Eliosto LIBIDINOSO: Described in two Books: Wherein Their imminent dangers are declared, who guiding the course of their life by the compane of Affection, either dash their Ship against most dangerous shelves, or else attain the Haven with extreme Prejudice.  
Written by JOHN HIND.  HOR: ART: POET. 
Aut prodesse volunt, aut delectare Poëtae,  
Aut simul & jucunda, & idonea dicere vitae.  
AT LONDON, Printed by Valentine Simmes, and are to be sold by Nathaniel Butter. 1606.   

To the Right Honourable, and truly ennobled Lord, Philip Herbert, Earl of Mountgomery, and Baron of Shurland, etc. john Hind wisheth all happiness that either this world affords, or the heavens contain.  
DVtie bindeth, and Affection compelleth me to demonstrate unto the world's view, how deeply I stand engaged unto your honour. My debt, I must confess, is great, and my unsufficient estate of ever deserving the least favours which have been extended unto me, vrge●… the presentation of ELIOSTO unto you●… aspect. I desire but your favourable acceptance, and good opinion; wherewith protected, let the envious pursue me with never so virulent, and austere constructions, I shall both contemn their persons, and disdain their judgements. I know my own worth, and am privy to their ignorance: where the wise and discreet sit as Censors, there do I presume of favour: But where fools give in their suppositions, there joves propitiation must be implored, unto whose benediction I commend you evermore.  
Your Honours in all duty:  
JOHN HIND.   

Ad Lectorem.  

NOn hic Thesauros divitis ingêni,  
F●…cundae linguae ne●… varios sonos,  
Sed fortè insulsos accipies iocos,  
Quos dum compon●…, nescio quatenùs  
〈◊〉 ●…rimen▪ parce precor m●…hi  
Err●…nti, (Lector Candide) tu p●…tes.  
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 f●… ti●…iùs seg●…▪   
Ioha●…nes Hind.   

Verses in praise of the Book.  

WHere Virtue takes his habitation,  
There all the Graces like Pedisequae,  
Do burnish and adorn the room: The mind  
Then being simply pure, is capable  
Of every noble form, and sendeth forth  
The Crystal streams of pleasing Eloquence●…  
Peruse this Work: Here hath Dame Arete  
Enclosed herself, and Art as swift, as is  
The speedy Hind, doth strive to beautify  
Each Line and Leaf with Learning's attributes.  
Read then: and Errors which are obvious  
" Interpret mildly. The great'st enemy  
" That Science hath, is obtuse Ignorance.   
Alexander Burlacy Esquire.   

ELIOSTO LIBIDINOSO.  
IN the I'll Cyprus there reigned a king called Amasias, whose fortunate success in wars against his foes, and bountiful courtesy towards his friends in peace, made him to be greatly feared, and loved of all men. This Amasias had to wife a Lady called Philoclea, by birth royal, learned by education, fair by nature, by virtues famous, so that it was hard to judge whether her beauty, fortune, or virtue, won the greatest commendations. These two linked together in perfect love, led their lives with such fortunate content, that their subjects greatly rejoiced to see their quiet disposition. They had not been married long, but Fortune (willing to increase their happiness) lent them a son, so adorned with the gifts of Nature, as the perfection of the child greatly augmented the love of the parents, and the joy of their Commons: insomuch that the men of Cyprus to show their inward joys by outward actions, made Bonfires and Triumphs throughout all the Kingdom, appointing Iustes, and Turneiss, for the honour of their young Prince: whither resorted, not only his Nobles, but also divers Kings and Princes, which were his neighbours, willing to divulge the friendship which they bore to Amasias, and to win fame and glory by their prowess and valour. Amasias, whose mind was fraught with princely liberality, entertained the King, Princes, and Noblemen, with such submiss courtesy, and magnifical bounty, that they all saw how willing he was to gratify their good wills, making a general feast for his Subjects, which continued by the space of forty days: all which time the solemnities were kept, to the great content both of the Lords and Ladies there present. This triumph being ended, the assembli●… took their leave of Amasias; and Philoclea their young sonn●… (who was called 〈◊〉) was nursed up in the house, to the great joy and content of the Parents. Fortune envious of such happy success, willing to show some sign of her inconstancy, turned her wheel, and darkened their bright s●…nne of prosperity, with the misty clouds of mishap and misery. For it ●…o happened that the King and Queen purposing to take the ay●…e, had appointed a day to hunt in one of their Forests to sport themselves, where having a Stag in chase, through their hot pursuit, Philoclea fell from her Steed, and was sore bruised, who being by her guard speedily rai●…ed, was immediately carried to the Palace door, much weakened and wearied, with sustaining such an intestine conflict: at length such was the boisterousness of deaths continual battery, (like unripe fruit which abideth many plucking before it fall) she striving with often plunges, in her last and latest gasp, gave up the ghost. This sudden event so appalled the King's senses, that he sunk from his seat in a swoon, so as he was fain to be conveyed by his Nobles to bed, where he lay by the space of three days without speech. His commons were as men in despair, so diversely distressed; there was nothing but mourning and lamentation to be heard throughout ●…ll Cyprus: their virtuous Queen bereft of her life▪ their King and Sovereign in great hazard: this tragical discourse of Fortune so daunted them, as they went like shadows, not like human creatures: yet somewhat to comfort their heavy hearts, they heard that Amasias was come to himself, and had recovered his speech, who as in a fury reached at a Rapier to have killed himself; but his Peers being present, stayed him from such a bloody act: persuading him to think, that the common wealth consisted on his safety, and that those sheep could not but perish, that wanted a shepherd, wishing that if he would not live for himself, yet he should have care of his Subjects, and to put such fancies out of his mind, sith in sores past help, salves do not heal, but hurt, and in things past cure care is a corasive. With these and such like pe●…swasions the King was overcome, and began somewhat to quiet his mind, so that as soon as he could go abroad, he caused his wife to be embalmed, and wrapped in lead, erecting a rich and famous Sepulchre wherein ●…e ent●…bed her, making such solemn obsequies at her funeral, as al●… Cyprus might perceive that he 〈◊〉 did bewail her death. Amasias notwithstanding would once a day repair to the tomb, and there with watery complaints deplore his misfortune, coveting no other companion but sorrow, nor any other harmony but grief. But leaving him to his dolorous passions, let us come to Eliosto his son, being the chief cause of the description of this history. This Eliosto being fourteen years old, was no less finely shaped, then sweetly demeanoured, a pattern of such perfection, as is seldom found in earthly substance. But s●…th I cannot fully express his feature, I will rehearse unto you the description of him couched by a Cyprian pen man in a brief Ode, a conceit well known to all Shepherds, and by them oft recited▪  

The description of Eliosto in an Ode.  

Ganymede the Idaean Boy,  
Second glory of the day:  
phrigia's wonder, father's joy.  
Love's content, joves wishful prey.   

Blyth Adonis, Beauty's treasure,  
Venus' darling, Fancies fire:  
In whose looks were heav'nes of pleasure,  
Fruit too fowl of fair desire.   

Both these would, though both were rare,  
Both the mirrors of their time,  
Blush if they should make compare,  
With this wonder of our clime.   

In whose eyes Love lodged 〈◊〉 darts,  
But he did with glances aim them,  
That he might subdue all hearts,  
And his own by conquest claim them.   

Such his face, such is his stature,  
Locks resembling burnished gold,  
That his like astonished nature,  
Framed not since of earthly mould.   

Nature at herself amazed,  
O what influence then did guide her!  
Sith in want such worth was blazed,  
Worth which heavens have since 〈◊〉 her.   

May not then this l●…vely boy,  
For he is a lovely creature,  
Well be termed our Cypr●…s joy▪  
Blest in bearing such a feature?   

Well he may, and if not he  
Who shall then our wonde, be?    
Such and so many were his perfections, that he could not fully describe them, much less I discover them: he was affected of many, and admired of all; Shepherds doted on him, Lasses drooped for him, all liked him; for who could not love him? It is the custom of the inhabitants of Famagosta, to rest in some shade when summers scorching heat annoys them: being shrouded from the Sun, they spend the time in discoursing upon their own, or their fellows fortunes, Shepherds I mean, men of their own profession, whether native in Cyprus or no, as in memorizing the worth of Philoclea, praising the perfections of Phyllis, lamenting the loss, commending the loyalty of Amyntas, mourning for the death, yet misliking the disdain and pride of Amaryllis, pitying the distress of the forlorn Shepherd, the unhappy admirer, though happy herald of her worth. But if Eli●…sto by hap came by, as oft he did, they would abruptly break off these discourses, and follow him greedily, gazing on so glorious an object. Nor was this uniformity of affections only in human hearts; for the rural powers were touched with like sympathy. Pan sighed to see him, remembering by him his Syrinx, though of another sex. The Hamadryads flocked to view him, wishing him one of their troup: Fauns, Sylvans, satires, seldom seen before, were oft beheld by men, while they left the hallowed groves, to gaze in the open fields on that eye-Syren, alluring not with the sound, but at the sight. But as no extreme is durable, so too soon to break off the knot of this exceeding comfort, see what ensued.  
Amasias having now through tract of time, sufficiently digested his sorrows, lived in his Court, no less accompanied with the most honourable, then beloved of the most virtuous; where finding that humours were no honours, and time lost could never be recovered, thought good at the earnest persuasions of his Peers, to enter again into the lists of marriage: which thing being known, many Princes of jonia and of Europe, desirous to insert themselves into so royal a kindred, and to have interest in so noble a family, offered their daughters with large portions. But only the Prince of Lemnos sped in his ●…ute, whose alliance the King accepted, as being a man noble in deed, graced with all ornaments which Nature might afford, or Virtue challenge. His daughter also named Cleodora, was a creature endued with such ornaments of the body, graced with such qualities of the mind, that it seemed Nature and Virtue concurring in one, had conspired to make her a peerless proofe-peece of their united perfections; and though Fortune fretting at their favours so largely bestowed, sought to cross their courtesies with her cruelties; yet ●…ould s●…e not at that time, blemish the bright-shining wor●…h of so famous a wonder. But as a small cloud in a clear day may somewhat s●…aine, though not wholly stop the suns light: so Fortune's malice, did rather darken then drown her merits, in whose Ivory brows, Chastity sat enthronizde, as guardian of her looks, Modesty teinting her cheeks with a vermi●…ian die of Virgin-redmaiden blushes, emblazond her a map of mirrors. Majesty which beauty claimed, birth challenged, love commanded, guided her gestures with such decent proportion, as juno wanted in the pride of her glory, and Minerva in the prime of her pomp. These gifts, these g●…ories did so unluckily (as the sequel will manifest) enchant, enthrall, enforce Amasias, that having scarce vi●…wed her, he vowed her his own: such deep impressions were wrought in his affections. To be brie●…e, the parties were resolved to give Love his right, and so married they were honourably.  
For that purpose the Cyprian King sent Heralds to all the Isles adjacent, and Provinces situate in the main of Greece, which published in his name, leave and liberty of access to all whomsoever, especially strangers of account which did repair to his Court, and were present at his nuptials, and honoured him in such prince like exercises, as did best beseem the worth of that intended solemnity. Besides a troup of meaner persons, the most worthy Heroes of Greece appeared at the appointed time; and being present at the ceremonies of Hymen's rights, gave honourable testimony of their performance.  
Forth with many honourable sports and deeds of chivalry were exercised; in which, Eliosto was chief challenger, suited in purest white, mounted upon a milk white Courser, richly caparrasoned. These second solemnities thus finished, the Lemnian Prince and other strangers departed, bruiting an honourable report of the Cyprian Courts royalty.  
This married couple for two years living in a league of united virtues, safely floated in the seas of security, and bathed themselves in the streams of bliss; they were not daunted with any dread, because they saw no present danger; they thought that the sea being calm, there could come no tempest; that from the clear air, could ensue no storms; that quiet ease was not the mother of dissension, and that, were Fortune once tuned, in the strings could never be found any discord. But they at length tried, though by haples●…e experience, that when Nilus filleth up his bounds, ensueth a dearth; when the Angelica is laden with most seed, than he dieth; when music was heard in the Capitol, than the Romans were plagued with pestilence; when Circe's proffered most gifts, she pret●…nded most guile; and that when Fortune had deprived them of most care, than she meant to drown them in the greatest calamity: so she thinking to give them the Mate, began thus to proffer the Check.  
There chanced to be in his Court attendant upon a Noble woman, a proper piece, named Florinda, who by birth was but the daughter of a Knight, but by beauty seemed to be a heavenly creature. Now the destinies so ordered the matter that the king by chance cast a look upon this gorgeous goddess, and at the first view was so vanquished by vanity, that he thought his l●…fe no longer pleasant unto him, then when he was in her sight, and failed not daily familiarly to frequent the Mistress commpanie, for the maids cause. And having attempted her chastity, by showing her his great good will, by bestowing on her gifts, by large promises of preferment, and many other means; nevertheless, missing of his purpose at that time (for as yet she stood at defiance with incontinency) in pensive perplexity, fell at parley with himself, to this purpose. Why Amasias (quoth he) art thou so squeamish that thou canst not see wine, but thou mu●… surfeit? Canst thou not draw nigh the fire and warm thee, but thou must with Satyrus kiss it and burn thee? Art thou so little master of thy aflections, that if thou gaze on a Picture, thou must with Pygmalion be passionate? Canst thou not pass through Paphos, but thou must offer incense to Venus? Dost thou think it injury to Cupid to look, if thou dost not love? Ah, fond fool, know this, fire is to be used, but not to be handled; the Baaran flower is to be worn in the hand, not chawed in the mouth; the precious stone Echites is to be applied outwardly, and not to be taken inwardly; and beauty is made to feed the eye, not to fetter the heart. Wilt thou then swallow up the bait which thou knowest to be bane? Wilt thou hazard at that, which can not be had without harm? No, stretch not too far, wade not too deep, violate not the rites of matrimony, impeach not thy faith plighted to Cleodora, use beauty, but serve it not, shake the tree, but taste not of the fruit, lest thou find it too hard to be digested. Why, but Beauty is a god, and will be obeyed, Love looketh to command, not to be conquered: juno strove but once with Venns, and she was vanquished: jupiter resisted Cupid, but he went by the worst; it is h●…rd for thee with the Crab to swim against the stream, or with the Salamander to strive against the fire: for in wrestling with a fresh wound, thou shalt but make the sore more dangerous. Can Beauty (fond fool) be resisted, which makes the gods to bow? Love himself yielded to the feature of Psyche, and thinkest thou thy fancy to be of greater force? But Amasias, if thou wilt needs love, use it as a toy to pass away the time, which thou may est take up at thy lust, and lay down at thy pleasure. Love! why Amasias dost thou dream, whom shouldest thou love? Flori●…da? what thy servant? no sure thou art not so fond. And with that, as he uttered these words, such thoughts, such sighs, such sobs, such tears as●…ailed him, as he was stricken dumb with the extremity of these hellish passions, scarce able to draw his breath for a good space, till at last recovering his senses, he fell to his former sorrow in this ●…ort.  
I ever heretofore thought a Prince's life to be void of contention, and that they had always passed their time in pleasure wi●…hout moles●…ation, but now I s●…e we are as soon exposed to sorrow as the meanest subject we have. Likewise be●…ore this, I was o●… opinion, that the number of friends, abo●…nding in riches, continuing in health, and such like things which pertain to the body, were sufficient to attain to felic●…tie in ●…his life: but now I see, it is the mind that maketh mi●…th, and stirreth grief; yea, the contented mind is the only riches, the only quietness, the only happiness. Good God how unsavoury seem those sweet meats unto me, wherein I was wont to delight? how unpleasant are the s●…orts wherein I was wont to take pleasure? how co●…bersome is the company, which was wont to content me? no game pleaseth me, no triumphs, no shows, no hawking, no h●…nting, yea, nothin●… under the Sun doth solace me. And would I know the cause why I have not a contented mind? The exquisite pa●…ts of Florinda do so diversely distract my mind, that only her sight is sweet, only her society is comfortable, only her presence is delightful unto me: the reason is, in her the Fates have fixed my happiness; in her the heavens have laid up my felicity; her company I must enjoy, and without it I must die. Here upon betaking himse●…e to his meditations, he framed a Letter to Florinda, to this effect.  
Amasias to the fairest Florinda, health.  
Such, and so extreme are the passions of love (Florinda) that the more they are quenched by Disdain, the greater flames are increased by Desire; and the more they are galld with hate, the more they gape after love: like to the stone Tapozon, which being once kindled, burneth most vehemently in the water. I speak this (the greater is my grief) by proof and experience: for having my heart scorched with the beams of thy beauty, and my mind inflamed with thy singular virtue, neither can thy bitter looks abate my love, nor thy extreme discourtesy diminish my affection. No, Florinda, it fareth with me, as with the herb Basill, the which the more it is crushed, the sooner it springeth; or the pure spice, which the more it is pouned, the sweeter it smelleth; or the Camomile, which the more it is trodden with the feet, the more it flourisheth: so in these extremities, beaten down to the ground with disdame, yet my love reacheth to the top of the house with hope. Sith then, Florinda, thy beauty hath made the sore, let thy bo●…ntie apply the salve; as thy virtue hath caused my malady, so let thy mercy give the medicine; repay not my constancy with cruelty, requite not my love with hate, and my desire with despite, lest thou procure my speedy death, and thy endless infamy. Thus hoping thou wilt have some remorse of my passions, I attend thy friendly sentence, and my fatal destiny.  
Thine ever, though never thine, Amasias.  
As soon as he had written his Letter, he dispatched a Messenger as privily as might be, who speedily delivering his Embassage, was willed by Florinda to expect an answer; who ruminating upon the contents of his Epistle, being incited by sordid preferment, she thought by his approved loyalty, that her maidenly modesty was sufficiently strained: and therefore, after a sort, was at length willing, after long warding and awarding his waster, to afford him the vennie. For who knows not (quoth she) that this Hawk which comes now so fair to the fist, may to morrow check at the Lure. Having said this, she wrote as hereafter followeth.  
Florinda to Amasias, health.  
THou hast followed fast, Amasias, and kept me long at a bay, which maketh me willing now at length to obey, and yield a branch of Laurel, as ensign of thy conquest; for this thy meed doth merit both Nobility and Courtesy. Certes, thy feature is neither crooked nor crabbed; as for thy beauty, I will not, or at least I cannot signify how gracious it is in my sight; but scarce any cold Satirist can avoid burning at the influence of so warm a S●…nne: both these bids me a base, and I am ready to meet thee in the midway, when lo Reason steps in, and stops me running, intercepting my rashness, lest too soon I might curse my incepted course. If I have been reckless of thy good will I repent me, if ruthless through cruel speeches, I recant them, as one loving now that which of late I loathed, and desiring that which even now I despised; which as often as I call to mind, I cannot but blush to myself for shame, and fall out with myself for anger. But the purest Diamond is to be cut before it be worn; the Frankincense is to be burnt before it be smelled, and Lovers are to be tried before they be trusted, lest shining like the Carbuncle, as though they had fire; being touched, they prove passing cold: f●…r the mind by trial once scoured of mistrust, becometh more fit ever after for belief: so that Amasias, as I have pined thee with bitter Pills, I will now pamper thee with sweet Potions; as I have galled thee with cruelty, I will heal thee with courtesy. But I would you should think that it is not advancement that winneth me thus willingly to your will, for I know it is odious, but it is your exceeding love towards me, (O noble Prince) that linketh my liking with yours; it is your incomparable courtesy which forceth me to yield the fort of my faith into your hands. For as the Sun, the higher it doth ascend in the Firmament, the more heat it doth extend to the earth: so Virtue and Courtesy, in the more ●…igh and princely person it is placed, the more force it hath to win the wills, and bind the hearts of the people to embrace it. To conclude, short will be thine abode with me, and more sharp thine abandoning of me: then shall I be le●…t like see●…y Sapph, or for lost Phyll●…s, a game to my foes, & a shame to my friends. The Ivy with her embracings suffocateth the Elm; the kind Ape with her folding arms killeth her young ones; but if thou according to thy soothest, and smoothest protestations lovest me be not causer of my casualty. And thus committing my life and living into your hands, I attend thine answer, and rest more thine than her own.  
Florinda.  
This Epistle came to Amasias as acceptable as metamorphosed jupiter, creeping into ' Danae's lap: for surely this was gold to the King, as that a golden shower to Danaë. After this, there passed many pleasant lines between them, neither did Amasias write s●…pithily, but Florinda answered as prettily; for if he were fain, she was fervent; if he could not digest delay, she could not but detest the cause that kept him away: each performed their devout orisons for their lucky loves, each thought Fortune to be f●…owning, and the Fates adverse; they termed Venus very sleepy, and sluggish, because she heard not their prayers, or else was over hard in not granting their requests. Thus sitting together in the sympathy of their pains and almost sinking in t●…e sea of their passions, they desired a thing no less difficult than dangerous, hard to be acted and of hazard to be effected: they both wished a parley, which could not be compassed without some inconvenience●…: for never was the dread●…ull Dragon such a guardian to the Hesperideses Gardens; never Argos so ●…harie of his injunction, as Florinda●… Mistress was wary in watching her Maid: but to what end? She 〈◊〉 end her life, as amend her lewdness. Neither was this fault peculiar to this particular only, but the folly o●… all men in general: it is as well others fury, as it was her frenzy, to overlook that which maugre their beards will away. No, no, they may not strain that string to their own tune, which being stubborn will not once stretch; they may not restrain her madness, who rega●…deth not her own chastity, were they as quick sighted as Eagles, as subtle as Serpents.  

