THE MOST PLEASANT History of Ornatus and Artesia. Wherein is contained the unjust Reign of Thaeon King of Phrygia. Who with his son Lenon, (intending Ornatus death,) right Heir to the Crown, was afterwards slain by his own Servants, and Ornatus after many extreme miseries, Crowned King.  
LONDON Printed by Thomas Creed. 1607.   

To the right worshipful, Brian Stapleton of Carleton, in the County of York Esquire, the heavens grant health, content, and after life, everlasting happiness.  
THis unpolished History Right worshipful, wanting the Ornament of Eloquence fit for rare invention, presenteth itself in his natural and self expressing form, in well applied words, not in tedious borrowed phrases: wherein neither the lewd can find examples to suit their dispositions, the virtuous no terms to discontent them, nor the well affected any cause of offence. Here shall you see lust Tyrannising, avarice, guilty of murder, & dignity, seeking his content with usurpation, yet all subverted by virtue. Which I am bold to present unto you, not for the worth, but to express my good will, which is not unmindful in some sort to gratify the manifold courtesies I have received of you. And although it be altogether not worth estimation, and to be accounted no requital for so many good turns, yet I desire you to accept the same in steed of a better, and the sum of that which my ability at this time can afford: Which being but a fancy, vouchsafe to esteem, though not agreeing with your gravity, yet (as many both Noble and wise in such like matters have done) to be red for recreation. As the value of the gift expresseth not the affection of the giver, nor the outward show the inward meaning, so I trust you will esteem my good will, not by the worthiness hereof, but the quality of my well affected intent, which is devoted unto you in the bands of perfect good will, and will be ready to show itself constant in any trial you shall make thereof. And for that I know your wisdom and courtesy to be such, as that you will not misconceive me, but esteem well hereof, and my affection to you, to be expressed in the dedication, I have adventured to dedicate the same to your protection, though altogether undeserving the title of your patronage, which your further kindness shall bind me hereafter to requite the same, with some worthier work collected by my labours. Thus being loath to be tedious and troublesome unto you, I commit this silly present to your gentle acceptation, and yourself, to the gracious protection of the Almighty.  
Your Worship's most ready at command, Emanuel Ford.   

TH● EPISTLE to the Reader.  
GEntlemen, I have published this History, at the entreaty of some of my familiar friends, being at the first collected with no intent to have it printed, for as yet having taken but one flight, I durst not too boldly venture again, lest my unskilfulness might cause my repentance. But being supported by the assistance of your gentle favours, I shall grow hardy, & hereafter labour to procure your further delight: the reward I expect, being your kind acceptance. But if contrary to my thought, this my summer fruit be gathered before it be ripe, I promise amends with old fruit, that hath been a year in ripening, and in the beginning of the next winter coming forth. In the mean time, peruse this History, which savoureth more of pleasure, than Eloquence: & although hastily compiled, yet let it pas●e under your favourable censure: and by your courtesies, be shrouded from the variable dislikes of Momu● vain imitators.  
The learned, wise, and courteous, will according to the quality of their dispositions, esteem well of this unworthy work, valuing the same, not by the worth, but by the will of the writer.  
As for such as either rashly condemn without judgement, or lavishly dislike without advice, I esteem them like the down of Thistles, inconstantly dispersed with every blast, accounting their discontent, my content: not caring for to please those that are pleased with nothing.  
But did my gains, countervail my labours, I would then frame my fancy to sit their humours, but getting nothing, I can lose no less, only to have a good opinion of the well affected to learning, is all I crave: and that I hope your good minds will afford.  
As at a Banquet there are several kinds of meats, some pleasant, other sharp, yet all tasted. Amongst Grapes, some sour, some sweet, yet all esteemed, so with indifferency, amongst variety of eloquent Histories, let this serve as one dish to furnish out a Banquet, and like sour and sweet intermingled, make a pleasant taste, by your courteous construing of my good meaning, and your favourable opinion of Ornatus love. So shall I account my debt to you great, my labours well bestowed, and myself bound to requite your kindness. You shall show your affection to learning, virtue in favouring good endeavours, & give encouragement to mor● worthy labours. I rest well contented, my reward rich, and hereafter be both ready and willing to deserve your courtesy. But if Ornatus love breed my blame, as it bred his banishment, then may I wish I had never known thereof, and cry out of Mala fortuna, as my reward. With the bird Cel●s bred in Africa, who wandering far from her nest, by forgetfulness cannot return: and so for ever after abandoneth company. So I too boldly building on your courtesy, may be wounded with repentance, and by my oversight be brought in despair, unless your courtesy prevent the same: on which my hopes depend. And so I cease.  
E. Ford.   
THE MOST PLEAsant History of Ornatus and Artesia.  

Chap. 1. How Ornatus was enamoured of the fair Artesia.  
IN the rich and renowned country of Phrygia, in Provinces not far distant from near neighbourhood, dwelled two ancient Knights, the one named Allinus, the other Arbastus, men of great possessions, and much honoured. Betwixt whom, such extreme contention and hatred remained, by reason of the death of one Renon, brother to Allinus, long since slain in a quarrel by certain gentlemen belonging to Arbastus, that neither their own wisdom, nor the sundry persuasions of friends to either party allied, were of any force to mitigate the same. Both of them being enriched with innumerable blessings, especially in their fair progeny.  
Allinus having a son of goodly stature, and commendabl● gifts, named Ornatus. And Arbastus a daughter called Artesia, of exceeding comeliness, exterierlie beautified with abundance of gifts of nature, and inwardly a●orned with abundance of divine perfections. Yet by reason of their parent's discord, they remained as far ignorant in knowledge one of the other, as if they had been separated by an innumerable distance of strange countries.  
Ornatus above all things delighted in Hawking, and on a day, being weary, he wandered without company with his hawk on his fist, into a most pleasant valley, where he shrouded himself under the shadow of a tuft of green trees, with purpose to rest himself, and even when his eyes were ready to yield to slumber, he was revived from his drowsiness, by the noise of a kennel of hounds that past by him in chase of a Stag, after whom Arbastus and divers in his company (though to him unknown) followed, who being passed by whilst he was in a deep study to think what they should be, he espied a beautiful damsel entering the same valley▪ who being somewhat weary, liking the prospect of that shady tuft of trees, alighted there, which Ornatus seeing, withdrew himself from her sight, whilst she tying her steed to a bush▪ laid her delicate body down upon the cooling earth, to breath herself, and dry up her sweat, which the sooner to accomplish, she unbraced her garments, and with a decent and comely behaviour, discovered her milk-white neck & breast, beautified with two round precious teats, to receive the breath of the cool wind, which was affected with a delight to exhale the moistened vapours from her pure body. Ornatus seeing all, and unseen himself, noted with delight each perfect linament of her proper body, beauty, sweet favour▪ and other comeliness, which filled his heart with exceeding pleasure, therewith growing into an unrestrained affection towards her, and a great study what she should be, when suddenly his hawk feeling his fist unmovable, thinking to perch herself with quiet, primde herself, and with the noise of her bells, made Ar●●sia start, who as one half aghast, with a fearful behaviour arose from the ground, looking round about her from whence that sound came, she espied Ornatus (who unwilling she should perceive he had yet seen her, lay as if he had slept) Artesia marveling what he should be, & accordingly thinging he had slept, closed her naked breast with great haste, and unloosing her horse, thought to go away unespied. Which Ornatus perceiving, and unwilling without speaking to her to lose her sight, seemed to awake, and raising himself▪ stedfestly beheld her, which infused such a red vermilion blush into her beautiful cheeks, and withal such a bashful confusion spread itself in her conceits, that she stood like one half amazed or ashamed.  
Which Ornatus perceiving, drew towards her, and gréeted her with these speeches. Fair Damosel, be not abashed with my presence, though a stranger, which shall no way if I can choose offend you, but rather command me, and I will be ready to do you any service. Artesia notwithstanding his speeches, withdrew herself, leading her horse to a bank, where with ease she mounted, and so road away, not giving him any answer at all. Ornatus marveled thereat, yet rightly imputed her unkind departure to her fear, not discourtesy. And seeing himself deprived of her sight, the night approaching, departed home to his father's house. After supper, betaking himself to his chamber with intent to rest, he was possessed with such remembrance of the beautiful damosel he had seen, that his sleep was transformed into continual cogitations of her beauty, form and favour, and the pleasing sight he had seen in the discovery of some of her hidden beauties, imprinted such a delight in his affectionate conceits, that he could take no sleep, but continued all that night in those meditations.  
The next day thinking to shake off all further remembrance of her, he gate into company of his most chosen friends, wherein before time he took most delight, yet now by reason of his distemperature, he rather seemed weary thereof. He had not continued long with them, but he was saluted by a gentleman named Phylastes, with whom he was familiarly acquainted: this gentleman belonged to an ancient Duke named Turnus, who in honour of his birth day, from which Allinus excused himself of purpose, because he thought he should meet Arbastus there, but because the Duke should take no offence at him, he granted that his son Ornatus should go to do him honour. Which Phylastes acquainted Ornatus withal, who glad thereof, departed thither in company of divers other gentlemen: the Duke likewise had sent another messenger to request Arbastus company, who being of a more m●de nature then Allinus, willingly went, and with him, his L●dy, and fair daughter Artesia.   

CHAP. II. How Ornatus came to knowledge of Artesia, & entreated Adellena to make known his love to her, and of the rebuke Artesia gave her.  
AFter the feast was ended, and the Duke had honoured his guests with all manner of curtes●ie, he & the principallest, amongst whom Arbastus was one of the chief, according to the custom used in the country, seated themselves to behold certain games and exercises to be performed by the young Gentlemen: which was, running, wrestling, and divers other exercises, for trial of the strength, and nimbleness of the body: amongst the rest, Ornatus (having never before made trial of himself) had such good success, and behaved himself with such agility and strength, that he won the chiefest honour, and was presented before the Duke, to receive a rich reward.  
Which when he had received, casting his eyes upon the beholders, he espied Artesia whom he perfectly knew again, ●eadie to depart with her parents, who had bidden the Duke farewell. Ornatus coming to Philastes, asked if he knew that damosel, showing him Artesia, who told him what she was. Ornatus was glad of that small knowledge, which could add● little means to his hopes, yet somewhat discontented that she was daughter to Arbastus. And thus the day being ended, every one departed to their abodes.  
Ornatus having again attained his chamber; spent his time of rest in sundry cogitations of his love, and how to give her knowledge of his affection, noting every danger, and pondering how discontentedly his parents would take the same, if it should by any means come to their knowledge, finding so many le●tes to hinder him, that he was oftentimes in utter despair of attaining to the least hope of good success. But finding his affections to increase more and more, and burning with a fervent desire, which nothing but only her savour could extinguish.  
After that night was past, early the next morning he wandered towards the place where he had beheld her with such exceeding content, and by the way as he went, he met with a gentlewoman named Adellena, of mean birth, and small living, yet of good education, who oftentimes resorted to Arbastus house, and was going thither at that instant, into whose company he insinuated himself, for that he saw her alone, and said as followeth.  
Gentlewoman, I am bold to entreat a word or two with you. Sir replied she, with a good will, I will satisfy you in what I can. Know you not (quoth he) Arbastus? I do quoth she, both know him, and am very well acquainted with him, unto whose house I am now going. So would I quoth he if I durst, for I serve Ornatus, son to Allinus, whom I do not doubt but you know well, of whom I would tell you more, but that I fear to commit his secrets to them I know not, and thereby unwillingly do him injury: but would you vouchsafe but to hear them, keep them secret, and withal add your help● to further him, which you may with safety perform, you should do him an excéneding pleasure, and withal, be so highly rewarded, and thankfully gratified, that you should think your labour very well employed: do a deed of pity, and bind him to you in the perpetual bands of kind friendship.  
Sir replied Adellena, I know not ●he Gentleman, yet I have heard him much commended, in whom if I could any way pleasure, I would use both diligence and secrecy, promising you upon my saith and credit, if you will make me acquainted with your mind, I will either do my good will to further him, or else conceal what you shall commit to my privity.  
Then said he, my master not long since walking in yonder valley, beheld Artesia, fair Artesia, daughter to Arbastus, to whose beauty he is exceedingly enthralled, that unless some means of comfort be found to ease his torments, I fear me it will in danger his life: whom you only may pleasure, by making his love known to her, in such sort as shall best agree with your wisdom. This is all, and yet so much, that the revealing thereof may do much harm. And to effect such a contract, might procure peace and unity betwixt their parents. Therefore I entreat your aid and furtherance herein: with which good news, if I return to him, I know it will breed no little comfort to his disquiet heart.  
Sir (said she) since I perceive his love is grounded upon virtue, not drawn thereto by any desire of reward, I undertake to be his assistant therein, and will to the uttermost of my best endeavours labour to procure his content: Which this day I will in some sort put in execution. And if you return to me to morrow, you shall know her answer. I will said he, and so they departed. Ornatus having left her, entered into many cogitations of his rash attempt, accounting himself over credulous to commit his secrets to her privity, of whose fidelity he had never made trial: sometimes comforting himself with hope of good event, and again despairing of comfort, for that he supposed Artesia would rather esteem him as an enemy than a friend, by reason of their parent's hatred, and therefore would the more hardly be drawn to give any credit to his suit. And revolving a chaos of these and such like confused cogitations, he attained his father's house, thinking the time tedious until his appointed meeting with Adellena; which he overpast with great care. Adellena after her departure from him, soon attained to Arbastus house, using herself as she had formerly done, yet withal, careful how to execute the charge she had in hand, which she could by no occasion utter, till after dinner when she found Artesia all alone in the garden, insinuated herself into her company, which Artesia kindly accepted, entering into variety of discourses, and continuing some time in giving certain herbs their proper names: amongst the rest, Artesia espied an herb with party coloured leaves, demanding of Adellena if she knew the name thereof, which she told her she did not. I have oftentimes quoth Artesia seen this herb, and it hath two pretty names, it is by some called Love in Idleness, and by some Haris Case: with that Adellena fetched a deep (though counterfeit) sigh, which Artesia noting, said: What maketh you sigh to hear it named Haris Case? Mary (quoth she) one way because those two names so all agree, an other, for by the same I call to remembrance the heart's grief I heard a young man complain of procured by love, which was not in idleness, but I think in good earnest. Why quoth Artesia, can love procure such hearts grief to any, and not rather content? Yea said she, because the party in love, hath no hope to attain the good liking of the party be loveth. Then quoth Artesia, I account him a fool that will love so deeply without hope of reward: and that to be rather fondness then true friendship, that pleaseth his affections with such inequalities. But I pray tell me what is he into whose secrets you were so suddenly admitted? Not admitted (quoth she) for unawares I heard his complaints, which afterwards I promised him not to make any acquainted withal, but the party whom he so entirely loveth. Then quoth Artesia, I may not know, neither do I care, for it is but a vanity that troubleth one's cogitations. Yes quoth she, you may and shall if you please, know who he is, conditionally you will neither be offended with me for telling you, nor reveal what I shall impart. Why quoth she, am I the pretty, or doth it any way concern me, that I should be offended? If it be, then keep your counsels unrevealed, for it will prove unsavoury to my stomach, for be it far from me to be troubled with the vain suits of doting lovers. Yet let me answer quoth Adellena, you hear too grievous a conceit of love, which is the divine purity whereby hearts are united in virtue. Without the which, neither mortals can attain heaven, nor other creatures have their being: therefore not to be abhorred: and for that any should love yourself, can that be an offence to you, but rather be accepted in kind sort? we should by nature love them that love us, then will you contrary to nature, yield hatred for love? For you indeed are the party that is beloved, and the party that is so far in love with you every way to be commended, & one way discommended, whose name I will not reveal, & then I hope I shall breed no offence to your ears. Do so quoth Artesia, for in concealing the same, you please me, & if you will be welcome into my company, use no more of these speeches. Had I thought quoth she, they would have been offensius, I would not have uttered them, but in so doing, I did but fulfil your request: then at my request again quoth she, give over. After this communication ended, they parted, Adellena, home to to her house, and Artesia to her supper, and afterwards to her chamber, where at first, some cold thoughts of those speeches passed in her fancy, but afterwards she spent the rest of that night in quiet sleep.   

CHAP. III. How Adellena conveled Ornatus letter into artesia's Casket, and with what impatiency Artesia took the same.  
THe morning being newly approached, Ornatus who had long expected the same, arose and soon gate to adellena's house, where he arrived before she was up, who having knowledge thereof, soon came down to him, (taking him to be no other than Ornatus man) to whom she declared the very truth of all her speeches had with Artesia. Which nipped him at the heart, but being put in some hope by her persuasions, at last giving her a purse full fraught with Gold in recompense of her pains past, and to entice her to undertake more, he said as followeth.  
Good Adellena be not dismayed to prosecute my suit for Artesias first frown, for I am not Ornatus man, but poor Ornatu● himself, that languish with desire to attain her love, which I would myself prosecute, if the discords betwixt our parents did not hinder the same. Therefore I beseech you once again do something in my behalf, for you see how cruel destiny hath shut me from all means to be put in practice by myself, and you may pleasure me without any hazard at all: for which I will rest so thankful unto you, as that you shall account your pains taken well bestowed.  
Sir replied she, I would undertake any thing to further you, if I kn●w which way, but I perceive Artesias frowardness is such, that nothing I shall bring her will be welcome: but if you will advise me what I shall do, I will once again hazard the loss of her good liking for your sake. Which said, Ornatus wrote a Letter, which he desired her by some means to convey to her sight, the contents whereof were these.  
To the fair Artesia.  
FAirest of creatures, be not offended with my boldness, but rather favourably censure of my good meaning: for being bound to honour none but most virtuous, I thought it my duty to give you knowledge thereof, desiring you to pity the extremity of my passions, procured by the attainture of your conquering perfections. I confess you may allege many things as reasons, to dissuade you from giving credit to my speeches, or yielding me the least favour in your conceits: yet I beseeeh you, make but trial of loyalty, love, and duty, so far as shall agree with your liking, and you shall find me constant in the one, and perseverant in the other, as one that hath submitted himself to your command, vowed his devotions to purchase your favour, and everlastingly bound himself to be only yours: unable to express my humble meaning: unwilling to be offensive, and desirous of favour: then I beseech you be favourable to me, though bearing the name of an enemy, in whom you shall find the true heart of a constant friend, whose safety, comfort, and preservation, resteth in your power. The first view of your beauties (which was in the valley when you were last hunting) surprised my heart with such humble regard to your virtue, that ever since my heart hath endured the bitter torments of fearful despair, which urgeth me to this presumption, desiring from your sacred lips to receive my sentence of comfort, or affliction, rather than to spend my life in languishing unrevealed torment. Then be you gracious to him, that is otherwise most miserable, and show favour to an undeserving unknown friend, so shall you not only show that you are merciful, but also save a miserable lover from utter ruin.  
Your humble friend Ornatus.  
Adellena having received this Letter, told him she would deliver the same, which the next day she performed in this sort: Being come to Arbastus house, she continued most part of the day in Artesias company, not once renewing the least remembrance of the talk she had with her the day before, but espying her open her Casket wherein she put her works, whilst Artesia was busy, she privily conveyed the Letter unseen into the same, which by and by Artesia locked, for none but herself had the use thereof.  
Adellena thought long till she was gone fearing lest Artesia should upon some occasion open the Casket again, and so find the Letter, whilst she were there, therefore she soon found means to depart. When the time of rest was come, and Artesia alone in her bed, taking a book (according to her usual manner) to read a while, she suddenly fell a sleep, and in her sleep was possessed with a dream, wherein her thoughts called to remembrance adellena's speeches, which moved such a disquiet conceit of anger in her breast, that thinking she had chid her, with the motions of her spirits she awaked, feeling and exceeding distemperature in all her parts, and seeing the light still burning, she marveled at her drowsiness that had before forgot to put the same out, and by this means called to remembrance adellena's speeches, marveling what he should be that was in love with her, and suddenly again, reproving herself for giving her mind liberty to think of love, she would have banished all further remembrance thereof out of her mind, but the more she laboured, the more unable she was to prevail in overmaistring her fancies, that being both vexed with herself, and Adellena, she uttered these speeches.  
What disquiet is this possesseth my heart, procureth such unwonted cogitations to rise in my fancies, and disturbeth my rest? I was not wont to trouble my thoughts with such vain cogitations, which the more I labour to suppress, the more they increase.  
Could adellena's speeches have such force (which I had well-nigh forgotten) as thus long to stick in my remembrance? Or what reason have I to regard them that were not worth the regarding? but rather tended to demonstrate the affection of some overfond lover, that seeks to entrap my chastity? Accursed be her lips for uttering them, and would to God I had been deaf that I might not have heard their enchanting sound.  
This said, she catched up her Book, thinking by reading to drive away all remembrance thereof, but her heart was so fully possessed with a kind of cogitation what he should be, that she neither could read, or when she did read, remember what she did read: and finding this means not available, she started from her bed, opening her Casket to take out her sampler, wherein she took most delight, when suddenly she espied the Letter, and reading the superscription, was half astonished thereat, especially how it should come there, and what the contents should be, being oftentimes in mind to tear the same in pieces and not to read it, which her heart would not suffer her to do before she had seen what was the contents: yet striving to overmaster her affections, she tore the same in the midst: which done, such a remorse rose in her fancy, united with a desire to know further thereof, that leaping into the bed, she closed the same together, and betwixt a willing and unwilling mind, red the same throughout. With that, fetching a deep sigh, she said: Ay me poor soul, how are my affections betrayed to mine enemy? Was it Ornatus she meant? can it be that he will prove my friend, that is my professed enemy? O no: he intendeth nothing less than love, but rather under colour thereof, seeketh my ruin. Was it he that I beheld in the valley? or it is possible that he should be so deeply in love with me upon that small sight? No, no, I will not credit his speeches, but still repute him as an enemy, as indeed he is: and henceforward abandon adellena's company, by whose means this Letter was conveyed into my Casket: then tearing the same into a thousand pieces, she abstained (so near as she could) from all thought of yielding the least consent to love, and sought to increase her disdain, and suspect of his falsehood, spending the rest of that night in confused contrarieties of doubtful thoughts. Early in the morning she got up, and within short time met with Adellena (who was come as desirous to know what issue her devise had taken) and ●●ading occasion fit when none was by, she uttered these speeches.  
Adellena, I marvel what folly ruleth your mind, that you (whom I had thought had been virtuously given) should seek my ruin: wherein have I shown myself so unkind, that you should requite me in this discourteous sort? You remember the speeches passed betwixt us the other day in the Garden, when I finding out your intent by your speeches, desired you to give over to use any more talk to that effect, which you faithfully promised, but now most unfaithfully have broken, and more impudently have betrayed my quiet with your disquiet & ill sounding news: if your rudeness had been such that you could not desist, you might then have delivered Ornatus false and feigned enchantment into my hands, and not so secretly have conveyed the same into my Casket, wherein you have made me amends for my love, to seek to betray my life into the hands of mine enemy: for otherwise I neither can nor will esteem him. Therefore henceforwards come no more into my company, for I forswear your familiarity, hate your counsel, and will cause my father to banish you his house, and alienate his friendship from you for ever.  
Adellena would have answered, but Artesia refusing to hear her, departed, and left her so much grieved, that for extreme vexation, she immediately departed towards her own house.   

CHAP. FOUR How Ornatus despairing, left his father's house, and disguising himself, was entertained of Arbastus.  
ORnatus desirous to hear how Artesia had accepted his Letter, came to adellena's house, and found her weeping for anger, desiring to know the cause thereof, which she declared to him at large, which wrought such an exceeding passion of grief in his mind, that without yielding her either thanks for her pains or other speech, he departed: being so much overcome with inward sorrow, that finding a solitary place, he laid himself down upon the earth, uttering these lamentations.  
O miserable castiffe, what hast thou to do but lament when thy ill fortune yields nothing but cause of lament? Why should thy life last to endure these torments, and not rather to dissolve into unseen essences? Could any thing have happened to me more miserable, then to behold Artesia, and now to endure her cruelty? or more fortunate, if she had been merciful? But my Destinies have drawn me to like her that hateth me, and to become thrall to a cruel unrelenting enemy. Well, my love is sweeter than my life, and therefore I will venture life and all to purchase her liking.  
Having said this, he a while sat silent, when suddenly to favour his extremities, he beheld certain of his familiars pass by, with whom he departed home.  
Early the next morning (being exceedingly troubled in mind and impatient of delay) he l●st his father's house to visit Adellena again, whom he had the day before left so unkindly, whom he found ready to go to Arbastus house again: saluting her, said: Adellena, be not offended at my last unmannerly departure, for my heart was so much disquieted at the ill success my suit took, that I could not use that behaviour towards you your pains deserved, but now I am returned to crave your counsel what is further to be done herein.  
Sir replied she, I know not what further means to use, neither dare I any more attempt to try artesia's courtesy, who is already so much offended with me, that I fear to lose her friendship for ever, if I should utter that again that is so unwelcome to her.  
Ornatus hearing her speeches, thought she was unwilling to prosecute his suit any further, with a heavy heart left her, entering into many thoughts and cogitations which way to comfort himself. Oftentimes utterly despairing, and yet purposing to leave no means unassaied, nor danger unattempted, though with hazard of his life to purchase some rest to his troubled heart.  
At length he thought with himself what should make Artesia so hard hearted as to give no credit to my speeches: it is not her want of lenity, pity, or wisdom, for she is young, and therefore subject to love: beautiful, and therefore to be won wise, and therefore will with consideration pity my sorrows. What then should alienate her good liking from me, more than from an other? My Name: for by that she reputeth me an enemy: then were I not Ornatus, she would peradventure give some regard to my suits. Therefore I will change my name, and be an other than I am, that she not knowing me, may (if not love me) yet desist to hate me: then began he to study what means to use to enjoy her sight (without the which he could not live,) and yet not be known what he was. Amongst many other devices, this took deepest root. Within few days after (having provided all things necessary) he attired himself like a virgin of a strange Country (which he might well be esteemed to be by his youth.) And taking with him his Lute, whereon he could play exceedingly well, in the silent of the night he departed towards the sea coast, which was near unto Arbastus house: and seating himself upon the Rocky shore, began to play upon his Lute. Early the next morning, a shepherd happened to pass by that way, and espying his strange disguise, and hearing his sweet Music, was so exceedingly delighted therewith, that he stayed to see what he was.  
Ornatus turning himself about, espied the old man stand gazing upon him, wherewith he drew towards him, and said as followeth.  
Good Father, muse not to see me in this unfrequented place, being by shipwreck cast on this shore, and preserved from a grievous death by sea, to perish for want of comfort on the land, in a strange place, where I neither have friends, nor know which way to get comfort. Therefore I beseech you, yield comfort to my distress, and succour ●o my want. Fair damosel quoth the shepherd, if my homely Cottage can yield you any comfort, so please you to accept thereof, it shallbe at your command, whither so please you go, without more circumstance of speeches, you shall be most heartily welcome. I thank you quoth Ornatus, and I accept your gentle proffer; so they departed together. And when they were entered, and the shepherdess in the best manner she could had welcomed him, and he had tasted of such food as was set before him, he told them his name was Syluia, and telling a tale of sufficient countenance to bear credit of the manner of their shipwreck, and the cause he undertook that voyage by Sea. Which the old folks believed▪ Likewise framing himself to such a kind of behaviour, that it was almost impossible to discern but that he was a woman indeed.  
Where Syluia (for under that name he shall a while pass) stayed some two days, yet without any hope how to enjoy artesia's company. But the third day it fortuned Arbastas being abroad hunting, was by a violent storm driven to seek shelter, and must fortunately lighted on the shepherds Cottage, where he boldly entered without calling, and suddenly espying Syluia, was half astonished to behold a damosel so beautiful and richly attired in that homely place, but after that he had a while viewed her well, (Syluia being alone) with a courteous behaviour he thus spoke.  
Fair damosel, pardon my boldness, if I have disquieted you, I little thought to have found such guests in this homely place. Syluia knowing him to be Arbastus, arose, but made him no answer: when presently the old shepherd came in, using great reverence to Arbastus, who demanded of him, what damosel that was, whereupon the old man declared all that he knew.  
Arbastus then thus said: damosel, I understand by this shepherd some part of your misfortunes, which I so much pity, that offer to do any thing resteth in me to do you pleasure. And for that this homely place is not agreeable to your birth, which may be greater than I can judge of, let me desire you to accept of such entertainment as my habitation yieldeth, whither you shall be welcome. Syluia being glad of that proffer, yet fearing to be discovered by his willingness to yield, made this answer. Sir, this homely place is best agreeing to my poor estate, being by misfortune brought to misery: which I am also unworthy of, for that I know not how to make my host amends, desiring rather to live in this quiet palace void of care, then in places of more dignity: but for that I shall be too chargeable to this poor man, and you so earnestly desire me, I will be so bold as to take your proffer, though unable to be so grateful as I would. Many other speeches passed betwixt them, and in the end they departed towards Arbastus Castle: where Syluia was kindly and worthily entertained, having his hearts desire, which was to enjoy the sight of fair Artesi●.  
Ornatus being alone by himself, began to meditate of the good success he had in this attempt, and how fortunately all things had fallen out to further him in his love. But most of all he marveled how the eyes of all that beheld him were blinded, that they could not perceive what he was. In these & many such like comfortable meditations he spent some three or four days, taking most great content in beholding artesia's perfections, that he was more and more enthralled in the bands of vowed affection, hearing her speech, noting her behaviour, admiring her virtue, commending her courtesy, affecting her beauty, and imprinting each lineament of her divine torme, in his devoted affection, with such immovable resolve of constant loyalty, that he did not only love her, but also honour her as an I doll, being by Arbastus admitted her company, that at all times he was with her. Artesia likewise took no little pleasure in Syluians company, in whom so much courtesy abounded, that every one both liked and commended her.   

