THE ANCIENT, True, and Admirable History Of Patient GRISEL, A Poor Man's Daughter in France: Showing, How Maids, by her example, in their good behaviour may marry rich HUSBANDS; AND Likewise, Wives by their patience and obedience may gain much Glory. Written first in French. AND 
Therefore to French I speak and give direction.  
For, English Dames will live in no subjection.  But, now Translated into English. AND 
Therefore say not so. For, English maids and wives  
Surpass the French, in goodness of their lives.   
AT LONDON, Printed by H. L. for William Lugger; and are to be sold at his shop in Bedlam, near Moorfields. 1610.   

THE History of patiented GRISEL, made marchioness of Saluss. In which is exemplified the true obedience, and noble behaviour of virtuous women towards their Husbands.  

CHAP. I. How the marquess of Saluss passed the time of his youth without any desire of marriage, till he was requested by the fair entreaty of a favourite, and other Gentlemen, to affect a wife; both for the good of the Country, and the honour of himself: with his answer to the same.  
Between the Mountains of Italy and France, towards the South, lies the territory of Salus, a Country flourishing with excellent Towns and Castles, and peopled with the best sort of Gentles and Peasants: amongst whom there lived not long since a Nobleman, of great hope and expectation, Lord of the Cnuntry, by name, Gualther, marquess of Saluss: to whom, as the government a pertained by right of inheritance; so their obedience attended, by desert of his worthiness. He was young in years, noble of lineage, and such attractive demeanour, that the best thought it a pleasure to be commanded by him, and the worst grew more tractable by his good example: his delight was in hunting and hawking, and the pleasure of the time present extinguished the care of the time to come; for he thought not of marriage, nor to entangle himself with the inconveniences of a wife, till at last the people and Noblemen of his Country projected the contrary, as discontented to see him indisposed that way, and presaging a kind of prosperity to themselves, if by his marriage posterity might arise to assure them the better, how they might bestow their obedience hereafter. Whereupon, they assembled together, and made one day amongst the rest a determiner of their resolutions, choosing out for their speaker a Noble Knight, of great authority, fair demeanour, eloquent speech, and more inward with the marquess than any of the rest: who, thus acquainted with all their minds, and prepared to utter his own mind, took an opportunity to acquaint the renowned marquess with the matter.  
Most Honourable Sir, the great humanity extended toward us, & of which I most especially have participated, hath thus emboldened me above others, to make a further trial of your patience, and forbearing my rudeness; not that there is any sufficiency or singularity in me above others: but in that heretofore I have found you so generous toward all, I make no question to find you as gracious toward myself; and in that it hath pleased you to accept of our love, we are proud again to be under your obedience: wherein we shall rejoice the more, if you now accord to our request the sooner, which is, to marry without delay. The time passeth, and will not be recalled: your youth entreats it, and must not be deemed: your country importunes it, and would not be opposed: your neighbours desire it, and hope to be satisfied: and all sorts request it, and wish it for your honour. For when age approacheth, death attends it at the heels, & no man can tell when, or how it will fall upon him. Therefore we humbly request you to accept our supplications, and accord to this importunity, that we may provide by your appointment, a lady worthy of your honour and our subjection. In this we are the more suppliant, because it will rebound so much to the good of your country, and the enlarging your renown: for if it should so fall out (which God forbidden) that you die without issue, we may lament the loss of our lord, but not redress the complaints of the people: we shall want you that was all our comfort, but are sure of distress to our everlasting trouble. If then you either love yourself, or pity us, frame a heart to this impression, and leave not us to further fear and disquiet.  
When the noble lord had thus apprehended the petition of his loving subjects, he resolved to answer them as graciously as they had propounded the business with regard of duty, and so replied: My dearest friends, you have urged me to a matter, in which as yet I have been a mere stranger: for by nature I delight in liberty, and by custom continued my pleasures; both which must needs be kerbed by marriage, and restrained by taking a wife: notwithstanding, I cast away all doubts, to pleasure you; and will think of no encumbrances so you be satisfied. For though marriage hath many difficulties attending; especially, the fear of legitimation in our children, and suspicion of that honour which lies on our wives honesty, yet all shall be overcomne with this resolution, that I shall please you in the same: for I am resolved, if any good come for man's contentment by marriage, it is from God; to whom I submit this cause, and pray for the good success of your wishes, that I may live to maintain your peace, as well as my own pleasure: and look wherein my contentment shall enlarge mine honour, your welfare shall be respected above my life; so that (believe it) I will satisfy your demands, and apply myself to the purpose. Only one thing I request at your hands, to take in worth my choice, and neither insult if she be a princess of greatness, nor repine if she be of mean estate: but love her because I have loved you, and regard her howsoever, in that she is my wife; neither being curious nor inquisitive whom I will choose, nor disaffected when it is past remedy.  
When the company had heard him out, and found him so willing to their satisfaction, they gave him thanks with one heart for his kind admission, and answered with one tongue, he should not find them repugnant, but they would honour his wife as the princess of the world, and be morigerous to him as the Commander of their souls. Thus did this new report (like a messenger of glad tidings) fill all the Marquisate with joy, and the palace with delight, when they understood their lord would marry, and in a manner heard the time appointed: for presently it was proclaimed through the Country, and a day assigned for all comers to come to the Court. The Nobles prepared themselves in the best manner: the Ladies spared no cost, either for ornaments of their bodies, or setting out their beauties: the Gentles flocked to please their lord, and were brave to set out their own greatness: the Citizens were rich in their neatness, and handsome in their attire: the Officers were formal in their shows, and sumptuous in their attendants: the Countryman had his variety, and the very Peasant his bravery; in a word, all sorts gloried in the hope of that festival, and every man's expectation attended the day of the triumph. For never was such a preparation in Saluss before, nor such a confluence of people seen in that country: for besides the novelty, many foreign Princes came to celebrate this marriage, and to show their own greatness. Savoy was near, and sent some from her snowy hills: France as near, and sent others from her fruitful vines: Italy not far off, and sent many from her pleasant fields: and the islands round about kept none at home that would come. Thus were his kindred invited, strangers admitted, his own people entertained, and all sorts welcomed: but as yet no bride was seen, no woman named, no lady designed, no maid published, no wife known: only the preparation was much, and the expectation greater.  