Non mentem servare potes ●…icet omnia claudas,  
Omnibus exclusis intus adulter erit.   

Though all things you can tame, and captivate,  
And bring in compass of subjection;  
Yet will the Mind disdain rebuke, and hate  
What shall suppress her fond affection.   
Danaë would neither regard the diligent watch which attended upon her, nor the brazen Castle that warded her, but became more loose both of her lips and lap, than Penelope assayed by many suitors, yet observed by no overseers. The Coltmost rageth, the more he is reined up; the river than streameth, the more it is stopped, and an unchaste woman narrowly watched, becomes more wilful, she is sharpest set, when she is surest beset, yea, when she is most h●…ndred from vice, she most hasteth unto vanity. For Florindi perceiving squinteyed mistrust to keep sentinel at her Chamber door, and quicke-sented suspicion to follow her footing, ready to trip her least treading awry, hanged her wits on the teinter hooks, till she might rack out some sleight to hoodwink her Mistress with a cows biggin. To be brief, the time of their meeting was appointed on the third day following, but two days seemed so long and loathsome, so tedious, yea, and so intolerable, that they thought two years to have passed before the prefixed hour was present. Which Amasias finding true, to deceive the tediousness of the day, would go to bed with the Lamb, and rise with the Lark; yet would the night seem loathsome: he would spend the day in courting Ladies, and discoursing of love; yet he deemed every minute a month, till Red-rose fingered Aurora appearing with grey hairs, all be-dangled with silver dew, gave a watchword to glorious Phoebus, who rousing himself from his watery Couch, crowning his golden locks with a Diadem of Chrysolite, mounted up lofty Olympus, and newly peeped and appeared in our Harrison, when lo, Amasias, pushing at his Mistress Chamber door, which by good chance flew open, and granted him wished passage, saw his dearest Florinda, who was then working an handkirchiefe with black Silk and Gold: about whose snowy neck folding his arms, they passed the time away with such delightful sports, and new conceived joys, as either their minds might wish to have, or their souls desire to see. But Amasias knowing time to be beneficial unto him, yet not too bountiful; to be large, yet not over liberal, ending delay, and beginning to dally; first he set forth his foot, first he offered to give the onset and assault, neither by force did he first endeavour to take that fort, but by fair means; he required and requested the fruit of his love and labours: the Gentlewoman waged the matter with words, which indeed are women's best weapons, saying that she had more care of her credit, and regard of her honour then so to shake hands with honesty; that she never passed any such promise unto him, neither did he ever crave any further courtesy than her company, or at the most a kiss, whereby finding occasion, she sealed the same with her bright sanguine lips, saying that now she had given him his desired guerdon: to which Amasias smiling, replied after this manner.  
Either my arrival in this place is suspected, or not suspected; if suspected, certes the outwardmost is suspected, if not suspected, neither will this be revealed. Nay cut off my head (quoth he) if now I reap not the fruit of my hope. ay, but it is sin said Florinda. Sin, quoth he? It is sin, not to swallow in delights, dangling at our lips. it is sin to abstain from pleasure, if that only may preserve our life: Yet would I not preserve my life by doing wrong answered Florinda. Nay, thyself erst did dost say (quo●…h Amasias) that thou we●…t mine by right: therefore where are now your weak reasons? weak they were God-wote, and scarce currant: but let me see whether yourself be as stout to resist, as your gentle persuasions were substantial to make me desist. This being said, Amasias, as it best beseemed Amasias offered her gentle violence, and violent gentleness, which as some say, seldom comes to women unaccepted: she again for fashion's sake combated, but willing to be conquered; for indeed, ere long, Amasias road in triumph: and which some men may marvel at, he behaved himself like Hydra, whose necks pared off with the heads, were renewed with two in each place: like Anteus by each fall gathering more force; or as the stone of Thracia, which dipped in water to be cooled, waxeth most fervent. After this Florinda feasted him with as dainty and delicate dishes, as herself could devise, whereunto wanted no V●…num Cos, the Whetstone of his fortitude. Which done, Amasias thanking his goddess for his entertainment, they both took their leave, as though they had lost their lives, especially Florinda, who often wring him by the wrists, with her whitest hands kissed him as if her heart had desired to meet with his, and his soul to join with hers: and thence betaking herself into a window, like the fairest garden flowers, which beholding the departure of gladsome Phoebus to his purple bed, whose being, erst was their light and life, some hanging down their heads as deprived of all pleasure, and others more erecting up their lofty and leavy crests, strive to enjoy his sweet sight so far as po●…sible they may: so Florinda now parched aloft to possess his beloved sight, as far as her watery eyes could suffer, and now again hung down her head in her bofome, as not able to sustain to behold his departure.  
Now Amasias ever after was so wedded to the vain suppose of pleasure, and delight, that his Peers sorrowed at the course of his unbridled follies, and his subjects groaned not under the burden of his covetous desires, but were taxed with the grief of his voluptuous appetite; for such was the incontinency of his life, as satiety of wanton affections never glutted his mind with content: but as the Serpent Hydaspis, the more he drinketh, the more he is a thirst, and as the Salamander, the more he lieth in the fire, the more desirous he is of the flame: so Am●…sias the more he offended in this intemperate concupiscence, the more his thoughts were addicted to the vice, insomuch as every man did wish he might fall headlong into the Centre of some deep misfortune.  
Wallowing thus in the self conceit of his wickedness, his ●…ife Cl●…odora, through over much impatience, not sufficiently commanding his constancy, or greatly moderating his affections, began palpably to feel extraordinary passions within her to be predominant: For fond Affection like a heady ruler, possessing the chiefest portion of her interests, overruled her more honest resolutions, at the entertainment of incestuous lust. Which when she most evidently perceived, for the better effecting of her purpose, manifested her grief unto a damsel, whom she had brought w th' her out of Lemnos, and in whose confidence she reposed much. Lucilla (for so was the maid named) being upon a day in her Mistress chamber, seeing that beyond measure she was melancholy, and that her health not a little impeached through sorrow, strained modesty, and with these words interrupted her mournings.  
Ah Cleodora, more loved of me then mine own life, and more dear unto me then myself, would God I might be plagued with all earthly diseases, so I might see thee free from distress: how can Luc●…lla be without sorrow, to see Cleodora oppressed with sickness? how can she but sink in calamity, to see her but once touched with care? alas, unfold unto me thy sore, and I will add the means to apply the salve; make me privy to thy malady, and I will procure a medicine. The regard which ever since my first being with you, I have had of your welfare, I had rather leave it to your consideration, then with the rehearsal of it, but weary your patience. Which endeavours of mine, if your Majesty shall recompense with advertisement of your grief, I will not only study to procure your contentment by my industrious, resolutions, but myself also not a little satisfied, shall rest in great security. Alas (quoth the Queen) it is not unknown, not only to us, but to the whole Kingdom, how my Lord, seduced by the flattering allurements of strumpets, hath not only violated the law of our gods, in profaning my nuptial bed, made sacred by the holy law of matrimony; but also the law of Cyprus, which utterly forbiddeth such disorder and wanton actions. But sith in a Monarchy the wills of Princes may bide no check, but their reasons (howsoever unreasonable) are the principles that may not be infringed, it resteth only for me to complain, but not to redress, lest venturing too far, I set my rest on the hazard, and so desperately throw at all. What Madam, (answered Lucilla) have you no other cause to disquiet yourself, than the foolish love of the King? Truly this is a very small occasion, and a cause more than frivolous, after this manner to vex yourself; remove away these dolorous passions, and endeavour to live joyfully with those, amongst whom your reputation and credit shall be honourable: attending till Time shall cool his ardent desires, and enforce him to change his affections, with this proviso; that by unlawful acquaintance, your honour likewise be not depraved. Indeed, replied the Queen, the whole can with facility minister counsel to them that are sick; but if thou didst but feel that distemperature which permitteth me to take no rest in my mind, and the cause of the anguish that doth deprive me of sense, I am assured, that having pity upon me, thou wouldst otherwise comfort me, or else help to execute that, which should serve for the entire solace and contentment of my spirit. The King hath led this life a long time, and it is now impossible, but by death or extremity of age, he should alter it: in the mean while, I pass my time away in vain, no ways comforted, which maketh my grief seem more intolerable. Lucilla perceiving without casting of her water, where she was pained, shaped her this reply. For mine own part Madam, as yet I never had experience of what force Love is: and therefore ignorant of the disdain and sorrow, which such as you are sustain: yet nevertheless I verily believe, that the passion both of the one and the other is so great and unmeasurable, that the surplusage of the alterations that trouble and mole●…t the spirit, is nothing in respect of this inexplicable distress. But I behold and perceive the imbecility of human minds, and how soon, through unlawful desires, they are disquieted; which, with no less tranquillity, are digested in the stomach and thoughts, than the sea sands, when they are encountered with the tumultuous blasts of powerful Bor●…as. Ah Madam, where is the great chastity that made you once more renowned than all the Ladies in Lemnos? I beseech you labour to contain yourself in that honest estimation wherein hitherto you have lived, to the great content, both of your parents, and friends. But if Reason be curbed by incontinency, and that you deliberate to follow the vice of wantonness for the accomplishment of your desires, then by all means let diligent regard in such sort intimate secrecy, that neither the house from whence you are descended, be dishonoured, nor yourself merit infamy, or ignominious punishment.  
While they were thus talking, a page brought word that diverse Ladies were come to visit the Queen, which caused them to sur●…ease their talk. When the Lady's salutations were ended, and Cleod●…ra again left to her cogitations, she could not feel one minute of such ease as was requisite: for vn●…essantly she rolled the stone with Sisyphus, turned the wheel with Ixion, and filled the bottomless tub with Belides: in so much, that when she could find no means to mitigate her malady, she fell into these bitter complaints.  
Ah Cleodora, ah wretched Cleodora, how art thou without reason, which sufferest reason to yield unto appetite, wisdom to sensual will, and a free mind unto servile love: but I perceive when the Ivi●… ris●…th, it wreatheth about the El●…e; when the Hop groweth high, it hath need of a pole; and when virgins wax in years, they follow that which belongeth to their youth. Love, love, y●…a but they love, expecting some good hap, & alas, both love and live without all hope: for Eliosto is my son; and yet if he were not, he liketh not me. Sith then (Cleodora) thou art pinched, and hast none to pity thy passions, dissemble thy affection, though it shorten thy life: For better it were to die with grief, then to live with shame: The sponge is full of water, yet is not seen; the leaf of the tree Alpina, though it be wet, looks always dry; & a wise lover, be she never so much tormented, behaves herself; as though she were not touched. Yea but fire cannot be hid in the flax without smoke, nor musk in the bosom without smell, nor love in the breast without suspicion. Then seek some means to manifest thy love to Eliosto, for as the stone Draconites can by no means be polished, unless the Lapidary burn it; so thy mimd can by no medicine be cured, unless Eliosto ease it.  
Thus resolved without longer stay, she called unto her, Lucilla her chief attendant, who from her infancy had been brought up with her. In this Lucilla, she conceived her greatest hope, unto whom she said: Lucilla, since I had reason to discern good from evil, thou knowest how I have tendered thee, and how willing I would be to seek thy preferment, make trial when thou please, so shalt thou be assured of that, which justly thou mayst hold in suspense. But leaving these conjuring words, I must (Lucilla) commit unto thy secrecies, a matter of import, whereon my honour and reputation dependeth: for I tell thee Lucilla, I have made choice of thee amongst all those which I may command, as of her I love, and have best cause so to do, having had such society, else should I rather choose to die ten thousand deaths, then reveal it.  
Luci●…la which had her whole hope of good from the Queen, hearing her speeches, with tears standing in her eyes, proceeding of joy, for the honour done her by the Queen, protested unto her by heaven's Maker, and what else he framed, to be secret in her determinations, and do her best endeavour to accomplish whatsoever she commanded. Cleodora taking her word for currant, in whom she never found deceit, said: Lucilla, that it is incident to all creatures in their kind to love, I know thy wits be not so simple, but thou canst conceive; and he that made us, directeth our like as best pleaseth him, be it Prince or Beggar, from the highest to the simplest: and he my Lucilla, hath linked my liking (albeit extraordinarily) to a most brav●… Gentleman (on whom I think) if Affection, which is blind, deceive me not, is worthy to be favoured of the most beautiful. To keep thee with idle speeches, is now no time, having other matters enough whereon we must discourse; therefore, that thou mayst know to whom my love is intended, Eliosto my son is he; Eliosto, famous for his valour, renowned for his bounty, and admired for his courtesy. He, he, Lucilla, is the joy of my heart, and my hearts sole delight, without whom I cannot live, nor I will not live, neither may I live, such is the service which my heart hath vowed in love unto him: therefore if thou love me as thou hast professd, by thy industry seek to save my life, which cannot but perish in not obtaining my desires.  
Lucilla, listening to her discourse, willing to become second in this tragedy, had her brains already beaten in the search of the charge committed unto her, yet would she not sodain●…ly answer any thing, Considering how displeasing speeches spoken out of time, be to lovers, corrosives: yet cheeering the Queen, she requested until the next morning respite for answer, which willingly she granted, affying greatly in her, whose j●…dgement above all others she esteemed most sound and perfect: whom to her study we leave.  
Eliosto, by reason of the affable countenance, and courteous usage wherewith daily she did gratify him, had his entrails so fried with the scorching flames of his metho●…s beauty (O unspeakable wickedness!) that his colour was ch●…nged, and his stre●…gth impaired, and he, through great grief ●…nd extremity of his love, enforced to withdraw himself into his Chamber, where casting himself on his bed, with a million of careful thoughts, he determined to seek her favour, and then, by contrary motions, fearing the success of his suit, by reason of affinity, which might give cause of great dislike and disparagement thereof, said:  
Ah thrice unfortunate Eliosto, what strange fits be these that burn thee with heat, and yet thou shakest with cold? thy body in a shivering sweat, and in a flaming ice, melting like wax, and yet as hard as Ada●…ant: Is it love? then would it were death, for likeher it is thou shalt lose thy life, then win thy Love. Ah ha●…lesse Cleodora! would to God thy virtues were less than thy beauty, or my virtues greater than my affections; so should I either quickly free myself from fancy, or be less subject unto folly. But alas, I feel in my mind fierce sk●…rmishes between Reason and Appetite, Love and Wisdom, Dang●…r and Desire; the one persuaded him to hate the Queen, becaus●… his father's wife, the other constrained him to love her as a friend. If I consent to the first, I end my days with death; if to the last, I shall lead my life with infamy. What shall I then do? Ah Eliosto, either swallow the juice of Mandrake, which may cast thee into a dead sleep, or chew the herb Carysium, which may cause thee to hate every thing; so either shalt thou die in thy slumber, or dislike Cleodora by thy potion. Tush, what follies are these? Wil●… thou with the Wolf bark at the Moon, or with the young Gr●…phons peck against the stars? Thinkst thou to quench fire with a sword▪ or with affection to mortify love? No, no, if thou be wise, suffer not the grass to be cut from under thy feet, strike while the iron is hot, make thy market while the chaffer is to sa●…e.  
Eliosto b●…ing thus resolute in his opinion, began to cast beyond the Moon, and to frame a 〈◊〉 devises in his h●…ad to bring his purpose to pass, fearing every shadow, doubting every wind, stumbling at the least straw; yet at the last pricked forward by fancy, he purposed not to omit the least occasion, which he thought would redound to his content. Fortune, who had long spurned at him with her foot, gave him this opportunity to raise him, whom she had like to have overthrown, chaunci●…g to look out at a window ●…hich opened into a Park belonging to the Court, he espied the Queen, pleasantly passing away the time with her train of Ladies, which opportunity he was not wil●…ing to lose, but with all such speed as his faint legs could make, revived by the sight of his sweet chase, with all sails spread, in short time he recovered his wished desire, who was no sooner of Cleodora seen, his humble duty done, and she having requited the same, giving him the time of the day, with a most pleasant and friendly countenance, she challenged him of negligence, whom in two or three days she had not seen, and leading him politicly, pretending matter of importance, to impart unto him, from the company, she broight him near the side of a fair copesse, which so overshadowed them, that the Sun beams could no ways be offensive unto them, where they might both boldly say whatsoever it pleased them, without being heard or seen of any, whose presence might interrupt their conference, which caused her to take opportunity to discuss with him thus.  
Son (quoth she) I pray thee say, of the duty which thou hast vowed me, and by those sweet thoughts which are best pleasing unto thee, what is the Lady to whom thou hast dedicated thy love? For love doubtless thou dost, thy countenance bewrayeth it, which I have noted with more regard than becometh me; yet of care to thee whose health I tender, for thy courtesy and good service done, which I would requite in the best manner I might; and for because thy looks show that thy heart craveth to be pitied of thy Lady, let me know her, who may chance stand thee in some stead; for women may prevail much with one another.  
Eliosto wrapped into a heaven of joys, hearing the goddess of his devotion, with such favour and kindness to grace him, with a blushing countenance standing at the bar before her, whose sentence p●…onounced, was either li●…e or death, said. Honourable and gracious Madam, That I love I cannot deny, which argueth your skill in physic to be great; but if your highness could judge whose love I most adore, and love have, and judging, ease me, I should have cause to say, no Aesculapius on the earth whatsoever, might stand in comparison with you for skill: I dare say no more, fearing to offend.  
The Queen all this while gazed on the perfection of her Son, as deeply enamoured on his feature, as he inveigled with hers; for her eye made a general survey of his excellent proportion, which she found more exquisite, by how much the more she had bend her liking to love him.  
Thus Affection which had assailed both their hearts, endued them with such a sympathy of content, beholding themselves all alone, that with overmuch joy, they were stricken mute, so that how much soever ●…heir hearts desired, to let each other know their loves, they could not reveal the same. In this heaven of happiness they had not long been, but a Lady that attended the Queen, brought her word the King was coming into the Park, which place he had chosen to recreate himself, where resting on a hill that over-peered the great Mediterrane●…m, he noted how Phoebus fetched his Lavoltoes on the Purple plains of Neptunus, as if he had meant to have courted Thetis in the royalty of his Robes, the Dolphins (●…he sweet conceitors of Music) fetched their careers on ●…he calmed waves, as if Arion had touched the strings of his silver-sounding Instrument: the Mermaids thrusting their h●…ades from the bosom of Amph●…rite, sat on the mounting banks of Neptu●…e, drying their watery tresses in the Sunbeams: he marked likewise how A●…olus forbore to throw abroad his guests on the slumbering brows of the Sea-god, as giving Triton leave to pleasure his Queen with desired melody, and Proteus l●…bertie to follow his flocks without disquiet. Amasias looking over the champain of Cyprus, to see if the continent were as full of smiles as the Seas were of favours, saw the shrubs as in a dream with delightful harmony, and the birds that chan●…ed on their branches, not disturbed with the least breath of a favourable Zephyrus. Seeing thus the accord of the land and sea, casting a fresh gaze on the water Nymphs, he began to consider how Venus was feigned by the Poets, to spring of the froth of the seas, which drove him straight into a deep conjecture of the inconstancy of love, that as if Luna were his lodestar, it had every minute ebbs and tides, sometime overflowing the banks of Fortune with a gracious look, lightened from the eyes of a favourable lover, otherwhiles ebbing to the dangerous shelf of de●…paire, with the piercing frown of a froward Mistress.  
By this time nights dusky mantle shadowing the earth with a darksome coverture, had bewrayed heavens disguise, and the twinkling stars, whose sight the suns brightness doth in the day time obscure, did now plainly appear, while Phoebus reposing in his Palace, waited the dewie-uprising of Aurora, so that the King was for that time constrained to desist his walk. In the mean time, Eliosto, whose extremes were vehement, after his abrupt parting with his mother, grew so melancholy, as that nothing was able to delight him: so that in outrageous manner, he exclaimed on his misfortune, cursing the tidings bringer of the King's repair to the Park, and his tongue, for not revealing his grief, his Physician being so ready to hear, that despairing of his hope, he was likely to mischief himself: yet Reason affirming, That the learnedst Physician could not discover the disease of his patient, without he show it, how near soever he guess. Entering further into consideration of her favourable speeches, shaking off fear, like a hardy Soldier, he determined in writing to let her know his love, since he had no hope to meet her again at the like advantage. Therefore, like the condemned, hoping of pardon, lived Eliosto; yet desirous to be resolved, either of comfort, or despair, he called for pen and ink, and wrote thus.  
To the only mistress of my heart, the most beautiful Cleodora, happiness, and hearts content.  
IF jupiter being a God was vanquished by love, and many mighty monarchs have been forced to seek the love of beautiful Ladies, I have less cause to accuse my fortune, or exclaim against his sovereignty, who hath framed my heart to like and love your excellency: how long I have honoured you only, I omit, and desist to impart the many griefs endured for your sake: Now, as you are by nature pitiful, so vouchsafe to credit the lines of me your sworn servant, and by your favour, reclaim from the gates of death, my soul, which upon denial, is ready to leave her earthly mansion. Therefore peerless Lady, if thou hold the life of thy servant in any regard, grant me thy love, and with thy love, gracious liking; so shall I live to honour thee, or die through thy cruelty. I write not as a Poet, but as a passionate lover of your highness: and therefore if thou dislike these lines, at●…ribute the shortness of my style, to my ardency, which without flattery, hath delivered the sum of my misery, and hope shall be by your gracious courtesy mitigated. So attending your answer, either of life or death, I wish thy joys never to have end, and myself a speedy death, without your liking.  
Your Graces, in life most humble, Eliosto.  
What man living hath either heard or read of such sensual and incontinent designs? such libidinous, and incestuous affection? Thou Hippolyte, for not yielding to the lust of Phaedra thy Stepmother, wast through her false accusation, by thy father, pursued, till the Chario●… wherein thou fleddest, brake, and thou miserably among the sharp stones rend to pieces: but by thy fall, thou hast preserved thy name from black mouthed infamy, who only is delighted with her brazen Trumpet, to sound the harsh tunes of our foul defame: as for thee Elios●…o, whom the Fates likewise have reserved to perpetuity, must with thy licentious Phaedra, abide continually the detestable brand of unspeakable ignominy. But I digress.  
When he had ended these lines, sealed and directed the same, he could not find by many devises which he sought, how it should be brought to his mother's hands: at length, after many and sundry ways invented, this was thought best: calling to mind Lucil●…a the Queen's Maid, which he often noted to be in some regard with her, determined to procure her, either for courtesy, or reward, to deliver it. And very early in the morning, as soon as he could get ready, addressed himself to the Court, attending the coming of his mother thither, as she usually did: but unhappy El●…osto, it ●…ell not out so well with him that day; for the Quee●…e distempered in her thoughts, had her mind so much on love, as she en●…oyed no sleep by night, nor content by day, so that she was enforced with weakness to keep her Chamber, to the great discomfort and grief of all the Ladies. But Cupid which is always benign to them that serve him, brought him this pleasure. It fortuned that Lucilla, with whom eliosto's chief desire was to have some speech, passed into the Garden, either to walk, or for some occasion of the Queens (I know not whether) whom he followed with a fear●…full countenance, more like a novice in Love's school, than any way skilful in such enterprises: yet whet●…ed on by the hopes which his heart conceived, he saluted the Gentlewoman, who was not a little abashed to see the Prince so near her, nor could she judge any cause of his coming unto her.  
Lucilla being willing to hear what he would say, with a face blushing, showing a kind countenance, she inquired of his health, with other ordinary prattle: unto which he answered, and returning her many thanks, said; Mistress Lucilla, though my deserts have never merited favour at your hands, yet let me crave your furtherance in a suit, for that I hear my mother is weak, and not willing to be troubled, so that I cannot attain unto her speech; and beside, my business of importance, compelleth me very shortly to leave the Court, to deliver this Letter into her own hands, and at your leisure to return me such answer, as she shall please to deliver: in doing, which you shall both do me a favour of great esteem, and cause me hereafter, not to wound this your kindness with oblivion.  
The Gentlewoman which did know where the Queen's shoe did wring her, began immediately to conjecture his disease, and to shoot●… at that which indeed she hit without any great aim, supposing the Prince to be wounded with like affection, was glad to become so happy a Messenger to her, who could willingly vouchsafe him as partner of her best fortunes; yet making a kind denial, she said: Sir, though I could willingly do you more service than modesty will I acquaint you with; yet it is not the part of our Country Gentlemen, to make posts of women, having Pages fit for that purpose: if I refuse your request, attribute it to no discourtesy in me, which am very loath to offend her h●…ghnesse, not knowing whether the sentence of your Paper may breed any discontent or no. That many Messengers have incurred displeasure, yea, and loss of life, as the cause hath deserved, I hope it is not unknown unto you, yet hath the harmless bearer known●… as little what he carried, as I desirous to know of you.  
Sweet Lucilla (quoth the Prince) that it is wisdom by others harms to beware, I deny not; yet notwithstanding, it is discourtesy, not to fulfil the request of a Gentleman, which hath evermore showed himself most dutiful unto her Majesty: can I therefore frame my heart to prejudice that Lady of incomparable virtue? No, no, heavens never permit me life, if in the least thought I once offend her.  
Lucilla, noting by the often change of his colour, in telling his tale, that his heart was not his own, but had some more business in hand then willingly he would reveal, loath to move his patience by her denial, answered: Sir, persuading myself of your loyalty, I will for this time become your Ambassador, although it should impair my credit with her Excellence, whose favour I hold as dear as my life: and that you shall assure yourself of my fidelity herein, if you please to meet me in this place to morrow, by that time the Sun's power shall have drawn the dew from off the earth, I shall return you answer as you desire.  
Thanks, good Lucilla, for thy courtesy, assure yourself I will not die in your debt, if ever Eliosto may requite it by any industry. In the mean time (quoth he) favour me so highly, as wear this for my sake: and pulling off a Diamond of great price, gave it her, which she was loa●…h to accept; yet giving him thanks for his kindness, replied. Sir, I prise not my pains, that you should reward me with hire, or do you good, in hope of benefi●…e: for as it is unfitting a Gentlewoman to take gif●…s in such m●…ner bestowed; so is it discourtesy, and no part of womanlike condition, to reject the gift of a friend, therefore accept my thanks until such time I shall better deserve it.  
Thus time passing away, Lucilla taking her leave, went towards the Queen's Chamber, and Eliosto to his lodging, where ministering fuel unto his folly, he began in his imaginations most strangely to be perplexed; for his prophetic soul laid down before him, both the enormity of the fact, and the condign punishment, which always accompanieth such a crime: yet notwithstanding he was so blind with outrageous lust, as that no such sacred s●…ppositions were of force sufficient to reclaim him from his intended resolution: Unto which I leave him.  
Lucilla seriously bethinking herself of these rare and abominable accidents, thought good since they were committed unto her secrecy, to smother them up in silence, lest by their detection, both their safeties utterly might be ruinated. Upon this she came into the Queen's presence, where being of her perceyved, she was demanded where she had spent the time so long from her, knowing that all her attendants, besides herself, were cumbersome. Madame, having been to search some dainty that might yield delight to your weak stomach, and cause better disgesture, by chance prying in the garden for such things, I was encountered by the best Physician in the Dominion of Cyprus, who gave me a receipt, which I judge by my simple skill, will give your Majesty great ease, yet doth the man doubt whether your stomach will digest it, yea or no: this (gracious Lady quoth Lucilla) hath been the cause of my absence, and no other. Alas, good wench, how am I beholding unto thee, that regarding my health, searchest the depth of thy skill! but, Lucilla, in vain seekest thou her redress, which no Physician with all his herbs, drugs, and simples, balms, emplasters, or what Art may provide, can remedy, the gods only by their grace must finish my desires, or give evidence, that life hath left within me the due possession of her field. What Madam, ever in this tune? once alter these discords, which maketh your Music jar, and sing the belief with a cheerful voice, so may your mind be a little eased, and the receipt I have to minister, work with the more effect: I speak this of experience; for every cunning Physician will prepare the body of his patient before he minister any thing; therefore if you will shake off this melancholy, you shall have a taste of what I promise, if not, your Grace must pardon me: it were great pity so precious a thing should be cast away. Well (quoth Cleodora,) thou art disposed to cross me with thy words, which in yielding small comfort, do nothing else but aggravate my disease: therefore leaving these jests, tell me if thou hast aught will do me good, if not, use me no more thus unkindly, lest vanquished with the extremity of my grief, I chance to say that with my tongue which my heart will repent, or exercise my hands in such severity, as shall not beseem my person. The Gentlewoman seeing the wind blow so warm, at the view of the Queen's impatience, feared as much as she promised, thought not good above her strength to move her; for women being by nature hot, upon small occasions, oft times become unreasonable: wherefore making a preamble to her discourse, like an eloquent Orator began thus. (Eliosto) with that word, making a long pause, to note her countenance, on the sudden naming her beloved, was thus interrupted. Eliosto, Lucilla? What frantic humour in this manner causeth thee to nominate him, with whom as yet thou never hadst any conference? Madam (said the Gentlewoman) 〈◊〉 the rest, before you either dislike or commend me; then proceed quoth the Queen.  
This Eliosto (as I am credibly informed) loveth a Lady, but whom I know not, and as a dear friend of his certified me, is so tormented in his passions, that the night naturally ordained for rest, (restless) he consumeth in great discontent; the day wherein all creatures delight, is unto him loathsome, insomuch that through watching, and refusing his diet, his lovely visage, from the sanguine is altered into the yellow coloured saffron; yea, Madam, these mine eyes are witnesses of it, who this day saw him pass into the Court so feeble, that his weak legs could hardly support the weight of his body.  
No more of this Lucilla, lest thy tongue busied too long on this tragedy, I in the mean time be compelled to seek an end of my torments, by dispatching mine own life. Is this thy comfortable confection? Is this the relief thou preachest of, which would yield me such quiet of mind? Why should I live to see another enjoy my love? have I made choice of him, and shall another, no ways worthy of him, enjoy my ●…elicitie? Peace Cleodora, whither rovest thou? let reason subdue rage, let not every one be privy to thy incestuous love, but conceal it as thou mayst, and seek some secret device, by death, which is the best remedy to give contentation to thy heart. But hearken Lucilla, that thou mayest in time, when my body shall be entombed among the dead, report unto my son, how dear I held his love, as my countenance often showed, though he careless of Love's toys, never regarded it; do but this for me, by his friend to learn the Lady's name, with whom Eliosto is so enthralled: this is all the service that ever I will exact of thee, that knowing her, I may become an intercessor for him, whom my heart more desireth then all the world's possessions: With this, tears which trickled down from her optic instruments, restrained her tongue.  
In which sorrowful passion, her Maiden became a partner, and grieved for her folly (which indeed was none) committing so heinous a fault in procuring the same, excused herself in this manner.  
How much I grieve to see you so discomforted, I cannot tell, but relying upon the hope of your graces free pardon, if you vouchsafe to peruse this Letter, you shall know what she is with whom your son is so strangely affected. This Letter I received at his hands, who hearing of your disquiet, desirous (as it should seem) to acknowledge his duty, conjured me by many fair words, and proffers of kindness, to deliver it unto yourself; which albeit for modesty I did long refuse, thrusting that from me with my finger, which I would willingly have drawn unto me with all my body: in the end, I consented, and the rather, for your ladyships quiet, which as I suppose, will bid it welcome for the master's sake; who, if my judgement in the Planet Venus deceive me not, will prove shortly a most rare conjunction, or I will never trust my skill again: for Venus being in the sign of Leo, hath domination over both ho●…ses, viz. He and She, or He and You.  
The Queen when she heard Luci●…aes tale, void of all hope to obtain her beloved Eliosto, after she had awhile pawsd, as one at length awaked from her memento, asfrom a sleep, answered. Now trust me, thou hast cunningly gone about the bush, and hast daintily sought to enter into my deepest secrets: yet how subtly soever you have practised the matter, there may be a quiddity to deceive both thee and him: but I pray thee tell me what speeches used he at the delivery thereof.  
The despairing Prince (good Madam) for so I must call him, howsoever (as it is reported) his valour most worthily shows it sel●…e in field, yet in affection he is most timorous and fearful, in that not daring to reveal the sum of his desires, must commit it to a tell-tale Paper, languishing to the death, wanting his delight, and by silence prolonging his so●…rowes, his looks declaring more than in words he is able to v●…ter. For ●…e that not long since had seen his beauty and gallant grace, the agility of his body, and noted every particular lineament shall now through the pusillanimity of his mind, see a metamorphosis, which may move the most adamantine heart to compassion, the cause to me unknown, but yet suspected. The assurance I doubt not but your Grace will soon understand, if you deign to tear the Seal, and peruse the Contents.  
Cleodora, which thought every minute a year till she had knowledge of her son's mind, put her maiden from her pra●…tle, with a feigned message; when being all alone, with a number of dolorous sighs for the Prince's perplexity, she read, and many times ●…ead those lines which gave her first comfort of enjoying her hearts content. How welcome they were unto her, it may better be imagined then by me explained, whose head was wholly employed in answering the same; for which she thought it not unfit to use the help of Lucilla: wherefore resting from her former studies until her maid came, we leave her to the contemplation of her Love.  
Luci●…la having dispatched her Mistress message, repaired into the Garden, where the consideration of the miserable estate of those two lovers presented unto her mind a confused Chaos of uncouth and disquieted passions; so that sitting in an Arbour, she fell into these ●…ermes. Lucilla, thou seest no physic prevails against the gaze of the Basilisk; no charm against the sting of the Tarantula, no prevention to divert the decree of the Fates; nor no means to recall back the baleful hurt of Fortune: Incurable sores are without Avicens' Aphorisms, and therefore no salve for them but patience. Then Lucilla say with Solon, Croesus is not happy before his death; confess with Saladine King of Egypt, that the prosperous success of Polycrates prognosticated some dire event, that Fortune standeth upon the weathercock of Time, constant in nothing but Inconstancy: for I see well, that to assign happiness to him that lives (considering the alteration that Time and Fortune presents with sundry stratagems) is to allot the reward of victory before the b●…ttaile be fought. The greatest mise●…ie of all, saith Bias, is not to bear misery; and that man is most happy (quoth Dyonisius) that from his youth hath learned to be unhappy. Demetrius surnamed the Besieger, judged none more unhappy than he which never tasted of adversity: for that Fortune accounts of them as abjects and vassals of dishonour, whom she presents not, as well with bitter pills, as sweet potions. Alluding to that saying of Plutarch, that nothing is Evil that is Necessary, understanding by this word Necessary, whatsoever cometh to a wiseman by fatal Destiny; because using patience in necessity, he giveth a greater glory unto virtue. Although these secret meditations were persuasions unto quiet, yet she no sooner cast her eye to the Queen's lodging, but she was overcharged with melancholy: to avoid which, taking her needle in her hand she fell to work, and hearing the pretti●… birds record their sweet and pleasant notes, she warbled out this Madrigal,  