CHAP. V. How Adellena brought news to Arbastus house of Ornatus sudden depature. How he naming himself Sylvian, a long time enjoyed her company, and what success he had in his love.  
ADellena having heard of Ornatus departure from his father's house, and of the exceeding care and grief his parents took, fearing lest he might by some treachery be murdered, with which news she came to Arbastus house, and soon published the same, that the news came to Arbastus hearing who was exceedingly sorry to hear the same, for that he esteemed well o● Ornatus. And now coming into the garden where Artesia was walking with Sylvian, she could not withhold herself from speaking, but uttered her mind in these words.  
Artesia be not offended with that I say, but rather be displeased with yourself, who are the original of this woe. Ornatus whom you supposed your enemy, though indeed your most faithful friend, taking your unkind refusal most heavily, and accounting himself not worthy to live if you despised him, either hath wrought his own untimely death, or despairing to find favour at your hands, hath abandoned both this parents, country and acquaintance, to live in exile. What will be said of you when the cause of his sorrow's shall be known? how may your own conscience accuse yourself of hard-hartednesse, that would not yield pity to the distress of so worthy, virtuous, & courteous a Gentleman, who for his humble suit, was spitefully disdained, and his hearty good will, disdainfully rejected? Which cruel deed of yours, no doubt will be one day repaid with the like disdain, where you shall most affect. I know his love was firm, constant and immovable, which maketh me so much the more pity his estate: I know his meaning was both virtuous & honourable, his birth you know, what virtues abounded in him, all can witness: and how heartily he loved you, the heavens can witness. Poor Ornatus farewell. Hard was thy hap, to place thy true love so firmly, where thou reapest so little reward. Artesia hearing her speeches, could not tell whether she might blame her, or accuse herself, sometimes doubting whether she spoke this of policy to try her, or of truth. Being as ready to blame herself, as Adellena, and yet willing to do neither. For she thought if she spoke true, she had good cause to say that she did, and herself more to be blamed then any. For notwithstanding she had given Adellena so flat a denial, yet her conscience knew, that some sparks of love were kindled in her breast: That her heart being somewhat oppressed with these thoughts, caused the water to stand in her eyes. Ornatus seeing all this, took no little comfort thereat, especially when he perceived Artesias heart to relent, but for that by his disguise, being known no other than a woman, he kept silence, when sane he would have spoke, lest he should discover himself. Adellena seeing she had disquieted Artesia, being herself full of grief, and unwilling to urge her any further, departed. And Artesia withdrawing herself from Syluians company, into an Arbour, uttered these speeches. And can it be that Ornatus love was so great, that for my sake he hath done this? Could he love her so constantly that was his professed enemy? is love of such a force, to draw one into these extremes? Then may I compare it to the herb Artas, found in Persia, who being but holden in the hand, causeth a heat through all the body: so love but entertained in thought, disquieteth all the senses. But why do I conceive so well of Ornatus, when I know not the truth of adellena's report: it may be he hath hired her to do this, and thereby I may be deceived, yielding to pity, when there is no cause, and with the bird Akanthu●, ready to come at every call. Admit it were so, I am not bound to favour him, is he not my enemy, & son unto my father's chiefest foe? what reason then have I either to give credit to his love, or her protestation, when both may be feigned? Well I will be advised before I yield myself to loves entangling baits, and before I love, I will know whom I love. I but Artesia thy fancy yieldeth remorse already, and thy conscience bids thee pity him because he loveth thee, for love in a reputed enemy may be as constant and loyal as in an open friend, and an enemy becoming friend, will be the more constant: then what hast thou to do, but make further proof of his constancy, and finding him true, yield reward to his desert? Soft Artesia, wade not too far: if he be constant, if he be loyal, if he love thee so entirely, if now thou hast made him forsake this country, or procure his untimely death, then is there nothing else to be done for thee, but to pity his death, and accuse thyself of some discourtesy. All this while Ornatus shrouding himself from her sight, by the thickness of the green leaves heard her speeches, to his exceeding comfort, and again closely withdrew himself. Artesia having ended her speeches, her heart being oppressed with many doubts, arose and came to Sylvian, to whom she said: My mind is much troubled with the news Adellena told me of Ornatus absence, whom for that you know not, I will tell you what he was.  
There dwelleth not far hence, one Allinus, that mortally hateth my father, and all that belong unto him, whose son Ornatus was, whom if I should commend, you might think me too cruel to refuse his love so unkindly: only thus much I will say of him, he was every way worthy to be beloved, though my fancy could never be drawn to like of him: who upon what occasion I know not, but as Adellena told me, made his love known to her, which she likewise told me of, but I refusing to hear her, answered her plainly, that I was greatly offended with her, for making any such motion: and forbade her for ever to speak of him again. But now this day you have heard what she hath told me, which I can hardly believe to be true, or that Ornatus would be so rash without wisdom to enter into such extremes. But if it be so (as I would it were not) it grieveth me for him, and I wish that I had not refused to hear his suit, though I am not willing to yield thereto. For I would not have it said of me, nor my name so much blazed, that my cruelty procured him to that extremity, though his wisdom might have foreseen such mischief, and he more moderately have tempered his love.  
Ornatus taking occasion said, I neither know the gentleman, nor how constant his love was, but thus much my mind persuadeth me, that had not his love been great, he would not have grieved so much at your unkindness: but love is of this force, that it turneth the mind into extremes, or utterly breaketh the heart, which force belike it had in him, else would he not have done himself so much h●rme. But it may be (as you say) Ornatus hath not done himself outrage, but only abandoning company, liveth in despair, and so meaneth to die: which if it be so, then in my fancy, you might do well to let him by some means understand that you did pity him Stay there quoth Artesia, you must first know whether I can do it or no: for If I should say I pity with my lips, and he not find it so, it would drive him to more despair, and therefore I will leave off to do that, until I can find whether I can do so or no.  
These her speeches drove Ornatus into a perplexed doubt what to think, being no way assured o● her love, nor yet utterly despairing thereof, for that her speeches gave likelihood of both. Therefore he durst not speak too boldly, lest she should suspect him, but only rested in good hope to find comfort, and by other means to try her.  
Then taking his Lute, he began to play so sweetly, as would have ravished a comfortless mind, with great content: to hear which harmony pleased Artesia so well, that when he left, she would request him, calling him Sylvian, to play again. Whilst he sat playing, Artesia sitting close by his side, fell fast a sleep, which he perceiving, left of his play, to surbet himself with beholding her sweet beauty, in which he took such delight, as almost ravished his senses, sometimes thinking whilst she slept, to imprint a kiss upon her sweet ruddy lip, but fearing thereby to wake her, and lose that delightful contemplation, he desisted, beholding each part of her visible form, which was most divine, his mind was affected with inward suppose, what perfections her hidden beauties did comprehend, which his fancy persuaded him, he did in conceit absolutely contemplate. Then seeing her stir, he suddenly catched his lute again, striking his sweet note, to continue her in that slumber, and then again, laying by the same, to enter into his former contemplation. Comparing his delight to exceed all heavenly joy, and wishing though Artesia could not love him, yet that she would always grant him so to behold her.  
When he had a good while continued in these meditations, Artesia awoke, which somewhat grieved him, but when he beheld her beauteous eyes fired upon him, he thought himself enriched with a heavenly happiness, to whom A●tesia said, I thank thee good Sylvian, for thy sweet music hath somewhat eased my heart, by this quiet sleep. O what content do they enjoy, that live void of care, and how happy was I before I heard Ornatus name? With that she arose, and there together went in: when night approached (which Ornatus thought so soon come, for by that he must lose artesia's sight) every one betook themselves to their several lodgings.  
Ornatus studying what means to use to further his love, wherein he found many difficulties, sometimes in thinking Artesia was in hope never to hear of him again, and sometimes supposing she did pity him, and being overcome with contrarieties of doubts, he uttered these complaints.  
What should I do to procure my content, when my miseries are one way great, & my joys as exceeding: when my despair exceedeth, and yet ●y comfort aboundeth? I enjoy not artesia's love, yet she loveth me not: I enjoy her sight, and yet not her sight. I have as much comfort as fills me with joy, & yet I am desperate with despair. How can that be? She loveth me as I am Sylvian, but hateth me, because she loveth not Ornatus. Under the name of Sylvian, I enjoy her sight, but not as Ornatus, and so am I deprived of her sight. I reap exceeding comfort by beholding her beauty, but I live in despair, that she would shun love if she knew what I were. Though I enjoy many things by being Sylvian, yet am I deprived of all comfort, as I am Ornatus. For she deemed him either dead or fled, hath no hope ever to see him, and if I should show any sign that he were living or near, she would presently eschew my company: which being as I am, I may enjoy: & thus am I void of all means of attaining her love, yet living as I am, I shall still enjoy her love. Why Ornatus, thou hast better means to give her knowledge of thy love in this disguise, then if thou livedst as Ornatus. Suppose thou shouldest make known to her what thou art, thinkest thou she would bewray thee, considering thou offerest no other behaviour towards her, then that which agreeth with virtue? Or what if she did betray thee, wert thou not better to indare the greatest extremity by her don, then pine away with grief in her absence? Yes Ornatus, in being as thou art, thou art more happy, and therefore mayest thou be in some better hope of comfort. What if she will not love thee, yet for thy good will she cannot hate thee. And though she know what thou art, she will rather conceal thee, then bewray thee then try whether she loveth thee or no, but how? Make myself known.  
No. I will write a letter, which I will leave in some place where she may find it, and so by that means I shall see whether she will love or no. And taking pen Ink and paper, he wrote as followeth.  
To the most virtuous Artesia, the forsaken Ornatus sendeth humble greeting.  
WEre you but so merciful as fair, I would not despair of pity. Or were you willing to know my truth and loyalty, you would though not yield to my suit, yet pity me. I cannot use protestations, nor dissemble grief: but be you most assured, that what proceedeth out at my lips, cometh from my heart: xtremitie maketh me overbolde, and despair maketh me more desperate, in uttering my mind: I cannot choose but say I love you, for that I love indeed. I cannot set forth my love with filed terms, but in plain truth, protest that my love is constant, loyal, virtuous, & immovable: and though you hate, I must love: and though you for ever deny to love, yet will I persist in constancy: for the worst I can endure is death: and that my soul already inwardly feeleth. I have forsaken my parents, friends, and all to become acceptable to you: for whilst I was Allinus son, you did hate me, than I beseech you, now that I am not Allinus son, nor Ornatus, pity me. For without your pity I die, & little can my death profit you: but letting me live, you shall for ever enjoy a faithful servant. So most virtuous Artesia, I commit my cause to your wise consideration.  
Your inseparably, neither Ornatus, nor himself, but your poor servant.  
When he had written this Letter, and sealed the same, the next morning he laid it in a place of the garden, where he know Artesia would walk. And from thence coming to her chamber, he found her ready to go forth.  
Artesia welcomed Syluia kindly, and forth they went together, and walking up and down a pretty while, Artesia espied the white paper, and desirous to see what it was, took it up, reading the superscription, marveled what the contents should be, and how it should come there, and turning to Sylvian, see you this letter, it is directed to me, I marvel how it should come here, unless it were laid of purpose: well howsoever that was, I will read the contents, and you shall be partaker of them. When she had red the same, and well understood that it was Ornatus, at the first she was so exceedingly v●xed, that she said: I now perceive, that Ornatus was wiser than I took him to be, for I see he hath committed no outrage upon himself, but wisely will try me first, and if I will not yield to love him, what will he do? marry return to his father again. This is adellena's doing, and according as I thought they are agreed: she left this letter here, and her may I blame, and not him. For did not she promise him to do it, he would never of himself attempt it. Sylvian I pray thee counsel me, what I should do herein, for my heart is oppressed with many thoughts, that I will not utter until I know thy mind?  
Sylvian thus answered: since you have given me licence to speak that which my heart thinketh, first I say, i● Ornatus loveth according as he protesteth, as no doubt but he doth, you have good reason to pity him, for that by your own report, he is every way worthy thereof, which if you do, you shallbe sure of a constant friend, preserve his life, and make unity betwixt your parents. As for Adellena, if it were her deed, she did but the part of a friend, but it was very unlikely, for that she was not here since yesterday. Neither can I think any man can dissemble so much as to make these protestations, and yet be false. For his words in my fancy, bear an evident likelihood of truth. Therefore, if I may counsel you, yield to that which is virtuous, and in so doing, you shall purchase your own good, his content, and perpetual quiet to both your families.  
Would you have me then (quoth she) yield to love mine enemy? How is he your enemy (quoth Sylvian) when he loveth you? He is mine enemy, because his father hating me, how can he love me? Nay rather (quoth Sylvian) his father not loving you, how can he choose but love you, because he seeth them hate you, that are worthy to be beloved: besides their hatred being unjust, it showeth his virtue the more, to love those his parents hate: and it is commonly seen, where there is hatred betwixt the parents, the children have loved most dearly, as in common experience it is seen: have you not red the Histories of Pryamus and Thysbe, Romeo and juliet, and many other? whose love was the more constant, by so much the more their parent's hatred was deadly.  
I remember such Histories (quoth Artesia) but what was the end of their love, was it not most miserable? I grant it was, (quoth Sylvian) which was procured by their parent's cruelty, but not their love, wherein, notwithstanding, they took such felicity, that they rather chose to die together then to be parted: which argueth, that the enmity twixt parents, cannot break off love twixt the children, yet might such tragical events have been prevented by wisdom. But how know I (said Artesia) whether Ornatus love be so constant or no? Can you have any greater proof thereof, than his own letters, the forsaking of his parents, and living peradventure in penury: but if you doubt of that, once again try him. Well (said Artesia) I asked but thy counsel, but in stead thereof, thou usest persuasion: but seeing thou art so forward to do me good, which I hope is thy intent, if thou wilt keep my counsel, thou shalt know both my mind, and what I intent. Assure yourself (quoth Sylvian) I will rather lose my life then prove unfaithful. Then said she, I confess to thee Sylvian, that love hath made entrance into my heart, that I would willingly both pity Ornatus, and grant him his request: for that with often remembering him, I cannot forget him, neither doth any thought please me, but when I think of him. But there are so many slips to hinder our love, that though I love him, I shall never enjoy him. For should my parents know hereof, they would pry so warily into my actions, that it were impossible for me once to have a sight of him, whom I do scarce remember, I have so seldom seen him. You may (quoth Sylvian) both love him, and enjoy him, and since you have begun to like of him, he being worthy thereof, and equalling you in affection, increase that love: & might I but once come to speak with him, I would not doubt but ●ffect all things with such secrecy, that you should with quiet enjoy him.  
Well quoth Artesia, I commit all to you, my life, for that dependeth on my love, being willing to do any thing that shall not disagree with modesty. Destring you to keep my counsels secret, for to bewray them, may endanger both his and my life.  
After many other speeches passed betwixt them, Adellena entered the garden. Artesia espying her, at the first thus gréeted her. God-morrowe Adellena, I know not whether I may salute thee as a friend, or a privy foe, for that by thy means I am brought into bandage.  
I pray thee tell me without dissembling (which I fear me thou canst do too well) when thou sawest Ornatus? and yet I know thy answer before I ask. Dost thou not know this letter? didst thou not hide it in this garden, that I might find it? did not Ornatus hire thee to say, that he was departed from his fathers, whilst he lieth at home in thy house? I know thy aunswer● will be no: but how may I believe that? Dost thou not likewise say he loveth me when thou knowest the contrary, and dost but dissemble? If thou harbourest any virtue in thee, tell me the truth and dissemble not? for in doing so, thou shalt greatly con●ent me, discharge thy conscience, and peradventure do Ornatus a good turn.  
Adellena hearing her speeches, was so astonish at their strangeness, that for a good while she stood as one senseless, but at the last, she made this answer. Your demands are such, as that I know not how to answer them: but heavens punish me, if I dissemble. I saw not Ornatus since the time he came to me, to know how you accepted the letter I conveyed into your Casket. For that Letter I am altogether ignorant therein, neither did I ever see the same before now: I never spoke with Ornatus, saw Ornatus, or heard from him since I last gave him your answer: neither do I know where he is: but this I know, that he is not to be found: but poor Gentleman, languisheth in love, which I dare protest, loveth you most dearly, neither need you misdoubt that he is absent, or think that he is hidden at my house, for it is too true, he hath taken such grief at your unkindness, as will I fear me endanger his life.  
I would it were not so, but that he were at my house, than would I counsel him rather to forget to love, then endanger his life thereby.  
May I believe (quoth Artesia) that this thou sayest is true? heavens let me live no longer (quoth Adellena) if I dissemble. Then (quoth Artesia) how should this Letter be conveyed into this garden, but by himself? With that the Crystal tears fell from her eyes.   

