loves Lodestar. LIVELY DECIphered in a History no less commendable than comfortable, for all those that in their lovely affections, have by the enmity of their friends, been molested with the menacing meteors of crossing misfortunes. Leading also all kind and true Lovers, that in their choices are frowned at by froward Parents, unto the portfull Paradise of pleasured Patience, and patient Pleasures.  
By Robert Kittowe, student.  Ignavis nulla corona datur. 
LONDON Printed by Th. Creed dwelling in the Old Change, at the sign of the Eagle and Child, near Old Fish-street. 1600.   

The Author to both the captious and the courteous Reader, health.  

Reader revolve not rashly any work,  
On which thy curious eye doth chance to look;  
Better not read, than (when thou readst) to lurk  
Even Critique-like, to braid an Author's book,  
Regard with soldiers toil, the Students pain:  
That little good hath; often this, less gain.   

Know, that the finest Lawn, hath chequered strikes,  
In purest Wines, some hoary dregs are seen;  
The squamie rust, verdure from Iron takes;  
The fairest Rose, with prickles plucked hath been:  
One shaft, what Archer may not shoot amiss?  
What work so well, that nowhere faulty is?   
Farewell. Rob. Kittowe.   

TO ALL GENErous Gentlemen, that favour the springing Flowers of Arts bodily health, and eternal happiness.  
GEntles, I have (with your favours) deciphered a Lodestar, in whose gleams shine good will, & whose glory is made splendent with loyal loves only grace. Sometime when Eagles have tried their young Birds with the Sunbeams, they will direct their undazeled eyes to gaze at the bright gleams of Poets, a less star; whose twinkling sparkelings may increase their disports. And (generous hearts) if your eyes that have viewed the glorious Sunshine of Arts graces, deign (after the natures of those mighty and magnanimous birds) to behold the dim twinkling of this unperfect Lodestar; you shall not only hereafter give life to my labours, but by your gentle acceptance, make me bold to adventure the archtecture of some worthier work. The subject, which serves for the Zodiac to this wandering Star (which continues the yearly course of the day-star, through the twelve Astronomical signs) is but mean; and therefore deserves no costly colours to make it seem splendent: If then it please any, so much (I account it the better) reckon it you estimable, by how much it can displease none. It may be some Zoylist will bark (as do Wolves against the Moon) following against it the humorous phrase of the base backbiter (all whose birds seeming to himself Swans, and other winged fowls but night Crows) vomits forth to his own shame, what he supposeth should disgrace others credits: and wanting teeth (as doth the infectious Serpent Porphyrius) not being able to bite, is by his suscepted envious conceit (engendered of the supposition of his own singularity (himself mostly martyred. And what maisterdome is it to nip blossoms in their first spring? Can young birds fly till they prove and try to ply their wings? Better kill Flies with a flap, than be idle; greater credit, to play small game with his own charge, than great sums at a cast, to others cost; and more commendable, to accomplish plain labours, than to be reckoned 'mongst his acquaintance and friends for a sluggish loiterer. These weak reasons (Gentlemen) builded on a good ground, may not be denied to go for currant, towards the free pass of this my pilgrimlike Star, through the climate of your acceptable eyes: whose wandering course when you behold, if you like it, love it; if dislike it, I pray, leave it; It hath ta'en arising by Astronomical computation, at the first beginning of the gay Springtide, the 9 of March last passed, in the 1599 year of the worlds redemption (noted by the virtue of an Eastern Star to three Sages) and from the worlds first creation, and the days of old Adam, 5562. when the Sun took his direct entrance (following his accustomed progress) towards the first minute of Aries: which sign Astronomers about that tide term Equinoctial, because then (when the Sun enters therein) the days which in length were before shorter than the nights, become with them checke-mate in equal Longitude. The natural heat & moisture of which pleasant time, makes every creature (as well unreasonable as reasonable) to receive comfort; and in their kind, to increase and multiply. When the chanting birds echo in the woods and fields, many a delectable kerelie; when the earth arrayed in her pride, and decked with divers colours, yields admiration to those, that contemplate on nature's ornaments; which far surpass the reach of heaven-searching Art: And when, what pleasure may be obtained in Gardens (dyapred with sundry sorts of flourishing Roses and Flowers) or what solace, to see the springing meads and pastoral Countries; and what health may be had by following Physic rules; is both sought and practised. The worst is, that the conjunction then of jupiter and Saturn (noting a corruptness of the air) may be conjectured that many shall be tormented with a choleric & melancholy frenzy; which disease if it chance to breed enmity 'mongst the friends of mutual Lovers, may hap to increase their grievous sorrows. Thus much I thought most convenient to have noted, as a Praeludium to the original and first arising of this Lodestar, whose lustres (Gentles) I doubt not, but your kind aspects beholding, will endeavour to make it seem resplendent and rarely bountiful.  
Yours well-wishing, Rob. Kittowe.   

loves Lodestar.  
AT what time (as the Historical Records of ancient Anualls make mention) the King of Tunis, through the attempting bravadoes of some insulting Rebels, held the hold of his royal seat in hazard, as daily awaiting his downfall, drawn through civil wars, and warlike mutinies: There lived in Palermo, the chief City of Scicilia, two most renowned Families, by whose speedy helps and strong supports, both for men and Munition, provided and sent forth both by sea & land, the distressed Kings enemies were mightily discomfited, and far discarded from his territories of Tunis, and he himself quietly repossessed his right: to the no small comfort of the rebellious foe.  
For the Sicilian suffrages were so copious, and so correspondent to the King's petition, wholly passionate for want of peace, as that the Rebels being convinced and utterly subjecteth, were so scattered here and there with the sudden assault of fly, fly, as that some ran to the matchless mountains, and there wrought on themselves ruthful massacres: Others sought out shelters in the wild Forests, and there for want offend, and surprised with fear of wild beasts, remained in the jaws of dreadful death: Others as extravagant vagabonds exiled themselves from their native homes into foreign lands: and fearing their own Country would prove too hot for their rebellious hearts: Others became Galleyslaves, Rovers and Pirates at sea, venturing the mean of their best lives, twixt Scylla & ravenous Charybdis: few submitting to their Liege, for fear of the penalty of law: yet few or none through the just decree of the dooming heavens escaping punishment.  
This inestimable benefit by the two Sicilian Nobles bestowed on this peace-minding King, wrought no small league of friendship and friendly amity, both twixt Tunis and Scicilia: so far forth, that whatsoever enemy seemed repugnant to the one, was accounted rebellious to the other: both esteeming themselves most fortunate, that ever the tantaras of wars so reigned, as to make their perdurable and plighted peace on both parties so worthily royalized 'mongst other nations, and their neighbour Countries.  
The two famous, honourable and renowned Sicilian Families, that were with all prosperities so majestically fortified, were Signior jacomin Pierro, and Don Alexander Bartolo; whom Nature and Fortune seeking to enrich in the highest measure with prodigal gifts, strained themselves so far, as that Fortune could bestow no more wealth, for they reigned haile-copemates with kings; nor Nature any more worth, for that two sweet offsprings brought to both parties more pleasure, than do the massy heaps of golden wealth comfort unto the covetous.  
Signior Pierra had a son, and Don Bartolo a daughter, the one as lively, as the other was lovely; both adorned and beautified with all exquisite perfections both of body & mind.  
And here (Gentles) would I will you to have some worthy Pharus erected, for the better direction of your longing spirits, to view the variable motion of this wandering Loadestarre: eyeing whose course, your eyes will be carried beyond ken of some credulity: your ears be replenished with the divers sounds of material variety; and your hearts (I hope) be procured to yield such material collusions some part of grateful applauditie.  
On a winter's night, when the Sun had traversed in the climate of the West, and was instantly entering into Aquarius; when brumal frosts and boisterous showers were most predominant, and men use to expel the congealing cold with comfortable fires; About that season of the year, both these Families according to their high degrees, with divers other Gentlemen and gallant dames of Palermo in their companies, attended on likewise by the cunningest musicans, went to one Don Andrea Alizandras' house to revel: Where after their Masks and Mummeries were showed, their measures with commendation traced, and the worthy Revelers were revealed, they fell to banquetings, and heaving Bacchus' bowls. None seeming melancholy, but all merry, the musicans to grace their mirth the more, to the concordance of divers s●ymphonying Instruments, sounded with harmonying voices this Sonnet.  

The Axioms of Art  

Have framed a Summum Bonum,  
To reign abundantly on Earth:  
But wise men (for their part)  
Approve a Summum Malum,  
Oppositely reigning without dearth.  
And why?  
Say I,  
The contrary?  
For where that Virtue holds some store,  
Vile Vice hath always ten times more.   

We joy, we sport, we play,  
We eat, we drink, we merry make:  
We sing all care away,  
In wealth we chiefest pleasure take.  
Yet see the Fee  
Of this folly;  
When that Death  
stops our breath,  
We must leave all behind:  
When we go  
Our riches fro,  
In them small solace we shall find.   

What's then Arts gloze, that makes  
A Summum Bonum so  
To reign on Earth imperfectly?  
But even a Net, that takes  
Foundlings all in gripes of woe;  
For following Error wilfully.  
And then,  
Let men  
With reason ken  
What 'tis to trust to worldly wealth?  
Which is soon lost through Fortune's stealth?  
What's Beauty, but a Flower?  
Whom sickness or decrepit Age  
Do soon bereave of power?  
'Tis but lend cheerful youth in gage.  
And they, like May,  
Both fresh and gay,  
Hold a grace  
In their face.  
Till Nature takes away  
(as 'tis true)  
Her own due;  
Then look they like to clods of clay.  
Vita, bulla.    
The musicans having sung this Moral Sonnet concerning mortality, were commended of the most part, dispraised by none, how soever contrary it seemed to their pleasant disposes: For it served for sauce, among their Cates that pampered their bodies, to sharpen their minds. So that Don Andrea Alizandra cheering his honourable guests, thus began soberly to expostulate.  
Not without good cause now I perceive did the Thracians accustom in their banquetings, to serve forth at the Table dead men's Skulls, to restrain their guests from gluttonous appetites: For sith all worldly commodities are so momentary; all pleasures so changeable, all estates so inconstant, what more excellent mean to attain perfection can mortal men use, than to meditate on their end, and to remember death, as the Vltima linea rerum? No doubt (answered signor Pierro) but that the remembrance of our latest home, is a most heavenly and Angelical contemplation: For the renowned Philip of famous Macedonia, would every morning be admonished by his Page before his uprising, of his mortality. And Plato (surnamed the Divine) would alway sleep holding a Ball of Brass in his hand, directly over a Basin, to the intent that with the fall thereof, he might be recalled from sluggishness and drowsy sloth: used argumental propositions, concerning the chief perficies of Summum Bonum or the chiefest good.  
Some, (as that first of all I may remember our present pastimes) said down many grounds, touching pleasure, feastings, carouses, and such like, and therein to be contained a Summum Bonum: For what greater felicity (according to man's carnal reason) may be enjoyed on earth, than to live merrily void of care, and free from perturbations? We read, that there were divers festivals celebrated and seriously observed, with the common consent of whole Countries, by the Bacchinalls: divers games accustomed, as some ordained by Apollo, after the downfall of the huge Serpent Python, which were titled Pithonia; And far have the games of Olympus been bruited, where all comers spent the time in mirth, jollity, and abundant cheer. All which considered, it moved the Sect of the Epicures to advance worldly pleasure unto the height of Summum Bonum.  
Whilst Pierro thus reasoned, there came a sudden messenger, that informed, how his son young lacomin was taken in a sudden trance, and had lost both his speech & sense, even ready to yield up the ghost.  
No sooner was that message done, but that news was brought to Bartolo, that if he would ever behold his daughter Katherine living, he should hasten horn, for that she was fallen into a sudden consumption, and even worn to skin and bone, as if she had been over-looked by some outrageous monster.  
These sorrowful tidings so amazed these Parents, that (as impatient as old Priam, that saw his children all lie gasping, and the City on fire) they began on both sides to be even through outrage at their wits end: Lifting cries up to the heavens, tearing their hairs, and raging 'gainst the Destinies, that had so cruelly concluded the period of all their future hopes in so short a circuit: cutting off those branches, by whose fruits they expected to live after their old barks were withered. Don Andrea comforted them, the whole assembly entreated them, nought availed; for their hearts burned with fire, and their minds with fear, until their longing eyes visited their distressed offsprings: And so with paces as swift as their distempered feet could support, they hasted both to their several homes.  
Don Andrea Alizandra considering this unexpected change, through so unfortunate a chance, set down his censure as a principle that Omnia humana mutabilia. But what (saith he) should I, that from my infancy have been attendant on the buckelings of courageous Mars, now seem to muster in sentences under the correction of grave Minerva? Victa est fortuna ferendo. I have endured, and so have overcome: They are but Fortune's novices, that cannot with patience oppugn any inconvenience; A death is due to nature, and the sooner that we die, the sooner are our debtts satisfied.  
Men may not be mortal, then would the creature advance him beyond the Creator: As Prometheus would, attempting to steal the fire of eternal life from heaven: for which cause jupiter adjudged him to be tied at cold Caucasus, and there eternally to have his limbs devoured by a vulture. Contentus sua sort, beatior Policrate. ay, I, a contented mind is all in all. Did we not sometime taste the sour, we should not well perceive the sweet: were we not now and then crossed with misfortunes, we could not know what it were to be fortunate.  
Peace is the mother of security, and security the nurse of poverty, and poverty the author of infamy: for, nil habet infoelix, paupertas durius in se, quam quod ridiculos homines facit. And yet must we gratefully welcome all, that the supernal Gods do send to work our trial: and happy, yea thrice happy is that man that so may be purified. Having thus contemplated with himself on the foresaid accidents, to drive off that increasing melancholy passion, he took in hand his Lute, and thereon recorded this Ditty.  


Men 'gainst Gods once did war,  
Which should have pre-eminence:  
But the end of their jar,  
Bred man's fall for his offence.  
Men ought not to fall at odds,  
In any case with th'immortal Gods.   

Aspiring mind, brought Phaethon.  
To all extremes of wretchedness:  
The like endured Bullerophon,  
Through his audacious venterousnes.  
The one would govern Phoebus' cars;  
The other mount up to the stars.   