lucilla's Song.  

The stately State that wisemen count their good,  
The chiefest bliss that i●…lles asleep Desire  
Is not dissent from kings and prince●…y blood:  
The royal Crown ambition doth require:  
For birth by fortune is abased down,  
And peri●…es are comprisd within a Crown.   

The Sceptre and the glittering po●…pe of Mac●…,  
The head impalde with honour and renown,  
The Kingly throne▪ the ●…eate and regal place,  
Are toys that fade when angry Fortune frown:  
Content is far from such delights 〈◊〉 those,  
Whom w●…e and danger do envy as foes.   

The cottage seated in the hollow dale,  
That Fortune never fears, because so low:  
The quiet mind that Want doth set to sal●…,  
Sleeps safe when Prince's ●…eates do overthrow:  
Want smiles secure, when princely thoughts do feel,  
That Fear and Danger treads upon their heel.   

The bitter grief that frets the quiet mind,  
The sting that pricks the froward man to wo●…,  
Is Envy, which in honour seld we find,  
And yet to Honour sworn a secret foe:  
Take heed, for Incest is a sugared ill,  
That Fortune lays, presumptuous minds to spill.    
Lucilla had no sooner ended her Madrigale when th'air on a sudden was changed with thunders, and stormy tempests, for that she was forced, through the fear of the lightning, to withdraw herself into the Court, who entering the Queen's chamber, found her newly awakened from sleep, with a more revived colour then before, unto whom the Queen thus spoke. Since thy being with me, I had a dream, that held me all the time of my sleep, the remembrance whereof doth trouble me very much, which as near as I can remember, I will tell thee. Me I thought was going through a thick wood, where were a number of nets and snares laid in every path where should I pass, yet me thought I passed through them so easily, as if they had been of no strength; till at last I came toward a great water, where near unto the shore lay a great boat, and from the boat lay a long line, made all of gold and pearl; within the compass whereof, treading ere I was aware, me thought some thing gave a snatch, wherewith the line whipped about my middle, and carried me into the boat; with the sudden fright whereof I awaked. Now what sayest thou to this dream? Lucilla, no less wittily conceited of her dream, then noting the carriage of her humour, made her this answer. Madame, if a blind body may catch a Hare, I may happen to come somewhat near the exposition of this your fancy. The wood you went in, is the Court, the nets, the eyes and tongues of your well-willers that have no power to take sure hold of your affection; now the great water may be the sea, and the golden Line the young Prince, that may carry your devotion from his father: for if I be not much deceived, he hath you by the heart, whatsoever it was that held you by the middle. Unhappy wench (quoth Cleodora) thou comest too near, that hittest the mark so right; but yet mayst thou be deceived in one point, though not in from other; I have passed the nets, that true; and I am caught, it is not untrue, but that he either will, or shall cancel my love to the King, that I fear will not fall out. But the Gods know all, to whom only will I leave it; Foes may be friends, and kindness where it lighteth, doth more than all the world beside. His presence may please the purest eye, and for his wit, I heard my Lord wonder at it; for his bounty, our Court speaketh of it, and for his virtue, who doth not see it? But for his love, happy is she that shall enjoy it, for princely wisdom, with honourable bounty, shows a divine spirit in an excellent nature, and of such a temper I hold him, and for such a one I love him, and will ever honour him, though I have never the fruition of my desires. But leaving this, I pray thee tell me, what said my son when he delivered these letters unto thee? Madame, to say truth, nothing touching his love▪ but importuned with such earnestness, for the presenting of them unto your hands, as might have made many proud to do so charitable a deed, craving it with words so pitiful, and looks so ruthful. For mine own part, my heart imagining by your affection, that the destinies which caused your grief, had fettered him, and well knowing where love is united, there ones weal is the others good: though I were hardly won to the same, yet at length I undertook the hazard of your good will, promising to return him an answer thereof, wherein, without the grant of your consent I shall break promise. Oh Lucilla, doubtest thou of my consent in answering his kind Letters, for whose sake I have endured so many nights of unrest, and careful days? No Heavens, never favour me with good, if I do not parallel his affection to the utmost of my power. Therefore, as thou hast played the advocate, so make I thee my principal and chief Secretary; peruse these lines, and in equity consider if that his wound deserve not to be tented with pity; then let me see thy skill in inditing, to the which thou shalt have my help. Prorogue no longer the time, hunger is a sharp sauce to those that have good stomachs, and I measuring his desires by mine own, imagine that meat can not be more pleasing to the hungry, than the unexpected tidings of consent, from his new acknowledged love. Soft fire Madam (said Lucilla) makes the sweetst malt, say our housewives: You are far wide; what! no sooner at the style, but over; h●…ste makes waste, look before you leap, lest a block unthoght of chance to break your shins. What if these letters impart his love, how are you thereof assured? men are subtle, & can cast many colours to deceive women; all is not gold that glisters, under the greenest grass lurks the poisoned adder, the crocodile sheades most tears, when he seeketh most to deceive: Try ere you trust Madam▪ repentan●…e comes too late; therefore, howsoever you affect him, conceal it, lightly won, is as lightly lost. The labourer that gameth his money by hard toil, is more chary in parting therewith, than the purloining thief, or the riotous youth, which by subtle practices draweth all he can from his kind parents, to maintain his dissolute expenses, Let him bite on the bridle a while, yet gently line his curb that he g●…ll not: a little thing pleaseth a child, and a good countenance is wo●…rth gold to him that regardeth it as he professeth: weigh your own estate, who is Queen of Cyprus and his mother, with the baseness of the fact: consider what a corrosive this love of yours will be to the king, and if once discovered, with what detestation amongst all men you shall live. I speak this for the disparagement (if it be possible) of his love, and to draw your liking from him; if otherwise, in such sort to temper your affection, that to both your contents you may long enjoy it; and beside, so moderate your looks, that neither the lightness, nor the liberal bestowing thereof may minister to the jealous heads any occasion of mistrust. For princes are great marks, upon whom many eyes are intended: If therefore you are once perceived, what peril either part may procure, your wisdom can best conceive. Thus in duty have I spoken, and delivered a gross advise, which I refer to your graces better consideration. Well hast thou said (quoth the Queen:) but what availeth counc●…ll to a desperate mind? No more than he that seeking to quench the flame, poureth thereinto, oil: Thy good regard hath so ballaunced each inconvenience incident to both our estates, that by no means I am able to requite the speciality of thy good will. Now if thou canst aswell devise how we may enjoy our delight, without which we perplexed can not long endure, what is it that Cleodora shall ever be mistres●…e of, which Lucilla shall not have at her command? Then, as thou tenderest my good, bethink thee of some remedy; for such is my love unto him, as that nothing may extinguish it. Shall I then by writing answer his letters, or no? In this I will be ruled by thee, how gladly soever I wish his comfort, in whom of all earthly creatures, consisteth my happiness. Experience is the best wisdom (said Lucilla:) who would ever have believed loves power to be of such effect, how imperious soever he seemed, had the violence of this attempt in silence been obfuscated! but I am thereby compelled to recant my heresy, and say, Love is a god, or how is it possib●…e he should command Princes? Whereas you have referred the answer of eliosto's letters to me, I was never so void of reason, or so desirous to be your Counsellor, as to take so great a matter upon me, yet shall I (so please it you to hear me) deliver my simple opinion, as I would do myself in the like action. The old wives say, That they which feed with the devil, must have a long spoon: and they that go about to master Love, had need of many good and sufficient precepts: Dissuade your grace (since I am not able) I will not, for I see it is in vain; neither would I wish you to give him his answer by writing; for a paper is soon lost, and lost, unto whose finding it shall come, it is altogether uncertain; as soon the envious enemy, as the well-willer may have the perusal thereof; in which, some word, simply meant of you or me, may be, by them, at their pleasure construed: whereby▪ both a slander (which is not easily suppressed) may be raised, and your name brought into question: Writing is a thing whereof the subtle Lawyer takes no small advantage. To avoid all which casualties, this may you do, pretend some matter of conference with him, and appoint the time, when he at your lodging shall attend you; whither coming secretly, and at such a season, as the king your husband shallbe employed in serious affairs, you may use your speech at your pleasure: This would Lucilla do, your grace may use your discretion. I like thy devise well (quoth Cleodora) therefore fail not to meet him for thy promise sake. Now in faith Madam (said Lucilla) you have made a good choice for a solicitor; but take me as I am, this is the first suit, for which I ever was retained, and I doubt not (if I now speed well) of many cliants. As they were thus pleasant between themselves, they heard, which caused the Queen to send forth her page for the inquiry of the matter; who returned her answer, that the King with his train, were setting forward to hunt a wild Boar which his Foresters had roused: this news gave them cause of joy, hoping that fortune had favoured them with a happy time, which doubting the like opportunity, they were loath to omit. Cleodora especially, who could not be quieted in mind, until she had heard of the Prince's answer; wherefore a Page was presently commanded to search for him, willing him with such convenient speed as he could, to meet Lucilla in the garden: the Page used such diligence, that speedily he was brought unto his presence, whom he found solitary (as a holy father) at his Orisons; whom the Page awaked with his joyful message, which was, (albeit doubtful whether of weal or woe) most welcome unto him. The sudden hearing of which, caused him to pause a while, when having determined, courteously returned answer to the gentlewoman, that he would incontinently attend her. The boy he so bounteously rewarded, as that he had cause to boast himself of his well employed service. Lucilla having received his answer, advertised the Qu. thereof; who commanded her to haste, least by her absence she should give him cause of discontent: but for all her speed, Eliosto was long there before, attending her coming, who was no sooner of him perceived to enter the place, but his heart presaging some good hap, was thence more delighted, then at all the motions that ever could be imagined. After his courteous salutations done, he encountered her thus. Sweet Lucilla, I know not what to imagine of thy sudden message, yet willing to be resolved, as one that by thy answer expecteth his doom either of life or death, I attend thy pleasure: say therefore, what saith the Queen to my letters? Lucilla purposing to be pleasant, yet not to cloy his stomach with such pleasant confections, that there with he should surfeit, but framing her countenance to her speech, she told him, that of all the gentlemen in the Cyprian Court, her good opinion was such of him, that upon his word, she thought she might have hazarded her greatest credit, which expectation of mine being deceived. Thou art not worthy (quoth she) to be accounted among such honourable men at arms, which deem their chiefest reputation to consist in the perseverance of their word to gentlewomen. At the delivery of which, he that had viewed the Prince's countenance, might have supposed him to have been past Physics recovery: and withal, standing so mute, Lucilla was verily persuaded, that he was ready to deliver his life's interest, which made her in altering her words, with a smother method to file them; suspecting that her Comedy begun in mirth, might prove (to the great grief of the whole country, who generally honoured him) a dismal Tragedy. Wherefore taking him by the hand, she said; Sir, I am sorry I have charged you so far, but it is womanlike to be slain with words, and for one of your calling no fit Passion, in such sort to be vanquished. That you may comfort yourself, I first pardon the offence against me committed, and enjoin you, as you tender your credit with the Queen, to repair at such convenient time to her lodging, as you can best: which if you perform, the messenger will be excused. Oh Lucilla, how have thy speeches tormented me, filling my entrails with such a confusion of comfortless thoughts, as have overcome my senses! Yet if thou have any spark of gentility abiding within thee, inform me how the Queen did countenance my bashful paper: vouchsafed she the reading of them? What else (quoth she) for to discomfort you any longer it were pity, being already at so low a datum, which not a little troubles me. Comfort I can give none to thy desires, but this, thy suit is love, as your letters import, in which (albeit unlawful) despair not: for thy mother is a woman, though a Cue & how compassionate our sex is, I will not boast, but wish thee not to diffide; for (since it is inevitable) I will be a faithful solicitor. Mistake me●… not Eliosto, I speak as a friend, and so leave thee, until thy coming to my Lady, which detract not, for time lost▪ is such a precious thing, as that it can again never be recalled Before whom, when thou shalt come, plead thine own cause, and discover thine own grief; but with this caution, always think that whatsoever you go about, your adversaries eyes to be fixed, ready to take any exceptions which may blemish the lustre of your esti●…ation.  
Eliosto, which by these her last words had some greater hope of his content, was so surprised with joy, that he could not bid her farewell: yet after his memento past, farewell (quoth he) the faithfullest friend that ever I found in my distress. Oh Lucilla, happy mayst thou be in thy loves, and highly regarded amongst men, by whom my cares are thus lightened: trusty Lucilla, the worker of my hearts happy content, by whom, past all hope, I am by thy fidelity and truth in delivering my message, freed from such a heavy burden, which was likely to have been my utter ruin. Thus applauding Lucilla, he had almost forgotten his word.  
But leaving further to descant upon this plain song, return we to the Queen, who was advertised by her woman of that which had passed between the Prince and her, not omitting his heavy looks, and pitiful speeches. And then again, as glad to please the Queen, whom she was assured loved him, spared not at large to set out his honours gained, his comeliness of person, 〈◊〉 and whatsoever else the world admired in him, she admirably advanced, to the greatest content of Cleodora, who thought every minute a year until she saw him, whom with hearty desire ardently she expected: and with that looking out at the casement, she might espy her beloved son: what joy it caused, let them judge which have made better experience in lovers delights.  
The Queen having the sight of her so long desired object, sent Lucilla to entertain him, and to conduct him unto her presence. Cleodora staying to frame her countenance for his welcome, bethought herself of sundry means; e●…tsoones, doubting by her too pleasant and kind usage, to be held too forward in love, than what discontent her lowering aspects might move unto him, whom she most desired to please. In this quandary, sitting upon a pallet, and leaning her head on her pillow, Lucilla had brought the Prince in, who doing his duty very feebly (for the remembrance of his attempt had astonished him) was by the queen again saluted, attending like the guilty condemned, his sentence from her mouth, which was to give him either life or death. Eliosto thus at a non plus, overcome with the beholding of her excellent perfection, was by her, the mirror of affability and courtesy, removed out of his dumps in this manner. Eliosto, whether I should chastise thy presumption in writing to me so bold●…ly, or no, I am not yet resolved; but before I acquainted my Lord therewith, I thought good to hear thee speak (for that I would not so suddenly disgrace thee, whom so often I have favoured) as well to hear thy intent in committing so great a folly, as what thou canst say in excuse thereof. Princes are not to be jested with, nor in such manner by their kindred to be assailed; therefore thou hast greatly erred in that which is committed, & incurred the danger of our chiefest laws, by which, were thy fact known, thou art already condemned. The prince standing at the bar, where Beauty sat chief judge, was surprised with many griefs, so that hardly he could utter a word: yet revived by the hope of those comfortable and sweet sayings pronounced by Lucilla, he shaped her this reply. Gracious Lady, in that I have presumed fa●…e, I ●…an not but acknowledge; yet that I have incurred such punishment as your Highnes●…e would i●…flict upon me, I deny, unless death be the guerdon assigned the saithful; for dutiful service, and entire affection urged me to seekethy favour in love, without the which I cannot live, so deeply are thy virtuous perfections imprinted in my heart, which if jenjoy not, I desire no longer to breath. Therefore madam, if thou disdain his love, that living dieth continually for thee: do but say the word, and this blade, so often imbrued in the blood of 〈◊〉 enemies, shall sacrifice his masters own true heart before thy face, that thy cruel self may witnes●…e how faithfully Eliosto hath loved thee▪ The Queen grieved to hear these speeches, moved with great compunction, could hardly forbear shedding of tears; yet modesty, the ornament of womankind, caused her to feign a counterfeit show of displeasure to him, whose tears wrong drops of blood from her tender heart: yet that she might not too suddenly confess her desires, nor give him cause of utter despair, made this answer.  
Eliosto, that thou mayst see, and seeing, report in all places, where ever thou shalt become, of women's pity, I grant thee pardon for thy fault, and with it, that life which was wholly at my disposing. For loving me as thy prince, I heartily thank thee; but in seeking to obtain my love as thy Concubine, in that I defy thee: let each estate frame itself in affection, as it becometh equality; so shall men sooner obtain their desires, and their loves in more tranquillity be maintained. Thou knowest that such absurd actions are in the extremest degree of sin: Wilt thou therefore wish me, in violating the faith which I have plighted unto thy father, purchafe unto myself such a name, the remembrance whereof, is not less grievous unto me than death? No, no, desist not any further to prosecute thy su●…te, let reason vanquish thy brainsick humour, which so aff●…icts th●…e; in doing which, thou shalt make demonstration of that true nobility, wherewith thou art endued: for no greater conquest can be imagined, than that which upon a man's vnt●…med affections is achieved. Do this, and thou 〈◊〉 find Cleodora thy loving and faithful friend; who 〈◊〉 be as careful with favours to advance thee, as I have found thee prompt and ready by thy service to pleasure me. A●…as, good Madam, answered the Prince, it is a thing far more easy to give counsel, than once given, to follow it. The full gorged Churl little regardeth the starving creature at his gate; but could you conceive the leas●… part of many thousand griefs that afflict me, you would at the length pity me, though further favour from you I received none: If thy heart be not harder than the Adamant, yield thy grace (sweet Lady) to augment my life, or utterly for ever deny me your good will. I expect but your answer, for my resolution is no other than I have protested: dastards fear to die, but the noble mind preferreth death which endeth all sorrows, before a life to be continued with discontent. The Queen, as full of anguish, as he of sorrow, being at her wit's end, turned her speeches to an other matter; and requested him, to contrive as cunningly as he could, his fancy in a fiction, willing therefore to show his Mistress (for such I must now term her) that he was not ignorant in music, taking a Lute in his hand, began to warble out this Roundelay.  

