{Print edition page number: 136}

Rivall Friendship

THE FIRST PART

The Fourth Book

As Diomed came from Cydarius he met Phasellus who went with him to their owne Tent; where they had not been long ere they fell into discourse concerning Cydarius and Clazomena; whereupon Phasellus began again highly to applaud her Picture.

Indeed (said Diomed) if the substance did but equall the shaddow (I must confess) that Princess was a very lovely person; but yet methinks Phasellus, you express’t in the Kings Tent, too deep a sense of her beauty, for one who is a profess’d adorer of another; and in my opinion, in seeking to do Justice to Cydarius’s Mistress, you have been highly injurious to your owne. I have known some men (pursu’d he) whose Mistresses have been none of the most charming Beautys that ever were beheld, yet to maintain that none on earth were comparable to [fol. 52^v] them; and rather loose their lives then suffer so great a dishonour to be done to the Object of their passion, as for any other to be preferr’d before them: and therefore I cannot but strangly admire, that you, who have profess’t so violent a passion for Artabella should think any comparable to her, or rather more to be admir’d then she; as you seem’d to inferre, when you made a publick declaration, that you believ’d the Scythian Princess to be rather a Goddess then a mortall Creature. I will not deny, but she was rarely hansome; but were she living, she must pardon me if I think Artabella farre excells her, though I am not her servant as you are, and therefore not oblig’d to have altogether so good an opinion of her as you ought to have.

But since I am your Friend (Phasellus) I must not flatter you, but tell you, this is not the first time I have found you declining in those accustomed respects you owe her whom you have vow’d eternally to adore: for I have observ’d, you very seldome write to her to assure her of the continuance of your fidelity, and passion; though you cannot but know, that all the confirmations you can give her of it, are no more then what is necessary to comfort her in your absence.

Oh heavens, had I that priveledge of writing to my adored Oriana, how joyfully would I embrace all opportunities, to testifie to her the sincerity, and greatness of my love; but you that have that favour slight it: or if you do write, if your Letters in my absence were no more obliging then that you wrote her since my returne, she has more reason to complain of your coldness, and indifference then receive any satisfaction from them. But this is not the onely observation I have made of your change, but have by a hundred severall passages found a strang alteration in you of late; and such an indifferency as I cannot but strangly wonder{137} at: for questionless to a faithfull Lover there cannot be a more afflicting discontent, next to the death, or inconstancy of her he loves, then to be absent from her: yet this misfortune great as it is, you are so little concern’d for, that I never heare you complain of it, or once so much as wish the War were ended, that you might again enjoy the sight of a person who ought to be most deare to you. Did I not know you had not seen the face of any Woman since we left Persia, I should then attribute your alteration to Infidelity; and conclude that some new Object had banish’d the image of your absent Mistress out of your heart; but since I cannot think your change proceeds from that cause, I know not what to impute it too: speak then Phasellus, and be ingenious, and let me know what I ought to think of you; and whether I must regard you as an Infidell, or as an unconstant person who can love no longer then whilest in sight.

All the while Diomed was speaking, Phasellus seem’d much perplex’t by his often change of colour; for sometimes (though he strove all he could to hide the disorder of his mind) shame would appeare, painting his Face with blushes; then anon a paler colour would procla^i^me him guilty of some concealed crime: but having a little compos’d his disorder’d spirits, he assum’d a more serious Countenance, and looking confidently on Diomed. If I were guilty of perfidiousness (repli’d he) on^r^^[1] inconstancy, you had reason my generous Friend to account me the basest man alive; [fol. 53^r] but since (as you say) I have not seen any one that could be capable of making me so, I think protestations of my innocence needless. I know not what you have observ’d in me that should make you suspect such an alteration in me as you fancy, but for my owne part I find none in my selfe. As for those Objections you make, I shall in a few words answere them; and as to the manner of my writing I account it rather folly then affection to express so much fond dotage as many Lovers use in expressing their affection to their Mistresses, especially when I have such unquestionable demonstrations of a reciprocall esteeme. And as to my absence which you think me so insensible of, I protest sincerely it has been, the greatest trouble I ever resented ^felt^,^[2] but seeing tis vain to complaine of what I must of necessity suffer, methinks you should rather commend my patience, then censure my moderation: but I confess, I should be much more impatient then I am, were I not most certaine of the affection of Artabella, which is so high a felicity, that I should feare if I were so ungratfull as to repine at a short absence, I might provoke the Gods to deprive me of that happiness which I can never prize enough.

Tis very well Phasellus (said Diomed not being able to let him go on) tis very well you are become so wise, as to love with so much discretion; but let me tell you, since you are arrived at this height of perfection, I question not but you{138} will soon grow to indifferency, and at last to scorne. Ah poor unhappie Princess (pursu’d he) how noble a passion have you thrown away, on one unworthy of it.

Phasellus perceiving by Diomed’s manner of speaking, that he was rather incensed then satisfi’d with his answere; for a while stood silent as it were to consider whether whether he had best acknowledge his fault, or still endeavour to conceale it. But at last (as it seem’d) he resolv’d upon the first. If (said he) an ingenuous confession may extenuate my fault, I will declare that which I had rather dy then acknowledge to you, since I feare I shall thereby merit your ill opinion; but if you will look on my offence with an eye of friendship, certainly you will find more cause to pitty, then to pass too severe a sentence sen censure on my weakness, since I have done as much as I am able to keep my self from being guilty of it. The truth is, you had reason to say, Artabella has thrown away her love on one unworthy of it, for so I am, the most of any one that lives; for I must acknowledge (though I cannot do it, but with abundance of shame) that I am of so strang a disposition, that tis absolutely impossible for me to love in absence, with that passion as I do when ^the^ object of my love is present. I confess I had great hopes that so much beauty, as that Princess is owner of, would have been powerfull enough to keep that fickle heart her Prisoner, which my owne reason, no less then her Charmes rendred her Captive: Yet I am still in hopes, that this rebellious Slave which against my reason and desire has broke its strongest Chaine (and thereby almost reassum’d its former liberty) will no sooner look on those eyes which conquer’d me, but they will make their victory more perfect, and tye my Fetters [fol. 53^v] more fast then ever; for thus much I can say in my justification, and say truly, that though I am a little unconstant, I am not in the least perfidious: for Artabella is still the person I love above all others, and ever shall; for I am resolv’d, if when I see her, I cannot put on my Chaines again, I’le weare no others, and abhorre my self for my inconstancy more then she can do. And now, seeing I have with all sincerity disclos’d to you my frailty, which I do more condemne my self for then you can, I hope you will judge favourably of my weakness, which I have not voluntarily submitted (but most unwillingly) submitted too.