Rest content in your estates,  
Be they high, or be they low;  
eat you shall then debates,  
That on minds distempered grow.  
Still take heed by others fall,  
A mind content, surpasseth all.  
Contentus esto, & esto foelix.    
By this time were Pierro and Bartolo come home, and made eye-witnesses of their former supposed mishaps: jaconim saw his son shivering as it were, surprised with a quartan fever: Bartolo beheld his daughter shaking and quaking, as though she were set on by the falling sickness: Both of these patients made shows, gave signs and tokens, to the amazement of all that were present in their bedchambers: and so much the more, because they spoke no word, but were always silent. Some said, this miraculous malady of these younglings, was bred by ill sight; some said, they were Plane● strooken: some again said, they were strangely bewitched: Scinditur incertum studia in contraria vulgus, etc. every one uttered diversly what their minds gave them to excogitate. But the woeful parents (having on both sides visited and revisited these miserable Orphans) had the skilfullest Doctors sent for with all speed possible: all preservatives provided, that had virtue curable; leaving nothing unsought, nor means unmade, that might be devised available. Yet nought released them of their extreme trances, nor mitigated their perilous maladies: Which increased the sharper sorrows of the parents, the grief of their noble kindred, the vexation of their friends, and the discomfort of all the people of Palermo; Sic variat Fortuna vices.  
You that have seen a Merchant standing on the hateful shore, beholding the vessel which on the seas remaineth fraught with his whole venture, in hazard of sinking; and lifting his eyes to the heavens, crieth out, O Gods! I am undone, ●tterly undone; In the like passion, or a more vehement, may you suppose all present to remain, for these two distressed and diseased members. For if men take heavily common contrary casualties, as the husbandman receiving an unfruitful harvest; the craftsman deceived of his substance by beguilefull debtor: the shepherd having his flocks pestered, though the infection of some scabiosum pecus; and such like disparaging inconveniences: how may it happen otherwise, but that fathers take ten times more grievously the loss of their only children? unless they had the incomprehensible Faith of the ancient Patriarch; that obeying his maker's command, was content to sacrifice his only son, of whom (he had triple promise from his God) there should proceed so many renowned Tribes, and nations, multiplied in such number, as incomparabilitie should equal the innumerable stars of the resplendent heavens.  
Now generous Readers must my pen show the cunning of a Painter's Pencil; as this, with shadows and colours of variety, so that, with some proper deciphering speeches to portraie a reviving novelty.  
The Destinies had not yet canceled the date of those lovers days, nor Atropos knife was yet prepared, to cut the twist, whereon hung the tenurs of their lives▪ The scars which both of their breasts had received (as impression of wanton Cupid's shafts) stuck so near their tender hearts, as for a while (till the stintie sting and pricking wound thereof was delayed) their whole bodies in every joint continued distemperate, and their hearts panting, and disconsolate. For the evening before that night's regiment, when both their Parents (as is before rehearsed) were feasting with Don Andrea Alizandra, these two pretty peats meeting each other at their Father's door (for the two dwelling places, the beauteous building of that flourishing City, were joined hard the one with the other) attended on both sides with handsome handmaides and proper Paces (for their years had not yet brought them to the state of man and woman, for he was then but a youth, and she but a girl, both of some twice five years of age, as fair a couple, as were the two beauties of the Goddess Sappho and Phao,) where after gentle salutations imparted, according to their kind dispositions (bestowed on them by bountiful Nature at their births) they accorded (taking with them so many of their young followers as they thought convenient) to walk into a grove, which stood on the Western side of the City: accounting such sheltering valleys far more pleasant in the winter's season, than are the plain fields. What parley they had (walking on the way) it were tedious to recite: only thus much would I wish you to note, that every step of theirs, traced now towards that company, whose presence they in manner rejected, because as unbidden guests they came into their company disexpected. As they were walking by the groaves side, listening to the murmurings of a bubbling brook, Katherine espied a Uermin, that with greedy gaping mouth was pursuing his pray: which she showing to jacomin, (for her name was Katherine; also he was called Iacomin after his Father and he perceiving it to has●en the bo●●t the swifter to lake his footing (as the common manner is) cried, So, ho, ho: which was answered by the calling Echo, (as if in presence and despite of Katherine, she minded to court young jacomin, as she had heretofore that scornful yon●er Narcissus with an other So, ho ho▪ which Katherine hearing, moved with sudden mirth, broke out into a loud ha, ha, ha and the Echo as if were with the same semblance of laughture, replied again with Ha, ha, ha: jacomin hearing Katherine's voice so merrily doubled, ravish with pleasant conceit to hear such a prat●●ng, ●ad come hither: come hither said the Echo. Which sp●●ch infusing into Katherine's mind an amorous motion, called with high voice, Away, away: which was in like manner so shrilly resounded by the Echo. Having soon wearied their winde-pipes with hard hallowings, they passed forward to enter the groan, where presently Aboron and his fair Aurelia, hath their troops of Fa●●ies and Sylvan satires, (having taken Cupid captive, for that he counterfeited a Fa●erie, to win the beauteous P●●ches) were dancing in ringed rounds, and some with low voices warbled this Roundelay.  

Venus' eyed  
Adonis flower,  
And espied  
Cupid's Bower:  
●ower sweet,  
●ower fair,  
Venus' feet  
Then tracst there.  
And there saw Psyche's walking,  
Then with her fell a talking,  
Nymph (said she)  
Of sweet hue,  
Tell you me,  
Tell me true:  
Why in wyldie  
Woods, that grow▪  
Dost accompany  
Buck● and D●e?  
If thou be of Diana's train,  
Why alone here dost remain?  
Psi●●es sad,  
'Gan to say,  
How she had  
A Lover gay,  
Cupid fine,  
Cupid fair,  
That as mine  
Did repairs  
But (which most did me spite)  
I beheld him near with sight.  
Kiss I did  
Pretty lip●,  
That were hid  
In eclipse  
Feel I might  
Dainty face,  
Which my sight  
Near would grace.  
But when I would him see,  
In the night, fled from me.  
Tellest me so?  
Venus' said  
And frowned tho)  
thouart the maid,  
On whose shrine  
Arcadia  
(Scouting) 〈◊〉  
And 〈◊〉  
Have oblations offered▪  
And us wrongs have proffered.  
And yet (dame)  
Not content  
To win fame,  
Through event,  
But ●●st wed  
Venus' son,  
To thy bed?  
As thoust done:  
Yet not pleased (void of grace)  
Must presume to see his face▪  
Venus wrath  
Psyche's moved,  
(Fearing s●ath  
Which she proved)  
Venus frets,  
And with brea●●  
Thundered threat●  
Of hard Death:  
Psyche's kneels, pardon asks,  
Venus binds her to do tasks.  
First she brings  
Many gra●nes,  
And the 〈◊〉  
On ●he plain●●:  
Bids her then  
Well to wind●  
Every grain  
With his kind.  
Cupid tendering Psyche's 〈◊〉,  
Sent two Doves to help her tho.  
Venus sends  
To Lethe Lake,  
And intends  
The fiery Drake  
Should her slay,  
Should her spill:  
As that day  
Was Venus will.  
But the Dragon sleeping soft,  
Psyche's scopte, and water brought.  
Mother's rage  
'Gainst his Love,  
To asswadge  
Doth Cupid prove:  
But Cytherea  
Psyche's sends  
To Proserpina,  
'mongst the Fiends:  
Thence to bring a Box of Beauty,  
This must needs be done in duty:  
Psyche's wept,  
Cupid moved,  
To her stepped,  
(Whom he loved)  
Lass (quoth he)  
Never doubt,  
Thou with glee  
Shalt bring't about,  
Hold that Coin, pay the Ferry,  
That Sop for the Porter carry.  
Psyche's past  
Charo●s Boat,  
(Not aghast)  
To Hell gone:  
There the Cur  
Had a sop,  
And from her  
Well did cloppe  
Of Hell's Queen & Bo●e she had,  
And returned passing glad.  
Cupid smiled▪  
Venus wrath▪  
Waxing mild  
Did not loath  
Psyche's state,  
State divine:  
Thus did hate  
Love combine.  
But loves joy breeds our hate,  
Cupid lives in captives state.  Virtutem sequitur comes invidia.  
In midst of these Fairy's sport, Iacomin and Katherine came among tha●, not perceiving them, and hearing melody as it were made by the Antipodes under ground, were surprised even with an ecstasy of admiration: supposing that some of Diana's darlings frequented about these places, where none ever to their knowledge or hearing did abide. So were they Enchanted with these invisible musicans cantazons, their watchful senses wart sleéep●●,) and being o'ercome with drowsiness (as was that many eyed Herdsman of the Goddess juno, by the melody of bewitching Mercury) lay them down all one by one, on a green bank of fragrant grass: which yielded so sweet a savour to their smells, as the unmanured plots of the all-fruitful garden of the Hesperides. How wanton the waggish Fairies we●e to behold these sluggards, especially the two Palermonian Scitilians, Iacomin & Katherine, who embraced one another with enclosed arms, (as did the beauteous Venus, hugging the gallant Adonis) I leave to your singular censures. Yet by the way, I would have you consider, that Cupid amazed with this novelty, thinking Katherine had been his beloved Psyche's, (for whose sake the amorous wag had endured so many and sundry mishaps) stretching his settred legs forward with all his power, even unawares let fly a golden headed arrow at jacomins breast, wherewith he being wounded, gave midst his slumbers grievous groans: whereby Cupid moved with pity and compassion of his so rash a deed (procured through sonde suspicion) sent an other at Katherine's stomach: mighty work the same effect in the one, as the former should in the other. And for amends of his folly, to mix their corasi●es with some pretty caveat: commanding his attendant Sylu●●●s to tune their Pipes, he recorded this pithy Madrigale.  

Cupid's Madrigale.  

After the deluge,  
In virtuous Dencalions' venturous days,  
Apollo fortunate in his assays,  
Slew the Serpent huge,  
With bow and shaf●:  
And therefore had▪  
To make him glad,  
Great praises as he ought.   

Then the Laurel bay  
On brows of Conquerors was never ●●t.  
For no such Tree ere growing was as yet:  
(So learned Poets say)  
But the ivy bow,  
Or Oaken branch  
(That harm can staunch)  
Did serve (I trow)   

Guarded with a quiver  
Of sharp shafts that Love bred passionate,  
Phoebus met me, mustering by the City gate:  
(And as a scorne●  
Deriding much my deity)  
With words reviling  
Then called me fondling,  
And thus I made reply.   

Though 'gainst Pythou (Phoebus)  
Thou hast gotten pre-eminence,  
Yet mayst de●●ly chance t'abide this offence:  
M●rke what I do discuss,  
And there with from bow  
I did let fly  
A shaft fiercely,  
That bred Apollo's woe.   

In the woods wandering  
Paeneas lovely daughter he espied,  
And entreating her (to be his bride)  
Daphne ran forth flying,  
He followed with swift course,  
'Gainst wind and rain:  
(Unto his pain)  
She showed no remorse.   

As the fearful Hare  
From the speedy scenting hunting Hound,  
So fled Daphne Apoll● in that stound:  
Mark this my compare.  
Th'one for fear fled fast,  
Th'other hasted  
And no time wasted  
To follow not aghast.   

Daphne panting sore.  
Running eagerly through tearing brakes  
Even subdued: Phoebus' breath her hai●e through-takes;  
Fainting more and more.  
Then she mainly prayed,  
O Paenean streams,  
Fence me from his claims,  
Send a Virgin aid.   

Phoebus' had o'erta'en her,  
(Hoping to enjoy what he desired)  
But the sacred Deity conspired,  
Safely to preserve her:  
For her hair became  
Branches of fair Bay,  
(That did flourish aye)  
And her corpse were even the ●aine.   

So when he supposed,  
T'have imbract' his lovely Daphne's body,  
With a bark (that Laurel bows bare gently)  
It was all enclosed,  
And offering it to kiss,  
His branched love  
Did from him move,  
In whom he placest his bliss.   

Well (quoth Phoebus) since  
I may not now enjoy thee, as my dear;  
Yet in triumphs will I thy bows wear:  
Thus love did him convince,  
And he numbed at the heart:  
Then sickly said  
He was dismayed  
By my deep wounding dart.  
Tantum male-sanus Amor obest.    
Cupid having thus recorded his powerful Deity, and imprinted (as it were with pressing stamps) his mightiness in the stomachs of these Novices, with she wings stole from the frolic Fairies: who●e unexpected flight, moved A boron and his Aurelia, to an infinite admiration. For Cupid inspecting the falsehood of his bowerfull Love (intending to see if all with her were well) in rural sort counterfeited the shape of Coridon, and in plain Country speech nea●e his own bower thus bluntly courted her. Uaire Nymph (quoth he) zawst any lambs grazing on these plains? I have missed a Yew (iwis) and her young one; and it may be that some giddy Priapus (prying about my vieldes) hath droave my ulocke from the vaire plains, that (wandering by the by-ways of the woods and Fountains here about) live unshéerde, ungrazde, uncoated, without littering straw, and voode to chaw, both within and without? Good friend (answered Psyche's) no such Cattle have mine eyes beheld wandering on these plains, and yet they might hap to pass for me as unseen: But hast thou chanced to see any Fairies upon yonder Mountains, leading a fair and beautiful youth (a God indeed) like a captived prisoner? Whom in spite they have made a bond slave 'mongst them, moved through disdainful and merciless envy. For whose sake I spend the night in woe, and the day in lamentations. Cupid hearing his Love enquiring after himself (as did Mercury understand himself, bewrayed unto himself by a covetous Swain) took compassion on her passions, and showed him unto her eyes apparently: saying, Divine and approved Goddess, (whom with glory, omnipotent jupiter with all the powers celestial have deified, and the rustic Semie-gods and satires, for virtue and worthiness, with Hymns and commendable Roundelays have glorified, as well for this sacred beauty, as for thy admired fortunes) Behold, thou hast sound him, whom thy waymenting words have sought: behold, thine eyes see him for whom thyself hast made inquiry, therefore be cheerful, enter my solemn bower: there are others grieved with our disease. And after such speeches uttered, he entered the Cabinet, comforted her, and kissed her: and unfolded his exploit performed towards the two tender Scicilians. In the mean time, the Fairies missing Cupid, (whose speedy flight had bid them adieu) being enraged, that he was so secretly escaped their fingers without any entreaty: with pace as swift as runs the lightfooted Roe, forsook that place, and traversed too and fro, endeavouring to inquire him out. Thus they resting uncomfortable, le●t the drowsy Scicilians comfortless: who not long after awaked of their slumbers, were as faint, as the faintest: as sick, as the sickest: and for the time, as ill apaid, as he that (sanus credict) played for fear of arresting, lest in sight: That scarce able to find footing, or like young children to tap and go, were by their attendants (with much ado) conducted and carried home to Palermo: where their Parents, kindred and friends (not knowing what chance had happened them) bewailed their sudden sickness with multiplicity of sorrowful tears: endeavouring (as is before rehearsed) by all means invented, to have their maladies cured.  
But when all medicines performed for remedies, served in small sort or in no value and efficacy at all to work their ease, their worthy Parents were counseled by the Sicilian soothsayers, to send some, to ask the Oracles of Apollo at Delphos: both concerning their unsearchable disease, as also, how long the Destinies had decreed they should breathe on earth: For these Oracles did not only unfold things present, and things past, but also could express things to come, though evermore mystically. And this was their censure to the demand of the Inquirers.  