CHAP. VI how Ornatus love was hindered by the news of Arbastus death. How Floretus to attain Sylulans love, both confessed he slew Arbasius, and intended to poison Artesia.  
TO augment artesia's tears, a messenger hastily running, came in and brought this news, uttering the same with a ghastly countenance.  
O Artesi●, hear my tragic discourse, your Father as you know, road forth this morning to chase the fearful Dear, who wandering from his company, at last by his long stay was missed, and all of us coming together, studied amongst ourselves, what should be become of him, at last we were commanded by Floretus your Uncle, to post several ways in search of him: whom at last we found most grievously wounded and dead. Artesia hearing his words, with sudden grief, fell down dead. Which when Sylnian perceived, caught her in his arms, rubbing her pale cheeks, until she was revived again. Then they conveyed her to her bed, in such extremity with that sudden grief, that they feared to lose her life, which exceedingly tormented Sylvian to behold. Then was there such an uproar in Arbastus house, as all seemed in utter despair, one conjecturing this, an other that of Arbastus death, but all in general concluding, that it was done by Allinus in revenge of his brother's death.  
Arbastus wife, likewise conceived such sorrow at this unexpected event, that with very grief thereof she died. Artesia with both together, was ready to yield up her latest breath, and had done so, had she not been carefully preserved by Sylvian, and Adellena. Who by their counsel and endeavours, pacified the extremity of her perplexity. This news was soon spread into most places of the country: but because there was no just proof of the murderer, there was no great question made thereof: Arbastus having never a trusty friend to prosecute revenge. Floretus now took upon him to rule and govern all that belonged to Arbastus, as his brother, and soon caused him and his Lady to be worthily interred, and built a sumptuous monument in their remembrance. Which being overpast, he came again to Artesia, (as in the mean time he had oftentimes done) and finding her very weak, used many speeches to comfort her, giving such as were about her special charge, to minister all things necessary to restore her to her former health: Seeming to be most careful of her guard, promising and protesting to be unto her instead of a Father.  
Sylvian all this while was exceedingly grieved in mind to see his love grown so weak, and in such danger of life, not once forsaking her in all the time of her sickness, but continually comforting her with hearty speeches, careful tendance, not so much as once departing her chamber, but taking exceeding pains to pleasure her, that she took great comfort in her supposed Sylvian, who oftentimes would steal a sweet kiss from artesia's lips, which she permitted, taking the same to proceed from a courteous mind, when Sylvian did it of deep affection: accounting the estate wherein he lived, to exceed all joys, and his delight past compare, proffering many familiarities that Artesia took in kind part, which otherwise she would have refused, had she known whom her companion Sylvian had been. Ornatus marveled that all this time she spoke not of him, which he devised to urge her to do, by many occasions: but these extremities had banished all remembrance of him out of her mind: Which exceedingly tormented Ornatus, fearing this delay would some way turn to his ill. That whereas before time, he was pleasant, merry, and oftentimes would move Artesia to mirth by his disport, now that humour was alienated, and he became continually melancholy and sad, oftentimes when Artesia was from him, getting into a solitary place, to bewail his hard fate. Which she noted and wondered at, thinking the same had proceeded from being so long absent from his country and friends. One day she found her deemed Sylvian solitary alone, and coming unawares, heard her utter these words. Oh how unhappy am I, to love and not to be beloved.  
Sylvian espying her, left off: to whom Artesia said. Why how now Sylvian, are you in love, can it be, that your mind is attainted with that venomous serpent, that poisoneth the senses, altereth the complexion, & troubleth the head and heart? Shake it off, and cast it out of your sight, for it never did any good, but hath brought many to perpetual misery.  
Since you have overheard me (quoth Sylvian,) I must needs confess I am in love, which doth not any way work any such effect in me as you speak off, but I take all comfort therein, my senses, heart, head, & all my parts, take exceeding pleasure therein. Why then (quoth Artesia) sit you thus pensively alone, as it seemeth to me bewailing your estate to be in love? I do not (quoth Sylvian) sorrow that I am in love, but that I am not beloved again: for being in love, I have vowed to live so ever, and sooner shall end. What hard-hearted man (said Artesia) is he the knowing you love him, will not love you again? Such is my har● estate (said Sylvian) that the party whom I love, knoweth I love, and yet causelessly doth hate me: neither am I far absent from him, but enjoy his company, without which, my life would decay. Is he in this house you love? can it be you are entangled since you came hither? No (quoth Sylvian) I loved before I came hither. How can that be, when you are a stranger, and cast in this country by shipwracker? either you must needs be some other than we take you for, otherwise, these things are impossible. But if you dare put trust in my secrecy, impart your mind to me: and I promise you I will do the best I can to further your love. You may do much therein (quoth Sylvian) and none more than yourself, but I beseech you pardon me for revealing the same, before you assure me of one thing, which you may do without any harm to yourself and be not offended with me if I ask you. Tell me what it is (quoth she) & I will answer you? Then (said Sylvian) I would first know whether you love Ornatus or no? With the she started? saying: Ay me, that name bringeth death to my heart, & thou woundest my souls with grief, to hear him named. Dost thou think I have cause to love & not rather above all men to hate him: dost thou not see my father lately murdered by him, or some by his appointment, and thinkest thou I can love so deadly a foe, by whom I am brought to this misery? No assure thyself Sylvian, according as I have just cause I do hate him, as the greatest enemy I have. Whose very name affrighteth me with terror, and if thou hadst loved me as I was persuaded thou didst, thou wouldst not have troubled my heart with that omnious name. And yet for all this mischief that he hath done me, didst thou not see how he sued for my love, and had so much prevailed, that my heart began to yield to his suit? With that she pulled out of her pocket the letter, saying: these lines the trutes of his dissimulation, were actors in his villainy: with that she tore them into a thousand pieces. Sylvian seeing the same, was ready to sound with grief, breathing forth a heart burning ●igh, said. O how is poor innocency suspected.  
And being ready to say more, was disappointed by Floretus coming, who even then entered the garden, and finding them out, used many courteous speeches to them both, especial comforting Artesia. To whom he said. Dear cousin, since these mishaps cannot be remedied, let wisdom now oversway your passionate sorrow: and with patience remit all further grief, for things past cure are not to be lamented: but now commit the care of your safety to my trustiness, the will as tenderly regard your good as mine own life. Therefore be of comfort, & whatsoever you desire, shallbe to the uttermost accomplished. Artesia yielded him many thanks, and so they went in. Artesia being alone by herself, could by no means forget what speech she had with Sylvian: either thinking she did dissembl●, or was some other than she seemed: or else that she was in love with Floretus. Then she remembered her speeches, saying. How is innocency suspected. Which she knew she spoke by her accusing of Ornatus▪ which brave her into many doubtful cogitotions, and troubled her senses exceedingly: but by reason of her little suspect of Syluians disguise, she could not judge any thing thereof. Sylvian likewise not daring to offend her, and loving her so dearly, that he could not endure to see her disquieted, used no more speeches tending to love, but frequenting her company wherein he took his whole fel●ci●ie, accounting himself most happy to live and enjoy her sweet presence, being out of hope to attain her love, refreshing his heart with many sollaces of sweet delight, in beholding that which she little thought he had noted.  
Many days continued Sylvian in this disguise, in which time, Arbastus death was almost forgotten. And Floretus drawn by Syluians manifold virtues, began exceedingly to affect her, showing such kind behaviour towards her, that she suspected that which afterwards she found true: for Floretus concealing his love, felt the flame to burn the more inwardly, and living in that scorching pennari●, thought it better for him to manifest his love, them by hiding the same, augment his torment. Assuring himself to obtain his desire, for that Sylvian was a stranger, far from friends, and without his friendship, likely to come to poverty, which he thought would be a means of importance to draw her to like of him: beside, he thought that he might do as he list with Artesia, for that she was only in his custody.  
And on a day finding Sylvian alone in the garden, coming to her with a submiss behaviour, he said as followeth. My dear● Sylvian I would gladly utter a matter of an importance, if you will vouchsafe me gentle audience: So it is fair damosel, that my heart hath long time been enthralled to your beauty, which I have retrained to utter, fearing to be refused: but knew you how faithfully my heart is devoted to your service, and with what torment I have concealed the same, you would pity me. My estate is sufficient to maintain you well, though not so worthily as you deserve: you shall live with me in contented ease, and have so faithful and constant a friend, as no torment nor affliction shall alter.  
Therefore I beseech you, let me receive some hope of comfort by your gentle speeches, which shall expel many cares from my troubled heart.  
Sylvian had much ado to abstain from smiling, to think how unfit he was so yield such a reward as Floretus expected: committing further consideration thereof, to time more convenient, gave him this answer. My mind sir is unapt to entertain love, considering how far I am from my country, and how soon I may be overtaken, therefore I pray you seek not that at my hands which I will not grant, but if with your favour I may live so quietly as since my coming I have done, I shall think myself more beholding to you for that; then for your porfered love, which I cannot yield unto, Floretus thinking her soft answer was a sign she would soon yield, still prosecuted his suit with earnestness, in so much th●t Sylvian told him that as yet she could not fancy him, because she had no trial of him, but that she would consider further thereof. And so for that time they parted. Floretus in hope to attain that which was not to be had, and Sylvian in hope by this means the sooner to attain artesia's love. First considering that Floretus had the disposing of her, and therefore he must please him: lest otherwise he might be deprived of her company. Then he began to think of Arbastus murder, knowing assuredly, that it was not acted by his father's counsel, but rather by some secret foe, that might as well be Floretus as any other, for that he was the next heir, if Artesia hindered him not: which conceit took such effectual instance in his fancy, that with that his suspect, beholding Floretus behaviour, countenance, and little inquiry for the murderer, he plainly inspected him, which by the divine providence, rather than by any evident proof, was stirred in his opinion. Such murder is never unrevealed, and though never so closely done, yet God by some extraordinary means or other revealeth the same. So came it to pass with Ornatus, although he was no war privy to any such act, or had any probability thereof, yet he thought that Floretus countenance bewrayed his treachery, and therefore he longed to have some conference with him, to see if he could gather the truth, whereby he thought both to discharge himself of that suspect Artesia had of him, and also when she saw his innocency and constancy, she might yield to love him: purposing to leave no means unattempted to try him: which he did the next time be spoke with him, in this sort.  
Early the next morning, Floretus not unmindful of his love which kept him from his sleep that night, never left till be had found Sylvian, and coming to her, with manifold submiss speeches, solicited his suit: whom Sylvian cunningly handled, still putting him in hope, and yet making him no promise, which set him the more on fire, being so far overgone with affection, that he purposely determined either to win her love, or hazard his own life, and to leave no meane● unattempted, were it never so dangerous, to procure his own content. That the more unwilling he saw Sylvian, the more importunate he grew. Till at last Sylvian said as followeth. Floretus I know no reason you have to be so importunate, when I see in you no token of fidelity: but once having attained your purpose, you will esteem me as lightly as easily won: beside, I see not wherein you can perform any such matter as you promise, for I being in a strange country, have nothing: and you for aught I see, as little: then by matching with you, I shall but bring myself to poverty, and misery, and then your love now so hot, will be as cold: and I as rejected, cast off to utter misery. Floretus not suffering her to proceed any further, made this answer. Sylvian do you not see A●bastus wealth, will not the be sufficient? the great possessions I now enjoy by him, are of substance to maintain you in all quiet, and yield you your hearts content. Arbastus wealth said Sylvian, that is A●tesiaes by right, then how can you possess the same she living? Do but grant me love, said he, and I will quickly satisfy you in that. I have a mean to get ●ll into mine own hands: and therefore I beseech you, let no such matter trouble your mind, but be assured, that in enjoying me, you shall have all happiness and quiet, by my humble, dutiful, and constant loyalty. Do but assure me of this (quoth Sylvian) and you shall know my resolution afterwards.  
Artesia entering the chamber, broke off their speeches, whose presence vexed Floretus at the heart, being scarce able to speak, by reason of his inward rancour: for indeed he hated Artesia, because she only kept him from possessing his brothers living: the want whereof, kept him from attaining Syluians love: therefore he resolved by some means to work her downfall which within short time he acquainted Sylvian withal by this occasion.  
One day finding her alone in a secret place in the garden, after many speeches passed betwixt them: whereby he perceived the chiefest things that hindered him, was his want of wealth, and after that Sylvian had in some sort made him a grant (only to try him,) he began to utter his intent in this sort. My dear Sylvian, I am so well persuaded of your virtue, and put such confidence in your trustiness, that I will reveal to you the very depth and secrets of my heart, would you but swear to keep my counsel: for to purchase your content, I have determined to put in practise a matter of secrecy, which concerneth my life to be revealed.  
Sylvian hearing that, thought it better to swear a thousand oaths and break them all, then by niceness to endanger the life of Artesia, which she supposed he aimed at promised him by many protestations, to keep secret whatsoever he told her: whereupon Floretus urged with hope to win her love, and emboldened in mischief, cared not what he did to attain his will, said as followeth. Sylvian, you see Arbastus is dead, which was one stop that kept me from enjoying great possessions, and my purpose is, so you will but vouchsafe to aid me therrin, to be rid of Artesia: and then all that belongeth to her by her father's death, shall be yours to dispose of. Syluians heart throbde to hear his speeches, but determining to sift him to the full, said as followeth. Floretus I am sure you speak this only to try me, and so entrap me, and not of any intent you have to perform the same, wherein you shall do me great wrong, and yourself no good: for I cannot believe you bear the least thought to do it. By heaven quoth he, it is my full intent, and for that you may be assured thereof, it was I that slew Arbastus, howsoever the matter is imputed to Allinus, and purpose likewise to be rid of Artesia, only for your sake.  
Therefore make no doubt of my resolution: for I am absolutely purposed to do it. (O thought Sylvian) rather shalt thou see my blood, then spill one drop of hers: why Floretus would you have me do any thing therein? You only may do it (quoth he) with more safety than any other, and the manner how is this.  
Within some mile from this Castle, Arbastus hath a banqueting house in his Park, where oftentimes he would for his recreation lie, whither I will persuade Artesia to go for a season to take the air, and to recreate her senses dulled with grief: and none but you to keep her company, and some two servants whose trustiness, I am assured of. This done, I will get a drink to be made, the force whereof, shall expel life, and yet by no means nor any cunning or skill be found out, when you shall think it most convenient give unto her: & being once dead, who will make any inquiry, but that she died of a natural sickness? and than you shall be mistress both of her heritage and myself. Sylvian said, when shall this be put in practice? Within these two days at the farthest said he: in the mean time frequent you artesia's company, in such familiar sort as heretofore you have done, and myself will use her with no less kindness. Many other speeches being passed betwixt them at that time, they parted.   

CHAP VII. How Ornatus told Artesia of Floretus intent, and upon what occasion he discovered himself.  
Floretus being by himself, began to consider how rashly he had committed his secrets to Sylvian, entering into these meditations; Doth Sylvian think that my policy exceedeth not her shallow capacity: poor simple stranger, she hath undertaken a matter of great importance for me, that mean nothing less than good will to her, she for my love hath promised to poison Artesia, and is likely that once done, to taste of the same sauce, for loved she me never so well, I will not trust her with my life, but peradventure she hateth me, and will reveal my drift to Artesia. No Floretus thou art deceived, she is so far in love that she doteth, and would I am sure to any thing at my request. What a world is this, what villainy can be intended, that some either for favour or reward, will not execute? If I should trust her that is so easily won to do such a heinous deed, might I not be accounted mad? yes, and therefore I will not trust her: Artesia being once dispatched, she shall follow next. Ornatus on the contrary part, was glad that he had felt the depth of Floretus counsel, thinking likewise that he was so far in love with him (taking him for a woman,) that for his sake he sought. artesia's death: which was the only means to help him attain her love, which he likewise determined to give her knowledge of, and discover himself, hoping that when she saw his innocency, his faithful love, and how by his means her life was preserved, she would yield him due guerdon for his good will. Whilst he was in the depth of those cogitations, he espied Artesia enter the garden, and taking his Lute, found her seated upon a flowery bank, under the shade of a myrtle tree, and perceiving that she was somewhat heavily inclined, he sat down by her, and with his sweet melody, brought her a sleep, when she had slept a good while, being exceedingly affrighted with a dream, she started up, looking earnestly upon Sylvian, saying; I pray thee Sylvian do not poison me. Sylvian seeing her so affrighted, was exceedingly amazed, and she herself not yet fully recovered, seemed to be afraid of him, till at last Sylvian said. I beseech you what is it that affrighteth you? O Sylvian said she, I dreamed thou wouldst have murdered me. heavens forbid (quoth he) that I should attempt to heinous a deed: But would you vouchsafe to hear my tragic report, you should be rid of that doubt, though Sylvian is much tempted to do such a deed: who esteem your life more dearer than mne own, and would rather with my own hands tear out my woeful heart, then think the least thought to wrong you. But because I have so fit occasion, and I hope your patience will permit me, I will rehearse a most monstrous and heinous intended mischief. The other day I remember you were exceedingly offended with me for naming Ornatus, for that you supposed him to be an actor in Arbastus death, but both he and Allinus are innocent, and far from any such thought, for your uncle Floretus was his murderer, which he told me himself: he hath been oftentimes importunate to win my love (which an other possesseth) but I suspecting as much as I now find to be true, held him of with this delay, that he had not wealth to maintain me. Which when I had often alleged, he told me all that belonged to Arbastus was his: then I demanded how that could be, since you were living? Quoth he, swear but to be secret, and I will tell you how, With that upon my protestations▪ he told me that he had murdered Arbastus, and meant to poison you: persuading me to consent thereto, for that he said, I only could do it: with that (I not purposing to do it, but to preserve you) promised him my uttermost assistance, which he told me should be done, in this manner. I will (quoth he) persuade Artesia, to forsake this Castle, and to sojourn some few days in a house Arbastus hath in his Park, where none but you & two others servants, whose secrecy I nothing doubt, shall keep her company, where I will give you such a potion, as shall end her life, and yet by no means be perceived, neither can there be any doubt thereof: for that I and none else am left of her kindred, to search the truth. This is the sum of that he told me. Artesia hearing her words, sat like one without sense a good space, being so far overcome with grief and fear, that she could not speak a word, but at the last burst forth into these lamentations. Ay me, unknde, and most unnatural Uncle, canst thou speak me so fair and intend me so much harm? Who would have thought so foul impiety, had been shrouded under so fair pretext? Couldst thou be so unnatural, as to murder thy own most natural loving and dear brother, and not contented with his tragedy, to seek my untimely death? What frenzy or folly doth possess thy breast, that I esteemed replete with virtue? How canst thou suffer so impious and heinous a thought to sink in thy breast, much less to act such a notorious outrage against him the loved thee as his life, & her that honoureth thee as her friend? O Sylvian, may I credit thy words, and not rather accuse thee, and excuse him? May I think him so simple, to trust thee with his secrets? no I fear me this is some policy invented by thee to some bad cud. Yet I pray thee pardon me: for what canst thou get by telling me so unless it were so? or not rather have kept his counsel, & then thou mightest have been my heir. And pardon I ask of thee good Ornatus, though thou art absent, for that I accused thee as accessary to my father's death, when thou art innocent. With that a flood of tears stopped the passage of her speech, & Sylvian said, Artesia, yet vouchsafe to hear my counsel, which shall prevent all these imminent evils. You may peradventure make some doubt of the truth, of that which I have spoken: but I take heaven to record, no word is false: for I regard your good above all things, and your quiet above mine own content: for should you die, I could not live: for by you I draw my breath. I dived into Floretus counsels, not to aid him, but to prevent them: for that I knew Ornatus was no way guilty of any such treason, but would have ventured his own life, to have preserved your Fathers, whom he both loved & honoured as himself. Of whom I could have told you more, but that fearing to offend you, & partly seeing how vehemently you accused him, I durst not, whose love is loyal, & thereon I will pawn my life. Sylvian (quoth Artesia) thou tellest me things of wonder, but especially the thou art so privy to Ornatu● thoughts, and the thou darest so boldly affirm he loveth me, when thou mayest be deceived. Most virtuous Artesia (quoth he) were you but so privy to the thoughts of his heart as I am, you would say as much as I, & believe all the I tell you: and to put you in assurance of what I know, I give you knowledge the I am Ornatus, that in the disguise have sought to attain your love: for which boldness, I most humbly beseech you to pardon me. With that a ruddy blush spread itself in artesia's cheeks, before pale with fear, being so much ashamed that he had been to privy to many of her actions, that she could not tell with what countenance to behold him. Then Ornatus said, I beseech you pity my sorment, which hath urged me to this boldness, being frustrated of other means to enjoy your presence: my meaning being no other than virtuous, but resting at your merciful disposition. Desiring you to put assured confidence in me, for preventing Floretu● intent, which you had not doubt of, for to my grief I know it to be so true.  
Artesia marveled exceedingly at the strangeness of these news, but most of all admired Ornatus love, which she could not tell how to reject, for that she both well knew, he deserved love, and the necessity of time was such, that her safety rested in his secrecy: yet being not willing at that instant to yield without further assault, said: I know not by what name to call you, when neither I know whether you are Sylvian or Ornatus, but which of both, your words bear great show of true friendship, which I fear me is not grounded in your heart, neither do I greatly care: for since my uncle seeketh my life, let him take it, for I am weary thereof.  
Let not your gentle heart (quoth Ornatus) make any doubt that I am Ornatus, though my counterfeit disguise doth show me other, but either vouchsafe me love, or give me leave to does for Artesia, for that potion that should dispatch you, shall end my life: for my life is bound to your command, and all my felicity resteth in your favour. Which unless you grant, my life without the same will be but short, and the time I have to live, an endless labyrinth of sorrow.  
Adellena by occasion entered the garden, and found Artesia weeping, and Sylvian in a heavy dumps, ready to torment himself to see her sorrow, but Artesia espying her, said: Adellena, dost thou love Ornatus; so much, as that thou wouldst hazard life and credit to do him good? for that I know him to be a most virtuous & honest Gentleman? I but wouldst thou quoth she keep my counsel if I reveal a secret of importance to you concerning Ornatus? And upon Adelleanas' promise, she said: do you know Ornatus if you see him? behold there he is. Adellena was at the first half astonished at her speeches: but at last she perfectly remembered that was he indeed: rejoicing most exceedingly to see him there, especially with Artesia. Then they declared unto her all that had happened, and of Floretus intent, desiring her to be secret, and make no show of discontent, lest he should suspect Sylvian had bewrayed his secrets: and after some other speeches past, they went in together.   

CHAP. VIII. How Artesia departed to the Lodge with Sylvian, and from thence secretly departed to adellena's house, and how Ornatus taken to be Sylvian, was by Floretus accusation, and Artesias want, banished.  
IT fell so out the next day, that the King with divers of his company, amongst whom was his only son and heir Lenon, being wearied with travel, arrived at Arbastus house, thinking to have found him there, but the King hearing of his sudden death, was exceedingly sorry, persuading himself as all men else did, that he was slain by some of allinus' house? which made him make small tarriance there, but departed to his Palace. Now it fortuned that Lenon beheld Artesias beauty, and was with the first view thereof, exceedingly bewitched, that after he was gone, he could by no means forget her? but determined ere long, to return to see if he could attain her love. Now the time was come that Floretus had appointed to set abroach his villainy, and (according as Ornatus had before told Artesia) he came to her, persuading her for a season to lie in the Country, which she as forearmed consented unto, and so the next morning, she with Sylvian, Floretus, and divers others, departed: at night Floretus returning, and leaving with her according as he had promised Sylvian, and only two servants that were to provide them necessaries, but knew no part of the conspiracy. When Ornatus and Artesia were alone together, for that she was undoubtedly assured of his love, faith and fidelity, she used these comfortable speeches to him. Ornatus, whereas always before this time too unkindly I have reputed you as a 〈◊〉, I now crave pardon, being sorry that my h●a●t hath done you so much wrong, which now I will requite with kindness. I carresse it was strange to me to entertain love, but now I willingly yield myself to be her subject, and your true and faithful friend: committing my life to your custody, and my love and self to be yours to dispose of. Ornatus hearing her speeches, was ravished with a heaven of joy, with a gentle and kind behaviour, folding her in his arms, and imprinting a sweet kiss upon her rosiate lips, he said. Never was poor wretch exalted to more happiness than I am, by being enriched with this inestimable treasure of your love. O how rich a reward have I now reaped for my cares, and what glory, joy or wealth, can be compared to the riches of your love? O heavenly Artesia, how fortunate have you made Ornatus? how have you blest Ornatus? how full of joy is Ornatus, by your sweet consent? was ever any so unworthy, so exalted, for his kindness and love? I will perform more than my tongue can utter, and be more faithful than your heart can wish. Then began they to embrace each other, and to surfeit themselves in the sollaces, true love yieldeth. He sometimes lending her a kiss, and she with interest paying two for one: for one sweet look two, and so many embracings as are not to be explicated: their hands and hearts joined in such firm bands of true affection, as is not to be dissolved: and surfeiting with such exceeding content, as is impossible to be described. These storms of love somewhat mittgated, they began to consult of their dangerous estate, and to devise how to prevent the intended mischief. In this place they continued some two days in exceeding content, still expecting to hear from Floretus: who the third day fearing to trust any with a matter of such weight, came himself to bring the potion, (yet in show of kindness to visit Artesia) delivering the same to Sylvian, willing her the next night to give it her, which she promised him faithfully to accomplish.  
When he was gone, Artesia came to Ornatus to know what news Floretus brought, who told her all, and showed her the poison in a glass, which he had charged should be given to her the next day. With that Artesia began to wail and exclaim against her Uncle, in most extreme sort. But Ornatus entreated her to cease such vain grief, which could not hurt him, but herself, promising her to prevent the same, if she would follow his counsel▪ which she willingly yielded unto. Then quoth he, let us presently depart hence to adellena's house, which you know is not far off, who you know is agreed with us already, where I will leave you, and return. Which said, while the servants were absent upon some special occasion, they departed with little labour, arriving at adellena's house, who was ready to receive them, and after many farewells, Ornatus returned back to the Lodge. And when it was supper time, the servants brought up meat, but Ornatus told them that Artesia was scarce well, and therefore they would not sup that night. And being alone by himself, he studied what excuse to make for artesia's absence, when Floretus should come, spending that night in much care, and many unquiet cogitations, which took away his sleep.  
Floretus was no sooner returned from the Lodge, but he met Lenon, who of purpose came to meet Artesia, whom Floretus kindly saluted: marveling much wherefore he came: to ease which doubt, Lenon said.  
My friend Floretus, I come to visit the fair Artesia, to whose beauty I am enthralled, not as regarding her wealth, but her sweet love, of whom you only have the government: therefore I pray befriend me so much, that I may come to speech with h●r. Floretus was so ●xcéedingly amazed to hear his speeches, that he could not tell what answer to make, nor how to excuse her absence. Lenon seeing him in such a study, continued his speeches, saying: Floretus be not unwilling I should match with Artesia, for that shall no way hinder your preferment, who think peradventure the longer she liveth unmarried, the more wealth you shall get by her, but to rid you of that doubt, be but a means to win her consent, and I vow by heaven, I will not take one pennyworth of Arbastus substance from you, but freely give it you all. For it is not her possessions I regard, but her love, therefore I pray resolve me of your mind herein.  
My Lord replied he, your offer is so bountiful, besides my duty urging me, I am ready to perform your will to the uttermost of my power. I thank you good Floretus quoth Lenon, than I pray thee bring me to her, for my love is impatient of delay. My Lord replied he, that can I not do instantly, for Artesia some two days past, with the strange damosel Sylvian, departed thence, and are now at the Lodge: whither (if you please to to take such entertainment as this place yieldeth) we will both go to morrow morning. Agreed quoth Lenon, I will accept your proffer. When the time of rest was come, Floretus being alone by himself, entered into these cogitations. What inconveniences hast thou run into Floretus? Thou hast hired one to murder Artesia, in hope to get her wealth, and made Sylvian acquainted with thy counsel, which wealth thou mayest now attain by preserving her life: and beside, winning her to love Lenon, thou shalt find him thy faithful friend for ever. What wert thou then best to do? if thou shouldest murder her, he would make inquiry of her death, and so thou be undone: If not, then will Sylvian be displeased, and so bewray thy drift: that the mischiefs thou by folly hast run into, are so intricate, that thou knowest not which way to shun them. Were it not better to save her life, and win her Love for Lenon, then to poison her, and so to die myself? If I save her life, Sylvian will be discontented: what of that? then let Sylùian smart for it, for if she will not be contented with that I shall do, she shall never live to bewray my counsel. And therefore will I first try her, and finding any suspicion thereof, I will stab her myself, whose death I may eastlier answer then Artesias. Early the next morning, Lenon and he road to the Lodge, where no sooner arrived, but he met with Sylvian, to whom he said: How now Sylvian, I have news of importance to bewray to thee, Lenon whom thou here beholdest, is son to the King, who is deeply in love with Artesia, and hath given me assurance of all Arbastus livings, if I can win Artesia to match with him, now I think it good to defer our purpose as concerning her death, until we have made trial whether she will love him or no. Which if we can effect, we shall be quit of so cruel a deed, enjoy her heritage, and have an assured friend of Lenon whilst we live: therefore let me know your opinion herein. Sylvian was exceedingly amazed to hear his speeches, thinking that if he did tell him where Artesia was, she should be wrested from his possession, and so himself disappointed of her love: and on the other side, he thought what mischief would arise if he should say he had already given her the poison, yet his love over-maistring the fear of any danger, made him say, All this I like: but Floretus, it is now too late, for I have caused Artesia to drink the poison you delivered me, and she is dead, which was of such force, that all her body purpled into blisters and swellings, which because I knew would bewray what we had done, I took her body and conveyed it into a deep pit, where it is impossible to be found. Floretus now fearing to have his treason bewrayed, thought to stab Sylvian; and so to be rid of them both, that in a monstrous rage he drew his dagger, and unawares struck Sylvian in the left arm, who feeling the smart, with violenc● more than Floretus expected, stepped to him, and in spite of his utermost strength, wrong the dagger out of his hands, and with the same wounded him in three places, and had not Lenon stepped betwixt them, Floretus had been slain. With that Lenon parting them, demanded what the matter was: Floretus thinking rather to accuse, then be accused himself, and terrified with affright, said that wicked woman hath murdered Artesia. Sylvian made no answer until Lenon laid hold on her, demanding where Artesia was, she answering, that by the intisement of that wicked Floretus, I gave her a drink that unknowing to me hath poisoned her. O wicked creature said Lenon, thou hast condemned thyself to death. With that he began to draw his sword, but Ornatus thinking it now no time to ●ally lest he might by them be murdered, caught hold on lenon's sword, having such advantage, that he easily wrong it from him, and said; Worthy Lenon be advised, do not thou seek to spill my innocent blood, without further consideration, lest for the same thou lose thine own. Thinkest thou I am as faulty and guilty as Floretus is? be assured I am not. But if thou lovest justice, late hands on that Traitor, for he not I, is culpable of shedding her innocent blood. By this time lenon's servants perceiving their contention, came running in with their sword drawn, by their lords commandment, apprehending Floretus, and afterwards saking by violence to take Sylvian, but he standing in his own defence, resiste● them, alleging innocency, till Lenon vowed and protested if he were not accessary thereto, he should have no other than justice, and that his cause should be heard before the King. Ornatus thought it better to yields by fair means, rather than by compulsion, and esteeming it less grief to be made a prisoner, then to bewray where Artesia was, and so have her taken ●rom him, yieldeth: both of them being conveyed to the Palace, and for that night committed to several prisons. Floretus conscience so deeply accused him of villainy, that he continued cursing and exclaiming against his hard fortune, with bitter ban raging against himself for trusting Sylvian, seeming with extreme fear of death, desperate.  
Ornatus on the other side, took that trouble patiently, as endured for Artesias sake fearing nothing, for that he knew himself innocent, and could easily acquit himself of such accusation, purposing rather to hazard the worst, then bewray what he was: which to conceal, was his greatest care. The next day they were brought before the Prince, where Floretus upon Syluians accusation confessed the truth, both concerning Artesia, and how he slew Arbastus, for which he was adjudged to die within two days. And quoth he to Sylvian, for that thou art a stranger, and by his counsel rather than of thine own inclination, were: drawn unwillingly to do that deed, I will pardon thy life, but adjudge thee to be banished this Country: and quoth he, because I fear that some will seek thy life, thou shalt presently be conveyed hence. Which doom shall stand irrevocable. Then gave he commandment, he should be conveyed to the haven presently, committing her to the custody of certain rude Moors. Who not staying to hear what answer she would make (whereof poor Ornatus was not readily provided of, in that extremity) immediately carried her away: to whom Ornatus would have told the truth of all, but he spoke to them that understood him not, who with speed executing their sovereigns' command, rudely haled him aboard, and hoisting sail, never rested until they arrived near the coast of Anatolia, where they were commanded to leave her.   