Love was armed with fatal bow,  
Shafts which Mother did bestow,  
Mother gave, but Father framed,  
Father, Mother, both wer●… blamed.  
Want●…n Goddess did beguile,  
Husband with afained smile:  
For a kiss she did obtain,  
(Labour never spent in vain,)  
Tha●… her son by Vulcan's trade,  
Might the chiefest God be made.  
Thus she won him to her will,  
(Wily work of Woman's skill:)  
But the Boy more proud than wise,  
Waves his wings, and forth he flies.  
Soon as he on earth had lighted,  
Thus the fondl●…ng was despited.  
As he vaunted 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 old,  
Thinking all that glisteren gold,  
Terming in a 〈◊〉 thought,  
Which his self conceit had ●…rought,  
Heau'●… his footstoo●…e, gods his mark,  
Men his objects, Earth his park,  
Gods and men his hunting game:  
Beauty natures darling came,  
Beauty clad in native hue,  
Whom the Graces did endue  
With rich plenty of their gifts:  
" Beauty cause of witty shifts,  
Beauty with whose worth delighted,  
Poets have sweet Hymns 〈◊〉:  
Fair as is th●… ruddy morn,  
Leaving restful Bower forlor●…e.  
M●…rne did with Vermi●…ion red,  
Rising from ●…ld Tithon's bed.  
Thus the fairest of all fair,  
Denied to grace the liquid air:  
Passing by where Love did stand,  
Holding powerful bow in hand:  
Not saluting as she went,  
Him that raged in discontent.  
" Boyli●…g wrath must issue find,  
" Wrath that boiled in troubled mind:  
For the ease of whose unrest,  
Thus his fury was expressed.  
" Love, said he, was Beauties better,  
" She said Love was nature's debtor.  
Love exclaimed on Beauty's pride,  
Which all duties force denied.  
She said Love received no wrong,  
Where no duty did belong.  
None might crave peculiar ri●…ht,  
Sith they were of equal might.  
" He said Beauty ne'er prevailed,  
" But where Love the heart assailed.  
Beauty for itself admired,  
His shafts caused to be desired.  
For where Love bredno remorse,  
There had Beauty little f●…rce.  
Psyche was more fair than any.  
Loved of few, though liked of many.  
Yet so liked, that none affected:  
Sisters sped, but she rejected.  
Yet quoth Beauty, Psyche gained,  
Cupid's heart to her enchainde.  
Where was then his wont might,  
Vanquished by a woman's sight?  
Thus fell Love into a trip,  
Thus she galled him with a quip.  
He said, 'twas his own pr●…curement,  
She said, it wa●… her allurement.  
love said, Beauty pleased the eye,  
But he wrought hearts sympathy.  
He said, heart when eye had viewed,  
Was by Beauty's force subdued.  
He said, Beauty soon decayed:  
She s●…id, Love no longer stayed,  
Then while beauty was in prime,  
Thus did both give place to Time.  
Cupid grieved with these replies,  
Framed by her in taunting wise:  
Swore, by dreadful Stygian lake,  
(Greatest v●…w that Gods can make)  
That he would no more descend,  
Till he did this quarrel end:  
Vowing by his godheads might,  
Beauty's darlings to despite.  
Thus he sa●…es, and up he fl●…es  
Swiftly through the Empire skies.  
If me●… might this strife decide,  
As by men it should be tried,  
Then would all agree in one,  
" Beauty can prevail alone:  
" Beauty able to ●…thrall,  
" Eyes, and heart, and thoughts, and all:  
Y●…t three powers in one a●…enting,  
Struck mine heart, heart soon rele●…ting,  
Eye●… saw beauty and admired it.  
Love saw heart, through eyes he fired it:  
But fair looks did first constrain  
Cupid's shafts to shape my pain.  
Fairer virtue Beauties ●…ewell,  
Bade me not pronounce Love cruel.  
Love that forced me to affect,  
Beauties worth by Virtue deck●…:  
Then, O three of all the chief,  
Ease at last my ●…oathed grief.   
The Queen hearing all those extremes to grow from affection, was in such sort by them captivated, that veiling top-gallant, she returned to Eliosto this final and comfortable resolution: The flax (gentle Eliosto) soon flameth, and yields but a flash; the kind mushroom soon ripens, and as soon rots; the best Emphemerum in the river Hippanis, is made in a moment, and marred in a minute: but chose, it must be immoderate heat that engendereth the Salamander; which engendered, never dieth until the fire be extinguished. Long time it is before the Laurel flourisheth, which flourishing, never fadeth with summer's blaze, or falleth with winter's blast. The Elephant is borne ten years in the dams belly, but once brought forth, liveth three hundred. Therefore think me not unworthy to be worn, Eliosto, because so long to be wooed: For light beli●…fe hath commonly light love. The fish Alphya is engendered with a small shower of rain, and therefore is counted no meat for a velvet mouth▪ But good chaffer is not so soon cheapened; that which is dear of price, is dear and precious: yea, that Castle which bears most brunt, is deemed most worthy when it is scaled. Neither do I yet condescend to thy petition, unless I were pushed thereto by thy p●…mise, that thou wilt be as faithfull' as thy protestations are fair; Not like the Lightning which flasheth, and presently ●…adeth: Nor resembling the stone M●…hrax, which is of a rose colour, but scorched with 〈◊〉 beams, becomes chargeable: but rather imitating the gem Thra●…ias, most burning when thou 〈◊〉 overwhelmed with roaring and raging disasters▪ On which conditions thy promises placing, ●…nd reposing the irremo●…eable foundation of my faithful refolution, I make thy person the prison of my heart, and not only v●…uchsafe thee of some gra●…ts of grant, but th●…t thou mayst assure thyself the feeds of thy suit to have been sown in a fertile soil: for every grain of Love buried in my breast, I will yield thee an ear of fifty corns. With that the impatient Lovers (as if Mars had combated with D●…me Cytherea, for ●…uffring her Boy to make him the mark of his game) rose in arms, where Love conquered Pleasure, Desire took incestuous Delight captive, and little Cupid, like a valiant carpet knight, flew into Venus his mother's bosom. Lucilla suspecting no less, was thunder-stricken with that sod●…ine and sorrowful imagination, that bursting out of an ecstasy wherein she had long stood, like one beholding 〈◊〉 head, lamenting as if she would have died, and in dying, made an atonement with Death: she sat weeping and wailing for that outrageous accident, wring her lili●… white hands, and fixing her blubbered eyes on the comfortless ground, clad in sable habit, witnessing her heart's sadness, and sti●…l crying on the names of Eliosto and Cleodora, still casting out woeful invectives against the Destinies, calling herself a most accursed wretch, born under such unfortunate planets: with that she might hear certain trumpets sound, whereby she gathered (as it was indeed) that the King was returning from hunting, giving therefore these Lou●…rs dren●…ht in the full channel of Pleasure this advertisement, for that time they parted. Now Eliosto after this was more impatient in his passions. For love so fiercely assailed him, that neither Company nor Music could mitigate his ma●…yrdome, b●…t did rather far increase his malady. Shame would not let him crave counsel in this case, nor fear of his father's displeasure reveal it to any friend, but was fain to make a Secretary of himself, and to participate his thoughts with his own troubled mind.  
Living thus a day or two distracted, he called to mind, the counsel of Cleodora, which was, that he should insinuate himself into the favour of her maid Lucilla, who both could and would pleasure them in their loves. Her therefore he determined to make one of his c●…mplices, not for that he certainly thence expected help, neither meant desperately to detect his int●…mate secrets without some hope; but as the Merchant, when with the cruel confederacy of the rock and surges rage, the ship, like to a weak stickler, having all his plancke-ribs rend and riven asunder, committeth his wearied body to the convoy of a floating board: as the soldier, who being hemmed in on every side with his enemy's ranks, neither stands amazed with fear, yielding his naked breasts to the merciless javeline, nor desperately rusheth against the point of the pike, which is not fortitude, but folly; but to perform Nature's injunctions, gathereth himself wisely within his weapon, and striveth with courage to acquit himself valiantly. Or as the wise physician, which forsaketh not his patient, though he can not find any sovereign medicine for his malady, but ministereth such as mere conjectures teach him, lest he discouraged, should deliver to death, his patient discomforted: Even so Eliosto, thinking to prove Lucilla, though not sure to prevail, sent for her, who speedily coming, he courteously entertained, and with these persuasions endeavoured to make her a favourite to his purposes. To whom, as they sat together in his lodging; Friend Lucilla (quoth the Prince) for so your courtesy in speedy coming at my request willeth me to call you; I am to impart a matter unto you, of no small importance, in which I must first desire your diligence, faith, and secrecy: Long since I had laid these affairs in your faithful bosom, but that I scarce knew your nature, which since the dearest of mine acq●…aintance, being the most familiar of your friends, the most friendly of my familiars, have with no small commendations delivered unto me; saying also, that you deserved to be inscribed in the catalogue of my acquaintance: I ever sought to join hands with you in friendship, which now willingly breaketh forth into a flame, and displaieth itself unto your sight; and if it shall please you to accept the same, you shall henceforth find me as forward to show myself grateful, as at this time, I am desirous you should gratify me in this action. To these Lucilla bowed herself, and Eliosto proceeded. Since the matter is to be unfolded between friends▪ I need not use any glozing phrase, flowers of Rhetoric, or colours of eloquence; thou knowest, gentle Lucilla, how di●…ficult it is to love, and how much difficult not to love: Is the iron faulty, because it cleaveth to the forcible Adamant? the needle because it is drawn by the virtue of the Loadstone? gold, in that it cannot withstand the hidden strength of the Chrysocol? or the rush, because it moveth to the jeate or Amber? or is flesh and blood to be blamed, because subject to Beauty? No, no, gentle Lucilla: It is the attractive force of flowering beauty, which bewitcheth the wisest, encls anteth the severest, curseth Sobriety from her Court, & dislodgeth Virtue from her castle. The conquered must obey by constraint: for me to strive against the stream, is fury; to bear a sail against the wind, frenzy. Wherefore exiling all mistrust, from the bottom of mine heart, I will briefly display unto thee the whole shrine of my secrets; then will I unfold both our ensuing profits, and also the means of eschewing our peril. I love my mother Cleodora, neither is the fault (if any fault be) to be fathered by me, but by Fortune, who holdeth the helm or stern of all human life. I was not erst acquainted with mother's manners, nor invitiated in the elements of her country courtesies. I thought that women's eyes had ever been true ambassadors of their hearts, I took their looks for their suitors, and their glances to be tokens of their special goodwill: alas, herein I failed in my physiognomy; for noting Cleodora often sweetly to smile on me, and gathering thereby (as I thought) infallible signs of her favour towards myself: and on the other side, supposing that I should show myself to be but of a very cold constitution, in that I could not love, or prove myself an haggard, or fainthearted fool, to expect any further at a woman's hands, whose modesty restraineth her from opening her mind any otherwise, than by her eyes only: Wherefore, I mo●…e forward▪ than fortunate, first set my fort into the field, thinking myself a worthier parsonage, because loved of such a Lady; and then first thinking myself unworthy, at least unworthy of such a creature: so, not suspecting otherwise, than that all was sure on my side, with the better courage I marched thither; where I found contrary to expectati●…n▪ the gates of Lou●… fast locked, and my passage to Affection gainsaid: but shame it was to retire, nay it was unpossible to return; for by dealing with the flame, I had so seared and singed my wings, that I was safe enough for flying further. Therefore now pitying myself, who was erst so pitiful for her sake, I fought by all means I could, by often rubbing, to force out some fire, in the hard flinty walls of her heart, whereby in time I found her so tractable; yea, and her entire love, shining forth in such abundance, that I could not without much diligence and industry, devise how to cover the light thereof; our love was still letted, but so far from being lessened, that now, if thou vouchsafest not thine helping hand, it will deface with the foulest blot, our whole family, to the ruin both of thy Mistress, and myself. Although for the honourable love which my soul beareth to our famous house, I could persuade myself to abandon the Court, my Country, to leave my father; yea, which thing is greatest, and most grievous, to forego my dearest mother, hoping that Time might wear out the Impressa of her image ●…rom mine heart, if thus much I were not acquainted with her determinate resolution, that she will either fly with me, or follow me: yet if she be intercepted, she will tear the prison of her dainty body, with her naked hands, so that her soul freed from earthly fetters, will still accompany me. Then what loud laughter would this afford to our envious foes? what lamentation would it bring to our friends? who the more the envious should triumph umphat her grief, the more would she grieve at her triumph. Therefore (sweet Lucilla) we commit to thee, the reins of our coach, hoping thou wilt with as great speed as we both expect, guide us to the height of our desires: what prejudice can arise, for that I once or twice enter commons with my father, especially when his eyes see nought whereat they may grieve, nor any perceive whereat they may grudge: which done, we shall begin to love with reason, who now are led with rage, and after our heat is mitigated, call ourselves to account, and counsel how we may break off our commenced course. Thou knowest how our wishes may be comp●…ssed, how our wills may be accomplished; thou art acquainted with the rooms and lodgings of the Court, thou canst procure me access without suspicion, and regress without danger: this cannot be done without thy help, and cannot be left undone without our mishap. Now, what profit may hereby proceed, what discommodity you shall prevent, I appeal to none other judge than to thine own dis●…retion; for hereby thou shalt preserve our houses fame, and deserve me thy eternal friend. Be not merciless, good Lucilla, because I entreat thee, nor void of pity, because I pray thee: I have committed to thee my body, which is myself; and Cleodora who is my soul, use them faithfully, who doubted not to conceive of thee friendly: let it suffice that thou couldst as well hurt as help, kill as cure, as well sink as save us.  
Hereupon Lucilla somewhile deliberating, and in deliberation making fair weather in her face, which betokened the like to betide E●…sosto in his love. And although Eliosto (quoth she) as you pretend the yro●… naturally cleaveth to the forcible Adamant, and nature can not be exanthorated, yet the adamant loseth his power when the iron is rubbd over with the Sideritie: though th●… needle be drawn unto the loadstone, yet the operation of the loadstone is annihilated by opposition of the more virtuous Theomedes: the Chrysocolla being steeped in the juice of garlic, loseth his effect: the jet cannot prevail against the rush, unless yourself voluntarily lend it artificial heat: to be short, human flesh is not so feeble, as you paint it forth, unless Virtue the prince and mistress be made slavish, subject to base affections: how can Beauty bear sway, if you rule your bark with this rudder? If you use this excellent gift as a preservative kept in your pocket, or a Pomander in your bosom, without applying the one, or chafing the other: then is not virtue in the fault, but the blame to be laid on your own folly: for wherefore do you we are a Laurel branch, and yet are scorched with lightning? to what end do you bear the hook, and yet suffer the mind to be overgrown with disordinate weeds? what availeth it to carry the Androdamant shield of Pallas, if not able to shun the darts of Venus? But it is too late to cry Stand, to him that lieth in the dirt: to wish his present return, who hath newly committed his sails to the mercy of the wind: to teach him to know an Eel, who is already bitten with a snake: for in such cases, we nought require how it happened, but how the hap may be healed. Know therefore, worthy Eliost●…, how far this request is from news to Lucilla, which often Cleodora recited unto me, loading mine ears with lamentations, redoubling blows on her naked breasts; entreating me, either to take away her life, or else to make way for her love: I resisted, not moved with her petitions, which I confuted with persuasions, and would have confounded them with threats, had I not seen her desperate resolution to be such, that she would rather, or sooner butcher her own body, then renounce her dear love, Eliosto: how often being drowned in deep remembrance of yourself, she hath called upon the name of Eliosto, and espying me to per●…eiue it, she presently overcast her l●…llie che●…kes with a crimson vail! But alas, how hath Discontent altered her countenance? how hath Grief impaired her admired beauty? how have salt & briny tears left their stained paths where they erst trickled down, on that ever-flowring spring of her sweet face? Ah Cleodora! Cleodora (and therewith shaking her head, fresh tears broke forth their way) who ever saw a greater change? Cleodora I say, in whose person Virtue marched arm in arm with Beauty, hath blemished her outward blaze, with an inward blot. Cleodora, who was chaste, because she was wise, and wise, in that she was chaste, hath bleared the eye of her mind with foul affection: finally, Cleodora surpassing her sex as the Sunn●… doth all other planets, being Beauty itself, is Narcissus-like entangled with the image of Beauty: for you also noble Eliosto are passing fair, excelling men as far as the Moon doth any Star, to our sight, and therefore I the less marvel that such an eclipse should appear in our Sun, when such a Moon was opposite to the same: But now since a dangerous sore requireth an undaunted physician, I here gird myself to the undertaking of this service, and purpose to give you notice of convenient opportunity. This being said, Lucilla took her leave, promising that Eliosto should hear from her ere long: Be mindful then (good Lucilla) q●…oth Eliosto, for I long to hear from thee. I will deserve commendations (quoth she) and then she departed.  
Not long after, through the vain conceit of factious spirits, desiring (as many nowadays) innovation, there grew in the Northern parts of Cyprus, a sedition, which by reason of prejudicial proceedings seemed to be peremptory in some fatal resolution. Amasias sovereign and king of that famous Continent, pitying the sinister accidents of his people, being a man as just in his censures, as royal in his possessions, as careful for the weal of his country, as the continuance of his diadem, thought, That unpeopled cities were corrosives to princes consciences, that the strength of his subjects, was the sinews of his dominions, and that every crown must contain a care, not only to win honour by foreign conquests, but in mainta●…ning dignity with civil and domestical insights. Wherefore grounding his arguments upon these premises, coveting to be counted Pater patriae, determined with as great speed as might be, to suppress, by his royal presence in those parts (if it were possible) the principal means of that disordinate ●…ebellion. Providing therefore all things needful for su●…h an expedition, forth he sets, no less honourably accompanied, then strongly defended; unto whose events, for a time, we will leave him. The Queen seeing Fortune to present her with Ball and Racket, thought it not good, through remiss negligence, to tempt her Deity. Whereupon she dispatched her maid to advertise the Prince, not of those accidents (for with them he was thoroughly acquainted) but of the time when he should be present before cleodora's window, which was at ●…en of the clock in the night. E●…osto upon these tidings, being endued with vanity, and imbrued with vice, did so nursle himself up in this his admiration, as that neither the dread of God's wrath, nor the fear of his father's displeasure, could drive him to desist from his detestable kind of living. Well, at length the heavy evening, heavy for the departure of beautiful 〈◊〉, began to put on her sable attire, and mourning-like, to fix her saddest face on the sorrowful earth; her face I say, yet black and sorrowful, though the golden stars, labour●…d with their twinkling light, to make her look somewhat more lively: when Eliosto engulphed in an Ocean of Conceits, came staggering to the lodging, or rather temple o●… his goddess, where he might espy the beams of a c●…ndle breaking through a chink of a moltred wall. The Prince peeping, perce●…ued Cl●…odora sitting very solitari●…, with her folding arms, embracing ea●…h other, whom after he had named, and delivered his watchword: Who, mine Eliosto (quoth she?) ay, answered he, I am here, truly in●…ituled, Thine 〈◊〉: since I am altogether thine: open; open unto me, my sweet darling, for I long to enjoy thy beloved company.  
Cleo●…ora with silent pace approached to the gates herself, endeavouring to undo the bars, which indeed were too heavy to be removed by a weak woman's arm; notwithstanding she opened them only for the space of half a foot, which Eliost●… seeing, Desire making him think nothing unpossible; first with his right slender side, and consequently with his whole body, entered the house: where embracing her, as he thought to have imprinted his heart in her sweet lips, she fell into a swoon: so did the ●…xtremitie of either sudden joy, or inopina●…e fear exanimate her; the blood naturally retiring from her palest face, to comfort the passionate heart, the trembling whites of her eyes, scarce appearing through their almost closed shrines, so that she seemed ra●…her a senseless image, than a lively corpse: but only the pulses, as messengers, and vital heat remaining, and yet retaining his course, gave evidence, that the soul had as yet, not le●…t the earthly confines of her tabernacle. Eliosto hereat would have lost his wits, in the Labyrinth of perplexities, had not the sting of grief recalled and reclaimed his ●…leeting and fugitive spirits. Alas, if I should fly (quoth he) I were guilty of her death, for leaving her destitute in such danger; if I remain, some one of her guard may take me, and f●…om me, my life. O unfortunate love, which minglest my sugar with salt, my syrup with aloes, my gladness with grief; thou givest me a nosegay of nettles, hid amongst a few roses, thou showest me a fair picture drawn with infectious paint, thou offerest to kiss me, and in kissing, to stab me. Into how many dangers hast thou drawn me? Into how many deaths hast tho●… driven me? with how many blows hast thou annoyed my ●…orrowfull head? what plague now remained for thee to exercise upon my vnfort●…nate ●…elfe but this? the worst and wo●…ullest, to murder a Lady in mine arms? why hadst thou not rather tried thy cruelty, and tired thyself with tyranny firs●… on Eliosto? why hadst thou not first butchered my body, and staunched thy thirst with my blood? happ●…er had I ●…ied, laying mine head in he●… lap, than living to have held her dy●…ng in my bo●…ome This sa●…d, he being overcome with pity, and kindness, cast away all care of his own 〈◊〉, and often bowing up her speechless body, often kissing her, and more often watering the garden (sometimes a fair garden fairly decked with freshest flowers) of her face with dew from his distillant eyes: Ah Cleodora, quoth he, where art thou? why, hearest thou not? Or hearing, why answerest thou not? Open thine eyes, and see thy Eliosto, and seeing, smile on him, and smiling as thou art wont, kiss him; it is thy Eliosto who is present with thee, speaketh to thee, and kisseth thee; alas, and art thou dead, my heart? soon shall my sword make passage for my soul, that it might meet thee again in the fair Elysian fields. Ah my life, my delight, blessed hope, my dearest joy, shall I so lose thee? Yet unfold those beautiful carbuncles of thine eyes, yet heave up thine head, or at least, bid me farewell: I see thou art not yet departed, thou yet retainest vital heat, thou yet breathest, thy heart yet beateth. O Cleodora, leave not thy Love in so lamentable distress; are these the joys unto which thou bidst me? these the delights to which thou bringest me? these the pleasures to which thou invitest me? is this the night which thou affordest me? Ah blackest night, fit witness of my woes, because best resembling my sorrows: Therewith fixing his eyes on cleodora's face, he reigned forth tears in such abundance, that they washing her temples somewhat pierced and quickened the surprised senses; whereby weakly starting up, and garishly staring about, especially on the face of Eliosto; Ah, where have I been (said she) why didst thou not rather suffer me quietly to depart? blessed had I died in thy embracings, and happy to have breathed forth my soul into thy mouth, but now must I live to be left of thee, and now must I die for being left of thee. But within a while, she being appeased, they entered their bed chamber, and having laid aside their apparel (as some men use to do their friends) until they had need to use them again, they reposed their dainty bodies in the prepared bed. In which bed it might seem that Cupid had taken up his lodging, and yet not to rest: he came naked, and without all armour, and yet not without his dart: He was her Mars, Paris, Ganymedes, she his Venus, Helena, Polixena, Aemilia. Now he praised her fair eyes, commended her soft cheeks, her full swelling paps; and yet not satisfied with delight, he often lifted up the sheet, to make the sense of his sight partaker of those joys, which his feeling had before possessed. And what disaster (said he) so desperate, that could deter me from venturing for such a conquest? Now is my fortune in the pride of her estate, now am I placed in the height of felicity, now am I seated upon the throne of happiness. But alas, why flies th'envious hour away so fast? why fleets the winged night so hastily? why doth Apollo gather his starved steeds so soon to their daily labour? Give me a night, such as thou didst to Hercules, and Alcmene; certes if aged Tithon were as much delighted with the company of Aurora, as I with Cleodora, he would longer detain her in her watery couch. Neither was the queen all this while silent, who repaid him his own, both in word and action. By this time the blackest night had his jeaty beard changed into an hoary grey, whereby Eliosto perceived that he was waxen old and departing, ready to resign his sceptre to a better successor; Wherefore, though detained with the love he bore to his mother, yet forced with fear of both their ensuing infamies, he took his fainting farewell. Thus by these two infortunate lovers, (as in the progress of this History shall be showed) we may see, How through our own will, and too much liberty, that small inclination which we have to virtue, to be utterly extinguished and brought to nothing. The palm tree pressed down, groweth notwithstanding but too fast, the herb Spattania, though trodden on, groweth very tall; and youth, although strictly restrained, will prove but too stubborn. The vessel savoureth always of that liquor, wherewith it was first seasoned, and the mind retaineth those qualities in age wherein it was trained vp●…e in youth. The tender twig is sooner broken than the strong branch, the young stem more brittle than the old stock, the we●…ke bramble shaken with every wind, and the waue●…ing will of youth tossed with every puff of vanity, ready to be wracked in the waves of wantonness, unless it be cunningly guided by some wise and wary Pilot. Whersore, seeing youth is so easily entrapped with the alluring train of foolish delights, and so soon entangled with the trash of pernicious pleasures; let us not pass away our time in idleness, least happily, being taken at discovert, we become careless captives to Security: For when the mind once floateth in the surging seas of idle conceits, than the puffs of voluptuous delights, & the stifling storms of unbridled fancy, the raging blasts of alluring Beauty, and the sturdy gale of glozing vanity, so shake the ship of reckless youth, that it is daily in doubt to suffer most dangerous shipwreck. But let us spend our time in reading such ancient Authors, as may sharpen our wits by their pithy sayings, & learn us wisdom by their perfect sentences. For where Nature is vicious, by Learning it is amended; and where it is virtuous, by Skill augmented. The stone of secret virtue is of greater price, if it be bravely polished: the gold, though never so pure of itself, hath the better colour, if it be burnished: & the mind, though never so virtuous, is more noble, if enriched with the gifts of Learning. But to my purpose. Not long after, Amazias having quatted the quesy stomaches of the rebels, & setting all things in order, returned with safety to Famogosta, esteemed famous for his peaceable government; administering justice with such severity, and yet tempering the extremity of the law, with such lenity, as he both gained the good will of strangers, in hearing his virtue, and won the hearts of his subjects in feeling his bounty; counting him unworthy to bear the name of a sovereign, who knew not according to desert, to cherish & chastise his subjects: and had not in continent affection (which he used daily) countervailed his more royal disposition, the state of his sovereignty had been beautified with inequivalency. But the obliquity of this vice being firmly fortified in the centre of his heart, could neither by the honest society with his Qu. any thing be mitigated, or through the immoderate & illicit acquaintance with others, somewhat discouraged. For proof whereof, on a day, after the Northern tempests were quieted, as he road a hunting with certain of his Peers, he stumbled by chance at a Farmer's house, where he espied a woman, homely attired, of modest countenance, her face imported both love & gravity; who seeing the King approach, dying her crystal cheeks with a vermilion hue, after humble reverence, brought him in a country Cruise, such drink as their cottage did afford. Amazias narrowly marking her proportion, courteously took his leave and departed; but the sparks of lust that had kindled a flame of Desire in his fancy, perplexed his mind with sundry passions: For calling to his consideration, not only her exterior beauty, adorned with sundry graces; but also her inward perfection, bewraiing she was both wise and honest, he fell into this discourse with himself. For shame Amazias let not thy thoughts wander in a Labyrinth, to be endless, seeing the flower of thy youth hath been spent in vice, let the fruit of thine age only savour of virtue: if the