THE MOST Pleasant and delectable History of Lazarillo de Tormes, a Spaniard: AND OF HIS MARVELLOUS Fortunes and Adversities.  
The second part.  
Translated out of Spanish into English, By W. P.  
LABOUR ET CONSTANTIA  
Printed at London by T. C. for john Oxenbridge, dwelling in Paul's Churchyard at the sign of the Parrot. 159●.   

To my very good friend, Master jonas Tyrrel of Burstow, all happiness be wished.  
ALthough good will and perfect friendship is not to be requited nor sought with money, yet such is the excellency thereof, that it is oftentimes requited with some ingratitude, wherewith the virtue is much more beautified, as it was with the good and wise King Don Alonso of Spain: who being given to understand, that one unto whom he had done great good by preferring him to honour, besides many liberal gifts, was very unthankful for the same; he answered in a mild manner, that a great good turn is never requited without some ingratitude, even so I may compare you in this happiness unto him, and in unhappiness myself unto the other: who for much good, have returned but ill; wherefore I am the bolder, being acquainted so well with your good disposition, to show myself thankful, being well assured that you cannot think of my service evil, seeing, (as I have said) you have always done well, being delivered unto me by a Gentleman of mine acquaintance, a small Spanish Pamphlet, by him new done into English, entitled Lazarillo de Tormes, a Spaniard, discoursing the many hard fortunes & adversities he sustained in the Sea, being transformed into a Tuni Fish; though but a toy, yet I assure you passing pleasant and delectable; which I have adventured to dedicate unto you: Only craving you will accept it as friendly, as I present it willingly, and then I have my only request. And so resting in hope of your favourable acceptance, I commit you to the Almighty, and this poor Lazarillo, to the friendly Readers censure.  
Your loving friend who wisheth you all hearts ease. I. O.   

How Lazarillo de Tormes, at the importunate requests of his friends, Embarked himself, to go in the Voyage with the King of Spain, made unto Argel, and what happened unto him in the same.  

YOur worship must understand, that the unfortunate Lazaro de Tormes, being in this pleasant life, exercising his office, and getting his meat and drink, (for that God made no such office, and which is much better than the best four and twenty other offices in Toledo,) and withal, both I and my wife being well paid, and contented with our new daughter, daily increasing our household stuff, I for my part being well used, and having two suits of apparel, one for every day, and the other for the holy days, and my wife as much, with 24. Roialls of Plate in my purse, I came unto this Town, whither I should not have come, where at my arrival, I understood the news (as other men do) of the voyage unto Argel. Whereunto divers of my neighbours began to hearken, saying one to the other, let us go thither, for by that voyage we may come home laden with gold and silver: so that they began to put me into such a covetous humour, that I imparted the same unto my wife, whereunto she, being desirous to return back again unto the priest, answered me saying, do as you think good, but if you go, and that it pleaseth God to send you good fortune, I pray you bring me a Moor for my slave, to serve me all my life, and it shall suffice me, as also I pray you remember to bring some what to marry this your little daughter, whereunto the Barbery Ducats, wherewith (they say) those Dogs the Moors are so well stored will not be amiss. With the which answer, together with the covetous desire I had, I determined (which I should not have done,) to go on this voyage: From the which my master the Priest dissuaded me very much, but I would not believe him. To conclude, I having many miseries more to pass, than in former times I had passed, I agreed with a Knight of the order of Saint john, with whom I was well acquainted, to bear him company, and to serve him in the voyage, and that he should bear my charges, with such condition, that whatsoever I could get it should be for myself. And so there were divers that got, but it was unto me a great and an unfortunate misery, which although divers men felt, yet I dare assure you I had sufficient for my part. This Knight and I (with divers others departed out of this Town, in great jollity and much bravery, as in all voyages is commonly seen, but to avoid tediousness, I will make no rehearsal of that which happened unto us in our journey by land, for that it is nothing unto the purpose, but we were no sooner embarked at Carthagena, in a good ship full of men, and victuals sufficient, and in company of other ships, but there arose in the sea the most horrible and cruelest tempest that ever your worship heard of, whereby there happened the greatest wrack and destruction of men, that had been seen or known upon the seas long time before: and in this storm the worst was, that the waves of the sea did us not so much harm, as our own ships did, one unto the other, because the tempest being by night, and the cruel waves rising so high, and so big, there was not any of us, that could see to devise any remedy for our safety, but that whether we would or not, the ships struck one against the other, in such sort, that with the blows they forcibly broke and drowned in the sea, with all the passengers. But for that your worship hath (as I said) been informed at large of that which was happened in that tempest, by such as beheld it and were in the same, and (as God would escaped,) as also by others that have heard the same delivered from their mouths, it shall be needless for me to touch any point thereof, more than of that whereof I myself am able to inform you, as being only he that saw it, and (which of all the rest that were with us,) saw it best: Wherein God showed his great mercy unto me, as your worship shall hear by the sequel.  