All this while the marquess continued his hunting; and as he had accustomed, resorted much to a poor country village not far from Salusse; where there dwelled as poor a countryman, named janicole, overworn in years, and overcomne with distress. But as it happens many times, that inward graces do moderate outward discommodities, and that God seasoneth poverty with contentment and their sufficient supportation: so had this poor man all his deserts supplied in the admirable comfort of one only daughter; so composed, as if Nature determined a work of ostentation. For such was her beauty in appearance, and virtue in operation, that it put judicious men to an ecstasy in the choice by comparison: but both united did here grace each other; and when they pretended an action, it was all to go forward to perfection. And whereas in others this temporary blessing gave wings to desire, to be seen and known abroad; in her those innated virtues allayed the heat of all manner of passion, and break out of frailty. The viands they had were but mean, and the diet they kept was to satisfy nature: the time was overruled by their stomachs, and the ceremonies they used were thanks to God, & moderation in their repasts. The utensils of the house were homely, yet handsome in regard of their cleanliness: that bed which they had the old man lay in, and the sweet daug●●●● made shift with the ground. No day passed without pr●●●●● and praises to God (for was it not praiseworthy to ha●● such grace in this disgrace?) nor any night, without taking account of the day passed. Her exercise was to help her father in the morning, and drive forth her sheep in the day time: he was at home making of nets, and she abroad looking to her lambs: she was never heard to wish for any better, but to thank God it was no worse. No word of repining ever came from her mouth, or the least grudge from her heart: at night she folded her sheep, and dressed her father's supper: then lay they down to rest, and rested as well as in a bed of Down indeed. This was the glory of their poverty, and memory of their contentment.  
But as fire will not be hid where there is matter comhustible: so virtue will not be obscured where there be tongues and ears: nor could the marquess so hollow after his hawks and hounds, but report hallowed in his ear, as fast, this wonderment; insomuch that when it was confirmed by judicious relation, he made it not dainty to be beholding to his own experience. Which when he saw concurring with fame, the miracle brought a kind of astonishment: which continuing the properties of such novelties, increased to meditation: and so comparing the rest with this rarity, he thought her a fit woman to make his wife; supposing that if she were virtuous by nature, she could not prove vicious by education: but rather as a diamond is a stone of the same value, whether set in lead or horn, it must needs be of more excellency embellished with gold and enamel. In which resolution he prepared his heart, and went forward with his business.  
In the mean time the Court was daintily furnished, the plate prepared, the apparel magnificent, the coronet rich, the jewels precious, the ornaments exceeding, and all things befitting the magnificence of a prince, & the dignity of a queen: only the Nobles wondered, the ladies were amazed, the damsels marveled, the Gentles disputed, the people flocked, and all sorts attended to see who should possess this wealth, and be adorned with these robes. Till at last the nuptial day came indeed: honour prepared the sumptuousness: fame divulged the glory: Hymen invited the guests: magnificence adorned the rooms: the Officers marshalled the State: and all looked for a Bride: but who she was, the next Chapter must discover.   

CHAP. II. How after all this great preparation, the marquess of Saluss demanded Grisell of her poor father janicola; and espousing her, made her marchioness of Saluss.  
WHen all things were extended to this glorious show, the marquess (as if he went to fetch his wife indeed) took with him a great company of Earls, Lords, Knights, Squires and Gentlemen, Ladies and attendants; and went from the Palace into the Country toward janicolas house; where the fair maid Grisel knowing nothing of that which happened, nor once dreaming of that which was to come, had made her house and self somewhat handsome, determining (with the rest of her neighbour Virgins) to see this solemnity: at which instant arrived the marquess with all his gracious company, meeting with Grisel, as she was carrying two pitchers of water to her poor father's house. Of whom (calling her by her name) he asked, where her father was: she humbly answered, in the house. Go then said he, and tell him I would speak with him. So the poor old man (made the poorer by this astonishment) came forth to the Lord somewhat appalled: till the marquess, taking him by the hand, with an extraordinary cheerfulness, said, that he had a secret to impart unto him; and so sequestering him from the company, spoke these words: janicola, I know, that you always loved me, and am resolved, that you do not now hate me: you have been glad when I have been pleased; and will not now be sorrowful, if I be satisfied: nay, I am sure, if it lie in your power, you will further my delight, and not be a contrary to my request. For I intent to beg your daughter for my wife, and be your son in law for your advancement. What sayest thou man? wilt thou accept me for a friend, as I have appointed thee for a father? The poor old man was so astonished, that he could not look up for tears, nor speak a word for joy: but when the ecstasy had end, he thus faintly replied; My gracious Sovereign, you are my lord, and therefore I must accord to your will; but you are generous, and therefore I presume on your virtue: take her a God's name, and make me a glad father; and let that God, which raiseth the humble and meek, make her a befiting wife, and fruitful mother. Why then, replied the marquess, let us enter your house: for I must ask her a question before you. So he went in, the company tarrying without in great astonishment: the fair maid was busied to make it as handsome as she could; and proud again, to have such a guest under her roof; amazed at nothing, but why he should come so accompanied, and little conjecturing of so great a blessing approaching. But at last, the marquess took her by the hand, and used these speeches: To tell you this blush becomes you, it were but a folly; and that your modesty hath graced your comeliness, may prove the deceit of words, and unbefitting my greatness: but in a word, your father and I have agreed to make you my wife, and I hope you will not disagree to take me to your husband. For delay shall not entangle you with suspicion, nor two days longer protract the kindness: only I must be satisfied in this, if your heart afford a willing entertainment to the motion; and your virtue a constancy to this resolution, Not to repine at my pleasure in any thing, nor presume on contradiction, when I determine to command. For as amongst good soldiers, they must simply obey without disputing the business: so must virtuous wives dutifully consent without reproof, or the least contraction of a brow. Therefore be advised how you answer, and I charge you take heed, that the tongue utter no more than the heart conceits. All this while was Grisel wondering at the miracle, had not religion told her, that nothing was impossible to the Commander of all things; which reduced her to a better consideration, and thus brought forth an answer:  
My gracious lord, I am not ignorant of your greatness, and know mine own baseness; there is no worth in me to be your servant, therefore there can be no desert to be your wife: notwithstanding, because God will be the Author of miraculous accidents, I yield to your pleasure, and praise him for the fortune, only this I will be bold to say, That your will shall shall be my delight, and death shall be more welcome unto me, than a word of displeasure against you.  