CHAP. IX. Of the sorrow Artesia took for Ornatus banishment, and of the several adventures befell. him in Anatolia.  
ARtesia remaining in adellena's house, marveled she heard not from Ornatus according to his promise, which drove her into some doubt of his safety, that coming to Adellena, she desired her to haste to the Lodge, to entreat him to come to her, for that by her hearts misdoubt she suspected some heavy news. Adellena immediately hasted thither, finding the servants in great sorrow, whom she asked for Sylvian. Ay me, quoth one of them, by this time she is past speaking withal: for such heavy news is befallen since your departure, as gréueth me to utter, yet notwithstanding he told her all that was happened.  
Adellena brooking no delay which in those affairs was dangerous, stood not to imitate of those griefs, and how contrarily every thing fell out, but with all haste returned to Artesia, who espying her coming, thought her countenance bewrayed some unwelcome accident; hastily inquiring how Ornatus did. Adellena for want of breath could not speak a good space, but at the last she said. Artesia, tedious lament is not now to be used, but speedy counsel how to save Ornatus, for he is carried before the King, is accused by Floretus to have murdered you, for coming to the Lodge with Lenon the King's son, who pretendeth great love to you, and not finding you, Ornatus told Floretus he had given you the poison, whereupon Floretus would have slain him, but Ornatus taking his dagger from him, had done the like to him, had not Lenon stepped betwixt them. Then Floretus accused him for your death, and he Floretus: and both were yesterday carried before the King.  
Alas poor Ornatus, said Artesia, what misery is befallen thee for my sake? how art thou rewarded for preserving my life? Good Adellena, counsel me what is to be done: Ornatus being amongst them a reputed stranger, having no friend to plead for him, and peradventure overswayed by Floretus persurie, may have his life endangered, and the rather for that he is taken to be a Natolian. Therefore Adellena, if thou lovest him or me, will save both his and my life, and discharge him of that false accusation, run to the Court, and finding out Lenon, tell him at my safety, and request him for my sake to pity poor Sylvian. Adellena according to her commandment, mounted a Horse, and with great speed by that time it was night, attained the Court, and finding out Lenon, uttered these speeches. Most worthy Lenon, vouchsafe to hear me speak: The fair Artesia whom you suppose dead, is alive and in safety at my house, who hath sent me unto you in the behalf of Sylvian, fearing some wrong might be done to her, as inspected to be her death, when she only hath preserved her life.  
Lenon was so amazed at her speeches, that he could not tell what to say, being exceedingly grieved for Sylvian, but at length told her what his Father had done: which appalled her senses with deadly fear. Lenon, notwithstanding it somewhat grieved him for Sylvian, yet his heart was glad to hear of Artesias safety, and therefore he determined to go with Adellena to visit her; which likewise he performed, and entering where she was, making exceeding lamentation, he said.  
I beseech you grieve not fair damosel for Sylvian, for no harm is done to her, only my father upon her own confession and Floretus accusation, hath banished her, to her own Country.  
Artesia hearing his speeches, with very grief fell into a deadly trance, both Lenon and Adellena having much a do to bring her life again. And being conveyed to her bed, when her senses were come to their perfect use, and Lenon standing by her, whose sigh● was most grievous to her, she turned her head from his sight, shedding such abundance of tears, that she bedrawed the place where she lay. Lenon perceiving that she was displeased with his presence, withdrew himself, giving Adellena this charge. Adellena, since Artesia is in thy custody, I charge thee let her not depart hence, until thou hearest of me again, for if thou dost, thou shalt answer the same: but if thou wilt stand my friend, and in my behalf entreat her favour, I will prove so grateful a friend, as thou shalt account thy labour well employed.  
He was no sooner gone, but Artesia uttered these lamentations; Most accursed wretch that I am, to be thus separated from my dear Love, whose courteous mind is the fountain of all virtue: how unfortunate am I made by my father's death, and my uncles cruelty, but especially by his loss, that is unjustly banished into a strange Country, where he prooe true and loyal Gentleman, never set foot? how unhappy was he made, when he first began his love? but now most miserable, by seeking to preserve my life, hath cast away his own; and fearing to be disappointed of my love, hath quite diss●uered himself from my ●●ght, to hazard his person by sea and land. Is it possible that he should ever return, being so far conveyed from his native soil, and left to the mercies of strange people, that will be ready to destroy his guiltless life. No I ●eare me, never shall I be so happy as behold him, and though I do not, yet shall my love to him remain immovable. Therefore now will I arm myself to endure all perils, to live in care, and continual lament, for want of beloved Ornatus, whose heart I know is replete with sorrow, and peradventure misdoubteth my loyalty, having been so unkind to him before: and knowing Lenons affection, may suppose his dignity might alter my constancy. But sooner shall Ornatus hear of my death, then that I have altered my love, or yielded his right to an other, were he the greatest Potentate in the world.  
Which said, another flood of brinish tears overflowed her eyes, and her passage of speech was stopped by heart-pearcing sigh, which in confused multitudes issued with her sweet breath, never ceasing her laments, but still bewailing her true loves absence, that it pierced adellena's heart with such sorrow, that she wept as fast as Artesia, both being so much grieved, that they seemed to strive how to exceed one another in laments. In which sorrowful estate, Artesia remained so long, that she waxed extreme sick; and grew to that extremity, that Adellena feared her death.  
Lenon likewise being come to the Court, gat pardon of his Father for Floretus death, but notwithstanding he remained in prison all the days of his life. Lenon likewise hearing of Artesias sickness, refrained from visiting her, only he would oftentimes repair to adellena's house, to inquire how she did.  
Ornatus being left in the Country of Anatolia, took his misfortunes in such heavy sort, that had not his hope to see Artesia again withheld him, he had offered himself some outrage, for a season giving himself to forlorn and careless desperation, neither regarding which way to provide for his safety, nor otherwise respecting what danger he might run into in that strange Country, for the Moors had landed him in a waste and desolate Coast of the Country.  
Thus careless did he continue a whole night and a day, not so much as seeing toode to preserve him from famine: but in the end, hunger constrained him to seek succour, but when his stomach served him, he could find no meat, that with the extremity thereof, calling to remembrance his estate, he uttered these plaints.  
Thus contrary is Nature to her subjects, sometimes hoisting them to the tap of all felicity, and then with violence tumbling them down headlong into the depth of extreme misery.  
Was ever more fortunate, and suddenly miserable than I am? Could ever any man whatsoever, attain more heavenly felicity and happiness than I did, by being possess of Artesia? and now again more accursed being thus far absented from her: and banished my native soil into a strange Country, ready to be famished or devoured by wild beasts, or that which is worst, never likely to see Artesia again. How could any man contain himself from desperateness, being so miserable as I am? How can I withhold my hands from murdering myself, when by doing it, I should be rid out of a wretched life? What should I do, which way should I go? Here I am in a desolate and unfrequented place, where no human creatures inhabit, but wild beasts, without food, without weapons, in woman's apparel, and without hope of comfort. Shall I state here? then shall I be famished: shall I leave this place and travel further? then I go further from my beloved, and meeting with some ravenous beast, may be devoured. Now being hungry I want food, and here is none, unless I will eat the earth, leaves of trees, or roots of the grass. Well I will seek my fortune, be it good or ill: and in this desperate mood he traveled on, and by good fortune found a Tree laden with exceeding, pleasant, and goodly fruit, with which he slenched his hunger: not far from which place, he took up his night's lodging.  
Early the next morning he arose, first filling his belly, and then his lap with that pleasant fruit, the taste whereof, was like pleasant wine, that being drunk in abundance, will make the head light: which made Ornatus heart merry, that he traveled on space, but Fortune not contented with the misery he had endured already, sent him in an other affliction: he entered into a place like a Forest, beset with Trees of huge proportion, scattered here and there, where he met with a wild and fierce Boor, that haunted those Deserts, who espying Ornatus, with a terrible groining bristled himself coming towards him, Ornatus being now driven to his uttermost shifts, began to run with all his force from the beast, but he making the more speed had almost overtaken him, when one of the Apples Ornatus carried about him fell down, and the Boor espying the same, staled his haste to take it up, whereby Ornatus had gotten some little ground of him, and seeing him so much affect the fruit, cast down another Apple after which the Boor run, with greediness devouring the same. Ornatus was glad of this poor shift, and still cast down one Apple and then another, that in the end he had almost thrown away all, and notwithstanding that, feared to be destroyed, but the Boor feeling his belly full, and his hunger stauncht, left off his eager pursuit and followed him more cearelesly, whom he still fed with Apples, so long as his store lasted, that in the end the Boor being drunk with the pleasant fruit, began to reel and stagger, and lying down fast a sleep, which Ornatus seeing, having no other than a knife about him, with the same approached the Boor, and without fear, violently thrust the same so deep into the Boors briffled side, that it pierced his heart, and he after some struggling died.  
Ornatus then held up his hands to heaven for joy, exceedingly applauding this his fortunate and unexpected escape; which he took as a fortunate presage of good success. But yet before he could determine what to do, Fortune once again showed her mutability, for when Ornatus had parted the Boor's head from his huge body, and with the same was ready to depart, there past by as it seemed, a knight gallantly mounted, in green armour, who espying a woman bearing the Boor's head, drew towards her, and said: Woman where hadst thou that Boor's head? I pray thee deliver it me. Ornatus made this answer. Sir I need not do either, unless I know more cause then as yet I do. The Knight hearing that short answer, alighted, and said: I will show no other reason but that I will have it: with that he began to strive for the same, but Ornatus having more mind to his sword then to keep the Boor's head, suddenly caught hold on the Natalians sword, and drew the same out, which when he had gotten, he said: Disloyal and discourteous Knight, now will I keep the Boor's head in despite of thee, with that he thrust at him, and contrary to his thought, wounded him so deep that he le●t him for dead, wishing that he had not done that deed, but not knowing how discurteously he would have used him, let pass all further remorse, and casting off his woman's apparel, put on the Knight's apparel and Armour, mounted the steed, and with the Boor's head, roads back the same way he saw the Knight come, and within a little space, found a beaten way that conducted him to a goodly Town, whose Turret tops he saw long before he came to the same: then began he to study what to do, sometimes thinking it best not to enter into the Town, from whence it is likely the Knight he slew came, and so he being taken for him might be known, and so afterwards endangered for his death. For peradventure the Knight might be of good estimation, and of purpose sent to slay the Boor, and if it should be known that he had slain him, his friends would for the same, and the rather for that he was a stranger, prosecute sharp revenge against him. Whilst he was in these meditations, he came near the Town, not fully resolved what to do, where he was soon espied of some of the people, who seeing the Boor's head, came running towards him making exceeding joy: which when he saw, he thought it too late to turn back, but that he must go on and hazard the worst: and being entered the Town, a number of the Inhabitants flocked about him, some with garlands, some with praises, and all with joy, uttering these speeches. Welcome home most brave Alprinus.  
Ornatus then perfectly knew that the Knight's name was Alprinus, and went of purpose to ●lea the Boor, whom they took him to be, and that he must of necessity be known? which drove him into exceeding care what excuse to make, to avoid the danger of death. Then presently he beheld a troup of beautiful Damosels, with the sounds of sweet Music coming towards him, (amongst whom, one as chief and more beautiful than the rest, was crowned with a wreath of flowers, bearing another in her hand) who all at once applauded his victory, dancing before him, until he came into the midst of the Town where sat the chief Magistrates, where the damosel that was crowned, thus spoke to him.  
Sir Alprinus, your conquest hath released these Inhabitants of care, extolled thy fame, preserved thy life, and won me for thy love. You have well performed the talk you undertook, and according to your desert, I come to Crown you with these flowers, and to yield myself as yours for ever.  
Ornatus hearing her speeches, thought to try the end of this adventure, which could be no worse than death, which of force he must now hazard, alighted, laying down the Boor's head upon a Table that stood before the Ancients, with humble and comely behaviour kissing the Damoselles hand, who set the wreath of Flowers upon his head, and taking him by the hand, brought him before the Ancients, one of whom stood up and said? Worthy Gentleman, whereas before thou wert by us adjudged to die as worthy thereof, for this thy valiant deed, we freely pardon thee, and acquit thee from all trespasses that thou host committed against any whomsoever until this present hour.  
And taking the damosel by the hand said, Lucida, according to thy desire, and his desert, I yield thee up to be his wife. And Gentleman quoth he, take her as thine own, as freely as she was by birth adopted mine: and after my death, be thou inheritor of my land.  
To all this Ornetus gave a reverent consent, and the night now approaching, he with Lucida went to her father's house, where was a great feast provided, from which Ornatus excused himself in this sort. When he was entered the house, being still Armed, only lifting up his Beaver, he took Lucida by the hand, and withdrawing her aside, said.  
Lucida, I now find your love to be infallible, and your constancy to excel all women that I have known? and that Alprinus is so far indebted unto you, as that he shall never (might he live a thousand years) be able to recompense this inestimable favour of your love, which hath preserved my unworthy life from destruction.  
But notwithstanding your Love Alprinus, his debt is so great as can no way be gratified, I request one further favour at your hands, whereon my chiefest felicity dependeth, yea my life, your love, and perpetual good, which I fear to utter, lest you should misconceive the same, there being n● other thing to hinder the content Alprinus seeketh, but only your favourable consent, so banish all mistrust of my faith.  
Lucida marveled at his speeches, indeed loving him so well, that she would have spilled her own blood for his sake, saying: Alprinus, what need you make doubt of my consent to any thing whatsoever it be for your sake? know you not how faithful I have continued, ●hough you slew my only brother? and that I esteemed your love far dearer than his life, and when you should have died for that deed, obtained this at my fathers and the rest of the ancients hands, that slaying the Boor that destroyed many people, you should save your own life, and win me as your love. And notwithstanding all this, do you make a question whether I will yield consent to any thing that shall be for your good? O Alprinus, if your love were so constant as mine, if you intended to continue my love for ever, if your heart felt so deep a sting of love as mine, you would not make such a doubt of my loyalty, of my truth true love and constancy. For you know whatsoever you should ask, I will grant: whatsoever you should request, I will perform: and wherein soever a Lover may show infallible tokens of her truth, I will do as much as any: but since you will not believe me without an oath, I swear by my lo●e, my unspotted virginity, and by all the good I wish my heart, I will consent, agree, perform, or do any thing: not be offended with any thing, be the news never so unwelcome, so it be for Alprinus good: nor leave any thing unperformed you shall require.  
Ornatus hearing with what constancy her speeches proceeded from her, and how grievously she conceived it, that any doubt should be made of her loyalty, thought most certainly that he might put his life into her hands, and therefore having already studied a device, said, It ill agreeth with my nature to dissemble: and hardly could I have been drawn thereto, but that desire to preserve love, drew me thereto for know most worthy Lucida, that I am not Alprinus, but one that for his sake, hath undertaken this: The truth whereof, if you will hear with patience, I will declare.  
Yesterday, I travailed through the Forest, or desert, where I met Alprinus, sore wounded, and flying from the Boor that pursued him with celerity: which when I beheld, to rescue him from death, I set upon the Boor, and by good fortune slew him: which when he beheld, he declared to me the cause of his coming: which when I heard, pitying his estate, I bid him take the boors head, and withal, help him to mount his steed, but his wounds would not suffer him to ride, that I was in some fear of his life. When presently we beheld an ancient Hermitte coming towards us, who lived in a Cave in those w●●ds, who undertook to cure his wounds, being glad of the Boor's death. To whose Cell I conveyed Alprinus: At whose request, I have performed this which you see, and have undertaken to hazard my life, to discharge him of death, and to win the assured possession of your love.  
Now I most humbly entreat you for his sake, to conceal what I am, that I be not known: and so both disappoint yourself of his love, and him of safety. Only devise a means to excuse me from this feast: which I trust you will do for Alprinus sake, and then we may have time to study for your further content.  
Lucidas love, made her believe that all he said was true, and therefore said: Sir, I trust there is no cause why I should mistrust you: and therefore relying upon the truth of that which you have sad; I will tell my father you are wounded, and desire rather to go to your Chamber, then to the feast, who I know will deny me nothing. This said, she went to her father, and so prevailed with him, that he was contented she should have the tending of him: whom she took to a chamber, suffering none to come at him, but her maid, whom she trusted: and well might trust for her fidelity. Afterwards Lucida came to Ornatus, to determine how she might come to see Alprinus, being most careful of his health: and amongst many other speeches, they concluded, that Ornatus the next morning should depart towards the Forest to Alprinus, and that she by some means would come thither the next day after, if he would meet her, to give her directions where to find him, which he promised to do. According to this agreement, Ornatus very early the next morning, armed himself, and as Lucida had instructed him, took his leave of his father, who little suspected he had been any other than Alprinus, gave his consent, and so Ornatus in Alprinus armour again departed the Town, being glad that he was escaped from death, which he was sure to have endured, if it had been any ways known that he had slain Alprinus.  
And being now alone by himself, having she wide world to travel into 〈◊〉 never a friend to go too, void of fear, but not o● care: he 〈◊〉 whither to direct his journey: sometimes his conscience accusing him of too much disloyal dealing towards Lucida, in betraying her virtues by his dissimulation, in tell●●● her Alprinus was living, when he knew it to the co●●●ry.  
Then he contrarily, thought it was lawful for him to dissemble with her, to save his own life, and though he had slain Alprinus, he did it but in defence of his honour.  
Amongst at these, this cogitation seemed most to acquit him o● dishonour, that fortune and the destinies had by that means ordained him to escape. Whilst he road on in these deep meditations, he met with an ancient hermit, who coming towards him said: Discourteous gentleman, how camest thou by that armour? and yet I need not ask thee, for I know thou slewest the worthy gentleman Alprinus, which I beheld to my grief. Father (quoth Ornatus) if thou didst behold the same, thou canst witness I did it against my will, and in mine own defence: for whose death I am so sorry as thyself, and would as willingly have done any thing to preserve the same as any man living.  
Will you then (said the Hermit) do this for him, vouchsafe to come and speak with him, who is in reasonable good estate in my Cell?  
I would to God (said Ornatus) thy words were true: for if he be living, it will revive my heart with joy, that is almost vanquished with care: desiring nothing more than to see him. He is living said the Hermit, and if you will go, I will bring you to him presently.  
Ornatus being come to the Cell, accordingly found Alprinus very weak, by reason of his gréen●us wound, to whom Ornatus declared all that happened between him & Lucida: which added no little comfort to Alprinus heart, that he thought himself of sufficient strength to go and meet with her: and therefore told Ornatus he would go and meet with her, and withal yielded him so many thanks, as if by his means, his life had been preserved.  
In the mean time they continued in the 〈◊〉 Hermittes Cave, Alprinus in great comfort, and Ornatus in no less care, for the absence of his dear Artesia, breaking forth many a scalding sigh, and uttering many a sad and mournful lamentation: sometimes utterly despairing of attaining her love, and then again by remembering her virtues, growing into some better confidence of her constancy. Yet most of all, fearing that Lenons love to her, might either by persuasion of his death, force, affect of dignity, or other means, win her to consent to him, especially for that she had no parented to govern her, nor he never a faithful friend to counsel her.  
The next day Alprinus and he went out to meet Lucida, whom they met at the entrance into the Forest, and after many kind salutations passed betwixt the two lovers, they altogether went back into the Town, to Lucida's Father's house, who that morning was departed to a Haven, about business of importance.  
Ornatus was most kindly used of them, remaining there until Alprinus had wedded Lucida: but then he thought it high time for him to depart: And on a time finding Alprinus alone, who had shown sufficient tokens of his friendship, he declared unto him, the whole truth of his forepast love to ●rtesia, requesting his help, for his passage into Phrygia.  
Alprinus with great regard, attended the whole discourse, promising his uttermost assistance: which (quoth he) none can effect so well as Lucida, whose father is a merchant, and sendeth for ships into sundry Provinces, who only may pleasure you: which charge I will undertake, and cause her to deal so ●ffectually with him, that you shall attain your desire. Ornatus continued in good hope, somewhat abandoning his former despair, whom for a time we will leave, attending the time that some of the ships should depart, to speak of Artesia his careful Lover.   