I know not (repli’d Diomed) what difference you can make between Inconstancy, and Infidelity; but for my part I know not how to distinguish the one from the other; for certainly tis an undeniable Maxime, that he that can be guilty of the one, may be so of the other as well, for he that can without any reason, or just occation cease to love, or grow indifferent in his passion to a person who never gave him the least cause for it, and such a one as merits more love then the perfectest Lover is capable of bestowing; may much more easily, and with a better pretence love another, if at any time he find one more worthy of his affection then his late Mistress was. And therefore (Phasellus) I should sooner excuse you if some greater Beauty, or a Lady of more transcendant excellencies then Artabella is Mistress of, had ravish’d your heart from her, then thus unworthily to abandon,{139} and forget her, when you have nothing to alleage for your injustice, but your owne phantasticall humour.

Alass, how poor is that pretence to which you have recourse for your vindication, in pleading your naturall inclination to inconstancy; but if you were indu’d with that vertue which I really thought you were, when I gave you the precedency of all others in my esteeme, and Friendship, how easily might you overcome all such ill inclinations; for what good does our Vertue do us, if we make not use of it to vanquish our vices, whether those which we have contracted by custome, or those whereto we are prone by nature: but since I see you can be capable of two such detestable Crimes, as a base Inconstancy, and a most horrid Ingratitude to your Mistress, meerly out of a fantasticall fancy, you may as well become guilty of infidelity to your Friend, if the humour take you: for seeing those promises you so oft repeated to Artabella of an eternall affection, and an inviolable constancy, cannot engage you to the performance of them, without question you may dispence as well, nay more easily, with all those obligations you have to me: therefore resolve to tye on again your fetters which were so glorious, and advantagious to you, and be sure you fasten them so, as nothing (but the irresistable power of Death) may ere unloose them, or renounce your interest in my Friendship and utterly discla^i^me all title to it, or I must to yours: for I declare I nether neither can, nor will be a Friend to any one, that is not so to Vertue. I excus’d your unjust Jealousie, because I thought it might arise from the violence of your passion; but I cannot excuse, much less pardon this fickle humour in you, which carries with it no excuse. No Phasellus, you must repent your folly, [fol. 54^r] and so repent it, as you may never be guilty of the like, or believe it I shall repent I ever was your Friend, or did esteeme you mine: and till I am very well assur’d of your amendment you must not take it ill, if I live with you after another manner then hitherto I have done, and shun your Company as much as I have hitherto desir’d it, lest your Crime become contagious, and infect me too.

Diomed stay’d not for his answere, but went from thence, immediatly to the King: as he was going, he was met by one of his servants, who told him Achemenes was just then in consultation concerning the taking of Issedon; and had sent for him to be present at the councell, wherein there were divers debates: some were of opinion it were best to tyre Oruntus out by a long siege; others, on the contrary affirm’d it was much better to take it by storme, of which opinion Diomed was; for as he said, though there was more difficulty to winn the Citie by storming it, then to take it by famine, yet there was the more glory in it: and that (said he) is an invitation to noble spirits to attempt the most hazardous enterprizes.

To this opinion the King adhear’d, as carrying the greatest probability of put^t^ing the speediest end to the War, which he ardently wish’d: for, being as he was then somewhat advanced in yeares, he desir’d, rather to end his dayes in the sweet calmes of Peace, then in the rough, and boisterous Stormes of War. But when Achemenes had declar’d himself, the discenting Partie compli’d with those whom they before oppos’d; acknowledging there was now a necessity of{140} that, which some few minutes before they thought not convenient: for there came intelligence of a very considerable supply that was coming to relieve Issedon, from the Tauro-Scithies, which of all the other Scythians were accounted the most valiant, and the best Archers. This newes confirm’d the King in his resolve, knowing this recruit would retard his conquest; which to prevent, it was concluded, that the next night all the souldiers, and Officers according to their severall commands, should be in a readiness to assault Issedon; onely 10000 were drawn out to march along with Diomed (who was to command them) to meet the approaching Forces, and fight them in case they proceeded in their march. They being not above six days march from the City, Diomed would make no delay; but having drawne out his men, immediatly departed.

The ensuing night all the Officers (having receiv’d their orders) put their men in a readiness to begin the assault when ever the word was given. Barsarnes who commanded the Susianianses, and the Bactrians gave the first onset on the Backside of the City; but were soon repell’d by a shower of Arrows which were power’d [poured] downe upon them as thick as Hailestones, which forced them to make a little retreat; but t’was onely to returne with the greater force. But for all the valour of Barsarnes and his followers, it was more then five houres ere they could approch the Walls so as to plant their Ingins of battery, but whilst they were so busily employ’d on that side, Achemenes was not idle on the other; for though his yeares, and Dignity, might have dispenced [fol.54^v] with him from acting in his owne Person, yet would he not be perswaded to be a spectator onely, of those dangers his subjects underwent.