This is sufficient, answered the great lord, and so most lovingly he took her by the hand, and brought her to the company, even before all his peers and great ladies; and told them, she should be his wife: so that wherein they extended their love, reverence, and obedience toward her, he would exemplify his regard, care, and diligence toward them. And because outward shows do sometimes grace befitting actions (lest her poverty and baseness might too much daunt their expectation, and seem disgracious to their nobleness) he commanded them with a moral liveliness to adorn her with the richest robes they had: so that it was a pleasure to see, how the ladies bestir themselves; a delight, to behold the several services performed; the many hands about her; the jewels and pendants, the robes and mantles; the ornaments and coronets; the collanaes and chains; with all other particulars and accouterements: but when she was appareled indeed, it was a ravishment exceeding report, and they which stomached her preferment, were now delighted with her glory. Such a benefit hath beauty by nature, and graciousness by nurture.   

CHAP. III. How the marquess and Grisel were married together.  
AFter the ladies had thus adorned poor Grisel with robes befitting her estate, the marquess and all the noble company returned to Saluss, and in the Cathedral Church in sight of the people, according to the fullness of religious ceremonies, they were espoused together, and with great solemnity returned to the palace. Herein yet consisted the admiration, that no word of reproach was murmured, nor eye looked unpleasantly upon her: for by her wonderful demeanour she had gained so much of opinion, that the baseness of her birth was not thought upon, and all her graces concurring made them verily believe, she was extracted of princely lineage: no man once supposed, that she could be Grisel, daughter to poor janicola; but rather some creature metamorphosed by the powers of heaven: for besides the outward stateliness & majestical carriage of herself, the wonderful modesty and exact symmetry of her countenance, the admirable beauty and extraordinary favour of her visage, her fair demeanour had a kind of attraction, and her gracious words, a sweet delivery; so that all that came to her were glad of their access, and they which went from her, triumphed for their good speed: yea, report extended so far, that she was not only visited by her own lords and ladies with reverence; but attended on with strangers, who came from all quarters to see her, and to be beholding to their own judgements: so that if the marquess loved her before for her own worth, he now reverenced her for others respect; the rather, because he found a blessing attending her presence, and all people pleased in the contract. For when any controversy happened between himself and his Nobles, she was so nobly minded, that what she could not obtain by fair entreaty, she yet mitigated by sweet persuasion. When any unkindness happened of foreign Princes, she urged those blessings of peace, and reasoned the matter with delightsome enforcement & when the people were either complained of, or against, he marveled from whence she had those pretty reasons to assuage his anger, and they verily believed she was sent from heaven for their relief. Thus was she amiable to her lord, acceptable to her people, profitable to her Country, a mirror of her Sex, a person privileged by nature, and a wonder of the time, in which she did nothing out of time; so that the marquess was rather ravished then loving, and all his subjects resolved to obedience from her good example.   

CHAP. FOUR How the Lady Grisel was proved by her Husband, who thus made trial of her patience.  
TO other blessings, in process of time, there was added the birth of a sweet Infant, a Daughter, that rejoiced the mother, and gladded the father; the Country triumphed, and the people clapped their hands for joy. For the marquess still loved her more and more, and they thought their lives not dear for her, if occasion served. Notwithstanding all this, Fortune hath still a trick to check the pride of life, and prosperity must be seasoned with some crosses, or else it would taint & corrupt us too much. Whereupon, the marquess determined now to prove his wife, and make trial of her virtues indeed: and so taking a convenient season, after the child was fully meaned, he one day repaired secretly to her chamber, and (seeming half angry) thus imparted his mind:  
Although, Grisel, this your present Fortune hath made you forget your former estate, and that the jollity of your life overswayeth the remembrance of your birth; yet, neither is it so with me, nor my Nobles: For I have some occasion of distasting, and they great cause of repining, in that they must be subject to one so base, and have still before their eyes our children of such low degree; so that though (for my sake) they make good semblance of the present, yet are they resolved never to suffer any of our posterity to rule over them; of which, as they have disputed with me, I cannot choose but forewarn you: Therefore, to prevent this discontentment between us, and to maintain that peace which must corroborate my estate, I must needs yield to their judgements, and take away your Daughter from you, to preserve their amity: the thing I know must be displeasing to Nature, and a Mother cannot well endure such a loss: but there is now no remedy, only make use of your first resolutions, and remember what you promised me at the beginning of our Contract.  