CHAP. X. How Lenon caused Artesia by violence to be carried from adellena's house, to the green Fortress: of the miseries she endured there. How she was rescued from thence by Allinus, and from him taken by Pirates. And how Allinus accused by Lenon for her death, was imprisoned.  
AFter that Artesia by adellena's careful tendance had somewhat recovered her health, Lenon began to visit her again, being unable to endure the heavy burden of burning love: thinking her sickness had proceeded from fear of Floretus, not for want of Ornatus company, finding an occasion, saluted her in this sort. Most fairest Artesia, my heart is so firmly enthralled to your beauty, and my affection● so admire your virtues, that I am constrained to utter my mind, and to tell you, I love your Beauty, Virtues, and other most rare perfections wherewith you are adorned. That I humbly sue to you for favour, and prostrate myself your thrall, desiring to be enriched with those jewels of inestimable price: which having once attained, I shall think I had more wealth in my possession, than all the world besides myself, doth contain. Your unkind uncles cruelty, you need not fear, nor other misfortune: neither have you any parents to overrule you in making your choice: then vouchsafe to accept my suit, and yield consent to my love.  
My Lord (replied Artesia) I thank you for your good will, but I know not how to accept of your love, being yet so far from knowing what it is, that if I should but dream thereof, my heart would be out of quiet: beside, many cares continually attend the same, and my mean estate so far unworthy thereof, with innumerable other discontents and cares that I would make myself subject unto: that I had rather a thousand times remain in the estate I am now in. Therefore, I entreat you to settle your love elsewhere, more agreeable to your estate and fancy: for I shall think myself most fortunate, if I never fall into that labyrinth of disquiets: but will during my life, labour to keep myself free from loves bands. Lenon would not take this for an answer: but with many other speeches continued his suit, whom Artesia still put out of hope: that he departed for that time exceedingly discontented, leaving her no less disquieted in her thoughts how to avoid his love.  
In this sort did he daily visit her, still growing more importunate, amongst many other, this conference passed betwixt them: Artesia (quoth he) how long shall I sue, and be frustrated in my hopes, by your unkindness? is your heart hardened against me? Or am I of so base conditions, that you cannot conceive well of me? Or is it possible you bear so hateful a conceit of love as you make show for? then may I accuse mine eyes, that have betrayed my senses, in making them your thrall: then may I think my woe began, when I first began to love. O Artesia be not so cruel, as to punish me with this disdain.  
My Lord (replied she) I seek not your disquiet: for at the first motion I told you my mind, which shall never alter, neither is my heart hardened against you more than others: for I am determined not to love: then seeing you see my intent, it were a point of wisdom in you to shake off this fond and foolish love, which is but a toy, and an idle fancy, that is bred by vanity: and do not seek to make love grow without a root, for in my heart it shall never take root: but rather when it is rooted, I will pull out heart and all, but I will ●oote it out. Then (quoth be) you are led by obstinacy and not by reason, for that you are subject to love, you cannot deny: then why not me before another, considering my love is more faithful than any other? And I being most worthy, why should I not be first accepted? Artesia was weary of his speeches, having her constant thoughts only bend on Ornatus: therefore to rid him from her, she said; It is in vain to use many words, neither am I like to those that will at the first seem ●oye, but afterwards yield: but I desire you to be satisfied with that which I have already said, that I cannot love.  
Fair damosel, how can I be satisfied with that unreasonable answer, when my life dependeth on your consent: which your denial will finish: then give me leave to say, I cannot be so satisfied: but being extremely refused, I must grow perforce to be as unreasonable in my request. Consider you not what dignity I might advance you too, by making you my wife, consider you not the pleasures, joys, and abaundance of all contents you might enjoy with me, and how faithfully I love you, and with what humility I seek your love, and yet notwithstanding you remain obdurate? My power is great, that whereas I sue, I might command, and by authority compel you to consent: then be not so overconceited, as so obstinately to reject your good. And think, that if my love were not constant, I might use extremes, which would soon alter your mind.  
Suppose (replied Artesia) I were so peevish as you term me, yet being borne free, I am not to be made bond by constraint: and were you the greatest king in the world, you could not rule the heart, though you might by injustice punish the body: for it is not kingdoms, wealth, nor cruelty, can turn hatred to love: but it may sooner turn love into hatred. But by your speeches I may partly know your thought, and the lips utter what the heart intendeth: do with me what you will, I cannot love: neither will I love you, were you Monarch of all the world.  
Leanon was so much grieved and vexed at her speeches, that he was ready to tore his hair, his loves extremity making him rather mad then sober, that presently he departed, saying no more but this: Farewell hard-hearted Artesia.  
She was glad he was gone, presently telling Adellena all that had passed betwixt them: and how peremptorily she had answered his importunate suit, telling Adellena, that since Ornatus was for her sake banished, she would never love any but him, and preserve her life in hope to see him once again: but the first knowledge of his death, should be the latest date of her life: both she and Adellena thinking that Lenon would never return to prosecute his love. But he being come to the Palace, betook himself to his chamber, raging more like a mad man, than a passionate lover, sometimes swearing, cursing, and stamping, yielding so much to that mad fancy, that in the end, he vowed to obtain artesia's love, though he hazarded his life, honour, and good name: that ranging in this sort, up and down his Chamber, he espied an old Gentlewoman, named Flera, going by his window, whom he called unto him, and thus said. Flera, because I have assured confidence in thy fidelity; and purpose to reward thee liberally, I crave thy counsel, and with it thy consent, to be faithful in concealing my secrets, and very diligent in doing my command. The old hag making an evil fashioned low courtesy, said: My dear son Lenon, be it to do you good, I will hazard my life, and rather be torn into a thousand pe●ces, then reveal what you shall vouchsafe to tell me. Then (quoth he) counsel me which way I should begin to win a fair Damosels love. Marry my Lord (quoth she) give her knowledge thereof: and then with fair speeches woe her: i● that will not prevail, give her gold, and there is no doubt, that fair bays will catch her.  
No no (quoth he) these are of no force, I have made my love known to her, by humble suits, submiss behaviours, and by all kind of courteous means, entreated her consent: yet for all that, she remaineth obstinate: she is rich, and therefore gold with her is of no force: she is fair, virtuous, noble, and chaste: then what engine hast thou to undermine that chastifie? Means enough (quoth she) peradventure she is ruled by others counsel, which may prevail more than your suit: but might I have access unto her, I would not doubt but to alter her mind: for being fair, young and rich, she cannot choose but delight to be praised: subject to love, and therefore yield to desire. Dost thou think (quoth he) thou couldst win her, wert thou her keeper? I warrant you, (quoth she) I would do it.  
Then shalt thou be her keeper, see that thou be'st to morrow at my father's Castle in the green forest, where to morrow by night this damosel shall be, whose name is Artesia, daughter to Arbastus lately dead: use her kindly, let her want nothing: nor be not in any wise known that thou knowest me: nor that the Castle belongeth to my Father: nor speak not of love in any case: use her in this sort until I speak with thee, for thou only shalt have her custody. Flera being gone about her business, be found out two of his trustiest servants: to whom he imparted both his mind and intent: willing them the next morning with speed to go to adellena's house, and either by force or fair means to take Artesia from thence, and carry her unto the green fortress in the green Forest, where they should find Flera, ●o to whose custody they should commit Artesia: and themselves should remain there to provide all things necessary until his coming.  
Early the next morning, the servants road to adellena's house, whereinto they boldly entered, and coming to Artesia, first spoke her fair, but afterwards told her she must go with them, i● not willingly, by constraint. Artesia then began to bu●st into tears, weeping and lamenting exceedingly, upon her knees entreating them, not to offer by violence to carry her from thence, but if they would needs, that they would take Adellena with them: but all was in vain, for they constrained her to mount up behind one of them, and away they road in great haste: this heavy parting was so sudden, that Artesia could not a bid Adellena adieu, but with tears, nor Adellena speak a word for grief, their senses being so far confounded with care, that their hearts were ready to burst therewith. Artesia thought this was Lenons doing, and therefore sorrowed the more: not that he used her unkindly, but that he loved her, not fearing his cruelty, but his lust: not regarding what cruelty he could use by hatred, but fearing his love would make him seek her dishonour. Being come to the Fortress, and committed to the custody of Flera, the old woman began to speak her fair, and use her kindly, yet her very words and countenance bewraying her guilty conscience, to whom Artesia would not speak a word, lest thereby she should give her occasion to prate: meat she brought unto her, but she refused to taste thereof, and when she came to her Chamber, she lay on the rushes, refusing the bed, tormenting her heart with care, vexing her head with thought, and busying her senses, or meditating to what issue this usage would sort, sometimes calling on Ornatus name for comfort, sometimes accusing Lenon of barbarous cruelty, and cursing her crooked destinies: uttering such plaints as would have turned tyrants to ruth, weeping her eyes dry, and her garments wet, tearing her hair, and tormenting every one of her senses with vexation, refusing sleep, rest, ease, or quiet.  
The next day Lenon came thither, ask Flera how she fa●ed, who told him that she would not speak, eat nor sleep, but ●ared like one mad and senseless. But let her alone quoth she, and you shall see this fit will soon be over, the extremity whereof, being once past, I will use my skill to try her.  
Lenon giving order to have all things necessary provided, departed. Dinner time being come, and meat set before Artesia, she refused to eat: likewise supper time being come, she determined to do the like. Which Flera perceiving, said: Fair gentlewoman, to behold your outward appearance, would make one judge your mind harboured many hidden virtues, but I comparing your actions with your apparent show, suppose that you are either mad or careless: this behaviour, to seem dumb, to refuse sustenance, and to refrain from sleep, are instances of folly, not of wisdom. What if you speak, what if you did eat, or take rest, should you be ever the worse? or refraining, can that do you good, or banish grief, and not rather make your estate worse? do you think to prevent any thing by doing yourself harm? no fond Child, eat thy meat, and preserve thy ●fie: for living thou mayest attain thy desires, but dying thou art past hope. With that she departed smiling.  
Artesia hearing her speeches, began to consider indeed what folly it was to refuse her meat, and for fear to shorten herself by distemperating herself, which might be the means to further lenon's intent, whom she knew would seek her life, if he could not win her love, she presently left off such desperate behaviour, and with well weighed consideration, attended the event of the worst misfortune, that from that time she both eat her meat, and did all that she could to comfort herself, still living in good hope of Ornatus return.  
Some few days after, Lenon came to the Fortress again, inquiring of Flera how Artesia fa●ed. Well quoth she, but you willed me to conceal that it was your doing to bring her hither, and some body else hath told her thereof, for she knoweth the truth as well as yourself or I, and therefore I would wish you to visit her, and after that let me alone to persuade her.  
Lenon was ruled by the old woman, and came where Artesia was saluting her, but she disdaining either to look on him, or hear him speak, withdrew herself from his presence. Wherewith he departed, willing Flera to do that which she had undertaken. And Flera finding her as she thought in a fit mood, began to commune with her of many things, amongst which love was one. Artesia a while heard her, but in the end, perceiving her drift; cut her off with these speeches.  
Old iniquity, I know whereto thy talk tendeth: thinkest thou I will ever harbour a thought of Lenon, that hath used me thus dishonourably? no rather will I rend my woeful heart from out my breast before his face: neither needest thou tell me that he hath entreated thee to speak for him, for I know too well both his and thy intent, which shall nothing prevail, but harden my heart against him. Therefore do not speak to me, for I will not hear thee, nor answer thee: but hate him, thee, and thy counsel, and remain so constant in despising him, that a thousand deaths shall not alter me. Is it love that hath made him with violence carry me from my friends, make me a prisoner, and commit me to the custody of such a hellish hag as thyself? If that be his love, let him turn it to hatred, and never trouble me, but with hating me: for in so doing, he shall better please me.  
Often Flera would have replied, but Artesia would not suffer her, that she began to w●xe angry, and in the end to plain fury, that running to Artesia, she caught hold on her, and began to tear her garments from her body, and withal, caught sometimes such firm hold on her pure fl●she with her nails, that the blood followed: that Artesia began to cry and shriek for fear, and smart.  
When the old Beldame had executed some part of her intended revenge and cruelty upon her in this sort, she said: Proud girl, thinkest thou to bear it away with outfacing me? No, do not think I will leave thee thus, but thou shalt repent that ever thou comest here, and before I go, I will have my ●●inde of thee: then pulled she out a knife, and catching hold on her, swore, that unless she would promise to use Lenon kindly, when he next came, she would cut her throat: which drane Artesia into that fear, that she began to entreat her and speak fair, promising to condescend to any thing that agreed to her honour. Stand not upon those nice terms with me quoth Flera, but here swear to yield to love him, for so thou mayest delay him, and frustrate his hopeful expectation, whom thou art not worthy to touch, much less to bear such a presuming mind as thou dost, in scorn of his love. Therefore yield to that which I request or stand to my mercy. Canst thou bestow thy love better than on so honourable a Prince? Canst thou attain more dignity, reap more content, or enjoy more quiet with any then with him? Then do not deny me, for I purpose not to be denied.  
Artesia trembling for fear, made this answer only to satisfy her, I am contented to be ruled by Lenon, whose meaning I know is honourable. Therefore I pray do not offer me this ou●rage, but suffer me to live in quiet until his coming. If this will not satisfy you, then do the worst you can: for death is more welcome to me then life in these extremities. Well quoth she, I will try you, but if you dally, beware what will ensue, for I am resolved what to do. Artesia was glad she had satisfied her, though it were with uttering words which she never intended to perform.  
Adellena seeing how suddenly Artesia was taken from her, caused one of her servants privily to follow them to the green Fortress, who returning, told her what he had seen. Then Adellena began to study how to release her from thence, and with all haste road to allinus' house, where being arrived, she declared all that she knew as concerning Ornatus, and how Lenon had carried Artesia by violence into the green Fortress. Allinus being glad to hear that Ornatus was alive, promised to redeem Artesia from lenon's custody, and that to effect, the next evening caused his men to mount themselves, and himself with some fi●e of them, disguised from being known, came to the green Fortress, and one of them knocking whilst the other hid themselves, the servants little suspecting any such ambush or intent, opened the gate, when presently they rushed in, and soon found out Artesia, whom Allinus told who he was, and to what intent he came: Artesia was glad thereof, and willingly yielded to go with him, but the old woman made such an outcry, that all the place rung thereof: one of Allinus servants seeing she would not be pacified, drew his sword and thrust it through her body, and so with a yelling cry, she gave up the ghost. Then presently Allinus departed with her, intending to carry her to his own house, to keep her there unknown, until he could hear of Ornatus. And remembering that the two servants were fled, and would no doubt certify Lenon what was done, would not go back the same way he came, though the readiest▪ for than he thought he should meet them, but went a more secret way, thinking by that means to pass unseen, and entering into the plains where cattle fed, Allinus espied a company coming towards them, whom he presently suspected to be Lenon, which in reason he could not think, but that fear persuaded him thereto? the company likewise espying them (who were certain Pirates that were wandered from their ships to steal cattle) wondered what they should be that were so late abroad, and being ready to any mischief, set upon Allinus and his company, who thinking it had been Lenon would by no means yield, nor speak, fearing he should descry them, but resisted the Pirates, who being used to many such meetings, soon slew two of Allinus servants and had given himself many grievous wounds, enforcing him to yield. Who taking from him all that was good, constraining A●tesia to go with them, and hasted to their ships, when having conveyed her aboard, to prevent the worst, hoist sail, and launched into the deep. Then was Allinus left in most miserable estate, with all speed hasting to his house. lenon's servants likewise were by that time it was mindnight gotten to the Palace, and called their Lord out of his bed, to certify him what was happened, who presently mounted himself, and with a sufficient company road to the Fortress, and entering, found Flera slain, and all else fled, then began he to muse who should do that deed, and what they should be that had carried away Artesia: by this time it was daylight, and Lenon rested in exceeding v●xation to be dispossessed of his beautiful Love, yet he commanded his men to post by companies several ways, if it were possible to find those that had done that deed: whilst he himself remained there bewailing that misfortune, his servants had not rode far: but (by the light of the day, which discovereth things done in darkness) they found Allinus two servants, whose dead bodies they carried back to the fortress. Lenon seeing them, presently assured himself that Allinus was a party in this action, and that he had taken away Artesia to seek her death To prevent wihch mischief (as he thought then or never to be done) he presently road home to the Court, and humbly upon his knee, entreated his father to grant him licence with a sufficient power to rescue Artesia from Allinus, who intended to murder her, declaring how he himself found her in adellena's house, and how that he had placed her in the green Fortress, to defend her from Allinus and others cruelty, being left fatherless: and how that night Allinus had taken her from thence by treason, and intended no less than her ruin. The king hearing his sons speeches granted his request. Then presently divers to the number of t●ree hundredth men, with as much speed as could possibly be, armed themselves, and in haste with Lenon, went to allinus' Castle, into which they violently and unawares to any within entered. Lenon presently laid hands on Allinus, whom he ●ounde sore wounded ask him for Artesia, who thinking some of his servants had before bewrayed what he had done, presently confessed the truth of all, both of his intent and how Artesia was rescued from him, but by whom he knew not, and how at that time two of his servants were slain.  
Lenon giving no credit to his speeches, never left till he had searched the whole Castle throughout, but not finding her, accused Allinus that he had murdered her, commanding his men to bind him, and carry him as a Traitor to the Court. Who being come before the King, confessed the truth as before he had done, utterly denying that he never sought Artesias death, but her safety: but yet notwithstanding the King was so overruled by lenon's accusations and persuasions, that he committed him to prison, his goods and lands were seized upon as a Traitor, his Lady wife turned out of do●res in poor array, and all cruelty and outrage committed against his servants and kinsfolks, and commandment given, that none should succour them. Allinus being in prison laden with irons, and hardly used, yet endured that affliction patiently, but hearing of his Lady's calamity▪ and how she was vaiustly constrained to beg that all her li●e long had been tenderly brought up, thought those sorrows would soon bring her to an end, and entered into many bitter lamentations for her and his own misfortune which were too tedious to recite, his servants were constrained to disguise themselves, and travel into farther places of the Country to live unknown, otherwise none would have entertained them. His Lady was compelled to seek out kinswomen of hers, that lived in the country, of whom she was entertained, and there lived a poor life, far differing from her former life, which she took most patiently. And thus was Allinus house defaced, his goods and lands seized upon, himself imprisoned, his wife in poor estate his servants driven to wander from place to place, ready of●en to perish for want of succour and all his dignity turned to misery, only by lenon's malice: who had no ground for those accusations he used against him, but only of a vain suppose, and mad frantic affection that overruled his heart, which so much prevailed with him, that he sought by all means he could, his death.   

CHAP. XI. How Ornatus got shipping into Phrygia. How Allings was set all liberty: and how the Pirates cast lots who should possess Artesia.  
ORnatus all this while remained in the country of Anatolia, with Alprinus and Lucida, in great grief, for want of means to depart into Phrygia, to see what was become of his dear Love Artesia: but being a long time frustrated by reason none of the ships that were at sea came home, he began to despair, thinking that Artesia supposing him to be dead by reason of his long absence, would now marry Lenon, which grief, and many other doubtful thoughts oppressed his heart with such passion, that he began to wax sick, and afterwards fell into an exceeding fever, which held him for the space of three months in great extremity, which surely had abridged his days: had he not been most carefully nourished by Lucida, who had an especial care of his good. During which time of his sickness, certain ships of Phrygia arrived on the coast of Anatolia, some fourteen miles distant from the Town where Ornatus was, of which he had intelligence by certain Factors belonging to Lucidas Father, which news revived his spirits with joy, before drooping with care, that within few days he recovered his former health, which greatly rejoiced Alprinus and Lucida, whose hearts were linked unto him, in hands of unseparable friendship: who likewise dealt so effectually for him, that they attained warrant for his passage, and furnished him with all kind of necessaries, and sufficient store of gold to bear his charges.  
Lucida likewise entreating her father to agree with the Phrygian Merchants for his convoy, for that himself would not be known, disguising himself into the habit of a Pilgrim, whic● kind of people, might without disturbance pass unexamined, and without molestation. And the time of his departure being come, he took his leave of Lucida. Who took his departure with such exceeding sorrow, that the abundance of her flowing tears stopped the passage of her speech. Alprinus likewise with many courtesies bade him farewell, and wished his prosperous success. Thus departed he the confines of Anatolia, where he was in so short space so well beloved, and so kindly used, that had not his, love to Artesia, and hope to find her in safety constrained him, he could have been contented to have spent the term of his life in that place.  
The Merchants of Phrygia had not sailed many days, but they arrived in a haven some ten miles distant from the Court, whither Ornatus determined to travel, and having taken his leave of the Mariners, and paid them their due, furnished with all things fit for his disguise, he took his journey, and the first night lodged at a village near adjoining to his father's Castle, the custom of which place he well knew before, and therefore framed his behaviour accordingly. And being set at supper amongst such guest's as lodged in that house with him, the Host named Mylo, suddenly fight, which one of them noting, demanded what inward grief drove him thereto. Marry sir quoth he, if you have not already heard the news, I will tell you so much as I know, which I would I had never known. Within few● days there dwelled an ancient Knight hereby named Allinus, exceedingly well beloved of all men, who is lately fallen into great misery, the occasion whereof was this, than did he declare the manner of all that had happened unto Allinus, how Artesia was taken from him, but by whom no man ●nows, himself in prison, his goods confiscated, and his wife & servants turned out of doors, with command that none should succour them.  
Ornatus heart was so pinched with this news, that he was ready to fall under the Table, which old Mylo and the rest noted, perceiving such a change of countenance in him, that they all denied him to be exceedingly sick: but he fearing to discover himself, told them it was but an ordinary course with him, to be so troubled: but being unable to mitigate that passion, he rose from the table, and got to his chamber, where being alone, he began to meditate the depth of these mischances, imputing the original thereof to proceed from himself. That he entered into these bitter plaints. My misfortunes are without compare, and I more miserable than any wretch living: By my evil destinies, Artesia was first left in misery, afterwards imprisoned, and now surprised by those that will intend her ruin, or dishonour. My father imprisoned, my mother banished: all his lands, livings, servants, and friends, taken from him, and he subject to lenon's mercy, that is merciless, cruel, deceitful, and malicious.  
Only by my folly, are these mischances befallen. Can there then be any more wretched than myself? hath not my father cause to wish that he had never begotten me, and my mother that she had never borne me? Hath not Artesia cause to accuse me, hate me, and forsake me? When for my sake, by my folly, and want of wisdom, she is brought to so many miseries? What shall I do? or what remedy shall I seek, when all things is past recure? Whom may I blame, but myself? Is there any that is interressed in the cause of these woes, but myself? Lenon, Lenon, as well as myself, hath procured these evils: his affection to Artesia, hath caused my banishment, my parent's woe, and her loss. To travel in her search, and leave my father in prison, the one would be in vain, when I know not whither she is conveyed, and the other dangerous to his safety, for Lenon no doubt of malice will seek his death.  
In these and such like plaints he spent most part of that night.  
Early the next morning coming out of his Chamber, he heard a great tumult in that Village: the occasion whereof, was this: Such as were Tenants and friends to Allinus▪ hearing of his unjust imprisonment, and with what cruelty Lenon sought his overthrow, assembled themselves together, with purpose to entreat the King for his release: that in the end there was three hundred of them assembled. The common people, and such as were idle persons, and ready to any attempt, misconceiving their intent, and bearing a mind desirous of liberty, which they thought they were restrained from, by certain strict laws the King had made, gathered unto them, that contrary to their expectation, there was a multitude: the intent of whose assembly, being demanded, they answered, that they meant to redeem Allinus: amongst whom, Ornatus in his disguise, thrust himself, using many forcible persuasions to urge them forwards to that attempt. That they were ready to run confusedly to the Court, not regarding danger, nor the displeasure of the King.  
One of Allinus friends named Thrasus, standing up amongst the rest, craved audience, to whom they all listened, whilst he said.  
I perceive your intent is to release Allinus, wherein you shall show your love to him, and do a deed a worthy to be eternised, for that he hath not at all deserved to have such injustice ministered unto him: therefore be wise in this attempt, and first know against whom you bear arms: that is, against your lawful King, who may punish this fact with death: for that we● undertake to break those laws which he hath ordained.  
But follow my counsel, and I will set you down a course, whereby you shall attain your desire, and be void of any such danger, which is this. First let us all repair to the Court, and humbly entreat the King for his release, if he will not grant that, then that he would have his cause tried by the rest of the Peers of the land; Which if he also deny, then may we with good cause venture our lines in his rescue: The multitude hearing Trasus, in sign of consent, all cried, Trasus, Trasus, shall be our Captain.  
Then presently every one with such furniture as they had, hasted to the Court, and coming together, would not seem to enter by force, but with a full consent yielded to Thrasus' directions. Who desired one of the guard to certify his Majesty that there were a number of his subjects gathered together, with no intent of evil, but only humbly to crave a boon at his highness hand. The King being certified hereof, was much troubled in his mind what the thing should be they would demand, and being persuaded by Lenon, would not himself come out, but sent one of his Knights to demand what was there request. Thrasus declared unto him the cause of their coming, and what they demanded. Which when the King understood, being exceedingly enraged at their boldness, bade the knight make them this answer, that he was not by his subjects to be controlled, and therefore denied to perform the least of their demand: commanding them presently to depart every man to their several place, lest he punished their presumption with death. The messenger had not scarce ended his words, but presently the unruly multitude began to rush in at the Court gates, some carelessly ruinating whatsoever came next hand, some breaking down windows, some assailing such as resisted them, and every one bent to do mischief. The King fearing the people's unruly rebellion, would come to some greater mischief than could suddenly be prevented, and might also endanger his person, not knowing who had instigated them thereto, with the Queen and Lenon fled. Which when Thrasus knew, calling to the multitude, he willed them in any wise not to destroy the King's house, not attempt any thing more to displease his Majesty, for that the King was departed, and he had Allinus at liberty. But notwithstanding some bent only to enrich themselves, spoiled the King's treasure, and utterly defaced the house: by which time the night drew nigh, and every one began to withdr●w themselves. Allinus seeing what exceeding mischief this attempt had bred, which was done contrary to his thought, and without his consent, yet thought it best not to trust to the King's mercy, though he were never so innocent, for notwithstanding that he would suppose it was done by his procurement, therefore (after Thrasus had willed the unruly multitude to depart as secretly as they could, every one to his house, to prevent further danger & save their lives, by keeping themselves unknown) he and Thrasus that night, without delay disguised themselves, and fled towards the coast to get shipping for Armenia, whither they intended to travel.  
Ornatus was by and beheld all this, glad of his father's escape, not purposing at all to discover himself, until he had found Artesia, in whose search he meant presently to travel: but such confused thoughts, whither to direct his steps, did so overwhelm his conceits, that he rested like one metamorphosed, not knowing whether he would ●éeke her by sea or by land. By sea he thought his labours would be in vain, and if he should go to find her by land, he knew not whether she might be at sea, and so conveyed into foreign Countries. At last remembering he had heard Mylo say she was rescued from Allinus in the desert where his cattle fed, he determined to travel thither, though he had little hope to find her there. And being come thither, sometimes bewailing her absence, accusing his hard fortune, breathing forth bitter sighs in remembrance of her loss, and renewing the remembrance of their love, be spent some three days in that place, uttering those plaints to the trees and birds, for otherwise there was none to hear him. Where for a while we will leave him.  
The Pirates having as is before said, taken Artesia from Allinus, and with her such wealth as they could find about them, having withal furnished themselves with the spoil of such cattle as fed in those places, returned to their Ship, and with haste hoist fail, the night being now past. One that was chief amongst the rest, named Luprates, went down to view Artesia, having as yet not seen her beauty by reason of the night, and now coming near her, and beholding her divine form, his mind was presently ravished with that sight, and he thought that none but himself should enjoy her, which took such efficacy, that whereas before he intended nothing but her dishonour, his mind was now altered, and he intended to use her in most reverent and decent sort, and not by cruelty, but curtes●●, to win her love. But beholding her tears, and exceeding lamentation, and how impatiently she endured the extremities she was driven unto, coming towards her with a most submiss gesture, friendly countenaance, and gentle speech, he said. Fair Lady, be not any thing disquieted that you are made captive to such as delight in spoil, for though our minds are otherwise bend to all incivility, yet to yourself shall no wrong be offered, such virtue hath beauty imprinted in my heart, and whereas heretofore without mercy, both I and the rest of my consorts have not regarded the plaints, distress, nor what wrong we have offered either to Lady or damosel, yet towards yourself is my heart altered, and my meaning honestly bend: that I assure you not only of quiet, and to be void of all wrong by us to be done, but also, wherein soever I may work your will, quiet, ease, or desire, I will most willingly employ my uttermost endeavours. Then I beseech you mitigate these cares, banish this sorrow, & dry up your tears: for you have no cause of care, nor occasion of sorrow: but rather to say, this virtue resteth ●●me, to alter rude and barbarous minds, to civil & virtuous behaviour. Artesia looking earnestly upon him, being endued with an exceeding wit, and thinking it best to speak him fair that used her so kindly, said. Sir, I know not how to mitigate my grief, when it increaseth: or how can I be void of care, unless I should grow altogether careless, being only subject to woe, & none so unfortunate as myself, having endured so many afflictions & crosses in all respects, that I know not how to assure myself of the least quiet? Then give me leave to continue my endless plaints, & do not blame me of impatiency, nor think I suspect your speeches, or distrust your fidelity, if in some sort I continue my sorrows: for I have so long continued in them, as I can better away with than then mirth: for that to me is a stranger. Yet notwithstanding my heart will harbour some quiet, if by your courtesy I may rest in security, and be sheltered from wrong. By this time they were arrived at their place of harbour, which was betwixt the hollow of two Rocks, or rather Rocky islands, where their ship lay safe from weather, and so far under their shadow, that it could not be seen. Themselves conveying such wealth as they from time to time got into hollow Caves, of great largeness, where was all things necessary; and the rest of Luprates fellows called him up. When having fastened their ship, Luprates brought Artesia into the Cave, who beholding the same, was surprised with an exceeding discomfort, of ever getting from thence.  
Some of the ruder sort liking Artesia, began their rude behaviour towards her, but Lupratus stepping unto them, uttered these speeches. My masters, thus long have I lived your Captain in this place, with care respecting your good as much as mine own, and taking but an equal share with you, of such prizes as we have taken, and rather the least part, now only in respect of my faith and fidelity, I request to have this damosel as my prize, the rest of the wealth take you. In doing which, you shall bind me unto you for ever. One of the rest liking artesia's beauty as well as he, and of a more rude mind, disdaining that he alone should have her possession, said. Captain, all which you say we confess to be true: neither hath our care been any way less than yours: therefore, there is no reason why you should claim any peculiar privilege above any of us: beside, you know we made a law, and bound ourselves to perform the same by oath, which was, that none should possess any thing without the general consent of us all. Then perform those conditions, and let her belong to us all, or to the chiefest of us, & in so doing, neither of us shall sustain wrong: thus began they to contend about Artesia, every one desirous to possess her, & yet neither willing any should have her but himself, that they were likely to mutiny and fall out, till at the last they concluded to cast lots & she fell to Luprates share, that was the most worthy of that privilege, for that he bore the most virtuous mind. Thus for a time this strife was ended, and Artesia was by Luprates kindly used for many days: in the end their victuals began to waste, & they thought it high time to seek for more, that they determined to fetch in some as before they had done. But than began Luprates to take care in whose custody to lea●● Artesia, lest in his absence they should do her wrong. Amongst the rest he chose out one whom he thought fittest, and to him he committed her, by whose means Artesia rested void of disturbance, though not void of exceeding care that continually tormented her, fearing never to see Ornatus again, nor to be released from that place of bondage.   

