Messenger without reply, gal­lop'd away, and in an instant, in a cloud of Dust we lost sight of him. But my Passion for her that merited a higher, was so great, that till the fair Izadora's Servant was gone, I took no notice that Massanissa and all the Army had made a stand, whilst I was receiving so fatal an intelligence; to repair their rudeness (which nothing could excuse but the cause of it) I rid up to the Numidian King, besought him, and who had known the ef­fects of Love, from the fair Sophonisba's Eyes, to pardon those which pro­ceeded from a resembling perfection. That generous Prince, at the name of Sophonisba look'd pale, and sigh'd, and then told me, he was sadly skil­ful enough in the operation of Beauty, not only to excuse what it pro­duc'd, but was bound by his knowledge of those effects, to offer all his assistance to them; and therefore he begg'd me to make use of five excellent Gallies of his, which lay ready behind the Promontory of Carthage, well mann'd, both for the Oar and the Sword; that if Blacius continu'd his Ty­ranny, I might have wherewithal to disingage Izadora from it, and that I should find a plentiful Sanctuary in his Kingdom, which was at my de­votion, by my having reduc'd it to his. This transcendent Civility I de­clin'd, with all the submission I was capable of, and assur'd him, that it was by more humble Arms than those he had so generously offer'd me, that I would vanquish Izadora's Father; but since by what he had mention'd, he gave me the confidence to implore something of him, I would make use of those humble Prayers, to beseech him to Apologize for me to the Con­sul, for my i [...]stant departure, since an hours delay might be the Eternal ruine of a Virtue, greater than ever yet had shin'd on earth; that my crime was the more extenuated by my resigning those Forces he trusted me with, to the great Massanissa's care, and after they had obey'd his Commands. That virtuous Prince undertook what I implor'd, and bid me not doubt but Scipio would listen to all excuses of Love from him, but to those which concern'd himself: he spoke these last words in high disorders, which the Consuls sad Commands concerning the fair Sophonisba had created. From Massanissa I went to make my excuse to those Troops I had commanded, who exprest as much sadness for the cause of my departure, as for my aban­doning them. Some of them were so gallant, as to offer me their Swords and Lives, (which they might dispose of, being all Voluntiers.) I would not make use of so obliging a proffer, but having declin'd it upon the same score I had Massanissa's, I immediately took leave, and only follow'd by Strato, I soon lost sight of the Army, and recover'd Tunis, where I found my Gally [Page 113] had weigh'd Anchor, and stay'd upon her Oars for my arrival. As soon as I came aboard, I animated the Slaves by Gifts, and Promises of exces­sive rewards, and in the joy of those hopes, they chearfully began the voyage; but we had not crost half the Sea, which separates Carthage from Naples, when a [...]urious Northern wind began to whistle so hollow, and so loud, that though it rais'd a storm of it self, yet we knew it was but the fore-runner of a greater, which soon follow'd, with such extremity, that the Mariners, and Slaves, were as much troubled as the Sea, and as deaf to all my Prayers, of continuing their Navigation, as the Wind. But at length, finding the Pilot had put the Gally before the Wind, and was steering for Tunis, I ran to him, and presenting my Sword to his Breast, I vow'd by many horrid Oaths, that if he did not change his Course, whatever become of the Gally, he should immediately receive his Fate. That which too increast the horror, was an Ecclipse of the Moon, which those Superstitious ignorant Souls, attributed to a divine forewarning of their wrack, and not to a natural Cause; but I had (whilst study was my employment) so great propensity to Astronomy, and made some such progress in it, that I knew perfectly the cause and duration of Eclipses, and having by a former calculation found out how long this would continue, what with my threatenings, what with my engagements to them, that if the Moon did not recover her former Luster (which I said she had only lost, in horror, and detestation of their fear) within three hours, I would be content to return with them: I made the trembling Pilot tack about, and the gods of the Wind, and Sea, with the Queen of Love, who sprung from that Element, so favour'd my resolution (which had for end, the relieving of a Beauty as fair as she, and which presented her more votaries than all the residue of her Sex) that after the Moon within the time li­mited, had assum'd her former light, by a friendly South Wind, we safe­ly arriv'd in two days at Naples; where leaving Izadora's Servant, next night I came Post to this City, but in disguise, lest the rumour of my arri­val might prejudice the intention of it. Immediatly after I lighted, I went towards Blacius's House, to learn by what intelligence I could get, how to form my resolutions; and though there was no light in the streets, but what the Lamps of the Shops and Windows did afford, yet as I was passing by that House Pacuvi [...]s us'd to dwell in; I heard a Gentleman that stood at the door, tell his Companion, either I am infinitely mista­ken, or that is Perolla which is going by; t'other being of his opinion, they immediately follow'd, and overtook me, and so confidently call'd me by my name, that I could not well deny it; neither indeed would I at any time have deny'd it to them for they were two of those intimate Friends, which had helpt me to force Hannibal's Prisons, when Blacius was in them. I was as much astonisht at the weakness of my disguise, as to find my friends without any, in a place where Blacius commanded, but they silenc'd that wonder by a greater; their assurance that my Father was too in Salapia; That the Senate, (after Hannibals abandoning Italy) had sent him a Par­don for his Estate and Life, and were so generous, as to attribute that fa­vour to those services (they said) his Son had done their Empire: That the Garison of Salapia was disbanded, and things were in the same posture they had been in, before the Carthaginian crost the Alps. All this I heard with astonishment, but being uncapable of any concern, but my greatest, I conjur'd my Friends to preserve me unknown, to provide me a pri­vate Lodging in one of their Houses, and to permit me awhile to prose­cute an intended design. All this (but the last) they promis'd, and seem­ing [Page 214] to know the scope of that, they begg'd me passionately to be sharers (and serve me) in it: this I as passionately declin'd, and having taken a hasty leave of them, I went alone directly to Blaciu's House, which find­ing open, (guided by my Ear) I came into a large room, almost fill'd with company, that then were Dancing a Ball, and where the croud of Lookers on was so thick, that for a good while I could not come to see those particulars that compos'd it; but as soon as I did, the first object I saw, was Izadora, drest in all the shinings of a Bride, and with a Face as full of content, as 'twas of Charms. Judge (Sir) continu'd Perolla, speak­ing to my Prince) what a perplexity this sight did cast me into, but after the first disorders of it was lessen'd, imagining what I knew to be a reality, was an illusion, I enquir'd of a Gentleman that stood by me, what was the occasion of so celebrated a meeting: He (without considering any thing but my Cloaths) answer'd me briskly; of what Countrey art thou Friend, that art ignorant of it? I told him I was one that dwelt not far off, and that passing along the Street, having heard excellent Musick, I had per­mitted my Ear to guide me, and was come to hear it, but finding some things that pleas'd my Eyes as well, I was desirous to satisfy them too, and by his favour to learn their Names that did it. Since thou art a Stranger indeed (he reply'd) I will, to the best of my knowledge, inform thy cu­riosity, assoon as thou acquaintest me with it. I would then (said I) be­seech you to tell me, who that Gentleman is which goes so richly drest, and that becomes his Cloaths so well? 'Tis (he reply'd) Flaminius, who is this night to possess that Beauty (pointing at Izadora) which cannot be greater than his merit. Oh gods (said Perolla, interupting himself) you only know my disorders at so fatal an intelligence, but lest the Gentleman should, the better to conceal them, I begg'd him to let me know that Beau­ties Name? 'Tis Izadora (he reply'd) I have heard (said I) that Izadora, (if this be the same) was so engag'd to Pacuvius's Son, both by Inclination and Services, that he only should have married her. 'Twas, the Gentleman answer'd, generally believ'd so, and I am sure her Father has been suffi­ciently oblig'd to him, to make the gift of his Daughter the evincement of his Gratitude; but either her Inconstancy, or Blacius's hatred, is the cause of these Nuptials, though for my part, I attribute them to the form­er, for methinks her Face is too full of joy, to believe her Heart is possest with a contrary passion; yet believe me, Friend (he continu'd) this Marri­age will end in Tears, for I know Perolla's courage too well, to be igno­rant of what his resentments will be in such an affront, and therefore I could gladly wish the gallant Flaminius had plac'd his Passion on an ob­ject, as fit for that honour in all things, as this is in Beauty. I could not hear these sad words, without some sighs stealing from my Breast, which he that caus'd them, observing, ask'd me the occasion. I told him coldly, 'twas to find that the god's bestow'd the blessing of Beauty, without that of Constancy, which was in effect to lay snares for Mens destruction; but to take him off from considering me, and to learn whether there were any suspitions, or belief of my being in Salapia, I besought him to tell me where Parolla was, for I could not but think it strange, if her were a Man of Courage, that he did not employ his, to vindicate such a wrong Alas (he reply'd) the poor Gentleman I believe, is so happy, as to be ignorant of his misfortune: He is now in A [...]frick, where he has obtain'd within these few days, a great Victory against Vermina (the Son of Syphax) who it seems, is successor to his Fathers misfortunes, and consequently not to his Kingdom: this I was even now told by a Gentleman that came from the [Page 215] Roman Camp before Perolla was return'd unto it, who I believe when he hears Izadora's Inconstancy, will curse his Fate, that he did not find his Death, where he found his Victory; but I am still of opinion, that he which takes Perolla's Mirtles, whilst he is gathering Laurel, will shortly find them turn'd to Cyprus, unless the forsaken Lover will esteem Flaminius possessing a Woman of as much Inconstancy, as Beauty, a sufficient pu­nishment: I cannot tell you the disorders I was in at these strange discour­ses, but I can perfectly tell you, that had not he which made them, been more intent in considering the company, than to whom they were ad­drest, he had certainly discover'd me; but as I was about to retire to form my resolutions, (which I could not do whilst I saw Izadora, and Flami­nius,) I heard a fresh Consort of Musick, which presently usher'd in a Youth in a Saffron Coat, a Crown of Roses on his Head, and an unlight­ed Torch of Pine in his Hand. This I knew was a representation of Hy­men, who is the Deity of our Italian Nuptials, and his appearing made me soon learn, that the intended Marriage was suddainly to be consum­mated. I withdrew my self in the horror of such a sight, and having ob­serv'd, Callione (Izadora's Confident) was not amongst the other Ladies, being perfectly knowing in the passages of Blacius House, I stole up to her Chamber, to be inform'd of my destiny; for though I saw her fair Mistriss (as it were) in my Rivals Arms and Embraces, yet I attributed my mise­ry to all Causes, rather than to her Infidelity; which if by a miracle I should learn from Callione, she was capable of, I was determin'd to change the Marriage into a Funeral, by killing the Bridegroom first, and then his Murtherer at Izadora's feet. But Madam (continu'd Perolla, with an hum­ble gesture, and accent) though I have as often begg'd and obtain'd your pardon for this Crime, as I have mention'd it, yet I must still continue that practice; for to think 'twas in the power of a miracle for you to be one, in any thing but Perfection, is a sin greater than all things, but the Mercy which has forgiven it: In confidence that you have so again, which I implore with an humility as transcendent as my offence, I will prosecute my Relation, which was so necessarily interrupted at my going to Calli­one's Chamber, where finding the Door shut, but not lock'd, I gently open'd it, and looking in, perceiv'd there was no Light in the Chamber, but that there was some in a Closset contiguous to it; thither I softly went and looking through a Crevice of the Door, I saw Callione leaning upon the Table, with a Bole befor▪ her, over which she wept Tears enough to have fill'd it: so high a melancholly in a House where nothing (any where else) was visible but joy, extreamly surpriz'd me; but I was much more when I heard her say to her self; What Callione, canst thou then be faith­ful to Izadora, when thy Fidelity is a Crime? and when she makes use of thy affection for so fatal an end, as to become her Murtherer? No, no, Perolla doubtless will be more satisfied to find her in the Arms of Flammi­nius, than in those of Death; especially since her being the former, was her misfortune, not her design: He will too console himself in the knowledge of my Treachery, and pardon it, since 'twas to preserve, what his delay only ruin'd: but (alas, she continu'd, after a small silence) thou speak'st Callione, as if hind'ring her Fate in this Nuptial Bole, would hinder it till the hand of Age impos'd it: No, she that has resolution enough to receive Poison into her Breast, will not want it to plant a Ponyard there, when the first has fail'd: What wilt thou do then, unfortunate Callione? to obey thy Mistriss is to become her Executioner, and not to do it, is to make her become her own, after the gods too (by a Holy tye) has left [Page 216] her no disposal of her self, and thereby must act her murther, by almost as high a Sin; she must dye too, Flamminius's and not Perolla's, and must detest thee as much as she will Life. Oh gods ( Callione continu'd) you that have brought me into this Labyrinth, lead me out of it, and do not destroy a perfection, which suppresses Atheism, for nothing can create, but must be more perfect than what it creates, and to be more perfect than Iza­dora, is to be without doubt a Deity. The fair Calliones's Tears for a while, interrupted her words, but the confu [...]ion they wrought in me (I attest, the same gods she invok'd) was so great, that I was in hope, what betwixt that and grief, I should never more have been capable of any: but those that form our Destinies, made not mine so favourable, for they render'd my Heart stronger than my Misery, and by that time they had perfectly restor'd me my Senses, I heard Callione thus assume her discourse. Yes fair Izadora, I will obey your Commands, the Nuptial Cup shall be poison'd, but you shall not take it, for I will go and acquaint Blacius with your re­solves, who shall hinder them in such way, that you will attribute his care, rather to his doubts, than knowledge; perhaps your despair may more work on him, than your Tears have done, and when he finds you elect Death before Flamminius, he may let Perolla supply his place. No Calli­one (I reply'd, knocking at the door) Perolla knows the gods, and Izadora too well, to believe the former have ordain'd me the latter; if I am come, 'tis to contribute to, not interrupt the Marriage. Yes, yes, I am resolv'd to give Izadora up all her vows, they have been too much her torment, for me to continue their possession; but if she be too generous to receive them by a resignation, I will present them to her by my death. Callione hearing my voice, (after a little trembling,) open'd the Door, and her Eyes had no sooner confirm'd the Intelligence of her Ears, than she cry'd out; Is it you indeed Perolla, alas, what Tears has your absence cost us? you can­not guess them, but by the joy of your return, which revives my hopes, for the gods are not so cruel to send you to be a spectator, but a reliever of our Miseries. Thereupon, after some other discourses of this quality, to satisfy my intreaties, she told me; That Flamminius, a Roman Gentleman, who had no fault, but too transcendent a Passion for Izadora, had seen her one day in the Temple, where from adoring an invisible Deity, he ador'd a mortal of as much perfection; and being as great in the Riches of Fortune, as of Nature, had by some Senators (expresly come from Rome) pro­pounded his alliance to Blacius, who meeting in him all things worthy it, and your absence contributing a favourable opportunity, greedily em­brac'd the motion, and Flamminius began his addresses, with so charming a Grace, and Humility, that nothing transcended both, but Izadora's Constancy, which is not to be extinguish'd, but with her Life. I cannot tell you how diligent she was to discover an imperfection in her Servant, that might have render'd her declining him, an action of as much rea­son to her Father, as it was to her: 'tis too much you know, that though she had you for her pattern, I tell you, said Perolla, her flattering expres­sion, yet she could find no fault in him, but that in which he resembl'd you most; I mean the greatness, and unmoveableness of his Love; in this misfortune, to declare the good opinion she had of his Virtue, and to be convinc'd of the reality of it by an experiment, one day she freely acquain­ted him with all your Loves, and how fully he might be satisfi'd of the fixt­ness of her Passion, since he could not remove it; that therefore she im­plor'd him to render that an effect of his Generosity, which else would be one of her Constancy; and that he would turn his Love into Friendship, [Page 217] since she was as ambitious of that, as uncapable of the other. These words so mov'd the generous Flamminius, that his Bloud ran all to preserve the seat of Life, his Eyes were fix'd in his Head, his Tongue was moveless, and suddainly he fell so at Izador's feet, who in a fright, ran out, and call'd me in to her assistance; both ours prov'd so powerful, that after a quar­ter of an hour, Flamminius came to himself, and having immediately begg'd Izadora's Pardon for the incivility of his indisposition, he only told her; That either He or Death would obey her Commands; and then retir'd to his Lodging, where, what reasons he rais'd against his Passion, I am ignorant of, though not of the strange effects they produc'd, for two or three days after, he came to visit Izadora, where he was hardly known, and where constantly afterwards, if she were alone, he never mention'd any thing of his Passion, but would only look fix'dly upon her, fold his Arms, and groan, and say he was not yet Conqueror. But if Blacius were there, he would court Izadora with a countenance as full of joy, as his heart was empty of it, and if he admir'd at Flamminius pining away, he protested 'twas an inward disease, but not one of the mind, nor of Izado­ra's neglect. This was his practice for twenty days, the Night of the last, he came again to visit Izadora, and in Sighs, and some Tears, implor'd his Pardon for his Passion, Importunities, and so long disobedience; and protested that he would shortly so vindicate her, on himself, that she should acknowledge her Interests, and satisfaction, were much dearer to him, than his own. Flamminius after those assurances without any more words, immediately withdrew himself, and the next intelligence we had of him, was, that he kept his Bed, of a disease, whose nature the Physitians were as ignorant of, as of the cure; and that though Blacius, by many reitera­ted, and passionate conjurations, begg'd again to know, whether Izadora's coldness were not the efficient cause of his sickness, yet he could never receive any other answer, but that she was not, at least if the gods impos'd not that affliction on him, for so aspiring a Passion. Six days Flamminius Feaver was so violent, that he despair'd not the Seventh (which in that disease was the first critical day) but to be able to obey Izadora. There­fore calling to him a Page of his, who was his Confident, he commanded him to bring him some Paper, on which, (though with much difficulty) he writes these few lines;

THis Letter being seal'd, he commanded the faithful Youth, by all the strictest tyes he could invent, to deliver it with his own hands, and without any witness, to her to whom it was addrest; For if Blacius, or any other, discover'd what it contain'd, he should spend those few hours he had to live, inso much despair, and horror, that those torments would almost equal Izadora's hate. Judge ( Perolla) if ever Gallantry was rais'd to a greater height, than to have so particular a care for the preservation of one's own destruction, and whether you have not cause to glory in posses­ing a Beauty, which could produce such rare effects, and in a Constancy that was not mov'd with them; at least, no further than Pity could extend. I an­swer'd [Page 218] (continu'd Perolla) Callione's words only with a deep sigh, that the reflection of having been cursed with one Rival, too full of Power, and another too full of Virtue, drew from me, which made her thus continue. But though the circumspection of the Master, and the Servant was great yet it was fruitless, for having deliver'd Izadora the Letter, as privately as he was directed, Blacius, who always suspected Flamminius denials, pro­ceeded rather from his goodness, than his Truth, and who observ'd an admirable vigilancy over Izadoras actions, was no sooner advertis'd of the Pages coming to his House, than he stole to his Daughters Chamber, who had scarcely read her Lovers fatal generosity, but she fell a deplo­ring it with Tears, and in so great disorders, that in the heighth of them, Blacius surpriz'd her with the cause in her hands, which he violently snatcht from hers, and having perus'd it, contracted so transcendent a rage for her to whom it was sent, that his Ponyard was twice out to have quench'd it in her Bloud; but perhaps, believing to kill her, would be rather an ob­ligation, than a revenge, he resolv'd as the most sensible one he could invent, to carry her to Flamminius, and force her to give him some such pregnant evincements of her conversion, that he should not doubt it; and which, if afterwards she broke, might render her as unworthy his Affections, as Resentments. Blacius being thus fixt, commanded a Charriot to be made ready, in which he took Izadora with him to Flamminius's, to whom he commanded her to be askind, as she had been cruel, or as he merited; which if she declin d, he protested by Oaths (that to be repeat­ed would give one horror, much more to have broken them) that if he could hire no murtherers to destroy you, he would do it with his own hand, and that then he would force her to marry Flamminius, or Diana's Nun­nery. The fear (as she vow'd to me) she had for you, the pitty of Flam­minius sufferings, and virtue, and the duty to a Father, made her more in­cline to obedience than her own safety, which the gods by the condition they had reduc'd her to, had render'd the least of her cares. As soon as they were come into Flamminius's Chamber, the poor Gentleman seeing Bla­cius with Izadora, began to exclaim against the Fates cruelty, and not hers, that had given him no obstacle but want of health, to enjoy a Felicity as transcendent as her Beauty, This discourse the generous Lover held, for he was ignorant that Blacius knew the cause of his danger, his Page not daring to acquaint him with it, lest what was his misfortune, might have been esteem'd his fault; but he was soon put out of that Faith by Blacius, shewing him his own Letter. Oh gods! who can tell you those sad words Flamminius utter'd at that discovery (they were such, that I as much ad­mir'd, as commended Izadoras Constancy not to have been shaken by them. But her Father who had solemnly sworn, that nothing but Flamminius's re­covery, should convince him of his Daughters change, withdrew himself to a window, lest the dying Lover might attribute Izadora's kindness, to his presence, and not her conversion. Flamminius perceiving 'twas with design, instead of employing so kind an opportunity, to implore his Mer­cy, in receiving, and cherishing so pure, and bright a flame, made use of it only to invoke her pardon, that the assurance he had sent of his obe­dience, had prov'd so unfortunate a Duty, and then protested (with Eyes and Hands, elevated to Heaven) that if her justice would not in­vite her to believe, he intended not to make use of Blacius authority, her reason should be convinc'd of it, by the demonstration of his death; and lest that might be consider'd as her act, he would by a Letter, and before witnesses, seal with his last breath, 'twas not her disdain that pro­duc'd [Page 219] so sad an effect, but the joy of her alteration, meeting with a Bo­dy too much weakn'd, to receive so transcendent a blessing. This new, and perhaps unexpected Gallantry, more troubl'd Izadora, than had he made use of that power, Blacius was so willing to furnish him with; for she found it far more difficult to oppose Virtue, than persecution; and indeed her perplexity was such, that for a while she answer'd him in no­thing but weepings; which the generous Flamminius observing, and perhaps fancying the cause of her disorders, begg'd her to believe he was more sensible at her Tears, than she could be for their subject; that all he said, or hoped for, was but to obtain a pardon for what his Passion, and Misfortune had cast upon her; that she would not so much contri­bute to his Torment, as to manifest she was sensible of it; nor to his Re­covery, as shewing him a Beauty, which was capable of greater miracles. This discourse confounded Izadora, on the one side to destroy so perfect a Virtue, and on the other, to preserve so dangerous a Ryval for Perolla, was a strange perplexity: besides, to give him hopes, was to cast herself into as great a danger as she exempted him from; and to make him de­spair, was, (by Blacius's vows) against your Life) to involve you in a re­sembling misfortune; but at length, considering that he had virtue enough, to give her a confidence that by it, he might in time suppress his Passion; or if that which was so strong in all other occasions, should prove so weak in this, that yet her, and your condition would be but as desperate, as without that Essay, she resolv'd to save a life, that the gods (but by Iza­dora) had not the power to preserve. In this relation she told Flamminius (blushing, and trembling) I will pardon you all things, so to dye, be not one of them. O Madam (hereply'd) are my Crimes so great, that you deny me too that way of avoiding farther punishments? No (said Izadora) your Virtues are so, that I can better suffer your passion, than your ruine. I could not but sigh at those words (said Perolla) but Callione did not, or would not hear me. Ah Madam (she continu'd, Flamminius reply'd) do not you think me past recovery, and in that faith, do like Physitians to Patients, which are so, permit them any thing? or may not I fear I owe this preservation to your duty, not your mercy? But I carry my fears too far, and make them perhaps as injurious, as my hopes, which have no greater ambition, than to have the Divine Izadora for the object of their adoration, and that she will promise me, in the same moment she forbids me that felicity, I may (as by her Commands) end my life with what gives the relish to it? This (said Izadora, hastily, and in disorder) I promise you. And this promise (said Flamminius, kissing her hand) I do more joyfully receive, than that health and life it will restore me to, Izadora gave Flamminius that engagement, because it was nothing conclusive to your prejudice, and because Blacius (who was impatient to learn the event of their discourse) was coming towards them, who might have forc'd his fair Daughter to a more binding one, or to as great a danger by her declining it. To shorten my relation, Blacius, though he had many protestations from Flamminius, that his Truth, and not his complyance, publish'd that Izadora (as far above his hopes, as merit) had made him happy, and that his health should be suddainly a visible effect, and evince­ment of what he profest; yet upon his return, he confin'd Izadora to her Chamber, till by Flamminius recovery, he was convinc'd of his Daughters obedience, which yet he durst not manifest to be his intention before Flam­minius, who he knew would revenge any Tyranny upon himself, that was impos'd on his Mistriss, But upon his first visit, which was not long after (so [Page 220] powerful a charm were Izadora's words) she was restor'd to that freedom, her Servant never knew she had lost; but it was upon condition, that she should receive Flamminius addresses, and the same minute she manifested any aversion for them, to be one of the vestal Nuns of Diana, which you know is a society, that admits of no return to the world, to any that are once ingag'd in it. If it had not been for Perolla, this threatening had lost that quality, and the pennance had invited her to the Sin: but she knew to be in the World, and not his, was as inconsistent with her inclination, as Vows; and that the way was easier for him to follow her to Elizium, than to the Nunnery; but yet the hope she had in his Fortune, and Cou­rage, made her look, as at a distance, though as at a certainty upon the latter, and dispatch an express to acquaint him with her resolution, if his arrival prevented it not. But whether Blacius has heard of this messenger, or whether his apprehension, that your now accession of Glory, (which came to his knowledge last night by a Spye he kept about you) would make the Senate consider your particular, as a publick Concernment, ac­celerated the Nuptials, I cannot tell; but this I can, that there was no in­tentions of them so suddenly, and that Flamminius had never the confi­dence to ask Izadora's consent, but contents himself with not learning her aversion for them, and in observing in her countenance, a joy, which has not only deluded him, but all those that have consider'd it; but alas, it was but the better to palliate her fatal resolution; which is in the Nuptial Bole that is offer'd to Venus, to drown her life; or else, perhaps she does not counterfeit: but her exterior satisfaction proceeds from an eternal one, that she dyes a Martyr for Perolla, and for Constancy, which I hope his ar­rival will prevent, and convert our fears into nobler passions. For my part, I shall not tell you, either the Office Izadora impos'd on me, or the resolution I form'd on it; since I am confident you have heard both. Yes (said I) fair Callione) I have, and you must practice neither; I will act a part, that will exempt you from acting any. Then lifting up my Eyes and Hands, I thank' the gods for having communicated so much Divinity to a Creature, and implor'd them to direct my actions, for her satisfaction, though to my own ruine. This short ejaculation finish'd, I begg'd Callione, that I might have the felicity to see (and talk one minute with) Izadora, which she promis'd, and was no further on her way towards the satisfying her engagement, than her Closet door, but Izadora came into the Cham­ber, waited on by Flamminius, Great gods! what tremblings did that sight cast me into, which I saw through the crevice of the door? I was once going to have made him no more my Rival, or to have been his no longer; but the presence of Izadora (and Flamminius virtue) ty'd up my Arm; neither though my reason had not supprest my disorders, had I enjoy'd the opportunity of acting my despair: for the cause of it, imme­diately withdrew himself, with so much Grace and Humility, that I ex­claim'd against Fate, which had render'd my being his Friend and Izadora's Servant inconsistent. Flamminius was no sooner gone, than she having shut the Chamber door, told her Confident; Now Callione, I perceive the gods are determin'd to furnish me by Perolla's absence with what shall evince, that my passion for him, is as perfect, as unfortunate; I must dye ( Callione) and (beseech the gods to make me as unfortunate in the other World, as I have been in this, if I resent any trouble for my Death, but what I ap­prehend it may create in him; and that by this one argument of my Flame, I am render'd for ever uncapable of giving him any other; but it may be the cause of my death, may extinguish, or lessen the effects of it. On [Page 221] the contrary, Madam ( Callione reply'd) 'twill augment them, not only by the loss of the highest perfection that ever was, but by his knowledge that that loss was his, and for him. Let us speak no more of it (said Iza­dora) my resolution is too just, and too setl'd, to be remov'd; for, either 'twill make him love my memory, or follow me; and in this one perform­ance, I satisfy my Duty, and my Love: the first being cancell'd by the hand of death, the last by going to a place where the object of mine may be assured to find and possess me; and I have stoln this minute to let him know so much under my hand. For thy particular ( Callione) the trust I have impos'd on thee, is of a quality which manifests the greatness of it, and this is all I have to enjoyn thee, that thou wilt deliver my last desires to Perolla's hands, and that thou wilt, with as much resolution, see me take the Poison, as I will drink it. Come Madam (said Callione) I can­not believe Miracles are ceas'd, since I see your constancy: retire yourself into this Closet, where you may deliver me your Commands, with more secrecy, which I beseech you to believe I shall faithfully obey, though I would not any of them with so much passion, as that of pledging you. Alas Callione (said Izadora) thou hast no griefs, which death alone can ease. I shall have (Madam (she reply'd) when yours are cur'd by that reme­dy. At the end of these words, the fair Izadora open'd the Closet Door, and perceiving a Man there, for my disguise hinder'd her from knowing me) she cryed out, oh Callione, thou hast betray'd, thou hast betray'd me, but death hath more doors than one, and I will try them all, but I will find a passage. No Madam (said Callione, perceiving her error) your suspitions wrong me more, than you believe my treachery does you: 'Tis Perolla you see, and unless my presenting him unto you be a treachery, I am guilty of none. Izadora at that assurance, consider'd me more atten­tively, and then continu'd; oh gods, 'tis not Perolla, but his Ghost which comes to invite me to a place, where Merit and Love have no Enemies, and where a virtuous and a happy Flame are the same thing. No, fair Izadora (I reply'd, prostrating my self at her Feet, (for till then my di­stempers were too violent to let me speak) I am Perolla, not his Ghost, and am come to implore your continuance in this life, not to invite you to another; the gods will not so much tempt us to doubt their provi­dence, as to decline rewarding your Virtue, on the same Theatre, where it has so conspicuously shined: for that were to make Sin Reason Callione (Madam) has told me such a story of Flamminius, that you must be the unjustest Woman in the World, if you make me not the miserablest Man: and that hatred of your Fathers, which I thought was the gods cruelty; I now find was their care, since it has reserv'd you to a blessing, which no­thing can transcend, but my misfortune which builds it. I had conti­nu'd this discourse, had not Izadora interrupted it first, by going two steps back, and then by saying; This is sure Perolla's Ghost, not he: for nothing but a Spirit, divested of Flesh, could entertain so high a Philoso­phy; but can you esteem Flamminius Virtues great, that never but ha­zarded his life to please his Mistriss, when at the same instant you make yours your misery, to reward your Rival? his performance carried its ease with it, but Perolla's it's torment; had I been curst with any doubts of your transcending him; this action had clear'd them, and what you in­tend for the disclosing of his Virtues, do but the better manifest your own: neither can you think, but that his embracing your Offer, will render him unworthy of it; for the receiving a resign'd up Mistriss, is like losing a life for a Friend, where that act which makes the obligation, imposes an impos­sibility [Page 222] of gratitude. Ah Madam (said I, interrupting her) he that could dye to please Izadora, merits to live for her. Observe (she reply'd) the ju­stice of the Gods, which furnishes me with Arguments out of your own Mouth; for you will acknowledge, to live in Torment is a greater un­happiness, than death, and since you assure me by becoming Flamminius's, I must make the first of those your Fate, must not a higher Martyrdom, have a proportionate reward? will you make Izadora unfortunate, because the gods have made Flamminius generous? and will you give away what you have given yourself to? have you not rewarded a gallant intention, by a gallanter? and have you nothing to pay Izadora's debts with, but Izadora herself? Alas Madam (I reply'd) they are my debts, as well as yours, and I beseech you, judge of the value I place upon those that ob­l [...]ge you, when I submit to such a payment. Great gods! (said Izadora, [...]fting up her hands) what have I committed, that Perolla against Reason, against my Tears, and against my Prayers, will part with me? cruel Pe­rolla (she continu'd) fixing her Eyes upon me, after a short silence and weeping, you shall but extend your power over your self; you can but deny Izadora to be yours, and recall those vows you have made her: you cannot make her cancel hers, which were to be yours or Deaths; the first you willingly exempt her from, and the last she therefore as willingly e­lects. When she had done speaking, she came again to the place where I kneeled, and after having wet my Face with her Tears, she dry'd her Eyes, and with a look as cold, as temperate, and as far above misfortune, as she was unworthy any, she told me: farewell Perolla, farewell for ever, but before I execute what your cruelty, and my religion renders necessary, I will satisfy you, and Flamminius by my Nuptials; and after in that Bole, (pointing to the poison) or in as certain a remedy, if that be deny'd me, I will satisfy my duty to the gods. At the finishing of these words she left me, as if Life had done so, but observing her Fatal resolution, and that to be just to my Rival, was to be unjust and cruel to Izadora, before she was gone out of the Chamber, I cry'd out to her, Stay, Stay, (fair Izadora) your Life is dearer unto me than Justice, Gratitude, or all other conside­rations; and upon better thoughts, I have plac'd too high a value upon Flamminius's performances, that could think they merited Izadora for their reward, who can find none worthy of her, but he that she raises to that height, by her esteeming him so; and since she has created Perolla to, not found him in that blest condition, let her impose what Commands she will on the work of her creation, he will either act them, or not survive his im­potency, and disobedience. All that I have (said Izadora returning) to en­joyn you, is, that you leave no means un-essay'd (I will not so much wrong you, as to limit them no further than honor shall direct) to free me from Flamminius, and if those fail, to give me leave to do it. Farewell Perolla, though I dare embrace death, yet I dare not stay to see the event of your designes. Izadora was no sooner gone, than I begg'd Callione to let me know, whether there were a private room, in which I might by her favour enter­tain Flamminius without witnesses, whose virtue she had given me so large a Carracter of, that I despair'd not to perswade him to abandon a blessing, he could not purchase, but by as great a Tyranny. I believe (said Callione) I might bring him into the lower Hall, which is kept empty for the cele­brating the Nuptials; but allow I did, and that his Flame prove greater than his Virtue? Ah Callione (I reply'd) do not do the latter so much wrong, nor me, as to ask what my resentments will be, at so high an inju­stice. I will not (said Callione) do my innocence so much, for if I know [Page 223] your intentions, perhaps I might not contribute towards them, but being ignorant what they are, I may serve you without a Sin: Go then Perolla into the great room, pav'd with Marble, whereas certainly I will send him, as that my Prayers shall attend you. Her going away immediately, left me no time to answer, and that little I had left, was too precious to be mis­imployed: I therefore stole down to the place I was assign'd, where I had not long continu'd, but Flamminius came alone unto me; I besought him first to permit me to lock the doo [...], for my intelligence was to be without witnesses, or interruption. This he consented to, and this being perform'd I took off my disguise, and told him; The gods shall bear me witness, ge­nerous Flamminius, that I almost esteem my not unfruitful Passion to Izadora a misfortune, since I fear it may deny me a friendship, which is a blessing next to hers I should be most ambitious of, and most cherish; For you have been my Rival in so handsom a way, that I must acknowledge her declining, the giving you yet a more advantageous Name, is as great a demonstration of her partiality, as of my happiness; I have too, been so bold, as to tell her this truth in your behalf, and some things more as hard to be credited, as perhaps they were to be spoken. Yes Flamminius, I have been your Advocate against my selfe, and have passionately pleaded your Cause, with hope of success, though I know I could not obtain it, but by my eternal ruine; neither should I now have alter'd that practice, were not Izadora's Life the cause of it, who more constant to her Vows than her Felicity, prefers Perolla, or Death before Flamminius; so that the lat­ter cannot attempt to be her Husband, but he will necessitate her to be her own Executioner, and by so fatal a perseverance, not only extinguish the fairest light that ever shin'd, but make your self so guilty to your self, that should Izadora want friends to revenge your cruelty, your Conscience would assume that part, and act it with as much certainty, as horror. There is glory Flamminius as well as Reason in declining one Blessing, for a great­er, and of two evils you choose the least, when you elect your own ruine, before Izadora's; neither should I ever have had the confidence to beg this of you, had I not begg'd more for you, and were I only to receive the fruit of your Virtue, I would never have implor'd it: For Blacius being as constant in his Hate, as I am in my Love, I shall remove no obstacle by re­moving my Rival; but remain at as great a distance from my happiness, though you decline possessing it, as I shall be if you act the contrary. I will not tell you (Sir) what were Flamminius astonishments, both at learning who I was, and my requests; for they were indeed of a quality fitter to be imagin'd than related: but his answer (after a little silence) was this. Though I only know Perolla by report, yet I believe him such as he is de­scrib'd, but had I been as ignorant of his actions, as his Person, I must have concluded them both excellent (I tell you said Perolla) true, though not the truth) since they had charms sufficient to captivate Izadora, who ha­ving her own perfections to try others by, evinces his to be great, since they were esteem'd so by her. This faith (when I first saw Izadora) made me esteem my engaging my self in her service, and becoming your Rival, an action of as little justice, as hope: but that Beauty which is the cause of my Flame, must be the Apology of it, which would need none to any but Perolla; and lest he might believe the distance betwixt him and Bla­cius, did create my expectations of a nearness betwixt his admirable Daugh­ter, and me, I declin'd all Arms to conquer her with, but those you made use of, and would be oblig'd to Blacius for nothing, but his wishes, and the opportunity of making my addresses. What their successes have [Page 224] been by the mercy of her to whom they were paid, is visible in this nights preparations, and in Izadora: neither by her commands, nor by her looks opposing them. So that though I should credit Perolla in all things as an Oracle, yet I must look upon what he now alledges, as pro­ceeding sooner from his Despair, than Truth, and believe since art in Love, is rather a Virtue, than a Crime, that he considering of it in that quality, does make use of it to destroy what Izadora's Mercy and Duty, have elected to conferr on Flamminius, to the prejudice (perhaps) of her in­clination, and of her Reason. If (I reply'd) I am troubl'd at your not be­lieving me, it is only by knowing what prejudice it may involve Izadora in; to whom you have hitherto been so civil, that I am upon that score uncapable of resenting any thing from you, as an injury to me, which does not absolutely prove one to her, and if there be any Art in speaking Truth, what I have alledg'd, is abundantly replenish'd with it, for by Iza­dora (an oath I hold in too much veneration to violate) what I have told you is a real truth, and, is only in design, to preserve you from a sin, the very thought whereof doth make me tremble. You must pardon me Pe­rolla (said Flamminius, interrupting me) if I cannot raise my Faith so far above my reason. Alas (I reply'd) I must of necessity be oblig'd only to your Faith, for your doubts are of so sad a nature, that if reason and de­monstration only must remove them, the very performance which does it, will render you uncapable of making any advantage by their suppression, and the knowledge of your mistake. No Perolla (said Flamminius) I have not been so rude an admirer of Izadora, as not before now to have con­vinc'd her, that I prefer my obedience before my death, and when to ma­nifest that reality, I had almost made use of a demonstration, I would not again return to life, (left her enjoyning me, it might have proceeded from her Duty, or her present pity) till she had faithfully engag'd her self, to permit my death, when she would no longer my Passion; so that having given her the power, when she has the will to be free from my Flame, I cannot consider you now, but as your own, and not Izador's Agent. Alas Flamminius (I answer'd) that which you build upon the Cause of your Confidence, will be of our Misery, and her ruine; for the engagement Izadora gave you, the invitation to which was your virtue, with the condition you were in, when she gave it you, and her fear of what you may do, by what you have done, makes her elect her own Death, ra­ther than avoid it by yours; so that what you chose to evince your respect by, turns to a Tyranny; but let her generosity instruct yours, and remem­ber it can be but virtuous to imitate Izadora. You make me (said Flammi­nius) happy whether I do, or do not credit you: for if the latter by my choice, there is nothing since I spoke with you that troubles me, and con-sequently I am in joyes of hopes, till those of fruition converts them into greater: and if the former, I must be convinc'd that Izadora loves Flamminius better than her self; but yet (he continu'd) were I assur'd so fatal a proof, must certify that Truth, I should be less unfor­tunate in her hate, than her esteem; besides (he continu'd preparing himself to leave me) Izadora knowing her death, will be so far from preventing, that it will but accellerate mine. I must again ( Perolla) beg your pardon, for not crediting your vows, which you may grant with the less reluctancy, since my unbelief is with reason and against my self. Then (I reply'd) staying him, and drawing my Ponyard, which was all the Arms I had then about me, you must either oblige me so much, as not to let me live to see you restor'd [Page 225] to a better opinion of me by so black an Experiment, or you must not live to be Izadora's death; which, were I not certain your intended Nuptials would prove, I had rather make use of my hand against my self, than Flam­minius. Since (said he, unsheathing his Ponyard, which was a Weapon all Gentlemen constantly wore in those times) you will force me to dis­pute Izadora by my Arms, as well as by my Services, I make no question but to prove as successful in the first, as I have been in the last. We had no more words after those, but ran furiously at each other; my thrust was more fortunate than Flamminius's, for though his entered my right side, yet meeting with a Rib, and glauncing on it, it gave me but a large flesh wound, whereas mine past through and through his body, a little above his heart; and our Weapons being not long, we were constrain'd to close, in which I had the fortune to fling him down, and disarm him; but percei­ving by the great Spring of blood which issu'd from his wound, that I had at least for awhile hinder'd his Marriage, presenting him his Ponyard, I implor'd his forgiveness for what I had done, beg'd him to be satisfi'd by my being able to have success against him, that I had the better cause; and besought him not to implore that life I gave him, and Izadora had preser­ved, for his ruine, and for mine: since he would hereafter know how near she was to sacrifice her own for his, and that I would ever be of a resemb­ling resolution. Flamminius made me some answer which I could not hear, for having effected my design, (though in the most unfortunate way) I thought it high time to retire, lest a longer continuance in so dangerous a place, might rob me of the fruits of my Victory. I was but newly gone out of the Room, when (occasion'd by the curiosity of some that had listen'd at the door whil'st we were fighting) I heard all the house in an alarm, and was scarce half way out of it, but that I found my self in a narrow Entry assaulted by four with Swords, who cry'd out, Kill, Kill, the Murtherer of Flamminius; one of those was so hot in his fury, that run­ning at me, he stumbled, and fell at my feet, and by his fall choaking up the passage, I had time to take away his Sword, with which for awhile I re­treated safe against the rest; but as soon as I was come into a more spacious place, not only the other three came all upon me, but most of that crowd which were invited to this Marriage, and Blacius at the head of them: so that I had certainly there receiv'd my Fate, had not those two Friends I formerly specified, with Strato, relieved me; who suspecting my design, had continu'd about the house ready to answer all alarms; and this they did so vigorously, that having worsted some that oppos'd their entrance, they join'd me in my greatest danger, and crying out, Courage Perolla, by their voyces, and their performances, had restor'd me mine, though I had lost it. The name of Perolla, made Blacius discover what my disguise had conceal'd; and the affront, but more the Actor of it, so transported him, that striking at me with all his force, and I defending his blow with my Ponyard, his Sword fell out of his hand, which snatching up, I presented it him by the hilt, and beg'd him not to employ his Arms against a life, that I was perpetually ready to sacrifice for his service. Blacius was so extreme­ly surpriz'd at the loss of his Sword, and at the manner of his recovering it, that I had time to leave him in his astonishment: But I ow'd it to the Valor of the Gentleman with whom I had that discourse at my first coming into the Room where the Ball was dancing, who learning by the publick noise that I was Perolla, and pardoning my attempt on Flamminius, as to my resentments, did preserve my life, by cutting off another Gentlemans hand that was coming behind me to have taken it away, whil'st I was restoring [Page 226] Blacius his Arms. With this generous additional assistance, I recover'd the Street-gate, where I found by the care of my two Friends so powerful a recruit, that had my revenge been my design, I might as easily have acted, as desir'd it; and indeed I found a greater difficulty to suppress the fury of those Swords which were drawn in my quarrel, than I believe I should, to have been victorious by them. To be brief, I retired to a private and se­cure Sanctuary, though most of us received so many wounds, that their be­ing not dangerous, made us acknowledge a high Providence.