The Lady hearing this sorrowful preamble, and apprehending the marquess resolution, to her grief (although every word might have been as arrows in her sides) yet admitting of the temptation, and disputing with herself to what end the virtues of Patience, Modesty, Forbearance, Fortitude and Magnanimity were ordained, if they had not subjects to work upon, and objects to look after; thus replied:  
My lord, you are my Sovereign, and all earthly pleasures and contentments of my life come from you, as the fountain of my happiness; and therefore please yourself, and (believe it) it is my pleasure that you are pleased: as for the child, it is the gift of God and yours. Now he that gives may take away, and as we receive blessings from heaven, so must we not dote on them on earth; lest by setting our minds too much upon them, we cannot set off our hearts when they are taken from us: only one thing I desire, that you remember I am a mother, and if I burst not out into passion for her loss, it is for your sake I am no more perplexed, and so you shall ever find me a wife befitting your desires.  
When the marquess saw her constancy, and was in a manner pleased with her modest answer, he replied not at all at that time. For his heart was full, and what between joy and fear he departed: joy that so great virtue had the increase of goodness: fear that he had presumed too far on such a trial: but resolved in his business, he went to put it to the adventure.   

CHAP. V The marquess sent a Varlet for his daughter; but privately disposed of her with his sister, the Duchess of Bologna de grace, who brought her up in all things befitting the child of so great a person.  
NOt long after this sad conference between the marquess and his lady, he called a faithful servant unto him; such a one as the poet talks of, propter fidem & taciturnitatem dilectum, to whom he imparts this secrecy; and with several instructions, what he truly meant to do with the child, sent him to his wife with an unsavoury message; which yet he delivered in this manner:  
I had not now come to you, most noble lady, though that power commanded me, which hath my life in subjection, if I had not more relied upon your wisdom and virtue, than feared death itself. Therefore I crave pardon if I am displeasing in my message, and seem cruel (as it were) in tearing your flesh from your sides, by bereaving you of this your daughter: for he hath appointed it that must not be gainsaid, and I am a messenger that cannot be denied: but yet with what unwillingness (God knows my soul.) in regard that you are so respected amongst us, that we think of nothing but what may delight you, and talk not a word, but of your merit and worthiness!  
When she had heard him out; remembering the conference the marquess had with her, and apprehending there was no disputing in a matter remediless, especially with a messenger, she resolved it was ordained to die: and although she must now (as it were) commit it to a slaughter-house, whereby any woman in the world might with good becoming have burst out into some passion, and well enough showed a distracted ecstasy; yet recollecting her spirits, and reclaiming those motives of nature already striving in her bowels, she took the child in her arms, and with a mother's blessing, and sweetened kisses, the countenance somewhat sad, and the gesture without any violent excruciation, delivered it unto the fellow, not once amazed nor distempered, because her lord would have it so, and she knew not how to have it otherwise: only she said, I must, my friend, entreat one thing at your hands, that out of humanity and Christian observation, you leave not the body to be devoured of beasts or birds: for it is worthy of a grave in her innocency: and Christian burial, though she were but my daughter alone.  
The fellow having received the child, durst not tarry for fear of discovery (such impression had her words make already) but returned with it to his Master; not leaving out the least circumstance of her answer, nor any thing might enlarge her renown and constancy.  
The marquess considering the great virtue of his wife, and looking on the beauty of his daughter, began to enter into a kind of compassion, and to retract his wilfulness: but at last, resolution won the field of pity and having (as he thought) so well begun, would not so soon give over: but with the same secrecy he had taken her from his wife, he sent it away to his sister, the Duchess of Bologna, with presents of worth, and letters of gratification, containing in them the nature of the business, and the manner of her bringing up; which she accordingly put in practice, receiving her niece with joy, and instructing her with diligence: so that it soon appeared, under what a tutelage she was, and whose daughter she might be. For her pregnancy learned whatsoever they taught her: and the grace she added, quickly discovered, that honour had confederated with nature to make her the offspring of such a mother.   

CHAP. VI The marquess, not contented with this proof, took away also her son, in which adversity (with other additions) she showed an extraordinary patience.  
AFter this tempest was overpast, the rage whereof might easily have broken the tender sides of poor Grisels Bark (For, she verily believed that her Daughter was slain) the marquess still lay in wait for the trial of his wife, watching every opportunity which might acquaint him with her discontentments; especially, if he might understand whether she complained of his rigorousness and unkindness, or no: but when he not only was advertised of her constancy, and fair demeanour, but saw (by experience) that she was neither elated in prosperity, nor dejected in adversity: when he perceived so great a temperature between the joy of her advancement and the sorrow for her trouble, he wondered at her constancy; and the rather, because her love and observation toward him continued with that sweetness, and had such delectable passages, that his heart was set on fire again, and he knew not how to allay the extremities of his joy. In this manner passed four years, wherein she overpassed all of her kind; and he thought it a donative from heaven to have such a wife. At last, nature bestirred herself again, and made her a happy mother of a fair son; the joy whereof led the whole Country into the house of prayer & thanksgiving, and brought them home again by cresset-light and bonfires: so that she well perceived how acceptable she was to her people, and beloved of her husband. Notwithstanding, with the same water that drove the mill, he drowned it; and made her still believe the contrary: for after two years, that the child was past the danger of a cradle, and the trouble of infancy, he took occasion once again to inflict upon the virtuous Grisel a new punishment; erecting his building upon the old foundation. You know, saith he, what former contentions I have had with my Nobility about our marriage, not that they can lay any imputation on you or your worthy behaviour, but on my fortune and disastrous affection to match myself so meanly: wherein yet their forward exprobration was rebated, all the while we either had no children, or that they supposed, that which we had to be taken from us: all which ariseth out of the error of ambition (which, in a manner, is careless of virtue) respecting nothing but a high Progeny: so that ever since this child was borne, there hath passed many secret grudge, and unkind speeches against it, as if it were a disparagement to their greatness, to have a lord of so mean Parentage, and the Country to be subject to the grand child of janicola, whom you see, never since our marriage, they would admit to place of honour, or to overtop them by way of association; nor will suffer this my Gualther, though it carry the father's name to rule over them. Therefore, to allay the heat of these present fires, & to preserve the peace of my estate (by preventing the mischief of future troubles) I am resolved to settle my contentment, and to deal with your son, as I have dealt with your daughter. And of this I thought good to advertise you, as a preparative for patience, lest sorrow should distract with oversuddennesse.  