CHAP. XII. How Ornatus found Artesia, and preserved her life: and how she was again taken from him by Lenon, and what afterwards befell.  
LVprates and the rest, being landed, came in the night into the plains to steal cattle, and by chance lighted on the place where Ornatus haunted, being directed to him by the sound of his lamentations: Luprates demanded what he was, I am (quoth he) a most miserable forlorn creature, by misfortune drawn to all extremity. Then quoth he, art thou not for our company: and with that they departed, leaving him ther●. Ornatus heart began presently to misdoubt that they were the very same that had taken Artesia from Allinus which made him presently study how to have them apprehended: remembering that he had heard many complain that their cattle were often stolen, he supposed verily them to be the thieves, that with all the haste he could, he ran to the next village and raised the Townsmen, telling them what he had seen, who presently issued out, and with such weapons as came next to hand followed the Pirates, and soon found them, setting upon them, took two of them, and the rest, some sore wounded & hurt, fled to their Ship, and with all the haste they could get to their harbour.  
Early the next morning, the inhabitants conveyed the Pirates to the Court, who being come before the King, confessed the manner of their life, and where they lived. Then Lenon presently supposed, that they were the very same that had taken Artesia from Allinus, and demanding the same of them, they told him that there was su●h a damosel in their Cave, and that she told them her name was Artesia. Then Lenon without delay strongly accompanied, rode to the next Haven, and there got shipping by the Pirates directions, to find out their fort. Ornatus likewise, after he had raised the people, secretly followed the Pirates unto the place, where their ship lay, and amongst the rest entered the same: who by reason of their haste & exceeding fear, regarded him not, who thrust himself into that danger, only to see it Artesia were in their custody, not reeking how his life might be endangered thereby, but the Pirates by Luprates directions hasted to the fort, and from thence took Artesia into their ship, not daring to stay there, for that they knew some of their fellows were taken, who might by compulsion be constrained to reveals the place of their abode.  
Ornatus no sooner espied Artesia, but he knew her, and his heart leapt within him for joy to see that happy sight, but he durst not speak to her, nor scarce settle his eyes to behode her, for fear of suspect, for that Luprates marveled how he came amongst them: demanding what he was, and what he made thrre? I am (quoth he) a poor Pilgrim, that against my will was by some of this company constrained to come aboard.  
Luprates believing he said true, made no farther question, but with hast sailed from Phrygia, conveying A●tesia into his Cabin, using many speeches to comfort her.  
They had not sailed many hours, but a contrary wind began to arise, and the Heavens were darkened with thick Clouds, and such a mighty tempest arose, that the ship was by violence driven back, their main Mast broken and thrown overboorde, and all in danger of destruction, had not the land been near, for the ship driven by violence of the Sea, ran a ground, and there split in sunder, and the Pirates with great hazard escaped drowning: none of them nor Luprates once regarding Artesia, but Ornatus seeing in what peril she was, caught hold on her, and getting on to a plank, being withal somewhat skilful to swim, with much ado ga●e on to the firm land, and preserved her from a miserable death by drowning.  
He was no sooner past danger, but Luprates would have taken her from him, but Ornatus seeing none but himself there, & all the rest fled for fear, told him since he had forsaken her in extremity, he was not worthy of her, and therefore should not have her. Villain (quoth Luprates) yield her me with quiet, or else thy life shall not detain her. With that Ornatus caught hold on a board which he cloven in sunder with his foot, and with the same gave Luprates so sudden and deadly a wound, that the brains fell about the place, and he died. By this time the storm was quite overpast, and Ornatus seeing his dear Love very weak with fear and distemperature, by the arm led her unto a mossy bank, where the suns bright beams had full force to dry her garments dropping with wet.  
Artesia seeing how tenderly this stranger regarded her, and with what pain he had preserved her, when she was of all but him forsaken, being willing to show that she was grateful, said▪ Sir the pains you have taken, and friendship you have shown to me, deserve more thanks and recompense than I am able to give: and therefore I desire you so think, that if I were able I would requite the same: but my mis●ortunes are so exceeding, that they withhold me from doing that I would: only thanks is the small requital I can yield in token of a grateful mind: being by your means at more quiet than many days I have been, though more disquieted than you would judge: but now I rely upon your virtues, with hope thereby to be preserved, and not driven to further misery.  
Fair Lady, (quoth Ornatus) my life shall be spent in your defence, neither will I part from you until I have brought you to the place which you desire, requesting you to make us doubt of my loyalty. I suppose your name is Artesia, because (quoth he) in my travels I have met a Gentleman of this country named Ornatus, of whom I learned the truth of many of your misfortunes: who I assure you is in good health. O blessed news (quoth she,) then will I hope once again to se● my dear Ornatus, whose absence hath been my only cause of woe.  
She had scarce ended those words, but Ornatus espied a ship even then come a shore, where theirs was cast away, most of the men landed, which was the ship wherein Lenon was, who beheld the other ship cast away, and the storm being ceased arrived there. From whom Ornatus knew not how to hide himself: and Artesia not so much as thinking Lenon had been in it, but that it was some ship that likewise by the storm was driven to land there. Presently the men began to spread themselves every way, and some of them soon espied Artesia, giving Lenon knowledge thereof, who immediately came towards her, most kindly saluting her, but she being exceedingly dismayed with his sight, whom she most mortally hated, for very grief burst into tears, that in abundance gushed from her eyes.  
Lenon marveling thereat, (and little thinking how much she hated him, and how unwelcome he was) rather expecting thanks for his pains then reproof, said; My dear Artesia, be not now discomforted, since there is no further cause of care, I have most diligently laboured to release you from grief ever since Allinus by treason conveyed you from my custody: taking your absence in great heaviness, for that it pinched my heart to think you should fall into such distress: but now that all those misfortunes are past, I beseech you go with me to the Court, where I will labour to procure your content.  
artesia's heart was vexed to hear his speeches, that she made him this answer.  
Most discourteous Lenon, none but yourself are cause of my woe, whose sight more tormenteth me, than all the afflictions I ever endured: Allinus carried me indeed from the green Fortress, not by treason, but to shelter me from dishonour, which you did intend, else would you not have inffered me to endure such miseries as I did by my hellish keeper. Think you I have cause either to think you intent my good, or take any comfort by your presence, when you only disquiet me, not suffering me to enjoy my liberty, but would perforce constrain me to that I cannot like. Had you left me in adellena's house, than had I not fallen into such miseries as since that I have endured, nor Allinus for his virtue have been brought to poverty, that being before my professed enemy, seeing my misery, it so mollified his heart, that he hath pitied me, and sought my liberty, and only by cruelty, not by justice, have you sought his overthrow. Then I beseech you leave me here, for I had rather endure the hazard of my misfortune, then live to be tormented with your importunacy. Lenon was so amazed to hear her unkind reply, little thinking he had been so much out of her favour, that he could not tell what to say: sometimes thinking to leave her there, and utterly to forsake her, but that thought was soon overcome by his affection or violent sting of desire to enjoy her love: that once again he said; Why Artesia do you regard my good will no more, then for my pains, to yield me rebukes: and for my love, disdain? That I caused you to be brought from adellena's house, was, for that being there you were subject to many misfortunes. And if I imprisoned Allinus, it was for that I supposed him your enemy, and feared he would have done you wrong: so that whatsoever I did with intent of good, you repay me with dislike: & convert all my doings to the worst meaning: wherein you show yourself too cruel, that will not yield me the least favour for my constant love. O Artesia be not so hard hearted, Artesia notwithstanding many fair promises, vows, and protestations he made, would not yield to go with him, but desired rather that he would leave her there. Lenon told her, though not for his sake, yet for her safety, it were best for her to go: which said, he commanded his servants to place her in a Litter. Which when she saw she must needs do, she called to Ornatus, saying: Good Palmer go along with me, that for the kindness you have shown in preserving my life, I may yield you some recompense. And (quoth she) to Lenon, I request nothing of you for myself, but for this strange Pilgrim, who when by the storm the ship was cast away, I ready to perish, caught me out of the water and preserved my life: and do not for his good will to me, use him as you did my dear Sylvian, whom you banished, for that she preserved my life from my unkind uncle, with that she wept exceedingly. Then Lenon asked Ornatus what he was, I am (quoth he) as you see, a Pilgrim, that was forced to come aboard the Pirates ship, and (amongst the rest) was ready to perish, but that by the divine providence, I was ordained to preserve that virtuous Damosels life. For that deed quoth Lenon, I will reward you most kindly: therefore go along with us. Than they all departed to the Court. Lenon presently caused Artesia to be lodged in a most sumptuous place of the Court, appointing divers Damsels to attend her, thinking by those means to win her to consent to love him: but all proved vain, his care was cast away, his cost to little effect, and his kindness unregarded. For Artesia was so constant to Ornatus, that she hated Lenon: her heart was wholly employed to wish his good, and lenon's ill. For she determined never to love him, though she were assured of Ornatus death: that she spent her time in continual care & sadness, showing no sign of joy, no show of comfort, but even as one that regarded no rest, nor took felicity in any thing, that Lenon both admired the same, and laboured by many means to alter that humour: but the more he sought to please her, the more she was displeased: and more discontented at his kindness then any thing else. In this sort she continued many days, without the least show of alteration.  
Ornatus all this while remaining in the Court, (making the cause of his state) to receive Lenon's promised reward, whereas indeed he stayed to see what would become of Artesia, or by what means to get her from thence To effect which, he saw no possible means, nor could in many days come to see Artesia, which filled his heart with grief: only comforted himself with remembering her constant loyalty And one day being by himself alone, he entered into these cogitations. Ornatus thou hast remained many days in this place, kept from thy Love, and sought no means to set thy heart at rest, or her at liberty. Dost thou make no more account of her love, then to attempt nothing to attain the same? or are thy spirits of no more courage? then they will do nothing: thy wit so shallow, thou canst devise no stratagems, or thy mind so cowardly, thou darest not revenge the wrong Lenon doth she? What though he be the Prince and heir of this land, is not both he and his father hated, ruling by usurpation, and with cruelty, not with justice, hath sought the downfall of thy house? Can Artesia think either valour or virtue to rest in thee, when she shall know how near thou art her so, but darest not touch him? will she not esteem she a coward and unworthy to enjoy her love? Nay when she knoweth this, will she not alter her love? Why shouldest not thou seek thy own content, though it be with his discontent? thou art every way as good as he by birth, though he now rule the land: hath not thy father said, that his father was but a Captain in the last King's days, and by treason put his lawful King to death, and so wan the rule? Then Ornatus revive thy spirits, seem not dismayed with any danger fear not misfortune, seek to release thy Love, and venture thy life therein: for living thus thou shalt be deprived of her love. Lenon will by force or fair means overcome her, and then mayest thou blame this delay. The King is now sick, and he being dead, Lenon must reign, who then may do what he list. Then take the advantage of the time, and do not frostrate thy blessed hope● with slothful delay. Having ended this meditation, he then began to study how to perform his will: wherein he found many contrarieties. But presently he beheld Lenon entering the Court, before whom he stood so opposite, that he could not choose but note him, and withal remembered how earnestly Artesia had entreated him on the Pilgrim's behalf, whom he thought she esteemed, and therefore suddenly this cogitation arose in his fancy, to use him as an instrument to win her love: that calling Ornatus unto him, he said: Pilgrim, I pray thee blame me not for forgetting to perform my promise made to Artesia as concerning thee, which I have not neglected for want of good will, but by reason of thousands of cares that daily torment me, only procured by her unkindness: but if thou wilt undertake on my behalf to persuade her to yield to my just request, for that I think thou mayst prevail with her above any, I will not only reward thy former kindness so shown to her, but also for thy pains herein, promote thee to high dignity. Therefore I pray thee give consent to follow my counsel herein. Ornatus was willing to be employed in that business, which fell out according to his hearts desire: and therefore made him this answer. My Noble Lord, for that I perceive your intent is good, I will be ready to follow your directions, and do you any service I can: wherein I know not whether I shall prove fortunate or no: but assuring you that I will deal both faithfully and effectually in that which I shall undertake.  
Lenon was as glad as he, that he yielded to do that which he thought least to perform: and therefore presently gave command, that the Pilgrim only should have her in custody, Artesia marveled that her keepers were changed, misdoubted some intent of hard usage, but seeing it was the Pilgrim that now had her custody, her heart was comforted.   

CHAP. XIII. How Ornatus had the custody of Artesia: how he discovered himself unto her: how Allinus and Trasus arrived in Armenia, and got the King to send Ambassadors into Phrygia.  
ORnatus at his first coming, found her sitting in the darkest corner of the Chamber, bewailing her misfortune, with salt tears bedewing her purple cheeks: her ornaments disorderly put on, and her golden tresses hanging carelessly down, which added beauty to her sweet beauty, and though disordered, most comely. Leaning her arm upon a Chair, and her cheek laid upon the back of her hand: when he beheld her sitting in this uncomfortable sort, his heart was ready to melt with remorse: and he breathed forth so bitter a sigh, that she heard the same, which he perceiving came towards her with humble behaviour, saying. Most virtuous Lady, pardon my presumption, in presuming thus unmannerly to interrupt your quiet: Lenon the Prince hath appointed me to be your attendant, therefore I beseech you, notwithstanding I am his substitute: command me in any doubtful sort, and I will most willingly employ my uttermost endeavours to purchase your content. Artesia raising herself from the ground, said. Pilgrim, I thank you for your kind proffer, and am glad you are my keeper, for two causes: one, for that I trust your virtues will not suffer me to be injured, the other, for that I would hear out your discourse of my dear friend Ornatus, which I was hindered from by Lenon's sudden finding me. Lady, (quoth he) you shallbe assured of the one, and hear more of the other, if first you will vouchsafe without offence, to hear my speech, and suffer me to execute the charge Lenon hath given me, and I have undertaken. Why what is that (quoth Artesia) I will not be offended? Lenon hath made known to me his love, and how long, and with what constancy it is grounded, commanding and entreating me in his behalf to become an humble suitor unto you: he telleth me that still you ungently disdain him without cause, reason, or consideration. Therefore I humbly desire, both for that he is constant, a Prince, and of good and virtuous gifts, yield to his love or else to satisfy me of the chiefest reasons that withhold you from the same. Pilgrim (quoth she) for that my mind persuadeth me, you in wisdom will conceive of reason: and will be faithful in concealing that which I shall disclose: I answer you thus. First, admit Lenon did love me (yet by his usage I find the contrary) nor I cannot fancy him, for that I already have plighted my faith to another, more worthy than himself, which is that most virtuous & kind Gentleman Ornatus, who likewise equalleth me in affection: and therefore I should dishonour my name, break my faith, and reap perpetual infamy, if I should show myself so inconstant. These I think are reasons (to a reasonable creature) sufficient, and of such force, as none can contradict: and therefore no more can be said therein. Besides were not all this so, you have no reason to persuade me to that which I have so often denied, and will never yield unto. Your reasons indeed (quoth he) are great, and the cause such, as should no way be violated: but now you are subject to his mercy: and he may enforce you to that which you are most unwilling to have done: then what remedy have you, but rather to yield, then endure such extremity as he may use? Yes, (quoth she) when I can preserve myself no longer from his lust, death shall rid me from his power, which I will execute upon myself, rather than condescend to yield him so much as an outward show of favour. Therefore I pray use no more words tending to the breach of my faith, and furtherance of his love, for kne● you but how hateful his name were unto me, and how odious to think of his doting love, you would of pity desist to ●orment one with the sound of that ominous monster, but rather seek to comfort my distressed state, and poor pining heart, almost most drowned with sorrow: being more unfortunate, then ever any was by these afflictions, and the loss of my dear Ornatus, whose presence should release me from this thraldom, and labyrinth of discontent. Of whom if you can tell me any tidings, I beseech you impart them unto me: thereby to add comfort to mitigate my care.  
Ornatus was so ravished to hear her utter such heavenly speeches, that he had much ado to refrain from embracing her: uttering these speeches. How happy is Ornatus by attaining the love of so virtuous and constant a Lady, worthy to be admired, eternised, and for ever honoured? what comfort may these pleasing words bring to his heart? What torment can be not account pleasure, endured for so sweet a Lady's safety? and what pains should he refuse to procure her sweet content? O Artesia, divine Artesia, Ornatus is not able to express his content, nor your desert: unable to recompense your kindness, and everlastingly bound to you in all f●r●●e bands of faithful loyalty. In your heart is the harbour of true loyalty, grounded upon virtuous love. Then how happy is he by being enriched, and possessed of such a love? His reward is greater than his pain: his pleasure more than ever his sorrow could be: and his gains a thousands times beyond his loss. Why should I then conceal the troth of his safety from you? With that he said: Behold Artesia, your Ornatus: with that he discovered himself unto her, & she perfectly knew him. Being almost amazed with that heavenly sight: when with a sweet behaviour, they both embraced each other, intermingling their kisses, with tears of joy that in abundance distilled from their eyes, surfeiting so much in that sweet delight, that they were loath to part, but that fear to be espied, compelled them. Taking such exceeding com●ort in each others presence, as is not to be express: withal, using many kindnesses usual betwixt faithful friends, to express their joy, he sometimes embracing her, & she again with a sweet kiss, welcoming him, being so many, kind, and hearty, as would ask a skilful discretion. At last having somewhat recreated themselves, and with sudden joy banished some part of their care, they thought it time to study how to procure their happiness, lest the same might again be crossed by Lenon. Who by that time expected to hear from him. Therefore Ornatus said? My most dear and kind Artesia, by whose love my life is preserved. I am not able to express the joy my heart conceiveth, by this fortunate meeting, being likewise as sorry to think of the misfortune you have endured by my careless oversight, and how to get you from this place, and from lenon's affection, whom I know to be of such uncivil a disposition, that he will leave no disloyal means unattempted to further his intent.  
Therefore in this urgent extremity, if you will be contented to esteem me as your friend, and follow my directions, I will labour all that I can to get you from this place. My true friend Ornatus (said Artesia) I have dedicated myself to your disposition, and made myself all one with you, both in heart, body, and mind, that whatsoever you would wish yourself, you do to me, & whatsoever pleaseth you, cannot displease me, for I am yourself: therefore I commit all things to your wisdom & rest to be ruled, counseled and ordered by you, in whatsoever you shall think convenient: and will do any thing you shall counsel me unto, both for our escape from hence, or otherwise: accounting my bliss yours, and yours mine, your cares mine, and your quiet, my content.  
lenon's love is most hateful unto me, and injury to you, than what means can you work to rid me, of that and revenge your own wrong, perform, for my consent is ready to yield to any thing you shall think convenient.  
I most humbly thank you, said Ornatus, and first I think this is the best course, to procure my good liking with him, and to rid us from hence, that at his next coming, you show a little more friendly countenance unto him, than heretofore you have done, as shall best agree with your wisdom, and he perceiving that my service hath done more for him then ever he could attain, will not only credit me, but also be ruled by me in any thing I shall counsa●le him unto. Which if you will perform commit the rest to me My deer Ornatus at your request I will do this, which otherwise I would never of myself yield unto, for that my love to you, and hate so him, would not suffer me so much to dissemble: but I pray God deliver me well from forth of his power, that I may in quiet enjoy your sweet company. These speeches being ended, they parted with a sweet kiss, he sighing, and she for grief shedding tears. Not long after Lenon came to Ornatus, requesting to know whether he had prevailed any thing with Artesia in his behalf▪ My Lord (quoth he) I have used many persuasions to her, which in some sort have prevailed, but hereafter I do not doubt by my persuasions, but to win her full consent: if you with wisdom will be directed by me, and not with rashness mar all: therefore go in unto her, but not to rashly, and see if she be not altered, Lenon embraced him in his arms, saying: thou bringest me tidings of exceeding comfort, for which I will reward thee most bountifully, With that he gave him a purse of gold: which Ornatus took, thinking that should be a means to further him, and hinder the giver Lenon entered Artesias chamber, using many kind speeches and submiss behaviours, whom she used more kindly than ever she had before done, which both filled his heart with joy, and made him according to the Pilgrim's directions, more careful of his behaviour, lest by any boldness he might offend her, that having past some small time with her, he departed.  
Now was Ornatus studying how to release Artesia, to further whose intent, the occasion thus fell out. Allinus and Trasus as is before said, gate shipping for Armenia, and arrived there with safety: first directing their course to the King's Palace, where Allinus was most honourably entertained, being somewhat allied to the King, to whom he declared both the cause of his exile, and the injury done to him by Thaeon, king of Phrigia. Turbul●s the Armenian King, comforted him all that he could, and bade him withal, request any thing at his hand & he would grant it him. Allinus alleging many things to persuade T●●bulus to yield thereto, requested him to send Ambassadors into Phrygia, either to request performance of certain articles, or else to give him open defiance for war. The articles were these: that Allinus should be restored to his lands, and the damage and loss he had sustained, should be repaid to the full, that his wife should be recalled from banishment, and that he should yield up Artesia to Allinus, if she should be in his custody and that the King and Lenon should be sworn to perform all this. Turbulus was easily won, and therefore presently sent four of his Noble men as Ambassadors, to request the performance of those conditions. Who even at that instant were landed in Phrygia, and news thereof brought to the Court, the King being himself somewhat sickly, sent Lenon to meet them, and give them entertainment: who was loath to go from artesia's sight, but assuring himself of the Pilgrim's faith, committed her wholly to his custody. Ornatus thought it now the fittest time to seek to escape, but he was hindered by other of lenon's servants, whom he had secretly appointed as overseers to look into the Pilgrim's action: that it was impossible for him to attempt any thing that way, but it must needs both be discovered and prevented. Ornatus seeing himself disappointed of his purpose that way, made Artesia acquainted with what he intended, and how he was prevented, spending the time of lenon's absence continually in her company. But having met the Armenian Ambassadors, brought them to the Court, where they were honourably entertained, and having declared their Embassage, Thaeon the King, told them they should receive answer within two days.  
Lenon hearing the articles, counseled his father not to yield to perform any such conditions, but rather to send Turbulus defiance For (quoth he) your Majesty are as absolutely King of Phrygia, as he of Armenia, and then what dishonour were it unto you to stoop to his command, and show yourself as it were afraid of his threats? for to bind yourself to this, were to become his subject: which would soon be published through the whole world to your dishonour. The King being overruled by his persuasions, gave the Ambassadors this answer, that he went not ●o perform the least of those articles they demanded, nor feared their King's threats of war, for that he was able to deal with a mightier foe than he. Using many other words, and some of reproach, that the Armenians denouncing open war according as they were commanded, departed.   

CHAP. XIIII. How Ornatus staying too late in artesia's chamber, was accused by lenon's servants, whom he slew. How Allinus with a band of Armenians landed in Phrygia: and how Ornatus was imprisoned.  
THaeon knew that the King of Armenia would perform his word, and therefore gave Lenon charge to muster up men throughout the whole land: committing the chief charge of the Army and ordering of these affairs, unto him, who more hardy bold, then wise, undertook all, and within short space, had gathered an exceeding great Army, and furnished certain ships, to meet with the Armenians by Sea if it might be possible, to vanquish them before they should land.  
These troubles filled the Commons hearts with grief, and their mouths with murmurings: for they understanding that the King of Armenia did offer war to Phrygia, in the behalf of Allinus that was generally beloved: there was few of those that were priest to those wars, but came unwillingly, and rather by constraint, being more ready to turn their sword points against Thaeon, then against Allinu●.  
Ornatus likewise hearing of these wars, by his wisdom found out the opinion of the multitude, and with what unwillingness they came to the wars, which when he was in some sort assured off, he came to the Camp, and amongst all the rest of his Familiars, espied Phylastes, who always loved him most dearly, him he knew to be of a most faithful and constant resolution, in performing his promise, and was by Lenon appointed one of the chiefest leaders.  
Ornatus finding him remote from the Camp, came to him, and after salutation, said: Sir Phylastes, I am sent unto you by a dear friend of yours, named Ornatus who trusteth so much in your virtues, that he is willing to put his life into your hands, which you shall hazard, in denying him one small favour, which with safety you may grant. First therefore, I request but your promise for your warranty, and then I will declare what I have in charge.  
My friend (quoth Phylastes) thou tellest me news of wonder, when thou sayest thou comest from Ornatus, whom I fear is long since dead: but if thou knowest the contrary, and canst resolve me thereof, I promise and swear to perform whatsoever thou shalt demand: for I am sure Ornatus knoweth that I love him, nor maketh any doubt thereof, which if he do, he iniurieth that love and friendship that hath passed between us.  
Then kind sir (quoth he) that Ornatus is not dead, but in safety, and I am that Ornatus, that notwithstanding my speech, make no doubt of your love.  
Phylastes beholding his countenance, knew him well, and for joy caught him in his arms. My dear friend Ornatus (quoth he) I am glad of your safety, and accursed be my soul▪ if I do not any thing that you shall command.  
I thank you (quoth Ornatus) to enter into the tedious discourse of my afflictions, would be tedious: but in few words I will tell you all. I loved Artesia long, but found no hope nor means to attain my love, which made me disguise myself into woman's apparel, naming myself Sylvian, and was fortunately entertained by Arbastus, whose death I found to be acted by Floretus, who falling into love with m●e told me for my sake he would poison Artesia at the Lodge, whither he conveyed her, I fearing to have her taken from me, and having won her love, told her his intent, and conveyed her to adellena's house: then Floretus and Lenon came thither, demanding her of me, whom I told I had poisoned her, according to his counsel: we striving, were brought before Thaeon, who banished me into Anatolia, from whence I came back, and by good fortune have the keeping of Artesia in this disguise, the manner I will tell you at more leisure. Now my dear friend Phylastes, my desire is to change my place with you, you to have the custody of A●tesia in my Palmer's weeds, and I to march into the field in your Armour, which if you grant, you shall bind me unto you for ever. Phylastes yielded to fulfil his request, and so for that time they parted, appointing to meet the next day. Ornatus being come to Artesia, told her where he had been, and what he intended, which made Artesia sad, dissuading him from his purpose in this sort: My dear Love, what need you venture your person in the dangers that are incident to war? will you leave me hear in doubt, and not rather stay with me to my comfort? there are enough besides and too many in the field, and Phylastes is able to execute his own place: then I beseech you do not leave me in discomfort, for how can I be void of care, when I shall think you are amongst so many enemies ready to be slaughtered? My dear Love (quoth he) that which I will do shallbe without any hazard at all, but shall procure both your and mine own content. Then I beseech you remit this care for my safety, for I will preserve myself from danger for your sake. Besides Phylastes virtue is such, that you need not once so much as think amiss of him: who I know would venture his life for my sake. Besides, my honour urgeth me, revenge of injuries done to yourself and me, and my father's safety, are reasons sufficient to persuade your consent: besides many other causes more forcible than these, too tedious to recite. Then I beseech you deny me not: for when it shall be known that my father was in armour in the field, and I in this place not regarding to aid him, it will turn to my great dishonour: and those which before did esteem well of me, will then begin to hate me: then let not your doubt and true love to me, hinder my determination: for on that mine honour, your safety, and my father's life dependeth. Artesia seeing she could by no means dissuade him, thought not to let him depart so suddenly, but cla●ping her tender arms about his neck, a thousands times kissed his lips, whilst with her abundant tears she bedeawed his manly cheeks. Ornatus took great sorrow at her heaviness, and delight in her embracings, that the contrarieties of his conceits were exceeding: pleasure itself, seeming more pleasant intermingled with care, and care a pleasure to be endured with such delight. Artesia was loath to let Ornat●s depart that night, for that she deemed he should be in danger the next ●ay, and he as unwilling to leave her in sorrow: she on the one side sollacing herself in his company, and he by her kindness making him forget to depart, that before they were aware, night was come and well spent, and Ornatus then bethinking himself, thought it was too late to depart. And Artesia, hearing him make a motion to be gone, desired him to stay. And yet my dear Ornatus (quoth she) do not you endanger yourself for my sake, for should lenon's servants find you here, it might redound to our great disquiet. Ornatus likewise well considering the inconvenience, took his leave of her, and left her sheadding abundance of tears. Ornatus being gone, found the servants awake, and watching his coming out, one of them saying; Pilgrim what maketh thee so saucy as to court my masters Love? Is this a fit time of the night to be in her chamber? my Lord shall understand your behaviour, and what familiarity is betwixt you: we take you to be some counterfeit, else would not such behaviours pass betwixt you as we have beheld. Therefore here shall you stay, until we give him knowledge of your doings and fidelity: with that they locked fast the door, not suffering him to go out or in. Ornatus by that perceived that they ha● seen the kindness betwixt him and A●tesia, which he knew if Lenon should understand, he would find out what he was: these thoughts troubled his heart exceedingly, that he was assured unless he could be rid of them, there was no means to escape death, if Lenon should know him. With these studies he sat a good while silent, till he perceived them inclined to sleep, and casting his eye aside, espied a bill hanging by the wall, to which he stole secretly, and taking hold of the same, he drew towards them, entering into these meditations. And shall I now commit murder, and endanger my soul by so heinous a sin? what will Artesia say if she know thou art so bloodily bend? and that thy heart is so hard, as to shed thine own country men's blood? Ornatus be well advised before thou do this deed, and bethink of some other mean: avoid the danger thou art ready to fall into. Other means Ornatus, yea but what other means hast thou? none at all, dost thou not see how they have betrayed thee, and made thee prisoner, what then needest thou make a question, to save thyself, and by their deaths preserve thine own life? which thy living, will be endangered, and being once done, thou art safe, but by delay, thy own life may perish. With that lifting up his arms with more than wonted force, he smote the one on the head, & beat out his brains: wherewith that other began to awake: but in his awaking, he struck him so full on the breast, that the bill piearst his heart, and he lay breathless sprawling in his gore. This done, Ornatus found a vaw●e and into the same he conveyed their dead bodies, purposing never to reveal what he had done. Then returning, he bethought himself of the keys of the doors that he had thrown into that vault with their bodies, devising how to get out, without suspicion of the deed he had done, that he was enforced to take the bill, & by main force, and often striving, wrong asunder the locks. His mind being exceedingly affrighted with these cares, he entered into artesia's chamber, to see whether he had disquieted her or no with the noise, her he found in bed, & fast a sleep with the light still burning by her-beds side, her breast uncovered down to the waste, and nothing to shroud her from his perfect view, but the single sheet, that say carelessly cast over her tender body, her arms c●st to either side of the bed, and her head leaning on the one side, with so sweet an aspect, as would have ravished a thousand beholders. Ornatus heart was revived to behold this sweet sight, that the remembrance thereof had banished all remembrance of his troubles past, and affected his heart with incomparable delight: that he stood like one amazed to behold her sweet beauty, and to take a surfeiting view of those her perfections, so amiably said forth. Artesia suddenly awaking blushed to see him so nigh, yet therewith more comforted then dismayed she caught the clothes and covered herself▪ whilst he folding his hand in hers, desired pardon for his boldness: but she viewing him well, beheld his pale and ghastly countenance, which drove her into fear, and raising herself upright in her bed, caught him in her arms, ask what he ailed to look so pale: M● dear Artesia (quoth he) since I parted from you, I have endured great danger, & passed through ● hell of calamities, which now I fear not. With that he let his head fall into her sweet bosom, and there made the period of his speech, feeling her tender heart pant, with the motions of her troubled spirits. In which palace he rested it a good while, whilst she with her soft hand curled his hair, and with sweet kisses, mollified his lips. Using many other familiarities, & sweet favours, proceeding from the depth of kind love, wherewith Ornatus was so ravished, that he not only took heavenly comfort therein, but also desired a further content, & possession of her love, which he never before asked, nor thought she would grant, but being heartened by the assurance of her Love, he used more bold behaviour, which she permitted: but at last growing more bold than she thought convenient for her modesty to permit, with a kind and lovely behaviour, she both blamed and hindered him, but the motions of affection so far prevailed with them both, that he desired, and she inwardly yielded, though outwardly she refused, but his behaviour, her own Love, the present occasion, so fit opportunity, their heart's unity, and other sweet enticements, so far prevailed, that she yielded up her unspotted body, & pure chastity, to his possession, and the impression of his attempt, dissolved her Virgin zo●ne, giving full interests of her heart, Love, and body, to him, that pursued the possession of those riches, with earnestness: Sometimes blushing, sometimes shréeking, and yet yielding, denying, and yet granting, willing and unwilling: yet at last, she gave that she could not recall, and let him possess her spotless virginity, which being passed, her heart panted with the motion, and she felt her senses sad, a little repenting, yet not altogether sorry: sighing for sadness, and yet not sad at all: whilst he bathed himself in that haven of Bliss, passing the rest of that night in such unspeakable pleasure as cannot be deciphered. Early the next morning he arose▪ taking his farewell with a sweet Adieu, leaving Artesia sad for sorrow, and lamenting his absence, but yet with earnest and hearty prayers, invocating his happy success: bathing her heart in lukewarm t●●●es, thinking she had been too prodigal of her favours to him, and yet esteeming him worthy of a thousand times greater gift, if she had it in her possession, with repentance rejoicing, though deeming herself metamorphose, and other than she was w●nt to be, being glad she had no more company to converse withal; lest her guilt should make her blush, and so bewray her fault. And when Phoebus began to lighten the Chamber with his splendour, the hid herself within the bed, as if the daylight had accused her of that she had done in the dark. Ornatus being come to the Camp, found out Phylastes, and brought him to Artesia●s lodging, by the way instructing him how to order their business when Lenon should come. Where being entered, Phylastes having saluted Artesia, and a while conversed about their affairs, they changed their habits. Ornatus with many a sorrowful sigh taking his leave of her; whilst her heart bled warm ●rops of blood. Ornatus again took his leave of Artesia, and entered the Camp, framing himself to such kind of behaviour, that he was of all taken for Phylaste●. N●wes cam●●hat the Armenians were landed and had brought their Forces within a days march of T●aeons Camp, the King assembled all the chief Leaters together, to appoint every man his charge, and consult what to do. Ornatus in Phylastes stead, had under his charge four thousand men, whom by his own seeking he was appointed to convoye into a wood that stood fitly to offend the enemy, and the rest appointed to other places that seemed for most advantage. Ornatus having his soldiers alone, thought it time to execute what he intended, and therefore called unto him such as were Captains and chief under him, uttering these speeches Fellow soldiers, I would willingly utter my mind which is troubled in some sort with remembrance of the injuries. Allinus hath already causelessly endured, against whom now we address ourselves to fight: wherein in my mind we deal unjustly: for he was never traitor to his country, nor now cometh to disturb the land with oppression, but only to claim his own inheritance and liberty, which ourselves do permit: therefore I think it best before we draw our weapons, to consider against whom we draw them, and whom we offend, one that loveth us, his Country and people, and would not willingly shed a drop of our blood. Now if I could find a remedy for all this, which standeth with equity, would you follow my directions? With that they all at once said, they would be ruled by him Then he said, Thaeon that is now our King, destroyed all his family, and such as are in any degree near to him in blood, the last of whom is Allinus, whose utter ruin he now seeketh, not by justice▪ but that neither he nor any of his progeny should hinder his succession. Therefore if you will follow my counsel, when the army's ar● met let be not offer to offend the Armenians, but keep ourselves from fight, until Lenon affrighted therewith, and fearing the people's revolt, will peradventure yield to perform the articles the Armenian Ambassadors demanded: and by this means shall we restore All●n●s to his right, save the effusion of blood, and yet not wrong our reputation. The people hearing his speeches, generally gave their consent: crying, Phylastes, Phylastes. With that Ornat●s bestowed the gold among them that Lenon had before given him, which prevailed with the multitude exceedingly. Ornatu● having effected this according to his desire, went unto the A●m●nian Camp, desiring to speak with Allinus the General, to whom he declared what he intended in his behalf, not discovering him to be other than Phylastes. For which Allinus yielded him many har●y thanks. Whilst Ornatus was absent, a Captain named Ortonus, drawn by desire of reward, and above the rest favouring lenon's party, stole from the wood, and coming into the Camp to Lenon, bewrayed what Phylastes intended, and how that he was now gone to the Armenian Camp, to confer with Allinus.  
Lenon hearing that, thought it best, not to send for him by warrant, but amongst the rest, to assemble him to council: and to that effect, sent a Herald. Ornatus being returned had knowledge of the general assembly, and willingly went, little suspecting what Lenon intended, and being entered the Camp, & lenon's Tent, he was before all the Estates, by a Herald arrested of high treason. Ornatus then thought his intent was bewrayed, demanding what they could lay to his charge: Whereupon Ortonus before them all, declared what he had done, which he could not deny, upon which accusation, he was presently sent to the Court, and there imprisoned.   