Whil'st we were thus disputing our difference, Izadora, though she were but a hearer of it, was (as she has assured me) in far greater fears, than any that were Actors in it; but being told that Flamminius was killed, she ran with Callione where he lay, and where she wept so many tears, that he almost mistook her Pity, for her Love; but Blacius being (after our re­treat) come thither also, caused Flamminius to be carried into the next Chamber, and as soon as the Chyrurgions had searcht, and bound up his wound, the impatient Father asked him, Whether his Daughter had any share in this Tragedy? Ah Sir (said Flamminius) be not so cruel to truth and to me, as to suspect her guilty of such a Crime; for had she intentions of that nature, she needed not employ any to kill me, since she knows, she has not only the power to act it herself, but by the honour of dying by her commands, she has wherewithall abundantly to recompence my death. No Sir, he that has reduced me to this condition, is some Stranger, and Friend to Perolla, who believing him too much injured by the loss of Izadora, has so civilly endeavor'd to revenge his absent Friend, that I can no more com­plain of his resentments, than I should at the loss of so much blood, had it been in Izadora's service; for after he had by courage (and not surprize) disarmed me, and that I had given him no slight hurt, when the latter pro­vok'd him to revenge, and the former gave him power to execute it, he restored me my Poniard, and for that gift, only besought me to excuse those resentments his Friends interest had created, and so left me. Take heed Flamminius (said Blacius) lest you make me question what you said of Izadora's innocency, by seeming to be ignorant of Perolla's guilt, when that he wounded you, is so known a truth, that there are as many Witnes­ses of it, as People in this house.

It may be (said Flamminius) that it was Perolla, but you cannot there­fore conclude that I must know 'twas he; for if it were, his disguise might have deceived one that had been better acquainted with him than I have the honour to be; besides Sir, 'twould have been too much in me, had I thought it had been my Rival, to have given so large a character of his per­formances before my Mistriss.

Well (reply'd Blacius) the certainty that it is Perolla cannot be great­er, than that he shall never have Izadora, who I will think innocent, because you do, and who upon your recovery, shall be the reward of your passion, and your wounds. Blacius immediately after went away, and Izadora to satisfie her Father, and her goodness, continued with Flamminius, whose gallantry she admir'd, as much as she esteem'd herself unfortunate, in being uncapable of rewarding it. But he (as soon as Blacius was retir'd) some­what touch'd with my carriage to him, but much more with what I had told him concerning Izadora's design upon herself, besought her, to permit him the honour of entertaining her without Witnesses, which she granted; and the Chamber being emptied, Flamminius told her particularly all that had past betwixt us, magnified my actions in terms as flattering as hand­som, and then conjured Izadora with passionate and moving words, to ac­quaint [Page 227] him ingenuously, Whether all I had delivered was true? but she (more perplex'd at this question, than she would have been to drink the fatal Bole) for a good while did nothing but fix her eyes upon him, and cry'd out, Oh gods! Flamminius, Oh gods! Flamminius, What is it you ask me? And at length answered him only in a shower of tears, which drew another from him, and words so distracted, yet so significant, that Iza­dora found, Rhetorick did not wholly consist in well speaking, or in talking sence. But Flamminius's disorder being somewhat mitigated, he continu'd, I perceive (fair Izadora) that your apprehensions I should destroy my life, when you do my hopes, hinders you from letting your words ac­knowledge, what your tears have done, but I beseech you believe, that I shall be more tormented in continuing your misery, than in knowing my own; that I shall consider my affliction as my joy, if it can build yours; and if by the learning my own misfortunes, I may put a period to Iza­dora's, she will more oblige me by building her Happiness on the ruine of mine, than if she continued my hopes, by her sufferings. Alas! (said Iza­dora) what shall I answer? for your virtue is such, that it makes mine my pain; and that constancy which I still gloried in, is now a subject as fit for my tears, as satisfaction. Oh gods! she continu'd after a short silence, why do you make virtue so offensive to virtue? why do you make Flammi­nius's virtue of such a quality, that I am troubled to profess mine? And why do you render perseverance in good, a torment as great, as the fault in declining it? Alas! Flamminius, press me not to tell you what I elected to shun by death, and guess at the nature of what I am to speak, by what I would have performed to avoid it; let it suffice, you having tied me to ap­prove of your passion, or your death, and that since my preingagement hindered me from cherishing the former, to preserve you from the latter, I was willing, and am resolved to exchange our destines. Great gods! ( Flamminius cry'd out) why did you teach me what retributions I ought to make so high a perfection, and so long delayed giving me the power to perform them; then turning to the excellency he had mention'd, he con­tinu'd, Fair Izadora, you have not only taught me what to practise, but given me the power to act it: Yes, I am now ready to lose my hopes, with­out my life, and the joyes of having served you in a way that you can no more hereafter doubt of, than reward my passion, will recompence my loss, and preserve a life which must be my contentment, since it has esta­blish'd yours, and is esteem'd by you. But why do I lengthen my discourse? 'Tis sufficient you learn (generous Spartacus) that the great Flamminius made a resignation of all his passions for Izadora, but those of being ser­viceable to her, and became as perfect a Friend, as he had been a Lover. This admirable change both he and Izadora acquainted me with, by a ser­vant of his, to whom she had told my retreat.

To draw to a conclusion, during Flamminius's weakness, he so perfectly acted the Lover before Blacius, and so perfectly the Friend, when he was absent, that Izadora was convinc'd (by so painful a part) he was as much concern'd in procuring her for me, as formerly he had been in doing it for himself; but when his health was so much return'd, that he could no lon­ger cloud the fallacy, we were all in new disorders: For Blacius, who was still confident of Izadora's constancy to me, and who suspected what she de­sign'd to attempt for her own deliverance, would be as soon as Flamminius was recover'd, so strictly kept his Daughter, that she was then absolutely confin'd to her chamber, whose windows were grated with Iron, and whose doors were justified by a Guard. Flamminius, in this exigency, to manifest [Page 228] his conversion, and to make himself uncapable of a relapse, advis'd us by speedy Marriage to exempt our selves from the power both of Blacius, and of Fortune; which course if we would elect, he was confident in some short time to furnish us with the means to practice. This both my Passion and Reason infinitely approv'd, and by Callione, with whom I had in disguise some private meetings in the Temple, I besought Izadora to be of my opinion, and made use of those very Arguments to her, that she had to me, when I was in the blest condition of Blacius's esteem, and appre­hended the contrary from Pacuvius; but that scrupulous Virtue resolv'd it as great a sin against her duty, to marry Perolla without her Fathers con­sent, as it was against her Vows, to Marry any other; and though the gene­rous Flamminius represented, that when he could no longer conceal his change from Blacius, she must expect to be depriv'd of his assistance; which if not made use of, whil'st he had the opportunity of paying it, might pro­bably alter her confinement, into a perpetual Prison; or by her Fathers presenting her a new Husband, necessitate her to act what she had but de­sign'd: yet all he could extort from Izadora, (in my favor) was, that she would contribute to any thing which might secure her from her Fathers vi­olence, so the place of her future Sanctuary were of such a quality, that she might be confident her Honour would no more suffer in Report, than in Act: this unalterable Decree cast us into new difficulties; and before we could imagine any way of suppressing them, Flamminius was so per­fectly recover'd, that Blacius publisht within two dayes the Nuptial, which had been interrupted, should be consummated. This Alarm (which I receiv'd from Callione,) by that just and high character I had of my late Rival, had no further operation on me, than the fears of what advantages we might lose by his banishment from Blacius, who permitted no creature but Flamminius, and Callione, to see Izadora; and who kept a Guard as strong, as faithful to him, at the door of his House, as at the door of her Chamber; but when my hope had resign'd itself to despair, he that to create my joyes, had ruin'd his own, was not content only to leave Izado­ra to me, but to help her to me; in prosecution of which gallantry, the day before the intended Marriage (for 'twas so long defer'd, either that he found not out the invention sooner, or else to endear it) by that free access he had into Izadora's Chamber, he came to visit her, with a Counte­nance as full of satisfaction, as if he, not another, had been to enjoy the fruits of his industry; and there inform'd her, that he had seen, and con­sequently ador'd her, coming to Salapia to visit an Aunt of his, who was chief of Diana's Vestals, whom that morning he had acquainted with all his Story, and whom he had persuaded, to repair what his Civility to her had caus'd, to receive her into that Nunnery, without those oaths which they really admitted must necessarily take, and thereby, by deluding Bla­cius's belief, frustrate his hopes of forcing her return into the world, 'till she might make it her election, and not constraint. I cannot express with what joy and acknowledgment Izadora receiv'd this News, both which were in­creast by Flamminius, assuring her, that before the Night was many hours old, he would conduct her safely to her retirement; and towards the effect­ing it, presented her with a water of so excellent a quality, that its nour­ture was Iron; this strange Liquor he apply'd to the Bars of the Windows, in little Channels of Wax, which did its operation so powerfully, and si­lently; that late at Night when he repeated his Visit, he found a breach in the Window, large enough for Izadora and Callione to get out at, which they did by a Ladder of Silk he had purposely brought. They were no [Page 229] sooner descended into the Garden, upon which the Window answer'd, than by the ordinary way (to delude the Guards at her door) he went thither himself, and by picking the Lock, they got into a retir'd street, where by Flamminius's appointment I attended them. I cannot tell you what were my expressions of joy, and gratitude to my Mistriss, and my Rival; nor what Prayers, and Reasons, I us'd to invite her rather to a Temple, than a Nunnery, and to embrace the opportunity of an union, when the gods presented us so favourable an one: that to decline it, was not to rely on, but tempt their Provicence. 'Tis too much you know, that all was fruit­les, and that we conducted Izadora to her living Grave. Who can repeat Blacius's amazement, when next morning, instead of finding his Daughter preparing herself to be a Bride, he only found a Letter on the Table, of what forlorn courses his rigor had forc'd her to; but though his surprize, and astonishment, had been as high as fancy could reach, yet it could not transcend Izadora's and mine, when discoursing together, we were adverti­sed that one of Apollo's Priests desir'd to speak with us, who being admit­ted, we found `twas Flamminius which had taken that Holy O [...]der, and who told us, That having lost the hopes of this world, he would no longer livein it; that having been a servant to Izadora, he could not go less, lo­sing that servitude, than become one to the gods, that he was the more fit­ted for their service, by having practised under their perfectest resembler; and at last so passionately beg'd a pardon for having so much endanger'd Izadora's safety, as to have brought it to an equal Fight, (though his Vi­ctory had been both his and her ruine) and so admirable declam'd upon a speculative and recluse life, that we could not more absolutely excuse what he had done against us, than admire what he had done for us; which had it not been of a quality that had plac'd us above the thoughtsof any other felicity, Izadora had esteem'd a real Nunnery, and I the taking of Flamminius's habit a blessing. But what he had perform'd, render'd fruit­less what he had spoken; and his actions were more eloquent, than his words. When this great man had spent about an hour with us, he took his eternal leave, with a look asserene as his thought, and with words as heavenly as his profession; we both accompany'd him, as far as we durst, and then casting our selves at his feet, we implor'd him, by his Prayers, to preserve us in that condition, as his Virtue had placed us in; which having faithfully promis'd to endeavour, he return'd to that holy Society, of which he was the greatest glory, and the noblest portion. After our tears were something lessen'd for so sad a separation, because I had but that day allow­ed me by Flamminius's Aunt to entertain Izadora in, (which too, was a favor above example) I employ'd the small time that was left, to implore her permission (now that she was in an inviolable Sanctuary, and my Visits thither prohibited) to return to Scipio, and Massanissa, by whose favors (upon the knowledge of my condition) I made no doubt but to procure the Senate to enjoin Blacius to permit our Nuptials; which course was suf­ficiently justifiable, since we sought to make use of Power, but to oppose Tyranny; and to obtain that from Authority, which was deny'd to Rea­son: that since the severe Laws of the Society she was in, permitted me not to see or speak with her, during her residence there, my absence in Asrick or Italy was the same; and by my continuance about Salapia, I might in­duce Blacius to suspect she was a conditional, not an absolute Vestal, and increase his hatred, by increasing his jealousie. These reasons (and my engagement of a sudden return) obtained her consent for my journey, [Page 230] which I began the next morning, having first sent a friend to beg Pacu­vius's permission to pay him the duty of a Son; who returned me word, that he knew of none which bore that name, but that if ever Perolla ap­peared before him, he should esteem it the highest injury he had ever done him. The grief of this message, was not much inferior to the satisfaction of having freed Izadora from so great a hazard, and the having setled her in as great a security. But I must acknowledge (Sir, continu'd Perolla, speaking to my Prince) in this Voyage my heart and my tongue were strangers; for though what I have specifi'd were the pretence of it, yet the design was to prosecute Hannibal, whose wrongs to Izadora and me, though they were as hard to be reveng'd as pardon'd, yet I could not but undertake the former, not being able to grant him the latter, and I esteem'd the Siege of Carthage would furnish me with an occasion. But as I was go­ing to Capua to take ship for Africk, I met Scipio returned from thence; he Landed at Lillibeum in Sicily, from whence all the way to Rome he was met, with merited and triumphant Songs and Trophies. That great man ha­ving pardon'd my uncivil departure, upon the knowledge of the cause, told me the particular conditions Carthage had submitted unto, without a Siege, (which are too long to be specified) and which were in substance, they had acknowledg'd themselves vanquish'd, in such a way, that the very proofs they had given of that confession, ty'd them perpetually to continue so. He inform'd me also, as a testimony of their believing them­selves as justly, as absolutely conquer'd, that a Senator asking them by what gods they would swear to keep the Peace? He was answer'd by As­drubal, Even by the very same gods we have found so severe to those that violate it.

After I had awhile congratulated a Success which none could doubt, that were not ignorant of Scipio's quarrel and virtue, and after I had beg­ged his assistance in converting Blacius, I took leave of him, and learning that Hannibal was about Carthage, at Scipio's departure thence, I rowed down the River Vulturnus that night, next morning set Sail for Africk, and in three dayes arrived where I thought my Enemy was; but I found that but six dayes before, he had embark'd himself for Asia, and had elected the Court of King Antiochus for his retreat: Thither I directed my jour­ney, resolving to prosecute him with as little intermission, as he had Izado­ra's virtue; but the gods were so much enemies to my design, that what by tedious sickness, what by the crossness of the winds, I arriv'd not there, 'till there was nothing left of the Carthaginian, but his fame; he himself being gone to Prusia's King of Bithinia, after he had lost the Battel of Magnesia at Sea, by the Cowardice of Apolonius his Colleague; who fly­ing away, left all the Right Wing of the Enemies Fleet entire, to fall upon the Carthaginians Squadron that was much shatter'd in obtaining a Victo­ry over the Rhodians which compos'd the Left: But this misfortune was term'd a Crime by Antiochus's Courtiers, who apprehended Hannibals knowledge in War, would soon, if once manifested to their King, discover their ignorance in it. I cannot omit telling you a passage which perhaps you may esteem worthy the digression, when Antiochus was at Ephesus, and Hannibal with him, the Romans, amongst many other Ambassadors they sent to that great King, elected Scipio for one, who discoursing familiarly with the Carthaginian, desir'd to know of him, who he esteem'd the noblest General of all others? Hannibal answer'd, first he thought Alexander King of Macedon the chiefest; next to him, Pyrrhus King of Epire; and third­ly, [Page 231] Hannibal. Scipio (smiling) ask'd him, What wouldst thou say Han­nibal, if thou hadst vanquisht me. Truly (said he) then I would have been the chiefest my self. This Reply was the handsomest Compliment I have heard, for without counting Scipio amongst the greatest, he inclusive­ly acknowledg'd him so.

To conclude our Story, I will not tell you all Hannibals Actions under Prusias, in his Wars against Eumenes King of Pergamus, 'tis enough you know wheresoever I follow'd him, I found him (by his Military virtue) a General, and at last (through a thousand troubles and dangers) I came to Libissa, the Town of his Residence, where the next morning I intended to endeavor the finishing of that Combat in Asia, which was but begun in Asrick; and that which gave me the hopes of effecting it with less pain, was, that by a new contracted jealousie of Prusias's, he liv'd then but as a private person. The day no sooner appear'd, than I went to Hannibals house, but alas I found all his Domesticks weeping over his dead body, and inquiring from one of the principallest of them, the occasion of that dis­aster; he told me, That Titus Quintus Flamminius, a Roman Ambassador to Prusias, having seen Hannibal in his Court, was so incensed at that object, by the remembrance of those miseries his Valor had involv'd the Roman Empire in, that he never left solliciting the barbarous King, to revenge their sufferings on the Actor of them, 'till he had obtained an order to have him delivered into his hands; which the generous Hannibal inform'd of, to prevent falling into a Romans power, had that night temper'd an ex­act Poyson, and hearing Prusias's Guards forcing his Lodgings, cry'd out, Come, let us end our own misery, and the Roman fears, and then drank of the fatal Cup, which has afforded him that ease, which none that know him, and Virtue, can participate of, till they are in his condition; but (said the sad servant) I beseech you (Sir) observe in this example, how much the present Romans do degenerate from their Ancestors; those preserved their conquering Enemy from Poyson, and these induce a King, contrary to the Laws of Hospitality, and Faith, to betray his Guest. Hannibals servant could speak no more for weeping; and though I was sorry any but Perol­la should revenge Izadora, yet I was satisfi'd that the gods (by making him become his own Executioner) evinc'd, his Crimes were great by their punishment, and declared their justice to be so too, in forcing him that had been her Enemy, to become his own, and her Revenger. The next day this great Captain was buried, and my anger dying with the cause of it, I esteem'd it a duty to attend his body to the Tomb, which had no other In­scription, but HERE LIES HANNIBAL, and indeed was not ca­pable of a greater. This Solemnity perform'd, I began to return into Ita­ly, from whence my Revenge had too long detain'd me, but the misfortunes I endur'd, and the obstructions I met with were such, that I arriv'd not in this City, 'till the very day the Inhabitants of it sent to treat with the ge­nerous Spartacus, which to do byfear, and not by necessity, I esteem'd so low a thing, that making my self known, I made their duty so to them, which was to oppose their captivity in a way, that if afterward it prov'd their destiny, yet at least it would be esteem'd their misfortune, and not their crime. The first day our success was proportionate to our desires, and the next, where Canitius storm'd, I had the fortune to oppose, and worst him; but whil'st a fresh Alarm drew me, though not the Guard, from that Post, by your unresistable Sword, you made a passage for your Army, as easie for them, as glorious for your self; But I thank the gods ( Perolla continu'd) that I was call'd away, for perhaps my sacrilegious Arm might [Page 232] have been employ'd against a Virtue, which to have fought against, or re­sisted, would have more troubled me, than to be vanquisht by it, and which to know, is so great a felicity, that I count my defeat an easie purchase of it. The news of you possessing that quarter of the Town, no sooner came to me in this, than not knowing to what insolency the Soldiers hea [...], autho­rized by a successful As [...]ault, might raise them to, abandoning all other cares but those for Izadora, I ran to the Religious House she was in, and carried her from thence to Pacuvius's, there to preserve her Honour, or not live to see it violated; where all those friends I had about me, were lost in so gene­rous a defence, and where (when my resistance was no longer useful) I deriv'd that from my Enemies virtue, which the gods deny'd my endea­vors, and my sword.

'T was thus (said) Symander to Callimmachus) that Perolla finisht his Story, on which, if I have too long insisted, 'twas to publish what were a sin to conceal. It remains now to acquaint you, what period had our Lovers sufferings, in which my Prince so justly sympathiz'd, that he had doubtless made use of his power to settle them in their joyes, had he not first esteem'd it requisite to hear what their fathers could object, which ha­ving invited them to, P [...]cuvius addrest his discourse unto him in these terms.