The verdict of the Oracles.  
These grieved ones, whose bodies you suppose subjecteth to disease,  
As are the corpse of common men (through many thousand ways)  
Shall be again to health restored: and eke behold with eyes  
Their Parents houses changed from love to hate, in wondrous wise.  
Whose hard dissensions shall their minds so mightily annoy,  
That whilst it lasteth, their poor hearts shall scarce have earthly joy.  
Great perils are they to sustain, even at the dint of death,  
And yet at length recure their joys before they lose their breath.  
Nay more, their only love shall cause their Parents (being old)  
Again to join new leagues of friendly love: So rest resolved.   
Which verdict pronounced by the Oracle, gave them hope of their recoveries (the rest being not understood, concerning what changes of their friendship in future time should fall through unexpected chances) and the woeful Parents thereby received comforts; which soon after, even in the April of their consolations, were scorched with blasts of boisterous confusions. All which (that my pen may sufficiently portraie) for the augmentation of your more wished pleasures, I will unfold first their general agreements, and would especially have you consider that, that their civil mutinies grown on sudden, may (with the frowns of froward Fortune 'gainst those approved Lovers) show them more apparent. For our Lodestar must continue a course for Decorams' sake, in this proportioned Zodiac: It hath now pest Aries and Taurus, (signs fit for those, whose foreheads are forked) as (it may be) was petty Aborons 'mongst his Fairries: Or (as 'tis manifest) Vulcan's brows have been (by the wantonness of his Venus) and now is it entering lovely Gemini, and descending towards crabbed Cancer, is even enforced to turn his progress an other way; showing us long days of sorrow to vex Lovers proceedings; but short nights of quiet, to drive off melancholies. So that when it shall return home to the original Horizon, his course will seem to procure causes of no small admiration.  
What frolic feastings on furnished Tables do swarm in Palermo, when the well willing Commons knew of the recovered healths of these Nob●e branches before diseased, are to be extolled and equallizde with those costly Cates and curious carouses, that Mark Anthony received of lovesick Cleopatra for a welcome: What revel were made, may seem comparable to the games and gamboldes exploited by Meleager and his gallant companions, after the downfall of the feared and dangerous Boar of Calydon. And the better to maintain their sport, great sums of moneys were most freely bestowed, by both these commanding Potentates: who thought themselves wholly indebted to the assisting gods, for their children's welfares. So that both Families feasted together in one place, and kept holiday: as do Commanders with their Captains and martial Officers, in time of plighted peace together in pitched Pavilions. Yet was not all the world made pleasant with these their pleasures, nor pleased with their pastimes: For the earth is empress Fortune, (whose wavering hands is alway turning the wheel of restless chance) pretended to play such a prank, to sour their swéets, as should set all Scicilia even on fire, and put Palermo to the overthrow by the flames.  
Yet ere you hear how she wrought this warfare, I would will you to ponderate in mind, the lovely sparks of inspired affections, that fed on the fuel of young jacomins and Katherine's hearts: whose stomachs in all these banqueting times, were not fed so much with the divers dishes, as were their eyes delighted with mutual glances.  
Many a time, would they walk in Orchard Allies, hand in hand: many a time tread garden knots, following one an other 'mongst banks of savoury herbs and flowers: many a time, to their noble Parents contentations, would they tread pacing measures, and dance nimble Galliers, directing their ●ootings with the set time of the musicans: to the beholders eyes (that were somewhat dazzled with their beauties & braveries) like two resplendent stars: That had juno seen Katherine, she would even have been beside herself, through jealousy of her suspected jupiter, as she was 'gainst Inactius daughter Io. And wanton Mars would be far dismayed, as fearing lest his Venus would fancy Iacomin, for an other Adonis. What should I seem tedious? they were lovely, and loved lively: and as their youthful days were by times prescription multiplied, so were their beauties together with their affections, made most perfect: and their hearts (both united and settled in one sympathy) expected but Hymen's rights to be performed, with the enjoying of their generous Parents halfe-accomplisht and willing consents.  
But Lady Fortune, that squinteyed Goddess, that on the Stage of this world loves Comic merriments should be mixed with Tragic matter, bred dissensions twixt these two honourable and renowned Families, (first procured by some controversies twixt their servants) which by little and little grew so hot, that envies sparks holding a furnace in their breasts, burst forth in fiery flames with such fury, as all the outcries of the Citizens for Clubs, Clubs, could not diminish: nor the moistening waters of the Commons entreaties pacify the outrageous wraths of those angry enkindled parties. They that before friendly feasted together, now are daring to field one an other: They that before with invented merriments sought to cheer themselves, now fretting with chase melancholy, do discontentedly disease themselves: both parties, in steed of banquet, follow bucklings: and reviling all conversing peacemakers, pronounce their angry commotions with Si non nobiscum, sis contra nos: neither respecting the good of the Common weal, to their government committed: nor the welfare, either of themselves, their friends, or kinsfolk. Now all degenerous Cavelairos and swashbucklers (that in time of concord durst not show their seditious countenances, nor open their mutinous mouths that commonly bred despiteful jars) flocked in troops to be partakers of these alarms. The Commonalty was divided, adjoining to what party best their mind regarded: and Palermo was made even a Pharsalian Tent: for martial Mavors with bowls of blood, and banquets of dismal massacres to be made frolic. Such braving, such bandying, such buckeling was every day on both sides with brawls and broils bestowed, that I may well say with the illustrious Poet, Fit via vi, etc.  
How should I compare Palermo, (whose streets are now guarded with crackling armours) but to the Roman Synod, at such time as Catiline's rebellious troops harnessed throughout with coats of male, uncald and unwelcome, came to destroy the Senate's Council? Or unto that murmuring assembly that were present, when Brutus and Cassius treacherously stabbed conquering Caesar, clad in his Parliament Robes, with murdering Bodkins?  
He that above all others was no meddler in these hurly-burlies, was that valiant & ever virtuous minded man, Don Andrea Alizandra: who one day beholding signor jacomin Pierro, and Don Alexander Bartolo, bearding and bandying other, laughed (with the Philosopher) at their outrage: and said within himself, that needs must the inferior members (meaning the vulgar sort) fall at jars, sith the heads (minding them) cannot govern them, but are become giddy. And thereupon providing all convenient necessaries, left dissentious Palermo, and went to dwell in a goodly Farm of his own in the country: and before he departed, gave Palermo the like adieu, as did the wise Bias Boristhenes, towards sacked Priennium, viz. Now stand or fall, burn or quench, I care not: for Omnia mea mecum porto.  
But what grief were these deadly controversies, to the concordant minds of our hearty Lovers? what annoyance was it for them to behold their Parents brows eclipsed and clouded with gloomy menaces of revenge? and themselves with fear so servilely subjecteth, as they durst not look one another in the face? and yet could not this separation of body (though they were overlooked with Argus eyes, by their hate-stomaking Sires) separate the zealous conjunction of their loving minds. First when these broils began, would they converse and parley (such Lynxes eyes hath Love) through a crevice twixt two walls; and so by talk evacuate the corrosives that oppressed their tender stomachs, by uttering forth their mutual sorrows. Which being at length understood by Bartolo, who on a time unespied, listened a while to their conference, and not enduring it, taking Katherine by the gowne-sléeve from her stand (where she beholding her Father, shivered as if in an agony) he leading her in, thus 'gan to rebuke her sharply.  
And art thou (Girl) so led with fond affection, as to use conference with thy Father's enemy? who not only by raising civil jars, and dreadful slaughters of our well-willers and friends, seek our overthrow? but also by all envious means, seek in policy to procure our disgrace? D●o not thy eyes behold (fondling as thou art) how Palermo murmureth on our behalf, to behold these mischievous hurly-burlies? Doth not all Scicilia admire at their haughty hatred taken against us, raised by maintaining a sottish crew of proud peacocks? Hath folly dazzled thine eyes, that void of confiderate regard, thou seemest so Béetle-blinde? housewife, I charge thee, not only refrain the company, but take heed (on my heavy displeasure) use no conference with that impious brat, whose flattery tends to no other end, but to work thine infamy: Let not fair words (you weak fool) make you fain to follow his fancy, lest it breed cause of repentance. Thy fresh wit cannot pry into men's wily policies, and therefore take direction of thy Parents: For if thou hast not the whirrie to perceive thine own good, and discern thy loss and disparagement, and yet will seem so heady, as a friend, to make choice of thy Father's foe: Receive counsel (thou wert best) and be advised better hereafter: else in running the race of a stubborn fondling, (without regard, not ruled by reason, nor taught by experience) thou mayst chance tread on thorns, and being deeply pricked, cry woe: when none shall pity thy distress. Thou knowest my mind, amend this amiss, or run headlong to mischief, and have no help. Go to thy mother, go; vile Girl. And so he left her.  
This sharp cherke surprised poor Katherine's passionate soul, with such vehement supposes, that half distracted of her senses, scarce able with her trembling feet to ascend the stairs craved her Closet, where when she entered, fetched deep and heartie-shivering sighs, faintly drawing breath; fell into a sudden sown; and having again recured her memory, she uttered to herself this sorrowful complaint.  
Ah Love, (quoth she) the only Lamp and Lodestar of life; how perversely art thou burdened with Atlas load? Ah life, the greatest light of the world; how art thou clouded with the counterfeit of death? Ah death, the only physician to cure a grieved heart: Why withdrawest thou (merciless as thou remainest) thy piercing dart to cut off my woeful days, lengthened too long by the spiteful Destinies? Ah Destinies, the continual consumers of mortal life; cut, ah cut off the twist of my days: for I abhor all my living days prolonged by the lingering slackness of doting Time. Ah Time, the devourer of all earthly things; suffer this hateful breath of mine to forsake my wretched breasts habitation, that my poor soul with the wings of a Dove may mount unto the glorious heavens. Ah heavens, the predominant governors of mortal bodies, and blessed receptacles of deified souls; deliver a wretched soul from a distressed bodies poison, to have some comfortable content with your sacred selves, amongst the glorious Seraphins. Heavens, Destinies, Time and Death, accord in one, to the end my miserable life, and with my life, my inspired, and yet uncomfortable love.  
Then she staid: from her woeful heart shooting forth volleys of sad sighs, and pouring from the conduits of her Crystal eyes, streams of tears, that trilled down her Lily died cheeks: and having by these means a little lightened her burdened stomach, she thus again began to ruminate.  
And shall my Father's brows furrowed with frowns, or his words, as sharp as the blasts sent forth by Boreas, turn or drive away my Love, that aught to me his dearest life? No (by the Gods) no: whilst I live, if his heart remain loyal (as though his heart too, would remain otherwise, that thus thou pleadest with If●) oh! whilst I live (I say) will I love my jacomin. But (and then she shoot forth ●alt tears) our Fathers, our froward and furious Fathers (ah! that Parents should seem crosses to the godly proceedings of their children) our Fathers, that should be our best helps, are our most hinderers▪ our Fathers who (in furthering our choice) should chiefly pleasure us, do chiefly displeasure us: their enmity, confuseth our amity: their contentions, infringe our contenta●i●ns: their armours, our amours: their aggrevates, our agreements: their frowns, our affections: their hardy speeches, our hearty sport.  
Ah hard, hard, hard hap: Go to thy mother, vile Girl (quoth he) and so ●lung from his only child in anger. Should I tell my mother, what would she reply? I know what; I must not love his offspring, that Serpentlike intends my Parent's downfall. As though the fault of the Father, were rightly to be reputed to the son, who wisheth peace if it were possible: requireth quiet, if it might be granted requisite: commendeth concord, thereby to have all reconciled: And yet is he (ah! he, my joy and comfort, my jacomin) he is had as an Agent in these hurly-burlies. Therefore Katherine, wretched and miserable Katherine, sith thine eyes are debarred from beholding the light of thy universal consolation, let thy Closette become a solitary Cell: which mantled all about with black sorrow, may seem (to thy best content) even the shades of Cymmeria: for what more may excruciate a macerated soul (whose eyes abhor the light) than to behold the lightsome day?  
Having thus said, abounding passions stopped the organa of her voice, and feeling herself faint, laid her feeble limbs on her woe-acceptable bed: there neither permitting her outward eyes, nor yet her inward mind to enjoy any rest.  
Now turn we on the other side to young jacomin, whose ears having heard in some part how she was rattled and rated at by Bartolo, stealing sadly to his Chamber, with eyes fu●l of tears, breast swollen with sobs, and heart burdened with passion, he burst forth into these disconsolate clamours.  
O hapless, helpless, and hopeless caitiff: Hapless, because void of all good hap, and therefore unfortunate: Helpless, for that thou (wretched thou) want'st all comfortable help, and therefore accursed: And hopeless, in that all hope of comfort hath fled thy company, and therefore desperate. And sith thou art so unfortunate, so accursed and desperate, ban Fortune, curse the Fates, and so despair and die: for only death may bring thee some hap to win help, or some help to enjoy hope of future comfort, where now thou remainest wholly comfortless. Then he paused a space, and with milder mood thus went forward. And yet (jacomin) remember thyself, be not driven to despair through distrust: As thou hast lost thy joys, so may thy joys again chance to be found. Polycrates had a precious jewel in the belly of a fish served at his board, which he let fall into the sea. This only chance, hath made this change.  
Thou hadst (not long since) liberty and leave, not only to behold, but also to embrace thy Love in thy Parent's presence. But that liberty is lost, that leave is out of date, that freedom is past, and thou art made the bondslave of all misery. And yet the course of time may restore them all: but when? And with that he stood as though he had beheld Medusa's head, ●ill after a while coming to himself, he proceeded with these exclaims. O unhappy estate of Princes: whose dignities placed on the whirling wheel of unconstant Fortune, stand in such uncertainty, as when they mount to the highest degree and loftiest altitude of honour & prosperity, even at an instant, they ar● topsy-turvy overturnd & tumbled down to the low touch of the ground, with disgrace & beggary. Percutiunt fulmi●a montes, non valles i●fimos. Would I had been of base Parentage, so might I have obtained more patience, to endure misfortunes: I, patience, perfect patience is a salve, to heal all the smartful scourages of Fortune. But yet it is a virtue for cowards and cravens, not for valiant & venturous youth, whose minds (courageous minds) dare with the Giants again in the Phlaegraean fields, Bellare cum dijs. to threaten and pronounce wars against great love, and all the other Gods: climbing up the heavens, as did brave Belleropho● on winged Pegasus: and breaking the infernal gates of hell, bind trypl●-headed Cerberus in chains, as did Hercules in his labours of wonders, to appease the wrath of angry juno.  
But why (jacomin) overcome with rage, like to blind bayards dost thou obraid the glorious Sun? or with the witless Wolves seem to bark against the Moon? hope well, & have well: entreat the gods (Quid enim nisi vota super sunt?) with prayers, to pacify those Parents, whose bloody broils breed your disaster disparagements: that in joys (for Olim meminisse muabit) abounding, your former penances in future memory may support your pleasures with greater delights. But thine eyes, thy longing eyes may not view her beauteous eyes; nay, thine ears, thy wretched ears, now henceforth never shall again receive the melodious sound of her sweet voice: Ah wretch▪ ah wretch, of all others most miserable, confused, and accursed.  