Now you Ladies and Dames of these times, that stand upon terms of spirit and greatness of heart (some will have it courage and magnanimity of mind) that are affrighted at the Character of a fool: and silly poor soul, I speak not of Strumpets, or of such as are willing to brand themselves with the impurity of uncleanness, and dare out of impudence or running, tell their Husbands to their faces, they will go where they list, and do what they please; but of such that under that impregnable target of honesty are yet so impatient at every distemperature, that they dare answer taunt for taunt: yea like Viragos indeed offer the first blow, though a horrible confusion follow; what would you have answered this lord? or with what fireworks would you have made your approaches unto him? I will not tarry for your answer, lest I pull the old house in pieces, and so though I scape the timber I may be crushed with the rubbish: but I will now 〈…〉 all objections. In telling you what fair GRISEL said: and if there be hope of reformation, insert it as a caution, to divert you from your natural fierceness.  
When she had heard him out: though to the grief of her soul, she conceived the murder of her child, and that the apprehension renewed the sorrow of her daughter's loss: yet would she give no way to such distemperature, that either he should have cause to suspect her patience, or she herself the temptation of disquiet; and therefore thus replied: My lord, I have many times told you, that my soul rejoiceth in nothing but in your reposednes: for you are the lord of me and this infant: and though I could be contented to show myself a mother in his education, and bring him now and then unto you as the pledge of our loves, yet are you the commander of my vows, and I will rectify all disordered appetites by the rule of your pleasure. Take him then a God's name, and if he be marked for death, it is but the common brand of all creatures; nay, if the mother may be a sacrifice of propitiation to appease your disquiet, never was lamb so meek, nor holocaust so willing to be offered. For, what may be comprehended under the titles of father, kindred, children, friends, life, pleasure, honour and contentment, are all comprised under your love, and the society of a husband. Do with me then what you please: the body shall serve your turn while it lives, and the soul attend you after death.  
Here was an answer to pacify the tyrants of Sicily, and put a man quite out of his tract of proving such a wife: yet the marquess only made use of it to rejoice in the assurance of her goodness; and went the rather forward in his dangerous course of temptation.   

CHAP. VII. The marquess, resolute to prove his wife further, sendeth for his son, & disposeth of him as he had done of his daughter.  
AS this patiented and wonderful lady was one day sporting with her infant; like an untimely tempest (spoiling the beauty of some new rooted plants) did this messenger of death interpose himself between her recreation, making the hollow demand of her son worse than the noise of aschrich-owle over a sick man's bed: yet (as if there were a conscience in disquieting her greatness, or if you will, her goodness) he came forward with preambles and apologies, insinuating with craving pardon the authority of a lord, the duty of a servant, the terror of death, the circumstance of obedience, and all other enforcements which might either excuse a messenger, or make the message itself without blame. What should I enlarge a discourse of terror? it is a courtesy to conclude a mischief with quickness: he was not so sudden in his demand, as she was ready in her dispatch: for she presently blest the child, kissed it, crossed it, adorned it, and delivered it to the executioner: only with the same enforcement she pleaded, as she had spoken of in the behalf of her daughter; not to see it perish for lack of a burial, or devoured for want of a grave.  
In this manner, and with this report he returned to his lord, who had still more cause of amazement, and less reason to trouble such a creature, had not his wilfulness put him forward to make an end of his business, and taught him still variety of trying this gold in the fire. But for the time, he sent likewise this child to his sister, the Duchess of Bologna (yet some will have her but Countess of Paniche) who, understanding her brother's mind, brought up both these children in such a fashion, that though no man knew whose children they were, yet they imagined whose they might be; that is, the son and daughter of some prince, or other potentate, willing to have his children brought up to the best purpose, and befitting their birth and honour.  
The ordering of this business in this sort, made the marquess once again settle himself in Saluss, where he kept open house to all comers; and was proud of nothing so much, as the honour of his wife, and the love of his people: for although he had thus tried her patience and constancy, giving her more than sufficient cause of anguish and perturbation, yet could he not find fault, or had the least demonstration of offence, but still she loved him more and more, and was so observingly dutiful, and cautelous of displeasure, that many times he grew enamoured of that he might command, and seemed passionate in the distractions of over-ioy. Nor could the length of time make this love wearisome, for all they had lived thus a dozen years together: only she got the hand of him in the opinion of the people, who by this time began to whisper against his unkindness, that had married so virtuous a woman, & bereaved her of two children, so that if they were slain, it was a murder, if otherwise, it was unkindness. For though she were poor janicolas daughter by birth, yet she might come from heaven for her virtue, and was sure to go thither for her piety. Notwithstanding these break out, which came often to the ears of his honour, such was her moderation and his government, that they only whispered the same in her behalf, and contented themselves with the expectation of future good, as they had the fruition of present happiness; not meddling with the same further, then in the commiseration of her, and still acknowledging their duty to him: so that although he knew she might this way understand his former reasons of taking away her children, that it was but a device, and that there were some other motives, which procured this unkindness: yet was he still obstinate to exercise her patience, and conceit beat out another plot of offence on the anvil of a loving, yet most hardened heart.   