CHAP. XV. How Ornatus was delivered out of prison & carried Artesia from the court. How Ornatus in a single combat, overcame Lenon, and caused thaeon's flight. And how Artesia to escape Thaeon, fled to adellena's house.  
TThe news of Ornatus imprisonment was soon blazed through the whole camp, court, and country, & at last came to Artesia hearing, who with exceeding lamentations bewailed his misfortune, but Phylastes coming unto her, comforted her all that he could, promising to set Ornatus at liberty (if quoth he) at Lenon's next coming, yo● will request his signet, to keep as his warrant for your safety. The next day the armies should meet, and therefore Lenon that night visited Artesia, finding her very sad, demanding the cause thereof: my Lord (quoth she how can I be otherwise then sad, when I am ready every hour to fall into more misery, not knowing whither your life may be endangered by these wars, and I thereby subject to some misfortune. Therefore in sign you love me, grant me your signet, to be my warrant and privilege, against all injury that may be offered me: with that she kissed him, which she had never be●ore done, not drawn by any good will, but with desire to help Ornatus. lenon's heart was so overcome, that he presently gave her the same, staying sometime with her, entreating her consent to his love. He was no sooner gone, but Phylastes taking the ring of Artesia, went unto the place where Ornatus was, and coming to the jailer, told him that he must deliver Ornatus to his custody, showing him the Prince's signet, as his warrant: the jailer seeing the same, and knowing that the Pilgrim was of great credit & trust with Lenon, made no doubt, but presently delivered Ornatus unto him: both departing together, to Artesia, who seeing her beloved so fortunately delivered shed tears of joy for his escape. After salutations in the kindest sort past, Ornatus declared what he intended, and how he was betrayed by Ortonus. Phylastes than counseled Ornatus, that night to convey Artesia from thence, unto some place of better security, who sometimes thought to carry her to adellena's house, but he thought Lenon would misdoubt that place, at last he concluded to convey her to her castle, where Arbastus her father dwelled, which was still kept to her use, by certain of her father's servants. Foth Artesia & Phylastes liked ●his well, and therefore leaving the court, they departed thitherwards, Artesia not wonted to travel, could scarcely endure to hold out, but by their help, they arrived there at midnight & knocking, awaked the por●er, who looking over the battlements, demanded who was below at that unreasonable time of the night: My friend quoth Ornatus, it is Artesia that cometh in time of her most need, for harbour in this place. The Porter viewing her well by the bright light of Scynthia, & knew her, calling up the rest of his fellows, came running down, and opened the gate, where he and the rest, received her in with great joy.  
Ornatus was glad of this happy escape, but yet exceeding sad that he could not assist his father against Lenon, but that he must perforce be absent from his rescue, which filled his heart with such care, that all that night he could take no rest, and though he enjoyed Artesias company without control, he could harbour no rest or quiet to his distempered thoughts: that Phylastes demanded the cause of his sadness. My assured friend Phylastes (quoth he) the remembrance of my father's estate, and fear of his mishap, maketh me thus sad, and griefs exceeding torment possesseth me, that I cannot be present to aid him against Lenon, that by towardly malice, not with valour, will seek his ruin before any others. O were I but present to defend him, though I offended none, my heart would be at quiet. Artesia hearing his speeches said; Good Ornatus do not again hazard yourself, as you lately did: for had not fortune and Phylastes wisdom, assisted v●, both your life, and with it mine, had been cast away. My dear● Artesia (quoth he) that misfortune hath taught me wisdom, and by remembering it, I will learn to eschew such mischiefs, and know whom I trust: therefore I beseech you, grant I may once again go to do my duty in aiding my father, which I will now do without danger, for that I will make none privy to that I intent, nor attempt more than I am able to perform. Artesia seeing how fully he was vent to go, preferred his will before her own desire, knowing her duty not to contradict, but to counsel him, and therefore said; My dear Ornatus, my duty bindeth me to consent, but my love willeth me to deny: fear of your mishap maketh me unwilling, but will to fulfil your desire, maketh me give ●n unwilling consent: only let me request this, that you will take Phylastes in your company and leave me to the custody of my servants, whose fidelity I am assured of: for having him with you, hi● aid● and counsel may much avail to preserve your life, which if you lose (as heavens forbid) with the same shall mine expire for if so impossible Artesia should breath, Orna●us being breathless. Ornatus with a few tears that by exceeding grief were wrong from his heart, participated her laments. First requesting the servants to be careful of her good, and then without delay, both furnishing himself and Phylastes, with rich armour and horse, of which there was great choice in that Castle: and for that the day began to appear, they thought it time to depart, lest their coming from thence might be discovered: There might one behold sorrow at parting in his right form, hart-breaking sighs, breathing sad Farewells, and sorrowful tears at so sad a parting, when their lips were parted, their hands still fast, their hands disjoind, than their voices oftentimes uttering, that woeful word, Farewell: and when they were past hearing, their eyes unwillingly leaving each others sight, he being without looking back, and she within looking after, so long as she could perceive the glimmering glance of his bright armour, and he being pass sight of her, with watery eyes beholding the place of her abode, thus parted they, as if they had parted never to meet. Drawing nigh the armies, they beheld them met and in hot skirmish, standing still a good space, to see to whether party it was likely the victory would incline: and in the end they beheld the Armenians begin to retreat, and Lenon with Thaeon his Father in the midst of the throng, making exceeding slaughter, and proud of their deemed conquest: which set Ornatus heart on fire, that he rushed amongst the thickest of his Country men, yet not once offering a blow, nor shedding a drop of the blood he loved, but only making way to come to Lenon, which made them not offer to stay his passage: but admiring what he was, let him go free; after whom Phylastes hasted. The Soldiers seeing those two new come Knights offend none, admired what they should be, not one of them all offering a blow, because they offered none. By this time Ornatus was come to the place where Lenon was, who even then & not before had met Allinus, betwixt whom many blows and some wounds were given and received, but Allinus had the worst by reason of his age. Ornatus knowing his Father by his armour, came betwixt them with his sword drawn, saying: Lenon stay thy hand: let age go free, and let thy youth cope with me, that am come to challenge thee before both the Armies: and therefore as thou art the King's Son, a knight and honourest arms, give order by thy Herald, to stay the fury of the Battles, till thou and I have tried our valours, otherwise this Knight and I have vowed to huht thee from place to place, and never give over, until we have spilled thy blood.  
Lenon, hearing this Champions proud challenge, said: If thou art a knight, a gentleman as I am, and canst show wherein I have wronged thee, I will answer thee, otherwise know, that I scorn thee, although I know myself of sufficient strength to abate thy haughty presumption, were it never so great. With that two heralds were sent from either General, to part the soldiers, which done, Ornatus before the open assembly said. Lenon, first I say I am a Gentleman, as absolute and as good as thyself: Prince I am none, neither art thou by right, but that by tyranny and usurpation thou holdest the same. I come as Artesias Champion, to challenge thee of disloyalty, as the outrages thou hast committed, by detaining her liberty, do manifest. I challenge thee for doing injustice against Allinus, whom thou withholdest from his right, by treacherous malice. I challenge thee, as a partaker of Arbastus death, for that thou sufferest and upholdest his murderer Floretus, that hath deserved death. I challenge thee for oppression laid upon this whole land. And lastly, for detaining Ornatus living, who never was impeached of treason: and therefore if thou darest answer my challenge, I am here ready, otherwise, I here pronounce thee for a coward, & a miscreant, not worthy to bear Arms. Lenon made this reply. Being accused by a stranger, without cause, I regard it not, and being judge myself, will not by thee be adjudged: but for thy proud challenge, I will answer thee, as little regarding what thou canst do, as thou boastingly dost vaunt of thy valour. Therefore even now before I deport, I will without delay abate thy haughtiness, though thy accusations are manifestly false: for I both love and esteem Artesia as dearly as I do myself: my title to the Crown, is just: for Allinus he is both a traitor at home, and abroad: first in causing his complices to seek my father's life: and lastly, for bringing these Armenian bands, to destroy the Country. For Floretus pardon, it is mercy, not injustice. As for oppression done to Ornatus, all know, I never injuried him: but if he take the justice that is done to his traitorous father, as done to him, I cannot help that: but revenge it thou, since thou art his Champion. Ornatus had much ado to stay to hear out his speech, which galled him to the very heart, that without speaking a word more, he smote at Lenon, and Lenon with courage, answered his blows, beginning a most flerce and forcible encounter, and with like fury continuing the same, till both had received many wounds, and their steeds began to be furious and mad, with the smart of some strokes that missed their aim.  
Ornatus calling to remembrance, first the injuries he had received, and that Lenon & none else could dispossess him of Artesias Love, and many other wrongs he had done him and his parents, thought now to revenge them all, and dispossess Thaeon of the Crown by lenon's death, revived his spirits with such courage, that he began with renewed strength to assail Lenon, who even then began to faint, & would have yielded, but that shame withheld him. Which when Ornatus perceived, he thought at once to end the strife, that with one forcible blow, he gave him so de●p a wound on the right arm, where the Armour was broken away, that be let fall his sword, and fell senseless on his horse neck. Thaeon perceiving his son in that danger, with his guard came rushing in, & rescued him from Ornatus sword, which otherwise had p●rted his head from his body. With this, both the Armies joined battle again: the Armenians with new courage rushing upon their enemies, whose hearts began to fail, seeing Lenon so near death, which made such a confusion among them, that they were readier to fly or yield to Allinus, them to fight it out: that on a sudden, the Armenians had slain an infinite number of them, & all the earth was died to a purple colour, with their blood. O●natus heart was vexed to see so much of his Countries' blood shed, that he entreated Phylastes to persuade the Soldiers to give over, and himself road betwixt the two Armies with a Herald, desiring them to stay their fury for a while. Long it was before they would give over, but at last by the Drums and Trumpet sound, having called back the Armenians, Ornatus placing himself in the midst of his Country men, that a multitude might hear him, said. Renowned people of Phrygia, hear my speech that am tormenmented to see so much of your blood shed, the effusion whereof, I seek by all means to stop, having as you see for the love I bear to you, not lifted my hand against any of you, but only Lenon: the causes that urge me to challenge him, is the manifest wrongs he and his father hath done to yourselves, this Country, and all the Nobility: for the true testimony whereof, let every one inwardly examime his own conscience, and they will not deny my words, but find themselves exceedingly grieved with his oppression. Do you not see what destruction he hath brought upon this land? Are not almost all the Nobility slain and destroyed? Are not your liberties, goods and friends, taken from you? Is not the whole land in an uproar, and every one driven from his quiet at home, to venture his life in the field, and all this for satisfaction of his will and self command, not grounded upon law nor justice? Examine your consciences, is he your lawful King? did he not murder your lawful King, only to make you his vassals? Again, doth Allinus seek to do his Country wrong? doth he come to oppress you? doth he seek to abuse your liberty? No: he only cometh to claim his possessions, by injustice taken from him: he cometh as urged by grief, not to live as a banished man, being himself, his wife, children and family, driven to live in misery and slavery, for the satisfaction of his Lust. Then I beseech you good soldiers, consider well what you do, whom you defend, a traitor: and whom you resist, a dear friend, that loveth and tendereth your lives as dear as his own: whose estate the Armenians pity, to whom he was never gracious: but his own Country men's hearts are hardened against him, repaying cruelty for his love, and resistance to withhold his right. I could allege so many reasons to dissuade you from following thaeon's will, as would ask a tedious recital, but I know you are o● wisdom to conceive the right: your hearts merciful to pity him, and your minds apt to do justice: then give him over, discharge your minds of care, and disburden yourselves of his oppression. I stand here as an Advocate to plead for Allinus right, that hath endured too much wrong. I stand here as A●tesias Champion, that is imprisoned by Lenon, abused by Lenon, and withheld from her liberty by Lenon. I stand here to entreat you save your own lives, to preserve your liberty to execute justice, and to do Allinus right. Then I beseech you, lay aside your arms taken in defence of wrong, and turn your hearts to pity innocency: whereby you shall save many of your lives, show yourselves men that are ruled by wisdom, and not by rage: and purchase liberty, freedom, and peace, for ever. Then you that bear the true hearts of Phrygians, follow me, and give over to follow that usurper, and stay such ruins and destructions as are like to ensue by your refusal: and let the rightful heir possess the Crown, who will love you, cherish you, and seek his countries peace. The people's hearts were so altered with his speeches, that many came running to him, crying, Allinus, Allinus: and the rest that were not yet resolved, stood in a doubt what to do. Whilst Duke Ternu: commanded his Forces to follow him, who withdrew himself from the Camp, espying so fit occasion, determined likewise not to follow Thaeon longer, whom he neither hated nor loved, but yet esteemed as unlawful usurper of that Kingdom: and rather desiring Allinus should possess his right of inheritance, than any way willingly contradicting the same: being as many others were, forced to come to those wars, fearing T●aeons displeasure, who cared not in what sort his will was performed. Ternus therefore drew himself apart with this policy, that if Thaeon prevailed, yet he could not impeach him: and if Allinus had the best, yet he could not allege that Ternus withstood him, thinking it the greatest point of wisdom to keep himself upright. Thaeon had no sooner conveyed his Son to his Tent, and with much ado recovered him to his senses, but there came a m●ssenger Posting from the Court, with news that Phylastes was two days since escaped out of prison. And presently after him, an other brought news that Artesia with the pilgrim, was fled, but no man could tell whither. Lenon hearing the news, became almost mad, and raged so extremely, that his wounds burst into fresh bleeding: and to fill up his heart with sorrow and vexation, an other messenger from the camp, came running in, crying, Fly Thaeon, fly, we are betrayed to the enemy, the levers captains and soldiers are revolted, and the enemy is near at hand to surprise thee: Fly and save thy life, for thine own subjects have left thee, and refused thy government. Thaeon was so amazed and terrified with fear, that without regard of lenon's life, he fled to save himself. Every one saving those that were fled with Thaeon, with haste running to their revolting fellows to save themselves. This news was brought to Allinus, who hearing the same, and being past fear of thaeon's rage, sent a Herault●e Turnus, to know whether he were his friend, or still continued those bands to resist him as his foe? who returned this answer, that he was never foe to him, but always wished his good. Afterwards dismissing his soldiers, and sending every one well rewarded to his own house, himself coming back to his Tent, where he met Allinus whom he kindly saluted. Thither were assembled the chief states of the land, to whom Allinus said. My Lords, since Thoeon & Lenon are fled, & none left but your honours in place of justice, with right and equality to minister the same to such as have sustained wrong: I as one that have abode the greatest loss, commit my cause to your wisdoms: you know what injuries I have endured by his malice, only for that I sought to set Artesia at liberty, that was by Lenon imprisoned, and badly used: requesting nothing of you, but that which by right is mine, and belongeth to me by inheritance. The nobles with a general assent, granted that he should enjoy his former possessions: and that his loss should be repaid out of the King's treasure.  
O●natus standing by, said: Most noble peers, you stand here debating masters, whilst the cause of your woe is living, and far enough from yielding to that you grant, who now peradventure is mustering new forces, to make frustrate what you intent, and to work revenge. Which to prevent, give me your consents to pursue him, and he being once taken, then may you without control, either establish him, or choose a new, that should by right be your king.  
To this all the nobles gave consent, and Ornatus with three thousand horsemen, followed Thaeon, who first look the green Fortress, with five hundred men, who continued firm, won by great rewards, but hearing of the Armenians approach, under the conduct of the stranger, that i●ue Lenon, in the night he fled with a hundredth of his nearest friends and allies, to Arbastus castle, where he thought to live secure and unknown, for that he thought his enemies would least of all suspect that place. He arrived there in the dead time of the night: but knocking, was denied entrance, which made him almost desperate, that he assayed to enter by force, and prevailed so, that he got in with the rest of his company, making fast the Gates again after them.  
artesia's servants knowing what he was, some ran one way, some another, to hide themselves from him. One amongst the rest, came running into artesia's chamber, declaring to her what had befallen, & how that the king had taken the castle. Artesia having not yet heard of lenon's death: nor what success Ornatus had in the camp, wring her hands made this lamentation. Twice hath my dear Ornatus left me in this danger, and hazarded his own life, hoping to attain good success, but cruel fortune hath still cross his laudable attempts, & le●● both him and my poor self, in extreme misery. Now am & assured he is taken prisoner again, and myself am like not long to go free, for I am sure the king hath heard of my being here, which maketh him come thus late. Well, might I but be made prisoner in the same place my Ornatus lieth enthralled, that I might yet enjoy his sight, than should I think myself happy in misery, but I fear me too much, they will pri●●tie murder him, and never let me know thereof, whereby I shall be held with long frustrated hope to see him, and in the end be deceived. Never was poor maiden brought to such misery, nor I think true love never crossed with such pitter adversities, which both he for me, and I for him, have been continually subject unto ever since our first acquaintance. As she was still continuing her laments, the same servant whose name was Thristus, came running in again, saying Dear mistress, I have found a means for your escape from hence unespied, if you will attempt the same▪ which is without any danger at all. Never tell me what it is (quoth she) but be thou my guide and I will follow thee: for I will attempt any thing to escape from him. Then (quoth he) fear nothing, but follow me. Then took he her by the hand, leading her out of that room into a dark entry, where by reason of the night, there appeared not the least glimpse of light, and through that into many back rooms and unfrequented places of the Castle, until he came to a postern gate which he opened, and after he was out, shut the same fast again, saying. Now mistress you are out of the Castle, and past fear of the King, who little knoweth you can pass out this way, therefore I pray tell me whither I shall conduct you? I thank thee good Thristus quoth she, for this thy good assistance, for which I will one day be thankful unto thee, and now I pray thee direct me to adellena's house, who is my faithful friend, and will rather die then discover me. This said, they began their journey, which was but three miles, and therefore they soon overcame the same, even by the morning light arriving at the wished place. Adellena hearing some knock at the gate, commanded her maid to rise, to see who it was, the Damsel coming down, before she would open the gate asked who was there? Artesia knowing her voice, said; It is Artesia, good Anna let me in. With that the Damsel opened the gate, conducting her to her mistress Chamber, who espying her, was so surprised with joy, that she embracing her, shed abundance of tears, saying: Welcome my dear Artesia, I was afraid I should never have seen you again, you have been so long time absent. Indeed (quoth she) I have been long absent from thee, though still not far some thee: but I have news of importance to tell thee, which I will forbear to speak of until I have refreshed myself, for care and travel hath made me exceedingly weary. Then Adellena brought her into a sweet and pleasant Chamber, where she laid her down to rest.   