Having so said, as he would have given more scope to his complaint, he was by a servant called to converse with his Father: which made him suspect some further mishap: either fearing the check, or at least the reproof for awaiting counterbuffs for his lovesick sweats.  
But it was otherwise, for his Father Pierro (having not seen him many hours before) welcoming certain friends of his, newly come to Palermo: caused young jacomin to come in presence (who then for the absence of one, hated the presence of all) to keep them conference, and bear them company.  
Who (after imparted salutations) as from a mind oue●-cloide with cares, uttered laconical answers to all their vain questioning Items, with no, and I; without any other circumstances. So that these newcome strangers could find by supposes, that this fair younglings tender mind was benumbed by some agonizing malady.  
Thus did these civil jars, not only ruinate the Sicilian state, and authority of the Peers (all which were left now to roave at random like a masterless ship without a Marryner, 'mongst the swallowing surges, either to sink or swim) but also shake the healths and well-fares, both of these illusterous Families and their children.  
Whereby may seem as apparent as in a Christ all glass, what dangerous discommodities accompany civil wars, like daily servitors. For these broils in these Countries, made such a strange metamorphosis, as that where Scicilia before was had in chief regard of her neighbour Countries, for politic and peaceful government, now ruled by common Democracie, it was had in as great disgrace, and contemptible and dishonourable.  
The crabbed claws of Cancer, hath long detainde the course of our Lodestar, which now by the prescript rule of time, is entering Leo: which courageous sign, brings our Lovers some encouragement, to encounter Fortune face to face: and in despite of her power to work their joys, by fearing no colours of disaster mishaps.  
They on both wings expected their safeguardes, to proceed through sounding a retreat to their Parents controversies: but their envious hatred was grown so rank, that their malign minds would entertain no persuasions to peace, but wholly employed their humours how best to work revenge. Which young Iacomin pondering and considering with himself, thus began to expostulate.  
And will it be no otherwise (quoth he) can Eagles thirst be pacified by nothing else but blood? Can men always like Lions, skirmish, possess with the heat and warmth of raging and furious wrath? I see that old ages angers, represent Torches flames; which the longer they burn, the fiercer waxeth their fire. Is it meet for youth to be shut up in a continual Labyrinth of displeasant crosses, daily endangered by the monitaure despair?  
If Palermo (that was once accounted the glorius Sicilian Metropolis, shining in his ornaments like an illusterous Mycrocosmus) now being metamorphosed from the Palace of peace, to the Lent of tumultuous war; can yield no quiet, yet, yet what? (And there having paused, replied) yet may thy abiding in other Countries, afford such a sweet habitation, as never is likely to be enjoyed in thy native home. Skilful Dedalus remaining in bondage under domynering Minus, by Art framed wings to fly from servitude; and so got freedom. And shall not Love lend me Eagles wings to clasp (as did Ioues Armour-bearer, the beauteous Nymph Ganymede) my dear Katherine; and bear her a matchless pitch, free from the frowns of her froward Sire and mine? Calum non animum mutant quitrans mare currunt: If she will consent, we'll trudge, and see Don Lorenzo, and the rest of our good friends in Spain. And in this hasty resolve, with ynkie Pen on paper wrote as followeth to his lovely Katherine.  
jacomins persuasive Letter unto his enthralled love.  
ALthough our eyes through disjunction of place, may not behold one another's countenance; yet doth the conjunction of my unmovable mind, cause me to contemplate on our general welfare. And though we dare not on pain of parents' frowns, displeasures & rebukes (already even incurred) be once seen talkative, but alway tongue-tied, yet hath Love taught me a slight, with you to have in secrecy some desired conference. Know then (my dearest Katherine) that my heart burdened with heaviness, my mind o'erborne with melancholy, and my breast subved with passion, for our disquiets and life-sticking subjections: to avoid such slavish servility, have all within me accorded to escape imprisonment: although they fly into strange Countries, so that by the way they may enjoy your company. Iacomin will to Spain (Katherine) if your sweet self would be copartner in his travails: and there, with his friends and yours, remain, until he understand that reconciled peace hath made a period to these common controversies. I know (dear Love) what sorrows you sustain for my sake, what heavy cares for my cause, to cure the which, you must practise with me to depart from Palermo: for sweeter are the hony-sopps of content, than all the courtly iunckets and dainty ca●es, sauced with doubtful & double cares. This if your loyal heart can fancy, no doubt but our happiness in the end will be multiplied, and all our former mishaps abolished. Herein then delay not, for nothing may so much breed our danger: Else if you like not this motion for fear of afterclaps, I will not seem to constrain your cowardice to the combat. No farewell Katherine, till death destroy my life, so I expect a speedy answer.  
Yours, or not his own: young jacomin.  
Having written these few lines: he stood studying how to have them delivered. He would not adventure to trust any of his Father's family, for fear to have his secrets revealed: what should he do? It were but madness for him to cast it over the wall; for her Father sooner than his Katherine, might hap to take it up.  
Standing a while in a maze, having twice or thrice walked too and fro in his Chamber, heard at the stair foot a poor woman begging an alms: to whom he went, and questioning with her of her parentage, understood that Fortune had played an adverse part, and bereft her, not only of her friends, but bereaved her of all her earthly substance. The circumstance of whose case, were too troublesome to be rehearsed, and too tedious to be heard.  
But her he thought the fittest bearer of his counsels that the earth could yield: Wherefore giving her Gold to make her gladsome; Woman (quoth he) thy distress hath bred my good will thus much towards thee, in that thy griefs have made me compassionate; hie thee now to the next Gate, and there crave their benevolence, and watch a time when conveniently thou canst present this Paper closely to a young Gentlewoman there, whose votion towards the poor is never wanting: Tell her, I commend me heartily unto her, and do entreat her to receive on my behalf this plain Passport, and thereto to return a speedy answer, by thee my unsuspected messenger. Be advised in this enterprise, and thou shalt not depart unrewarded.  
The aged woman (whose silver hairs were tokens of experience taught by time, perceiving a little which way the wind blew, hoping it would turn to her advantage) with a low curchie received the writ, (he telling her, how the message she went in, was to fair Katherine) promising she would be circumspect in every respect to accomplish his desires. Do so good woman (quoth he) and if her answer breed me any pleasure, thou shalt not remain without profit. And so she passed toward Bartolos door: where she had not long used her accustomed ceremonies, but that Katherina's presence presented itself before the woman's eyes: of whom, she begged an alms, being by her demanded whence she came, and what benefits her earnest prayers had procured her: she mildly in humble manner answered. Virtuous and fair mistress (quoth she) amongst the commons my pains have been recompensed with slender profit: but the liberal hand of the gallant young Gentleman (your next neighbour) hath far beyond any deserts of mine, made me prosperous wi●h his bounty. Hath he so? (quoth Katherine) and for neighbourhoods amity, thou shalt not be sent hence comfortless. And then being about to open her purse, the woman reached her jacomins Letter, with these words.  
Good mistress, my silly self hath by him been made so happy, as to be trusted with delivering this message, before many of my betters; and I hope your gentle nature will with patience conceal my rude nurture. I promised, and in that I promised, I will perform my duty what so ere befide. For I trust (and in that trust am thoroughly persuaded) that his noble heart herein towards you imparteth no harm. But how (replied the Princess) couldst thou tell whether myself were the party to whom he minded this message? I hope (mistress) it is yourself (said she) for my aged eyes observe in you the phistognominate tokens that the Gentleman willed me to consider. And thou hast hit the mark (good woman answered the Princess. And yet not got the game (good mistress) quoth the woman again, until you vouchsafe to return an answer. That shall not be wanting (said Katherine) because (I know) it will be best welcome. Stay a while and I will in some sort perform the Gentleman's pleasure. With that she entered her closet: where having overread the Letter; after a short study, she returned in writing, this answering Appeal.  
Katherine appealing to her love.  
THe wandering Knight forsaking the Carthaginian coast, was cause of Carthages fair Queens decay. Her● threw herself headlong into Hellespont for Leander's love, whom she beheld dead, lying by the rivers side. Iphis hanged herself, Procris slew herself, because they were forsaken of their dearest and best beloved friends. Then wend not away (my dear jacomin) and leave me in the jaws of despair; lest that on myself I work the like massacre with mere disparagement. Medea having by powerful spells, gotten jason free liberty to gain the Colchian golden fleece, being by him contemned, sought revenge by his children and fathers murdering. And Scylla (renowned Nisus daughter) presenting to Minos her father's purple hair, (which she had cut off as her father slumbered) on possession whereof, did fatally consist the safeguard of his Crown and Kingdom; being by Minos for love, repaid with hate, grew frantic and desperate. Then if you love me, do not leave me●●ah, do not leave me: for I will rather than be left behind thee, take warfare with thee. And because we will freely pass watch and all unespied: I will provide me such apparel as did Minerva, when like an aged woman, she would persuade Arachne from presumption. I am thine (sweet heart) or not mine own: whose only life is maintained by thy love: whose health is strengthened by thy happiness: and estate consisting on all thy fortune. If the lan● have thy sweet self in hold, it also shall have me: if the seas be thy habitation, the seas likewise shall serve for my home: if you live, I enjoy life: and if you die, my heart dieth also. Therefore I will not say farewell (though from the fair well of thy welfare, doth flow all poor Katherine's happiness) till death end my life-dayes, and leaving to live, must leave mortally to love.  
If not yours, no bodies. Katherine.  
Having framed this Appeal to her Love, she folded it closely up: and coming to the old woman (who was busied in saying her creed) told her she had framed an answer to the Gentleman; and (said she) for thy trustiness, there (anointing her hand with the precious oil of Angels) is somewhat for to help thy want: and take good heed safely to redeliver back this Letter. The poor woman humbly thanked her for her bounty, and stirring her aged stumps back again toward Signior jacomins Pierro's door, met gentle jacomin: who awaighted her return. To whom she imparted Katherine's courtesy extended towards her, delivering him her answerable Letter: whose superscription when he had beheld: ravished with admirable conceit, he slung the poor woman some more crowns, and so she merrily departed: blessing the hour, time, and place of her so lucky arrival thither, happy for her own behoof, advanced by the liberal gifts of these younglings.  
jacomin reading Katherine's exampled propositions, admiring at her fervent love, and famous learning: (for she was as much addicted to the one, as adjoined in mind to the other) after some silent meditation, breathed forth these speeches.  
Fire trieth gold, and I see that adversity can make best trial of friends. I am thine (saith she) and not mine own; (Oh words of a loving heart!) and therefore if you love me do not leave me. No (Katherine) thy jacomin list not leave thee, till life leave him: for if he would, he need not to incur (only for thy sweet sake) all other his friends displeasures: which likewise thy lovely self for his sake hast sustained. Ah sacred Deities, the maintainers of loves destiny: whose essence is immortal, and accidence fatal; be now propitious to our proceedings, aid our enterprise, and support us against perils: then shall your Altars be covered all over with our grateful offerings: and the sweetest perfumes of Myrrh and Frankincense shall purify your temples. Ah sacred juno, with thy power protect our pretences: and Hymen, lighten those lamps of thine, to consecrate our lives to loves obeisance. Is not Love the hand maid of the immortal soul? the purified superficies of celestial motion, secretly inspired into the Cordials, the eyes prospectative contemplation of beauty's Idea? whereby the Creator is made to admire at the obiective creature? Is it not a virtue metaphysical, containing the perfect substance, both of Art and nature? O divine love! and therefore divine, because sent from above. O immortal beauty! and therefore immortal, because therein is insetled the summary glory of the heavens. Damned then be their railings, and condemned their forgeries, that bark at Love, calling it lustful and intemperate: and title it vain, wavering, and windy.  
Can a celestial virtue have incontinency? then what incontinency is contained in Love, whose virtue is celestial? Can that effect prove inconstant that is decreed by the Deities? Then how can Love become light and inconstant, which is the immutable and unchangeable decree of the immortal Deities? I speak not of feigned love, whose impression is not made perfect in the inmost rooms of the heart; but standing without such entering, is seated for a while on the outward eyelids: whose society is wary with a look, and lost with a wink: whose appendix is lust, and index lewdness. No, no, (quoth he) such, all such do I defy, not deify: such doth my breast abhor, and not uphold; yea, such doth my very soul loath, and never love: because it is no love. For even as Ixion instead of juno embraced a cloud, of which he begat monsters; So they that follow that shadow of love, in seat thereof (for want of infusoe substance from above) persist with lustful sin: whose contagion is shames nurse, and confusion the offspring. Here he breathed a while, and then thus proceeded. But whither away (jacomin) that thou runnest so swift a pace in thy discourse? Thru canst sooner number the stars, then reckon the diversities of love. Some are Saturnists, and love solitary conceits: Some are Martialists, and admire at the Tantaras of wars: Some Bacchinalls, and are wholly addicted to pamper their stomachs: Some Midas mates, that will have all they touch to turn to Gold: Some are like Minerva's Owl, that delight to praise themselves, and disdain others. And let them (said he) so wallow through and through in their humourous loves, guided only by their sensual appetites. Persevere thou in that heavenly affect, which through infused loyalty thou hast delighted: continue that course, which is through inspiration in thee begun: whose perfection, not all the power of the earth can make imperfect: whose perdurance, no battle are of violent passion can infringe, nor the wide world by any mean disjoin the band thereof, nor diminish the virtue.  
Having made a stop to his speech, he used endeavour for their departure: and having provided a Bark, and Mariners to conduct the vessel through Oceanus' watery regiment: giving a watchword at a time well appointed by the parties, for their conveyance aboard, fardling such necessaries up as were thought requisite, Katherine and himself at once were shipped: and the Mariners launched forth into the deep.  
I should have given you (kind Gentles) to understand, that at the very instant, that the poor woman (as is before recited) was their unsuspected messenger, Virgo was predominant: whose virtue contained betwixt these Lovers such authority, as that neither thought of perilous dangers to come, nor the plagues (if their drifts had been espied) then present, could confront them, or revoke them from their enterprise. So were their thoughts connected in chaste resolve, and their breasts coupled in firm fortitude.  
Now are you to consider, how Libra took his reign, as they entered the balanced bark: and was to them during the time that they remained under his dominion) both lucky and gladsome.  
For now the sails were spread in quiet: whilst a pleasant calm made the billows still mild, and gentle: the Sea-surges were depressed, not once striving to beat against th' opposite vessel: Neptune was banqueting with Amphitrite and Triton's trump summoned the water-Nimphes, the sirens, and Doris, and her darlings, and all the Ocean Deities, to appear under their Commmaunders triple Sceptre: to revel, and ride on Dolphins, accompanying him at his royal Court, whose arrival was there awaighted by the demie Gods of the lakes and rivers. The heavens were clear, and the sky as brightsome to behold, as the peerless shells on the Libyan shore. So that the Mariners past ken of the land, crying aloft boon fortune, and bidding jacomin and Catherina be of good cheer; roundly rung out this Rowly by.  