Phasellus fought on that side the King was on, and to give him the praise he merited, he behav’d himself with abundance of gallantry: he was the first that fastned a scalling Ladder to the Wall, though not without a manifest hazard of his life; which he was many times in danger of loosing: but at last, inspight of all opposition he planted a Persian Standerd on the Walls; he was soon follow’d by many others, which made way for other Achemenes to ascend in safty: but Fate had otherways decreed it, for just as he came to the top of the Wall, he was mortally wounded in the Eye with an Arrowe: a rumour of the Kings danger being presently spread abroad struck such a damp upon the Persians courages, that they would no longer pursue the taking [of] Issedon, but sounded a retreat ^to^ carry off their wounded Soveraigne, in whose misfortune each man had a part.

When the Chirurgions had search’d his Wounds, their Looks spake the little hopes they had of his life; but yet, they declar’d they could give no certain Judgment till the next dressing, when they open’d it again it seem’d so much better then they expected, that it put them in some hopes: but the Eye being the most tender, and sensible part of the body; the pain was so extreame, that what with the violence of that, and want of sleep, it brought him into a high feavour; which meeting with a body of no very strong constitution, and thereby unable to resist the violence of the Distemper, it was impossible he could continue many dayes, though neither his Chirurgions, nor Phisicians wanted either{141} skill or desire to recover him, had it been in the power of Art to work his cure. But whilst he lay in this condition he had yet this satisfaction to know himself before his death an absolute Conquerour of Scythia; for he had certain Intelligence that Diomed had fought the enemy, and won the Field with an inconsiderable loss as to his men, though with the hazard of his owne life; being very dangerously wounded: in somuch, as he was fain to be carri’d to a little Village not far from the Place where they fought, uncapable of stiring a long time, if he did at all recover: but though he could not come himselfe, he was sending Oruntus (whom he had taken Prisoner) to the King, as the chiefe Trophie of his Victory: but the King seem’d rather to grieve, then rejoyce at the newes; for when he had heard it, he sighing said, the Victory was bought too deare, if Diomed’s life must be the price of it: declaring, it would be more trouble to him to loose Diomed, then rejoyce him to win Scythia.

Presently after the Chyrurgions came in to dress his Wound, but when they had open’d it, they soon chang’d their feare of his cure, into an absolute dispaire of it: he finding by the dejected countenances of all that were about him, something of a more then ordinary feare, commanded the Chyrurgions upon their alleigiance to tell him [fol.55^r] truly whether there was any hopes of his life. Having receiv’d such a Command they durst not flatter him any longer, but answer’d with a sad negative there was not; unless the Gods would work a miracle in favour of him: which answere when the King had heard, he bid all should avoid the Roome except Barsarnes, and Phasellus, and calling them to his Bedside (while with abundance of Sorrow they approach’t to know his pleasure) he declar’d somewhat to them in private, and as he had done, his speech began to faulter: Barsarnes perceiving his end drawing nigh, and that he had no more to say, caus’d the Dore to be open’d that those who desir’d it might have liberty again to enter, which divers of the Nobility did, time enough to see him breath his last. Never was sorrow express’d to the life till now: all that were present, seem’d as if their soules had a designe to forsake their Bodies to wait on him to the other World. The certainty of his death being spread thoroughout the Campe (as t’was impossible to conceale it) fill’d all places with such cryes, and lamentations, as would have inspir’d pity into the Rocks could they have heard them.

The next day Phasellus left the Campe to go to Diomed, and being arriv’d there at the Village where he lay, he found him in a more dangerous condition then report spake him to be. Diomed receiv’d him with a great deall of kindness, but not with those raptures of Joy wherewith he was wont to wellcome him, before the difference which lately was between them.

I beg your pardon (said Phasellus, after he had made some enquiries of his condition, and express’d much sorrow to find him so ill) for my intrusion into you[r] presence (from which you so cruelly banish’d me) without your permission: but the occation that brought me must make my Apollogie; tis the death of Achemenes.{142}

The death of Achemenes (said Diomed and started) Heavens forbid it.

Tis but too certaine (repli’d Phasellus) I saw him dye: but to dispell that trouble which I see this ill newes has excited in you, I have somewhat to acquaint you with, that will bring you as much Joy, as what I have already said has brought you griefe.

Oh tell it quickly then Phasellus (said he), or I shall hardly live to heare it, my sorrow is so great for the loss of that good King.

Phasellus then presented him a Ring, and whisper’d something in his eare, not thinking it fit (perhaps) to speak it openly before so many as were in the Roome: and now (said he), since there is no more need of my assistance in these parts, I think it requisit to waite on my Princess [Artabella], and try if by the sight of her, I can again reduce my heart to its subjection. I confess I had rather stay with you till your recovery, then leave you, did I not believe, my company would prove more troublesome then obliging, till such time as I can give you some unquestionable Demo^n^stration of my Conversion.

No (repli’d Diomed) I would by no meanes do you, or my selfe so great an injury, as to retaine you with me when tis so necessary that you return to Persia, that you may thereby approve again your fidelity to your Mistress, and by that assure yourself of my Friendship, which you shall possess again with larg advantages [fol. 55^v] when you have once again recall’d that Vertue which you have almost forsaken.

Then giving him some private Instructions what he should say to the Princesse Oriana, and charging him not to take notice to her of any thinge that he had told him, adding, he desir’d to be the first that should acquaint her with it at his returne, which (as he said) should be as speedily as the Gods would be pleas’d to restore him to his health, and strength, and that he had took order for the settling of Scythia, and for the establishing Oriana’s power over her wel new Dominions: after this he most affectionatly embraced Phasellus, whilst he bad him farewell, and return’d to the Campe, spake with Barsarnes, and deliver’d him a Message from Diomed, and without delay began his Journey towards Persia; though Barsarnes would have perswaded him to stay, to attend Achemenes’s body, which within three dayes was to be carried thither, and waited on by himself and a considerable part of the Armie to the River Araxes, where they resign’d it to the conduct of some of the chiefest of the Nobility to convey it with all Millitary Pompe, and Ceremony to Susa (where the Princess then was) to be interr’d in the Monument of his Predecessors.