I speak neither of he Moor, nor yet of the Moor, for the devil take them all for any that ever I saw, in that voyage: but I beheld our ship broken in many pieces, I saw the like done by others, I perceived neither mast nor yard in her, all the decks broken up, and the upper part clean carried away, at which sight the Captains and Officers men of quality entered into the boat, seeking to bestow themselves in other ships, although at that time there were very few among us that could help them; and left the mean and base sort of us within the ship, for that the common saying is, It is better to lose the worst then the best. We seeing that, committed our souls unto God, and began to confess ourselves one unto the other, because the two Clerks that were in our ship, naming themselves (as they say) soldiers of jesus Christ, went with the Captains, and left us as base companions unto the mercy of the seas. But I for my part never heard so wonderful a confession, as the poor men made being ready to die, and I am assured that there was not one among us at that present that was not half dead, and divers, which at every wave of the sea that entered into the broken ship, felt in a manner present death, in such sort as it might be said (if it were possible) that they were one hundredth tons, and to say the truth, their confessions were of bodies in a manner without souls. Among divers of them which I confessed, there were some that uttered not one word out of their mouths, but only sighs, and sobs, (a thing common unto men troubled and in adversity,) and as much did I unto them: In the end we being in a manner drowned in our weak ship, and wholly out of all hope of any remedy or aid to be looked for, I began to lament my death, and to repent me of my sins, (but much more of my coming thither) and having recited certain devout Orazons, which I learned in my youth of my first master, fit to be said at such a time, with the fear and horror of death I fell into a most horrible and deadly thirst, and considering with myself that it would soon be quenched with the salt and unsavoury water of the sea, it seemed unto me a point of great inhumanity to use small charity unto myself, wherewith I determined, that it were good for me before that evil water entered into my body, to fill it first with most excellent wine, whereof at that present there was great store in the ship: which at that time was as well without a master, as I without a soul, so that with great desire and much more haste, I began to drink, and with the great thirst and the fear of death wherewith I was oppressed, together with the extremity thereof, (withal, I being no scholar but rather a master in that Art,) and the great folly I conceived at that present, because I perceived not any one desirous to bear me company, I stood to my tackling so earnestly, and drunk in such manner, and so much, sometimes resting myself, and then beginning again, that from the head to the foot, I felt not any part of my sorrowful body, but was all filled with wine, which I had no sooner done, but the ship broke in pieces, and we all drowned in the sea, as for my part, I was nothing else but wine: when the ship sunk it was about two hours after day appearing, at which sight, by reason of that wine that wrought in my head, feeling myself wholly under the water, and perceiving not any means of help, nor knowing what to do, I laid hand on my sword, which then I had at my side, and therewith I began to sink downward into the sea. At which time I might perceive great quantity of fishes both great and little, and of divers kinds to draw near unto us, and very nimbly with their teeth assailed my dead companions, soon tearing and renting their bodies in pieces: which I beholding, was in great fear they would do the like to me, if I should stand upon terms with them. Wherewith I left shaking of mine arms, as those which were drowned in sinking did, thinking thereby to escape death: but for I could not by any means swim, I sank downwards into the Sea, and so laboured my heavy body, that I outwent that wicked company and great multitude of fishes that (at the crack which the ship gave in breaking) came thither. And in this manner I descending downward into the deep sea, I perceived coming behind me a great and mighty Army of other Fishes, and (as I think) they came with great desire to learn some news of me, and with great haste approached near me, that with their teeth they might tear me in pieces, and so eat me up: but I perceiving myself so compassed about with death, with the rage and fear whereof, not knowing how to escape, I began