The Mariners Song.  

Brave lus●ie lads, hoist up the Sails,  
A gallant gale blows at the Poop:  
Near fear you storms till Anchor fails,  
And winds and waves even force us loop.  
Now East, north-east: from Helm near stir a,  
Good cheer my hearts: why there a (boy) there a.   

Bright shines the Sun, clear are the skies,  
Fair is the weather, calm the wind:  
No swallowing waves do surge or rise,  
Our mast and tackle stand in bind.  
By East, north-east: from Helm near stir a:  
Be blithe my hearts; why there a (boy) there a.   

Then masters come, and masters mate,  
Make merry with good Biske and Beer:  
And who so doth his liquor hare,  
Shall rue the roast whilst he rests here.  
Keep East, etc.   

Let every man a carol sing,  
In Aeolus and Neptune's praise:  
The one, to caves doth tempests swing,  
The other doth the floods appease.  
Hold East, etc.   

Sat on the Deck, and view the Seas;  
See how the Sea-nymphs swiftly swim;  
Look where the Fish's sport with ease;  
And Maire-maides their fair traces kimme.  
Go East, etc.   

As loud as Triton's Trump doth sound,  
(Whose voice is heard by waters all,  
And by grim Pluto neath the ground)  
row well ye Mariners, now call.  
So, East, north-east; from helm near stir a;  
Good cheer my hearts; why, there a (boy) there a.  
— Dum vela secundat,—  
Parat Fortuna procellas.    
Thus they made merrily for Spain, crossed with no misfortune; till Scorpio (stretching forth his fiery clées) seemed to stop the peaceable course of our Lead-starre: enforcing it to take his abode in the other Equinoctial point, quite opposite to that pleasant place, where it was resplendent at the beginning of the Spring. And hating to behold it in beauty, seems violently to drive it thence, farther forth unto sagittary; as if the monster meant by some meteor or ecliptic cloud to have it terrified, or at the least shadowed. Threatening it to have winter-like weather, (in stead of a fair harvest season) and to be molested in some respects with foggy enclosures, and bitter cold, mixed with very cold and windy moistures. What need I use ambages? the sequel of our lovers events will show, how there was some sign of changeable weather.  
For they had not sailed three days from Palermo, but that some Galleys appertaining to certain Pirates, that were whilom competitors in the conspiracy and rebellion (before in the beginning mentioned) 'gainst the King of Tunise, had espied them scouting: and being led with hope of getting some purchase or petty prize, made hastily towards them. Whom when the Barksmen had descried, not able (by reason of the calm) to make away from them, mistrusting they should be set on, provided their shotin readiness, as resolved to use their best endeavours to save their own. Soon had the Galleys overta'en them, and fiercely chased them: that the Bark at last was fetched up, and by them being boarded, yet valiantly resisted with hardy fight. Especially Iacomin, who (even desperate, careless whether he lived or died, so that his Katherine might be saved harmless) fought against the enemy with hearty courage, and valiantly (defending the distressed vessel) laid on load round about him: till that he was sore wounded, through encountering so many at their first entrances. At last through much bleeding he became faint: and then the pirates (driving the wearied and maimed Mariners to corners) rifled the Bark: And having found Katherine in the cabin (as they were searching for wealth) even all amort and woebegone, for this extreme misfortune; having neither remorse of her laments, nor respect of her vows, nor pity of her plaints, nor any compassion of her prayers, plucked her forth the cabin, carrying her perforce, conveyed her into their Galleys: And thus having taken all that was worth bearing away, turned towards Tunise.  
Iacomin with woeful eyes (scarce able through faintness to lift up his head) beholding his Katherine violently taken from him, vexed so much in mind, as did Pyramus (when he saw a part of Thisbe's kertle, torn by the gripes of a gréedia Bear) determined at that present (had he not been prevented) with mortal blade to end his miseries. But using patience perforce, through the Mariners helping means, as the wind and tide would afford, made after their enemies: hoping that way, sooner than on any other coast, to come a shore, and obtain succour.  
Was not this a shaking tempest (trow ye) to breed anew their torments? It was Scorpio that incensed these Rovers to fierceness, but Sagitarius that made them so mighty and magnificent in their attempts. Which now having gotten the spoils, wend with as great triumph towards Tunise (though they had been rebels) with beauteous Katherine; as did Paris with the Grecian Dame, towards Troy. For these Pirates hopes were laid (as you shall hear) on this foundation.  
The lusty Tunisian Prince, being made frolic (ever since the time that the two Sicilian families wrought means to beat down his enemies) by continued peace, was become as wanton and effeminate, as Sardanapalus: placing all his felicity in gallant women's beauty. And because he would not lack what his lustful mind best liked: at one end of the City (where he held his royal Court had he built a stately Castle: where whose walls were of perducable brick, and coverings brass, very fairly flourished with carved Images on the outmost limits. But the artificial divisions and partitions, with glorious Galleries, and decked Chambers within, were by the skill of a cunning hand, made superexcellent. All the walls were garnished with cloth of Arras, curiously wrought with rich knots of Gold, and spangled over with Carbuncles, Rubies, and precious Pearls: glezed in and out with singular shadows and pictures, passing curiously proportioned. There also had Art with néedle-worke portrayed the Histories of the Gods: jupiter counterfeiting the shape of Amphitryo, to gain the love of Al●mena; like a Swan, to win Leda; like a golden Shower, to gain Danae; and like a Bull, bearing on his back Pasyphae. There was portrayed Apollo, pursuing with speedy pace the Nymph Daphne: Luna shooting forth her horns, to embrace Endymion drowsily slumbering: Diana and her spotless darlings bathing in the brook, holding in their hands Cypress boughs, to shadow their beauties from the Sunbeams, over-pried by the gazing Forester Actaeon, whom she changed by (let flying at him a shaft) into a horned Heart. There might you have seen a woman wooing a man (viz.) Venus' courting Adonis: Echo following Narcissus: and Narcissus seeming to follow his own shadow in the brook. There was horned Pan portrayed, entreating Sirinx: whom at once he beheld metamorphosed into an Daten Reed. There was starr-eyed Poliphemus, passionate through love of the Nymph Galathea. There was Orpheus seen playing (on his Trée-and-stone-moving Harp) at the gates of Limbo, to bring back his lost Euricide. There Pluto, riding on a Coach of Ebony, lying in ambush to steal away Proserpina gathering flowers, was with his black Lords fitly deciphered. And not only these of the Gods, but also an infinite number of amorous counterfeits of lovesick men. There was imblazoned the City of Troy, and the glorious Palaces of king Priam: with all his valiant sons and daughters. There was Paris portrayed, marching in pomp, with a troop of gallants attending, through Troy, leading towards Ihum, the peerless Dame of Greece, hand in hand: whilst the princely Prophetess Cassandra, with hands raised to heaven, and hair hanging down over her shoulders, cried out, Graia iuuenco venit, etc.  
Such as these seemed common in that bowerly Paradise: for every Chamber seemed a mirror of delight. But that glorious edifice, which exceeded all the rest, was a Garret, which the king himself commonly at his pleasure would make his resting Pavilion. The side walls were overlaid with rich cloth of golo, over-diapred with admirable bright Margarites, and glorious Pirops: that in the night lightened with splendour the whole Chamber over with such clear shine, as in continuance it seemed, the burnished Sun never was fallen in the ocdent. The vaulted covering was shadowed with a gorgeous Canopy, branched about with Angelical features and glistering flowers.  
In the midst (directly under the Canopy) was placed a Chair, embossed with silk, and costly knobs of gold, so highly lifted as a stately Throne. Over the head thereof, arrayed in lively colours, was a Parliament of the Gods depainted, with gorgeous robes: Above all the troop of which glorious Synod, was portrayed a beauteous seat, whereon sat Cupid and his Love overlooking them all, and treading on great love and junos' Dyadems. Cupid held in his hand a fair Sceptre, wherewith (it seemed) he beckoned to all the rest, as if he commanded them: and his loves brows were garnished with a triple Crown, whereon Fortune lay figured bound in Fetters, and her wheel shivered in pieces: On his Sceptre was drawn in golden Letters this Poesy, Amor imperat astris: On her Crown was this Motto, Sicforma, Divos, fairly engraven. The frames of the fair windows made all with Adamantine stone and Crystal, beautified throughout with blazures of honourable Arms, would oppose Apelles pencyll to portraie, much more my pen: for all was as admirable, as the Palace of the radiant Sun: describing the which, as Ovid did conclude the one, so may I likewise end the other (leaving the rest to your conjectures) and say, Artificem superabat opus.  
This so glorious Castle, supplied the place of an Academy for beauteous dames: for therein were enclosed the choice dainties of the Country, for the kings only taste. They had all ease enough, but little liberty: fed and feasted sumptuously, but were never suffered to walk without doors: every one had a several Chamber for her own commodity, but could welcome none but the king their Lover: many wished (it may be) to have change of meats beyond commons: yet scarce any durst on death's penalty let enter other dish, than such as with allowance came from their Liege. So that, these sweets were crossed, with some sours: these dainties were constrainds from change of delicates, and all remained mewed for one man's diet. So that their happiness seemed not much more pleasant, than do their pleasures, that are imprisoned in courtly Towers, or mannacled with golden Fetters, or drink Cyrce● drugs in a guilted Cup, etc.  
This while (courteous Reader) had our Lodestar escaped with much ado the fierce sagittary, (though somewhat to the annoyance of his suscepted course) and had entered in the nineteen degree of Capricornus, which sign is very predominant over all those horned heads that simply sing Cuckoo. At whose shaggy form, it half seemed afraid, though his mild (which with him was not usual) aspect now, did import, that for a season he had shaken off his natural quality, as unaccustomed to any patience. For from his Goatish beard, in his rage would he shake, not only extreme winterly showers; but also heart-cutting frosts and tempests; as that Sol himself is enforced for avoidance of his boisterous stormings, to forsake that house with haste (standing on his farthest limit in the South) and to draw for his better quiet, near unto our climate: yet notwithstanding he now seemed mild and unwilde, like comfortable Zephyrus. Whether it were (also) for pretence of some mishap to happen to our Lodestar, or whether to show sign of a prosperous voyage, (it is farther to be doubted) but his moistened hoary hair now distilled fair dropping dews: (as the Crocodile sheds tears) and it may be, it was sign of some lamentable wailings. But to have all resolved, I will search through the whole progress of our Lodestar, and what I find happening, shall be unfolded accordingly.  
Now had the Pirates (setting their Galleys to ride safely by casting Anchor within the harbour) brought Katherine on shore: and intending to present her to the king, thereby to get pardon for their misdemeanours forepast, spoke her fairly, willing her to be frolic. And to depress her sorrows made merry at an Inn, taking wholesome carouses both of Beer and Wine, in quaffing bowls: yet could not their liquor of life engender any solace in subjecteth Katherine. Yet at last was she brought to the court, and presented before the wanton Prince: whose heart was strait set on fire by the lustres (though now dimmed with watery dews) that sparkeled from her eyes: that the Pirates were not only forgiven▪ their amiss, but also were recompensed with royal rewards. So that they accounted the time and hour most lucky and fortunate, when their eyes held in ken, and their hands began to encounter with those that had the carriage of such a worthy prize.  
The king had great compassion on the discomfort of his new Saint, unto whose shrine he offered his persuasive Orison.  
Beauteous (quoth he) cloudy looks (the messengers of careful minds) are for rustic Clowns of the Country, not companions for the looks of courtly Dames. Be blithe (beauteous) be blithe: banish melancholy from thy delicate breast: let mirth hold holiday in thy cheeks, and let pinching melancholy be driven unto extreme exile: Be thy mind jocund, thine heart frolic, and thy thoughts light. Where as before thou wert Chances bondslave, now shalt thou reign in the happy favour of a King: whose smiles shall support thee, whose looks shall comfort thee, and sweet words delight thee. Thou shalt have pleasure, without penance: thou shalt rejoice, without any annoyance: and in thine own hands hold sweet content, void of all crossing and discontenting grievances.  
Whilst thine years are tender, thyself youthful, and thy face flourishing with fragrant feature, follow the joys, that belong unto thy years: seek the pleasures, that Nature hath allowed thine youth to possess: and be partaker of these delights, as are comparable to thy springing beauty. Let the ancient (whose hairs old age hath made frosty, in whose brows time hath painted furrows, and whose backs the weights of many cold winters have bowed) seem choleric, because they are crusty: and disconsolate, because their bloods are become cold, their limbs weak and chilly. Be believe and wanton (Girl) for seven years longer lives a merry mind, than a heavy heart. Let thine Alabaster breast be a Bower, for Venus' Doves, that Cupid attending them, may with disport rend thine Aperne-strings.  
What sweeter conceit, what fi●ter humour, what prittier dispose, than for youth to be lusty, and lively to entertain and welcome love? Then clear (sweet beauty) the Crystal coverture of thy eclipsed eyes; and thou shalt be brought into a bower, which to thy sight shall seem no less pleasant, than portly: where thou shalt behold seats, that even exceed Ioues silver footstool; and tread in walks, that in compare blemish not a little the milk-white way.  
There shall divers brave Dames and fair Damsels (whose features dash with disgrace the beauteous Goddesses that str●ue before Paris for the golden Ball) shall bid thee welcome with kind salutes. The Girls, that shall await on thee (attendant both at beck and call) shall for gracious aspect, drive coy Campaspe out of countenance. The meat which thou shalt taste, shall far surpass the dainties that were served before Damocles: or set before the cruel Belides, or presented even to the very lips of hungry Tantalus. Thy drink shall be sweeter than the juice of those precious Apples that grow in the Gardens of the Hesperides: and rest more liquorice in the receptacles, than the life-lengthning Nectar and Ambrosia. The mirth, which the curious and well strooken Instruments shall yield forth to glad thy pensive mind, shall be as delightsome as the sounds of Apollo's Lute, or as the tunes of the Heliconides. The bed whereon thou at thine own pleasure shalt take rest, shall be more soft than Down, and more glorious than that Cubile where angry Vulcan ensnared amorous Mars, and his amiable Venus: the whole Synod of the Gods to their shame beholding both the lovely captives.  
All this receive as truth (fair creature) for thine eyes & ears, and all thine other endued senses, shall witness it for truth. Only would I wish thee, be merry; cast away all actoying care; look lively and lovely; and thou shalt be as fortunate as Pirrha, Deucalion's Fere: and live as ancient as Sibilla, Apollos love.  
There he made a period to his oblative Anthem, the whole sum whereof, seemed as acceptable to woeful Katherine's ears, as the talk of Will Summer, to a mind malcontent: or the Tales of Mother Redde-cappe, to an heartsick Patient: or Scoggins jests related to one meditating on the seven Sobs of a sorrowful Soul.  
This Oblation being offered, he calls for a silver Bowl of Muscadine: which being brought him, he uttered this Saluie.  
Now (beauteous) banish these deadly dumps, the king himself deigns to salute thee with the pure liquor of the Grape: here's's a health to thee (and therewithal drank a hearty draft) to drive off thy agonies: Hold, take; I have taken half, and therefore 〈◊〉 me right, and drink up the remnant.  
Katherine wiping her wailing eyes, as having ta'en some small heart▪ agrace, framed modestly this reply. Although (egregious Prince) it fits not Fortunes meacocks, to seem courtly with kings; nor Captives, to cry checkmate with their keepers: yet sith your highness is so graciously bend toward the welfare of me worthless and unworthy wretch, I will not deny to pledge your highness. And having so said, took a good wholesome draft of the Wine.  