I should have told you Madam (said Celia) that Oruntus was brought to the Campe, the day after Achemenes died; where the souldiers were so transported with rage against him, for the death of their King (imputing it wholy to him) as Barsarnes had no easie task of it to restrain them from pulling him in pieces. But after he had with much perswasion allai’d their fury, he caus’d him to be brought into that Tent which was Diomeds, placeing a strong Guard on him to prevent his escape, if he should attempt it. Barsarnes being naturally of a generous{143} temper, could not endure to a^d^de contempt, to misery, nor trample with scorne upon a fallen Crowne; but remembred that Oruntus had lately been a Monarch, surpass’d by few in grandure, and therefore caus’d him to be treated with a respect, more sutable to his dignity then his condition.

Assoon as Diomed was in a capacity to be remov’d, he caus’d himself to be put into a Litter; and so carri’d by easy Journeys to the Armie, where he knew his presence was exceeding necessary. Assoon as he was come Barsarnes waited on him, to give him an account of all things that had past in his absence: but when he related the manner of the Kings death, it brought a new Deluge of sorrow on the soule of Diomed, which had like to have overwhelm’d his spirits with its violence; so many were the sad expresions of his griefe for the loss of that good King, that should I stay to repeat them (continu’d Celia) I should but tyre your Patience. After this, Barsarnes told him, Achemenes had left Oruntus to his dispose, onely commanded he should dy for his cruelty, but the manner of his death he left to him to determine. The next day he commanded Oruntus to be brought before him [fol. 56^r] which was accordingly perform’d. Diomed was in Bed when he came in, his weakness rendring him unable to see him in any other posture.

King of Scythia (said he to him) I suppose tis not unknown to you that the King of Persia at his death, constituted me to be your Judge; but I could wish he had ordain’d some other to determine your Fate, lest that which Justice will compell me too, should be looked on as revenge: for notwithstanding you have with all imaginable rigour sought my life, yet had your cruelty extended no further then to me, or that I had been the onely person concern’d in it, I should very easily have been perswaded to have wav’d my owne Concerns: but tis that Vertuous Princess (whose onely crime was that she had a being from you so bad a Father) tis that life that you have so barbarously depriv’d her of, that calls so loud for Vengeance that I cannot stop my eares against its cryes, nor (without as high an injustice as that wherewith you acted that cruell deed) pardon your crime. I am sorry you have thorough your obstinacy, or ambition (I know not which to terme it) provok’d a King to pull you from your Throne, who had neither desire, nor design to envade your Dominions, would you have suffer’d him to live peaceably in his owne: but you see (Oruntus) the justest sword has been the sharpest; and reduc’d you to a condition which deserves pitty even from your enemies; for my part, you have so much of my compassion, that I should in pitty let you live, though Pollicy, and Prudence both forbid it: yet I say, I should certainly have pass’t by both those respects, did not a more pressing consideration (I meane that Justice I owe to your Illustrious, and unfortunate Daughter) force me to pass the sentence of death upon you. But to let you see I am as free from Malice, as you were fraught with it, and with what reluctancy I execute my Office, I give you leave to chuse what death you will dye.

Affliction (answer’d Oruntus) oft teaches that Vertue, which Prosperity either suffers us not to learne, or if once learn’d, soon makes to forget: The verity of what I say, I can now prove from my owne experience; for had I still{144} continu’d in my florishing estate, questionless I had never seen the deformity of Vice, which now appeares so ugly to me, that I can never enough admire what blinded me before, I could not see its true shape: but now the Mist is vanish’d I perceive the greatness of my Crimes which appeare with so much horrour to me, that Death will rather be a mercy then a punishment, since it will free me from this Terrour which like a Fury will torment me whilst I live. Had I again that Kingdome I have lost, and with it all the Crownes on Earth united into one, I would freely give them all to purchace that life for my Deare Clazomena which I caus’d her to loose: but since that cannot be, that my Punishment may be resembling to my fault, I desire to dy by Poison as she did; that I may become the more sensible of what she suffer’d.

In my opinion (said Diomed) you have made a very good choice, and therefore to morrow you shall have your last draught presented you.

After Oruntus was carried back to that Tent which was his Prison, Diomed sent to Issedon to [fol. 56^v] sommon them to yeeld after the example of Sinone and all the other Cities of Scythia who had submitted; for they no sooner heard of a certain that their King was taken Prisoner, but they yeelded to his mercy, whose example he sent them word, if they would follow, they should find his Clemency as great to them as the other Citties had done; promising them there should not a man of them, neither souldiers, nor Inhabitants receive the least prejudice either in their goods, or persons; but if they refus’d, they would through an obstinate folly, draw on themselves, their Wives, and Children an inevitable ruine, which he was willing to prevent; for if they rejected so faire a proffer, he declar’d they must expect nothing but the uttmost of violence from the fury of a powerfull, and insenced Enemy. To this summons they return’d no positive answere; onely desir’d security for a young Lady (who they said was then in Issedon) to come in safty to speak with him; which he having upon his honour assur’d them of, she came soon after to the Campe, in a Chariot cover’d all with black, drawn by six white Horses cover’d by the same: she was herself in mourning, and onely accompanied with one Lady, who rode with her in the same sable habit; and in this equipage she appear’d like the Queen of Night: for thorough her black her beauty cast such a splendor, that she seem’d to all that saw her, like bright Cynthia breaking thorow a Cloud. When she was brought into the Tent where Diomed was, she pulled downe her Vaile, so as he could see but very little of her face; but yet she herselfe could see so much in his as assur’d her which was he without enquiring: so that addressing herselfe to him with a meen [mien] so majestick, and with so much humility mix’d with it; as she became no less the admiration of him, then of all the rest that were present.