CHAP. IX. The marquess, to try his Lady further, made her believe he would marry another wife.  
SOme dozen years were passed, since the marquess of Saluss had sent his daughter to Bologna to his sister (as you have heard) who was by this time grown to that beauty, comeliness and perfection, that her fame busied all Europe; and the lady Grisel, her Mother, was made acquainted with her excellency; whereupon, he very strangely sent to Rome, by a Messenger of trust, for counterfeit letters to marry his Paragon, and to be dispensed from his first wife. Which was so effectually dispatched, that the Messenger soon returned with the approbation of his request, and he himself had many allegations in readiness to excuse the matter, intimating the good of the Country, and the continual desire of his people for the alteration; which although it was far from probability, because they pitied their lady's distress, and rather repined against their lords unconstancy: yet it served his turn for the time, and he thereupon erected the frame of this second marriage. By this time is the fair Grisel acquainted with the business, and troubled at the misfortune; but having many times played the wanton with affliction, she resettled herself to endure whatsoever should be imposed: so that when she came to the proof indeed, nothing affronted her constancy, nor humbled her lower, than her own virtue had taught her the way.  
In the mean while the marquess had under hand sent to the Count of Paniche, and his sister, to bring him his children with all the pomp and glory they could prepare; with caution, not to discover their names and to be at a day appointed at Saluss: so that it passed for currant all over the Country, that a lady, a young, brave, and gallant lady, of great lineage, and greater worth, of high renown and mighty affinity, was coming into Saluss to be espoused to the marquess, and that they were already come out of Bologna de Grace, a whole days journey forward, with such a troup and company, that it was a show of magnificence, and a spectacle of delight. For amongst the rest, there was a young lord, not fully eight year old, whose bravery and gallantness drew all men's eyes with admiration toward him, had not the lady divided the gazing, and shared with their opinion. For, besides her riches and outward ornaments, her youth (as not fully thirteen) and upright comeliness, her beauty and gracious behaviour, she was of extraordinary stature and majestic presence.  
These things thus disposed and handsomely carried, the marquess took an opportunity thus to speak to the disconsolate Grisel before all his people: In times past I confess you deserved my love, and notwithstanding the disparity between us, I thought it well bestowed upon you; nay, I cannot now impute any ill desert unto you: notwithstanding, for some reasons to myself best known, of which I have made the holy Father acquainted, I am resolved to take another wife; who, as you hear, is on the way hitherward already: therefore I would advise you to retire to your father's cottage, till you hear further from me.  
Alas my lord, replied the sweet soul, I ever disputed the matter with reason, that there was no equality between so great magnificence and my humiliation, and in the greatest assurance of my prosperity, replaced myself a vassal & handmaid; proud of nothing but my own readiness to be at your command, & your willingness to employ me in your affairs; so that I take God to my witness, I scarce trusted myself with the name of a wife, when I was in the best assurance. Therefore I must acknowledge, what you have heretofore vouchsafed, as a part of great bounty, and the very fruits of your generousness. As for returning to my poor Father's house, I am most willing; and there as you please, like a forlorn widow will spend the rest of my days: yet remember I was your wife, espoused orderly, and you have had children by me, so that if I there die, I must yet die the widow of such a lord, and for honours sake be so reputed. As for your new Spouse, God grant her many days of comfort, and you many years of joy, that you may live in reciprocal delight one with another, and entertain no worse contentment, then poor Grisel accustomed. As for my Dowry I brought, I brought only myself, and will have no more back again, which was, faith, love, reverence, poverty and virginity: For, as I came naked from my father's house, I am contented to return so again. Your jewels are in the wardrobe, and even the ring you married me withal, in the Chambex: of this I wear I shall quickly be disrobed, and if there be any further misery appointed, my patience can endure it, if your pleasure impose it; only in recompense of my Virginity, I request a poor smock to hide that womb from public overlooking, that was once so private to so great a Prince: and because it was the bed of your Infants, let it not be the storne of your people, but give me leave thus to go out of the Palace, that hereafter times may wonder, how quietly a woman yielded to so great a change. Nay, let no man shed a tear, I must be more naked than so: for though the wife of a marquess while I lived, and the widow when I died, yet am I not too good for a grave, but in despite of pride must return to dust and ashes.  
Did I say before, they began to weep? I can assure you, when she had done, they roared outright; yea, the marquess himself shed so many tears, that he was feign to retire; and commanded the smock she had begged to be sent unto her, that she might prosecute the enterprise, and he determine his business, as he had constantly projected.   

CHAP. VIII. How the patiented Grisel was disrobed of her apparel, and restored all that she had (except one poor smock) to the marquess.  