The king then (pleasantly conceited) asked her what bedfellow she would desire to have? And she answered, she desired such a one, as would for dishonour (like libidinous Tereus) seek neither to defile her, nor like a lewd Priapus to defame her: For it is better be killed than live with cracked credit.  
Whose so chaste answer, gave a memorandum to the wanton demaunders meaning: and yet because he would not seem to be rubbed on the gall, bolted forth this insinuation.  
But yet (beauteous) quoth he, if a lovely wight would bear you company in bed, I deem you not so disdainful, as to depel him with denial? Why, and it please your royalty (said she) unbidden guests are never best welcome at a banquet; neither unto a woman is acceptable any unknown bedfellow.  
Which dry buffet made him even dumb; for shame would not suffer him to reveal his own lavishness, and therefore with the Lapwing, he thus cried far from his nest.  
Well (pretty peat) quoth he, thy mind as yet disagreeth within itself, because it is not partaker of any pleasant good. To change which appalling and oppressing property, thou shalt be conducted to that place of pleasure, whence doth remain exiled all melancholy passions. I cannot imagine thee greater good, neither will I do thee a less commodity. And so provided attendants to conduct Katherine to the Castle.  
As the glorious Sun began to drench his fire-breathing Stéeds in the cold Ocean, and the gladsome daylight was shadowe● by the night's gloomy clouds: Iacomin (almost made death's Captive through weakness) with his other sickly Companions, had gotten land, even on the shore of this same City, where Katherine was brought for a present to the Prince. And having obtained lodging for himself and the rest of his heartless followers, was taken in cure by a cunning Surgeon: all the company at the Inn (where he lay) bewailing the heartilesse downefal and distress of so fair a person.  
Katherine in the mean time being come to the Castle, beholding it without, somewhat wondered: but when she beheld within the gresses and steps guiding them unto several Enclosures (whose imblazures were no less resplendent, than the glorious jasper, or a multitude of goodly Emeralds) she was overcome with incredible admiration. Some salutes being imparted towards her by many of the Dames there resident: she was placed by those of the King's Guard (according to his majesties command) in a most pretty Closette, all about garnished with flowers so lively portrayed, as that Art seemed to go beyond Nature in her works: For there were Roses so depainted and framed, as if they were but then plucked and brought from the Garden: bearing so varnished a die, as did Zeuxes Artificial Grapes, which the Birds beguiled, did often prick at with reaching beaks.  
There was a square Table, by the nimble Servitors strait covered over with delicious dainties: To eat whereof Katherine was invited, both by some Damsels, that at poynt-devise awaited on her: and entreated by the other Dames, that welcomed her, as best allowed for that purpose.  
Little was it, that Katherine tasted; less, that her passionate stomach digested: and lest of all, that her grieved mind delighted. Only her wandering eyes even fed on divers sights, so far forth, that they seemed never satisfied sufficiently.  
As she sat at meat, she held in ken, portrayed with a most perfect platform in cloth of Arras, the proportion of the famous City Athens: to have pre-eminence whereof, Minerva accompanied with all the Muses (whose forms were rarely polished, holding in their hands divers Instruments, but Minerva bearing a Book) held a controversy with Neptune (who held in her hand a threefold Mace) and all his Demi● Gods.  
In the midst of which contention, there seemed to appear unto them an admirable water▪ Nymph, even fair Thetis: whose admirable looks (like the suns austers) so piercest Neptunes cordyalls, that to win favour, he granted to yield up the dominion of all his lande-Citties unto the hands of the contending Goddess.  
Taking hold on whose promise, Minerva for him won the Nymph, and gained the free government of Athens. Underneath that Portraiture was set this Poesy: Arma quae violant, vinciunt amores.  
What Tabletalk the wanton Wagtails (that were her copesmates) to increase merriment, and decrease melancholy, for recreation their minds then used, it skills not to repeat: and therefore shall be omitted, to avoid troublesome prolixity.  
For no man is so dunstical, that cannot conjecture folly in the smiles, and vanity in the speeches, of such vile housewives.  
The Table taken up, they walked a while to behold the variety of Arts ornaments, spread round about this metropolitan house.  
And when Katherine had thoroughly viewed and reviewde all, she set down her censure for a Principle, that Omnia vanitas.  
When time gave Morpheus liberty, with his enchanting notes, to bedull men's vigilant senses, summoning all human bodies to recreating rest: (the sky being masked with a dusky vail, and only made brightsome by the glimmering appearance of some set Stars) Katherine, by the company being brought again unto her settled Chamber, (the place that was appointed her to solace in) all bidding her good night, and the Keeper locking fast the Chamber door (as he commonly used and was accustomed every Night, to shut, lock, and bolt fast the rest) in place of slumbering, she waxed again sorrowful: in stead (on that sumptuous bed) to take quiet, she stood at the window with ●yes most careful: in place of sweet content, entertaining within her breast sharp discontent: reckoning all proffered pleasure, as peril: all delicates, but dregs: all courting, but counterfeit: and all the pleasant Uyands, but plain vanity. And from the abundance of striving thoughts, her voice (the minds enterpreter) uttered this Homily.  
Is it worthy the title of beauty, or blemish, to have the body purpled, and the soul polluted? The Serpent (that in Paradise beguiled Eva) knew not how to entice her to eat the forbidden Apple, but by bidding her behold the beauty thereof, (for the rind seemed sweet, and the taste to see the core, bred a sour infection) whose wittiness overwinning their wits to agree unto that pleasure, procured an unrecitable punishment. The King (Katherine) hath placed thee in a semblable delightsome Eden, promising thee pleasure, without pain: mirth, without moan: joy, without annoy: solace without sorrow: and all delight, without any dolours: whose allurements, if thou reject not: whose blandishments, if thou ban not: and templations, if thou temperate not: thy mind will be blemished, thy conscience stained, thy thoughts polluted, and thy heart infected.  
What is it to view the glorious architecture of this depainted house? but (as it were) to look on the Apple with Eva? And what will it be to taste the pleasures that this place presents, but even to swallow morsels of procuring penalty with Eva? So that as that on the one side, so this on the other, imparts a map of horrid misery.  
But more literately to define, what is this polished place, but (like a painted Sepulchre) an habitation for rotten bones? What are these pretty coverings, but representments of shadowed evils? what are these drawn flowers, but species of follies? these pictures, but the genus of vices? these golden spangling knobs, but the accident of ill haps? to conclude, what is the cloth of Arras and all, but even the proprium of all perils, the subject of all pollutions, and the continent of all calamities?  
Some Humerists in their Similes, compare women to Sirens: their faces to the favour of Medusa: their speeches to the laughtures of Hyena: and their wail to Crocodiles tears. All which slanderous compares, are to be objected to their Author's envy, not to women's deserts: t●at (poor souls, being weaker vessels) are borne by the provocations of men, unto a thousand mischiefs. Though Medea were a sorceress, yet could not her drugs (though mighty to work miraculous metamorphoses) constrain men to keep their affections within the lists of continency. For in fierceness, they exceed the angry Tiger: in wiliness, equalize the subtle For: in wantonness, accompany the toyish Ape: in lust and lewdness, surpass the libidinous Goat: in cruelty, go beyond the ravenous Wolf: and in anger, wax more wrathful than the roaring Lion: and only through them, are women brought to wretchedness.  
Now doth the prospective of this contemplation present before my thoughts, a double genus contained 'mongst men (viz.) a good and bad. On the one side stands (and then shaking her head, she fetched a grievous sigh) my dear, ah! (and then groaned) my dearest love and life, estranged jacomin. On the other side sits the wanton King (ah! that these should seem to protect and govern others, that cannot direct nor guide themselves) who seeketh the spoil of my chastity. The one have the unjust Deities thrown down to distress, the other have they extolled with partial dignity. The one was alway the Disciple of Virtue: the other remains a servitor unto vice. The one directed and obedient to divine love, the other subjecteth and attendant on devilish lust. And yet are they both men: and yet the one lives orderly like a reasonable creature: and the other without good order, even like a brutum quoddam.  
Ah! now I see that the blind Goddess (whom men commonly call Fortune) holdeth highest dominion on the earth (whose partial hand (through her buzzardly blindness) deals gifts to the undeserved, and bestows small benefits on good deserts) else am I surely persuaded, the virtuous should never be so continually crossed, and the vicious so pleasantly and majestically supported.  
Shall the faithful and honest wight be thrust on thorns of tribulations? and shall dishonest and lewd venereous tread on Roses? Shall the good eat Coleworts with the Cynic? and the bad feed on dainties with the Courtier? Are the one constrained to drink the Wormwood water, and the other suffered freely to carouse bowls of Wine? Ah heavens! Ah Deities!  
What is the earth then, but the upholder of iniquity, and destroyer of justice? And how may that be, when the Gods thereon have constituted mortal members, (till they are by death all called thence) with uprightness to remain? and spend their mortality with such Angelical integrity, as that when their lives leave the earth, they may be immortalised in the glorious heavens? Ah how blind is the earth, that can be content to be mapt with the vail of vanity? Virtue bandieth daily against Vice, but Vice is had in such regard, as though the mightiness of those vile multitudes (that Championlike brave it, maugre virtues worthy martialists, whose honours have been achieved by shedding and sustaining the loss of their lively blood) that seem to saveguard that deceitful Strumpet: the world is led captive, to be observant to all most wretched and villainous misdemeanours.  
And therefore, by how much the company of virtues Soldiers are the scarcer, by so much more worthy are their famous Uictories to be registered in the Records of eternal Remembrance.  
The renowned Virginius of Rome, rather respected his daughter's virginlike martyring death, than to save her life, to live in lewdness with dishonour.  
Chaste Lucrece grieving at her violent rape, to eschew the disgrace of her enforced offence, would by no means be persuaded to live, but cut off her days (to avoid discredit) with a deadly knife. Daphne the Nymph, to save her honesty, wished rather to remain for ever in the Bark of a bay tree: than for lewdness to be made a Bear, as was the Trull that afterward being in danger (whilst she wandered in the woods with Lycaon, Actaeon, Priapus, and such leaudones, like a beast) to be stain by the shaft of her own son: was by jupiter taken up in a cloud, and made the Star Vrsa Maior, and her son, Vrsa Minor. Biblis lamenting her misdemeanour with continual and uncessant tears, never remitted her heart from sighs, and her breast from swelling sobs, nor her mind from woeful thoughts, until she became even a watery Fountain.  
Hast thou read all these (Katherine) or at leastwise heard these and many more? and yet dost thou refrain to follow any of their famous examples? Wilt thou be content to a be King's Concubine, and spot thy soul with sins (that is new as white as the driven Snow) as black and ugly as pitch? Be mindful (vile caitiff) at thy birth: the sincerity of thy parents, and virtues of thy friends: and wilt thou then become the only blemish of thy kindred through vile folly?  
Then she raged, and thus abandoned her ill haps. Avaunt (quoth she) you infernal Furies, and hellish hags, that tempt a woeful Soul after the sufferance of disannulling miseries, to taste of sugared mischiefs. Why seek you co ensuare me with your poisoning baits, on guilded hooks? I am not yet provided for the draft of your perditions nets. My good Genius guide me in these extremes, and help to unloose me from their entangling snares: for if I rightly consider mine own cause, I was never in such dangerous case. I am shut up in a glorious prison, to serve sin like a jail▪ whelp: and there is no man that friends me so much, as in my behalf to set in bail, to free me from this servitude. But my noble mind (that took life from the loins of Princes) will never (I hope) debase itself so low, as to yield itself a servile bondslave to the greatest Monarch in the world, to serve his lust.  
How are all comforts exiled (Katherine) from this Cabin? The spangled imblazures glister like Silkwormes in the dark, as if they meant to sport thine eyes with sparklings, as full of fairness, as the purple-coloured topaz. But by these art thou driven to behold thine own ruth: look on the Stars, and contemplate with the Moonshine, (both which shut forth their rays against the Glass-windows) and in their glory see thine own grief: in their feature, thy deformity: in their speculation, the respect of thy estimation, which not long sithence seemed as glorious, as their radiant graces. Better had it been, thou hadst with the setting Sun, been drenched in the Ocean deeper, than follow this course to thy confusion. Worthier of renown mightest than have been reckoned, by the merciless blades of the butcherly Pirates to have lost thy life, than thus to lose the liberty of thy chaste li●ing. Better to have endured the outrageous rebukes of thine angry Parents at Palermo, then here to be banqueted in a strange land, with infecting and sinne-saluing blandishments. O times! O days! O intemperable manners! O times, of vicious living! O days, of virtuous abolishing! O intemperate manners, of abominations engendering! The first to be hated, the other to be rejected: and the third to be annihilated.  
Ah wretched Katherine! distressed Katherine! molested and amazed Katherine! Thou escapest all the Monsters on Seas, and yet wert made a spoil unto men: and by them, art made a prey for a cursed human monster: as mighty as the Dragon that was to devour Andromeda, whom stout Theseus rescued: but there is no Theseus to rescue thee from expected scathe. Couldst thou frame such a web for resistance as did the constant Dame of Ithica, the good Penelope; or invent such a clue to bring thee out of this Labyrinth, as did Ariadne; then, ah! then, couldst thou hope to avoid this danger, and be requited of all damage.  
And yet despair not (Katherine) in these extremes: Daienera found a shirt, to wreak her wrongs on Hercules: Medea a Garland of poisoning flowers, to revenge her quietly on faithless jason: and the Gods may grace thee with the gift of some drift invented, to stop the lustful pretence of this lecherous Tunisian.  
Do no endure (O sacred juno) a modest maiden (that hath vowed unto her Fere the observance of nuptial rights) to be defiled; rather give her courage to cut her breast (like the Carthaginian Dido) and end her life with chaste desire, than live to be polluted, by the embracings of beastly lust.  
Which having said, she fell flat on the floor, with her face towards the ground: and with hearty compunction of a passionate soul, prayed and called on all the blessed and deified powers of the Olympic Regions, to be propitious unto her plaints, and by on● good mean or other, in some good time to end her woes.  
With these disquiet motions (oh that any modest maiden should have such cause of disquiet) spent she the long and weary winter's night, till Aurora opened her purple doors in the East, strewing the places (there about her dwelling) with fair coloured Roses, and sweet Violets. About which time, her eyes dulled with heaviness, began to enclose, as if then they would not seem to behold. the glorious artsing of Phoebus' rays: nor see his horses breath from their nostrils flakes and fierce flames on the huge mountains: for the Chamber windows lay directly by Southeast; on which climate, the Sun in winter season appeareth commonly twelve minutes after the eight hour in the fore noon. And then it seemed she fell into a slumber, and in her sleep beheld a vision, which I shall plainly versitie in this manner.  