The designe Sir (said she) that brought me hither was, to tender you a Ransome for our King whom misfortune has made your Captive; but since the Fates ordain’d him such a destiny, it was some satisfaction to his subjects, that he was fallen into the hands of so brave an Enemy, who knows as well to vanquish by his generosity, as by his Sword: it was this noble Principle in you, that gave us{145} the hopes you would not refuse that to our Prayers, which without injustice (I confess) you may deny. But that which I have heard since my coming to this place, has forced me to change my sute for his Freedome, into an humble Petition for his life; which on my knees I begge Sir you would spare. Let it suffice that you have taken his Kingdome from him; and that he has nothing left of all that Royalty wherewith he was invested, but the bare title of a King; and let that miserable, that deplorable condition where unto you have reduced him, create some compassion in you towards him: if you doubt his life may any way disturbe the Persians Conquest you have made them, keep him your Prisoner still; do any thing but destroy him by an untimely death.

Cease Madam (he repli’d) I beseech you to importune me to what I cannot grant; for if I could, believe it I had prevented [anticipated] your desires in giving Oruntus his life, [fol. 57^r] but I cannot do it, being oblig’d to the contrary by two inviolable Obligations, that of the command of the late King of Persia, and that Justice I owe to the memory of that most excellent Princess who most unjustly perish’d by his cruelty.

I think tis more then you can prove (said she interrupting him) that t’was unjust in him to put her to death, though I must needs say it was somewhat too severe; but that it was unjust I do deny; for though she was his Daughter, she was his subject too, then by a double right ^he^ had a power over her, both as her Father, and her King: and her Offence being no less then Treason, which in a subject deserves death, why was she not as lyable to suffer it as the meanest person in the Kingdome.

I confess Madam (said he), your Arguments carry so much of reason in them, that I can hardly find any to dispute against you. But admit she were guilty of what you charge her with; yet none but a Tyrant, but would have given her a Legall Tryall, and not have judg’d, and condemn’d her in his owne cause, without allowing her the liberty to plead in her owne behalf. I am not ignorant Madam of that power which belongs to Kings; I know it absolute, not to be controul’d by any; but I know withall that Good and just Princes never make their Will their Law; none but a Tyrant does do soe, and such your King shew’d himselfe, when he with so much inhumanity murther’d his onely Daughter; had he put her to death Legally, he had been much more excusable.

Whilst you accuse him of cruelty (repli’d she) you are your selfe sir guilty of a greater to Clazomena in making her guilty after her death of her Fathers; a Crime so great, as were she living, she would cur^s^e herself for; and will (questionless) if she has knowledge of ought transacted here below eternally disturbe her happiness.

I cannot tell Madam (said he), what interest you may pretend to Oruntus, sure somewhat more then common alleigance, that incites you to plead so highly in his behalfe, so much to the prejudice of his Daughter, you show much of Friendship to the one, but you speak no less enemity to the other.{146}

So far am I sir (she repli’d) from being Clazomenas enemy, that did you know me, you would confess I were as much her friend as she could be to her selfe; but you must pardon me if I declare I am more my Kings then I am hers: wherefore I once more conjure you sir to grant what I implore; and if no other Argument can prevaile with you, let your gratitude to that Unhappie Princess plead for what I humbly sue; she sav’d your life, which caus’d her death; Oh do not then with such ingratitude requite that favour, as to take away her Fathers.

I should indeed but too ingratfully requite her kindness (Diomed repli’d) should I let him live that kill’d her.

Were she living (said she) would you let him live.

Most willingly (said he) on that condition, and more then that, were it in my power, I would (for her sake) freely restore him all that Fortune has taken from him.

Since you have promis’d he shall live (answer’d she) conditionally that Clazomena does, I must declare to you she is not dead though you believe her soe.

Tis impossible (he repli’d) Cydarius saw her dead.

He was deceiv’d (said she) in what he saw; for on my word she lives if I do so, for I am that unfortunate Princess (continu’d she turning up her Vaile) happie in nothing but in this, that I have liv’d to be a meanes of preserving the life of him, from whom I had my being. If you suspect any thing of fallicy fallacy in what I say; call for any of those Scythians you have taken, and if there be any amongst [fol. 57^v] them that have ever seen me, and let them say whether I am not Oruntus’s Daughter or no: but Diomed needed no further confirmation then the full sight of her; for having seen her Picture he knew, none but herself could so perfectly resemble that. But being amaz’d at what he saw, he remain’d a while silent, as it were to consider whether he might believe his eyes; but finding they did not deceive him, he rose from his Chaire (though not without much difficulty) and threw himselfe at her Feet, to implore her pardone for his uncivill reception of her (as he term’d it).

Ah Madam (said he), have I been so unhappie to bring that Princess on her knees to me, to whom I owe my life and liberty: but I hope Madam your unparalel’d goodness will make a favourable construction of my rude deportment towards you, and harsh deniall of your sute, and that you will impute what I have done or said, to nothing but my{152} ignorance of your true quality: and if it may any way alleviate the offence I have committed against the most Excellent, and most Obliging Princess of the World, I will assure you Madam on my Honour (which I value above all things) that had I known what now I do, I had ere this sent home your Father Ransomless; or if that had been beyond the extent of my power, I would my selfe have paid his Ransome; for all the designes I had against him, had no other foundation but my gratitude to you; and my hatered I conceiv’d against him was meerly on the account of that violence wherewith he treated you. But why Madam would you no sooner discover your selfe, and so{147} prevent the trouble of a deniall; which you had ne’re receiv’d, if I had had the honour to have known you.

The truth is (answer’d she) if I could by any meanes but the discovery of my selfe, have obtain’d my Petition, I would still have remain’d conceal’d, least when Oruntus knows he owes his life to my intercession, his hatered of me should make him detest it, and thinke it rather a punishment then a favour of y from you.