to skirmish and flourish about me with my sword, which I held naked in my right hand, for that as yet I had not let it fall, and I played my part therewith so well, that in short space I made such a riddance of them, laying about me both on the right side & the left, that in the end they concluded among themselves to recoil back, and for a time to leave me in peace: and letting me rest, began to busy themselves about the dead bodies of their companions, that I in defending of myself had slain, (which they presently eat up and devoured): and surely I did it with little labour, by reason those Fishes having small means of defence, and their arms much weaker, it lay in me to kill and destroy as many of them as I would. In the end, a good space after I had left them, descending and sinking still into the sea, and that so strait and directly downward, as if my feet being fixed upon some certain thing, my body had stood upright. In the end I chanced upon a great rock, which stood in the midst of the deep sea: and as I felt my feet upon the same, I stayed myself for a time, and began to rest after my great trouble and labour sustained: which until then, by reason of the alteration that I found in myself, and fear of death withal, I had no time to think upon. And as it is a common thing unto all those which are afflicted and wearied to sigh, being ready to fetch a great sigh, which cost me full dear: negligently opening my mouth, (which notwithstanding I shut presently again) the wine having by that means gotten some vent, it being at the least more than three hours after I drunk the same, at the issuing forth made place for the salt and unsavoury Water of the Sea, which as then entered into me, causing great pain and torment in my body, striving with her contrary as then within me. Then I perceived and saw the wine was the only means that my life had so long been preserved in the sea, by reason that my body even to the very throat being filled with the same, the Water of the Sea had no power nor place to enter in. And then likewise I knew the Prophecy to be true that my master told me of touching the same, saying unto me in Escalona, that if Wine could ever preserve the life of man, it should surely preserve mine. Then it grieved me to think upon my dead companions in the sea, because they bore me not company in drinking: which if they had done, they surely had been living as well as I, and their company would have ministered some comfort unto me. I did likewise in myself lament the miserable case of all such as then were drowned with us, and began to think with myself, that peradventure although they had drunk as I did, they would not all have been so wilful and obstinate as myself, because they were not all Lazaroes' de Tormes, who learned the Art at that notable school of the Taverns and Cellars of Toleda, in the company of my masters the Dutchmen. In this manner calling to memory these and many other things, I perceived a great quantity of Fishes to approach unto the place where I was, some rising from the bottom of the Sea, others descending downward, and all of them joining together, besieged me round about where I sat. I saw and knew very well that they came with an evil intent and meaning: wherewith, having more fear than will, I began to rise, and with much pain stood upon my feet, thinking to defend myself against them: but all in vain, being at that instant in a manner spoiled and stiff with cold, by means of the evil water which had entered into my body, whereof I was so sick, that I could not by any means sustain myself, nor yet once lift up my sword for to defend me. And as I perceived myself to approach so near unto my death, I looked if I could find any remedy against that misery, and to seek it in my sword there was no long hope, for the reasons before alleged. Wherefore going upon the Rock as well as I could, as GOD would I found a little hole wherein I entered, and being within, I perceived it to be a Cave made into the Rock: and although the entry were but straight and narrow, yet was there space enough within to turn and wind myself, and use my weapons at pleasure: whereinto there was no other entry but that only which I had luckily found out.  
It seemed the Lord himself had sent me thither, for by that only means I recovered again some part of my former strength, which before I had almost utterly lost. Wherewith taking again to myself fresh courage, and reviving my drooping spirits, I turned my face towards my enemies, placing the point of my sword at the entry of the Cave, and so began with most fierce Stoccadoes to defend my Fort.  