BEfore I proceed any further in this wonderful discovery, I am sure two things will be objected against me: first, the impossibility of the story; secondly, the absurdity of the example. 〈◊〉 the story I answer, that therefore it was thus published and connected together, for the rarity of the business, and the sweetness of the success; nor is it any way stranger than many Roman passages, and Grecian discourses. For the application, it is both necessary and befitting: for whereas in the condition of women, amongst many other there be two especial errors against the modesty of their sex, and quietness of their husbands, videlicet, superiority, and desire of liberty (I name not irregular behaviour, household inconveniences, and domestics strife) this one example (as Hercules did the serpents) strangles them both in the cradle: and though it cannot prevent, yet will it exprobrate the fault. First concerning superiority, I hope the instances of Scripture are not made Canonical to no purpose: and out of reason and natural enforcement, what a filthiness is it to a generous spirit, to have a woman so presumptuous as to take an account of her husband's actions and business? wherein many times they are so peremptory, that I have seen them enter into the room of privacy, where secret businesses of strangers have been imparted, and were to be discussed, nor hath this been done with a lovely insinuation, or cunning excuse of longing, or willingness to be instructed, or other pretty inducements to permission, but with a high commanding voice, and impudent assurances of their own worth: yea, I have known them break open letters before they came to their husbands overlooking, and have wondered even at soldiers themselves, that would give way to such undecency. Again, to be counterchecked in this wilfulness, what clamours have been raised? what tumults and discomforts occasioned? that instead of awful obedience and delightsome affability, they have burst out into outrageousness, commanded tears of mischief, and threatened suspicions revenges: but let them soil themselves in the filthiness of this humour never so much, I say plainly, that though their husbands were fools by nature, yet is it not befitting for a wife to discover the same, or overrule in foreign affairs, I mean matters which concern them not: for there is no great man so weak, but hath council and supportation of inferior Officers; nor mean man so sottish, but hath friends or servants in the dispatch of his business. Secondly, concerning the desire of liberty; oh hellish device of the devil, and fearful custom both of France and England! I hope he that knows the fashions of the East, of Muscovy, Spain, Italy, and the Mores, understands, that no married wife goes abroad but to honourable purposes; and it is an introduction to death, to salute any stranger, or be seen in private conference. For, in true understanding, what business should any man have with my wife three hours together in private? or why, without my leave, and that upon good grounds, should she wander in public. I speak not to overthrow noble societies, generous entertainment, familiar invitations, courteous behaviour, charitable welcomes, honest recreations, or peradventure, the imparting of private business: but merely against foppish wantonness, idle talk, suspicions meetings, damnable play-hunting, disorderly gaming, unbefitting exercises; and in a word, all such things as tend to obscenity and wickedness; in which (say what women can) if there be not a moderation, by nature, there must be an enforcement by judgement: and that woman that will not be ruled by good council, must be overruled by better example. Of which, this now in hand (of lady Grisel) is a mirror, and transparent Crystal to manifest true virtue, and wifely duty indeed, and so I come to the wonder of her obedience.  
After the marquess was resolved to the last Act of her trial, and had sent her the smock she demanded, amongst all the Lords, Knights, Ladies and other company, she presently disrobed herself, and went so accompanied, from the Palace, to her father's Cottage, who as you have heard (for divers reasons) was only kept from want, but never advanced out of the same.  
The company could not choose but weep and deplore the alteration of Fortune: she could not choose but smile, that her virtue was predominant over passion: they exclaimed against the cruelty of her lord, she disclaimed the least inventive against him: they wondered at so great virtue and patience, she resolved them they were exercises befitting a modest woman; they followed her with true love and desires to do her good, she thanked them with a true heart, and request to desist from any further deploring of her estate.  
By this time they approached the house, and the poor old man janicola acquainted with the hurly burly, came out to see what the matter was. And finding it was his daughter in her smock, and in so honourable a company, bemoaning her distress, she quickly left them all unspoken unto, and ran in for those poor robes, which were formerly left in the house: with which he quickly arrayed her, and told her before them all, that now she was in her right element; and kissing her, bad her welcome. The company was as much astonished at his moderation, as at her constancy, wondering how nature could be so restrained from passion, and that any woman had such grace to be so gracious; in which amaze, not without some reprehension of fortune, and their Lord's cruelty, they left her to the poverty of the Cell, and returnrd themselves to the glory of the Palace: where they recounted to the marquess, the strangeness of the business, and the manner of the accidents, and she continued in her first moderation and indefatigable patience; the poor Father only laughing to scorn the miseries and sudden mutability of human condition, and comforting his daughter in her well-begun courses of modesty and reposedness.  
Not long after, approached the Countess of Paniche, or if you will Duchess of Bologna, with her glorious company and beautiful lady, sending word before hand, that she would be at Saluss such a day; whereupon the marquess sent a troup to welcome her, and prepared the Court for her entertainment: the bruit of which yet had not so equal a passage, but divers contrarious opinions thus bandied themselves; some absolutely condemned the inconstancy of the lord, others deplored the misfortune of the lady; some repined to see a man so cruel against so great worthiness, others exemplified her praises to all eternity; some were transported with the gallant youth and comeliness of this now beautiful Virgin, others presumed to parallel the fair Grisel, but that she had stepped a little before her in years: some harped upon her great Nobility and high Lineage, others compared the former wife's virtue and true wisdom; some excused their lord, by the love to his Country, others excused the lady, by the nature of the adversity, until the approach of the fair Virgin and the young Noble man in her company, extinguished all former conceits, and set them to a new work, concerning this spectacle, wherein the young lady, and her brave brother had such pre-eminence: nor knew the Earl of Paniche himself or any of the company on either side, that they were his own children by Grisel, but merely strangers, and designed for this new marriage. So the great marquess made good semblance, and with his accustomed courtliness welcomed them all to the Palace.  
The very next morning (or, if you will, the day before) he sent a Messenger for Grisel to come unto him in the very same manner as she was, who protracted no time, but presently attended her lord: at her approach he was somewhat appalled: but yet setting (as we say) the best foot forward, he thus proceeded.  
The lady (Grisel) with whom I must marry, will be here to morrow by this time, and the feast is prepared accordingly; now because there is none so well acquainted with the secrets of my Palace, and disposition of myself as you, I would have you, for all this base attire, address your wisdom to the ordering of the business, appointing such officers as is befitting, and disposing the rooms, according to the degrees and estate of the persons: let the lady have the privilege of the marriage chamber, and the young lord the pleasure of the gallery, let the rest be lodged in the Courts, and the better sort upon the sides of the garden: let the viands be plentiful, and the ceremonies maintained; let the shows be sumptuous, and the pastimes as it becometh: in a word, let nothing be wanting, which may set forth my honour, and delight the people.  