Were he the same he was, still possest with a malishi malicious and revengfull mind, you would have some reason Madam for that apprehension; but I’le assure you, you may banish all those feares for he is quite another from what he was, and does as much repent his cruelty to you, as he desir’d before to act it.

May I with confidence (said she) credit what you tell me, if so, I shall not value what Fortune has depriv’d me of, since the Heavens has restor’d me to my Fathers Love.

I tell you nothing Madam (repli’d he) but what I am my selfe perswaded of; but I will not impose that beliefe on you, till experience shall confirme it. I would my selfe waite on you to the King your Father, did not my weakness render me unable to do you that service; but in my stead, Barsarnes shall attend you thither (with that he sent one to call him) and in the meane time, while he comes Madam (said he) let me humbly beg the favour to know how you were preserv’d from that death to which Oruntus destin’d you; I know already the whole story of your sufferings from the mouth of Cydarius.

At the mention of Cydarius she blush’t and [fol. 58^r] and pull’d downe her Vaile the better to conceale that little redness which his name had painted on her Cheek. That (said she), by which my Father was deceiv’d and I preserv’d (who as really believ’d me dead as Hersilia and all that saw me) and I preserv’d, was by a sleepie Potion which I drank instead of deadly Poison for he who made it, being more friendly to me, then faithfull to Oruntus; put in it such Ingredients, as might so stupifie the vitall spirits for a time, as it was impossible for me to be thought any other then dead. When they saw this drink had wrought on me the operation he intended; he perswaded the King, that the Venoume of what he had given me was so great, that it would presently corrupt the Body if it were not presently ^instantly^ buried, so that the stench of it would be very offencive to all that came neere me: he found no difficulty in perswading my Father to this, so that he gave him order to bury me privately the ensuing night: which he accordingly perform’d, none following me to the Grave but my owne servants; amongst whom my Faithfull Hersilia was one, who never would forsake me; but beg’d (as I afterwards was told) with the greatest importunity imaginable that they would bury her alive with me: but when she saw she could not prevaile in her desire, she vow’d never to stir from my Grave, but to remain perpetually to lament me.

This Phisician (who was call’d Medicius) being well enough assur’d of her fidelity to me, made no scruple to discover to her, that what he had done was onely to preserve me from my Fathers fury; telling her withall, that if she would be but a little patient she should see me revive again: but such was her sorrow{148} as she could give no credit to such an improbability. But as I said, the rest being gone, he call’d two of his owne servants in whom he knew he might confide, and caus’d them to take me up again, and carry me to his house (which was not far from that place) where his Wife, and Hersilia took me me out of the Coffin, and laid me in a warme bed: after which, the Coffin was carr’d [carried] back again, and put into the Grave, and that made up, so as none could mistrust what had been done.

All that night, and the greatest part of the next day I continu’d in that Trance, to all appearance dead: but he knowing very well that there was something of danger in what he had given me wrench’d open my mouth, pouring downe a certain Spirit which I suppose brought me from my seeming death a little too soon; for presently after I awak’d, so as to open my eyes, and give some symptomes of life, but yet I lay a long time as one senseless: but at length my spirits began a little to come to me, so that I was a little more sensible. But when I came perfectly to my self, (which was not till the next morning) I looking up with admiration, wonder`d where, or in what place I was; well knowing I [fol. 58^v] was not in my owne Chamber: but seeing Hersilia standing by me, with her eyes almost swell’d out with weeping, I ask’d her where I was, and what she ail’d that her looks testifi’d so much of sorrow: she in few words made me understand where I was, and how brought thither, and consequently the occation of her griefe. Thus sir you see by what meanes the Gods preserv’d me; and in Medicius’s house I remain’d ever since conceal’d, till that very day you sent your summons to Issedon to yeeld, so that I need not tell you what occation brought me hither, being already acquainted with it.

Barsarnes being by this time come, Diomed desir’d him to waite on the Princess Clazomena to the King of Scythia, and to tell him, since she was living, he freely forgave him all the injuries he had done him; and that he would for the Princesses sake (if he would condescend to some Propositions he would make him) not onely give him his liberty, but restore him his Crowne and Kingdome: which Message Clazomena having heard, she express’d a high resentment [regard] of [for] his generosity, and presented her hand to Barsarnes; who took it with a respect due to the greatness of her birth, and lead her to the Tent where Oruntus was: When they came in, they found him lying on the Bed; but hearing some body enter his Chamber, he arose, believing it was the Messenger of his approaching death which he had many houres expected: but seeing a Gentleman enter, leading a Lady, and another following, he knew not what to conjecture; but as they drew neer him, he thought in the Countenance of the first he saw his Daughters face: and retreating a little back, he gave a sudden start as one affrighted, crying out,

Oh Clazomena why have you left that Place of bliss, where your pure soule enjoy’d all true felicity, to come to reproach your unhappy ^Father^ with your death, since he is now about to satisfie for it with his owne. Or if that be not enough, let me, Oh let me (continu’d he with a sigh) know what I may do before{149} I leave the World to pacifie thy justly incenced spirit; but couldst thou see my heart, thou wouldst behold there so much of sorrow and remorse for my unnaturall cruelty, as thou couldst not but be satisfi’d with what I suffer for the wronge I did thee.

Clazomena perceiving he took her for a Ghost, was not troubled at his mistake; since thereby she found she was in a possibility of being once more happie: but she would no longer let him continue in his errour, but falling on her knees, and taking one of his hands which she kiss’d, washing it with teares. Let these teares, (Deare Father said she) the true witnesses of my repentance for having incurred your displeasure, and of my unfeigned sorrow for your misfortunes, assure you Sir that I am really your Clazomena not her Ghost as you suppose; and if you doubt I am so, let Hersilia witness the truth of what I say (continu’d she pointing to her who came with her) he hearing her speak, and finding by her actions she was no Apparition, as he had fanci’d her, he burst forth into Teares of Joy, and embraceing her with a more Fatherly, and tender affection then ever he had [fol. 59^r] express’d towards her, he took her up and set her downe by him.