If I thought your justice were not as great as your conquests, I might ap­prehend, after Izadora's Story, that you would not have the patience to hear my defence, but look upon that as an evincement of my being as highly guilty of cruelty, as I am confident by that time I have ended speak­ing, you will think me free from it; for I will make it evident, that all those Actions which she alledges, proceed from his inclinations to her, and to virtue, are only testimonies of his hatred to his father. His high gene­rosity, and a desire of freeing his Countrey, was, to kill Hannibal, my great­est friend, which was far worse than to have murther'd me, my death had ended all miseries with it; but to survive such a friend, was to endure a torment, which none but he that resented it, can believe; or if I thought death a greater contentment than life, by that Action he reduc'd me to the sad extremity of being my own Executioner; but that which was worse than all this, he design'd to murther that great Conqueror in my own house, where he would have no Guards but my Fidelity; which to have violated, had been a breach of Trust, and Hospitality, two of the most sacred Tyes, and all this under a pretence of serving the Romans, who had they not scorn'd to owe their safety to a sin that had render'd them unworthy of it, night certainly have found spirits of a temper apt enough to sacrifice them­selves, to have preserv'd the Publick; but the high esteem they yet pay Fabritius's memory, for not permitting one of Pyrrhus's own Subjects, up­on (as it were) the eve of their ruine, to poyson him, does sufficiently demonstrate, they had rather hazard their Empire, than their Reputation; and certainly if they thought it gallantry in Fabritius, not to purchase their safeties, by only permitting an ill Act in an Epyrote, which he had no interest in, but what his knowledge of it gave him, how much would they then condemn a Roman, when their State was not near in so great a hazard, so that that which he would have appear an obligation to his Countrey, would have been really a sin against it, and his family: But besides, who knows, if after having done the Fact, he would not have fled, (for I can hardly believe, he that would act a treacherous design, would expose his life to justifie he intended it for a generous one) and so have lest me a sa­ [...]rifi [...]e to the fury of Hannibal's Soldiers.

[Page 233]The next proof of his Affection to me, was to preserve my greatest ene­mies Life, when I might by so favourable an adventure have purchas'd that Death, which I would a thousand times have bought by my own, had not higher considerations, plac'd limits to my just revenge. He pretends indeed, that he comes to see me, but the event justifies, 'tis to preserve Blacius; he is loaden with wounds for the defence of Izadora's Father, and spends that bloud for his preservation, which could not have been more generously spilt, than for his destruction; in a word, he employs that Life I gave him, to preserve his, that he knew, made mine my greatest torment; and as if all those were not sufficient wrongs, he makes his House his Sanctuary, and thereby excludes me, and his friends, from affording him any demonstrations of our care; but that I look upon as an argu­ment of his guilt, which was of a quality, to make him esteem himself safer with his Enemies, than with me. But his most unpardonable crime was, to become a Slave to one of that Family, whose greatest ambition should have been, to have made all of them his; nay, Courts her with Sighs and Tears, to accept his Liberty, and by a thousand such unworthy submis­sions endeavours to make me question his Mothers Faith, which I should have done, did I not know one of the greatest vices, is to suspect she hadany; for in a long succession of years, there were none legitimate of our Line till the degenerate Perolla, but with their milk, suck'd a hatred for that of Blacius's; but he had no sooner gotten his health, and lost his liberty, but more joyful of the last than of the first, he quits Salapia, without paying me the duty of a visit, which was the pretence of his coming thither, and his impiety not being yet come to the height of attempting my Life with his own hand, he endeavours it obliquely, by taking up Arms for the Romans, against the Carthaginians, in whose party I was so engag'd, that he could not prosecute their overthrow and effect it, without involving me in their ruine; and when the great Hannibal, had justly censur'd Bla­cius to death, for his pactice with the Romans, Perolla (that I might not suspect the first service he did him, was by accident, but design) engages all such of his friends as he could seduce, and with them, employs his Sword, and Life, to redeem my greatest enemies; in which attempt, as you have heard, he had a success proportionate to his desires; and after that Blacius was found out, and brought to the Scaffold, there to receive the punishment of his offences, lest I might yet doubt he lov'd his Ene­mies, as much as he hated his Father, he voluntarily embraces Death, to justify that Truth. Judge (Sir) if ever there were a higher injury than this, and if by it, my hatred be not as just, as great, for in this one action, he destroys that Life, he knew (maugre all his ingratitude) I yet lov'd best, to preserve his, whom I hated most; but he was preserv'd from death by Izadora's Tears; Izadora I say, one of Blacius Family, which had he had any generosity, he should rather have suffer'd, than ow'd his delive­rance to such a Deliverer; For my part, the cause of his safety, took away all my joyes for the effect, and made me celebrate his preservation in Tears: but though Hannibal pardon'd his life, yet he kept him in prison, where he had still retain'd him, had not the generous Maharbal given him his li­berty, which he had no sooner obtain'd, than he employes it by bearing Arms under the Romans) for his destruction that gave it him; but perhaps he will say, he redeem'd that fault by giving Maharbal his life; to which I an­swer, that was no satisfaction for the old Crime; but the acting of a new one, for he was only treacherous to his friends, to repair his ingratitude to his Enemies, and thereby committed one sin, to act another; he makes [Page 234] the publique, pay for his particular fault, and redeems his own unworthi­ness, by depriving the party he serv'd, of so considerable a prisoner; be­sides, what happen'd was but an accident, but his taking up Arms was a design. Thus you see, those actions he most glories in, being diligently enquir'd into, are found contrary to what they appear'd, and if his best performances are crimes, what are then his others? He was an earnest per­secutor of Hannibal, (my greatest friend) while he continu'd in Italy, all my perswasions, and Prayers, not being able to hinder him so much, as from acting against him in his person; and as if the knowledge of the affection I pay'd that great General, were a sufficient cause to creat Perolla's hatred for him, he left his own Countrey, and his Izadora too, to prosecute him under Scipio in Africk, and at that famous Battel at Zama, a thousand times ventur'd his own life, to deprive Hannibal of his; and though he al­ledges that he preserved him, when he might have acted his destruction; yet I shall beseech you to consider, he is but his own Witness, and whether it be likely he would have neglected that opportunity, had it been offer'd, which he has since sought out over all the world, and never declin'd, whilst there was any possibility of finding it, He was not only content to injure me in my Friend, but does it too in my Enemy: and that I might not doubt his perseverance in his former courses, by stealing away Izadora (in which Sin every accessary is a principal) he violates both Humane and Divine Laws, and rather elects the committing of so high a crime, than that I should want testimonies of so proportionate a Truth; [...]y, by his own confession, would have Married her, and joyn'd those two Blouds together, that never till then were united, but when they ran from Wounds, and mingled on the ground, and would thereby have ty'd my Hand from revenge, or for [...]'d me to act it, thorough my only Son. Lastly, and that I hope will not prove in your judgement inferior to any, when your victorious Arms had struck such a terror into our Citizens, that we were going to present you our Keys, and Liberties, he, by his unfortunate perswasion, and example, made them take up Arms, and for [...]'d you to purchase your Victory by Blood, reduc'd his Countrey and Friends, to a fatal subjection, or death, or to owe to their Deliverance to a Mercy, they have so highly offended, that they are unworthy of it; but if you exe­cute the rigor of War upon us, and that your Justice involves Perolla in the publique Fate, I shall then find my happiness in my destruction, and more commend Fortune in revenging me upon him, than be displeas'd at her, for my own and Salapia's ruine. Spartacus and all the assistants, were infinitely surpriz'd at so strange a reasoning, and request: But my Prince put a silence to the general murmur, by inviting Blacius to speak, who thus obey'd him.

I attest the gods (said he, lifting his Eyes and his Hands to the place of their residence) that from the time Perolla preserv'd my life, it has been my misfortune; for if ever since, I deriv'd any joy from this Woman, (point­ing at Izadora) 'twas only learning by my own sufferings, in her want of Duty, what Pacuvius's were in his Sons immitating her crime; but because she has told her own story with so much Art, that it may induce you to consider my resentments, as an injustice, I shall briefly give you a true Com­ment upon it; I confess she had my Command to cherish, and esteem him that preserv'd my life; but she had it not to give those retributions to Perolla: That ignorance, which (I believe) procur'd my safety, pro­cur'd that injunction; I found him my Friend, when I gave him my af­fection, but she knew him my Enemy, when she gave him hers, Observe [Page 235] too, I beseech you, how confident this young man was of having it; when the argument he us'd to make her declare that Truth, was only, if she avow'd it not, he would kill her Fathers Enemy; that which was a just motive to silence her Flame, was his inducement to invite her to disclose it; in which one action she doubly injur'd me, in not only being content to save my mortal'st Enemy, when too, she contributed nothing to his ruine, but the performing of her Duty, but also in making the pur­chase of that safety, the loss of my only Child; she obey'd me, whilst she knew I was ignorant of what I did, and disobey'd me, when she ignor'd not what I enjoyn'd, but that also the injunction was just; besides, after I had preserv'd Perolla's life, when I had both Power and Justice, to ex­tinguish it, by her receiving his prohibited visits, and by making a con­tract of passions with him, she thereby endeavours to induce me to detest Charity, by converting the effects of Mine, into so sensible a gief; and when for my successful endeavours and duty to the Roman Empire, I became Hanniba'ls prisoner, she invites an assistance for my Liberty, which I had declar'd in her hearing was a greater misfortune than that execu­tion I was menac'd with; whereby she did offend either my professions or me; the first, by not crediting them, or the last, in acting against them, if she believ'd their Truth; nay, she acknowledg'd she was apprehensive of losing her happiness, in attempting to preserve a part, intending her Lover by the former, and her Father by the latter, thereby becoming so impious, as before Perolla was her Husband, to give him a precedency, only due unto that relation: She is so earnest to disoblige me, that she impudently confest, she put her self in the highest perplexity she was ca­pable of, to involve me in a resembling one. When I was got out of prison, in the hurry of that change, she endeavours to extort a declaration from me, that in a setled temper of mind, she knew my judgement would deny; gives Perolla unjust praises, to make me give him an unjust reward, and would render that an act of Friendship for me, which was but one of Friendship to himself, as you may be pleas'd to remember I then largely evinc'd; but when the second time I was taken, whether it proceeded from their revenge, or my own misfortune, I will not positively deter­mine; Alas (Sir) how ungrateful was her carriage? she says that she came to preserve my life, but her actions say, 'twas to preserve Perolla's and when her Fathers, and her Loverslife, came in competition, she gave up the first a Sacrifice, to preserve the last from being one; neither can she alledge this impious proceeding, was an effect of a precipitate electi­on upon a suddain emergency; for after she had publish'd her Love was the god over her Duty, Hannibal (startled at a Declaration which was even a Monster in Nature) gave her, not only leasure to reflect on her crime, but power to recall it; yet she, to demonstrate that the murther­ing her Father, was a premeditated design, and not a hasty choice, per­severes in, and repeats her impiety, when he that was to receive the ad­vantage of it condemn'd, and detested it: which action of Virtue, her depraved reason makes a confirmative argument for her continuing in her vice, This (Sir) which I alledge, would be, I believe, the reasoning of a stranger, which has any, but now I beseech you, let us take her own sence upon this way of proceeding; she first alledg'd, that I had not been gratefull enough to Perolla's Virtue, and that now she was to act my part, she would make him know what his performances were, and what my gratitude should have been by her Retributions. To this I answer, that [Page 236] besides my former saving his life, after his Father treacherously endeavour'd to take away mine, the condition I then was in, sufficiently confirm'd my Gratitude; for the same Proclamation which gave her a rise to save my life, by her declaring who 'twas that fore'd the Prison for my deli­verance, gave me the same power, (for no one was excluded by the ma­nifest) which my Gratitude made me decline, and rather elect to lose my own life, than secure it by hazarding my preservers; (for I was confident the Guards were too strict to have admitted his going out of Salapia) and though as in this action I evinc'd, that I preferr'd my Gratitude, before my life, so I did too, too, that I preferr'd death, before any alliance with Pacuvi­us's Bloud; yet she persever'd in a passion, which tended to that, or a more unlegitimate end; Hernext allegation is as vain as the first; for to justify she murther'd me with a good intention, she designs to murther her self, as if one crime could expiate another, or as if having kill'd one of the Family, the destroying of the residue, were a sufficient reparation; No, Sir, she loves Pacuvius's Bloud so much, that she has a hatred to her own, for being the object of his, and so weds his resentments, that she executes her Father, herself, and consequently all her family, to act them; but my enemy wasmore merciful than my Daughter, for I receiv'd that life from Hannibal, which Izadora deny'd me, and though those Crimes (her Constancy in a forbid­den Flame, and her seeking Death, because of a supposed loss which she knew, was my satisfaction) might have induc'd me to consider her suffer­ings, as an immediate justice of the gods, for her want of duty; yet as soon as Hannibal threaten'd to be their instrument in it, I not only hazard­ed my Life and Fortune to prevent it, but also embrac'd her satisfaction with so much concern, that rather than continue her languishings, I intend­ed to set a period to them by giving her to Perolla; which I had effected, had not he at the same time I was acting his felicity, been robbing me of my Glory; for though he attributed his immediate leaving of Salapia after Hannibal's repulse, to a design of suppressing any jealousie his continuance in it might create, yet I was perfectly inform'd, 'twas his Ambition not his Respect, that caus'd it; and his speedy return to the Camp, was only to ingross an honor to himself, which in a good proportion was built with my Bloud; neither did his long abstaining from justifying himself to me, proceed (as his Mistriss said) from his ignorance of my resentments, but from his being conscious of the justice of them; (And though she magni­fies Pacuvius's Sons gallantry, in crediting my Change, I must only his Reason, since in that only, by what I had already done, he might well credit any thing I should doe. But after that, by Perolla's new affront, I had alter'd my resolutions, by esteeming him unworthy of my Ally­ance, that esteem'd me unworthy of justice, and after that, by my former concessions, I had manifested to her, my present resentments were effects of my Reason, and not of aversion for her Lover, yet she was so far from sympathizing with me in my legitimate resolves, that when I presented her Flamminius, who wanted nothing but the be­ing of Pacuvius Family, she was notonly content to decline the Husband I approv'd, but elected one I justly abhorr'd; and when his being more in­tent, in Affrick on her Revenge, than his Love, which might have some­thing lessen'd hers, had like to have render'd her disobedience without excuse, she determines to abandon her Father, and the World, rather than a negligent Lover; and was satisfy'd with no way of being reliev'd from her Distress, unless she increases her own Crime, by making Perolla act [Page 237] another; nay, so much abhorrs any thing from her Fathers recommenda­tion, that Flamminius coming to her upon that score, she will rather ha­zard her Lovers Bloud, than spare his. To conclude, that her impiety might be uncapable of any accession, and to resemble her Servant as per­fectly in Sin, as in Affection, she (like him) by stealing away, violates all Divine and Humane Laws; and her not being Married, which she al­ledges to qualify her Crime, is an aggravation of it, for flying from her Fa­ther to her Husband, had been only an offence in giving Perolla that Ti­tle, but flying from her Father to her Lover, she must be more oblig'd to Mens Charities, than to her actions, if they have not thereby as bad a Character of her Chastity, as I of her Duty. These (Sir) said Blacius, are my reasonings, and as I believe they are not much dissonant from Truth, which gives me a confidence, that if your justice be proportionable to your power, you will right an injur'd Father; but if her Sex moves you to pitty, Perolla's I hope will not; your punishment of him will oblique­ly repair my wrongs, for either his death will be the occasion of hers, or if she revive him, her torment, or her cure, will be my satisfaction. This discourse did but increase that wonder Pacuvius had given a being unto; And my Prince was preparing himself to declaim upon a Theme, which would have furnish'd reasons to a Judgement as ill, as his was excellent, when he was diverted by a noise, and suddainly perceiv'd the occasion of it, was the coming in of Granius, Furiles, and some other Officers of his Army, that presented him with two Salapians, whose very sight almost de­priv'd Pacuvius, and Blacius, both of theirs, and of their Lives: Spartacus observ'd it, and so did our generous Lovers, but being ignorant of the cause, they expected with much patience to learn it, which they soon did, by one of the Salapians, addressing himself to Spartacus, in these words. Sir, we are come to beg Justice of you, for you, These two Gentlemen (pointing at Pacuvius and Blacius) whose guilt is as much in their Faces, as in their Hearts, observing in the Assault, that my Companion and I, em­ploy'd our Lives somewhat prodigally for the defence of our City, inferr'd from thence, that we would hazard them, to be reveng'd on the Conque­ror of it; and in this Faith came severally to us, and by assurances of ex­cessive rewards, hir'd us by our treachery, to destroy what we could not by our Swords. This office we accepted; were seemingly wicked, but to be really the contrary; and undertook to kill you, that we might preserve you; for we apprehended our declining their overture, might have in­duc'd them to invite some others to embrace it, where the greatness of the reward, might have cover'd the greatness of the crime; besides (Sir) for us to have undertook such a design, had been a Sin against Gratitude, as well as Honour; for we are two of those that receiv'd our Liberties, when we expected our Deaths, and if we employ'd those Lives against you, which we receiv'd from you, 'twas not only by your permission, but by your command; and since to obey you, we durst draw our Swords against you, you cannot suspect we will decline any other obedience. The Sala­pian had no sooner done speaking, than Blacius first, and afterwards Pacu­vius, acknowledg'd by their words,, what their tremblings and disorders had confest; and though they severally alledg'd, that the ignorance they then were in, of my Prince's virtue, and their knowledge, that in him on­ly consisted the Life and Soul of his Army, had induc'd them to that re­venge, yet all the Assistants (but the generous Lovers) were so enrag'd at them, for their Tyranny to their Children, and their intended trea­chery [Page 238] treachery to so mild a Conqueror, that there was nothing heard in that great Assembly but Cryes, that Spartacus should revenge himself, that he should extirpate such Monsters out of the World, and pay with their Lives, those Crosses which they had given to Izadora and Perolla.

Granicus too, and the other Officers that came with him, inform'd Spartacus, that they had been already condemn'd by a Court-Marshal upon that Article, That whosoever endeavour'd the death of the Gene­ral, should receive his own, for his punishment, so that he had nothing to do, but to give the Law its course, which in that case to oppose, was not to be merciful, but unjust. All this while the generous Lovers were so confounded, that had not their innocence been known, their disorders and trouble, had been taken for their Guilt; but my Prince having whisper'd something privately to Euriles, he went to Izadora, and her generous Ser­vant begg'd them to excuse an execution which Blacius and Pacuvius me­rited, had it been only for their cruelty to them, that in their deaths they might read the justice of the gods, by rendring their vices, (which had been the cause of their own troubles) the occasion of their Parents pu­nishment, and of their own quiet; that since for him to be just, would make them happy, he hoped they would pardon a revenge, which he inflicted as much upon their score, as his own. Then my Prince bid Euriles carry away the Delinquents, to receive the censure had been gi­venthem. At that sad command, both Izadora and Perolla cast themselves at Spartacus Feet, which having a while wash'd with their Tears, they begg'd him either to alter his sentence, or permit them to participate in it; that if the death of their Fathers must be the only way to their union; they would be content with the being eternally deny'd it, rather than purchase it at that rate; that they should be more miserable in the loss of their Parents, than in their cruelty: and lastly, they protested by invio­lable Oaths, if they suffer'd; they would perpetually banish themselves from each others company, and either by grief or resolution, suddenly follow them. Then rising up from my Prince, they prostrated themselves at their Fathers Feet, where they again reiterated those engagements, and in such passionate terms, and moving actions implor'd their pardons for those disobediences their Lovers, (not they) had committed, and which they would suddainly repair, by embracing a resembling destiny to theirs, that my Prince could not abstain from crying out, Tyrants, are you so much fortified against Virtue, that so powerful an assault, must re­main fruitless? can Fathers see that without pity, which Strangers cannot? can Nature be insensible against the attempts of Nature? Whilst Spartacus was speaking many things of this quality, Izadora and her generous Servant had by their weepings so laid their Fathers rage, as showres do storms, that those Clouds of hatred, which had so long hinder'd Reason, and Nature from shining, began by little and little to dispell, and they were no sooner absolutely vanish'd, than Blacius first went to Perolla, and Pa­cuvius afterwards to Izadora, and in more Tears, than Words, acknow­ledg'd their repentance, and conversion, and when their several passions permitted them to speak, they joyfully commanded them to consider their sentence; but as a tribute to the Law of Nature, and War, and that they should in the joys of their union, extinguish all the sorrow their Deaths could inspire, which they protested was not so great a trouble to them, as that they had so long, and cruelly hinder'd it.

I am, I confess (continu'd Symander) unable to tell you Spartacus's rap­tures at this change; he first ran to the Fathers, embracing them, pardon'd [Page 239] them, and gave them as many thanks for their conversion, as if he had been to enjoy the effect of it; then he went to our generous Lovers, told them, that his private Commands to Euriles were much different from his pub­lique ones, that he seem'd to be cruel, but to make their Fathers just; that he was glad an attempt against his life, had setled the Felicity of theirs which he would have gladly bought by the attempts, having been turn'd into an execution. I should lose my self, did I acquaint you with Perolla's and Izadora's extasies, with Pacuvius and Blacius's embracings, their beg­ing mutual Pardons for a hate, which then was converted into as great a friendship, and with all their gratitudes to Spartacus. To finish their Adventures, 'tis sufficient I tell you all things changed their Faces, and those passions of Hatred, Fear, and Revenge, resign'd their places unto Love, Friendship, and Kindness, and as soon as those wounds Perolla had receiv'd from the Sword; permitted him to heal those he had receiv'd from Love, he was put in possession of his Izadora, which was a felicity so far above needing a foyl to set it off, that his past troubles and crosses were not consider'd, but forgot; And lest you should think I have the two Salapians, or Spartacus, I will tell you, that the former had abundant cause given them of satisfaction, and the latters Adventures I will now resume, where I broke them off.

PARTHENISSA.
THE SECOND PART.
BOOK II.

AFter my Prince had seen the Solemnities perform'd of so perfect an Union, wherein he omitted no­thing which might testify his satisfaction at it; That the Salapians might for ever remember, and be sharers in the joy; Spartacus assembl'd the chief­est of them together, and in terms as obliging as the action it self, inform'd them: That least they might alledge Perolla's Courage drew them into their misfortunes he protested, the just esteem he had of it, and of his virtue, made him restore them to their former free­dom; That for his sake, and the fair Izadora's, he would immediately withdraw his Army from their City, which should never approach it again but for their preservation, for which he would at any time relinquish his own designs, and repeat as great dangers to defend, as he had done to take it. This generous declaration (as they all profest) afforded them a satis­faction, far transcending the grief they resented, for that loss, which gave my dear Master the power of thus obliging them; and to pub­lish their gratitude, as well as contentment, they deputed immediately from the body of the People, certain select Citizens to the generous Lo­vers, where after an Oration (too tedious to be remembr'd,) they con­cluded, that since their own sufferings, had been the cause of their Feli­city, they were so far from deploring them, that they would willingly un­dergo greater, if they might produce a resembling effect. These Ceremo­nies were no sooner finisht, than Spartacus went to take his leave of Perol­la and Izadora, the last of which (in both their Names) conjur'd him to acquaint them who he was, for they could not fancy, so sublime a virtue had a disproportionable extraction. Alas Madam (said my Prince, extream­ly surpriz'd) what is it that you ask of me? then after some deep sighs (which the reflection on his miseries forc'd from him) he continu'd; I take the gods for witnesses, (fair Izadora) did not an inviolable Vow tye me to a concealment of myself, I would have satisfy'd your curiosity, as soon as I had known it, but all that I dare inform you of, is, That I had my birth in As [...]a; that I am born a Prince of the greatest bloud of the World; that an infelicity in Love has not made me abandon my Countrey onely, but my hopes, and forces me to languish in as high torments, as you are now in joyes. These sad words, and the remembrance of the cause which pro­duc'd them, struck Spartacus with so black a melancholly, that it prov'd contagious, and communicated it self to the fair Izadora, and her generous [Page 241] servant, who judging what those misfortunes must be which could have so powerful an ascendent, over so admirable a courage and judgment, imme­diately converted those Prayers which they had used for the learning of his Adventures, for his Pardon in having desir'd a knowledge of them. After that Perolla in civility and sympathy, had awhile continu'd in silence, he at last interrupted it, by saying to Spartacus, Generous Prince (for I should have given your Virtue that Title, had I yet been ignorant of your Birth) since you are resolv'd that we shall only know you by the felicities you have plac'd us in, permit me to offer you that life you have preserv'd, and made me relish; perhaps it may serve you, and help to build for you, what you have perfected in me; I know the fair Izadora will dispense with my absence, when she considers the cause of it, and will be as much satis­fi'd with my Gratitude, as with my Company. This I implore (continu­ed Perolla) as the only means to let you know my resentments, whose greatness you cannot suspect, since I beg even to forsake Izadora, to acquaint you with them.

This offer (said Spartacus, embracing Perolla) is far more obliging, than if it were acted; for I know no way which could render me more unworthy of it, than the accepting it: Neither could I embrace so gene­rous a motion, without being as much an enemy to my own happiness, as to yours; for the only consolation in my misfortunes is, that they have put a period to yours, and by your abandoning the excellent Izadora, that also would be revisht from me. I should never finish my relation, did I acquaint you with all those noble tears and expressions which were shed, and spo­ken, at my Princes departure; but, in a word, to describe the strange ope­ration it had, not only Pacuvius and Blacius, but all the Salapians were un­consolable, and so justly admir'd his Virtues, that they almost accounted it a misfortune to return to their former liberty, since the being deprived of his company, was the rate of that purchase. At last all the divisions and Squadrons of my Princes Army marched out of the City, rather like Friends than Conquerors, and received at the Gates so liberal a Largess, that they had as much reason to be satisfied with the Salapians, as the Salapians had to be so with them: All the Nobility and Gentry, accompanied him two Miles on his march, where they made him so many fresh Retributions for his Civilities, that he found his Sword had not been the only thing which had Conquer'd them. 'T was at this last farewell that Spartacus having ta­ken his leave of all the rest, reiterated his Vows of perpetual Friendship to Perolla, whose grief was of a nature not to be exprest by any thing, so well as silence. But alas those Glories and Triumphs lost that name, or at least their operation with my Prince, he languisht in the midst of Prosperi­ty, and had been more obliged to Fortune, if she had presented him with Death, instead of Lawrels. All that day, and the next following, he con­tinued in so silent a melancholy, that those which knew not the Cause, ad­mired at the Effect; but at last finding, that Time did rather improve, than diminish it, I took the confidence to conjure him by what he had so lately heard, to banish his despair, that his Love could not be more impro­bable o [...] success than Perolla's had been, and that I was confident the gods had shew'd him so miraculous an example, to raise and fortifie his Faith. No, no, Symander, (said my Prince) the gods are resolved never to let me see the joyes of fruition, but in others, they will give me the power to create all mens felicities but my own; and to speak truth, they have so far ruined me, that it is as little in their Power now, as Wills to restore me; [Page 242] for Parthenissa is fallen into a Crime which admits no cure, and her loving me again, would but render her more unworthy of my love, for she can­not now be kind, but by a new vice: Had the cruel gods been pleas'd to have raised me but as great Crosses as Perolla's, I might have strugled with, and perhaps overcome them as well as he, and should never have repined at my Afflictions, could I have propounded a possibility of ending them; but at the same instant that they made me wretched, they made me uncapable of being otherwise, and gave me no hopes in my torments, but that their greatness would prove their [...]ure; whereas when they made Blacius hate Perolla, they made Izadora have a Passion for him; when they brought him to be executed, he received his life from Izadora's love; the cause of his preservation, being more pleasing than the preservation: and when they made Ha [...]ibal his Enemy, they made Izadora's constancy his Friend, and gave it power to triumph over all obstacles; so that all his miseries were but demonstrations, and endearings of his happiness, he had never impossibi­lities to wrestle against: For if the Carthaginian, and Blacius, were de­stroyed or converted, he had alwayes Izadora's Heart, and Arms, ready to receive him; so that his obstructions (unlike mine) were in the way, and not in the end. 'Twas with a thousand such Reasons as these, that he an­swer'd mine; and indeed they were uttered with such violence, that find­ing my arguing would rather inflame, than lessen his grief, I determined to choose a [...]itter season for my design. The night which succeeded this day, as soon as the Army was Campt, and the Guards plac'd, Spartacus (who long'd to be in his designed solitude) sent for all his chief Officers, and spoke to them to this effect.

Since (my generous Companions) we took up Arms only for our safe­ties, and to repair our wrongs; and since the gods have contributed to­wards, and perfected our designs, it is high time to think of laying them down: But before we put this resolution in practice, let us face Rome, and shew her by so bold an Action, that what we intend to perform, is our ele­ction, not our necessity; from thence, if their fears will not give us new occasions of glory, let us march directly to the Alpes, which having crost, every man may return into his own Countrey, and I make no doubt, but passing thus through the heart of Italy, I shall load you with as much wealth, as glory. I must acknowledge (said Symander) that he extended himself eloquently, and largely upon this subject; but because I have so long dwelt on Izadora's Story, I am resolv'd to repair that fault, by cutting off all things that are not absolutely essential in my Princes. This motion found its wisht effect, for his Army were as desirous to secure what they had got­ten, as my Prince was to be a Hermit; and truly he so doted on recluse­ness, and upon any thing which nourisht his melancholy, that he would have prefer'd a Cell, before a Throne, and often told me, that since the gods would not afford him a Crown of Myrtles, he would never wear one of Lawrel.

In brief, the Senate having advice that we took the direct way towards Rome, sent Gellius and Lentulus (both their Consuls) to meet us, as to the most dangerous War they could employ them in; and the whole peo­ple of Rome, by a thousand Sacrifices, and publick Humiliations, acknow­ledg'd a fear, the justice of which, was soon made evident by an entire loss of their Armies, which in a pitch'd Field we absolutely defeated; but this Victory was bought, rather than won by Spartacus: For he purchas'd it by the loss of all the Germans in his Army, who, in a bravery, having quitted [Page 243] that Post my Prince had assign'd them, found their destruction in their dis­obedience, and their punishment in their fault: Canitius, who command ed them, came covered with wounds, and vowed to Spartacus, that thouigh he had been a sharer in their Sufferings, he was not in their Crime; whcch Protestation my generous Master accepted; as his excuse. But this suc [...]ess hinder'd us from viewing Rome, though we might have done it in a ar nobler posture than at the first time, being now more loaden with success, than we had been with chains. But my Prince, who design'd to face those stately walls only, because 'twas dangerous, now declin'd it, because 'twas safe; and thought what he intended for a Gallantry, would look (after the Consuls defeat) like an insulting; we therefore left Rome on our left hand, and march'd without any opposition, into that Gaule which extends its self along the famous River Poe, so celebrated by the Roman Poets, un­der the name of Eridanus. Cassius the Pretor, and Governor there, thought with a select Army of 10000 Men, and by the advantages, and straights of the Countrey, to interrupt our passage, but he found by the loss of his Army, that Resolution, and Conduct, can overcome all obstacles; he had not the misfortune only to outlive his loss, but to carry the news of it him­self to the Senate, who were so highly troubled at these successive dis­asters, that immediately as a punishment of the Consuls faults, or misfor­tunes, they recalled them, and gave the ordering of the War to Marcus Crassius, (one of those that compos'd the first and greatest Triumvirate) and raised so vast an Army for him, that the same of it coming to my Princes knowledge, it kindled that fire of glory in him, which had been so long cover'd, and made him lead back his victorious Troops towards this new General, lest if ever he were discover'd, the world might think his abandoning Italy, proceeded from the noise of those Forces, and not from a premeditated intent. Crassus, attended by all the Gallantry of the Roman Empire, joyfully understood that Spartacus was saving him the trouble of a march, and the less to harrass his Army, expected my Princes approach in the fertile Plains of Romania.