goods had not the Firstlings of thy years, yet let them have thy grey head in pawn of a sacrifice. Time is a retreat from vanity & vice; thy foot is stepping to the grave, & Opportunie bids thee take hold of repentance. Venus is printed without wrinkles, as signifying she is the goddess of youth: What of this fond fool? suppose thou wert young, shalt thou therefore wallow in intemperance? do not the gods forbid thee to crave another man's due? are not voluptuous desires to be suppressed as well in the young sien, as in the old tree? is thy fancy so fickle, as every face must be viewed with affection? Fond man, think this, that the poor man makes as great account of his wife, as the greatest Monarch in the world doth of an Empress; that honesty harbours as soon in a cottage, as in the court; that their minds oppressed with want, are freed from the vanities of love. Then Amazias, cease these frivolous suppositions, and seek not so much as in thought, to offer wrong to so modest a woman, whose honest behaviour foreshows, that as she is poor, so she is chaste, and holdeth as dear the price of her fame, as the state of her life. No doubt Amazias thou art become a very holy Prelate, that hast so many precepts to refel that thou hast always followed. Is not Love a Lord, as well amongst Beggars as Kings? Cannot Cupid as soon hit a shepherds hook, as a sceptre? Doth not Poverty by natural insight yield to the desires of Majesty? Are women's faces always Calendars of Truth, or are their looks (as Ovid affirmeth) ever Mind-glasses? No, the thoughts of women hang not always in their eyes, Dissimulation is sister to janus, and wanton appetite, oftentimes jetteth under the mask of Chastity. Hast thou hitherto not been repulsed with any resolute denials, and shalt thou now be overthrown with a look? No, forward Amazias in thy purpose, triumph man, and say as Caesar did in his Conquests, Veni, Vidi, Vici. The King resting upon this wicked resolution, met by chance the husband of the wife coming from Plough, who seeing Amazias, did his duty in most humble manner. The King thinking to take opportunity at the rebound, thought now he had very good means to know the disposition of the woman, and her husband's name, that he might make repair thither, to prosecute his wicked purpose. He began therefore to inquire of the man where he dwelled: the poor Farmer, calling to mind that he had a fair wife, was not willing to tell the place of his abode, made answer, Upon the Forest side. What is he (quoth Amazias) that dwells at yonder Grange place (for they were in view of the house,) and if thou canst (quoth he, go so far) tell me what your neighbours say of his fair wife? The man was amazed at this question, suspecting that, which indeed proved true; though his apparel was simple, yet having a subtle wit, made him this answer. The man (my Liege) is poor, but honest; his name Lew●…sohiln, a Farmer by profession, loved of his neighbours, for that he never envieth his superiors, nor grudgeth at his equals; favoured of the gods, in that amidst his poverty, he hath a contented mind, and a wife that is beautiful, wise, and honest: whose life is so virtuous, that our Country wives take her actions as a Precedent, whereby they may govern their fame and credit: in so much, that she is not so much praised for her beauty, as she is reverenced for her chastity. Amazias contented with this reply, road his way, and the poor man in a dump went home to his wife, to whom he revealed the effect of the King's demand: she willing her husband to repose his wont trust in her good behaviour, quieted his mind with the hope of her constancy; but the like rest happened not unto the King. For he, incensed by the praises of her virtues, fell into such a restless Chaos of confused passions, that he could take no rest till the night was passed in broken slumbers. The next morning, taking Love only for his guide, privately he went to the Farmer's house, where finding her with one of her maids in the midst of her housewifry, he stood a pretty while, taking a view of her exquisite perfection; till at the last, the good wife espied him, (who, nothing dismayed with his presence, for that being forewarned, she was forearmed) gave him after her homely fashion, a Country welcome. The King sat down, and finding some talk, began to discourse with her, about her well ordered house, and other matters, that by a long insinuation, he might the better fall to his purpose. The poor woman, whose name was Ballinea, was as busy as a Bee, to set before Amazias such rural junkets, as the Plough affords, making few answers; till at last the King, after he had tasted of her delicates, taking her by the hand, framed his speech in this manner.  
Ballinea, I will not make a long harvest, for a small crop; nor go about to pull Hercules' shoe, upon Achilles' foot; Orations are needless, where necessity forceth, and the shortest preamble is best, where Love puts in his plea: therefore, omitting all frivolous prattle, know, that as well at the sight of thy Beauty, as by the report of thine Honesty, affection hath so fettered me in the snares of fancy, that formy best refuge, I am come to thy sweet self, to crave a salve for those passions, which no other can appease. I deny not, but thou hast both Love, and Law, to withhold thee from this persuasion: and yet we know, women have their several friends. Venus, though she loves with one eye, yet she can look with th'other. Cupid is never so unprovided, but he hath two arrows of one temper. Offences are not measured by proportion, but by secrecy: Sinon castè tamen cautè. If not chastely; yet charily: thou mayst both win a friend, and preserve thy fame, yea Ballinea, such a friend whose countenance shall shroud thee from envy, and whose plenty shall free thee from penury. I will not stand longer upon this point, let it suffice, that in loving me, thou shalt reap preferrment, and in denying my suit purchase to thy husband, and thyself, such an hateful enemy, as to requite thy denial, will seek to prejudice thee with all mishaps. Ballinea, who knew the length of his arrow, by the bent of his bow, (resolved rather to taste of any misery, than for lucre to make shipwreck of her chastity) returned him this sharp answer. Indeed, my Liege, a less harvest might have served for so bad corn, that how warily soever you glean, it will scarce prove worth the reaping. true it is, that preambls are frivolous, that persuade men to such follies: therefore, had you spared this speech, your credit had been the more, & your labour less. If on the sudden my beauty hath inueagled you (for as for my virtue you hazard but a suppose, sith ofttimes report hath a blister on her tongue) I must blame your eye that is bleared with every object, & accuse such a mind as suffers honour to be suppressed with affection, & (my Lord) soon ripe soon rotten, hot love is so one cold. men's fancies are like fire in straw, that flames in a minute, & ceaseth in a moment: But to return you a denial with your own objection: true it is that I am tie to my husband both by love & law, which to violate, both the gods and nature forbids us, unless by death. Venus may love & look as she list, & at last prove herself but a wanton; her inordinate affections, are no precedents whereby to direct my actions. And whereas you say Offences are measured by secrecy; I answer, Every thing is transparent to the sight of the gods, their divine eyes pierce into the heart and thoughts; & they measure not revenge by dignity, but by justice. For preferrment, know (mighty prince) there are no greater riches than content, nor no greater honour than quiet: I esteem more of fame than of gold, & rather choose to die chaste than live rich, threatenings are small persuasions, & little is her honesty that prefers life before credit. Therefore may it please you, this is my determined resolution, which take from me as an Oracle, that as preferment shall never persuade me to be unchaste, so death shall never dissuade me from being honest. Amazias hearing this rough reply of the woman, was driven into a marvelous choler, so that scarce affording her a farewell, he flung out of doors, and going to horse, he hied home to the court. The good wife glad that he took the matter so in snuff, commanded her maid to say nothing to her master, lest it should disquiet his mind. But the King impatient of this denial, thought that the City which would not yield at the parley, might be conquered by an assault; and that which entreaty could not command, force would constrain: therefore he commanded one of his Peers, whom he made privy to his practice, to give him warning to depart out of his house, but with this proviso, that if his wife were found tractable, than she should remain there still. The Noble man fulfilling his Sovereign's command, proved strait by experience, that it was as possible to force the stream against his course, or the earth to ascend from his centre, as to draw her mind from virtue and honesty: and therefore, contrary to all law and conscience, charged them to leave their livings. The poor man, after his wife had made him privy to the cause of their sudden calamity, took it very patiently, & chose rather to live poorly content, then richly discredited: so that the prefixed time of his departure being come, he quietly departed from the farm to a cottage, where his wife and he lived as perfect lovers in unfeigned affection. Amazias seeing his policy took small effect, impatient still in his restless passions, accompanied one day with 5 or 6 of his nobles, taking the advantage of the time, perforce brought Ballinea away, & privily left two of his guard in ambush to kill Lewesohiln. The neighbours hearing of this mischief, secretly sent to Lewesohiln, where he was at plough, & forewarned him of all that Amazias had done, and intended.  
The poor man seeing, that to strive with him, was to shoot against the Heavens, preferring life before wealth, even as he was appareled, went far from the place of his residence; and as a man in distress, seeking service, went to a Collier, who entertained, and gave him such wages, as he deserved: where quietly, although disquieted in mind for the absence of his wife, he passed away a few days. diverse were poor Lewesohilns thoughts, for when he considered the Chastity of his wife, Suspicion hid her face for shame; but when he saw that women's thoughts are aspiring, and gape after preferment, and that the greatest assault to honesty, is Honour; he began to frown: so that thus between Dread and Hope, he lived disquieted. But poor Ballinea, whose misery was redoubled, by hearing of her husband's mishap, powered out such continual fountains of tears, as not only Amazias, but all men took pity of her plaints. But the unbridled fury of Lust, that while it runs headlong into a Labyrinth of mischiefs, feeleth no remorse, had no consideration of her daily sorrows, but resolved, if not by entreaty, at least by force, to come to the end of his lascivious desire. Which resolution being known to Ballinea, from Prayers she went to Policy, and therefore on the sudden became more courteous, desiring Amazias, that he would give her some space to forget her old Love, and entertain a new choice. He, whose fancy was somewhat appeased with this good speech, granted her the term of a month, with free liberty to walk in the garden, and elsewhere at her pleasure. Ballinea enjoying her wish, so fortunately taking Time by the forehead, early in a morning stole secretly from the Palace, and fled into the Country; where, in the day time hiding herself amongst bushes, and in the night traveling as fast as she could; at last she came to the place where her husband was with the Collier: and there changing her apparel into the attire of a man, and her head bravely shorn, she became an handsome stripling. The next day, coming to the Coalpits, she demanded service; The master Collier, seeing the youth well faced, had pity of his want, and entertained him: and for that Lewesohiln his man wanted one to drive his cart, he appointed Ballinea to attend upon him. She thanking the gods that blessed her with so favourable a service, was brought to the sight of Lewesohiln, and committed to his charge. Lewesohiln pitying the poor estate of such a young youth, noting narrowly the lineaments of her face, fell into sighs, & from sighs to tears, for the remembrance of his sweet Ballinea: who pitying her husband's plaints, in that she was a true diviner of his thoughts, could not (as women's secrets oft hang at the tip of their tongues) but bewray to her husband what she was: who, when he perfectly knew his wife, so strangely metamorphised; what for joy of her presence, and sorrow that Fortune had made them both thus unhappy, he fell into deeper complaints, till appeased by his wife, they went merrily to work. But Amazias missing Ballinea, and after diligent search, perceiving she was stole away, fell into such a melancholy humour, that his subjects thought him half in a frenzy. He commanded horse to be made out into every high way, all passages to be stopped, every woman to be examined: but in vain; which so increased his fury, that he enjoined an officer of his Court, (as well qualified as himself) to search out (if it were possible) by his extraordinary industry, the inauspicate conveyance of his love. Who taking horse, road up and down the country, as one half mad; but found not that he sought for. At last, Fortune envying the happiness of Lewesohiln, and his wife, brought him where the Colliers were at work: and a pretty space before he came at the Pit, he met Ballinea; who seeing him, although he had disguised himself, because he would ride unknown, yet perfectly perceived what he was; and therefore would willingly have been out of his company.  
But he calling unto her, and she having her leather coat all dusty, and her sweet face all besmeared with coals, was the bolder to go; and demanded of him what he wanted? Rawcikew (for so was the man's name) inquired if such a woman passed not that way? yes mary (quoth Ballinea) there passed by such a one indeed, who as she reported, fled from Amazias, for that the King would have deprived her of her chastity. Canst thou tell me (quoth he) whither she is gone? if I could (quoth Bal●…inea) think not so little courtesy in me, as to betray her; for by thy straight inquiry, I perceive thou art servant to that dishonourable Prince, that spareth neither wife nor widow, to satisfy his unbridled lust. Rawcikew not brooking these hard speeches, alighted from his horse, thinking to have well bombasted the boy; who, as fast as he could, fled to the Coal-pit. The colliers seeing their boy, (whom for his good behaviour, they all generally affected) to be misused by a Servingman, took their whips in their hands, and demanded of Rawcikew, what he meant to offer violence to any of their company? For that (quoth he) the boy hath greatly abused the King. Ballinea told them all the whole matter: which known, the Colliers wished him, if he were well, to be packing. Rawcikew seeing amongst such an unruly company, he could not mend himself, went his way with a slay in his ear; and as he road, perceived where Lewesohiln lay asleep; who was not so disguised, but he knew him perfectly: thinking therefore, when he did awake, to learn something out of him; and so turning his horse into a close hard by, rested himself behind a bush. Long he had not sat, before Ballinea came merrily whistling with her cart, & told her husband all what had happened; who both smiled that the officer had such rough entertainment, as also, that so cleanly she had deceived him. Rawcikew, who overheard them, and perceived that the youth whom he took for a stripling, was Ballinea the poor man's wife; felt such a remorse in his conscience, that the King should offer violence to so virtuous and chaste a mind, that as soon as they were gone, he posted as fast as he could to the Court, & revealed unto Amazias the whole matter: who greatly pleased with the discourse, desirous again to see so honest a wife, presently dispatched a Pursuivant to command the Collier to bring his man Lewesohiln, & his boy before him. The Pursuivant sparing no horseflesh, came so fast from the court, that he found them all at dinner: who, after they heard his message, were amazed; especially poor Ballinea, who feared some new misfortune: yet cheering herself, the better to comfort her husband, they went with the Pursuivant to the Court: where being brought before Amazias, Rawcikew complained of the Collier, how he had abused his Majesty, in maintaining his boy to give him evil language. The Collier (as a man amazed) confessed his fault, and therefore desired the Nobles which were standing by, to be his good Lords and Masters. Amazias, who all this while had his eye upon Ballinea, asked her what he was? May it please your Grace (quoth she) I am servant to this man, who is owner of the pit, but under this other, who is overseer of my work: so then (quoth the King) you serve two masters, the one by day, and the other by night. Nay my Liege (quoth Ballinea) but one master, for we make small account of any service that is done in the night. How say you sirrah (quoth the king to Lewesohiln) is not this boy your man? No my Lord (quoth he) only my bedfellow, and that is all the service I crave at his hands. At this answer, the King and the Noble men smiled, and Ballinea fearing she was discovered, began to blush: which Amazias perceiving, demanded of her, of what age she was? About 18. my Liege (quoth she). Amazias willing to try then, what the event would be, told the collier that he and his man, for that their faults were through ignorance▪ might get them home: but for your boy (quoth the King) seeing he is so young, and well faced, I mean to make him my Page. The Collier was glad he was so dispatched; but poor Lewesohiln, through abundance of grief was almost driven into an ecstasy; so that changing colour, he could scarce stand on his legs: which Ballinea perceiving, seeing now Fortune had done her worst, resolved to suffer all miseries whatsoever: falling down therefore upon her knees, she unfolded to the King what she was, & from point to point, discoursed what had happened between her & Rawcikew, intermeddling her speeches with such a fountain of tears, as the King pitying her plaints, willed her to be of good cheer; for neither he, nor any other in all his kingdom, should offer her any violence. Moved therefore with a certain compunction, he was not only content to bridle his affections, but to endow her with such sufficient lands, and possessions, as might very well maintain her in the estate of a gentlewoman; who with her husband, long after lived in a most prosperous and happy estate.  
These and such like irregular proceedings of the King, did without doubt, occasionate a far greater presumption of offending to Cleodora and Eliosto, after that inexpiable manner then unto which by their own inclination, they would have been instigated. But we must not look what men do, but what men ought to do: it is ill going to Hell, though with a thousand companions. Well, Eliosto was at length so intricated in the 'gins of affection, and so entangled with the trap of fancy, so perplexed in the labyrinth of pinching love, and so enchanted with the charms of Venus' sorcery; that as the Elephant rejoiceth greatly at the sight of a Rose, as the birds Halciones delight to view the feathers of the Phae●…ix, and as nothing better contenteth a Roe buck, than to gaze at a red cloth; so was there no object that could allure the wavering eyes of Eliosto, as the surpassing beauty of his mother Cleodora: yea, his only bliss, pleasure, joy, and delight, was in feeding his desires, with staring on the heavenly face of his goddess. But alas, her beauty in the end wrought his bane; her looks, his woe; her sight, his misery; her exquisite perfections, his utter overthrow: that as the Ape, by seeing the Snail is infected; as the Leopard falleth in a trance at the sight of the Locust; as the Cockatrice dieth with beholding the Chrysolite; so poor Eliosto was pinched (as the consequence of this History manifesteth) to the heart, with viewing her comely countenance, was gripped with execrable calamity, and tortured with insupportable torments, by gazing on the gallant beauty of so gorgeous a dame.  
Neither did cleodora's mishaps fail to accompany eliosto's extremities with correspondency: for she so framed in her imaginations the form of his face, and so imprinted in her heart the perfection of his person, that the remembrance thereof would not suffer her (exempted from his company) to take any rest: but then passed the day in dolour, the night in sorrow, no minute without mourning, & no hour without heaviness, till at length the vengeance of the gods, issuing forth like thunder eclipsed the bright sunshine of their felicity with the Cimmerian blackness of confusion. In the mean time, Fortune willing to advance them to the top of her inconstant wheel, sundry times presented them with opportunity for the fruition of their desires, and conveniency for the discourse of their mutual affections: which thing Eliosto, tbrough consonancy found most true: for on a day as he espied his Lady and Love walking alone in the Garden, his senses, by that sudden sight, was so revived, that without any dread or doubt, he manfully marched towards her, and was as hastily as heartily encountered by Cleodora, who embracing him in her arms, welcomed him with this salutation. As the whale (Eliosto) maketh always sign of great joy at the sight of the fi●…h called Talp●… Marina, as the lion fawneth at the view of the unicorn, and as he which drinketh of the fountain Hypanis in Scythia feeleth hismind so drowned in delight, that no grief, though never so great, is able to assuage it; so Eliosto I conceive such surpassing pleasure in thy presence, and such heavenly felicity in the sight of thy perfection, that no misery, though never so violent, is able to astonish me; no distress, though never so hateful, is able to amaze me●…; nor any mishap, though never so perilous, is able to make me sink in sorrow, so long as I enjoy thy presence, which I account a sovereign preservative against all careful calamities: that as he which tasteth of the herb Hyacinthus is never 〈◊〉 with trouble; and as he which weareth the stone 〈◊〉 about him, is surely defenced against all ensuing 〈◊〉 so enjoying the aspect of thy seemly self, and 〈◊〉 eyes with the form of thy feature, I think myself sufficiently shrouded against all the tempestuous showers of sinister Fortune: and to prove these my promises to be no feigned vanities, but faithful verity, I commit myself and state into thy ●…ands, to dispose of me at thy pleasure; wishing rather to live with thee in most opprobrious penury, than to linger here in most fortunate prosperity. Eliosto histning attentively to this sugared harmony, was so enthralled with the sight of her sweet face, and so rapt into a trance with the contemplation of her beauty, that as the lion tasting of the gum Arabic, becomes senseless; as the bull by browsing on the bark of a juniper tree, falleth asleep; as the camel standeth astonished at the sight of a rat, so Eliosto seeing in his arms the Saint whom in heart he did honour, and embracing the goddess whom with most deep devotion he did adore, was so amazed, that he was not able to utter one word, or witness of his happiness, until at last, gathering his wits together, he began thus to reply.  
Cleodora (quoth he) it is an axiom in Philosophy, that the colour joined hard to the sight, hindereth the sense; the flower put into the nostril stoppeth the smelling; the wine vessel being full, let's pass no wine, though never so well vented; the waterpot being filled to the brim, yieldeth forth no liquor, though having a thousand holes; so where the mind is surcharged with overmuch joy, or too much pleasure, there the tongue is both tied, and the senses so restrained, that the heart is neither able to conceive the joy, nor the tongue of power to express the pleasure, which Cleodora I now speak by proof, and know by experience; for I am so drowned in delight by enjoying that princely ●…emme, which I esteem the rarest and richest jewel, not only in Cyprus, but in all the world, so am I puffed up in pleasure by thy divine presence. Yea thy faithful and unfeigned affection, the promise of thy constancy, and the hope of thy loyalty, the force of thy beauty, and the fame of thy virtue; but above all, thy prodigal bounty, in bestowing these heavenly perfections on thy poor Eliosto, so surchargeth my seely heart with excessive joy, that my tongue not being able in part to express the extreme pleasure of my mind, I am with Philistion the Comical Poet constrained by silence to unfold that affection, which in words the siled phrase of Demosthenes were not able to decipher. But this assure thyself Cleodora, that if juno would advance me to be Monarch of the world, if Palla●… would prefer me to exceed haughty Hercules in valour, if Venus would present me with some princely peer of heavenly complexion, yet would I not so gladly receive their proffers, as I do gratefully accept the promise of thy love and loyalty. No, I do gladly account the treasure of Croesus to be but trash, in respect of the guerdon of thy good will, I account the fortu●…e of Caesar but folly, respecting the fruits of thy favour, I do esteem the dignities of 〈◊〉 as d●…egs in respect of thy divine perfection. Yea Cleodora, I am so snared with thy beauty, and so entangled in the trap of thy bounty, as I shall never leave to love, nor ever begin to like any other. It is easy Eliosto (quoth Cleodora) to purchase credit where the party is already persuaded, and to infer belief, where every word is esteemed as an Oracle. Therefore omitting these frivolous protestations, thus I say touching the purpose. Cecillius Metellu●… was wont to say, that as it was necessary that old men should be grave in counsel, so it was expedient young men should be se ret in love; and therefore when the contract was made between Fuluius and his daughter, he sealed up their lips with his signet, meaning, that to violate the secret conference of Lovers, was to commit a second sacrilege. I speak this of Eliosto, as one careful of thy state: for if Amazias thy father should but once hear of our love, or suspect our liking, it would breed thy everlasting misery, and my eternal calamity.  
Dispose of our affairs at thy pleasure, but discover not our purposes, if thou hast won the castle, vaunt not on the conquest, if thou hast made a good market, brag not of thy gains, lest by boasting of thy booty, thou hereafter be deprived of thy expectation, and in the mean time be deemed a prattler. And Eliosto, above all men beware of Rawcikew, lest under the shape of a friend he prove in time thy mortal foe, lest his feigned amity prove faithless enmity, that in trusting too much without trial, thou find not treason, and then, though thou repent, yet had-I-wist cometh too late, and so thou wish thou hadst never loved, and I never liked: for his suspicious speculations pretends mistrust, and his praestigious actions discover infidelity. I tell thee Eliosto, in the fairest sands is most fickleness, out of the bravest blossom, most commonly springeth the worst fruit, the finest flower seldom hath the best smell, the most glittering stone hath oftentimes the least virtue, and in the greatest show of good will, lies ofttimes the smallest effect of friendship; in most flattery, lest faith; in the fairest face, the falsest heart; in the smoothest tale, the smallest truth; and in the sweetest gloss, most sour ingratitude. Yea I see that in trust lies treason, that fair words make fools fain, and that the state of such men, is like unto the marigold, which as long as the Sun shineth, openeth her leaves; but with the least cloud beginneth to close, like the Violets in America, which in summer yield an odoriferous smell, and in winter a most pestilent savour: so these parasites in prosp●…ritie profess most, but in adversity perform least. When Fortune favoureth, they laugh, when she frowneth, they lower, at every full sea they flourish, but at every dead neape they fade; like to the fish Palerna, which being perfectly white in the calm, yet turneth passing black at every storm; to the trees in the deserts of Africa that flourish but while the south wind bloweth; or to the Celedonie stone, which retains his virtue no longer than when it is rubbed with gold. Sith than 〈◊〉 (quoth she) there is such falsehood in friendship, and such 〈◊〉 deeds in such painted speeches, shake both Rawcikew off, and other fawning curs, with the flag of Defiance, and from hence forth, try ere thou trust. Tush Cleodora (quoth Eliosto) he that is afraid to venture on the buck, because he is tapisht in the briers, shall never have Hunter's hap; and he that puts his doubt in love for every chance, shall never have lovers luck. Can not the Cat catch mice, without she have a bell hanging at her ear? Can not the Hobby seize on his prey, but he must check? cannot the Spaniel retrieve the Partridge, but he must quest? and cannot we deal so warily, but all the world must wonder at it? Yes, it is a subtle bird that builds among the aerin of hawks, and a shifting sheep that lambs in the Fox's den; and he shall look narrowly that spies me halting. Let my father, not only weigh our works, but our words; and let Rawcik●…w both deem our deeds, and divine our thoughts; and yet I hope we will deal so secretly in our affairs, as neither the one shall have cause to suspect our familiarity, nor the other to detect our affection. And therefore Cleodora, lest (if we be spied) the time and place give occasion of mistrust, I will leave you as I found you, and so farewell.  
Well, these t●…o Lovers plac●…d thus by Fortune in the palace of earthly prosperity, floated so securely in the streams of bliss, as they thought no chips of mischance, might change their present happiness to future heaviness, as long as their privy meetings were kept so secret to themselves. But as they which camno 〈◊〉 fire in the straw are st●…ne blind, so he that cannot see the flame of fancy is a fool. It is hard to cover smoke, but more hard to conceal Love; which these two lovers in tract of time found verified; who as closely as they kept their cloak, yet it was most easy to espy the lining: for fancy secretly restrained, is like the spark covered with ashes, which at length bursteth into a flame. For there passed between Eli●…sto and Cleodora, such amorous glances, such loving looks, such courteous co●…gies, such countenances, and such friendly familiarity, such often meetings, such open salutations, such sighs, such sobs, and such str●…nge passions, as not only Rawclkew, but all the Court (though they poor souls thought to dance in a net, and not be seen) perceived how entirely they loved, and liked each other. Which thing by Rawcikew being descried, as a man whose mind either greatly labouring with the inconstant wind of voluble promotion, or not a little suffocated with the pestilent sting of virulent malice, vowed the contemplation of their proceedings with serpentine vigilancy. Whose determinate intention, by unhappy occasion of the intercedencie of more weighty occurrences, for a season we will not interrupt.   