CHAP. XVI. ¶ How Ornatus surprised Thaeon in Arbastus Castle, who was slain by one of his Servants.  
ORnatus hearing the King had taken the green Fortress, beset the same round with horsemen, who took certain of the King's followers, that being brought before him, told him the King was fled with some hundred in his company to Arbastus Castle, which when he heard, without delay he road thither, fearing least Thaeon getting in and finding A●tesia, would offer her some injury: he was no sooner come, but he sound it so: for he was denied entrance, nor could see one of artesia's servants, whom he left as keepers of the same, which so much disquieted his heart, that he could not tell what to do: thinking it best to entreat Thaeon kindly, lest he should seek revenge against Artesia, though she were innocent, and no way to be blamed for any thing: and such a multitude of contrarious fears arose in his fancy, that he seemed therewith metamorphosed. Which Phylastes soon perceived, and coming to him said; How now Ornatus what hath fear taken away your courage? O my friend Phylastes (quoth he) Thaeon is within, and thereby possessed of Artesia, whose mind is so far from the least thought of virtue, that no doubt he will seek revenge on her.  
Fear not that (quoth he,) but summon him to the walls by the sound of a Trumpet, and will him to yield himself, and stand to the courtesy of his Nobles, and promise him with safety to conduct him thither. Ornatus allowed his counsel, and therefore commanded a Trumpet to sound a Parley, and thereupon one from the King appeared on the walls, demanding what he would have. To whom Ornatus said: Tell Thaeon the King, that we come to him from the Peers of the Realm. The messenger told the King what he said. Whereupon Thaeon came in sight, demanding what he would have.  
Quoth he, I would have you yield, least by resistance, you procure a greater mischief to yourself, then is by us pretended. Suppose I should yield (quoth he) how would you use me? Like a King (quoth Ornatus) honourably. I have found (said he,) so small cause to trust you, that it were fondness to put my life within compass of your mercy: therefore I will keep myself where I am, not doubting ere many days, to have so many friends, as shall both chase thee, and the Armenians from the walls, and so out of this Country: which he spoke upon the confidence he had in certain friends, that had promised to gather new forces, but meant never to perform the same.  
Ornatus was much troubles in his mind, to think what was become of Artesia, marveling that he spoke not of her, nor could hear of any of her servants, that he might give him knowledge how she fared. But seeing his fair words would not prevail, said. Thaeon, since thou refusest the courteous proffer I make thee, know, that my intent is altered, and since thou wilt not by fair means yield, I will enforce thee to submit thyself to my mercy, or abide my rigour: for not all the friends thou canst find shall shelter thee from my revenge: for I have sworn thy death, and nothing but that shall satisfy me. Which vow I will once again revoke, if thou will yield without enforcement, and deliver me Artesia, in safe●ie, that is within that Castle. Artesia, (quoth Thaeon,) had I her in my custody, I would be revenged on her, because thou wishest her safety, but she is far enough from me, therefore thou seekest her in vain at my hands, who would as readily deliver her unto thee, as thou couldst ache, for that I esteem her n●t. But as for myself, it shall never be said, my mind would floupe to base submission, nor that a King yielded to a slave and base vassal as thou art. Dost thou think that a Royal mind can put on so degenerate a habit? no I tell thee, whatsoever thou art, I had rather by enforcement die, then by submission live: but be thou advised what thou dost, nor stay long before these walls, for there are so many whetting their sword, and putting on Armour in my defence, as ere the morning's Sun arise, will fear thee from hence. Ornatus heart could not endure these braved, and being withal vexed for fear that Artesia should sustain some injury, thought speedily to work revenge. Which by Phylastes counsel, he remitted until it were night, that then unawares they might by some means get entrance into the Castle, and so surprise them.  
Ornatus thinking to walk alone by himself, to breath forth in sighs some part of the fear that possessed his heart, and withal, determining to view the Castle, how he might with conveniency get into the same without destroying it, for that it belonged to his dearest beloved, he espied the Postern gate, whereat thrusting, it presently flew open, which way as yet, neither Thaeon nor any of his company had found. Ornatus heart was glad he had found so good a means to accomplish his will, putting the same too again, came to Phylastes and told him thereof. Then both of them presently agreed to enter that way and surprise them: conveying a hundredth of the best Soldiers secretly under the wall of that Postern, and placing all the rest in the open view of the Castle, as if none of them had been wanting.  
Ornatus and Phylastes entered, and after them she rest followed, who passing along through the waste rooms, at last came to the place where they had left Artesia, but found her not, and such success had they in their attempt, that Ornatus coming behind Thaeon, smote him with his hand on the back, before he had any knowledge of his approach. Thaeon therewith starting, and looking back, was amazed, but running forward, drew out his sword, crying; My Friends save and defend yourselves: wherewith those that were about him drew their sword: To whom Ornatus said in this manner.  
How now usurping King? where are those mighty Forces should chase me hence? will you yet yield, or stand to the trial by fight? I yield (quoth Thaeon,) but much against my will, for had friends dealt faithfully, I had not been left in this misery. But since fortune so much favoureth thee, as to make me thy prisoner, use me well for that I am a King, and to none but thyself am in thrall. Tell me (quoth Ornatus) what is become of Artesia, that not many days since I left in this place? I saw her not (quoth Thaeon) nor know I where she is, only I found certain servants in this place, whom I have put to death, lest they should bewray my being here. Tyrant quoth Ornatus, thinkest thou their death shall go unrevenged, couldst thou be so cruel as to murder those that were innocent? with whom I fear me, thou hast made away Artesia. Why what art thou (quoth Thaeon?) that usest such undecense words to a King? that art thyself not worthy to speak to a King? and why makest thou such enquyrie after Artesia, that for aught I know hast no interest in her? suppose I have slain her, that was the cause of all this woe, what canst thou challenge at my hands for her? it had been good she had never been borne●, for she only hath caused the original of these troubles. Art thou a King quoth Ornatus, and bearest so unkingly a mind, as to slander true virtue? No, thou art a villain, a murderer, a Traitor to this Land, an usurper of the Crown, and a most wicked and cruel homicide: but for that thou wouldst know what I am, know that I have more interest to the Crown than thou hast, my name Ornatus, and thy enemy, to whom by right that Crown belongeth: which thou shalt no longer enjoy. Therefore said he, such as are my friends lay holds out his Traitor. He had no sooner spoken those words, but Thaeon's own Servants were the first that apprehended him, being weary of his government: and one amongst the rest, thinking that he had commanded them to slay him, and withal, hoping for some reward for that forward exploit, having his sword ready drawn, suddenly (whilst Ornatus did but turn back to confer with Phylastes) thr●st the same through thaeon's body, that giving a piteous groan, he gave up the ghost. Ornatus turning back, demanded who had done that deed, with that the murderer drew back, fearing to come before him, until he was compelled, To whom Ornatus said; What art thou that hast done this deed, art thou not one of his servants, hast not thou been maintained by him, did he not trust thee with his life, was he not thy king, then how dared thou presume to strike thy master, be ingrateful to him that gave thee gifts, prove false to him that trusted thee, and stay thine anointed king? My Lord (quoth he) I did mistake your words, and hope to preserve my own life, made me to do that deed, which I thought would have pleased yau. I am not (quoth he) sorry he is dead, but for that thou flewest him, who thou in all du●ie oughtest to have defended: for which thou shalt die a miserable death. Then he commanded that he should be drawn in pieces with horses, which before he departed thence, was performed.   

CHAP. XVII. How Ornatus was choose King. How he departed unknown in search of Artesia. How Lenon sought again to betray him, & was disappointed. How he was banished. Tyresus pardoned. And Orntius and Artesia royally married.  
THe King dead, Ornatus with Phylastes, returned to the Court, where all the Peers were assembled, who before his coming, had by a voluntary messenger, understood the manner of thaeon's death, the care whereof was already past, for that few or none at all loved him: but now their care was whom to choose as their King, but first they welcomed Ornatus, none of them all knowing him, nor once suspecting what he was, who now could find no further occasion to conceal himself, but humbling himself before Allinus, ●e said. My renowned Lord, the cause I have so long cencealed my sel●, hath been fear of the king's cruelty, and lenon's envy, who both would have endangered me, but now being void of that misdoubt, your poor son Ornatus, submitteth himself, humbly craving pardon for my neglect of duty. With that he unarmed his head, and his father knowing him, in most loving wife embraced him, shedding tears for joy of his safety, whom he thought had been long since dead. Duke ●ernus and the rest, rejoiced to see him, and with embracings expressed their joy, entering into admiration of his honoured parts and noble chivalry. Plylastes being likewise known, was much commended, whom they deemed had been murdered in the prison by Lenon, for that he could not be found. Allinus beholding Ornatus, and with what valour he had bahaved himself, rejoiced exceedingly, the Commons clapped their hands for joy, and the Peers amongst themselves began to relate how virtuously, valiantly, and prudently, he had behaved himself in all that he had undertaken. After many welcomes past, Ternus craving audience stood up, uttering these speeches: My Lords, we need not now defer giving of Allinus his right, because there is none to contradict what we establish: beside, we being all now assembled together, & our late usurping king dead, there can be no fitter time to choose a new king, and such a one as by right of blood, and by our general consents may rule us. Thaeon you know was no way interessed in the Crown but by usurpation, and hath rooted out almost all that he knew to have any title or interest in our late king's blood: of which house Allinus issue is the last, by marriage of the Lady Aura, niece unto our late king, therefore the right being in him, if there be any man in this assembly that can contradict that which I have said, let him speak. Which when he had said, he again sat down. Upon his speeches the Nobles conferred, the people consulted, and at last the common soldiers cried out, Let Ornatus be our king, Ornatus is our king. The nobles likewise gave consent to that the multitude liked, and Ornatus was chosen king, whom they would have crowned: but at his desire they defered the day of his Coronation for a month. In the mean time, esteeming him as their king, and that day with great royalty setting him in possession thereof, all business for that day being ended, the Armenians richly rewarded, feasted, and with joy ready to return. Allinus in quiet but for the want of his Lady, and all things in good order, Ornatus being alone by himself endured much disquiet for Artesia, marveling what was become of her, sometimes thinking she was slain by Thaeon, and then supposing she was escaped out at the postern gate which he found open, that in these contrarieties of doubts he continued, sometimes despairing, and then again feeding himself with hope. After Artesia had rested herself, and received some part of her sleep she had lost that night, though but with broken st●mbers, she began to declare to Adellena what miseries she had endured, and troubles she had past since she was by Lenon carried from her house, how she met with Ornatus again, and every thing that was befallen, with the cause of her flight at that instant. But Adellena said she, I fear me I shall never see him again, for had he not been taken, and his father overthrown, Thaeon could not have had so much leisure as to come to surprise me there, but the heavens granted me a fortunate escape. And if I could be so happy as to hear that Ornatus were in safety, though he had not that success his desires did aim at, my heart would be at some rest, which is now pinched with suspicious torment. His adventurous valiant heart could not be withdrawn by any persuasion to leave to aid his father, but notwithstanding infinite perils hung over his head, yet to show the duty of a loving son, and the mind of a virtuous v●liant gentleman, he would not desist to hazard his person: which now I fear me is fallen into the hands of his enemies. But yet Phylastes I hope will by his good & friendly counsel be a means to keep him from danger. Many other speeches Artesia used: and Adellena used as many on the contrary part, to persuade her that Ornatus was in safety, the truth whereof she told her, she should soon know: for (quoth she) I have sent one of my servants to learn the truth of all that is happened, who I know will shortly return. Which fell out even as she had told, for the servant returned, bringing news of lenon's death, acted by a strange knight, and how that Thaeon was fled, and being likewise by the strange knight surprised in A●bastus Castle, was slain by one of his own servants.  
Which Knight, was now known to be Ornatus, and was elected King by the Peers, but he had deferred his day of Coronation, by reason of some special grief that troubled him. artesia's heart was revived with these news, knowing the grief Ornatus endured was for her absence, that presently she determined to send him word of her safety: and wrote a Letter, the contents whereof were these.  
MY dear Ornatus, no news could have come more welcome to me then your safety, and nothing more unwelcome, then to hear of your heaviness, which I would entreat you to cease, for that I am in safety at adellena's house, being by one of my servants the same night the King took my Castle, at a postern gate in safety brought hither, where I trust ere long to see you: which will replenish my soul with exceeding comfort, for on your safety, my life and felicity dependeth.  
Yours for ever, Artesia.  
Having wrote this Letter, she gave it to Thristus, willing him to deliver the same to Ornatus with all speed.  
Destinies do allot many to exceeding misfortunes, and some men are of that dishonourable and unmanly dispositions, that they account all means to attain their desires lawful, not regarding the shame and peril will ensue thereon. O● which nature was Lenon, who being conveyed from the Camp by his friend's, soon recovered, and kept in a secret place, lest he might be known, having no other means but by absenting himself to save his life: whose supposed death, caused thaeon's flight to the green Fortress, from whence likewise he was departed before Lenon could come to give him knowledge of his safety, and knowing that it was then too late to salve those miseries, he 〈◊〉 concealed himself, following Ornatus (though unknown to him) with intent to murder him, if he could by any means take him at advantage. But he was still disappointed, and withal saw the death of his father done by his own servant, still intermingling himself amongst the soldiers, that he was taken to be one of them, & never suspected. But Ornatus being returned to the Court, Lenon was then compelled to leave to follow him, and harboured sometimes in one place, and sometimes in an other, having knowledge of Artesias absence, he could not tell whether she were alive or dead▪ but dead he thought she could not be, but rather by some means escaped. And even when Thristus was newly come out of adellena's house, Lenon espied him, & knowing him to be one of Artesias servants, be suspected his Mistress was there, to whom he came, saying: My friend well met, I take you to be one of Artesias servants, unless I be deceived: which if you will resolve me of, I will do a message to you, that I am willed to deliver to her from her dearest friend Ornatus. Indeed (quoth Thristus) I serve Artesia, and am now going to Ornatus with a letter from Artesia, who is in safety in adellena's house. Lenon hearing his speech, being before determined what to do, drew out his dagger and suddenly stabbed him, casting his body into a pit, and taking the letter from him, broke off the seal and red the contents, which when he had done, he began to study which way to revenge himself on Ornatus, and afterwards to get Artesia into his possession, and for that he thought delay might hinder his intent, he first wrote a letter in artesia's name, the contents were these.  
ORnatus my dearest friend, the news of your happy victory, & conquest of your enemies, is come to my knowledge, than which nothing could have been more welcome unto me. Likewise I hear, that much heaviness possesseth you for my absence, that am in safety: and desire you to meet me to morrow night, and you shall find me with Adellena, at the lodge in the Park near unto my Castle: in the mean time, remitting all further report of my escape, & manifestation of my Love, until the happy time I may meet you.  
Yours in all Love, Artesia.  
When he had written this letter, and imitated therein Artesias own hand so near, that it could hardly be discerned, he went to the Court, & behaveed the matter so cunningly, that he was no way suspected, but was admitted into Phylastes presence, to whom he delivered the letter. For Ornatus himself being exceedingly troubled in his mind, had left the Court, with some three in his company, to go in search of Artesia, & left Phylastes in his chamber, and in his stead, to answer such as should come with any suits to him. Phylastes being taken of all, but of some certain that attended him, received the letter, promising to meet Artesia there, at the same time appointed, giving the messenger a reward. Lenon being d●parted, went to a place where he found a certain kinsman of his named Lucerius, to whom he declared both what he was, and what means he had wrought for his revenge on Ornatus, who without respect joined hands with him, and promised with many oaths to explore his life in pursuit of revenge, who with Lenon included before Ornatus coming, to be in the lodge with a sufficient company to surprise him, & work the premeditated revenge. Lenon being assured of his aid, next determined to take Artesia from adellena's house, and to bring her to Lucertus' Castle, until the time appointed staying with Lucertus, to see him depart with his ambush to the lodge, which he saw effectually performed. Phylastes presently upon the receipt of that letter, sent out a messenger to seek Ornatus, & to certify him, that Artesia would meet him at the lodge with Adellena that evening, & that he should find Phylastes there: who (being by artesia's messenger taken for himself) had appointed to be there, lest he should not conveniently be found. The messenger with great haste departed, & enquiring after four Pilgrims (for in that habit Ornatus & such as were with him went) by that time the day drew near to an end, the messenger found out Ornatus, to whom he declared what Phylastes had given him in charge, only mistaking the place, for whereas he should by his direction have said at t●● lo●●e, mistaking Phylastes words, he said at Adellena house. Ornatus hearing that heavenly tidings, leapt for joy, presently hasting towards adellena's house, which was not far off. Lenon to further his attempt (which he thought he could not with violence execute: for he thought if he should carry her away perforce in the day time, he should be prevented) devised an answer of the letter, that he had taken from Thristus, which he determined to deliver to Artesia, as from Ornatus, the consents whereof were these.  
MY most dear and beloved Artesia, I have received the letter you sent me by your servant, whom I have employed about a matter of great importance, that none could so fitly execute as himself, which news was most welcome to the comfort of my heart, that was almost overcome with despair of your safety, whereon my chiefest felicity dependeth. Therefore omitting further recital of my joy for your safety, which this paper cannot express, therefore I will meet you soon, where this my servant will bring you, whose fidelity I assure you to be such, as that he will do nothing but what I have given him in charge: until which time of meeting, I cease all further circumstance of speeches.  
Yours, Ornatus.  
With this letter Lenon went to adellena's house, & knocking at the gate, was brought to her, to whom he delivered the same, who reading the contents, & being before not well acquainted with Ornatus hand, nothing at all suspected the contrary, but both believed that it came from him, and determined to go with the messenger to meet him: whilst she was preparing to go with Lenon, adellana's maid came in, telling her, that there was another to speak with her from Ornatus: with that Lenon changed countenance, and Artesia willed her to bring him in. Ornatus beholding her, had thought to have embraced her, & discovered himself, but seeing a stranger there, and a letter in her hand, he stood in a study. Artesia noting well his countenance, thought it was Ornatus himself, but standing in a doubt thereof, said, I have received this letter from Ornatus already, and therefore if you have any further message from him tell it me, for any news from him shall be most welcome. Ornatus thought that it was sent by Phylastes, but not knowing the messenger, marveled thereat, saying: I cannot believe that it came from him, for while within this hour, he had not knowledge of your being here. With that Artesia gave him the letter, willing him to read the same. Ornatus soon knew that it was invented by some treachery, and therefore said: I know this came not from Ornatus, for this is not his hand, nor he that brought it any of his Servants, for himself sent me before, appointing to be here within this hour.  
Lenon hearing his speeches, wished himself a thousand miles off, fearing to be discovered, for that he could not t●ll how to excuse himself, nor by any colour avoid that danger. To whom Ornatus said: My friend, when did he deliver thee this letter? Yesterday (quoth he.) Thou liest said Ornatus, for he hath not been at the Court these three days. Lenon thinking with impudency to out●●ce, having no other means left, that was likely to help him, and therefore said: This letter came from Ornatus, and thou liest in saying the contrary, being some villain that art set to betray this Lady, therefore (quoth he) speaking to Artesia, believe him not for he is come with some evil intent. With that Ornatus bade those that were with him lay hands on him, who presently apprehended him, and pulling of his hat, & a subtle disguise that he wore, knew him to be Lenon, at the first being half afraid ●o touch him, for that they would have sworn he had been dead. Ornatus seeing Artesia in an exceeding flight, discovered himself, and with great joy embraced her, desiring her to fear nothing, Artesia knowing him, soon forgot her fear, embracing him with exceeding joy. To whom he said: Fear him not my dear Artesia, for be it himself or his ghost, I care not, it shall go hard, if he now escape my hands. To whom he said:  
Most discourteous and cowardly Villain, couldst thou not be contented, to live in quiet, having once escaped my Fury, but that thou must by further complo●s seek to betray this Lady, that never did injury thee? How often hast thou interrupted her quiet, and from quietness brought her into misery? and knowing that she could not like thee, yet thou wert so impudent, as never to give over thy suit: but to attain thy desire, first deprivedst her of liberty, banishedst me in the disguise of Sylvian, and soughtest to betray my Father's life: & not satisfied with all these, like a cowardly miscreant, seekest by villainy to betray her: and notwithstanding thou haste be held thy father's woeful downfall and meritorious punishment, thou seekest to betray this Lady's life, by some unknown treachery not yet revealed. For all which, thou shalt suffer such punishment as I have devised, and have power to execute. Lenon seeing himself discovered, gr●w desperate, and scorning to be so rebuked at his hands, whom he still esteemed his inferior, but especially vexed, that it was he that had so long hindered his Love to Artesia, said: Ornatus, I think thou hast either forgotten thyself, or else what I am, that at thy pleasure rebukest me in such uncivil and ill beseeming terms. Am I not thy better, and one that not long since, might have commanded thee, and is thy mind so much elevated & proud, that thou wilt not acknowledge it? Thou makest brags of thy victory, when thou mayst rather with shame keep silence, & with remorse, repent that thou hast sought the death of thy lawful king, being thyself a traitor. As he would have spoke more, Ornatus interrupted him, saying: Hold thy peace, & do not stir my mind to more sharp revenge by thy reply, for I scorn to hear thee speak, therefore give over, lest I punish that tongue of thine for uttering such high words in defence of vice.  
Since (quoth Lenon) thou wilt not hear me speak in defence of myself, let me be conveyed from thy presence, for thy sight is as odious unto me, as mine to thee. Whilst they continued in adellena's house, a messenger came running in breathless, uttering these speeches: Behold most worthy Ornatus, I bring a message of much woe and heavy import: yesterday there was a messenger came to the court, that brought a letter in artesia's name to Phylastes, as supposing him to be yourself, wherein she requested you to meet her this night at the Lodge in her Park. Phylastes, who presently sent out a messenger to give you knowledge thereof, not hearing of his return, went himself with some twenty in his company, to the place appointed, and entering, he found not Artesia there, but a crew of Rebels, amongst whom Lucertus was chief, who all at once set upon him and his followers, taking him for yourself, having so many above the small number that were with Phylastes, that they had soon slain most of them that were with him, and himself not able to withstand such a multitude, had received many grievous wounds, & had been surely slain, but that the heavens sent them this aid: It fortuned that day, that Duke Ternus was going from the Court to his own house, who by great fortune hearing ●he noise, with his men hasted thitherwards, & having knowledge of what was done, most valiantly both himself & his men set upon Lucertus, whom they soon vanquished, having first slain many of his complices, and him hath he carried prisoner, with the rest of such as were alive unto the Court, & with them Phylastes in great danger of death. Ornatus heart was exceedingly vexed to hear of his dear friend Phylastes hurt, but especially, to think that he had not before attached Lucertus, which he was once in mind to have done, which would have prevented all these mischiefs. The night now being come, Ornatus caused Lenon to be bound hand and foot, and put into a strong place of the house, with some to to watch him, lest he should do himself violence: himself with Artesia spending that evening in many speeches, relating the manner o● all these misfortunes, but especially comforting themselves in each others love, with Adellena, calling to remembrance the whole manner of their troubles only procured by Lenon, which sad relations made the renewing of their Love more pleasant and defectable. Early the next morning, Ornatus putting himself in his Palmer's weeds, and covering artesia's face with a vale, & carrying Lenon with them bound, departed towards the Court. The next morning the peers of the Land being still there, assembled themselves, amongst whom was Allinus, that likewise had found his Lady, who hearing of his happy success against Thaeon, was that morning newly arrived at the Court, and by him entertained with exceeding joy.  
By that time they were assembled, & had called Lucertus before them, Ornatus with his company, were likewise come, though unknown and standing by, heard Lucertus confess that Lenon had instigated him to work that revenge against Ornatus, himself being likewise gone to betray Artesia. The whole assembly marveled when they heard him say that Lenon persuaded him to it, that Allinus stood up, saying: Is not he dead, then how can this be? Lenon (quoth Lucertus is not dead) with that Ornatus stopping in thrusting Lenon before him, said: Here is the man that hath procured him to all this mischief. The Nobles beholding him, were amazed at his sight, but being assured it was he, by the perfect knowledge they had of him, Ternus said: Lenon, I had always thought thou hadst borne the mind of a Gentleman, but now I find the contrary in thee, and that in the most shamefulst degree. What fury led thee to such mischievous attempts, to hire Lucertus to slay Ornatus, which he hath almost performed? and thyself to seek the death or misery of that virtuous Lady, that hath already endured too much wrong by thy folly? Allinus had not as yet heard of Ornatus hurt, nor any knew the contrary but that Phylastes was he, for he according to the mind of a most virtuous and constant friend, still concealed himself. Nor the Lady Aura had yet seen her son, whom she had but heard of, that Allinus said: Is my son Ornatus almost slain? O traitorous villain▪ with that Aura likewise began to make exceeding lamentation: which Ornatus was not able to behold, and therefore pulling off his disguised habit humbly reverenced himself before them upon his knee both his Parents knew him, and with exceeding joy embraced him shedding abundance of tears for his safety. With that, Duke Ternus and all the rest came to him, using him with such behaviour as belonged to him they had chosen King, seating him in an Imperial chair. He being set thus, said: My Noble Lords, I thank you for intituling me with this exceeding honour: therefore my desire is, since you have elected me of your free and bounteous hearts so be your King, let me this day and instantly, be installed with possession of the diadem, for that I have now no further cause of care to cause me defer the same: & likewise, that I may give judgement against these most wicked conspirators. The Nobles with joyful hearts gave consent, and immediately crowned him, with bended knees doing him reverence: which done, Ornatus rising from his imperial seat, came to Artesia, taking her by the hand, and leading her up the throne, seated her in the chair, placing the Crown upon her head, saying: My Lords, I pray likewise be contented with that I do, & as you have elected me king make this your Queen: them pulled he off the vale from Artesias face, and her clear beauty appeared to the admiration of all, who beholding, in humble sort did her reverence, making exceeding shouts for joy, their hearts being all exceedingly glad of her safety.  
When this was done, she came down and embraced them, yielding them many thanks, who all showed such exceeding kindness, as expressed their hearty goodwill, and rejoiced both her & Ornatus to behold: especially Aura and Turnu● duchess, with many embracings which they thought they could not sufficiently express, rejoiced to see her in that safety. By that time Ornatus was again seated & Artesia by him, Phylast●s hearing of Ornatus return being though grievously wounded, yet in no great danger of death, as well as he could came into the presence, where beholding Ornatus and Artesia crowned, kneeled down before them, his heart conceiving exceeding joy, to behold that heavenly sight. Whom O●natus kindly embraced, rejoicing to see him in that good estate: after artesia's salutation, willing him to sit down amongst them. Then Ornatus first commanding Floretus to be sent for out of prison, thus said: Now there resteth nothing but to give sentence against these, that by conspiracies have been murderers, which fact is so heinous, that it maketh them both odious to God and man, in which offence, both thou Lenon, Lucertus, & Tyrefus are guilty: therefore Lenon (quoth he) first declare what moved thee from time to time, to commit so many and greedous acts us thou hast done. lenon's heart was dead with vexation to see him crowned, and Artesia chosen his Queen, that hanging down his head, he would not speak: but Lucertus humbling himself upon his knee, asked pardon. By this time Floretus was brought in, looking with such a meager and pale countenance, by reason of his long imprisoment, that Artesia wept to behold him, and could not choose but run and embrace him, upon her knee entreating Orn●tus to pardon the offence he had committed, which was against none but herself. Ornatus seeing her kneel, suddenly caught her up, embracing Floretus, & commanding his hands to be unloosed, withal saying: I not only with a willing heart pardon you, but also give unto you forever, all those possessions that belonged unto your brother Arbastus. Floretus before expecting nothing but death, which was turned to such exceeding joy, humbly upon his knee yielded many thanks.  
Then Ornatus●easing ●easing himself again, said: Because this day is the first of our reign, which should begin with mercy, and not with rigour, there shall not a drop of blood by our command be spill: and therefore Lenon, though thou hast deserved no favour, but a most miserable death, we pardon thee. And Lucertus, commanding thee upon pain of death, within ten days to depart this land, for the we banish thee hence for ever: which doom is too merciful for thy fact. For thee Lenon, we only banish thee this Court, where on pain of death set not thy foot, lest they life ransom thy presomption. This said, taking Artesia by the hand, he was by the Peers with a noise of trumpets and exceeding joy, conducted to a Chapel, and in royal sort that day married to Artesia, and from thence to an Imperial feast, spending all that day in great pleasure, and at night taking lawful delight in her love, both then and during the time of both their lives, living in most pleasant loving, and virtuous sort, that most places of the world were filled with the report of their virtuous life, and peaceable government.   
FINIS.