Have the Gods then my Deare Clazomena (said he) been so undeservedly favourable to me who have oft so wickedly despis’d their power, as by a miracle of mercy to raise you from the dead, and restore you to me again after I had lost you through my owne cruelty. Ah deare Child (pursu’d he embraceing her again) nothing now grieves me, but that I must not live to testifie my thankfullness to them for so great a blessing.

If that be the onely thing that does disturbe your Joys Sir (said Barsarnes) you may cast off all thoughts of Death; for if you can accept of Life from a Generous enemy, Diomed gives you yours.

I will forget he was so (repli’d Oruntus) and from henceforth esteeme him as my Friend.

And more then that (added Barsarnes) he will set you free, and reinstate you in your Dominions again for this faire Princesses sake, upon some Conditions: what they are I know not; but if you please Sir to ^go^ with me to him he will himselfe acquaint you with them.

Come let us go then (answer’d Oruntus) taking the Princess by the hand to lead her with him; whilst Barsarnes did the like to Hersilia; and as Oruntus pass’d by her, he told her he hop’d he should be one day able to requite her fidelity to her Mistress, and so pass’d on. Diomed seeing him come met him at his Chamber Dore; for though he was not well enough to stir abroad, he made a shift to walk a litle about his Chamber.

I am come (said Oruntus to him) in the first place, to beg your pardon for whatever my implacable and revengfull disposition made me injuriously commit against you, and that you would so far forget it, as never to think on those injuries any more; and do me the Justice to believe, I will ever be as much your Friend, as I have hitherto bin your Foe, if you esteeme the Friendship of a distressed Captive Prince worth your acceptance.{150}

As it has been Fortunes fault that you are so (repli’d Diomed) so it must be now your owne, if you continue soe; for if you will accept of some Propositions I shall make you, you may then be as happie, as you esteeme your selfe unfortunate. As for my Pardon, tis needless Sir to desire it, since tis already granted; but for my owne part I am oblig’d to beg yours, for not treating you with that respect and reverence, that I should have done, had my prejudice to your Majesty been on any other score then what it was.

The next thinge that brought me hither said (Oruntus), was to know of you what those things are, which you have to propose to me touching a Peace, which I earnestly desire may be establish’d between this Kingdome and that of Persia.

The Conditions Sir are these (repli’d Diomed) on which I shall venture to restore you your Crown. First that you pay yearly a 1000 Tallents forever to the Queen of Persia and her successors, to acknowledge you hold your Crowne of them. And secondly that you shall aide, and assist the Persians if any other Nation make War upon them, with 10000 of your most valiant Scythians. And thirdly you shall send Ten Children of the Sons of the noblest Families in your Dominions as Hostages, to be [fol. 59^v] educated in the Persian Court; and still at their returne, their number to be suppli’d with others. And lastly that you shall recall Cydarius from Banishment (and set out your Manifests to that purpose) and receive him into your Royall favour whensoever he shall render himselfe.

To this last Article Oruntus consented very willingly, but to the others not without much repugnancy, being very unwilling to bring those that should succeed him into such subjection: but since there was no remedy, he consented to them, after Diomed had promis’d to perswade the Queen of Persia to moderate somewhat of the severity of those Conditions; but of himselfe (he said) he could not exact less, since he conquer’d for another, not himselfe. The Articles being seal’d, Diomed told Oruntus he was free to go to Issedon when he pleas’d, and that he himself would waite on him there within a day or two, when he had a little setled his owne Affaires. Oruntus biding him farewell till then, departed, taking the Princess along with him, and was wellcom’d by his subjects (as many of them as were in Issedon) with great expressions of Joy; and the rather, in regard he brought Peace home with him, which of all other, is the greatest blessing any People can enjoy.

The two Following days were spent in preparation for the reception of Diomed, which was with abundance of state, and more Magnificence then could be expected in so short a time. The third day after the Kings returne, Diomed came to Issedon, bringing Cydarius with him; to whom he had declar’d the Princesses being alive, least the unexpected sight of her might have been prejudiciall to him, being but newly recover’d from a dangerous sickness, which had so weakned him, as he had scarce strength enough to be brought to Issedon, without the danger of a Relaps: but when he had heard this Joyfull newes, he would not be perswaded to keep any longer from the sight of his beloved Princess. At{151} the Gate of Issedon Oruntus met them, attended by a great Traine of Nobles with the Crowne upon his head, and invested with all his Royall Ornaments.

Diomed seeing him approach, lit out of his Chariot to meet him, taking Cydarius by the hand to present him to the King. I shall see Sir (said Diomed to him) how well you will keep all the other Articles by the reception you give the Generous Cydarius, though he has not stay’d to be call’d home; but trusting on that favour wherewith you have heretofore honour’d him, returnes to render himself to your mercy.

With that Cydarius presented himselfe on his Knees to Oruntus, whilst he embraced him with no less kindness then if he had never been displeas’d with him; and told him, he was sorry he had expos’d him to such sufferings, as that alteration which appear’d in him shew’d he had undergone: and turning to Diomed, he told him if there ne needed no more to testifie the reallity of his intentions to keep those Articles he had made, then his treating Cydarius well; he should ere long have an [fol. 60^r] assurance great enough: with that he took the Keys of the Cytie Gates from the man that carried them, and presented them to Diomed; and took off his Crowne and laid it at his Feet, in token that he resign’d it to the Queen of Persia: which Diomed (^as^ representing her person) having taken of him put it again on Oruntus’s head, saying. Though by the right of Warre we might justly weare this Crowne, yet out of our royall bounty we restore it, on condition those Articles you have seal’d be never violated.