My Lord, saith she, I ever told you, I took pleasure in nothing but your contentment, and whatsoever might comfort to your delight, therein consisted my joy and happiness: therefore make no question of my diligence and duty in this, or any other thing which it shall please you to impose upon me: and so like a poor servant she presently addressed herself to the business of the house; performing ell things with such a quickness and grace, that each one wondered at her goodness and fair demeanour, and many murmured to see her put to such a trial. But the day of entertainment is now comen: and when the fair lady approached, her very presence had almost extinguished the impression of Grisels worthiness: for some unconstant humourists gave way to the alteration, not blaming the marquess for such a change. But when the strangers were made acquainted with the Fortune of Grisel; and saw her fair demeanour, they could not but esteem her a woman of great virtue and honour; being more amazed at her patience, then at the mutability of man's condition; till at last she approached the lady, and taking her by the hand, used this speech.  
Lady, if it were not his pleasure that may command to bid you welcome, yet me thinks there is a kind of overruling grace from nature in you, that must exact a respect unto you. And as for you, young lord, I can say no more, but if I might have my desires satisfied in this world, they should be employed to wish you well, and to endeavour all things for your entertainment indeed. To the rest I afford what is befitting; desiring them, that if any deficiency amate their expectation, they would impute it either to my ignorance, or negligence: for it is the pleasure of him, in whose will is all my pleasure, that in all sufficiency you should have have regard and supplement. And so she conducted them to their several chambers, where they reposed themselves awhile, till the time of dinner invited them to repast. When all things were prepared, and the solemnity of placing the guests finished, the marquess sent for Grisel; and rising on his feet, took her by the hand before them all, erecting his body, and elating his vo●●● in this manner: You see the lady is here I mean to marry: and the company gloriously prepared to witness the same: are you therefore contented that I shall thus dispose of myself, and do quietly yield to the alteration?  
My lord, replied she before them all, wherein as a woman I might be faulty, I will not now dispute: but because I am your wife, and have devoted myself to obedience, I am resolved to delight in nothing but your pleasure: so that if this match be designed for your good, and determined by your appointment, I am much satisfied, and more then much contented. And for you lady, I wish you the delights of your marriage, and the honour of your husband, many years of happiness, and the fruits of a chaste wedlock: only gracious lord, take heed of one thing, that you try not this new bride as you have done your old wife: for she is young, and peradventure of another strain, and so may want of that patience and government, which I, poor I, have endured.  
Till this, he held out bravely: but nature overcoming resolution, and considering with what strange variety his unkindness had passed, he could not answer a word for tears, and all the company stood confounded at the matter, wondering what would be the end of the business, and the success of the ecstasy: But to draw them out of their doubts, the next Chapter shall determine the controversy.   

CHAP. X. The Oration of the marquess to his wife, and the discovery of her children, to her great joy, and the contentment of all the company.  
AFter a little reducement of his passion, and that time, and further meditation had disposed his senses to their perfect estate, the marquess graciously answered:  
Thou wonder of women, and Champion of true virtue; I am ashamed of my imperfections, and tired with abusing thee, I have tried thee beyond reason, and thou hast forborn me beyond modesty: believe it therefore, I will have no wife but thyself, and when God hath thought thee too good for the earth, I will (if it be not too much superstition) pray to thee in heaven. Oh, 'tis a pleasure to be acquainted with thy worth, and to come near thy goodness maketh a man better than himself. For without controversy, except thou hadst been sent from above, then couldst never have acted a goddesses part below: and therefore seeing I have used thee so unkindly heretofore, I protest never to disquiet thee hereafter: and wherein my cruelty extended against thee in bereaving thee of thy children, my love shall now make amends in restoring thy daughter. For this my new bride is she; and this wanton, her brother: thank this great lady (my sister) for their bringing up, and this man (you know him well enough) for his secrecy. be not amazed at the matter, I have related a truth, and will confirm it on my honour: only sit down till the dinner is done, and bid the company welcome in this poor ●●tire: for the sun will break through slender clouds, and virtue shine in base array. I could much dilate the matter, but it is time to end, lest the circumstances will never end. This device of the Marquesses, of kissing her so lovingly, and setting her down by him so discreetly, did much good. For the company had time to dispute of the miracle, and the young lady reason to prepare her obedience; which, no sooner was the dinner finished, but she as soon performed, nothing thought upon but joy at the matter, and wonder at the accident: every one pleased to see such a unity of goodness, and all delighted to have a business so well concluded. But seeing time had unclasped a book of such jollity, there was now no further disputing: For the ladies flocked about her to attend her into the chamber; where the young Princess her daughter was as ready as the best to apparel her: so that when she came amongst them again, she shined like the Sun after a tempest, and seemed more glorious, because her continued modesty kept her from all insulting and vain glorious bravery.  
Thus was the marquess invested as it were with a new blessedness 〈◊〉 she continued in her old con●●●●●● 〈◊〉 admired and reverenced for her worth, as he was esteemed and regarded for his wisdom: the Nobles applying themselves to renown his estate, and the People proud they had such 〈…〉 to obey, especially satisfied when the poor janicola 〈◊〉 advanced to his Council, and made Governor of his Palace; wherein he behaved himself so well, that for ten years he still lived as he had been bred a Courtier; and died w●●● 〈◊〉 memory of a good report. Grisel lasted thirty yeare● after him: and all went to their graves in good times the Country renowned over the world for their admirable government, and famosed for this extraordinary wonder.  
Non nulla difficilis (ut ita dicam) neque passio, neque 〈◊〉 d●●●●uius non sufferre queat pondus hominis natura.  Euripides Orestei.  
FINIS.