To be short, the night before the design'd Battel, Crassus sent Memmius (his Lieutenant General) with two select Legions, to lie in Ambush on the Left Flank of our Army, and strictly commanded him, That upon no pro­vocation, he should discover himself, till both Bodies were joined, But my Prince, who is the vigilantest Captain living, and of whom no advantage is to be gotten, but what is given by Fate, sent two Soldiers in the habits of Italian women, to a height which was unsecure for our Scouts, and which look'd into the Roman Camp, where under a pretence of Sacrificing for the safety of their Army, they became the Intelligencers of ours, and soon ad­vertiz'd Spartacus of this stratagem; but before he could engage them, they had recover'd a fastness, where 'twas impossible to make use of force, but yet next morning before the Battel was ready to begin, he gave Mum­mius so seeming an advantage, that thereby he himself gain'd a real one, and by so sad an Argument as the cutting in pieces of 8000 Romans, made both the Lieutenant, and his General, of an opinion that he was invinci­ble. Those that fled, were again receiv'd by Crassus, and having cast away their Arms to save their Lives, he furnisht them with new ones, but first made them give security, that they should keep them better than they had the former, and then reviv'd that strict Discipline of Decimation, where every tenth Run-away was executed in the sight of the whole Army; so that 500 ran to receive from their Friends that Death with shame, which [Page 244] with less pain, and with Honour, they might have had from their Enemies. But for Mummius, his rebuke was so just and sharp, that he withdrew him­self from the Camp, and by a lingering Death justifi'd, that whosoever in War undertakes an Attempt without Order, must either make Victory his Apology, or render himself uncapable of making any other. This Break­fast hinder'd the Feast, for Crassus perceiving a pannick terror in all his Sol­diers, would not expose those to our Swords, whose fears had already half conquer'd them, but was so much more a Friend to his Countrey, than his Ambition, that he advis'd the Senate to send for Pompey back, and rather endeavor to preserve, than increase their Empire. Three dayes successive­ly, my generous Prince presented the Romans Battel, and the fourth day, as he was going to take up his late design of marching over the Alpes, and af­terwards of confining himself eternally, in their greatest horrors he recei­ved a solemn Embassy from those Sicilians which had cast off the Roman yoke, wherein they protested, That his Fame, and not their Necessity, made them choose him their Prince; That though the latter was pressing, yet the former was the only motive of their Election; That he could not employ his Arms more gloriously, nor more charitably, than for their de­fence; That the only hope that his Courage would protect them, inflam'd theirs: But if they were supprest before he came, they would sell their ruine so dearly, that he should not be asham'd to acknowledge them his; and that they would all take up that consolation at their Deaths, that they dy'd Subjects to the great Spartac [...]s.

The Sicilian Deputies accompany'd their Oration with so many tears, that my generous Master, though he declin'd the Title of their Prince, yet he did not that of their Friend; and having compos'd a considerable Body of Men, as well for their Numbers, as their Resolutions, he Convoy'd them with all his Army to the Fare of Messina, and from thence sent them over into Sicily, where they renew'd the War with such success, as at length that fertile Island was upon the point of changing their old Lords. The daily intelligence of our Companions Victories, and of the wealth which atten­ded them, so fixt all our Army upon participating of both, that they una­nimously beg'd Spartacus to finish their labours, by setling them in so deli­cious a Countrey, who willingly yielded to their requests, perceiving that Crassus absolutely declin'd a Battel, and that now he might with Honour profecute his old design, having no Enemies that durst oppose him, and ha­ving given his Soldiers for their Reward one of the pleasantest Kingdoms in the world.

Consider, I beseech you, how deep a root his Melancholy had, when Tri­umphs, nor the empire of Rome (which he might almost as easily have possest, as desir'd) could neither tear it up, or so much as shake it; and truly, to the best of my observation, I never perceiv'd him pleas'd but in dangers, and never so much troubled, as when he had avoided them; which I attributed to the height of his grief, whose torment was so great a bur­den, that he would even have joy'd if Death itself had eas'd him of it. But to effect this determination, understanding that Menas rid with a good Fleet in that small Channel which separates Italy from Sicily, he employ'd an Express to him, who by large promises and gifts, receiv'd an assurance from him, That if my Prince would march with his Army into a Pen-insule of the Reggians, where there was good quarters for his Army, and a good Road for his Fleet, he would not fail within ten days, there to receive and obey his commands. Immediately the Messenger return'd with this dis­patch, [Page 245] and soon after Spartacus mov'd with his Army to the place assign'd, where, after twice ten dayes expectation, instead of discovering a Fleet, we only perceiv'd a single Gally, which having cast Anchor, Man'd a small Skiff, and sent a Gentleman on shore, attended only by two Slaves, who in­forming the Guards that he desired to speak with Spartacus, was immedi­ately conducted to his Tent, where he soon found it was that Gallipus who had made Pompey so just a character of him, that it had like to have pro­cured his liberty. My Prince remembring it, used him with exceeding ci­vility, and the first compliments being past, Galippus thus spake to him; Sir, I am employ'd by Menas to acquaint you, that as he was weighing Anchor for this Island, we perceiv'd a Sail to the Windward of us, and having im­mediately sent a swift Brigantine to bring us an account of her, they both came to the Fleet, where Domitius, one of Pompey's greatest Favourites, presented my Admiral with a Letter from the General, (all written with his own hand) which was to conjure him, as ever he valu'd his friendship, that laying all other designs apart, he would immediately come to him with his Navy to Dyrrhachium, where then he was, and where he would expect him, being newly return'd from the Asian War, and from the defeat of Mithridates. This Letter (continu'd Gallippus) was accompany'd with such earnest and reiterated desires, from the valiant Domitius, that at last Menas, who fancy'd the business could not be but of exceeding conse­quence, since Pompey thought fit to make him the Messenger, and not being above 18 hours Sail, and the Wind suddenly veering about to the South­west, which was as opposite for our Sailing this way as fair for Greece, yiel­ded to his request, and in two nights and a day, having crost the Adriatick Gulph which separates that Countrey from Italy, cast Anchor at Dyrrachi­um, where my Admiral and I waited upon the great Pompey, who first shew'd us Letters from the Senate, (occasion'd by the apprehensions Cras­sus had of your Army) which recall'd him out of A [...]ia, to finish the Bond­mens War, (for that was (said Symander) the appellation the Romans gave it:) Then Pompey further told him, That being inform'd by a ship which accidentally came from Messina, that Spartacus had contracted with him to transport him into Sicily, he had sent for him purposely to hinder it, and to desire him, as he valu'd the title of being esteem'd a friend to Rome, not to transport those Slaves from the Romans revenge, and his glory, but as Italy had been the Scene of their Rebellion, so to let it be of their Ru­ine. Pompey join'd with those words so many other pressing motives, and persuasions, that Menas desir'd that nights respite to form his resolution, which was readily yielded unto. I confess Sir, (said Gallippus) that the fear I had of my Admirals yielding, (for whosoever considers whether he shall do ill, has already done it) made me take the confidence (after we were retir'd) to tell him, That he ought to prefer the being a Friend to Virtue, above the being one to the People of Rome; That the way he took, made him unworthy of the end; and that to deserve that title with­out possessing it, was nobler than to possess it without deserving it. I know ( Menas hastily reply'd) all thou say'st is true, but canst thou wonder Gal­lippus that a Genius which has triumph'd over Europe, A [...]rick, and Asia, should now vanquish Menas? No, no, all things yielding to that great man, makes it no shame for me to imitate them. In a word, seeing I could not make him continue your Friend, I made him vow he would not be your Enemy. The next morning Pompey having repeated his charms, obtain'd from my Admiral an assurance not to serve you, on condition not to be employed [Page 246] against you; there were some of the Roman Colonels which mov'd that Menas should take you aboard, and then carry you to Dyrrachium, but that, both he and Pompey detested, the last alledging he would not cheat himself of a Victory. This being thus determin'd, my Admiral thought fit to employ me to acquaint you with what had past, to beg your excuse, to return your Presents, and to protest, that nothing but the great Pompey could have made him violate his engagement. Gallippus thus finish'd his Discourse, at which my Prince was extremely troubled, as indeed he was at all things that retarded his retirement; but least his melancholy might be misinterpreted, he made haste to return him this Answer: If your Ad­miral had been principled like you, he would never have undertaken to serve me, or having engaged himself, would have perform'd it; but tell him from me, I am very much my own Flatterer, if what he has done to make the Romans his Friends, will not produce a contrary effect: For by necessitating me to stay in Italy, he will too necessitate me to conquer it; and that having hitherto had no designs but of Revenge, he will now in­spire me with those of Ambition, and force me against my will to be victo­rious: But (my Prince continu'd) because you have so generously op­pos'd your Captains breach of promise, I give your Virtue that Reward I should have given his services; and thereupon presented him all those gifts that Menas had return'd, which Gallippus made some scruple to accept, but at last took: And then in acknowledgment of my Princes generosity, of­fer'd him to sail into Sicily, and there to hire as many ships for his service, as would transport his Army thither; which Spartacus absolutely declin'd, al­ledging, that he would not have his Gratitude hazard his Ruine; and that since Pompey was coming into Italy, he had now left the design of aban­doning it, being 'twas only taken up because he could see no enemies there, but those which were his Prisoners. Gallippus admir'd at his gallan­try, and having made him a million of engagements to sacrifice his life and fortune, when the Honour of his service should afford him an occasion, took his leave, and return'd towards his [...]ally: But the report of his mes­sage to my Prince being diffus'd over the Camp, fill'd some of the common Soldiers with such a blind rage, that not being able to discharge their fury on Menas, for the violation of his promise, and for leaving of them (as they falsely said) a Prey to Pompey's victorious Troops, they determined to punish the innocent for the guilty, and make Gallippus pay for his Cap­tains crime, who not suspecting any treachery of that nature, was setting foot in his skiff, attended only by his two Slaves, when a croud of those in­solent men fell upon him; at first he endeavor'd to appease them with an information of their error, but perceiving they were deaf to all reason, he retir'd into the Sea to his middle, that none might come behind him, and there with his Sword resolved to sell his life. One of his Slaves, in imita­tion of him, got an Oar, and being join'd to his Captain, twice preserved his life, and gave so large a proof of a singular Courage, that my Prince (upon hearing of this Barbarism, being run thither) admir'd it, and judg'd that his condition was not answerable to his cloaths; but though Sparta­cus's presence and threatnings qualifi'd, yet it did not extinguish the Tu­mult; which he no sooner observ'd, than with his Sword, having killed three of the most violent, he ended the disorder, by causing five others to be executed upon the place. All things thus appeased, and Gallippus come out of his Fortification, my dear Master beg'd a thousand Pardons of him, that his Soldiers had so far violated the Law of Nations; and that if he [Page 247] esteem'd the punishment already inflicted not sufficient for their Crime, he permitted him to be his own Judge. Gallippus assured him, that he had rather been too severe, than too partial; and having by many Compli­ments repaid his civility, my Prince desir'd to see that Slave, whose Fideli­ty, and Valor, deserv'd so plentiful a character. Gallippus instantly called him, and spite of his habit and some blood which endeavor'd to disfigure him, Spartacus observ'd that his shape, and meen, were answerable to his Courage; and after a little reflection on the inequality of Fate, in be­stowing him such ornaments i [...] his extraction were like his habit, or if the contrary, in giving such bles [...]ings so disproportionate a Fortune, he very intentively observ'd the Slave, and found that the Slave was not less fixt in looking upon him. This made him remember he had once seen some fea­tures not unresembling his, and as he was calling to mind where it had been, he heard himfetch a deep sigh, and say to himself, Oh gods! what is it that I see? am I deluded? or have I already found what I seek? These few words (which were loud enough for Spartacus to hear) put him in­to strange disorders, sometimes he cast his eyes upon him that spoke them, sometimes upon the ground, now trembling and looking pale, and then in­stantly blushing: The poor slave did not only observe those alterations, but imitated them, which wholly converted my Princes suspitions into a cer­tainty; but the better to confirm himself, he drew him aside, and having whisper'd something in his ear, they both, to our great admiration, embra­ced one another with admirable Transports; I was present whilst all this was acting, and was so ravisht with the strangeness and intricacy of the Adventure, that before I could go to discover what it meant, I perceived them both returning to Gallippus, to whom my Prince said, He that was once your Slave, ( Gallippus) now begs one of you, but does not intend so much to wrong your Valo [...]s wages, as to expect him as gift: the height of my desires is, that you will let me have him at any ransom; and if those Treasures I possess be not of sufficient value, I will lose my Army and my self, but I will present you too all those in the Capitol. Gallippus, who relisht nothing of his profession, and who thought to excuse himself to Menas, in giving the Slave his liberty, for the service he had that day renderd him, reply'd, Generous Spartacus, you have paid his ransom in desiring his liber­ty, which from this instant I give him; and all I expect in exchange is, that you will believe I have been less beholding to him in twice saving my life, than in furnishing me with the happiness of obliging you. At this noble Answer, my dear Master ran with open arms to embrace him that made it, and then sent me for his Cabinet, from whence he took out many Jewels of an immense value, and by plain force made him accept them. Then Gallippus having acknowledg'd my Princes liberality in words as ample as the cause of them, and embraced a thousand times his enfranchis'd Slave, took of both, his last farewell, and went from them with as high a satisfa­ction as he had left them in. Gallippus being gone, Spartacus return'd to his Tent, leading his Slave with him, in so high raptures of joy, that both his looks and actions testifi'd them. They were no sooner come thither, than he desir'd all that accompany'd him (but I) to give him an hour or two's privacy, and then he fell again to repeat his Transports with so much earnestness, that I believ'd in those very embracings he had lost the thought of ever doing the like to Parthenissa; but at last perceiving my astonishment was the effect of my ignorance, he was so charitable as to tell me, what! Symander, do you not know the Prince Sillaces? At those words [Page 248] my Eyes were unseal'd, and I admir'd as much all that while, I knew him not, as then I was happy in doing it. I will pass by telling you how I flung my self at his feet, how I embrac'd his knees, and how I wash'd them with my tears, since all my Extravaganices were interrupted by Spartacus's who lov'd so passionately his Friend, that he could not be at quiet, till he had ask'd him what strange Adventure had reduc'd him to the sad condition he found him in. I know not (said Sillaces) if it be a strange, but I am cer­tain 'tis an advantageous one; for when I least expected to find my liberty, and my desires, I have lighted upon both; 'tis you (my dear Artabbanes) that I seek, and 'tis only in that employment I have suffer'd miseries, which nothing could render tolerable, but the reflecting upon him for whose sake I endur'd them. the gods forbid (my Prince reply d) that I should be the cause of your sufferings, they are not sure so cruel as to render my misfortunes infectious; and to make those that share in my friendship, to participate in my miseries. You have none ( Sillaces answer'd) unless you contracted them since you left Parthenissa. certainly (said my Prince exceedingly astonish'd) when you speak thus, you look upon my resolu­tion, and not my condition; for there has nothing happen'd since I aban­doned that fatal Countrey, which could afford me any ease of my tor­ments, but what I found in my courage and resentments. Alas! (reply'd Sillaces) are you still in that darkness which your jealousie cast you into? must you believe Parthenissa criminal, till you appear so your self? and must I shew you your fault, to shew you your happiness? Yes, yes, (he con­tinu'd) I see your suspitions will vanish no other way, prepare your self then to hear a Story, which these two years I have sought you out to tell you, and believe it with that faith you would an Oracle, for nothing it de­livers is more certain. That which Sillaces tells me, (said my Prince) I alwayes credit at that rate. You had best (he reply'd) not decline that practice now, for what I must acquaint you with, will as much need your faith, as the cure of your Affilictions will stand in need of it. Spartacus, at these last words, had too great an impatience to delay the satisfying it by any Reply; which Sillaces perceiving, began this ensuing Relation.

PARTHENISSA.
THE THIRD PART.
BOOK I.

THE News which the Priest of Venus brought to his Superior, and Symander, was very true; for whilest the last was acquainting the first with his generous Princes Adventures, he himself (as has been related) was retir'd into a solitude which that morning he had discover'd, where (by Fortunes giving him some ease, the better to enable him to support her longer cruelties) he was fallen into a slumber; and though his cares were so unusually civil, as not to interrupt it, yet it was suddenly, by a noise of Horses, and clashing of Swords, and Arms, which reach'd his ear, which invited him to take his Horse, and gallop to the place from whence this Alarm came, to learn the subject of it; the continuance of the noise, and the swiftness of his Horse, faithfully and suddenly b [...]ought him to see a Combat which struck him both with admiration and anger; the first was caus'd by a single Valor, which could not be but transcendent, since it had such an Admirer; and the last was occasion'd by six armed men, which endeavor'd to destroy the possessor of it; who, to sell his life at a rate worthy so high a purchase, and to make his Enemies deplore the de­struction of so great a Courage, or the effects of it, had already kill'd two of them, with blows that struck as great a terror into the rest, as the very example of those deaths; but finding at last that his Courage might be worsted by, though not yield to his Enemies numbers, he was retir'd to a little Thicket that shelter'd him behind, and his Horse being kill'd in the retreat, defended his right side, doing him service even after death: 'twas in this little fortification and posture, Artabanes found him, and there be­ing no greater invitation to his generous mind for the relieving of virtue, than to find it in distress, he instantly took up one of the dead mens Hel­mets, to join himself to the opprest stranger, who (as he was coming full speed towards him) thinking the now wearer of the Helmet, as much his Enemy, as he that had so lately worn it, cry'd out to Artabanes, Make haste, make haste, and help those, whose hearts are as ill as their cause; and who need relie on their number, since they cannot on their quarrel. Our Hero esteem'd it more handsom and necessary, to shew the generous Stran­ger his error by his actions, than words, and at his first strokes so abun­dantly did it, that he which he reliev'd, thought his mistake a greater mis­fortune, than that which he had now more than hopes to be freed from; and indeed Artabanes perform'd things so far above his strength, though not himself, that three of the surviving four, left the Stranger, to employ [Page 278] their Swords against an Enemy, who they concluded would render the odds as needful, as it was dispoportionate; but the valiant Stranger finding he had to deal but with one, and that his relief might endanger the Bestower of it, suddenly abandon'd his intrenchment, and as suddenly made his Ad­versary abandon his life; but his Horse he made use of to assist his unknown Friends, who was already in a condition not to need it, for he had killed one of the three; and the other two perceiving how powerful an additi­on was coming, endeavor'd in their Horses feet, to find a security they de­spaired of from their own hands: Artabanes and the Stranger followed them awhile, but finding more difficulty in the Chace, than the Quarry merited; and that the way they had taken to avoid their resentments, rendered them unworthy of them, they gave over the pursuit; and then the Stranger having with as much grace, as civility, beg'd a Pardon from Artabanes, for a mistake created by the Arms he had on told him, Though my life is rather a misfortune, than the contrary, yet my obligation to my Deliverer is nothing inferior; and what my miseries made me desirous to lose, (though not in so unhandsom a way) my gratitude now obliges me to preserve, since I esteem the giver of my lite, has too great a share, and title in it, to dispole of it without him. A [...]tabanes extremely satisfied with so obligaing a civility, told the maker of it, I have (generous Stranger) as little title to your life, as to your relief; and if by drawing my Sword in your quarrel, I have done any thing, it deserves rather your resentment, than your thanks, since I have contributed but to a Victory that was cer­tain without my assistance, and under a pretence of serving you, [...]ob'd you in part of a glory, which your courage only had won. Were not your performance (the Stranger reply'd) of a quality that manifests you in­jure your actions when you decline their merit, I might as easily evince that Truth, as acknowledge it; and if you refuse that Present I offer you, (as having receiv'd it from you) I shall esteem your declining it, as high a mis­fortune, as any that has made me esteem my life so. If (said Artabanes) there be any obligation in what I have done, it wholly reflects upon me, that have more obliged my self than you, in serving so prodigal a gratitude; but (he continu'd) perceiving some blood dropping from the Stangers wounds, as well as from his own, let us not lose the benefits of your safety, by disputing who you deriv'd it from; and though I am a Stranger in these Parts as well as you, and as much your Equal in misery, as you are my Su­perior in those virtues, of which, that ought not to be the reward; yet I can offer you a retirement, till your health, or business, invites you to pro­secute your journey. I am (reply'd the Stranger) so miserable a crea­ture, that nothing can increase my being so, but the belief that you are a more; and though I accept of your civility till my wounds be healed, yet I must beg your pardon if I first learn from whom I receiv'd them. Are you (said Artabanes) yet ignorant of that? Yes, (said the Stranger) and cannot fancy, any that knows me, and are my Enemies, can be so much mistaken in their revenge, as to think killing me, is any. 'Twas such dis­courses as these, that brought them where the marks of their Courages and Victory lay, where the Stranger pulling off all the Murtherers Hel­mets, to learn if he knew any of them, found himself as ignorant in their faces, as in the cause of their malice; yet one of them, by the benefit of the Air, and by the turning of his Body, faintly open'd his eyes, and being ask'd of the Stranger, who 'twas that had invited them to so unfortunate, and unjust an attempt, was only answer'd by half words, and signs, 'twas the Prince of Parthia; and then he clos'd both them and his lips for ever. [Page 279] Whil'st the Stranger was thus employ'd about this dying man, Artabanes was about his companions, whose souls were so long fled from their guilty bodies, that all his pains and art could not recall them; this made him re­turn to the unknown Gentleman, who he found (by that little intelligence he had gotten) almost as moveless, as he that had given it him; but Arta­banes's presence drew him from his amazement, and after he had fruitlesly endeavor'd to make a dead man speak, he beg'd our Hero's pardon for his necessary incivility, which had so long suspended his waiting on him to that retirement, which he was now ready to do. Artabanes obey'd this invita­tion, but observing that he which made it, was more melancholy than he had been, he desir'd to know whether he had newly learn'd any thing that caus'd it. Alas Sir (said the Stranger) I am inform'd who has attempted against my life, and am involv'd, by that knowledge, in a higher confusion than I was in, by my ignorance, Artabanes perceiving by what he had said, that he was not willing to explain himself, alter'd the subject of his dis­course which he entertain'd him with, till they came to the Temple (the place as the Stranger said of his intended journey) where our Hero brought him to his own Lodgings, and where they had no sooner pull'd off their Helmets, than having awhile gaz'd at each other with a mutual and high ad­miration, they suddenly after ran to embrace with as much joy and satisfa­ction. One of the goddesses Priests was present at this Adventure, who carry'd his Superior the news of it; and though at his departure, the two friends were in one anothers arms, yet he, Callimachus, and Symander, found them still in the same posture; and because the celebration of their joyes, hinder'd them from taking notice of this company, the last of it, being un­willing to interrupt a contentment, which he knew was as just as great, took the leisure to acquaint Callimachus, that the Gentleman his Prince em­brac'd, was the generous Artavasdes, the beginning of whose Story he had learn'd from Artabanes, and the service he had render'd him, was the subject of their last discourse. Callimachus was highly satisfi'd to have at once in his house, more virtue than the world had besides; but whil'st he was in the contemplation of that blessing, the Chyrurgions which he had sent for, coming in, interrupted it, and Artabanes, and Artavasdes, perceiving how rude their joy had been, repair'd it by a thousand excuses; but Cal­lima [...]hus, more intent on their healths, than their civilities, broke them off, to employ the Chyrurgions, who having search'd both their wounds, found them somewhat inflam'd; and that they might prove dangerous, unless by quietness and silence, they would contribute to their recovery; and though Callimachus had prepar'd a magnificent Apartment for Artavasdes, yet nei­ther that, nor the Chyrurgions Prayer could invite them to a separation; nay, 'twas with much difficulty that they extorted a promise from the Princes, not to speak to one another in Four and twenty hours, which they both profest was more troublesom to them than those wounds, to which their silence was to be a contributory cure. Symander, who knew his Prince was as much concern'd in Artavasdes, as in himself, proportion'd his care accordingly, and the Holy Priest by his transcendent diligence, manifested he knew the merit of his Guests; but the first time for their silence being expir'd, the Physitians enjoin'd a second of the same continuance, which our Hero's would not have submitted unto, but upon a faithful promise af­ter that was efflux'd, they should, and might without danger, entertain one another. Callimachus was as impatient at this new imposition, as they were, on who it was impos'd; and though his curiosity was great, yet his civility was greater, which hinder'd him from desiring Symander to Con­tinue [Page 280] his Naration, or from begging his Prince to command it him. But the so much impatiented however was no sooner come, than Artavasdes remov'd his Bed, so near to that of Artabanes, that they might discourse as commodiously, as if they both had lay'n in one. There the generous Ar­menian began to exclaim against his fortune, for having render'd his mise­rise contagious, and for having made the means of his deliverance, a great­er misfortune, than the want of it could have prov'd. But Artabanes took him up so short, and so civilly, for thinking those wounds a misfortune, which had secur'd his friend, that Artavasdes, by being fore'd to beleieve them none, found them a greater. Callimachus came in as the two Princes were in those discourses, and finding them so employ'd, offer'd again to re­tire; but Artabanes had given his friend so true a character of him, that they jointly assured him, his company could never prove an injury, but in his depriving them of it: This (with their entreaties) stay'd him, and he being too much concern'd in both their Lives, not to be ambitious to learn the Accidents which compos'd them, cast out some oblique words that ma­nifested his curiosity, which infinitely reviv'd Artabanes's who remem­bring some fad expressions his friends had us'd in their late meeting, and be­ing impatient to learn the whole, of what he knew but in part, beg'd him to satisfie both Callimachus's, and his Prayers. Sir, (said the virtuous Priest) since you have made my curiosity your request, I will let you know, that Symander's Story being interrupted by the generous Artavas­des's arrival, he cannot better repair that injury, than in telling his own; and to induce him the rather to it, I can truly assure him, I had learn'd a part of it before now, had not he himself hinder'd it; for we were already so far ad­vanc'd, as to your strange encounter at the Battel of the Trenches, and to your coming to Rome. Artabanes was somewhat troubled, that to satisfie Callimachus, he must be necessitated to remain awhile ignorant of a fresh intelligence, to listen unto one he knew, yet he was so perfectly interressed in all his friends Actions, and in the respect due to so signal a person, that he besought Artavasdes to begin his Adventures, from their separation in Par­thia, [...]ince till then Callimachus had learn'd them from his mouth. Artavas­des having first ty'd the generous Parthian to repay his Story, by acquaint­ing him afterwards with his own, began his obedience to his friends com­mands, in these terms:

PARTHENISSA.
THE THIRD PART.
BOOK II.

IEndeavour'd to tell you (said Artavasdes) in Epito­my, the effects of Falintus's intelligence, because I thought the remembrance of those miseries, would have deny'd me the possibility of their full relation; but now I find, that those gods which gave me the fortitude to bear my affictions, will give me too, that of repeating them. I will deduce the Story from its Original, not only because I esteem the strange changes, and intricacies, it is replenish'd with, worthy your attention, but that by the knowledge of my sufferings, I may be oblig'd to your reason as much as goodness, to pardon those esseminacies, which I believe (only, and then absolutely) excusable, when you learn their cause. You may re­member, I told you that I met the generous Falintus at his Landing, as Ventidius and I was diverting our selves upon a pleasant Strand, not far from his Palace; where Falintus desir'd me to retire, since his intelligence was of a length, which by continuing where I was, might impair a health he found by my looks was but newly restor'd; I obey'd this request, and we were no sooner return'd, than locking our selves up in my Cabinet, Falintus addressing his discourse to me, began it in these words.