THE SECOND BOOK.  
WHen the Ambition of aspiring governors obscu●…ed the glory of the Cyp●…ian kingdom, and the Majesty of so famous a Monarchy was rend into petty Regiments: When M●…cedonia, the nurse of Factions, was more infected with inward mutinies, than infested with outward hostility; then Cyprus, still the wonder, erst of immeasurable greatness, now of incomparable baseness; ears●… the joy full receiver of triumphing soldiers, and pompous harbour of renowned Conquerors, now the sorrowful spectacle of Times in constancy, Fortune's spite, and Honour's incertainty: More famous for the ruins of her former dignity, than fortunate in the relics of ambitious fury, was no less troubled with tumults in the wane of her glory, than in the height of her praise; warring with herself, within the compass of her own walls; and moist with the blood of men, streaming through the channels, which renewed the lamentable memory of former miseries: but the greatest extremes are least permanent. Mars thus ruffling in this martial Isle, was crossed by counter-working of some other god: for Cupid grieved that he could fasten no shafts in their flinty hearts, whose ears were stopped from loves in●…icing, by the continual clattering of Armour, a melody not fitting his mother's humour; swore solemnly to alter this, or spend all the shafts in his quiver. Each part wearied with daily massacres, did for a certain time conclude a Truce from Arms.  
Thus had the wily wag means to effect his stratagem: The two chief of these two Factions, had each a child; the one a son, the other a daughter; both so graced with rare qualities of the mind, ●…o endued with perfections of the body, that they seemed the mirror of that age, and wonder of their time. To these ornaments was added the f●…iendly favour of smiling Fortune, so largely bestowed, that the sum of Aristotle's felicity might seem to be in them accomplished. Dihnohin (for so was he named) passing oft in this time of truce by the house of his father's enemy, and viewing Gatesinea, (so was she called) felt himself surprised with a sudden change; and so long he carried love in his eyes, that at last it sunk down to his heart: and his affection was so much the more vehement, how much the less his love seemed possible to be obtained. Gatesinea seeing Dihnohin young and fair, began first earnestly to look, then secretly to like; and lastly, so deeply to love; that as her hap was without hope, so were her passions without patience.  
Thus these two lovers united with an unknown sympathy of affections, smothering their secret thoughts in hateful silence, lived discontent, not knowing how to cure so dangerous a disease. She void of comfort revealed her love to her nurse, praising Dihnohin and complaining of her hard fortune, and the unhappy discord of those two noble families, whose dissension was the only obstacle of her desire. The old nurse, though sorry that her young mistress was so affected, yet thinking it impossible to alter her settled resolution, did apply a medicine of comfort, to mitigate the extremity of her sorrow; not using dissuasions, for well she knew, that striving to quench the fire, she should more increase the flame.  
But Dihnohin seeking access unto his mistress, found (for what ●…annot Love achieve) that the chamber of Gatesinea being in the back part of her father's house, stood towards a garden, having one window looking into a little narrow lane, through which none, or very few, and they very seldom did pass.  
When Titan hasting to plunge his fiery chariot in The●…is lap, had gladded Oceanus with his return, the tor●…ented L●…uer taking a Lute in his hand, went to the place, which so late he found, and there did in sad melody sound forth his sorrows.  
Gat●…sinea wondering to hear music at her window, looked out, and discerned her beloved Dihnohin; whose affections when she saw like her own, she was ravished with incredible joys, and had presently uttered some sign of her content, had not maidenly modesty, and the presence of her nurse stayed her: who persuaded her, that having Dihnohin at the advantage, she should not so easily offer her love, lest he might little esteem it, having so lightly got it. The perplexed Lover repairing oft to his accustomed place, with more pleasure to Gatesinea, than content to himself, resolved in the end, to make a full trial of his good or bad fortune, and no more to use s●…ch dumb demonstrations. Coming therefore late, as he was wont, to the window, he tarried till he perceived by some signs, that his mistress was come into her chamber, accompanied only with her nurse: then fingering his Lute, and framing his voice, he uttered this passionate Ditty, making every rest, a deepe-fetched sigh.  