By that time the whole multitude of fishes had besieged me round about, giving most great flashes and assaults against me in the water, and approaching very near unto the mouth of the cave: but such as seemed to be most hardy, presuming to eat in, I think escaped not scot free. For as I stood directly with my sword against the entry of the cave, they thinking to enter, fell upon my sword, and so lost their lives: and others which with great fury approached near unto me, got their reward with blows. All this notwithstanding, made them not break up their siege: but in the mean time it waxed dark, and night approaching, made the fight somewhat to cease, although they left not off many times to assail me, proving whether I slept, or if by any means they might perceive me to be wearied and weak. This thus continuing, poor Lazarus being in this great extremity, perceiving myself assieged by so many enemies, in so strange a place, without all remedy or hope of relief: and considering, that my good conseruator (I mean the wine) began by little and little to consume within me, in place whereof the salt water entered, and that each hour I began to wax weak, because it was not possible for me to sustain myself, my nature being altogether contrary unto theirs, that remained and dwelled in the water: and that likewise my strength failed me, by reason that of a long time I had not eaten any thing wherewith to strengthen the same, but to the contrary, laboured and traveled my weary body, as also, because the water doth digest and consume very much: I still looked for no other thing, than when my sword would fall out of my weak & trembling hands, which should no sooner be perceived by my enemies, but they would put me to a most cruel and bitter death, making their bodies my sepulchre. All which by me well weighed and considered, and on the contrary, not finding any remedy or means of relief, I turned unto him to whom all good Christians have recourse, recommending myself unto him that giveth aid and relief to all such as crave it at his hands: that was, the most merciful God our Lord jesus Christ. Then I began afresh to sigh, lamenting and bewailing my former sins, ask mercy and forgiveness for them, and committing myself unto his divine will and pleasure, I besought him to deliver me from that cruel death: with promise, that if it pleased him to give me life, I would become a new man ever after. Then I made my prayers unto the most glorious Saint Marry, his Mother and our Lady, promising to visit her in her houses of Monferrat, of Guadalupe, and on the borders of France. After that, directing my supplications unto all the Saints, but specially unto S. Eli●●us, and unto Monsieur S Amador, which both have power over the waters. This done, I rehearsed certain orisons, as many as I could remember (learned of my master) which with most great devotion I uttered, besides divers other prayers, which have force and power against the perils of the water. Which done, in the end the Lord jesus, by the virtue of his passion, and by the force of the Saints prayers, and for the pity of my great misery, which as then appeared before mine eyes, wrought in me a most marvelous and rare miracle, although in respect of his mighty power it seemed nothing: which was, that I being thus in manner without a soul, sick, and half choked with the great quantity of water, which (as I said before) had entered into my body, to my no little damage, and likewise being stiff, and as it were dead with cold, that still assailed me: which, as long as my preserver the wine remained in his force, I never once did feel. My sorrowful body being wearied, and as it were broken in pieces, by means of the anguish and continual persecution thereof, together with the discontinuance of eating meat, I suddenly felt myself to be changed from the shape of a man (which I had been, not feeling either hand or foot) unto the very shape and form of those which had and did at that present besiege me round about. Whose shape when I perceived myself to be changed into, I presently knew them to be fishes called a Tonnie, and then I understood how they sought my death, saying, This is the traitor, and the enemy of our savoury and most sacred waters: this is the adversary, not only of us, but also of all other Fishes, which at this present hath made such an execution and slaughter among us, killing and murdering so great multitudes of our nation: it is not possible for him to escape from hence, but day once appearing we will be revenged on him. Thus I heard the judgement, which my masters the fishes pronounced against me, being a Tonny as well as they. In this manner being changed, I rested and refreshed myself in the Water, taking my breath, and finding myself as clearly without pain or grief, as if I never had any, washing my body both within and without with that water, which then and from that time forward I found to be very sweet and savoury, viewing and beholding myself, if I could perceive any part of my body that was not changed into a Tonnie: and so, remaining in the cave in great ease and pleasure, I thought with myself, that it would be good for me as soon as day came to get me out from thence: but then I feared they would know me, and so my conversion should be manifest unto them. On the other side, I feared my issuing forth, distrusting in myself, that they could not understand me, and that I could not be able to answer them unto that which they should ask me, by which means my secret might be discovered. For although I understood them very well, and that I perceived myself to be of their form and shape, yet I greatly feared to be among them. In the end, I determined the best way for me was, that they should not find me within the cave: for they finding me not to be of their company, and Lazarus de Tormes not being found, they will strait judge me to have saved him, and so will demand an account of him at my hands. For the which cause it seemed best unto me, that I going out of the cave before it were day, and thrusting myself among them, being so great a number, peradventure they would not see me, neither yet once find me to be a stranger: and as I determined with myself, so I put it in effect.   