As soon as you were so far from Armenia, as Crassolis was confident you could not receive intelligence time enough to repent his practices; the first he disclos'd, was, the annihilating the gallant Phanasder's Commission, and the conferring it on a Creature of his own, both which he effected by the unlimited power he has over his King, and though Altezeera and Oro­des too, were unsatisfy'd with it, yet the latter had been more to have declin'd his Favourites Council; but no sooner was Phanasder retir'd to his Government, than Pacorus, with all the Gallantry of Parthia (which by Pompey's precipitate return to Rome, was safely united in one Body) presented himself on the Banks of Euphrates, absolutely determind'd to re­peat, or repair his disgrace; some were of opinion, that Phanasders dis­placing, gave him the invitation to invade us; others thought he began the War upon intelligence of Annexander's Treaty at Rome, with hopes to determine it before Crassus could come either to divert him, or assist us; whether the causes were great I know not, but I am sure the success was, for the Armenian Army, consisting of those who sought for Pay, and not for Glory (all of the latter quality, having flung up their Commission with [Page 311] Phanasder) and the General being one, whose suddain elevation had asto­nish'd him, the Armenians in the first Battel, were render'd uncapable of a second, for they left above 40000 on the place, but that which diminish'd the loss, was the addition of one unto it, their General. This Victory be­ing too infamous to be insisted on, I will pass it over, to tell you the effects it produc'd: one of the first, was the invironing of Tygranocerta (near which it was won) next morning with an Army of 30000 Horse; where the King (with the Princess in his company) had remov'd, the better to act upon any emergency; But Artabazus found himself no sooner besieg'd, than he repented (but would not repair) his injury to Phanasder's Autho­rity, and to yours, which was violated in his. As soon as the news was divulg'd in Parthia, that Artabazus was besieg'd, with as little hope of relief as resistance; Arsaces came in person to Tygranocerta, where he so­lemnly protested, he would be reveng'd for the Bloud of his Subjects at Offala, and for Artabazus's having hir'd the Romans to his destruction. The gallant Phanasder, at the intelligence of the Kings misfortune, for­gets his injury to remember his duty: neither were the tyes of Friend­ship and Love, less invitations, to his performances, the first of those were on your score to the Princess Altezeera, and the latter on his own, to the Princess Theoxcena, to whom Tygranocerta not only belong'd, but was then the place of her residence; and who indeed was blest with such charms, both of the Body and Mind, that Phanasder was as unable as un­willing to resist them. But why do I so much abuse the fair Theoxcena, and my self, as to endeavour to give you a description of a person, that is above any? and who, if I be not much mistaken, you did assiduously vi­sit in your Friends favour, a little before you left Armenia. I must confess, (I reply d) that as [...]oon as Phanasder had acquainted me with his Passion, I acquainted Theoxcena with it, and with the merit of her Servants; of which she was so absolutely convinc'd, that upon that score, she not only pardon'd, but receiv'd his Flame, and being at his own disposal, she thought no argument could more evince how much she merited that liberty, than to give her self to Phanasder, without those nice formalities, authoriz'd rather from Custom than Reason; and besides, she esteem'd it both an in­jury to her own election, and her Servants Virtues, only to be satisfy'd of their greatness, by time. This generous declaration, my concern in my Friend, and his impatience, made me the more sollicitous before my de­parture, to bring this affair to a conclusion, which might be uncapable of change. I believe (said Falintus) you have so well effected that design, that if all her Sex were as constant as Theoxcena, I had been exempted from an employment, which I detest, though in it you may find, I will de­cline nothing for your Service, since I do it not, when 'tis to your trou­ble: But whilst Phanasder was levying of Forces to hinder, or at least pro­tract the loss of Tygranocerta, he receiv'd an advertisement from thence, that his Kings Fear or Weakness, had made him already offer to capitu­late with Arsaces, upon tearms so low, that an absolute ruine had been a fitter election, who yet return'd him word, That he fought not for Glo­ry, but Revenge and Empire, and therefore the destruction, and not the submission of his Enemies, should be the evincement of his success; This answer made Phanasder conclude, that either Arsaces's cruelty, or advan­tage was great, and to hinder both, (finding that to raise an Army, would be a work of time, and consequently of danger,) with 3000 select Horse, he advanc'd towards Tygranocerta, and at noon-day passing over the Bellies of as many Parthians, with the loss of 300, enter'd the Town, and so much [Page 312] reviv'd the Besieged's hopes, and the Kings goodness, that the former cast away their fears, and the latter his ingratitude, There Theoxcena's recep­tion of her Servant, was more full of satisfaction to him, than the Tri­umph; but that all our enemies might know, as well as hear of the re­lief; Phanasder and I, (for I had the honor to be with him, and to com­pose a third part of his Forces) made such brisk and successful Sallies, that though the number of the Fighters hindred them from the name of Battels, yet the number of the Dead would have made them thought so; which so transported Arsaces, that he solemnly protested, Tyranocerta should be either his Tomb, or Artabazus's, and it may be we had made him keep the first part of his Vow, had not the Divine Sword destroy'd more Lives, than the Parthian; for not long after our flinging our selves into Tygra­nocerta, there fell into it from Heaven (if such a Curse can come from thence) a Mortality of so strange nature, that nothing hardly could prove a preservative for the Sound, or a cure for the Infected; so that to be Sick, and to be Dead, were the same; This strange contagion so suddainly de­vour'd our Forces, that Phanasder himself consented to capitulate, but our Enemies knew too well our conditions, to grant us any; so that many began to think that Plague no misfortune. But Phanasder to make Arsaces believe, both his intelligence, and his hopes were false, placing the Wo­men on the Walls, with all the Men, and Gallantry of the Garrison, he made so furious a Sally, that above 4000 Parthians were sent into the other World, to lament their Kings being inexorable in this: and doubt­less we had carry'd our success, to the heighth of making him as much need our humanity, as we did his, had not the Prince Pacorus (passing with all his Army over a Bridge of Boats on the River Nicephorus, which separated the City and the two Camps) come, not only to his Fathers r [...]ief, but rescue; for Phanasder had taken Arsaces with his own hand: but as he was retreating with the Father, the Son fell with all his fresh Troops on ours (which were tir'd and shatter'd) and forc'd, not onely the King, but the Victory from us; though Phanasder not to lose his Prison­er, did almost his Life, for he receiv'd some such unhappy wounds, that making the retreat with our Swords, just as he was enter'd the Gates, he totter'd upon his Horse, and had doubtless fall'n, but that I caught him in my Arms, till further help came to carry him to his Bed, whither he was no sooner brought, than my wounds, as dangerous as his, sunk me down into a swound by him. And though his Action was great, yet because his success was not, he fell into so deep a melancholly and despair, that no­thing but Theoxcena's safety (which she protested was involv'd in his,) could induce him to permit the Chirurgeons, to search and dress his wounds. Arsaces on the other side, assum'd a rage as great, as the danger he had late­ly, been in, and by reiterated vows, left himself as little power, as will to be merciful. Pacorus having receiv'd the Elogy due to his Sucess and Gal­lantry, return'd to his own Camp, from whence that day he had not mov'd, but that those which were to give him a false Alarm, did it so unfortunate­ly, that their intention was both discover'd, and punish'd; but though their loss in the Parthian Armies were great; yet their joyes were so too, for they consider'd our last attempt, as if it were to have been so; neither indeed were they false Prophets in that conjecture, for the Soldiers by losing Phanasder, not only lost their Leader, but their Inspirer; and before his wounds permitted him the power of revenging them, or increasing their number, those of the Garrison were so diminish'd, that he could hardly command, or obey any but himself. In this extremity, when we expected a [Page 313] general ruine, we found a general safety. The gods be prais'd, (I cry'd out, interrupting him, (for though I were not present, yet I was a suffer­er in the Danger.) Ah (Sir, said Falintus) you are too prodigal of your Gratitude, for when you are instructed in the cause of our preservation, I fear it will involve you in greater troubles, than we were freed from; but not to anticipate your griefs, I will tell you my Story in order. The same day in which Phanasder purchas'd so much Glory, and so little ad­vantage, amongst many of the Armenians, which then receiv'd their Fate, Crassolis's only Son was pierc'd with so many wounds, that though we made our retreat with so flow a pace, that we might have fetcht off any of our wounded, yet that young Gentleman was so mortally, that none of his Friends, esteem'd him worthy the carrying home, or declin'd the doing it, out of an apprehension of reviving his Fathers affliction, by so sad an object. This unfortunate Youth fell to the share of one of Pacorus's Favou­rites, whose Servants having stripp'd him of his Apparel, found about his Neck, a Box, all sett with Diamonds, which contain'd within it the Picture of a Beauty, more bright than those Stones that cover'd it; This Excel­lence they presented to their Lord, and he esteeming it one, did the like to his Prince, who no sooner saw the Picture, but he became as moveless as it, and continu'd in that extasie till he broke it, to learn who 'twas it re­presented; but therein he found all about him, as ignorant as himself, and suspecting, their silence proceeded from their knowledge, not their igno­rance, he told his Favourite; 'Tis in vain Labienus, 'tis in vain, now to con­ceal who it is has wounded me, for were her extraction as far below my Bloud, as her Beauty is above my adoration: were she an Enemy as well to my Nature, as my Flame; nor these, nor as many obstacles as she has charms shall deterr me from my Passion, whose greatness none can con­demn, without declaring himself as much an enemy to Reason, as to Pa­cerus; do not therefore add so much to the affliction of my Love, as to conceal who has inspir'd it, for though I should never learn who is my Conqueror, yet I must always give her that Name, and cary the effects of her power, though I should never behold the Possessor of it. All that heard these extravagancies, were perfectly ignorant of her name, which created them, but one of those who had shar'd in the rifling of Crassolis's Son, after his Companions were gone, found some weak symptomes of life in him, and either out of Charity or Avarice, endeavour'd to preserve what he thought was not absolutely hopeless; towards which he had caus'd his Prisoner and Patient, to be transported into his Tent, and be­ing by profession a Chirurgion, had so well practis'd his Art, that young Crassolis began to open his Eyes, and at last to recover his Senses; but the first thing he did when they were restor'd, was to search for his Picture, which he no sooner mist, than he began to tear his wounds, to open a pas­sage for a Soul, which detested its dwelling after (and seem'd to sympa­thize in) so sensible a loss. This strange extravagancy, made the only wit­ness of it enquire the cause, which he had no sooner learnt, than he told him, how the richness of the Case, had perhaps, made him lose what it contain'd, but if he would be contented with the Picture, he would en­deavour the restitution. Alas (said the young Crassolis) the Picture is all I desire, and to invite you to restore it, I do faithfully engage my self to give you as many Diamonds as can be pil'd upon it. This large reward made him to whom it was offer'd, flye to his Companion to acquaint him with it, who he found about Pacorus, when he was in the torment of so unhap­py an ignorance, which the Chirurgion perceiving, and deploring, punctu­ally acquainted him with all he knew, which immediately when the Prince [Page 314] had learnt, bidding his Treasurer give him higher rewards, than the prison­er could Master of, he commanded him to conduct him to his dying Ri­val, whither they were no sooner come, than the wounded Gentleman ha­ftily ask'd for the satisfaction of his hopes, but Pacorus permitted not his Guide to reply, and enjoyn'd all which were present to retire, and then presenting himself with much civility to the Picture, begg'd him to tell him if he knew whose it was? oh gods (said the young Crassolis) 'tis mine? and were but my Health as good as my Title, who ever you are, you should lose it, or I would my life. Truly (said Pacorus) I place as high a value on this excellent Copy, as you are capable to do, and would not be depriv'd of it at a lower price, but that you may know I esteem, and do not hate my Rivals (for then I should all Men) I will inform you my name is Pacorus, and that I have both Force and Authority to punish your threatenings, did not I excuse them upon the same account, which I hope you will, my detention of both our Conquerors. Ah Sir (said the prison­er) if you deprive me of my Picture and not of my Life, you are as cru­el in the latter, as in the former, and will be as severe in your Mercy, as in your Injustice; for you must permit me so to call your making that Excel­lence your Prisoner. Alas 'tis I (said Pacorus) that am hers. If you were, (reply'd the other) you would not be her Besieger. Oh gods, said the Prince, somewhat surpriz'd) is she then within Tygranocerta? and have they made me so miserable a creature, as to endeavour to destroy what I should, and do adore? No (continu'd Pacorus, lifting up his Eyes and Hands) I invoke the higher powers to manifest theirs in my confusion, if the fair object of my flame be within those Walls, if ever I shed any bloud near them, but for their defence. Great gods! (the Prisoner cry'd out) could I believe this Profession, how happy were my ruine; and how full of satisfaction my death, if it might contribute to the preservation of a Beauty, whose perfections and cruelty, cannot transcend my Passion? Yes, said the Prince,) falling upon his knees) I do here repeat my former prote­station, and implore the gods to fill this Excellency, as full of Ice, as she has me with Fire, and to make me hated as much as I do love, if I do not consi­der my Father as an Enemy, if he continues hers, and leave him no way to act his revenge, but through his Son. I believe you (Sir) I believe you, (said the wounded Gentleman, kissing Pacorus's Hands for joy) since to doubt so strange a change, were to doubt her power that causes it, who has evinc'd upon me in particular, that it is as much above being limited, as resisted; for she has inspir'd me with a Passion without hope, the greatest miracle but that which created it. I know (said the impatient Pacorus, interrupting him) what her Beauty is, more by the effects, than I can by the description. I will tell you, (the other reply'd) that the goddess of it, is the Princess Altezeera, and though I look upon her as my future Queen, yet I find she has a greater Soveraignty over me by her Eyes, than her Birth, and I resent more despair from the greatness of her perfections, than from that of her quality. This confession, nothing but a certainty of death could have disclos'd, and if I should have been so miserable, as to be mi­staken in my conjecture, I am certain I shall not be in my resolution, which will prove constant enough to punish the discovery of a secret, which nei­ther the tortures of a fruitless Love, nor Flames as great as my presump­tion, has, or could extort from me. Yes (Sir) I will tell you my short and unfortunate Story, I saw the Princess Altezeera, and consequently ador'd her, but with a Silence as great as my Passion; the heighth of my aspiring was to languish, and consume in that devotion, and because I sus­pected my Eyes might discover my Heart, or my Actions, what I knew [Page 315] my words should not, having some skill in Limning, by a thousand stolen opportunities, and by an Idea which was always present, I drew this Pict­ure, whose Eyes being disarm'd of their light, by these faint Colours, omitted me to contemplate without dazling, what I could not in the Divine Original. This is my highest crime, and so much I adore what I love, that I shall esteem her the highest Mercy if she pardons it; But (Sir) if ever the gods so bless your Flame, as to make the Princess Altezeera the reward of it, and that your discourses lead you to remember the occasion which made you first a Lover, do not mention my unfortunate fire, with that scorn the ambition of it merits, but with some resentment of that vo­luntary death I have embrac'd, out of a sence of my presumption; Let the remembrance too, of that safety it will give her, and of that blessing it will for you be instrumental in, extinguish a Fault, for which I extinguish my Life, and though I am your Rival, yet the way in which I am so, being a sufficient punishment for having been so. The poor Gentleman was able to proceed no further, for either the enlarging his wounds upon the loss of Altezeera's Picture; the despair of repossessing it; the apprehension of out-living the discovery of his Passion; or the joy of his Death being like to prove the preservation of his Princesses Life; cast him into a swound, from which, all Pacorus's help, nor the Chirurgeons, could recall him any longer, than to beg the Prince not to fight against his Conqueror; which he had no sooner said, than an eternal silence clos'd up his Lips. Pa­corus was so generous as to celebrate his death with some Tears and Sighs, excusing his crime by the knowledge of what created it, which by expe­riment he found, was of a quality, that to avoid was far more difficult, than to imitate; but the last summons of his dead Rival made him imme­diately go into his Fathers Camp, where finding him busy about his ap­proaches, and all the assistants withdrawing themselves out of respect, he told Arsaces, after some other common discourses; Would it had pleas'd the gods (Sir) to have given you an employment, more suitable to your in­clination and quality, than this you are now upon; for you only labour for that which is already effected, and cannot be more successful than you are, without rendring your self less worthy of it; Your Sword (Sir) has made Artabazus confess he is vanquish'd, let not therefore his ruine do it; If he makes any resistance, 'tis you give him that power, and by giving him despair, you give him resolution: you have conquer'd him already by force, do it again by humanity, make a King your friend, by declining making him your Vassal: to conquer your self is a greater victory than to conquer one you have already conquer'd; and the Romans hereby will apprehend a power, that has vanquish'd both Arsaces, and Artabazus, toge­ther. I will not (said Falintus) tell you all Pacorus's reasons, since they appear'd none to his Father, who esteem'd the best advantage of a victo­ry, was, to win, and not to merit a Kingdom; and indeed that violent Prince was so far from pardoning his Enemies, that he almost reckon'd Pa­corus in their number, for making so merciful a Proposal. In the horrors of this denial he return'd to his Tent, where after he had spent an hour in the highest disorders that ever man was capable of, on a suddain his Face assumed a joy, which Labienus (who only was present) knew not unto what to ascribe it; but it sprung from a cause, which rais'd Gallantry to a height, it never knew before; and if Altezeera's constancy could have been capable of excuse, this performance had been a sufficient one for her new Lover, finding Arsaces unremovable, by his having given him a flat refusal of what he even begg'd with Tears, which till then he never had; [Page 316] That generous Prince, the night before a general Assault was to be given, the breach being wide enough, and wanting hands to defend it, (accom­panied only by Labienus his Confident) as if he went to view it, came in­to Tygranocerta by it, and having deliver'd himself up to the Guards, de­sir'd them to bring him to the Princess Altezeera, to whom he said, he had some affairs of singular importance to impart; The Captain which com­manded the Post, immediately brought him to the Palace, where the Prin­cess (who then was with her Brother at their Devotions, expecting ne­ver to see another night, but an eternal one) being inform'd that a Gen­tleman of quality (which both his Meen and Cloaths spoke him) was stol'n from the Camp, to give her an intelligence, came into a great Hall to re­ceive it, but as soon as she appear'd, the poor Pacorus found how short Art had been of Nature, and that if he had had cause to love the Picture, he had more to adore and admire the original; though some few days be­fore, either an indisposition, or some other Melancholly, had cast her into a Feaver, which but then she had got out of; but there is a Beauty in Lil­lies, as well as in Roses, and that little paleness did but better set off the blackness of her Eyes, which shot so piercing, and bright a Flame into the trembling Parthians heart, that his silence, and disorder gave the fair Alte­zeera as great an astonishment, as her Beauty had him. But his being some­what dissipated, he esteem'd the making an Apology, for that fault was a greater than he had committed, since his offence was of a quality which carried its justification with it; therefore with as much Grace as Humility, he only told Altezeera, Madam, He which has employ'd a part of his life against you, presents unto you all of it, and will esteem your Pardon a Cruelty, if you preserve his, but to employ it perpetually in your service: Yes Madam, you have now in your power, the criminal Pacorus, who op­pos'd your Brother's Arms, but he neither had the power, nor the desire to resist yours, to which he renders his mind as much a Prisoner, as his Body: Judge then (fair Princess) of the authority of my Conqueror, who extends her power over that which is immaterial, and has no exist­ence, but in speculation; Punish (Madam) Arsaces's cruelty in Arsaces's Son, or if what I have done, induces you to believe, though I am ally'd to him, yet I am not to his crimes; shew it, I beseech you, by commanding me to oppose it at the breach, that if he enter, it may be through me, and so necessitate him to a Victory, he must celebrate in Tears, as well as Bloud; My life which has been so often employ'd against you, cannot expiate that sin, but by being sacrific'd for you; however, you have now wherewithal to make (or rather to impose) your conditions on Orodes, who perhaps, had rather lose Armenia, than Pacorus. Oh gods! (conti­nu'd Falintus) is it possible to tell you the fair Altezeera's wonder and sur­prize, all the while the Prince of Parthia was speaking? No no, it is not, for were it describable, it would be less than it was, but left he might from some strange belief of her perplexities and silence, she told him. Whatsoe­ver (Sir) you ascribe your coming hither unto, I must not to your submis­sion, but to your power, which is more evinc'd by entring this City alone than with an Army, or else perhaps, 'tis to increase the Ardor of yours by joyning the liberty of their Prince, to the winning of Tygranocerta. Ah Madam (said Pacorus) I have so lost my liberty, that it lies as little in my Armies Power, as in my own Will to recover it, and if I have flung my self within these Walls, 'twas rather to deterr the Parthians from entring them, than to incite them to it; you raign too absolutely in my heart, not to know this Truth, and if you desire I shall dye fighting against Arsaces, 'tis rather [Page 317] to satisfy your revenge, than you doubts; but if I am so unfortunate, as not to fall in your defence, you have still wherewith to act your revenge; Your Beauty gives you as much the power, as my past crimes gives you the justice. Since (said Altezeera) you will have me believe you are come to preserve those you have hitherto endeavour'd to destroy, I will do it; but it proceeds more from my obedience, than my Reason, though I must acknowledge, I have had so high a Character of the Prince Pacorus's Gal­lantry, that I should have thought him capable of all, but this which he has now acted, and which is of a Nature, that to suspect, 'tis too great to be true, is to oblige it when it proves so. Madam, (the Prince reply'd) if you suspect my Professions, but to invite me to evince their reallities by my actions, you will as much oblige me upon that score, as injure me, if your doubts proceed from any other. Whilst the Princess and Pacorus were thus discoursing, Labienus was brought to Artabazus, to whom he told his Princes Story, and how by giving him Altezeera, he had not only wherewith to save his Crown for the present, but to secure it in the future. The King, at so unpresidented an accident, was cast into admirations, as great as his fears, but having reflected a while, both on the Virtue of Paco­rus's performance, and on the advantage of his Alliance; he gave Labienus an answer which gave him large hopes; for he was concerned in his Prin­ces felicity, and by having seen Altezeera, he found his Passion was as commendable, as great; but Artabazus esteeming it high time to visit his voluntary Prisoner, went with Labienus to him, and found, his person was as handsome as his action. There Pacorus, by reiterated, and passionate expressions, implor'd a Pardon for a Crime, which his ignorance made him commit, and which his knowledge did sufficiently revenge. 'Twas in dis­courses of that quality they spent the residue of the night, and the day no sooner appear'd, than Arsaces Army storm'd the breach, and thereby gave so hot an Allarm, that it came to his Sons hearing, who hastily told Altezeera; That Life (Madam) which has been employ'd against you, shall now serve to preserve you, or else shall be lost for having been too-active, and too-impotent, farwell fair Altezeera, you shall find I will shed my Bloud for you, with greater confidence than I dare tell you so. Then saluting the King with much humility, but his Sister with much more, he put on his Helmet, and follow'd by Labienus and some Armenians, he ran where the noise and danger call'd him, which was indeed great, and had not his Courage and Fortune been so too, we had lost Tygranocerta, and he his Life; but though he perform'd things as worthy wonder, as relati­on, yet all had been fruitless, had he not by lifting up his Helmet, and telling his Name, struck such a reverence and damp into the Parthians, that they made a general stand in the way of victory, and suspended their bloody Arms in the Air; which Pacorns observing, though his wounds were many, and dangerous; yet leaning on his Sword in the mouth of the breach, he forc'd himself to tell them; These wounds, valiant Parthi­ans, which I have hitherto receiv'd, carry your excuse, in your ignorance, but those you hereafter give me, must be sins of design, and consequent­ly pierce me deeper, than your Swords; neither can you avoid this crime, but by retiring to your Camp, for whoever makes his passage into Tygra­nocerta, must do it thorough his Prince, who commands you by that duty you owe him, and which he will abundantly reward, to return to Arsa­ces, and to let him know, that by becoming an enemy to the Princess Al­tezeera, he has made Pacorus his; That if he values his Sons safety, he must demonstrate it by his care of hers; which if by a repeated Assault, he [Page 318] endeavours to endanger, I will draw my Army in for to maintain it, and esteem the crime of opposing my King, and my Father, a lesser than his, which necessitates me to it; and if at last I have not force to resist his, I will not want it to end a Life upon a breach, which it was so unfortunate as not to defend. Do not believe, (he continu'd) that this Declaration is dicta­ted by heat, or passion; no, it proceeds from a just and digested resoluti­on, and if either Arsaces, or you, do doubt the contrary, and that these wounds do not sufficiently manifest this Truth, I will by so bloudy an ex­periment, convince both him, and you of it, that perhaps your griefs shall be as large as your doubts. These words spoke with grace and vehemency, and the great respect all the Parthians paid Pacorus, wrought a pro­portionate effect; many were willing to obey his Commands, others which knew his disposition, apprehended to prosecute a victory, which could not succeed, without losing more than they could win in it, and some who thought to have seen their Prince at the head of their Troops, killing the Armenians, were so surpiz'd to find him at the head of his Enemies, kil­ling his Servants, that their wonder made them obedient, and observing Pacorus's Army had not storm'd, contrary to their Orders (for I omitted to tell you, he had given them express commands, not to draw out of their Camp, whatsoever they heard, till they did so, either from himself or La­bienus) they began to suspect there was some intricacy in the business, which their prosecuting any further, might discover to their ruine, or their Prin­ce's; all these inducements, and (as the gods would have it) one Ryso­lis, ( Pacorus's Creature) commanding these Troops, were the causes that they began by degrees to retire, with several tones of murmurings, which sufficiently manifested, their retreat proceeded from divers apprehensions. But the Enemy had no sooner abandon'd the breach, than the Prince, by the loss of a deluge of Bloud, swounded in Labienus's Arms, who by the assistance of some Soldiers which had defended it, was carry'd to the Palace, and lodg'd in a magnificent Appartment, Artabazus had provided for him, and where, by force of Cordials he was restor'd to that life, which but seemingly had left him. His sences were no sooner return'd, than the chiefest of them was entertain'd by the fair Altezeera, who Artabazus had brought with him to acknowledge, and reward that Gallantry, which had been so advantageous to them both. After the King had made his re­tributions, he withdrew himself to the other side of the Chamber, to resign his place to the Princess, who Pacorus no sooner saw, than he fell into tremblings and confusions, which better exprest his acknowledgements, than his words could; but Altezeera esteeming his performances, merited more than a silent visit, told him; You have, Sir, endanger'd your Life to preserve your Enemies, and by that demonstration of your Virtue, we find our safeties purchast at a rate, which makes us esteem them a greater misfortune, than our ruines could have prov'd. Alas Madam (said Paco­rus) you more endanger my life, by giving those I have fought for that name, than those have done which I fought against, and were there any me­rit in my duty, 'tis too abundantly rewarded by your saying there is, and by a visit, which I would perpetually implore, by repeating greater dangers, and greater wounds; but alas Madam, can you so soon pardon a declara­tion I made, when I thought I should repair it by my death, which be­fore now I had acted, did not I find my life would at least contribute as much to your safety, as the loss of it could to your revenge; but Madam, I told you a Truth, which was of a quality which told it self, and my words did acquaint you, but with that, which every perfection about you [Page 319] does, so that what I presum'd to mention, was as needless, as presumptu­ous. Altezeera, (who extreamly dis-relish'd entertainments of this sort) reply'd, if my expressions (Sir) have not acquainted you with my grati­tude, I believe my suffering of these discourses will, but I give them to your actions, and condition, and will in the future, acknowledge your ab­staining from them, as great a favour, as any you have done, or are ca­pable to do unto me. Ah Madam (said Pacorus, after a little silence, and some sighs) why do you inspire me with so much passion, and command me to conceal it, and why do you take from me the power of obedience, and yet enjoyn me it; would to the gods you had commanded me to sup­press my Life, instead of my Words, you should have seen by an instant experiment, that I prefer nothing before the honor of obeying you, and in that performance be convinc'd, if I am disobedient to your first Com­mands, 'tis because I am uncapable, and not unwilling to be otherwise: Yes fair Princess, 'tis as impossible for me not to tell you that I adore you, as 'tis not to do it, my Passion would be less, could my obedience be great­er, I can therefore hardly condemn a fault which justifies so glorious a Truth; but if the fair Altezeera does, that Arm which has oppos'd her Ene­mies, shall execute one of them, and forget the interests of his Master, to satisfy those of his Conqueror. I render (Madam) my intentions as visible as my Flame, that you may either permit the latter, or punish the former; were you a Beauty which needed time to evince the reality of my Passion, or which perseverance and services might give me a Title to, I should use that dull method; but since your perfections do not only manifest the former, but suppress all hopes of the latter, I have the first minute of ado­ring you, as great a Title to my Felicity, as I can have the last, so that the object of my Flame being different from all others, the ways of my addres­ses must be so too; and the refusing me that blessing now, is to assure me you will eternally do it, since there can never be any thing in me to induce it; therefore Madam, resolutely pronounce my sentence, for next living in your Favour, the greatest felicity is, dying by your Commands, which latter I protest, by the Princess Altezeera I will perform; but yet, Madam, do not think I will, to pay you one duty, decline another, and deprive you of my service, whilst it is so blest as to be useful to you; No, be­fore he which adores you shall fall your sacrifice, he will make many others do so, which fight against you, and will never neglect his own quiet, till he has establish'd you in yours; for your suppressing my hopes, shall not my duty, and to serve you for any reward but the Honor of serving you, were to deserve none. Altezeera was extreamly perplex'd at this vow, and judging of his resolution by the violence in which he utter'd it, she reply'd; Your wilfulness (Sir) reduces me to strange extremities, either to suffer your crime, or to suffer by it; but believe me, if I should elect the first, I must unavoidably the last. Ah Madam ( Pacorus cry'd out) had the gods any way but this to make me miserable, whilst you permitted me to adore you? No fair Altezeera: I will dye sooner than live at this rate, and did not my duty enjoyn me this election, my gratitude would; I will, Madam no more hope to raise my felicity, since it must be by your sufferings, I will languish out this sad Life, till it may be no longer useful to you, and when it cannot serve, it shall not trouble you. Pacorus spoke those words so distinctly, that Artabazus ran to his Bed-side to learn their cause; but the Prince had too-fetl'd thoughts of Death, to disclose any thing which might prevent it, and Altezeera was too much offended and troubl'd, to discover the occasion of either; but though the King could not learn the [Page 320] reason of this disorder, yet he imagin'd it, and in that Faith drew the Princess aside, where whilst he was infusing Gratitude, if not Love, into her, some of Pacorus's Domesticks came in, who having understood their Prince's condition, had abandon'd the Camp, to come and pay him their Duties. 'Twas by them he was inform'd (at the Parthians return to Ar­saces's Camp, and at their telling him the cause of their not taking Tygra­nocerta) that Orodes had assum'd the highest fury that ever Man was capa­ble of: that he had call'd him Rebel, Traytor, and all those injuries which a violent rage is aptest to dictate: that he had protested he was more troub­led for his Sons crime, than for that victory it hinder'd: that he hated him as much as he had lov'd him: that he would have sacrific'd all those which would have obey'd Pacorus, had not they vow'd to sacrifice them­selves, or redeem him from his voluntary restraint: and that the next night they intended to repeat the Assault. This news more perplex'd Ar­tabazus, than either Altezeera or Pacorus, who knowing his Father, was unresistable in his fury, immediately told Artabazus; I know (Sir) Ar­saces will make use of Force, and therefore I will; he has an Army to ass­ault you, and I shall not want one to defend you; neither can that Army which has reduc'd you to this condition, better repair that sin, than to free you from it; 'tis therefore with your permission I will send Labienus to my Camp, that if Orodes does attempt his threatnings, I may have wherewithal to make them still bear but that name; My Army (Sir) can­not be more gloriously employ'd, than to preserve a pefection as high as the sin that would destroy it, and from hindring their King from being unjust, and barbarous; for the Faith of those I shall draw into Tygranocerta, I will mine; and that they shall continue within these Walls, but to obey you, and to defend them. I cannot tell you what operation this gallantry had with Artabazus, who only exprest it by a thousand embraces; but the Prin­cess Altezeera, was so mov'd with it, that before she left the Chamber, she told Pacorus, If you do not believe your Life is considerable to me, you do me as great an injury, as an obligation if you preserve it. Madam (said the Prince (taking the confidence to kiss her hand, on which he Printed his burning Lips) I will preserve my Life, till I know my death will be a great­er duty; Whilst Labienus was preparing things in his Princes Camp, which lay on the West side of the River Nicephorus, Arsaces was the next night preparing to assault Tygranocerta, yet with intention, that so much of it should be spent, as the light of day might see his Vicotry; He chose to be­gin the Assault during the obscurity, to avoid the Enemies Darts, and Ar­rows, before they came to the breach, and left the sight of Pacorus might produce a resembling effect to the precedent. At the hour assign'd, the Arsacian Parthians began the storm, and no sooner did the Allarm reach Labienus, than he entred Tygranocerta with 10000 of the same Nation, but of a different Party. The Affailants admir'd to find the breach so well de­fended, and the Defendants that they durst assault it, but the day no soon­er appear'd, than the Stormers wonder ceas'd by another, and by their griefs; the first, to find that those which should have contributed to their victory, oppos'd it, and the last, to find, theirs must be won of their Countrey-men, to be won of their Enemies, these, and many other mo­tives, too large to be deduced, by a motion of Labienus's, and by the ha­zard and crime of the attempt, made the Arsacians condescend to return from the Assault of Tygranocerta, so the Pacorians would from the defence of it; which compact being concluded, was immediately perform'd; for Pacorus, (to suppress whatever jealousies Artabazus might have) com­manded [Page 321] Labienus to retire to his Camp, and not move from thence, but upon a resembling cause to that which had drawn him from it; and truly that generous Prince seem'd to be griev'd at nothing in his Soldiers success, but his having had no share in it. During this fight about the Town, there was another in the Camp, for Arsaces understanding of what Labienus had done by his Princes Commands, march'd out of his own Camp with 20000 Men, to his Sons (over the Bridge of Boats which Labienus unfortunately had not broken) to keep those in awe by his Forces, which his Presence and Authority could not; but Pacorus was so passionately lov'd by his Army, that though Arsaces reign'd over, yet he did in them, so that they all oppos'd the Arsacians, as if they had been Armenians; and if the gods had not protected Orodes's person, he cast himself into so many dangers, that that obedience his Sons Army paid him by Affection, they must have by Duty. But though the King had assum'd an inordinate rage, yet he had not so absolutely resign'd all his Faculties to it, but upon the approach of Labienus, and his Forces, who were then returning to their Camp; Ar­saces, who believ'd they came victorious from the Assault, and would prove so in the relief of their Companions, sounded a Retreat, and having drawn up his Army near the Bridge, and secur'd it, sent a Trumpet to command Labienus to come to him, and an engagement for his safe return; Labienus satisfy'd with the latter, obeys the former, and in words (the most moving he could invent) implor'd him to pardon and settle a Passion, whose great­ness he might judge by the effects, and whose justice he could not but be satisfy'd with, when he saw the Beauty which created it; that he could not destroy his Sons Love without his Life, that therefore his Revenge on his Enemies, would prove theirs on him, and that by a Marriage he might save Pacorus, and possess Armenia (for then the news was brought of Tygranes's death) But Arsaces, who sent for him only to know the cause of his retreat to the Camp, and to command his continuance in it, having learnt that 'twas by a mutual agreement, and not by a repulse, that the Arsacians were return'd, more troubl'd at the first cause of it, than he could be at the last, proclaims immediately Labienus (and all those which should assist Paco­rus) Traytors; but finding by what they had done, what they might do, he left Phraates, Surena, and Vixores, with all those Forces he had brought with him, to hinder Labienus relieving Pacorus, in case he should attempt it, and flying to his own Camp, he drew all his Soldiers out of it, and by few but sharp words, condemn'd their remissness, and call'd that their Fears, which they palliated with the name of a tenderness of shedding their Companions bloud: that if this opinion was misplac'd on them, they had an opportunity now to evince it, since he had brought Labienus to obey him by duty or by force, and they had now ouly to oppose those Armeni­ans, who could no longer continue their preservation, without as high a dishonour to the Parthians, as advantage to themselves; in brief, he so fully remov'd all their scruples, and so incited their Valours, by injuries, and promises of Reward, that the Solidiers by a precipitate march, went to repeat the Assault. Oh gods! what a confusion did this Alarm raise in the Armenians, who found their expected ruine the more bitter, by their late confidence of having absolutely avoided it; but this sad news no soon­er came to Artabazus's knowledge, than he ran transported to Pacorus's Chamber to acquaint him with it; The generous Parthian at this fatal in­telligence, did Labienus and himself so much wrong, as to suspect his Fide­lity, but learning that the Camp was in as great disorder as the Town, * [Page 322] he condemn'd himself for having condemn'd his Favourite, and finding all things desperate, inspight of Artabazus and his Chirurgion's intreaties, he hastily put on his Cloaths, and commanded some of his Domesticks to carry him in a Chair to the breach, whither as he was going, he met the Princess Altezeera, at whose Feet (causing his Men to stay) he prostrated himself all pale, and bloudy, (for by the violence of his fury and motion, some of his wounds fell fresh a bleeding) and having a while embrac'd her Knees, he told her, Can you yet (Madam) have so much goodness left, for one whose Father endeavours your destruction, as to permit him to speak to, and see you? this is an undeniable proof you know, and possess my heart, for if that were not legible, you might justly make me a sacrifice to your re­venge, and not permit me the honor of dying one for your safety. I go (fair Princess) to fall for your preservation, if I cannot obtain it; and you shall never see this offender again, unless by his services he effaces some of his offences, if Arsaces do deprive me of that generous Ambition, I will de­prive him of his Son, and if I now find my Fate, all that I implore, is, that the way in which I receive it, may expiate the sin of the Fathers cruelty, and the presumption of the Sons Passion. These words, with the postures he was in, so pierc'd the Princess's Heart, which was capable of all impressions, so neer ally'd to Virtue, as Pity, that she demonstrated hers, by some Tears she could not possibly restrain, which Pacorus observing, he continu'd; you weep, fair Princess, I will go and dry your Tears, by making those which cause them, to weep Tears of Bloud, or not live to see and participate in your sorrow. Then with a trembling respect, taking the Princesses hand, which her confusion made her not oppose, he printed on it such passionate and ardent kisses, that those which saw them, thought his Soul would sooner come out of his Mouth, than his Wounds; in this extasie he had longer continu'd, had not a great cry awaken'd him out of it, and call'd him from pleasure to danger, whither he went with Tears, not for the latter, but for abandoning, as he thought, eternally theformer. As soon as he came to the breach (which by the industry of some Defendants, had been a little repair'd) he caus'd himself to be set in the mouth of it, where danger, as great as his resolution, threatned him, and where he found that shout he had heard, proceeded from the Armenians, at the arrival of Phanasder, who hearing the danger Tygranocerta was it, caus'd himself to be carried where 'twas most visible, esteeming it a nobler destiny, to dye in the Bed of Honor, than in that of sickness; I follow'd him immediate­ly with the same resolution, and in a resembling posture, and came time enough to see Pacorus with his Sword, threaten the Conquerors, who no sooner saw their Prince in so sad and generous a posture, than by degrees those clouds of Darts and Arrows began to diminish, and at length ceas'd; as soon as the noise was so, Pacorus with eloquence than I thought a man in his disorder was capable of, so mov'd the Parthians Hearts, and Affecti­ons, that in the end, concluding with a reiterated, and deep vow, when he could no longer defend the breach, he would kill himself in it, and that he was confident if they would retire, either to restore his Father to his former affection in few days, or himself to his Duty, they began by little and little to draw off, which when they were entirely, Pacorus told Phanasder and me, that he never had a higher Duty, than that which he paid Altezeera, and that he only mention'd that word, to reduce the Par­thians to theirs, and to protract the time, till he could draw in La­bienus, and some Forces. Whilst we were in the admiration of this ge­nerous [Page 323] Prince, and upon our return the Centinels upon the highest Towers, gave us a fresh Allarm, which we found was no false one, for we immediately perceiv'd the Parthian Ensignes flying towards us, and the foremost of them carry'd by one, who Pacorus at last knew to be Ar­saces, who seeing his Soldiers retreat, and learning the occasion of it, in that fury both inspir'd, he ran to the Ensign of the first Milliary, and having forc'd it from him, he cryed out to the rest, I told you, degenerate Parthians, 'twas your fear, you disguis'd under a false Name, for now that you fought for Glory, and against your Enemies, you resign your first to the last, in which number I include the false Pacorus, who is a Trai­tor to his King, and to his Father, and whose sight should rather inspire you with revenge, that respect; you fight not against your Prince, but his crimes, which being great enough to make me divest my self of all the dictates of Nature, may well invite you to cast off those of respect; nei­ther can you avoid punishing his sin, but by committing a greater; re­member, from your Prince he is become your Enemy, and that in taking Tygranocerta, you subdue a Kingdom, and a Rebel, who is much more con­siderable; neither will I command you to act what I will decline, do but follow your King, destroy you the Armenians, and I will Pacor [...]s. Let us go then, valiant Parthians, by your performances merit that Title, which the more to induce you to, I vow by the gods, I will find in this assault, my satisfaction or my death. Finishing these words, he marcht at the head of his Troops, and through a storm of Arrows, which were shot, before Pacorus knew his Father, he came to the foot of the breach, somefollow'd him out of Duty, some out of Fear, but the most (as I have been since told) to oppose, and divert him, if affairs were reduc'd to exreams; but the generous Pacorus no sooner knew Orodes, than he commanded the Armenians, to forbear all hostility for a little, and that good conclusion of this difference, or his death, should render his Orders useless, or dis­pence with their infringement of them; this being obey'd, he raises him­self up, and leaning on his Sword, he cry'd out, Arsaces, cruel Arsaces, here is that Son, which thou prosecutest more than Armenia; retire thy Forces out of the latter, and I will deliver thee up the former, and if thy fury has not so entirely divested thee of Nature, as to become the ex­ecutionr of thy Son, he will in recompence become his own, and there­by evince himself thine, since nothing but so near an alliance could in­duce him by death, to exempt thee from what, if acted, will make thee deserve it. There is Divinity Arsaces, within these Walls, and if thou esteem'st my saying so, no Truth, thou wilt change thy opinion, if thou reflectest on what her defence has made me undertake, and what reve­rence thy Soldiers have paid her Defender, or if both these will not in­vite thee to that belief, the seeing of her will; but if nothing can move thee to reason or pitty, I attest that perfection I adore, and which thou committest a sin if thou dost not, that the first step thou mak'st towards her destruction, I will act mine, and perhaps, when thy choller has re­sign'd what it has usurp'd over thy reason, thou wilt find some, in deplo­ring a Son, who thou didst once honor with thy affection, and who has lost it in a performance, which hereafter (but when 'tis too late) thou wilt con­fess has given him a better Title to it. Whilst Pacorus was thus speak­ing, all the Parthians, (as their King) did make a stand, and in imitation of the Armenians, had desisted from shooting, with Looks, in which a small Phisiognomist might have read their Hopes of not doing it again, and in a silent eloquence, seem'd to implore that Command from Arsaces, [Page 324] whose answer they expected, and heard with impatience, for it was thus; Traitor, and degenerate Pacorus, who to aggravate thy crimes, canst mention the name of Son, and yet be in Arms and Rebellion against me; know, that the same moment thou hast cast off the duty of a Son, I have divested my self of the relation of a Father, and consequently that death thou threatnest me with, loses that operation with me, which thou act it, I shall in part excuse the sins of thy Life, and consider it rather as an effect of the greatness of their horror, than of thy affection! Neither can I com­mit any higher crime than to pardon thine, for thou hast robb'd me in one action, of a Son, of Glory, and of Quiet, which two last I must, and will restore, by the destruction of the first; for that Divinity thou mention'st. I am confident she is none, were it only for inviting thee to sin; but if she be one, let her shew it in her defence, for I am determin'd on so vigorous an Assault, that nothing but a Divinity can render it un­successful; Then turning to the Parthians with a furious look, he com­manded them to follow him, and began in a hasty march to ascend the breach, but he was stopt by Pacorus, who cry'd out, Stay Arsaces, stay, since thou art so greedy of my death, behold I will act it, and it the ta­king out of the World him that robb'd thee of a Son, of Glory, and of Quiet; and if he that restores thee to the latter two, can merit any fa­vour from thee; I conjure thee by those obligations which I will imme­diately confer on thee, content thy self with the submission, and seek not the ruine of Artabazus, or if thy rage has stopt all ways to mercy for him, yet a least, let his excellent Sister be respected, as near as you can extend your duties to her merit; I conjure thee once again by the name of Fa­ther, by the name of King, by this bloud, I shed for thy satisfaction, and by my last breath, grant me this request. Then with a Look, which en­tirely relish'd of Death, turning the Pommel of his Sword to the ground, and the Point to his Breast, he said, farewell eternally, fair Princess, I am capable of no more but to live your Adorer, and to dye your Martyr, and then cast himself so suddainly on the fatal Steel, that though some endeavour'd to prevent it, yet they could not so absolutely, but that he made a large wound in his left side, and fell on the ground, sweltering in a Sea of Bloud; which the Parthians no sooner observ'd at the foot of the breach, than in that rage, the loss of their Prince inspir'd, they were going to increase it by that of their King, who was so struck with Pacorus's last words, and actions, that it dispell'd all his fury, which had no sooner resign'd its place to Grief, Reason, and Nature, than in those dictates they inspir'd, without considering the mutiny of his own Soldiers, or the dan­ger of the Armenian, he clamber'd up the breach, and cast himself on the pale, and bloudy Body of his generous Son, and by Tears, and a million of as pregnant testimonies of his conversion, acquainted Pacorus with it, so timely too, that the least delay had render'd his change as fruitless, as `twas real; for Pacorus finding, after the amazement of his Fall, that he was prevented of his intent, drew out a conceal'd Ponyard, which he was going to sheath in his Heart, had not Orodes by molifying his own, pre­serv'd his Sons. Great gods! (continu'd Falintus) could I tell you these changes which then happen'd, which were as great as suddain, I might fill you with that wonder which did all that were present, and truly when you consider this mutation, the more you do it, the stranger you will find it; the Father and the Son came to take Tygranocerta, the first instead of winning the Town, looses both it and his Son; and the last, both his Fa­ther and his liberty, and yet commands where he has lost it. Artabazus and Altezeera find their Protector in their Enemy; Arsaces loses his Army, [Page 325] because he will lose his Son, ye at last finds his satisfaction in their dis­obedience; Pacorus does the like, and learns this truth from thence, that Affection is a stronger tye upon Soldiers, than Duty, and the unhappiness that all the Parthians lov'd another, better than their King; he finds Death the way to Life, and Danger to Safety. Th' Armenians who did fear to see Orides within their Walls, see it now without any, and that breach they intended, he should never enter but by their deaths, they see him do it with satisfaction. Arsaces, who had the Armenians at his mercy, finds him­self at theirs, and finds himself so without any apprehension, but for the death of him whose life was so lately his greatest. The breach which was the Scene of the general dispute, is now of the reconciliation; and if the Armenians and Parthians had any desires, they were mutual for Pa­corus's recovery, and against Arsaces's relapse. So strange an alteration drew Artabazus and Altezeera thither, whose presence contributed more to the generous Patients recovery, than the Chirurgions A [...]t, by which, never­theless they assur'd the impatient Kings, if no new acce [...]s happen'd, they would restore him to that health, he had so meritoriously lost. There 'twas that Arsaces saw Altezeera, and by that sight, what Nature had par­don'd in his Son, then reason did; 'Twas thought awhile by Orodes's si­lence, and first contemplation, that the influence of the Princesses Eyes, would have run in a Bloud, but it seems he was but so far in the way of Love as Admiration, which he soon left, by the reflection on a Beauty in Parthia, who had so large an ascendant over him, and so just a one too, that his inconstancy could not be more a fault, than a punishment. (These words made the poor Artabanes, by a deep sigh, acknowledge a truth which he determin'd eternally to deplore; but his generous friend, to make his at­tention divert his melancholly, thus continu'd his Relation.) But the calm in Tygranocerta could hardly transcend the storm in Pacorus's Camp, which Phraates affaulted with much resolution, and found as much in his opposi­tion, but if in that day he gave proofs of a large courage, he did of as large a cruelty, shewing all those which submitted to his mercy, that he had none. The faithful Labienus endeavouring to force a passage to the relief of his Prince, almost found his ruine in his Duty, for being pierc'd with two Darts, he was at length taken prisoner, and the cruel Phraates to punish the fidelity of his Life, had given Orders to deprive him of it, which was happily prevented by an Express from Arsaces, who sent to end those differences in the Camp, which he had put a period to in the Town; that being but a consequence of this. The bloudy Phraates receiv'd the com­mand of his being so no longer, and the cause of it, with amazement, repenting he had shed so much Bloud, only because he could shed no more, for he esteem'd the difference between his Father and his Brother, irreconcileable; and by his actions evinc'd that was his Faith, which when he found 'twas an erroneous one, he began by a thousand formal contri­tions, to manifest a Repentance, which he neither had, nor was capable of, and which he counterfeited so, that he discover'd he did so. But (con­tinu'd Falintus) the apprehensions I had, that Arsaces was guilty of a resembling Crime, made me propound to Arbazus, the detaining of him, now we had the power, which I said, the gods gave us, to raise in us the Will; This proposal I fortify'd, by never having engag'd our Faiths for the contrary; that his change was rather from Passion than Virtue; That not being the latter, it would soon expire; that by having him in our hands, we had our safeties too, and so good a tye upon the Parthians, that we might derive it from our selves, and not from their [Page 326] Mercy, And, that we had wherewithal upon their retiring to gratify the Son, by restoring the Father. I had too (said Falintus) to my self, as strong a reason as all these together which yet I durst not mention (I mean) the apprehension that if Orodes were at liberty, the Princess Altezeera would be the condition of the peace, which being inform'd my King was intent upon, though that should the rather have induc'd me to motion it, yet it did to silence it, since it might have render'd me suspected, and that my former allegations were for you, not him. But Artabazus absolutely de­clin'd this overture, either through Fear or Virtue, but indeed all his Ar­guments for his so doing, relish'd of the latter: But (continu'd Falin­tus) why do I dwell so long upon this subject, as if it were to one who were little enough concern'd in it, to be delighted with it; 'Tis too much that you know, after Arsaces and Pacorus had had some private discourse accompany'd with passionate gestures, and that the Father had kist and embrac'd the Son, he took leave of Artabazus and Altezeera, in words which resented of nothing but Friendship and Peace, and begg'd the last to give him good account of a Son, which he entirely left to her dispose, and from whom only they both expected his recovery. After these ci­vilities were finish'd, he descended the same way he came up, and was receiv'd with more shouts from his Army (which attended him at the foot of the breach) for leaving Tygranocerta, than he could have had, if he had conquer'd it. Pacorus immediately after this separation, was com­manded by Altezeera to preserve a Life which she now acknowledg'd, she was more than ordinarily concern'd in; To which injunction, having made his passionate and eloquent retributions, he was carry'd to his Apartment, Artabazus doing him the honor to go on foot by his Litter. But the strong apprehensions Phanasder and I had, that these transcen­dent obligations, the power of a King, and Brother, and the general safety which would as absolutely be hazarded by Altezeera's declining Pacorus, as setl'd by her receiving him, made us joyntly conjure the fair Theoxcena (who was ever publiquely and zealously concern'd in your interests) to go visit Altezeera, and by her perswasions, convert or for­tify her inclinations, which was a Duty our wounds hinder'd us from pay­ing you, and which were more troublesome to us upon that score, than any other. The fair Theoxcena by our desires, judging of our fears, assum'd them too, and with a hasty earnestness, went in her Chariot immediately, to Altezeera, whose discourses at first were somewhat cold, but at last were so entirely divested of all that dull quality, that Theoxcena return'd to us with a Gayity, which manifested his satisfaction, and with assu­rances, that what we had contemplated as arguments of Fear, Altezee­ra did as evincements of her constancy, and that she reflected with joy on Pacorus's obligations, from no other motives, than that Artavas­des might be in them convinc'd, she was uncapable of change, since Pa­corus's Services, Person, and Quality, had not that Power. This generous declaration converted our Fears into nobler Passions, for we were so much concern'd in your satisfaction, that we had rather have hazarded the pub­lique, than it. The next day Regeliza came to visit Theoxcena, where after the first civilities, she told her with a freedom, which is not common to Courtiers, That the Princess Altezeera did not entirely approve her last solicitations, what-ever Face she receiv'd them with, since, if Arta­vasdes were the object of her Passion, she desir'd he should continue so, without deriving that Felicity from any secundary causes; and if he were [Page 327] not, she might attribute her visit, rather to a sounding her intentions, than a confirmation of them. This Madam (said Regeliza) the high re­spects I pay you, makes me discover, and I believe you cannot doubt my Heart, since I acquaint you with my Mistrisses. The virtuous Theoxcena paid this freedom by many embraces, and protested what she had done, was meerly an effect of her Duty, which since it was esteem'd a fault, she would not repeat, neither discover the Cause, or Author of her [...]i­lence. Regeliza thereupon told her, that to the best of her observations, Altezeera was as constant as fair, and that if [...]he deceiv'd Artavasdes, she deceiv'd her too. Some other Ladies then coming in, they began a dif­ferent discourse, which had not continu'd above an hour, but that (as Regeliza was upon the point of her return) she fell into an indispo­sition, that lasted all that night, which she spent on a Couch in Theoxce­na's Cabinet, but the next morning, being in some degree recover'd, she return'd to the Princess, who soon after fell so extream ill, that many thought her Confidents sickness had chang'd its place, and communica­ted it self to Altezeera, who gave express order, that none should give her any visits, till she were in a fitter condition to receive them. This news, and this order, very much troubl'd the generous Phanasder's Mi­striss, who apprehended, that direction was chiefly for her, and that it was general, but the better to cloud it as to her particular. But whilst the fair Altezeera lay strugling with a dangerous sickness (which was so much the more so, that the Physitians were entirely ignorant from whence it proceeded) Arsaces sent a solemn Embas [...]y to Artabazus, to acquaint him, that as nothing but the bestowing the Princess Altezeera on Paco­rus, could give Armenia peace, so that alone should. But alas! her in­disposition so increast, that her Brother fear'd she was like to be the gods, rather than Pacorus's. As soon as this fatal news came to Pacorus's know­ledge, he blasphem'd them for it so transcendently, that it increast their Title to her, at least diminisht his. Those that attended him, during Al­tezeera's sickness, found his condition was more dangerous from hers, than his own, and protested, he sent so often to know if she took any rest, that he hinder'd her from taking any. Three days successively Ar­tabazus had constrain'd Pacorus to keep his Bed, and silenc'd his curi­osities, by words which assur'd him in few days, it should be satisfy'd by Altezeera's sight. But Arsaces, whose Embassadors were return'd with protestations, that nothing but the Princesses sickness hinder'd the honor of being his Daughter, grew so impatient of this delay, both in his own and Pacorus's behalf, and Altezeera's indisposition arriving so unfortunate­ly, that it relisht more of design than mischance, so inflam'd him, that he passionately sent Artabazus word, unless Altezeera would declare to his Ambassadors, the same assurance he had, he would look upon this protraction as a delusion, and resent it at that rate. This harsh message so troubl'd Artabazus, that (all trembling) he went to Altezeera, and conjur'd her on his knees, by the affection of a Sister, and by the pre­servation of that Empire, in which she was to succeed, that she would give her self to Pacorus, who besides the Title of his merit, had that of power, which though he was so civil, as absolutely to decline, yet his Father that had not those invisible restraints, might start into an action, in which they might find an eternal ruine. Altezeera to this, (as Regeliza inform'd Theoxcena) reply'd, That the obligations of fear were not so much to be consider'd by generous Minds, as those of Virtue, and that con­sequently, the Parthian was not to be gratify'd by the ruine of Artavasdes, [Page 328] to whom they were both engag'd by undeniable promises; that could she vi­olate that faith, it might give a just assurance to Pacorus she had none, and so that which he design'd as a cure of their disorders, might create as great as those they supprest. Ah Altezeera! (said the King) 'Tis not we, but ne­cessity, disobliges Artavasdes, and in believing, he would sacrifice his in­terest for our preservation, we acquaint him how much we believe he va­lues us; if in this we are not mistaken in him, he is not disoblig'd; and if we are, he merits to be so. There are (reply'd Altezeera) some things of a quality, in which we may have so good an opinion of Artavasdes that we may thereby leave him none of us; and if I be not much mista­ken, this performance will be of that nature; let us therefore, Sir, sus­pend our resolutions, till we know his, and if he can consider any thing above me, I may be induc'd to consider Pacorus above him. If (said Ar­tabazus) you can esteem it possible to observe this course, after you have perus'd this Paper; I durst almost bind my self to submit unto it. Then presenting her Arsaces's Letter, which was the cause of his visit, she had no sooner read it, than she coldly said; 'Twas not with those Arms she was to be vanquish'd it. But Artabazus, who knew there was a storm in that calm, conjur'd her with fresh and powerful motives, to make her self a Conqueror by yielding; yet all was in vain, for though in Tears he implor'd a more merciful answer, yet the only he could extort from her, was, that if ever she were Pacorus's, if should be as a Guift, and not a Sacrifice. The poor Artabazus, almost frantick at this ill success, went to visit Pacorus, who all this while had labour'd under a belief, that his Princess was in some extremity, and that her being in no danger, was ra­ther his information than her condition; these being his constant fan­cies, 'twas no wonder they were as much his dreams, from one of which he was newly waken'd, when the King came to see him, whose disorder'd look, and moist Eyes, so abundantly confirm'd his fears, that to remove, or resolve them (upon Artabazus's going away (which he did without ac­quainting him with his Fathers desire and threatening, either as thinking it impertinent, if he were accessary to it, and cruel, if he were not) Pa­corus immediately caus'd himself to be drest, and in spight of his Wounds, or Servants, train'd himself along to Alterzeera's Apartment, where having begg'd and obtain'd a permission to visit her, he prostrated himself on his knees by her Bed-side, and after a short silence, which his joy and pain made him keep, he brake it to tell her: I could not (Madam) so much as hope a pardon for this presumption, did I not tell you the cause of it, which proceeds from so high and just a concern in your health; that I have endanger'd mine, to come and learn the state of yours; in which too, I shall find for the future, what to expect from the gods, for if they grant not the fervent'st Prayers I am capable of, I must expect they will never condescend to my others, and so lay aside Devotion as a needless, or at least a fruitless thing. Altezeera, who consider'd Pacorus as accessary to Ar­saces's Crime, told him coldly, he could best give an accompt, whether she were in any danger, since her greatest proceeded from his Father, and him. Oh gods! (continu'd Falintus) how these words struck the poor Paco­rus, you only can tell! but I can that his disorder was such, as she took it for his guilt, and that astonishment which should have evinc'd his being innocent, made her think he was not; but after his confusion gave him leave to speak, he cry'd out, can I then be so near guilty of so horrid a sin, as to be thought so by my Princess? and is she so much my Enemy, that she will wrong her perfections, rather than not wrong Pacorus? ah Madam, if you [Page 329] desire my death for my presumption, you might have taken some milder course, than to send me out of the world, as much hated by my self, as you: Great gods! (he continu'd, lifting up his Eyes and his Hands) why have you given this Excellence so many charms to inspire Love, and so little Faith to believe it; Yet Madam, perhaps I have done already what might create your belief of mine, by a more pregnant perswasion that Faith; but alas Pacorus why dost thou so wrong thy actions, as to believe thy words can create in her a knowledge of that truth, when they could not: shew her by thy death what thou wert during thy life, for she would not use thee at this rate, were it not for that end; yes Madam (he continu'd, addressing his speech again to Altezeera) I will now satisfy your suspitions or your desires, then drawing out a Ponyard, which he constantly wore, he was about to increase the crime of that design, by act­ing it, when the Princess cry'd out, hold Pacorus, I command you, hold, if I have any desires, they will be satisfy'd in your obedience, not in your death, and if I have any doubts, you may be satisfy'd in this Paper, if they were not legitimate. Then she gave him the Letter, Arsaces had sent Ar­tabazus, which he had left with her, and which Pacorus had no sooner perus'd, than fetching two or three profound sighs, he told her, Yes Ma­dam, I am criminal, but I am only so, in being the Son of such a Father; who before a few hours are effluxt, shall send you assurances of another quality, or you shall be convinc'd I am a sufferer and not a sharer in his Guilt. Thereupon, rising up, he took his leave, with a countenance so well appropriated to his words; that those could not more discover his inno­cency, than the other did. As soon as Pacorus was return'd to his Apart­ment, the violence of his motion, but much more that of his grief, cast him into a new Feaver, and set his wounds fresh ableeding, with which he writ Arsaces a Letter, so moving, and so passionate, that it obtain'd from him one, which gave him as much satisfaction, as that he had sent to Arta [...]azus, did the contrary, and another to the Princess Altezeera, where­in he protested, 'twas to accellerate his Sons felicities, that he was so rude as to make use of threatenings, which though it were a strange crime, yet it might serve to evince how infinitely he was concern'd in the honor of her alliance, since only as a believ'd way unto that end, he made no scru­ples to act it, which he repented of, and begg'd a pardon for; and to put himself out of a capacity to repeat that guilt, he would withdraw his Army, if she commanded it, into Parthia, and till he knew with what Orders she would honor him, he would (in expectation of them) retire a hundred Furlongs from Tygranocerta. This Letter (said Falintus) con­tain'd many things of a resembling quality, which my memory is not faith­ful enough to retain, and which coming to Pacorus when Artabazus was with him, he made him the Ambassador to carry it to his fair Sister, who receiv'd that testimony of his innocency and power, so well, that in the dictates those resentments did inspire, and in that lively representation, Ar­tabazus made her of Pacorus's passion and danger, to obey the Kings im­portunity, and perhaps her inclination, she forc'd her weakness to write these few, but powerful words. ‘Live Pacorus, if you desire Altezeera should.’ Never any remedy was more suddain nor efficacious than this, and if there be any charms in words, they sure inhabit in the obliging ones of Love, Pacorus idolatriz'd Altezeera's and was a thousand times more satisfy'd with them, than with that health they afterwards restor'd; and if he had now any desires, none were more violent than those of recovery, to acknow­ledge at his Princesses Feet, that he ow'd not only his, but a more tran­scending [Page 330] Blessing to her goodness. Altezeera too, as if her sickness had pro­ceeded entirely from her constancy, no sooner had divested her self of that, but she did so of the other, and either to sympathize with, or please, her Servant, assum'd her Beauty and Health, as fast as he did his. But the fair Theoxcena, either to satisfy her affection, or her doubts, went to visit the Princess, and Regeliza being then gone to pay one to Artabazus (who of late was so taken with her company, that many thought it was with her) none of Altezeera's other women had either the confidence or the command to deny her an admission: When she came in, Altezeera was newly fall'n into a slumber, which Theoxcena consider'd, as so conducing to her health, that on that score she deny'd her self the honor of her conversation, with­out any reluctancy, and in expectation of it, went to a window in the Chamber, which afforded a diverting prospect. Not above half an hour was expir'd, when Regeliza return'd and being ignorant the Princess was asleep by her coming in, interrupted it. Altezeera knowing 'twas Regeliza open'd the Curtains, and no sooner saw Theoxcena (who was presenting her self to her) than shutting them hastily again, she cry'd out, oh gods! Regeliza, is not it Theoxcena which I see. Yes Madam (said the fair The­oxcena, somewhat surpriz'd) 'tis she, who has acquainted you with her rudeness, that she might with her affection, which could relish of no quiet, till she were satisfy'd of a health, for which she has so great, and so just concerns. Alas Madam ( Altezeera coldly reply'd) if you have any concerns in mine, I shall beg you to manifest them, by denying me any more the honor of your visits, which will be a way more conducing to that end, than any other you can elect. 'Twere almost as hard to fancy, as describe Theoxcena's astonishment, the lowest effect it produc'd, was an amazed si­lence, which Regeliza observing, drew her aside and begg'd her to impute it rather to a suddain and disorder'd wakeing, or indeed to any thing soon­er than a decrease of her affection, in which too, she would be a friend both to Altezeera, and to Justice: But Theoxcena, who ascrib'd it to the reliques of that distaste Regeliza had inform'd her of, or to her infringing the general Orders, which prohibited any visits, went again to the Prin­cess Bed-side, and told her since the crime (Madam) of waiting on you, is esteem'd greater than the duty which invited me to it; I shall hence­forward content my self to enquire of your health at a less offensive di­stance, and no more pay you my visits by intrusion, but obedience. Al­tezeera having only told her, she would esteem it a great obligation; she withdrew her self, Regeliza waiting on her to her Chariot, and making by the way many excuses, which sufficiently manifested themselves to be what they were; I ommitted to tell you, that the next day after the dispute be­twixt Phraates and Labienus, the first of them hearing of a reconciliation, as strange as 'twas either unexpected or undesir'd, sent to visit Pacorus, to implore a forgiveness for an action, which because 'twas against him, he consider'd as a crime, though it were a duty, and which he might the ea­silier grant, since in his very offence he might read something for his justi­fication, for in manifesting he lov'd a King more than a Brother, it evinc'd how good a Subject he would prove, when he became one, by Pacorus's right to the succession. But Sir (said Falintus to me, after a short silence) you must now prepare your self to receive an intelligence that I hope will verify the Fiction of Achilles's Launce, which, not only had the power to give a wound, but to cure it too. Yes (Sir) the gods gave Altezeera her health, but she employ'd it to so ill an end, that we esteem'd her sick­ness a less misfortune, and if Theoxcena by her strange usage had some cause to suspect she was distracted when she kept her Chamber; we had much [Page 331] more to believe she was so when she left it, since the first action she then did, solemnly to promise her self to Pacorus: Yet Artabazus impos'd this restriction on the Grant, that their Nuptials should not be celebrated in Armenia, nor till the Parthians were retir'd, lest that which she intended as a gift, might look like a constraint, and that the Armenians might be consol'd in the loss of such a friend, by being freed from so many Ene­mies. If, Sir (continu'd Falintus) you esteem this a loss, do but reflect on the cause of it, and you can no longer think it one, which opinion I have so justly assum'd, that for your relief, I will not conjure you to make use of your Fortitude, but your Reason only. Great gods! (I cry'd out, all pale and trembling) is it possible then ( Falintus) that Altezeera can be false? and that Fear, not Love, should create her sin? Must that which creates it, be as great an offence to Virtue, as me? unjust Heavens! (I continu'd) could you give none the greatest will to ruine me, but her that had the greatest power to do it? And did you raise me to the highest hopes, but to make my despair resembling? Alas Falintus, I must summon Death, and not Reason for my cure, since the latter in this occasion, does with me as it does in the misteries of Divinity, it may confound, but can­not help: Neither has the reflection on her constancy, the power to do it, for I find, that more my misfortune than her fault, and what satisfaction can it prove, that she had no imperfection, but what was only one to me; her crime is not, that she wants loveliness, but Love, and her new Con­quest cannot more certainly evince the former, than my death must unavoid­ably the latter. If, Sir (reply'd Falintus) 'twas Altezeera, and not the Crown of Armenia you ambition'd — Ah Friend (I cry'd out, inter­rupting him) may the gods continue me in as great torments, as they have cast me into, if ever I ambition'd any Crown, but one of Mirtles, so it were of Altezeera's putting on, and having lost the hopes of that Crown, if I do not contemn all others, as much as she does my Passion. Then, Sir (continu'd Falintus) in my opinion, your Case is not so desperate as your thoughts suggest, for in that very performance in which she has taken away your hopes, she has given you some, since she that has been once inconstant may be thought with probability to prove so again. I, but Falintus (I re­ply'd) you say she is in a manner married to Pacorus. 'Tis true (said Fa­lintus) but that mistery in Nuptials of two being one, is oftner visible to Faith than Sence; and was there never yet a Wife was kind to any but her Husband? Great gods! (I cry'd out, starting up, and laying my hand upon my Sword) that any but a Friend durst say this, and that a Friend should, No, no, Falintus, the way you take, will give me rather Horror, than Love, for I should hate her more for being so kind, than so unconstant; though I am an Enemy unto her, I am not so unto her Virtue, which did I but believe were stain'd, or so much as capable of being so, I should injure her as much as she has my Passion, or my Hopes. But Falintus who per­ceiv'd how great my fury was, by the pain I had to suppress it; that he in­spir'd me with as much rage as grief; and that he had given me Poison ra­ther than Cordial, was so just, and so civil, as to implore my pardon, be­seeching me to believe, that he passionately ambition'd my consolation, since out of but a bare hope of giving me some little, he scrupl'd not to tax Altezeera's virtue, which too he had done, because he esteem'd it a maxim in the cure of Love, to give the Lover an ill opinion of her, that made him one. Yes Falintus (I reply'd) embracing him with some sighs, I forgive you, and will only enjoyn you for reparation, to believe for my sake, what you should for Justices, which is, that Altezeera has no faults, but such as are only so to the unfortuate Artavasdes, and that he is as per­fect [Page 332] in all things, as I am in misery. I had rather (said Falintus) rob you of that Faith, than assume it, for I fear, if it continue yours, it may make us lose, what we esteem as much, as ever you did Altezeera; the short remain­der of whose story, I will beg your permission to tell you, that you may find some consolation in her fault, since I believe she begins to find in it, her pu­nishment. I would (I reply'd) listen to your relation, with a higher satis­faction, if my Life, as well as my Felicity had been ty'd to it, and were to expire withit. I believe (said Falintus) if you hated not Altezeera, you would never have mention'd so offensive a wish, for I am confident your death would prove a much greater trouble to her, than her inconstancy can to you. Would to the gods (I reply'd) I were certain of that, it should not be long before I acted in one performance, both my revenge and my quiet: but (I continu'd) generous Falintus, let me not thus interrupt the finishing of your Relation, in which, perhaps I may find some reasons to make your thoughts my belief, and to which I will listen with as much at­tention, as one in so transcendent a torment is capable of. I have already (said Falintus, prosecuting his narration) acquainted you with that pub­lique and solemn engagement, which Altezeera gave Pacorus, which too was in the presence of Arsaces, Phraates, Surena, and Labienus (who then was recover'd of his wounds) and the Parthian King, to evince he had neither any remnants of hatred, or fear, came into Tygranocerta only, with those usual Guards which attended his person. The joy of this contract was exprest in a solemn Tilting, in which Surena obtain'd entirely the honor, which too he purchast at so much the easier rate, because Phanasder would not dispute it, who had too-deep an impression of your grief, to receive any of joy, especially in a performance, the cause whereof had divested him of all his. But though neither he, nor I assisted at this publick celebra­tion, yet we resolv'd Altezeera should not run into a Sin, without being told of it, which Phanasder and I joyntly went to her Apartment to per­form, where we were receiv'd with that grace, which is as unseparable from her, as charming is from it; but as soon as ever we began to acquaint her with the occasion of our visit, she imposd on us a perpetual silence, and gave us no reason why we should keep it, but that 'twas her Command; only she told Phanasder, he had cause indeed to sollicite her in it. To which he reply'd, That perfect Friendship (Madam) I pay Artavasdes; gives me an abundant cause to sollicite for his felicity, and perhaps the care I have of you, (Madam) is not a much inferior one. I beseech the gods (she reply'd, smi­ling) that both Artavasdes and I, may deserve your care. Phanasder begg'd her to interpret her Prayer, and her smile, but when he perceiv'd she ab­solutely declin'd, to shew we came on business, and not on duty, we im­mediately retir'd, cursing either the nature or humour of the Sex, which to preserve a charitable opinion of, we went to Theoxcena, to whom we gave an account of our visit, which she would not accompany us in, her last ha­ving had so unfortunate a success. That generous Princess seem'd to be glad that either Altezeera by her silence confest her crime was of a quality, where to offer to extenuate, was to increase it, or that her guilt was such a tor­ment, that she avoided all entertainments which could revive it; and though this were her opinion of the Princesses silence, yet she hop'd it would not be yours, but that you would ascribe it to an insolence as high as her Inconstancy, that therein since she would not reward your Passion, yet at least that she would cure it. But Phanasder who could not put an interpre­tation upon Altezeera's Prayer, that you might merit his friendship, at last plac'd one upon her saying, he had cause to sollicite for you, as meaning his, not preserving Tygranocerta, reduc'd her to need it; and though we repre­sented [Page 333] to him, she could not act so transcendent an injustice, as to lay that to him as a crime, in which he had purchas'd so much Glory; yet we could not efface his suspitions, which he fortified by saying, she that cou [...]d be capable of so high an injustice, as abandoning you, for Pac [...]rus m [...]ght justly be suspected to be capable of any other. Regeliza who formerly, of­ten visited Theoxcena, still continu'd that practice, protesting to be as ig­norant of the cause of her Princesses inconstancy, as troubl'd at it; she too invited her from Altezeera, to continue her v [...]sits, who continue her visits, who confest she could not more sensibly revenge her injuries, than shewing her by a daily conversation those charms, of which by her misfortune she had so long depriv'd her self, and which she begg'd her to impute to her sickness, and not to her change. Theoxcena thus civilly invited, and know­ing that what Altezeera alledg'd would prove her revenge, would become her own satisfaction, she went to visit the Princess, where though she us'd her with the same civilities, she had formerly practis'd, yet The oxcena's judgement, or suspitions, deny'd her a belief that they were with the same freedom; and indeed it is a common observation in most of that Sex, that a division betwixt any of them, though it may be clos'd again, yet there will be still remaining some Cicatrice, that will perpetually shew where the wound has been; but Theoxcena, who scrutinously observ'd all she did, found, that her joy was but a part she acted, since she was often out of it, and as she has told Phanasder, and I, she has divers times observ'd her rea­dy to shed tears in her highest mirth, and in the midst of a discourese to stop and start, as if her ill Angel had met her; neither was this her practice only in her Chamber, but in the greatest Assemblies, which clearly mani­fested her resolutions were not as strong as her Grief, or Guilt, Regeliza told Theoxcena too, that she had several times surpriz'd Altezeera in such agonies, that had you seen them, they would have converted your resent­ments into sorrow. One evening too, Theoxcena found she had not made her Prince's condition worse than it really was, for, coming to visit her, and finding no body in the Chamber, she stole to the Cabinet door, where look­ing through a crevice of it, she discover'd Altezeera, acting sorrow so to the life, that she apprehended 'twould have prov'd her death; and indeed Theoxcena found in that sight, as much cause to pity, as to condemn her in­constancy; which had so strong an operation over her, that the immediate­ly retir'd, apprehending lest the visibility of her disorders might have ma­nifested she had discover'd the Princesses. But she was no sooner return'd to her own Palace, than she was visited by the generous Phanasder, and I, where having told us what she had so freshly disclosed (which in our judge­ments evinc'd, Altezeera had more inclination to repair, than continue her crimes) Phanasder after a short debate with himself, propounded that which I extreamly relisht, but which Theoxcena did not, which was, that he would cause a powerful insurrection in Armenia, which should necessitate the Parthian Army to continue in it, and consequently Altezeera not to go out of it; that seemingly to suppress it, he would raise Forces to joyn with Pacorus's Army, that in the mean time upon some pretence of affairs into Syria, I should from thence go directly to Rome, and inform you of all that had happen'd, to desire you to make of your particular interest, one of State, and to press Crassus (who we heard was to invade Parthia) to ad­vance speedily into Armenia, and to hinder an alliance, which if not pre­vented, would render his Conquests impossible, and if prevented, as facile; and lastly, to assure you, that upon your appearance either with the Ro­mans, or singly, all the seeming Rebels and his Forces, should declare for you, and thereby force Alterzeera to as great a necessity of giving her self to [Page 334] you, as she pretended there had been, to give her self unto Pacorus; or at least make it clearly evident, her inconstancy was her choice, and not her constraint; which too, you might have the power to punish, in him that was the creator of it. This generous motion (as I told you) I infinitely approv'd, but the fair Theoxcena seem'd as much averse to it, both as induc'd thereunto out of that high concern she had in Phanasder's safety, and per­haps reputation, which might both run no small hazard in this action, as out of a doubt too, that it might appear to you rather a disobligation, than the contray, who perhaps, by thus having lost the hope of possessing her, had also lost the desire. To these, and many as pregnant arguments, we represented the duty of Friends, and the inclination of a Lover, the first not more powerfully inviting our assistance, than Altezeera's melan­cholly would the continuation of your Passion, and the freeing her from Pacorus's; Yet for all this we obtain'd Theoxcena's consent, rather by her silence, than her granting it. Having thus elected this resolve, under a pre­tence of paying a vow to the god Aesculapius, when I recover'd of my wounds, I begg'd and obtain'd leave from Artabazus, to go into Syria, to a Temple Dedicated to him, which stood upon the Banks of Euphrates; Phanasder would have accompany'd me the first days journey, which I absolutely declin'd, lest it might give a suspition of that, which were abso­lutely ruin'd, if any were taken of it; we therefore took leave in Tygra­nocerta, from whence in three days he determin'd to depart, to put that in execution which we had in design; but instead of going to that Temple, I went but two days on the way thither, and the third (without any Ser­vant, because 'twas a pilgrimage) I took the shortest way to Tyre, where having hir'd a swift Quinquerem Gally, the wind too blowing fair at East, till we came to the length of Tarentume, to which we sail'd and row'd in six­teen dayes (so signally did the gods favour my employment) I caus'd the Mariners to put into this Gulph, which though I thought a misfortune, I now find is a providence, and hope you will so improve it, as not to make the gods repent they have conferr'd it on you.