dihnohin's S●…nnet.  
I rashly v●…w'd (f●…nd wretch why did I so?)  
When I was free, that Love should not enthrall me:  
Ah f●…lish b●…ast, the cause of all my woe,  
And this misfortune that d●…th now b●…fall me.  
loves God i●…cens'd, did 〈◊〉 th●…t I should smart,  
That done, he shot, and str●…cke me to the heart.   

Sweet was the wound but bitter was the pain●…  
Sweet is the bondage to so fair a creature,  
Ifcoie thoughts d●…e not Beauty's brightness stain,  
Nor cruelty wrong so divine a feature.  
Lou●…, pity me, and let it quite my cost,  
By Love to find, what I by Love have lost.   

heavens pride, Earth's wonder, Nature's p●…erelesse choice,  
Fair harbour of my souls dec●…ying gladness,  
Yield him some ease, whose faint and trembling voice,  
Doth sue for pitti●… overwhelmed with sadness.  
In thee it rests, fair Saint, to save or spill  
His life, whose love is led by Reasons will.   
Scarce had he finished this sorrowful Sonnet, when Gatesinea opening the casement, cast him down a Garland, compacted of sundry sweet smelling flowers, which she had gathered in her father's garden, making that her afternoons task. Dihnohin taking up the favour which his Mistress had thrown him, and redoubling many kisses on that e●…e-pleasing object, departed the happiest alive, proud that she had applauded his humour, and graced his conceit with so ●…ire a guerdon. But Gatesinea restless in her passions, could not be satisfied, till she had conceived some possible means of Dihnohins, and her meeting. Love the whetstone of wit, brought this possibility to a plain likelihood; and proceeding a step farther, made this likelihood seem a certainty, and thus it was: she had a door out of her chamber into the garden, and out of the garden there was a little door that opened into the narrow lane, whither Dihnohin was accustomed to come, who being that way let in, they might, as she thought, there safely confer of their love. This doubt only rested, how Dihnohin might be certified of Gatesineas devise; which task the Nurse undertook, promising such care in the delivery of he●… message, that no suspicion should thence arise. Which promise she fully performed, and knowing that great trouble might grow of that enterprise, if she 〈◊〉 the enemy of Dihnohi●…s father, and waiting on his daughter, were seen openly to talk with Dihnohin, she used such wariness and secrecy, that he was by her cer●…ified of gatesina's purpose, without suspicion or discovery of her intent. Dihnohin liberally rewarded the nurse for her lucky tidings, willing her to do his humble duty to his mistress, and assure her of his diligent attendance at the appointed time & place. The two lovers longing for night's approach, thought Phoebus envying their bliss, did slack his course more than he was wont, declining too slowly. But when a general darkness had overspread the earth, and days light was eclipsed by Titan's departure to the other Hemisphere, Dihnohin coming to the garden door, was let in by the Nurse, and lovingly received of Gat●…sinea. What greetings were used when the two lovers met, they can best conceive that have known like fortune. But when common ceremonies of courtesy had passed between them, they retired into the Arbour, and the Nurse withdrew herself from them: there they discoursed their love each to other, and finding their affections equal, they mutually rejoiced.  
Dihnohin folded in the arms of his mistress, and kissing her at his pleasure, thought himself in a second heaven: but presuming to proceed further: Gatesinea, whether pleased, or offended with his amorous attempts, I know not, half in anger thrust back his hand, saying, that as she loved him, so she regarded her honour. Whereto Dihnohin replied, that he tendered her honour more than his own life; protesting that if she would vouchsafe to accept him ●…or her husband (the only means to establish their love, and preserve her name from blemish) that then there should want in him no endeavours to do her service, with more affection than he could express. This fell out as Gat●…sinea wished, and therefore she granted that which so much he desired; the Nurse was called for a witness, in whose presence Dihnohin gave Gatesinea a ring.  
Thus were the Nuptials secretly finished, not graced with the presence of Hymen, the Precedent of marriage rites, but thwarted with the fatal influence of some unlucky Planet, comically begun, tragically ended, and both in the dreadful silence of the darksome night. Thus they being Man an Wife, or at least, so seeming to themselves, Gatesinea with her new spouse, returned into her bedchamber, and the nurse departing; both dis-robing themselves, entered in one bed, and did freely possess the full frui●…ion of that, which he so earnestly pursued, she so willingly granted, and both so much desired.  
When day appeared, and Phoebus posting from the Antip●…des, had remounted the Eastern hill, and burnished Heaven with his glittering beams, Dihnohin leaving his mistress, departed that way by which he came. In this sort they long enjoyed each others company, till Fortune, loves sworn enemy shadowed their bliss, with a cloud of mishap. dihnohin's father, secing him well grown in years, having past the spring time of his childhood, told him on a time, he had provided him a wife, worthy his better, both for birth and wealth.  
Dihnohin astonished at these words, stood like one of those whom Perseus with his Gorgon's head transformed into stones: but being forced to answer, he told his father that he had settled his fancy, and made his choice in another place: his father furiously demanding where, he fearfully, though with many delays, revealed his love to Gatesinea. The old man being in a rage, commanded him forthwith to depart his house; threatening beside, to dispossess and disinherit him. Dihnohin seeing his father in these terms, thought it best to dissemble; and craving pardon, submitted himself wholly to his direction: who glad to see his son in su●…h a vain of obedience, thought it not good to use delays, but presently dispatched the marriage, fearing a sudden change of so sudden a conformity.  
Thus Dihnohins second espousals being finished, he surcharged with sorrow, wro●…e a letter to Gatesinea, containing a sad ●…ehearsall of that unlucky accident, imputing all to the ●…orce o●… his father's threats, still promising and protesting that she only had the possession of his heart; and vowing, that no sooner the breath should be out of his father's body, but he would reject his new loathed wife, and receive her, and so ending all discord, join the two factions in one. Lastly, he advertised her, what time she should expect his coming. This letter Dihnohin caused to be conveyed to her by a trusty messenger. Gatesinea having received and perused it, was overwhelmed with such unwonted sorrow, that she swooned presently, and hardly could the sorrowful Nurse recall her fainting spirits: but when she was come again to herself, jealousy the mother of extreme hate, turned her tears into threats, and converted her feminine anger into flat fury. Thus resolving on revenge, she awaited a fit time to effect her tragical purpose. Dihnohin failed not to come at the appointed time, and being let into the garden by the Nurse, was received at the chamber door by Gatesinea, to whom he made a long excuse of his fault committed, attributing it to the fear of his father's menaces: she, though gripped with grief, used such moderation in her outward gesture, that Dihnohin could not guess her thoughts by her looks, nor conjecture her passions by her speeches. Night being far spent, they went both to bed, where Dihnohin desirous to renew his wonted sports, was hindered by Gatesinea, who told him that he should no more have the fruition of that favour, till he had made her a sufficient recompen●…e for the fault committed: he half discontent with this repulse, turned aside to take his last and longest sleep; whereinto when he was entered, she perceiving him so sound settled, that he could not easily be awaked, rose up, and taking a knife which for that purpose she had laid under the beds head, she stabbed him cruelly to the heart, saying thus; Most treacherous heart, the faithless harbour of disloyal thoughts, receive the fatal guerdon due to thy deserts, I will not die unrevenged as Dido, nor live discontent as Medea, who failed in the sex, and therefore in the certainty of her revenge, Qui fecit patitur. That said, she redoubled her bloody stroke, casting a steerne aspect on poor Dihnohin, which lay weltering in his blood▪ What temorceless●… Scythian, or savage Tartarian, nourished in the deserts beyond Tanais, could have beheld so ruthful a spectacle, and not be pierced with compassion? Yet she, whose heart was more impenetrable than the adamant, seemed to triumph in his tragedy, loading his dying ears with reproachful terms, and accusing him of disloyalty: at which word Dihnohin lifting up his eyes (though scarce he could lift them) seemed with a mild countenance to sue for pardon, in the extremity of his punishment: but when she still frowned, he fetched a deep sigh from the bottom of his grieved heart, making that the last period of his love and life. Scarce had the long imprisoned soul leaving the senseless mould of earthly dross, returned to the blissful harbour whence it descended, when she the ruthless revenger of her own cruelty, did with that knife which deprived Dihnohin of loves joy, bereave herself of lives comfort, and inflicting a deadly wound, fell backward on the bed, fetching a grievous groan. The watchful Nurse whose ears were open to this unwelcome sound, fearing that which was too true, and doubting the welfare of her young mistress, came hastily into the chamber, where seeing Gatesinea in that pitiful plight, she stood astonished at so tragical a chance; yet hoping that the stroke was not mortal, nor the danger past recovery, she came to her, endeavouring to stop the wound. But Gatesinea drawing near her end, violently thrust her back, saying thus; Wonder not, for ●…e hath his desert, and I my desire; which words being spoken, she gave up the ghost. The aged Nurse which did more than hear, for she plainly saw (though wishing s●…ee had not seen) this unlucky accident, did screech so loud, that all they of the house awaked by her sudden outcry, rose from their rest: and first gatesinea's father started up, whose troubled thoughts presaged some future mishap. Nor is it marvel that he did darkly foreknow, though he could not plainly foresee so hard a chance: for as the smoke issues before the fire flames, the lightning is seen before the thunder be heard, the Sea swell before a tempest arise, so the mind of man, whose continual motion, is an infallible argument of a divine and immortal essence, droops before danger. The dismayed old man slipping on his nightgown, hastened his aged steps toward his daughter's chamber; where finding her dead, holding the bloody knife in her hand, and seeing his enemy's son in the same bed with her, slain likewise; what he thought, I refer to those that having one only jewel, their lives solace, and soul's comfort, are thereof deprived by the malice of fortune.  
But he distracted with sundry passions, sometimes lamented his daughter's misfortune, sometimes he threatened the trembling nurse, than he bewailed the downfall of his house, wanting an heir, and the extinguished memory of his name for lack of succession. The silly woman falling on her knees before him, besought him to defer his pretended revenge on her, till she had unfolded the cause and manner of that sorrowful event: which granted, she rehearsed their loves, meetings, secret nuptials, his second marriage enforced by his angry father's threats, and her desperate resolution of revenge. This short and sorrowful discourse thus finished, she half dead with age before, now clean dead with fear, yielded her spirit to him which gave it. The next morning, when the report of this rare misfortune was bruited through the city, the street wherein gatesinea's father dwelled, was so pestered with the concourse of people, that scarce any passage could be found. This thus passing for currant news through every man's mouth, dihnohin's father was soon advertised of it by the general rumour; who, though astonished ●… so rare a chance, yet suffered this misfortune with more courage than his years could afford, knowing that his enemy's fortune was no better than his own.  
Thus did the parents bear the children's hap, whose ghosts are now met in the shady grove of Myrtle trees, fronting the Elyzian fields; that dreadful grove, the eternal mansion of those unhappy lovers, which witness their loyalty to loves hests, by sacrificing their own blood, and making their own bodies oblations: and it was time, for till then his Deity was despised, his Altars empty, his Temples not frequented.  