Katherina's Vision.  
juno with Phoebe (who no great while gone,  
Had kissed the cheeks of slow Endymion)  
Walked hand in hand: them followed Morpheus,  
Playing on golden Lute, like Orpheus.  
After him, Aboron and his Fairy Dame,  
With troops of jocund Fairies dancing came.  
Then did appear the crew of Phoebe's train,  
All clad in white array (like flower Dumain.)  
And in their feitures fair (as summers Queen)  
At girdle bare quivers of arrows keen.  
Following them (off a pretty measured space)  
A troop of satires entered into place:  
Leading Dame Fortune, fettered fast in chains,  
(So Fates decreed, for breeding lovers pains)  
All these looked pleasant; none were seen to lower,  
Save Fortune, that in thraldom had small power.  
They near the place where Katherine lay:  
Thus then 'gan juno to fair Phoebe say.  
Long time (too long) this wight endued with graces  
Through Fortune's spite (that thwarteth with disgraces  
All virtuous creatures, that on earth remain:  
Extolling Vices crew in Court to reign)  
Having endured great grievances and crosses,  
Is robbed of friends, that should redress her losses.  
Now time requires she have some comfort given,  
For wounding woes her soul have overgrieven.  
No Nymph of all my train (than Phoebe said)  
Hath lived more chaste and virtuous than this maid:  
And for that cause (Ioues Queen) none more than I,  
With helping hand would guard her chastity.  
Thus then spoke Aboron with haughty voice;  
The Fairy King (dread Beauties) doth rejoice  
That Morpheus summoned hath this Parliament,  
T'enact a fit concluding consequent.  
When waggish Cupid chauncst to wound her heart,  
At first unwares with golden pointed Dart.  
(As Fortune now lives) lived then servilely  
To please his mother, in my custody.  
Wherefore my mind is willing, forward priest,  
To have her woes and miseries redressed.  
My nimble Fairies shall direct her make,  
That near these walls he shall his passage take.  
And stirred by loyal Love, shall give consent  
That night to lie with her, through due event.  
And from their breasts I'll drive all fear and care,  
(Morpheus replied whilst they together are.  
And she (quoth Phoebe) mean while shall not lack  
My help, to bring her envious foes to wrack.  
Then juno said (whilst Fortune to herself)  
Auowde to thwart them, and the Fairy Elf,)  
After 'tis known they both are man and wife,  
I'll grant them happiness all days of life.  
Happy, happy, happy (than did they call)  
Shall these true Lovers live: And vanished all.   
By that time that the Sun was mounted near (by ●he carriage of his swift flying horses) unto the Meridian, had Katherine cact off slumbering; and with received comfort, began to consider on her (foresaid) Dream, and to contemplate on the vision.  
And may it be (said she) that the just Deities will deign a wretch such favour, as propitiously to rescue her in midst of hard extremes! Then (poor soul) prostrate thyself, and power forth grateful prayers, to their divine powers.  
Then she uttered a thankful Hymn of praises and grateful thanks, led with good hope that her joys should again be replenished: which fell out indifferently, as I will specify by these accidents, and first concerning our Lodestar.  
Our Lodestar continuing uncessantly his course, will appear this evening in Vespers place, at his appearance, somewhat beautiful, till Aquarius seem to dash him out of countenance, with enclosures of misty clouds, and watery showers: which for a time shall reign in multitudes.  
Iacomin had not long soiournied at the Inn, (having kept his bed a day or two, more to get ease in mind, than for trouble of any dangerous disease in body: marry his wounds were somewhat green) but that his hurts were cured, and his body currant; yet in his mind continued such a corrosive, as made his colour change, his complexion alter, and his strong composition extenuate. And all these disparagements wore engendered by despairing thoughts for Katherine, his dearest love and delight: whom he accounted utterly lost. With vacant steps he treads through and through the streets of the City, inquiring of many (whom in his walks he met) for a woman lately taken on the Seas by certain Galleys, but could neither be informed of the one, nor hear of the other. Which made him in mind so outrageous, as the furious Palatine, when he suspected, Medor had played false with his Angelica, abandoned all laws of reasonable consideration, and cried out, woe, woe, woe, accursed caitiff. I will (quoth he) walk henceforth poorly (as fits my fortunes) in Pilgrimage: and will with hearty devotions offer oblations of peace, and Orisons to possess quiet at the shrines of all Saints, as my wandering steps shall conduct me to their Tombs and Temples. And when I chance to look on any lovers mishaps, I will adjoin as a note marginal, Sic Iacomin cum Katherine. In which impenetrable resolution, discharging and discarding his followers, acquitting their costs, and contenting his Hostess, having paid all dues to all (saving to Nature) with farthel at his back (like a travailer) posted out of Town, and kept his course that way, where his Katherine was enclosed. Pacing by the Castle (at which he wondered, it seemed in show so flourishing) he stayed his steps a little, gazing at the engraven and carved Images with earnest looks, imagining it to be some worthy Monastery. Having sufficiently satisfied his sight, as he began in his way to foot it forward, Katherine (having before espied him) eyeing him from a Casement of the wide window, called Iacomin by name, twice or thrice aloud: unto the which voice, after that a while he had listened, inquired, who calleth jacomin? And therewithal lifting his eyes aloft at the windows, saw her face, whom his heart so highly honoured. What Catherina (quoth he?) ay, I, thy Katherine (my dears Iacomin) said she: And then for exceeding joy both even remained surprised with a swooning trance, having their senses even engaged by an ecstasy: But remembering themselves, jacomin began to inquire how she happened into that hold, and to whom the house that held her so severely was belonging? She repeated the whole sum and substance briefly unto him: which jacomin having heard, And pity 'tis, I trow (said he) that so fair a place, should serve for so fowl a purpose. But what remedy (sweet heart) replied Katherine: here stands mine honour in hazard, and my credit in suspense: every hour await I, when he will offer (shameless tyrant as he is) to give an assault to crack my chastity: all which yet remain sound and perfect, wholly dedicated and devoted unto thee, as unto their worthiest possessor and only Patron. Protect them then (dear jacomin) and enjoy them: whilst thou livest leave them not, in the hands of others, if thou love them: For as the Bird Atagen, is said never to sing after she is taken: no more can a modest maid rejoice, if once she chance by lusts insnarings to be overtaken. Then as we love one another, so let us live together: or if the date of our days hasten towards an end, let us end our hues at once together. Return till soon at night (good Love) from whence you came, and when you behold the night begins to cover the Eastern climate with pitchy clouds: repair again to this place, and bring with thee some strong cords, by whose help thou mayst having once climbed that craunched Tree (for a troop of Cedars, as lofty as those of Liba●us, flood prying with their stately toppe-boughes near the wintowes) by my help winding thee up, mayst come into this open Casement. Or if thou fearest to adventure thyself to ascend so high, for fear thou shouldst miss both thy footing and holdfast, and so sustain a fall (which the heavens forebid, that thou in Katherine's sight shouldst suffer) yet will thy countenance comfort me, whilst I remain comforted by thy reclaiming conference.  
Then answered jacomin (his heart dancing the while within his reconciled breast) unto her motion mentioned with these fervent speeches.  
By the immortal Gods (fair and faithful Love) said he, who with my good Angel have governed my feet directly to find this place (by following with prosperous pace a happy path) I solemnly here in the sight of heaven, and aspect of the heavenly powers, avow, even anon in the twilight, to return hither again with all speed convenient: At which time (Katherine) see that thou set the Casement wide open, in sign thou dost expect my coming.  
By that love which loyally I owe thee, (said Katherine) I promise it: And perform it too, I trust (quoth jacomin:) I, and I live (said she) till that appointed time: as sure as I kiss this hand in stead of your delicious lips, I wil  
And (quoth he) as certainly as I buss this fist, wishing I might as easily touch your fair cheeks, for requital of your tried friendship, I will not fail to be here at that present.  
Which speeches by both parties, with many more protestations being breathed forth, and sundry beckonings made, after that they were silent, Iacomin repaired again to his former Lodging.  
His honest Host and Hostess were exceeding glad to behold their Guest, and so were the rest, for that they perceived his outrage was now quelled by reason. He told them, he had been comforted by a Friend, and that he would not trouble them to make any provision for his Supper, because he was in a manner fore-syed, because forebidden to feast that night abroad. But yet will I drink (quoth he) a cup of Canary in my Chamber, if you please. With a very good will said his Host. And so the one went to his Chamber, and the other went till the Wine.  
After that Katherine had lost the sight of her Love, thinking every minute a month, and every hour a year, till he should return: her mind being moved with exceeding admiration, she silly licensed her tongue thus to be talkative as followeth.  
What glory, is comparable to gracious good will? or what life, equal to love? Courtly pomp decayeth through pestiferous dissensions, as can my Parents broils make manifest in Palermo: And life is alway in hazard to be lost: witness the miseries of the maimed, and mishaps of the mightiest: and the fall of these Kings and Emperors, can testify, certify and certificate thus commonly specified.  Hector, Hanna, Hannibal dead; and Pompey, Pyrrhus spilled, Scipio, Cyrus, Caesar slain; and Alexander killed. 
And yet good will (quoth she) continueth after death; else had not Achilles so cruelly revenged the fall of his dear friend (slain by Hector's Lance) again on valiant Hector. Nor Hercules with his Club on shoulder, and clad in his lions Case, would have so strived to revoke his dear Pirethous from the shades of Limbo: Oh, the surpassing virtue of friendly goodwill, (which conjoins a Pelides with Orestes, and a Damon in firm league with Pitheas) is continual, perdurable, and eternal.  
And as for love, more delicious, than the sweet kernel of the Nut; more comfortable, than the sugared juice of the Grape; more savoury, than the wholesome smell of Myrrh: endureth long, long after life is ended; else would not Orph●us stirred on through the essence of love, have sought by sounding music to pacify the angry powers of Hell: and so require of black Pluto, the restoring to life again of his lost Love, lately made his Bride. O the admirable and unrehearseable polver of good wil● O the glorious and gracious virtue of sovereign love! Without the which, light, is but like darkness: life, but death: gold, but dross: health, but sickness: might, but misery: joy, but annoyance: ease, but disease: and in fine, the whole Earth, but a confused Chaos.  
If all the precepts of the Sages, all the principles of Philosophers, and all the praises that have took proceedings from Poet's brains, were settled on this subject: yet could not the foresight of the one, the wisdom of that, nor the wit of the other, comprise a period, the efficacy, essence, & virtue thereof. Then much less mayst thou Katherine express the summary effect, of so exquisite a quintessence: or show but the representing shadow, of such a rare superficies: Thy tongue falters, though thy thoughts fail not: feeding on such an excellent substance, whose fullness seems to satisfy thee, and yet in no respect remaineth lessened.  
Having so said, she waxed silent, and had her mind exercised with muses: which ravished her senses with such supernal conceits, as that her heart even reckoned itself deified.  
Iacomin in the mean time at his lodging rested careful, bearing an eye to the main chance, and the days change: that now was even overtaken by the fresh Horses of the night. High time was it now for him, to hasten, and love so suffered him not to be slack, that he was at the Castle, had climbed the Tree, and nimbly by agility, ascended and entered the Casement (which his Love had set wide open) before that Katherine thought him half towards her. For he minded not to call unto her, until he had past the danger of climbing, least that his downful (if so it chanced) should breed her dolour.  
When she beheld her Love creeping in at the Casement (driven with his sudden presence from her momento) she ran and received him in her arms with an hearty Saluie. And when they had imparted mutual congees, (their eyes courting each other with amorous glances and steady looks) they tell to lovely embracings: and thus questioned jacomin whilst he held her about the middle with folding arms.  
Katherine (said he) fervent love hath made me light, to gain thy company: and now sudden doubt gives the onset against my breast, and suspect of afterclaps assaults my heart with hard battery, to make me yield unto despair. But the heavens and all the celestial Godheads know, the undaunted fortitude of my zealous affections, and the constant motion of my love-hallowing mind. For though seven-mouthed Nilus should wax dry, and that I should endure the thirst of Tantalus; or if my bread should turn to stones, and I abide more toil than Sisyphus: If the earth should he turned to steel, the sea be set a fire, and the stars forsake the sky and become bars of brass to affright me, to the intent I should change the motion of my life, or forsake love; yet would I rather endure ten thousand deaths, than he found for my minds mutation, faithless, faltering fickle and so faulty. And therefore (swéte Katherine) I conjure thee by the divine essence of that love, wherewith through the infusion of heavenly graces thou art inspired, towards me, tell me if the lewd king hath appointed any time to visit thee? By heavens innumerable joys (said she) possessed by all the blessed Senate there, (dear Love) I avow, thy Katherine never gave consent that at any time the king's presence should repair hither; neither have I heard by any, that he minds to visit me. Have all bidden thee good night then (quoth jacomin) and hath the keeper fast locked the doors, or is not yet departed the Castle? Long since (said she) and therefore you need not doubt (I hope) of any danger: For no thief on earth I protest whist I have breath, shall rob you of your right and interest.  
These Lamps had not long possessed the oil of their parley, to lighten their thoughts, but that (after they had both together made them unready, and were laid in bed) dim sleep drowsily eclipsed their eye beams, with cloudy slumbers. So that their minds, ere while the maps of cares, and entertainers of watchful woes, were now (Endimion-like) grown careless; respecting neither fearful Cautions, nor doubtful Caveats.  
This while was the King with his Guard come to the Castle, to court with lovely Rhetoric his newcome Goddess, deeming, that now her moody mind, was by the pleasure of the place, become mirthful; and her heart, erst harned with sorrow, to be now softened with solace. And causing the keeper to unlock the gates, ascended the grosses, and came to Katherine's Chamber door, willing him to open it: wherein when he entered, and beheld other lying there in bed, embracing his Venus; not able to endure that sight, he flung forth the chamber, giving them strait charge and command, that when these sléepers should awake, they should both be bound back to back to a stake, and end their lives (as traitors ought) in flames of fire: and having pronounced that wrathful doom, with rage departed.  
Here (Gentles) should I tell you, how juno being incensed with anger for this accident, committed through Fortune's spite, (descending down from Olympus in her glorious Chariot, drawn by her birds, whose starr-●ied prancing plumes present before their mistress eyes, so many pretty colours, as doth the Rainbow in the heavens) checked her presumption with an Egregiam vero laudem; and blamed the Fairies and satires for their slackness; bidding them to bind fast her hands straighter, that she might not turn so thwartfully her maligning wheel. But that must I needs cut off to avoid tediousness: yet will I give you to know, that after she had rung a peal of scolding at Fortune (on the one side) and had gently (on the other side) chastised the negligence of her leaders; she entreated Morphens to observe his part yet in any case: avowing by all her Deity, rather than this fair couple should endure any wrack, she would herself at the instance brandish forth with Majesty, to withstand all those that should perform their executions.  
Flames? (said she) shall scorching flames consume my worthy subjects? No, I'll send Boreas, both with winds and showers to quench the fires: Whilst with Hymenaeus help, I'll hide them, as erst I did Aeneas and Dido, in some vaulty Cave.  
And so commanded her glorious Fowls (whose wings and taile-plumes stood proudly spread) in haste to carry her unto the highest heavens, from whence she entered to behold the consequent: minding wholly to conserve them both in safety, although she should see them bound at stake, and stand in extremest peril of kindling flames.  
Sound yet rested these slumberings friends (little thinking what sour sauce the King had ordained, minding it should be mingled 'mongst their sweets) till the travailing Sun was gone well onward in the East: All which time did the King's Guard attend them. Assoon as their eyes awaking opened, they were informed of the Kings being there, and of his bloody sentence, pronounced against them. Whereat first they mourned, but afterward well resolved to endure their menaced death, made themselves ready to take the end of their lives on earth.  