'Twas thus said, the generous Artavasdes to Artabanes and Callimachus, that Falintus finish'd his Relation, which I hope you have too just an opi­nion of me, not to remember, and though it be of my telling, yet that it was in his words, since many of them were so flattering, that I could not have been vain enough to have spoke them of my self; neither will I trou­ble you with any of my sorrows or disorders, otherwise than by a brief and true assurance that they were proportionate to my loss; which, to repair or revenge, I determin'd to make use of that excess of Gallantry, which the generous Phanasder had offer'd me, and to effect it, immediate­ly to return with Falintus in his Gally. But alas, this resolve was no sooner form'd, than the thought of leaving Artabanes in Rome, and of retiring without him, destroy'd it suddainly again, and that too with more reason than 'twas form'd. But Ventidius observing my trouble, and fancying the cause, so absolutely undertook my excuse, and the care and protection of you (for, continu'd Artavasdes) you know by your permission, I had ac­quainted him who you were) that in the transports of an injur'd, and hopeful Lover, I at last receiv'd Ventidius's assurances as satisfactory, and having again by vows confirm'd him my permission to serve Vdosia, and my assistance to obtain her, I staid no longer than I writ to my dear Artabanes that I referr'd the cause of my fault, and the care of his, and the gene­rous Sillace's safety to Ventidius's relation and Friendship, which being fi­nisht, I went immediately without any Servant but Philanax, to Falintus's Gally, where after a million of embraces and vows of an eternal friendship, [Page 335] I took a final leave of Ventidius, who promis'd to apologize for my abrupt departure to the Senate, by the advantage they would probably derive from it, and who immediately departed for Rome, as we did for Asia. The same wind which had hinder'd Falintus's Navigation, so favour'd ours, that in eighteen days we landed at Alexandretta, from whence with extraordina­ry diligence in six days more I arriv'd at Satala, a Principality which was fall'n to me by the generous Annexanders death, and in which Vdosia resi­ded, whom I went purposely to see, and to give her those just impressions of Ventidius, which should fortify her Heart against the reception of any others. I saw her, (my dear Artabanes) and found in that sight, how much injury the Painter had done her, and how much right Ventidius had done himself in his election, for indeed, never Beauty did both promise and give so much at once as Udozia's, which (in a word) possest such tran­scendent perfection, that had it not been for the reliques of my Passion, I might have found the honor of being her Brother, would not be greater than the misfortune. After these professions which my relations and esteem made me make, I began to conjure her by both, that she would fix her thoughts upon a person, which I not only esteem'd most worthy of them, but which was really so, and which she might be in some degree confirm'd in, when his interior graces were at least equal to those perfections of Na­ture, of which I presented her an imperfect Copy; thereupon I gave her Ventidius's Picture, in a Box so precious, that nothing could be more, but what it contain'd; and then gave her a character of him, which thought it were short of Truth (which had been an inevitable error to whosoever had undertaken it) yet it fail'd not to produce that effect, which a more pro­portionate one to his desert had done; for Udozia whilst I was speaking, with her Cheeks dy'd with a perfect Vermillion so concernedly consider'd the generous Ventidius's Picture, that I thought she would be wounded in the same way, in which she had wounded him; and I was no sooner silent, than she told me, I know not Sir, whether I have more cause to be satisfy'd with your care, or to be the contrary in so evident a demonstration that you doubt my obedience and affection, since in this one Command, con­cerning Ventidius, I find pregnant arguments of both, for your election can­not more abundantly demonstratethe former, than your so earnestly com­manding me, what is as much an effect of my judgement, as obedience, does the latter. Dear Udozia (I reply'd) embracing her) I am not so much an enemy to my own Felicity, as to doubt your Affection; but if I did, your giving your self to any man at my request, had abundantly sup­prest in me that belief, since when you scruple not to be unjust (for I esteem it too transcendent a reward, to be a kind of injustice, and your giving your self to any Mortal, is that rewarad) to raise in me that Faith; I cannot de­cline making it mine, without revenging on myself my own incredulity. Udozia still retaining her blushes (which this discourse continu'd in as high a quality as my request for Ventidius had created them in,) made me a return as full of flattery as mine was void of any, and then gave me a posi­tive assurance of an absolue resigning her [...]elf to my dispose. I thought it then high time to let her know the generous Annexander's death, which till then I had declin'd, because Grief was an ill preparative to Love, being of a contrary quality; and because I thought if she receiv'd the former, it would so entirely possess her heart, that the latter would not have so dangerous an admittance; at last by degrees I acquainted her with that fatal intelligence, which having forc'd us to mingle our tears together, by little and little, I be­gan to dry my own, and she hers in imitation of me; but knowing that to divert a sorrow, is to lessen it, I resum'd again my discourse of Ventidius, [Page 336] to whom I told her, I would, and to whom I then did dispatch an Ex­press, to acquaint him with his Felicity, which I assur'd her he was deter­min'd to come and implore at the head of fifty thousand Romans, whose cou­rages so led, would soon invest her in Empires as large, as the Heart which ador'd her. I then began to enquire in what posture Armenia stood, for Sa­tala was upon the frontiers of it, and the first place in the Kingdom I had rested in: Udozia told me all things were in a general quiet: that the Par­thian Army (upon the intelligence that Crassus lay about the famous Tem­ple of Hierapolis, intending suddainly to invade their Countrey) were all with Arsaces return'd into it, but 10000 Horse, which remain'd as Guards to Pacorus and Altezeera, who were shortly to follow, and which had hi­therto been interrupted by a fresh indisposition of the latters, who yet was now so well recover'd that in three days, she with Pacorus, intended to leave Tygranocerta, and to begin their journey for Parthia, on the fron­tiers of which Empire, Arsaces with all the gallantry of it, had publish'd he would meet them, and that all this she had receiv'd by an Express the day before, from Lindesia. I was not more astonish'd to learn Armenia was in so perfect a tranquility, than joy'd to find Altezeera had not yet left it; and after a short reflection on both, I ascrib'd the former to the latter, and that the gods by having so obligingly detain'd her, had induc'd Phanasder to suspend that Insurrection he intended another cause producing the effect, for which only that was design'd. Neither was my Fancy so little flattering, as not to create in me some hopes, that Altezeera's indisposition was rather a pretence than a reality, and purposely contriv'd to give me time to come to her rescue, and my own felicity: In this Faith I esteem'd it not requisite to invite Crassus's invasion, who too, being in this place, was at too great a distance, to answer so suddain an occasion as mine, but rather to flye to Tygranocerta, and there to form my resolutions accord­ing to my Intelligence. Therefore having found Udozia had as much dis­cretion as Beauty, to let her know that was my belief, I privately sent for Cleomen, the Governor of Satala, who I commanded thenceforth to obey Udozia's Orders, to whom I left entirely the Care and Govern­of all: Cleomen gave me a million of thanks for so pleasing a Command and publish'd himself exceedingly satisfy'd, that what he had hitherto done by inclination, he should now do by duty. Then after having gi­ven Udozia fresh assurance of a passionate affection and friendship, and conjur'd both her and Cleomen, to keep my being in Armenia a Secret, with fresh Horses, and only with Falintus and Philanax, in four days I crost the lower Armenia, and came to Tygranocerta, late at night; the first place I lighted at, was at the Palace of Theoxcena, with whom I was confi­dent to find Phanasder, or learn where I might, and by the advice of so good Friends and Judgements; fix upon the best resolution; but there I learnt, Theoxcena had that day left Tygranocerta with Artabazus, and all the Court, who were gone to accompany Pacorus and Altezeera, towards the frontiers of Parthia. Oh gods! what horror did this fatal news strike me with? but not to contribute to my misfortune, I determin'd (having given our Horses a little refreshment) to follow that Beauty which fled, both from my Passion and me; and therefore went directly to Phanasder's Lodgings, for I could not learn at Theoxcena's any intelligence of him, but that he was not gone with her. Falintus, who went in first, got me a private Apartment, in which I continu'd til he return'd, who soon brought me word, that Phanasder was a days journey from Tygranocerta, and that before he went he had left order, if any came to him from either of us, that he should be speedily advertis'd of it.