This grove planted is in Hell,  
Darker grove was never seen:  
Where life-loathing Lovers dwell,  
Hapless have those Lovers been:  
Such oblations beauties treasure,  
Love receives with joy and pleasure.   
But this only chance did mollify their indurate hearts, which were before so inflamed with private malice, that they loathed public agreement, But seeing in this infortunate couple, the lamentable effects of their dissension, they suddenly left Arms, & joining their hands, whose hearts had been so long disjoined, they let fall their weapons, & embraced concord, the sovereign stay of common weals. These two sorrowful fathers, earstfoes, and now by this misfortune made friends, were chief mourners at their children's funerals; who being united by loves laws, had Loves right: for though their minds were at their deaths divided, yet were their bodies both in one tomb enclosed. Amazias was not so much perplexed at the information of these tidings, as well pleased, that at length these seditious storms of ambitious envy, were through an inviolable league of amiti●… qualified, and quietly ended. The King, as he himself thought thus blest with earthly favours, doubted no misfortune, for he could see no way for him to mishap: nay if he had been wise, he might the more have feared misery; in that he was so fully pampered up with felicity. Fortune, yea fortune in favouring him, made him most infortunate. Syren-like, hiding under music, misery; under pleasure, pain; under mirth, mourning: like the sugared honeycomb, which while a man toucheth, he is stung with Bees. She presenteth fair shapes, which prove but fading shadows; she proffereth mountains, and perhaps keepeth promise: but the gains of these golden mines, is loss and misery. None road on Sejanus horse, which got not some mishap: none touched the gold 〈◊〉 Tholossa, whom some disaster chance likewise did not assail: neither hath any been advanced by Fortune, which in time hath not been crossed with some hapless calamity. These things the King found answerable unto verity, the issue whereof, brought no less unto him, than the utter ruin, and sudden confusion of his kingdom. For Rawcikew living in his court, noting (as I said before) eliosto's entertainment by Cleodora, his more than ordinary observation of duty, her affectionate opinion of him, and his assiduate repair unto her lodging, and his long abode with her; gathered by these circumstances, how that the convoy of their proceedings, was but for the obscurity of affection, with whom beyond credit, it was most brutish, and out of measure unreasonable.  
Wherefore continuing his vigilant observations, in the end he discovered the very secrecy of their attempts, to the great satisfaction of his blood-thirsty spirits. Now (quoth he) since their sins are come to the ripeness of their abomination, I vow by that bright Lamp heavens ornament, that speedy information shall be given to the King, that so their wanton and lascivious incontinency, may be liable to the punishing rack of justices severity: and for this purpose, he attending the benign leisure of opportunity, it chanced as Amazias two or three days after walked towards the stable, for the view of his horse, that then the infortunate Prince, blinded with the folly of impetuous concupiscence, assailed his mother after the inordinate pleasures which have been heretofore sufficiently declared.  
But their Argus which slept not at all, in a furious ecstasy posting to the king, presently conducted him to such a place, where he was the perfect spectator of their most vicious & d●…ested practices. The king hardly moderating the vehemency of his rage from breaking the door upon them, betook himself to his closet, where being cumbered with choleric cogitations, and perplexed with despiteful passions, inflamed with wrathful fury, he fell into these terms. Now (quoth he) I prove by experience the saying of Sophocles to be true, that the man which hath many children shall never live without some mirth, nor die without some sorrow, for if they be virtuous, he shall have cause whereof to rejoice, if vicious, whereof to be sad; which saying by this spectacle I try performed in myself: for I have but one child (which should have been the inheritor of my kingdom) I see so addicted unto vanity, that he is a fretting corrosive to my wounded heart. For what grief is there more pinching? what cross more pernicious? what pain more griping? what plague more cumbersome? yea, what trouble can torment me worse, than to see my son to have consumed his time in riot after this manner, following wilfully the fury of his own frantic fancy. O that the date of his birth had been the day of his burial! or that by some si●…ister storm of fortune he had been stifled on his mother's knees, so that his untimely death might have prevented my ensuing sorrows, and his future calamities: For I see that the young fry will always prove old frogs, that the crooked twig will prove a crabbed tree, how that which is bred in the bone, will not easily out of the flesh, that he which is careless in youth, will be less careful in age, that where in prime of years vice reigneth, there in mature age iniquity beareth sway. Why Amazias if thou seest the ●…ore, why dost thou not apply the salve? and if thou perceivest the mischief, why dost thou not prevent it with a sublimatum? Take away the cause, and the effect faileth; if Eliosto be the cause of thy ruth, cut him off betimes, lest he bring thee to ruin, better hadst thou want a son, than never want sorrow. Perhaps thou wilt suffer him so long till he fall sick of the father, and then he will not only seek thy lands and possessions, but life and all, if thou in time p●…euent not his purpose: yea, and after thy death he will be, through his lascivious life, the oue●…throw of thy house, the consumer of thy kingdom, the wrack of thy commonweal, and the very man that s●…al bring the state of Cyprus to mischief and misery. S●…th then thy son is such a sink of sorrows, in whose li●… lies hid a loathsome mass of wretched mishaps, cut him off as a graceless graft, unworthy to grow out of such a Stock. Alas, most miserable and lamentable case! would to God (as I said) the Destinies had decreed his death in the swadling-clowts, or that the Fates had prescribed his end in his infancy; then should not I myself have been (as I will be) so unnatural, as to seek the spoil of mine own child; or more savage than the bruit beasts, in committing such cruelty.  
Hereupon Amazias stumbling as fast as he could to his Peers, revealed unto them the whole cause of his distress, requiring their favourable assistance in these his determinate proceedings. Who with rage incensed, promising in what thing soever, their allegiance: he commanded that his wife, and Eliosto should be carried to strait prison, until they heard further of his pleasure. The Gua●…d unwilling to lay their hands upon their Queen and Prince, and yet fearing the King's fury, went very sorrowful to fulfil their charge. Coming to the Queen's lodging, they found her playing with her son, and other Ladies, at Cards; unto whom, with tears doing their message, Eliosto and Cleodora were astonished at such a hard censure; and finding their galled consciences sure advocates to plead in their cases, went to Limbo most willingly: where with sighs and tears they passed away the time till they might come to their trial. Especially Cleodora, who after she had almost blubbered out her eyes for grief, fell at length into this passion. Infortunate Cleodora; and therefore infortunate, because thy sorrows are more than thy years, and thy distress too heavy for the prime of thy youth. Are the Heavens so unjust, the Stars so dismal, the Planets so injurious, that they have more contrary oppositions, than favourable aspects? that their influence doth infuse more prejudice, than they can infer profit? Then no doubt, if their motions be so malign, Saturn conspiring with all baleful signs, calculated the hour of thy birth full of disaster accidents. Ah Cleodora, thou mayst see, the birds that are hatched in winter, are nipped with every storm, such as fly against the Sun, are either scorched or blinded, and those that repugn against nature, are ever crossed by Fortune. Thy faithful servant Lucilla foresaw these evils, and warned thee by experience, thou reiectedst her counsel, and therefore art bitten with repentance: Such as look not before they leap, oft fall into the ditch, and they that scorn admonition, can not possibly avoid punishment. The young tigers follow the braying of their old sire, the tender fawns choose their food by the old Buck. These bruit beasts, and without reason, stray not from the limits of nature; thou a woman and endued with reason, art therefore thus sorrowful, because thou hast been unnatural. Better hadst thou been borne a Beggar than a Prince, so shouldst thou have bridled Fortune with want, where now she sporteth herself with thy plenty. Ah happy life, where poor thoughts, and mean desires live in secure content, not fearing fortune because too low. For fortune thou seest now Cleodora, that Care is a companion to Honour, not to Poverty, that high Cedars are frushed with tempests, when low shrubs are not touched with the wind: precious diamonds are cut with the file, when despised pearls lie safe in the sands; Delphos is sought by Princes, and not by Beggars, and Fortune's Altars smoke with King's presents, not with poor men's gifts. Happy are they Cleodora, that curse Fortune for contempt, not for fear; and may wish they were, not sorrow they have been. Thou art a Princess, and yet a prisoner, borne to the one by descent, assign●…d to the other by despite; accused not without cause, and therefore oughtest to die without care; for patience is a shield against fortune. Ah but infamy galleth unto death, and liveth after death: Report is plumed with Time's feathers, and Envy oftentimes soundeth Fame's trumpet; thy detected incest shall fly in the air, and thy known virtues shall lie hid in the earth: One mole staineth a whole face, and what is once spotted with infamy, can hardly be worn out with Time. Die then Cleodora, Cleodora die; for if the gods should say, thou art guiltless, yet Envy would hear the gods, but never believe the gods. After that, she had many sighs, and sobs, & most bitter tears, passed over many melancholy thoughts; one while seeing death ready to execute the last part of sorrow, another while seeing sorrow increasing; now looking towards heaven, and anon seeing the kind of hell that she lived in; now reviving with a hope of some unlooked for happiness, and by and by stroke dead with the despair of all hope almost whatsoever. In fine, so beset with sorrow, as she had almost no thought of comfort, in the midst of all this misery, throwing herself upon her bed, after she had lain a while, musing upon her incomparable crosses, she took pen, and ink, and paper, and as a woman half distraught, wrote this issue of her humour, being indeed a fancy which that learned Author N. B. hath dignifi●…d with respect.  

Among the gro●…s, the woods and thicks,  
The bushes, brambles, and the briars,  
The shrubs, the stubbes, the thorns, and pricks,  
The ditches, plashes, lakes and miers.   

Where fish nor fowl, nor bird nor beast,  
Nor living thing may take delight,  
Nor reasons rage may look for rest,  
Till heart be dead of hateful spite.   

Within the ca●…e of cares unknown,  
Where hope of comfort all decays,  
Let me with s●…rrow sit alone,  
In dole●…ull thoughts to end ●…y days.   

And when I hear●… the storms ari●…e,  
That troubled Ghosts do leave the grave;  
With hellish ●…ounds of horr●…rs ●…ries,  
Let m●… g●…c look o●… of my ca●….   

And when I feel what pains they bide,  
That do the greatest torm●…nts pro●…e,  
Then let not me the sorrow hide,  
That I have suffered by my love.   

Where losses, crosse●… c●…re and g●…iefe,  
W●…th 〈◊〉, 〈◊〉 h●…full hate,  
Witho●…t all hope of haps relief,  
D●…e tug and tear the heart to nought:  
B●… sigh●… and 〈◊〉 and si●…g, and sw●…are,  
It is too much for one to bear.   
When she had ended thus her passion, I mean in writing, carelessly she left it in her chamber; where-t●…e Ia●…lor finding it fallen on the floor, as a thing of little account; when he had perused and taken a true copy of it, he secretly lost it where he found 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that if the King knew her extremities, he would somewh●…t a●…pease his fury, and release her from prison Cleodora was not more distressed with dolour, than poor Eliosto was cumbered with care, to see so strange ●… chance, and so sudden a change; that he, who of late was a royal Prince, was now a distressed captive; that his liberty was turned to ●…etters; his dignity, to misery; and his happy state, to a most hellish condition▪ th●…t after floods of tears which fell from his crystal e●…es, he burst forth into these tea●…mes Alas (quoth he) what human creature was ever driven into such doubtful calamities? what Prince was ever perplexed with such doleful●… passions? what man was ever crossed with such aduer●…tie? nay, what wight ever was clogged with the like 〈◊〉 have the spiteful D●…stinies decreed my destruction, or th●… 〈◊〉 Pl●…nets conspired my bitter overthrow? doth perverse Fortune mean to make me a mirror of mutabil●…e, ●…r is this the reward that Cupid bestows upon his Clients? is every one that doth fancy, maimed with the like misf●…rtune? or is Love always accompanied with such 〈◊〉 luck? Alas, no, for their Love is lawful, and mine le●…d a●…d lascivious; their fancy is fixed upon ve●…tue, and min●…●…pon vanity; they make their m●…tch wit●… eq●…lity, and 〈◊〉 ●…arket with my father's 〈◊〉: so that I ●…m ●…ike ●…n choosing such chaffer, to chop and change, and live by the loss; ye●… to buy re●…entance at an unreasonable rate. But no●… I s●…e the Sun being at the highest, declineth; the Se●… 〈◊〉 at the full tide, ●…bbeth; calm continueth not lo●…●…out a storm, ne●…ther is happiness had long wit●…out mo●…rning, bliss wit●…out woe, weal without 〈◊〉▪ 〈◊〉 without sorrow. For who o●… late so floated in the ●…loods of prosperity as I which now by the sin●…ster means o●… frowning Fortune, am soused in theseas of oppression? exalted of late to the highest degree of felicity, am now driven to the greatest extremity of e●…ill; of late puffed up with prosperity, and now pushed down with adversity; yea o●… late placed in Paradise, and now plunged in perplexity Oh E●…, if thy f●…indes fatherly precepts might have persuaded thee, if their advices had been thy advertisements, and thou hadst car●…fully kept their counsels; then by their forewarning, thou hadst been fore armed against all mishap and misery. The force offick●…e fancy had not then gi●…en t●…ee the f●…ile; Love had not so lightly procured ●…hy loss, nor the painted show of beauty had ●…o soon procured ●…hy destruction. With that taking a Lute in his ●…nd, upon a deep consideration of his former follies, and pr●…sent fortunes, 〈◊〉 sung this Roundelay, which it seems his dignity had borrowed of a worthy w●…iter.  

Eliost●…s Roundelay.  
Sitting 〈◊〉 sigh●…ng in my secret muse,  
As onc●… Apollo did, 〈◊〉 with Love,  
No●…ing the 〈◊〉 ●…aies young year●…s do●… vs●…,  
〈◊〉 fond affect●… 〈◊〉 p●…ime of youth d●…th 〈◊〉:  
W●…th 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, de●…pairing I d●…e cry,  
Wo●… worth the ●…aulis and 〈◊〉 of mine 〈◊〉.   

When wanton age, the blossom of my time,  
Drew me to gaze upon the gorgeous sight,  
That Beauty pompous in her highest prime,  
Presents to tangle men with sweet delight:  
Then with despairing tears my thoughts do cry,  
Woe worth the fau●…ts and follies of mine ei●….   

When I surveyed the riches of her looks,  
Whereout flew flames of never quenched desire,  
Wherein lay baires, that Venus' snares with hooks,  
Or where proud Cupid sat, all armed with fire:  
Then touched with Love, my inw●…rd soul did cri●…,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine eye.   

The milk white Galaxia of her brow,  
Where Love doth dance Lavoltaes of his skill,  
Like to the Temple where true Lovers vow,  
To follow what shall please their mistress will:  
Noting her ivory front, now do I cry,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine eye.   

Her face like silver Luna in her shine,  
All tainted through with bright vermilion strains,  
Like Lilies dipped in Bacchus' choicest wine,  
Powdered and inter-seamed with azur'd veins:  
Delighting in their pride, now may I cry,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine eye.   

The golden wires that checkers in the day,  
Inferior to the tresses of her hair,  
Her Ambertrammels did my heart dismay,  
That when I look●…, I durst not over-dare:  
Proud of her pride, now I am forced to cry,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine eye.   

These fading Beauties drew me on to sin, 
Disce sen●… virtutem ex me M. Ed. ex Coll. Reg. in Ox.   
Nature's great riches framed my bitter ruth,  
These were the traps that Love did snare me in,  
Oh these, and none but these have wrecked my youth!  
Misled by them, I may despairing cry,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine eye.   

By those I slipped from virtues holy 〈◊〉,  
That leads into the highest crystal 〈◊〉,  
By these I fell to vanity and wrack,  
And as a man forlorn with sin and fear:  
Despair and sorrow doth constrain me cry,  
Woe worth the faults and follies of mine ei●….   
After that Eliosto had uttered this Sonnet in the bitterness of mind, word was brought him by certain Officers, that the King having thoroughly canvased, with his Counsel, the notorious dislike of his incestuous transgressions, hath found it unpardonable; and so my Lord (quoth they) you must prepare yourself for death, for to morrows light must consummate the period both of yours, and cleodora's days.  
I embrace the sentence (quoth Eliosto) most willingly: and now thou Saturn's black son, do thy worst; for I am altogether unable to sustain any longer so grievous a burden as I do. I perceive that the more with patience I strive to allay the heat of my exulcerate torments, the more the smothered cinders revive in quenchless flames, flames that Aetna-like boil in my breast, resembling the horrors of mount Chibelloes' fiery rage, which vomits millions of vapours, and darts heaps of sulphur from the glowing centre. In a word, when the dark night had overspread the earth with ●…er black mantle, Amazias overcharged with sorrow, could take no rest, but passing the time in brinish tears, lamented the exceeding great folly of his son, in that he would after so licentious a manner so desperately precipitate himself into danger; but neither the ardent persuasions of his Nobles, nor yet fatherly affection could diue●…t him from his bloody determination. The next morning, the people leaving their lodgings betimes, went to the place where the execution should be, and there pro●…ded themselves an easy room without the 〈◊〉; for within them none might stand, (the Nobleses and their necessary Attendants excepted:) with them infinite troops of the assemb●…ed strangers, hasted to prevent Tuan, who shaking his dewy locks on the mountains, posted from the watery cabbi●… of Nereus, to be an early viewer of these tragi●…all spectacles. But ere he had measured a te●…th proportion of ●…is daily pace, the Peers suited in long sable robes, with wreaths of Cyprus branches, consecrated to Cypar●…ssus, encompassing their temples, came forward, and with them other inferior assistants, clad in their mourning garments, each attending upon his several charge. Next these came Eliost●… and Cleodora, consisting of the fairest of both ●…indes, flourishing in the prime of their youth, and in the●… ride of their beauty, attired all in long black ornaments trailing after them, wearing on their heads, garla●…ds of odoriferous flowers. Who being arrived upon the scaffold, after the finishing of the ceremonial rites, yielded up their lives unto the fatal stroke of justice.  
These two patients being thus executed; during the time for the preparation of rich and solemn funerals, they were for a public observation brought into the base court of the Palace, to the great grief of all the beholders. After this, the King caused a royal and sumptuous furniture to be celebrated for their obsequies, and with such honour as their dign●…ties required; whom burying in the 〈◊〉 of Saint Lawren●…, he erected a stately Mau●…olaenm to ●…ee the common bed of those bodies, whose hearts (when they were alive) were so firmly conjoined together. And lest the●…e s●…ould be left any thing 〈◊〉 in this trag●…al accident, Lucilla for the unspeakable 〈◊〉 of her mist. esse, did drown herself, for whom a stately bath was prepared in ever burning Phlegeton.   

The Conclusion.  
Such was the success of this rare oft-thwarted love, which my over bold pen hath presumed thus rudely to decipher. If any decorum be omitted, or indecorum committed, I cannot otherwise excuse it (cu●…teous Readers) then by your favours; which will, I hope, bear with such imperfections, and not impute it to mine own desert, which was loath to polish a toy, whereon I never bestowed more labour, than ●…ometimes an idle hour of recreation.   
Gratias Deo uni & trino.