Now (my Love) quoth Katherine, shall the world behold in us, a spectacle, presenting fidelity. In thee, love; in me, loyalty; in thee, constancy: in me, chastity: in both, firm affection and sure confidence.  
As she would proceed, the Executioners came, and bound their arms, which both endured with admired patience: the punishers pitying their distress with some kind remorse, and would have spared them, had not they all been bound on pain of death, to do the King's command.  
This while were some busied in putting up the stake, some providing Faggots, Pitch ●ales, Straw, and all other Fuel: Which breeding a rumour with sudden admiration, in vulgar ears, multitudes came in heaps unto the place of execution, expecting the performance of a woeful stratagem.  
Forth at last were brought these woeful Lovers, guarded on each side with Bills and Holbards, like rebellious Traitors: and bound they were to the stake, back to back, contrary to their minds: who earnestly entreated the araigners, to suffer them end their lives face to face. But the cruel King had otherwise given in charge, and that bred their greatest grief. Yet patience prevailed with them in this their too severe handling.  
What, my dear, (quoth jacomin) they may by this separation rob us, of comfortable countenance in this frail and transitory life: but their cruelty cannot bereave us of sight in the glorious Sphere on high, when our immortal ghosts going towards Ioue● Palace, shall meet in the milk-white way. Which words (uttered with ghastly voice) moved at the beholders to bewail the downfall (with dewy tears) of so fair a couple.  
Then were remorseless brands of fire brought to enkindle the Fuel: and juno had in readiness placed watery Iris directly over that climate to shoot forth showers: When, lo (as pleased the just pooming Deities, that at their good pleasures can preserve the virtuous from unjust persecutions, and undeserved punishments) the Lord high admiral (drawn in a costly Coach of Ebony) code by, and of the people inquired what the prisoners were: but was not resolved by any, but was told by all, they were strangers that were to die.  
His honour therefore standing on his saddle-cloth, questioned (coming near unto the stake) their names? He answered, Iacomin mine: and mine Katherine said she.  
Of what Country (replied the Admiral) are ye? Of Scicilia (said they). Of what place in Scicilia? (quoth the Admiral) Both of Palermo answered Iacomin.  
Of what Parents in Palermo are you sprung? (said he) I am the hapless son of signor jacomin Pierro, (answered the one.) And I the daughter of Don Alexander Bartolo (said the other.) Doth the King, who hath condemned ye (quoth he then hastily) know either of you?  
Neither of us, and it shall please you, (answered they) neither skills it much that our extreme fortunes and perils endured should be known to his majesty: for these flames shall end our lives, and with our wretched lives, our extreme miseries. Yet be not driven to despair (replied the Admiral) I will to the Court, and confer with the King concerning you: And then giving in charge on pain of death that they should defer a while (till they had word again from him) to kindle the fires, he caused his Coachman to yerk onward his light-hoofed gennets to the Court: where when he was arrived, and dismissed from his Coach, was come into the King's presence: after some salute, he thus with bold stomach breathed forth speeches.  
Can they (quoth he) that place Kings, pull down Kings? then look thou once again to be beaten out of Tunise: For Scicilia, once our chief aid, will become our cruelest enemy: and thou be enforced to seek a new Kingdom.  
The King having heard these cracking thunders, strooken with fear of some scorching lightnings to follow, mildly answered the Admiral with these words.  
Why, what is the cause my good Lord (said he) of these sudden threatenings? how have I given occasion to make our friends foes? or Scicilia our enemies?  
Thou seekest (replied the Admiral) to burn the flourishing branches of those fruitful stocks, which in thy greatest extremes stood as strongest supporters to hold thy feet from falling under rebels yoke. Dost thou not remember how scarce thrice seven years sithence, Seigneor jacomin Pierro, and Don Alexander Bartolo, the two egregious Uiceroyes of Scicilia (did by sending thee assistant Forces) seat thee (subduing valiantly thy insulting foes) safely in thy Kingdom? and now for requital, dost thou seem to burn the only issue of them both? for that the two faithful Lovers seek the fruition of their loves? why, the young Gentleman that is yonder (like a Traitor) at the stake, is the son of jacomin: and she, the daughter off Bartolo; both even destroyed through thy unknown ignorance.  
Oh heavens! (quoth the King, breaking off this Dréery tale ere it was ended) I would not for my Crown and Kingdom have proved so tyrannous.  
So tyrannous? (replied the Admiral) I well know not, whether they are not yet tortured and turned to ashes or no: the executioners were by thee so straightly charged, to hasten on their torments, and enkindle the fires.  
By jupiter (then enraged said he) I am then undone, utterly undone, undone for ever. Ho whose there, ho? come hither one. Gallop to the stake yonder on a Courser, that can outrun Pegasus in swift set race: and see if the prisoners there standing, do yet breath alive: what not there yet? Oh how my heart hovers for heaviness in my breast, as though it would get forth, and run thither before my posting servant? had I over-carowst myself, and overdrenched my brains with wine, as would the great golbing Alexander? that so drunkenly I condemned these strangers, inquiring neither what they were, whence they came, nor whither they would? Oh infortunate chance! Oh sinister change! By the Gods, if they survive, I will excommunicate from my breast this ill humour of lustful venery (engendered in me through wanton sloth) and will banish from my bosom all those Curtezan-like Danies: whose blandishments and ensnaring flatteries have so lively upheld my youths lewd lust: For now, and never till now, did I conceive what was true Love: with which improper title, my subtle Concubines (queanish and whorish drabs as they are) have mantled my unbridled lust. And so long, as that my behaviour hath been more brutish than the unreasonable beasts.  
I now see the vanity thereof, for hereby was I led to work this unmerciful mischief on the lives of these two constant Lovers, whose settled minds may be made subject to no exchange.  
My amendment shall be my best repentance, for now I remember that, which long since I read, Optima paenitentia, vita nova; and yet do I repent my frantic follies with hoartie grief, and by the propitious helps of the Gods, my modest living hereafter, shall wipe clean away the blemishes of my former life, so viciously and vilely led.  
By this time were the two Lovers (to the admirable applause of all the beholders) redeemed from fiery death, walking (Magna comitant caterua) with great jollity towards the Court.  
News was brought to the woeful King, that they were alive, by some of the Guard, that posted apace before the res● for that purpose. And having heard that they were near arrived, the Admiral went forth, and fairly saluted them at the Gates, conducting them unto the King▪ who kindly received them (they both imparting 〈…〉 unto his grace) with these conforming speeches.  
Fair Princes (said he) I doubt not but the Deities have determined the long lengthening of your dated days; and well may your lives endure with happiness. For by the lustres of your welwilling and wel-living, do I behold the lewdness of mine ill led life: by your virtues, my vices: by your love, my lust: by your constancies, my incontinencies.  
And joy I do with incredible gladness, that by the bright beams of (now praised be Gods) your lively looks, I am put to wit of both your royal Parents: And therefore (Princes) now freely be frolic: for we will feast away all perils forepast. And what pleasures I can wish or yourselves will, do but (in token that you forgive my intended injuries unwittingly minded against you) deign to require or request: and command, rather than demand: and I will perform it to the uttermost Ace.  
Then replied jacomin, saying: Dread Prince, our very souls abhor the sparks of unhumaine revenge: and our minds (alway debonair toward our friends) endure not to think on intended or enacted injuries.  
All the recompense that we would have, is the hope, that our agreements shall amend all amisses: and our love, exile all looseness, (as you have plighted by promise) for ever hereafter from your royal person: which will not only lift your honour (fit) unto the highest altitude: but drive all into an admiration by so lucky a change.  
Which being said, the King taking his seat, willing also the rest so to take their ease: holding jacomin by the hand (who then was placed next to his person) thus replied as followeth.  
Virtuous Sicilian, mine own motion for my amendment was much, but thy Princely words have incensed me ten times more. For proof therefore that I am perfectly moved with penitent compunction, behold what my mind will's me in your presence, and before all these my honourable Lords to have performed, though it portray mine highly deserved shame.  
Then calling forth the Keeper of his Castle, he commanded him, to bring before him, all these impudent dames, whose dishonesties had so mightily disgraced his honours and dignities.  
And whilst the Keeper went to accomplish his highness pleasure, he thus progressed in his speech.  
My Castle, where you, most chaste and modest Katherine (said he, turning toward the place where she sat) were enclosed, contains in hold a hundred lavish and licentious Dames, whose wanton dispositions, have (like pitch) defiled the glory of my youth. These will I banish far from my Court, willing them to recall themselves: for (they say commonly) take away the cause, and the effect will die. I have heard that Israel's King, who before in the name of jehova his God, slew with a stone (which he sent from a sling) the huge Giant Goliath, consenting afterward to wanton sin (that assaulted him whilst in a Gallery he subjecteth him to idle sloth) wrought the murder of one of his dearest Lords: thereby enkindling against him, both the wrath of his God, and incurring dishonour unto his name. The like had I (vile wretch) offensively against you almost committed: but that some good Angel guided our Admiral, to withstand such a mischief. Sith therefore so viciously to follow wantonness, is vilely to be a bond slave to all villainies: to shun the deadly servitude of the one, I will undo the devilish instigation of the other.  
And with that entered the virgins into place: wherefore he commanded his Treasurer, to bestow on them severally an hundred marks: and so to convey them from the Court, to lead the remnant of their lives in their native homes.  
Whose liberality bestowed towards them for their maintenance, was by all there present much commended. And then the King to drive away melancholy from all (that seemed to marvel at the looks of his half-discontent darlings, and choice minions) caused Tables and dice to be brought forth, to breed disport: and Cards in packs to be thrown on board, to pass away the time, till the Cook and Cator were provided to serve in dinner. Himself at the Chessboard stood as a Challenger; and young jacomin to show himself a champion, undertook the combat at that witty weapon: alway with caution (after he had to try, entered the lists) keeping him free from annoying check. And when their gaming was ended, they feasted, and were frolic.  
After this manner past these nobles the time together, for the space of some three or four days: in which time, the king had provided a gallant Fleet to guide these Scicilians safely home to Palermo. And the Admiral made him ready to bear them company in that conduct.  
Now hath our Lodestar (Gentlemen) past Aquarius, and paceth like Athlantas' Coursers, towards the exaltation of Pisces: whose scales showing and shining bright and clear, gave him liberty now at last freely to prognosticate happy success. And therefore with the prosperous running of this wandering Stars race, am I in brief to shut up the Catostrophe of all the Scenes.  
Our young Scicilians, giving the Tunisian King abundant thanks for their gracious entertainments; with the Lord Admiral, departed from Tunise; and manned with a fair Fleet, shipped themselves, and crossed the Seas; cutting through the Ocean, till peaceably they attained the Port of Palermo.  
Fame resounding through common ears report of their safe arrival, moved the dissentious Peers, Pierro and Battolo, with several joys, and yet could they not mitigate their rancord envies, nor assuage their minds, from seeking mutual revenge: in so much that they scarce deigned to bid welcome their own children.  
Which being noised in the ears of Don Andrea Alizandra (then dwelling in the country) in regard of his countries weal, and Scicilians welfare, with all convenient speed repaired to Palermo; and informing the Tunisian Admiral how disorderly every thing stood in haphazard; caused him by sound of Trumpet to summon the Citizens to the Parliament house. Whereupon the Aldermen and Elders presented themselves peaceably before the Admiral and Alizandra. Whilst they were employed there in consultation, came Pierro with his troop: and a little after, Bartolo with a great train. Who then at each other most wilfully shoot darts of sharp revilings, and with bitter railings, make repetitions of their wrongs mutually sustained by other: not content to rest satisfied till they were revenged; so that had they not by policy been prevented, there would have been wrought a bloody massacre on both parties. But the Admiral and Alizandra causing silence, 'mongst all the assembly to be proclaimed by sound of Trumpet, on pain of death, to every common man; and present imprisonment to every noble man: whilst they were all silent, the wise Admiral thus used his Oration.  
I● it possible (ye Scicilians) that men should be so possessed with brutish rancour, as that their minds may be directed by no regard of humane reason? May not the daily shedding of blood, the murdering of the Commons, the damages of your native country, continually proffered, procure your hearts to agreements, and persuade your thoughts from hammering on furious revenge? Shall the suckling wail, the child weep, the innocent lament, the maiden moan, and the oppressed widow mourn, to behold these deadly dissentious? Nay, shall the murdered Ghosts, of those, that by these intestine hurly-burlies have traitorously been brought to untimely deaths, with outcries provoke the dooming heavens, to power down plaguy vengeance on your seditious heads? Behold, the Gods in mercy have wrought miraculous means to unite your dissentious Families again together, and to settle them in one concordant sympathy. See your honourable issues, (even driven through your discords into deadly despair to have any happy day, for condeigning of their loves) are beyond hope safely returned home to amend your tyrannous lives. May not you joy at the virtuous amity of your children (whose indissoluble league is concluded both by the powers of heaven and earth) and abashed with shame, blush at your brutishness? Hath Tunise King, your friendly well-wisher; and I, your present well-willer, manned them hither with a gallant navy, to have this welcome? What shall we say, but as it is bruited of you in other countries? that your two peace-fréezing heads, seem to enforce the quiet of all the members of Scicilia, through cold choler to congeal? Is it not dishonour to hold such discord? is it not reproach to be accounted so rash? is it not infamous, without sufficient cause to persist so envious? then for shame change your outrageous angers, and entertain cheerfully these courageous Lovers: I mean not one without the other, (for they both are one) but both in one, and one in both. Then shall your ruinous estate be corroborated, your honours standing (in hazard) remain fortified; and your countries commodities decaying, abundantly multiplied.  
As he would have said farther, the whole multitude gave loud shouts, and admirable shrill applaudities: wherewith the minds of these powerful Peers on both sides were so moved, that forgiving and forgetting all evils forepast, reconciled themselves with mutual embracings, and welcomed both their children, and the worthy Admiral with hearty gratulation: to their no small joys, and general contentments of the whole Commons: that for seven days space they continually rung bells, and made bonfires, whilst the Nobles of the Land, banqueted and made holy day: with jacomin and Katherine, celebrating a universal festival over the whole Realm: that now seemed to compare this their peace (as the Oracles had foretold) so happily again renewed, to the ancient Aureo seculo.  
FINIS.   

THus (courteous Gentles) hath our Lodestar run his appointed race: and following their order, who treading cunningly an artificial Maze, after divers intricate turnings and by-paths, make their regress where first they had their progress: is come near again unto Aries: as having directly attained the very point of that Horizon, where at first it took original in the Springtide. In the Spring therefore of their pleasures (all winterly storms of perils being passed) will I leave constant jacomin and Katherine: wishing all true and loyal Loners, like lively joys. If you like well the course of this Lodestar, I will with your favour presume to promise surely, to present you shortly with the Poem of Virginities Verdure. But in the mean while, to lighten your expectations, I could wish you, to look on Lust's Lost Liberty, performed by proud tyrannous Tarquin (a lusty lad, that of late I have trained to the Stage) shedding blood both by politic means, and public massacres. And when you have been sufficiently satisfied, I hope (non invita Minerva) to invite you unto some modest moral Banquet. Farewell.  Voluisse, sat sit. 
FINIS.