[Page 337] I therefore immediately dispatch'd a Messenger to him, to let him know I was come, and that I would the next day overtake Altezeera, and learn my destiny from her whil'st she was in Armenia; and that if he would fol­low me, he should be certain to hear of me from Theoxcena, to whom only besides the Princess I would discover my self. This Express being dispatch­ed, after three hours rest, we began again to prosecute our journey, and the next night overtook the Court, which, by good fortune, lay at a magnifi­cent Castle of Evaxes, whither as soon as we arrived, I endeavoured by all means possible to speak to Theoxcena; but neither my own endeavors, nor those of Falintus and Philanax could procure it, unless absolutely one of us would discover himself, which we positively esteem'd destructive to our design; therefore, after a short consideration, I resolved to make my self known to Evaxes, of whose fidelity I was justly confident, and from him to implore the blessing of an opportunity to entertain without any witness the Princess Altezeera. The civil Evaxes, joyfully receiv'd my disclosing my self, and more the means I gave him of obliging me, which he undertook positively; and bringing me by stol'n passages to that Room alotted for her Bed-chamber, he plac'd me in a Cabinet contiguous to it, and assur'd me so to order all things, that once that night, I should have that opportunity I so passionatly implor'd. I embrac'd him a thousand times for this obli­gation, and gave him as many verbal retributions, which finish'd, I only conjured him to tell me truly, whether Altezeera were yet married to Pa­corus, to which he absolutely assur'd me she was not, neither would be, till her arrival in Parthia. Immediately after this he left me, and 'twas already so late, that I had not been above half an hour in my impatiency and my Prison, when through a favourable little hole, I perceived the Princess come into the Chamber with all those Charms with which she conquered whosoever beheld her, and waited upon by Pacorus the last evincement of that power.

WHen the generous Artavasdes was in this part of his Relation, the Chyrurgions coming in, interrupted it, by acquainting him it was time to dress both his and Artabanes's wounds. This Summons they obey'd, though in it the last of them found a new affliction in his friends hurts, whose dressing was so long of necessity to suspend a Narration, in which he could not be more concern'd than he was ravish'd; but at length the Chyrurgions having performed their duties, and having assured their Pa­tients, that their wounds were as hopeful as their Art could wish, they im­mediately, by Callimachus's command, withdrew themselves, and then Ar­tavasdes, upon his and Arta [...]anes's passionate desire, thus resumed his Story, where they had interrupted it.

PARTHENISSA.
THE THIRD PART.
BOOK III.

GReat gods! (continu'd Artavasdes) you only know my Transports at the seeing of so many Beauties, and of him which ravish'd them from me! Ah! (said I to my self) go Artavasdes, and prostrate at thy Princesses feet, conjure her not to make herself the reward of any thing but her perfectest Adorer, and in that quality implore her for thy self: If Pacorus pretend a Title to her under that Notion, decide it be­fore the Judge, and recompence of the Combat, and by vanquishing thy Rival, conquer her disdain, and inconstancy, or by being vanquisht by him, end thy torments, and thy life: This Artavasdes, is the noblest, as well as readiest expedient; but alas! (I continu'd) she that prefer'd Pacorus be­fore thee, will not so much hazard the object of her love and inconstancy, as to expose his life to a hand, which strikes with the Sword of Justice and Revenge.

Whil'st I was building and destroying a thousand such resolutions, and thoughts, Pacorus was entertaining Altezeera with all the respect and de­votion, so great a beauty and flame could inspire. I must confess my disor­ders for awhile gave me not leave to consider what he was doing, or what he said; but when they did, I endeavor'd by an extraordinary attentive­ness to repair that precious time I had so misimploy'd; and I was no sooner compos'd to a setled hearing, than I heard Pacorus, who kneel'd before Altezeera, thus speak to her: My Princess, alas! why did you confine my joyes from being perfected till you came into Parthia? Was it to torment the ambition of my desires, by so long a protraction of them? or to punish my crime in my continuance of it? or else did you so much injure my fe­licity, to esteem it of so common a quality, that circumstances could in­dear it? and that the suspension of the blessing, could bring any accession to it? If it be the first of these, to continue the punishment of an aspiring which my Princess hath so often pardon'd to my reiterated prayers and tears, is to be as much unjust as she is capable of; and if the latter, she is al­most as injurious to herself, as cruel to me.

Ah! (thought I) how unjust are the gods rather, to confer their bles­sings on one who has no title to them, and who if he had, merits none, by exclaiming against a felicity which nothing but a little time will place him in, and perfect; when at the same instant they divest me, not only of the joyes, but hopes of them, when she too which ought to be the distributer of them is mine, by services, by gift, and by vows. That distance betwixt [Page 339] the place where Altezeera was, and where I remain'd so sad an Auditor, was so great, that she not uttering her answer with that violence Pacorus had done his question, I could not hear it, but I remember after he had printed an ardent kiss upon her hand, he rose up, and told her, I will go rather Madam, and implore the gods either to hasten the motions of time, or re­tard those of my impatiency; for whil'st they both continue as they are, my torments must do the like: Then after some discourses, which I heard but in broken parts, he withdrew himself. I observ'd, that for a short time after, none appear'd in the Chamber, nor that any noise was made about it, and believing I deriv'd this opportunity from Evaxes's favor and engage­ment, not to lose it, I came trembling and pale, out of my concealment, and going to Altezeera in an unequal pace, I no sooner came to her feet, than prostrating my self at them, I told her, If Madam, the miserable Artavasdes presents himself before you, 'tis not to reproach you having made him so, nor to summon you of those holy and passionate vows, which rais'd his joyes to a transcendency nothing can proportion, but the torments your having conceal'd them has cast him into: Neither, fair Princess, can you tell him it can be more his duty, than he does you, that 'tis his inclination, to create your felicity by the ruine of his own. He does not therefore come to conjure you, not to give that blessing to the greatness of Pacorus's Ti­tle, which you a thousand times have promis'd to the greatness of his Pas­sion; for he alwayes esteem'd it so unjust you should bestow the divine Al­tezeera, on one who is almost as much her Subject by the advantage of her birth, as by that of her beauty, that he would have kill'd himself, that he would have dy'd to prevent in her so criminal a mercy; and if he hath liv'd in a contrary flattering hope, 'twas only because he esteem'd no sin so great, as to disobey her.

Whil'st I was speaking a thousand things of this quality, which too I ut­ter'd in the pressingst Accents that ever the highest grief and flame was ca­pable of; Altezeera was so surpriz'd, and astonish'd, that had her affection remain'd as fix'd as her body then did, I had been exempted from transcen­dent torments, by resembling felicites; nor did she awhile after I had ended speaking, give me any Answer which might have resolv'd my doubts, whether her silence proceeded from a cruel, or obliging cuase; for all she said when she broke hers, was only, Oh gods! Is this Artavasdes that I see? Yes Madam (I reply'd) 'tis that Artavasdes who has given the di­vine Altezeera so absolutely his life, that he durst not without her permission put a period to it, though what she has of late acted, has made him languish in such torments, that the best way of making them cease, next to that of the blessing of her esteem, is to make them cease, next to that of the blessing of her esteem, is to make them cease, by the blessing of death: 'Tis therefore (Madam) I present you this Poniard, that if you will not be just to your vows and promises, yet at least, that you will be charitable to him, to whom they were made; and if I implore any thing before I die, 'tis only that I may do it with the consolation of receiving my ease from her, from whom I have my sufferings, and that she will declare I dy'd as in­nocent, as unfortunate. This (fair Princess) if your justice does now deny me, your pity cannot long; for my languishings will evince, death is the lesser ill: Neither, Madam, do I implore it on any score but yours, for my sufferings proportionating my loss, will make such deep impressions in you, that your joyes in your intended Nuptials, will receive a resembling disturbance, at least if you have not as absolutely banish'd Compassion from your heart, as Love; thereupon kissing the hilts of the Poniard, I offer'd that part of it to her, and presenting her my breast, I implor'd her to make [Page 340] what had been the Scene of her highest Empire, now that of a proportio­nate pity. But alas she declin'd making use of that Weapon, to wound me with a more curel one, I mean her words, which accompany'd with an inflam'd look, told me, Traytor Artanasdes, though thy Crimes merit I should become thy Executioner, as well as thy Judge, yet I decline being the former, to make them appear the greater; and if (as thou say'st) thou dost esteem no sin higher than to disobey me, I command thee evince the truth of that profession, by never coming again into my sight. Then ri­sing up hastily, she went out of the Chamber by the same door she came in­to it; and though her remove was very sudden, and that my amazement was as great, yet I cry'd out, Stay Altezeera, though Altvasdes know him­self innocent, yet because you do not think him so, behold how he will punish not his guilt, but his misfortune: Then running to that Poniard she had flung away, I took it up, and in the horror and despair of my conditi­on, I had sheath'd it in my heart, if Evaxes (who listen'd at a back-door) had not has [...]ily come in, and snatching it out of my hand, prevented it. Though it be a transcendent wrong, when one is in proportion at misery, to take away the cure of it, yet my rage not having so absolutely blinded me, but that knowing what was in its own nature an offence, was intended for a charity, I only told Evaxes (having first furiously look'd on him) 'tis in vain Evaxes, 'tis in vain you think to keep mefrom death, by having on­ly took from me one means of acting it, when the wayes which lead unto the Grave cannot be more, than the causes which invite me to it: Then turning from him, and observing Altezeera was gone, I ran precipitately af­ter her, but alas she had lock'd the door upon me, and thereby I found she had not only excluded me from the hopes of possessing her, but from those of clearing an imaginary guilt, to which she implicitely ascrib'd that fatal deprivation. In the rage of so strange an usage, I was a thousand times about to have forc'd it open, had not Evaxes hinder'd me, by representing, that if Altezeera had not apprehended my vindication, she would neither have then deny'd listning to it, nor debar'd me the means of discovering how passionate I was to evince it; That since her Actions so evidently de­monstrated that Truth, I ought to impute her objecting Crimes to my charge, but as a cloud for her own, and consider that to be her inconstan­cy, which she disguis'd under the name of her resentments; That since she was of so volatile a disposition, 'twas better I had made that discovery in the condition I was yet in, than in that which Pacorus was so near embra­cing, since I might consider, that as my felicity, which he could not learn but as his torment; That it was still an Argument she loved me, when she declin'd imposing those miseries on me my desires ambition'd, to confer them on another, whose subsequent troubles I should pleasingly disclose those I had so happily avoided.

These reasons would have appear'd so to any but me, and would too so to me, had I but listen'd to them, which then I did not; for all the while he was speaking, I was so too, sometimes resolving to go and punish Arta­bazus, for having been so far from hindring his Sisters inconstancy, that he sollicited and provoked it; but then the reflection on the greatness of the Sin, hinder'd me from acting it, especially too when that reflection was fortify'd by that on his quality, which made it a greater injustice not to act for the safety of his Subjects in general, than to do it for any one of them in particular, so that I had no just cause to be offended with him, for ha­ving of two evils elected the least. My fury not finding a fit object in [Page 341] him, I began to contemplate Pacorus as one, who was not only the cause of Altezeera's inconstancy, but the continuer of it, and whose destruction would both revenge me on him and her. But then the reflection on the occasion of his Sin, appear'd a sufficient Apology for it, and knowing how impossible 'twas to see, and not love Altezeera, in the very necessity of his fault,; besides, by services and engagements, she could not be more mine, than upon both those scores she was Pacorus's; and yet I had been so un­just, as to sollicit her for Artavasdes, and therefore 'twere to be more so, to punish that in another, which I practic'd in my felf; that she was only mine by the first grant, and his by the last, which in all concessions of Love is the bindingst Title; and lastly that I ow'd a life unto him, which till I had repaid, I was his Debtor, and therefore should not be his Mur­therer.

Whil'st my Reason and my Passion were thus making War against each other, Evaxes, who still apprehended the last of them would fling me in­to some strange Crime, and that my continuance where I was, might into a proportionate danger, (all the Guards in the Castle being Parthians) he conjur'd me so passionately to retire to an Apartment he had provided for me, and there establilsh my resolutions, when my resentments were so quali­fi'd, as not to silence the dictates of my reason, that at last by following, rather than by promise, I obey'd him, who led me by a stolen passage to my Chamber, not meeting any one by the way, which though we had, I am confident I had not been discover'd, if at least I had been as unknowable to all, as I was to my [...]lf. There I told Falintus, and Philanax, what had happen'd, and there 'twas that Evaxes repeating those reasons my rage hin­der'd me from hearing, (which too were strengthen'd by many others as powerful from Falintus) I determin'd the next morning as an evincement of their operation, to retire into some solitude, and there spend as much time as the banishing Altezeera from my heart, would take up, whose influ­ence there was not already a little eclips'd, since I could form a resolution of extinguishing it.

This Declaration prov'd as pleasing to them, as that which created it, was the contrary to me; but they having retir'd themselves, I past the night in such confused thoughts, that it had been difficult to have collected any thing from them, but that they were the productions of an exorbitant di­ [...]emper. The day no sooner appear'd, than telling Falintus and Evaxes, whither I intended to go the next night, and having commanded Philanax to follow me, as soon as he had learnt from them, whether my being in Ar­menia, and my last Action were discover'd, how they were both relish'd, and whether I might safely demand justice of Artabazus for Anexander's Mur­ther, that in the certainty of being deny'd it, I might thereby act it myself, immediately (before the Court was up) I took Horse, and was accompa­ny'd out of the Castle by Evaxes, (who for a long while made no scru­ples to trust me alone, being so newly recover'd from a despair, whose ef­fects were yet somewhat visible in my face; but having secur'd his jealou­sies by many vows, and by the improbability of my so much contributing to my Enemies triumphs, I finally took leave of him, and had not Travel'd above an hundred Furlongs, when coming into a Wood at the extremity of a great Plain, I was stop'd by a violent Cry behind me, which turning about to learn the cause of, I saw the man that utter'd it, come running to­wards me, as fast as his Horse could carry him; as soon as he came near me, he drew his Sword, and bade me defend my self, if my Crimes had not di­vested [Page 342] me of the Courage to justifie them: This Declaration, though it much surpriz'd me, yet I did not near so much as the knowledge that 'twas Phanasder which made it; but being confident he mistook me, I prepar'd my self for nothing but to embrace him, and offer him my Sword and Life to join in his revenge; but perceiving he esteem'd himself discharg'd of all other Ceremonies, by having denounc'd the Combat, I cry'd out to him, hold Phanasder 'tis Artavasdes speaks to you. 'Tis he ( Phanasder briskly reply'd) that I seek, and who to his other Triumphs must add that of my Life, or in the loss of his, I must repair my wrongs.