This Cerimony being past, they stay’d not, but went on to that house which the King had made his Palace ever since he came first to Issedon. Being come into a very spacious Roome, fit for the reception of such Illustrious Company; the King sate him downe, upon a Throne (which he had caus’d to be erected for some perticuler designment) causing Diomed to be seated on his right hand; and sent instantly for the Princess, who soon after came in: but when she saw Cydarius standing by the King her Father, she express’d much of disorder in her thoughts, by her often change of colour; not that she was troubled to see him, but since she had made such a cleare discovery of her affection, as neither he nor any else could be ignorant of it, she knew not with what confidence to look on him; especially in her Fathers presence. Faine would Cydarius as soon as he saw her come in, have gone to throw himself at her Feet, to tell her the greatness of his Joy, to find himself so happily deceiv’d in the beliefe of her death, had he not fear’d to draw on him the Kings anger again (being but lately pacifi’d) by such an action: but he was forced to content himselfe with onely giving her a very low reverence as she past by him; and let the dumbe language of his eyes express his thoughts.

I sent for you Clazomena (said the King) to recompence you for that severity wherewith I treated you; which I can never sufficently do but by placeing you on that Throne, to which, Nature (without my aide,) will help you one day to ascend: but that will be no thanks to me, if I then leave you what I can no longer keep, but if I now resign my Crowne, tis my owne free act, which nothing but my love to thee compells me too. Come then my Clazomena, let me with my owne hand Crowne thee Queen of Scythia (continu’d he rising up, and taking off his Crowne).

The Gods forbid Sir (she repli’d) that ere you should for me unthrone your selfe; no, long may you live to weare this Crowne which by the favour of our generous Conquerour you once again repossess in Peace: nor need you seek Sir for a recompence for me, I have already receiv’d one great enough for ^more then^ what I suffer’d, in the enjoyment of your love, and favour; which I a thousand times prefer before that Diadem which you would bestow upon me: nor could Oruntus [fol. 60^v] perswade her to permit herself to be crown’d by him, till to his perswasions he joyn’d his Commands; and withall declar’d, that what he did, was as well to ease himselfe of a Burthen (wherein he had found more trouble then delight) as to show his love to her: so that seeing her Fathers resolutions were firmly fix’d to execute what he had determin’d, she sate downe on that Throne which (as it seemes) Oruntus had caus’d to be erected for this very purpose, and suffer’d him to set the Crowne upon her head (though not without much unwillingness) which when he had done, he kist her, wishing her Reigne might be as prosperous as his had been unfortunate. This being done, all that were present gave a shout, crying with unanimous Voices, the Gods preserve Queen Clazomena.

The noise being a little past, Oruntus spake again. Though I have given away my Royall authority, yet I have not parted with the power of a Father, that I still retaine; and that I trust Daughter (said he) you will still obey: but I will onely make use of it in one thing; which is, in chusing a Husband for you, which shall be noe other then Cydarius, whom I desire you would accept, as him who best deserves you.

Since I have obey’d you Sir (repli’d she) in what was most repugnant to my reason, and desires; you need not question but I will obey you in all things else: but perhaps Sir though you esteeme Cydarius worthy of me, he may not esteeme me worthy of himselfe.

Oh Madam (said Cydarius with the greatest passion imaginable) do not that injustice to that high respect, and unfeigned passion I beare you, as to make that a question, which needs no answere: can you esteeme me so void of sense, as to look on this honour, and happiness which is design’d me by your Royall Father, any otherwise then as the a felicity so great, as not any thing under Heaven can equall.

Oruntus perceiving he could not more oblige them then in giving them to each other, sav’d his Daughter the trouble of a reply; for taking her by the hand he gave her to Cydarius. Here Cydarius (said he to him) I do as freely give her you, as Heaven bestow’d her on me; and I will that your marriage be no longer defer’d, then till such time as things may be prepar’d fit for your Nuptiall solemnities; till which time (said he to Diomed) I shall intreat your stay here, that you may honour my Daughters Marriage with your presence.{154}

Though my occations are urgent for my departure (he repli’d) yet I will dispence with them, till I have seen the happiness of the Illustrious Clazomena, and my generous Friend accomplished, in whose felicities I shall beare a part.

This choice of Oruntus’s, was no less satisfactory to the Scythians, then obliging to Cydarius, for he was generally belov’d by all; nor could he in all his Kingdome have made choice [fol. 61^r] of any person to bestow her on, so much deserving as he, both as to his birth, and those excellent quallities wherewith he was endu’d; which were such as few could parallele; so highly generous, so truly Valiant, so wisely Prudent, so every way accomplish’t was he, as none but would have believ’d, he had rather receiv’d his education in Rome, or Athens, then amongst a People so rude, and barbarous, as they scarce knew what belong’d to common civility: then seeing Cydarius was such, and far more excellent then I [Celia] have represented him, tis not to be thought but that Clazomena will be no less happy in him then he in her; to which happiness I will leave them in a desired expectations of their approaching marriage, and returne to Persia to see what is there is acted since we since we left that sceane.

But Celia could proceed no further; for the Queen having been enform’d that Gentillus was come, admitted him into her presence and instantly sent for the Sicilian Lady [Arthenia] to give the relation of her misfortunes, which she no sooner understood, but she immediatly went in, and presented her selfe to Ermillia, who told her it was now that she expected the performance of her promise.

I shall obey you Madam (she repli’d) though I know I cannot do it without reviveing in my soule those resentments [feelings] which I ardently desire to banish thence; but neither that, nor any other consideration is so prevalent with me, as my obedience to your Majesties commands, and my Lord Gentillus’s desires, to whom I must ever acknowledge my Obligations infinite.

To which expression he having made a sutable reply, at the Queens request he took a seat, preparing with attention to hearken to the ensuing discourse, which the Sicilian Lady (after a short silence, to recall some almost forgoten passages of her life) began in these Words.

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