Oh gods! (I answer'd) if my Death could be but as great a satisfacti­on to Phanasder, as to me, he would oblige us both in acting it; but since such a satisfaction cannot be perfected without as great a Crime, let me un­derstand first wherein you esteem me guilty; for if I do not so entirely vindicate Artavasdes, that you must acknowledge Phanasder criminal, for having thought him so, I will employ my Sword, not to resist, but execute your Revenge. If thy Crimes (said Phanasder) were not too-too-much apparent, I should not have sought this opportunity, which since they are, I will not spend it to shew thee thy sins, but to punish them. Then, having again bid me defend my self, or my submission should not be my Sanctuary, he charg'd me with such fury, that I found by experiment the high chara­cter I alwayes had of his Courage, was but too dangerous a truth. But his rude Reply to an offer he could not have declin'd without seeking to be my Enemy, and the certainty I found, that I must derive my safety not from my innocence, but resistance, though they made me finally draw my Sword, yet I made but use of it to keep him from acting a sin, I know he would in a right understanding as much deplore, as now he was sollicitous to perform; and indeed he prest me so incessantly and vigorously, that had not an unex­pected Accident ended the Combat, my death or his must have done it; for making a furious blow at my head, and I defending it with my Sword, his flew out of his hand in two pieces.

At this Phanasder was not more astonish'd, than I was satisfi'd, which I exprest by telling him, Phanasder, Let that Life I give you, convince you that I am still your Friend. No, no, Artavasdes, (he hastily reply'd) it con­vinces me thou art the contrary; for if thou were not, having loaden me with such sorrows, thou wouldst not deny me their cure, being it is in thy power, therefore I declare, if thou canst be yet concern'd in having me esteem thee my Friend, nothing can be more contributory to it, than to make use of thy Victory, which the more to induce thee to, I protest by all those wrongs thou hast done me, I will leave no place unsearch'd, nor no means unattempted for my revenge. If (said I) my giving you your life af­ter your first declaration, has not convinc'd you that I am your Friend, I hope the doing it after this latter, will sufficiently effect it; for were I con­cern'd in your death, I have not only the power, but the provocation to act it. But, Phanasder, I had rather expose my life to your fury, than secure it by the destruction of what I prefer a thousand times before it, which not only my friendship for you, but even your hatred to me makes me profess, and which I still implore to learn the subject of, that if I do not extinguish your desire of revenge, I may present you wherewithall to act it. Oh gods! (reply'd Phanasder, lifting up his eyes) why do you give unto guilt the same expressions with which innocency should be cloath'd? Then turning them to me, he told me, Artavasdes, thou wilt not then by ending of my tor­ments, shew methou hast some pity, if not friendship for me.

[Page 343] No, (I reply'd) for should I so put a period to yours, I should create in my self greater than I cen extinguish in you. Remember then (he re­ply'd) that there being no way to end those I groan under but by my death, or thine, that denying me the former, thou necessitatest me thereby as much as by thy crimes, unto the latter, which I will perform, though thou shouldst conceal thy self in that heart, which thou valu'st more than thine own; then turning about his Horse, he thrust himself into the Wood full speed, my pity at his condition not being greater, than my ignorance of what created it, I follow'd him, to learn what he had twice deny'd me; and when I found I could not overtake him, I endeavored to make my voice do it, which was so far from retarding, that it did but hasten his course, so that I soon lost sight of him, yet for above four Furlongs I follow'd by the track of his Horse, but then mine began to faint, and suddenly after fell dead under me, by a deep wound he had received in the fight, and which my earnest prosecution of Phanasder made me not observe. 'Twas there­after my heat was mitigated, that I began to find how much the gods took delight to torment me; and after I had a little reflected on those strange Accidents which had arrived me in so short a space, I could not abstain from saying, Great gods! was it not enough misery for the unfortunate Arta­vasdes to lose his Princess, but you must add unto it, the losing of his friend? And were not both those losses sufficient to glutt your hatred, but that you must give me resolution and fortitude to survive them? Ah cruel Powers, did you give me Innocency but by punishing it as Guilt, to change mine into it? And are you so sollicitous to make me blaspheme, that you make Innocence unfortunate, to invite me to it? But (I continu'd, after a short silence) if I have offended you, let the world read my sin in my punish­ment; but since I have not offended either Altezeera, or Phanasder, why would you induce the world to believe I have, by making them my Per­secutors?

'Twas with as many extravagant Reasonings as these that I fed my de­spair, and my rage not permitting me to rest, I found my self out of the Wood, as soon as I remembred I had been in it, and seeing a Village not far off, I went thither, where having hired a Horse, I prosecuted that journey Phanasders strange distemper had interrupted. As soon as I came into my Inn, I found, that Falintus and Philanax (having met with no obstructi­ons) were gotten thither before me, from whom I was informed, that though they could not find by any intelligence they had learnt, that my be­ing in Armenia, nor my having been at Evaxes Castle were known, yet they had cause to believe both were, for Crassolis that morning was retir'd from the Court; neither could they any more discover the cause of his depar­ture, than the place of his retreat, so that Falintus told me, I might be con­fident Artabazus would not deny me justice for my Fathers murther, since Crassolis to think his own guilt, only not my knowledge of it, made him flie, and in that faith he might return; which as soon as he did, then was the time of demanding justice: For the giving of it then, would give me revenge with it; and to implore it now, were absolutely to miss of the lat­ter, by a concession of the former, since to condemn him, were but giving him advice to secure himself.

These Reasons since I could not suspect, either them, or the Author of them, I determined to obey, I then told Falintus, what as unfortunate, as [Page 344] strange an Accident had arrived me with Phanasder, which he admir'd at as much as he was ignorant of the cause, and told me, This morning, Sir, I met him coming from the Princess Theoxcena's Apartment, and with a coun­tenance whose disorder he could not conceal; after he had by some short embraces and expressions congratulated my happy return, he then precipi­tately asked me where you were, for he had some business of high concern to communicate unto you.

I told him, that both Philanax and I, continued at Court, purposely to learn, and send you things of that quality; and that if he were over-harrast with his late journey, and that he would acquaint me with the secret, I would overtake you that night, and stop you till his coming.

To this Phanasder replyed, That he would trust me with his heart, but that the business he had with you, was of a nature which would lose its virtue, if it were delivered you by any but himself, and therefore he pas­sionately conjured me to let him know which way you had took, and to pardon a silence which I could not condemn, when I should be instructed in the cause. I did therefore satisfie both his requests, and 'twas by my infor­mation that he so unfortunately found you out; but could not you, Sir, (continued Falintus) in his passion, collect something which might tell you what created it?

No, (I replyed) though by reiterated intreaties I conjur'd him to tell it me; and with faithful promises, if I were guilty, to contribute to, and not oppose his revenge; but all was in vain: and I could collect nothing but that he was as confident I was criminal, as I am, that I am not. The best part of the night we entertain'd our selves in resembling discourses, which at length I put a period to, by conjuring Falintus to continue about the Court, to en­deavor to learn the cause of Phanasder's change; that though his carriage render'd him not absolutely worthy my care, yet thinking the knowledge of his error would not only punish the Criminal, but restore unto me the gallant Phanasder, I was passionately concerned therein; That he would enquire after Crassolis, and send me constant intelligence to a Solitude near Satala, which I had elected in a great measure by his persuasions and rea­sons, and where I would pass away the reliques of my melancholy and love.

Falintus would have accompany'd me thither, which I absolutely de­clin'd; and then he having as absolutely promised to obey my former re­quests, the next morning we separated our selves, he taking the way to the Court, and I to Thospia, where I intended to visit Lyndesia, before I seclu­ded my self from the World. There that excellent Woman gave me such admirable Reason, for the suppressing of my Passion, that I must havebeen entirely divested of the former, had I not divested my self of the latter; which whil'st I did not (for I shall not scruple to confess, that sometimes I made a start into Love) by the reflection on Lyndesia's reasoning, I acknow­ledged my self void of any, and knowing my self to be so, I excused my fault, in the knowledge of my condition: Neither did she only give me precepts, but example against the assaults of Fortune; and what she would have had me practice in Altezeera's case, she did in herself Anexanders, though in it she found so little reason to fortifie herself with, that perhaps that was the only reason with which she did it; neither did her calmness in so high an essay, appear anything like insensibility, no, it shew'd its cause in its effect, and the gods did in some degree repair her loss, by making it so largely evidence her virtue: I have been (continu'd Artavasdes) some­what the more particular in Lyndesia's character, because her perfections are [Page 345] of a resembling quality, as also to oppose a Maxim as absurd as common, which is the declining the praise of those to whom we have a near relation; whereas those that have not any, can hardly make an exact character; and by this low rule, the chief, if not the only way by which we must attain to the knowledge of a perfection, must be the Argument for not publishing it. I continued two dayes at Thospia with Lyndesia, from whose actions, as well as words, I received that consolation I fear'd she would have needed. The third day I took my leave, and desired her to continue Udozia where I had given her an absolute power, not only as it was a place near which I intended to reside, but being on the frontiers, Ventidius, (whose passion I had not only at large acquainted her with, but made her approve) upon the making his Addresses to Udozia, might not be necessitated to put him­self in any hazard, by coming unaccompanied, or Armenia, by coming with an Army. This Lyndesia having granted, I left Thospia, and in twelve days came to my little retirement, where retaining none but Philanax with me, and two or three servants for necessary uses, I began to make a fierce War against my Passion, and my Sadness, which I found were Enemies easier to be conquered, than extirpated, and like some barbarous people, were in­visible, when any power was extant to oppose them; but when that power appeared no more, they instantly did, and assum'd as high a Sovereignty, as if they had been Conquerors. This made me incessantly continue in Arms, and those I made use of, were the remembrance of the services I had rendered Altezeera of her vows, and of her unconstancy; for which I found so little excuse, that what had given the wrong, I thought would al­so repair it: A thousand times in this resolution I was going to abandon my Solitude, and by a publick undisturbed serenity, evince I rob'd her of so much of her triumph, as that my sorrow compos'd no part thereof; but alas immediately I fancy'd Altezeera in all her charms, and captivating my resolution, with the same eyes with which she had my liberty, with whose influences, my trayterous fancy so conspired, that though I were at too great a distance to receive their real impressions, yet by that false helper I carried still their effects about me. Never man endured those torments the miserable Artavasdes did, and his fate was so particular, that whil'st he yet disputed the Victory, he resented more pregnant sufferings than he could have in the very losing it: And if mine received any intermission, 'twas from the visits of Vdosia, in whose sight and conversation I had some good intervals, which continu'd me in some charity to the Sex, by receiving from one of it the ease of those pains another had made me resent. 'Twas thus for a long while that I languish'd away my time, during which I received frequent and faithful intelligences from the generous Falintus; his first was, that notwithstanding a scrutinous enquiry and search, he could never learn either waht was the cause of Phanasder's change, or what was become of him: That the fair Theoxcena, as Author of, or participater in his dis­contents, had retired herself either absolutely, or conditionally from the world; and that he was as ignorant of the place of her retreat, as of what was the occasion of it: That Altezeera had been solemnly married to the Prince of Parthia, immediately after her arrival in that Kingdom: And that Crassus had lost his Army, and his Life, in a furious Battel against the Parthians, who had been assisted by a visible Divinity, that vanish'd as soon as did the Roman hopes. These three Intelligences were as sensible un­to me, as any others I was capable of; for in the first of them, I lost my friends; in the second, my Mistriss; and in the third, my hopes of reveng­ing or repairing that loss. I will pass over the many sighs and complaints I [Page 346] gave to those accessions of sorrow, to let you know, that the Solitude which Reason could not make me abandon, Friendship did: For I received an ad­vice from Udozia, that Ventidius with an Army (as formidable from the Nation, as the numbers which compos'd it) had already crost the Helles­pont, and was so far advanc'd into the letter Asia, that if intended to see him before he entered Armenia, I could not any longer delay my visit. This Alarm I joyfully receiv'd, and in some degree I was reconcil'd to the gods, who, though they had deny'd me the establishment of my own felicity, had yet blest me with the power of setling my friends. In two dayes I had fitted my self to leave my retirement, which I could not do without some reluctancy, as an acknowledgement of those uninterrupted hours of me­lancholy I had spent in it; my first journey was to Satala, where having formed my Equipage and receiv'd those reiterated assurances from Udozia, which were to settle Ventidius's, and my felicity, I crost the mountain Scor­dicus, which separates Armenia from Cilicia, and in two dayes after came to Tharsus, the Metropolis of that Province, where Ventidius then lay; who having Advertisement of my Arrival, drew out all his Army (which con­sisted of 50000 natural Italians) into a large Plain on the East-side of the City, where he receiv'd me with a million of Embraces at the head of them, and where I found nothing more worthy admiration than the For­ces, but their General. 'Twas at this first meeting (after I had saluted all the Roman Tribunes) and as we were riding to Tharsus, that he told me: If (my dear Artavasdes) I have so long abstained from acknowledging Udozia's victory at her feet, 'twas only to evince my respect equal to my Passion, and not to declare my self her Subject, till I presented her with an Army that might make those so by her commands, which were unworthy to be so by her sight: The gods know how just this duty is, by esteeming it fitter to abandon their Rome in Crassus's defeat, than that I should be any longer suspended from paying it: Yes (my Artavasdes) I am now come to implore that Assistance you have so generously promis'd me, and by which if I am victorious, I shall no more fear any other Conquests, than desire them. He told me many as passionate words as these, and deliver'd them in an Accent which was so full of grace and concern, that I easily per­ceived what inspir'd them, and from whence they came. Ventidius had no sooner ended speaking, than I told him: If after those miseries the cruel gods have impos'd on me, I have found sufficient fortitude to outlive them, I deriv'd it principally, perhaps intirely, from my concerns in the generous Ventidius; and if since my torments began I have relish'd any thing of joy, I attest the gods, 'twas only by reflecting on my success for him, which has been as proportionate to my desires, as to his. Yes (my Ventidius) Vdo­zia sets that value on you which you have ambitioned, and if by my imper­fect character she has assum'd such an esteem of you, judge then what it will rise unto, when she sees your person, and has heard the charms of your con­versation? Ah Artavasdes, (said Ventidius) I apprehend you have been so much more my Friend than Nature and Education has, that to continue in the blessing of her esteem, I must live in it by your character, and to continue that felicity, I must deny my self the other of seeing her. If this (I reply'd) be your fears, you have not many hours Travel to clear them; but certainly you could not have so good an opinion of Udozia, if you had so ill an one of her judgment. 'Twas in such discourses as these that we entertain'd one another till our entring into Tharsus, where that necessary formal Civility for awhile deny'd us a privacy, which, as soon as we enjoy'd, Ventidius employ'd a part of it, to tell me those admirable vicissitudes of [Page 347] the Roman State, in the victories and death of Iulius Caesar; which latter, though the Conspirators believ'd would either have restor'd the Roman li­berty, or made them Lords of it, yet they had fail'd of both, and the event did manifest there was more difficulty in making the Romans assume their freedom, than there had been in making them lay it down. That the gods had evinc'd how they disrelish'd the spilling of that great Mans Blood, not only by depriving the Actors in it of that end they promis'd themselves, but by bringing all those to an untimely death, which had brought Caesar to one.

He further acquainted me, how that after the defeat and death of Crassus, he found little opposition to be General in his stead, and as lit­tle to raise an Army to revenge the Roman honour and loss; and though the Command was of a quality which might have rais'd desires of posses­sing it in the most recluse spirits, yet he had only sought and embrac'd it, but to have a handsomer way to make his Addresses, and a more powerful one, to revenge my wrongs; That therefore he had procur'd from Mark Anthony, Octavius Caesar, and Lepidus (who then compos'd the second Tri­umvirate) a full liberty not only to revenge on Artabazus the violating of that League Anexander had concluded with the people of Rome, but also if he esteem'd it requisite, to make that Revenge a dethroning of him, and establishing in his room such an Armenian Prince, as he was confident would have honesty enough to value that virtue above interest: That this power he had the more easily obtain'd, because the Princess Altezeera by marrying Pacorus, had declar'd herself as much an Enemy to Rome, as to me; and be­ing the apparent Successor of Armenia, the Senate were justly jealous of uniting that Crown with the Parthian: That too he had the earnestlier ambition'd this, because that forfeiture of Artabazus's gave me a right to Armenia by my birth, which a Roman Army would so confirm, that he would find in injuring Artavasdes, he had as much wrong'd his interest, as his ho­nesty.

The gods forbid (I reply'd, interrupting him) that you should em­ploy your Arms so unjustly, and that I should for my Kings crimes, do any thing but lament them; besides (generous Ventidius) had Artabazus for­feited his right (which I know he cannot, being answerable for his Actions to none but the gods) yet still the Princess Altezeera has a Title as firm, as my resolution not to oppose it: For to be Wife to Pacorus, and Friend to Rome, are not inconsistent; and we have examples, that the Conjugal and Regal rights, are not so incompatible, but they may jointly subsist. But were they not, I am so far from divesting her of her Empire, that had I that of the World, I would prostrate it, as I did my Liberty at her feet, and esteem the Title of her Subject, and the visible effects of so transcendent a Virtue and Government, a far higher satisfaction, than to take the Reins of it into my own hands: That since I had neither the power nor the will any other way to revenge my self on the fair Altezeera, than by manifesting my inno­cency, I was confident the declining so large an Empire to maintain her right after such insensible injuries, would fully do it; and the knowledge of her fault, would in some degree repair it.

I further implor'd Ventidius, That the Armenians for Udozia's sake, might avoid a storm, which perhaps their King had deservedly drawn upon them; and that the greater his Title was to their destruction, the greater would that mercy appear which declin'd acting it. I too well observe ( Ventidius re­ply'd) that you are born under a Monarchy, by giving Sanctuary to the of­fence, in the Title of the Offender, and making his quality annih [...]late his [Page 348] crimes, which aggravates them: for faults in Kings are more unpardon­able than in others, since they have so great influence over all, and since those can hardly punish offences which commit them. We that are Ro­mans allow no Sanctuary but to Virtue, and esteem it too troublesome a respect to put the Gods to punish, what we our selves have the Power: Besides, their goodness is so transcendent, that 'tis often an invitation to Princes and Magistrates to relie on it; but they seldom do err when the punishment and the sin are inseparable, and when those they wrong are to be their Judges. That Kings do publish they are to give an accompt of their actions to none but the Gods, is not a greater Tyranny in them, than imbecility in such as either believe it, or grant it. The giving them that Power, is to encourage them to be Tyrants, by having no Obliga­tion on them not to be so, but what they impose on themselves; Where­as we Romans, though we leave our Governours a latitude to shew they are virtuous, yet we also leave our selves one to punish them, if they prove otherwise; and indeed wise men will avoid such temptations, and perhaps few that are so will give it them: Besides, you that subject your selves to a successive Monarchy, are tyed to your Rulers as to your Fate, you must submit to the bad as well as to the good; whereas we are con­fin'd to ours but as to our Cloaths, if they are sullied, unfit, or worn out, we make our selves new ones: You at best have but the bare word of a Woman for your Governours, we the word of Virtue for ours: You by making Blood a sufficient Title to Rule, invite them to dulness and vice; We by making Desert the way unto it, necessitate them to Virtue and Merit: You by trusting the Power to one, run a hazard which we avoid; for there needs but imbecility, or corruption in one, to ruine all; but we trusting to divers, many a one must be weak, and perfidious, to create our misfortunes; and none being absolute, 'tis Reason, and not Power, which forms our results and actions. To omit many other Pre­eminencies, Commonwealths are not subject to Personal Vices, as Lust, Avarice, Luxury, Inconstancy and Cruelty. That there is (I reply'd) a necessity of a Supreme Power in all Governments, to whom final appeals and resolutions are to be left, (to avoid perpetual disputes and uncer­tainties) is not more true, than that Power is absolutely best invested in a Monarch; which to evince, I shall desire you but to reflect on the greatest States and Empires that were, or are, and you shall find, 'twas from the virtue of one Man they had their Beginning or Laws. Moses made those of the Jews; Lycurgus those of Sparta; Solon those of Athens, (though indeed of short duration;) Nimrod the Empire of Babylon; Ar­saces that of the Parthians; Alexander that of the Grecians; Cyrus that of the Persians; and to omit many others, Romulus that of Rome; and 'tis a Maxim as general as true, That what creates, is the best of perfect and preserve. Neither when Monarchy was banisht from Rome, was there any mutation in the Monarchical Laws, but the change of perpetual Kings into annual Consuls: 'Tis too, no small manifestation that Monar­chy is the best Form, seeing 'tis the Government of Heaven: Besides, that which is the most desirable and seldomest found in Aristocracies, Oligar­chies, and Democracies, is almost inseparable from Monarchy, which is, an internal quiet that proceeds from a general submission to one Autho­rity, which is that, which gives a power and ability to defend or enlarge a State; whereas in Republicks the greatest and commonest aim is to make many an Individual what a King is already; or else eternal differences between the Nobility and People, or among each other, if either has [Page 349] supprest the other: Besides, in a Commonwealth a Man is seldom famous without Envy, nor lov'd without Fear, those very actions which evince him to be capable of serving a State, rendering it dangerous for that State to be served by him; so that to be esteemed well, one must not deserve too well, and a great Merit is as usual a Title to Ruine or Banishment, as it ought to be to Reward. But in Monarchies, the Prince is above those fears, and consequently not only leaves a latitude, but gives an invitation to the highest Merits and Actio [...]s, by rendring them acceptable, and not dangerous duties: It is evident also that there ought to be a Supreme above the Law, for what invitation have those to preserve That, with­out which they can neither commit an offence, nor deserve a punishment? whereas a Monarch, besides the Obligation of Trust, the Laws are not only that which gives him the Power, but that too which maintains him in it, by being as it were his Guard, in making Death the Reward of all attempts against his Person or Authority; so that he is likelier to preserve the Laws which receives a benefit by them, than he which can receive no prejudice but from them; and to give the Power to those who must live under it, is in effect to invite them to favour themselves; to let the Peo­ple too be Judges whether the Dispencers of the Law do it equally, is to give them a latitude to destroy those Laws which should govern them; since the greater part of People conclude the less, and the greater part of all Nations are the worst. Besides, it makes a Judge apprehensive to di­stribute the Laws without partiality, when those he gives his Sentence upon, are those who must pronounce his, and so, often, out of hope of a mutual lenity, mutually prove unjust. But it may be objected, The People will not repine at the executing those Laws to which they have assented, or which they themselves have constituted. To this I answer, Those Laws which are propos'd, are commonly so equal in themselves, that none can decline his assent unto them, without publishing he intends to violate them, which were an antedated folly no rational Creature would be guilty of; and those too, which give their Votes to the fra­ming of Laws, are then commonly clear of those crimes, which those Laws are made against; so that what they assent unto a first out of shame, or innocence, when yet they incur the penalty of those Institutions, they wish they had never been made; and indeed the People are far better pleas'd to make severe Laws, than to have them observ'd; since the first of these is an excellent demonstration of their goodness, and their unal­terable resolution of continuing it; and in the last, they cannot divest themselves of Nature, which violently inclines all men to a self-preserva­tion, as the highest, and first principle. To let the Supreme Trustees of the People be subject to be call'd unto accompt, is the certain'st way to make them Tyrants, since the apprehension of punishment induces all Men to act what may secure them from it; and if they have done any thing amiss, either by design, frailty or ignorance, it invites them to invest them­selves with a Power which may defend them from Ruine, and thereby, the acting of one Injustice, renders the acting of a greater necessary; as Thieves, who out of apprehension of having their Theft reveal'd and punisht, add unto it Murther; and as your Catiline, who told his Soul­diers, That the Ills they had done, could not be secur'd but by acting greater: Whereas the Monach being above those apprehensions, if he commit a fault, he needs not run into that necessary wickedness, but is rather oblig'd by so noble a priviledge, to repair it by some generous actions, which may render him worthy of it. Besides, 'tis seldom that a [Page 350] Commonwealth is grateful to a deserving Man, which is not only a large de­terring of any from being so, but also as large an invitation if he be so, to pay himself; was there ever a People more beholding to Men, than the Romans were to Camillus, and Publius Cornelius Scipio; the first for resto­ring the Roman State to the Roman People, when not only in all probabi­lity he might have made himself Lord of it, but even when they were so low reduced, that there were hardly enough Senators left to give him a Commission to serve them, and when he had been us'd at a rate, which might have clouded his Ambition with the name of a just Revenge: And the last of these, for not only preserving the Roman State, but by adding to it as great a one; yet their returns were such, that if a Stranger had but known their usage, and not their actions, he would have esteem'd them the destroyers, not the restorers of their Countrey. These two are not the only, though the most famous examples; Marcus Livins, Caius Martius Co­riolanus, Lucius Amilius, the Asiatick Scipio, and such a vast Catalogue of o­thers, that 'twere much the more difficult task to name who they were un­grateful unto, than to whom they were not. Neither is this Vice the appro­ate one to the Republick of Rome, but common to that Government. The Syracusians were the like to Dion, and Hermocrates; The Spartans to Agis, and part of his Family; and, as some have thought, to Lycurgus; The [...]a­cedemonians to Pansanius his first Virtues, and Victories; which, it may be, made him think, Vice was the Virtue, by their ingratitude to the latter; and the Athenians to Themistocles, Pericles, Cimon, Alcibiades, Aristides, Phocion and Miltiades.

Doubtless the example of these, inspir'd Marius and Sylla with those designs of rewarding themselves, and of making the People grateful against their wills. And what King form Romulus to Lucius Tarquin, did ever spill so much Roman blood, and fill'd Rome with such disorders, as those two did in disputing for that Title: Neither did all the Kings empty so many Roman veins to maintain their name, as Caesar did to restore it, and Pompey to hinder it. Is it not then irrational to spend more in resisting Monarchy, than can be lost by it? The same Caesar doth both wayes evince this truth, for till he won the Crown, the storms were not greater, than the calms af­ter it. Besides, what you told me of the Romans being now under a Triple Monarchy (for so I account the Triumvirat) palpably manifests, that that Form of Government they have found by experience is the most perfect; for the Conspirators by killing of Caesar, so clearly left them their voices, that their election of Monarchy evinces 'tis their choice, and not their con­straint. Their Banishment of the Tarquins, was evidently as much an action of choler, as this of premeditation, so that I may say, they did then but lose their way into Aristocracy. If too the Roman actions are to be credited before their professions, we find they are absolutely convinc'd, that the Go­vernment of One is the best; for seldom was there any thing of danger in the Commonwealth, but they immediately created a Dictator, who is an absolute Monarch for the time being, and to whom the very Senate and People, do absolutely resign themselves, as appears by Camillus, who com­ing to relieve Rome, as she had agreed for, and was paying for his Li­berty to Brennus King of the Gaules, he brake off the Bargain; and that barbarous Prince taxing him for violating an Agreement made by his Superiors: He reply'd, That being Dictator, he had none but the gods, and acted accordingly; and to evince 'twas the Truth, and not the Success, which made the Romans approve of Camillus's Reply, Quintus Cincinnatus when Dictator, in that Quality, not only [Page 351] degraded Minutius from his Consulship, but constrains him to be a Lieu­tenant over those Legions, the Equians had worsted under his command. Five times was that great Camillus in resembling dangers, created Dictator, and I believe his, and Cincinnatus's happy conduct, gave the people no ill relish of Monarchical Government. The Military Tribunes, and Decem­virs, though instituted by the people, were of no constant, or long durati­on, as alwayes finding that Government which was farthest from Monar­chy, the most confus'd; this made the Consulary Dignity, and Dictator­ship, of longest continuance. Two illustrations of this are very pregnant; the first was in the institution of the Dictatorship, which proceeded from the revolt of the Veians, and Fidenates, who having cut in pieces a Colo­ny of the Romans, and they desiring revenge, created four Tribunes with Consular Authority, and sent three of them to this War, who through Am­bition and Variance, did nothing considerable, but that they did nothing which was so; upon which, the Romans finding the error of this Demo­cratical Generalship, immediately created Mamercus Dictator, who almost as immediately revenged their losses and wrongs; the other is, of Quintus and Agrippa, who being both sent against the Equians, the latter was [...]o much a Friend to Truth above Ambition, that he desir'd Quintus might go alone, since no great Affairs could ever be perform'd, without the Sovereign Au­thority were invested in one: And if you observe it, Rome never obtain'd such Victories as under a single General, and never receiv'd such losses as un­der a plural; which fi [...]st as clearly appears, besides those famous examples of Camillus and Scipio, in Posthumius at the Battel of Regillus, in Cincinna­tus, in Caesar, and in Pompey, who both triumph'd over Europe, Asia and Africk; the latter also being chosen single to defend the Roman liberty, when Consuls were not only in being, but in Authority; as the last does, in the examples of Fabius the Great and Minutius, in Varro and Paulus Emi­lius, at that fatal Battel of Cannes, in Marcellus & Crispinus, in Gellius & Lentu­lus; and to omit many others, so recently in Brutus and Cassius; neither has this been a particular fate to the Roman State, but to all others who have practic'd the like Discipline; as the Carthaginians, when Hanno and Bo­milcar commanded against the Tyrant Agathocles; to Asdrubal and Sy­phax, when they commanded against Scipio; to the Athenians in the Sici­lian War, first under Nicias and Alcibiades, who did nothing jointly, and all things asunder (as in discourse, two Negatives make one Affirmative, so in War two good Generals makes one ill one) afterwards in the same Coun­trey under Nicias and Demosthenes; and the State of Athens obtaining that famous Victory of Marathon, must not be attributed to the ten Gene­rals, but to the ten Generals having the judgment which the Athenians wanted, of giving the sole power to the only Miltiades. The same misfor­tune attended Antiochus's Fleet, when jointly commanded by Polinus and Hannibal, against the Romans, which latter found sufficiently the obstructi­on of a Commonwealth, the Hannoan Faction in Carthage fighting against him, more than the Romans in Italy; and had he been King of Carthage, he had doubtless been the like of Rome; so that if Rome affect an Aristo­cracy, 'tis perhaps more out of Gratitude than Reason, neither can I omit (to illustrate what I affirm) two remarkable Adventures: The first, when the Latins came to re-invest Lucius Tarquin, in his Thronne, the Romans be­lieving nothing could oppose a Monarch, but a Monarchical General, gave the sole command of that great day to Posthumius, who gave them the Victory: The other was, when Torquatus and Decius were Consuls, and fought a furious Battel against the same People, the latter to obtain the [Page 352] Victory, devoted himself to a voluntary death, as if the gods had destin'd it to a Monarchical Generalship, and deny'd it to a Democratical. Besides, in Commonwealths, the giving of none the Superiority, gives all a desire of it, and makes that every ones hope, by being no bodies possession; so that those Abilities and Courages which in a Monarchy manifest and vent themselves, for the increasing the State, in other Governments, are employ'd to possess it; I confess indeed that there must be many weak or perfidious, to ruine a Commonwealth, but then there needs but one able and honest to preserve a Kingdom; which proves, that to make your happiness, you must have many blest with those virtues, which one needs but have, to make ours; so that, as much as 'tis more likely to have one able and honest man than many, so much 'tis more likely that Monarchy should be a better Government than a Republick. Neither are Commonwealths free from personal faults, for never was any King more cruel, avaritious, or un­constant, than Athens and Carthage; and though the Body of the People are exempt from some particular Vices, only because they are inconsistent with many, and inherent to one, or perhaps their not knowing them, or not having the power and means to act them, yet those that govern, being par­ticulars, are not at all free from them; and that which was the pretence of depressing Monarchy in Rome, was the real cause of depressing the Decem­virs, for 'twas but the Son of the King acted the Rape on Lucretia; but 'twas Appius Clodius in person, and a Decemvir that would have acted that of Virginia, had not her death reliev'd her misfortune. It was (doubtless) too, the justice of the gods to shew the People that sin in a Governor, which they had so severely punish'd but in a Governors son. As to our being necessitated to take a womans word for our Kings, if there be any misfor­tune in it, you must except not against us, but the gods, who have made them witnesses in their own Cause; yet that great Trust invites them to a proportionate virtue, and 'tis also the onely proof you have at Rome, of that so ador'd Title of Patrician.