CHAP. II. How Lazarus de Tormes called a Tonny fish, went out of the cave, and how the Sentinels of the Tonny fishes took him, and lead him before the General of the Army.  
IN skipping out of the cave and leaving the rock, I was presently desirous to prove my new language, and began with a loud voice to say, I die, I die. Those words scarce uttered by me, the Sentinel which held the watch over the poor sinner Lazaro de Tormes, came unto me, & standing about me, asked me whom I served. Sirs, said I, I serve the Fishes, and those which are called the valiant Tonnyes. Then said they, for what cause didst thou cry out so loud? what is it that thou hast seen or felt in our adversary, whereby thou art so altered and perplexed, that thou knowest not under what Captain thou servest? I said they should bring me before the General of the Army, and there they should know that which they demanded. Presently thereupon one of the Tonnyes willed ten of the rest to bring me unto the General: mean while he stayed behind keeping the watch, with the number of ten thousand Tonnyes at the least. I was exceeding glad to perceive that they did understand me, and said unto myself, He that showed me this great grace, maketh no man lame.  
Thus we marched, and at last as day began to appear we approached near unto the place where the great Army lay, whereas I perceived such an innumerable number of Tonnyes, that I was abashed at the sight. As soon as they knew those which led me, they suffered us to pass forward: and being entered into the generals lodging, one of my guard making humble reverence, declared unto him, where and in what manner they had found me, & that I being asked by Captain Licio what I was, I answered him, that they should bring me before the General: and for that cause they said they had brought me unto his Honour. The Captain general was an excellent Tonnie, fiercer and greater in body than the rest: he asked me, who I was, what was my name, under what captain I served, & what I would have, seeing I desired to be brought before him? Whereat I stood in a manner confused, not knowing what name to say I had, although I had been rightly baptised, unless I should say my name was Lazaro the Tormes: neither could I better tell from whence I was, nor under what Captain I served, by reason I was but newly transformed, nor knew not the seas, neither yet the large territories, and the particular names of the same: in such sort, that letting pass some of the questions by the General propounded unto me, I answered him thus. My Lord, your honour being so valiant, as it is well known throughout the seas, it seemeth a great disgrace unto your Honour and us all, that one miserable weak man should defend himself so long 'gainst so puissant and mighty an Army: and the more, considering his weak estate and ability, and the great power of the Tonnies. Saying further, seeing that I am one of your honours subjects, and at your commandment, and of your Army, I here present myself, with promise to get and deliver unto you his Arms, and other things that he hath: which if I do not, I desire for my reward that you command me presently to be cruelly executed as a traitor. Yet whatsoever I said, I was sure I made him no promise to deliver Lazaro de Tormes unto him, left I should bring a fool to bed. This point proceeded not of mine own mother wit, but I learned it of my master at school. Whereat the General took great pleasure to see me offer myself unto such a piece of service: by which means he desired not any farther matter of me, but presently making me answer said. It is very true that to avoid the death of my soldiers, I determined to hold a siege about that traitor, and to take the man: but if (as thou sayst) thou dost adventure thyself to enter the cave, thou shalt be well rewarded for thy labour: although it would grieve me much, that venturing thy person in the King's service and mine, thou shouldst lose thy life, as others have done before thee: because I esteem much, and make great account of my valiant and stout Tonnyes, and such as are more hardy than the rest, I desire to preserve them before others, as all good Captains ought to do. My Lord, said I, let not your excellency stand in fear of any danger that may happen unto me, for I hope to bring the matter to effect without the loss of one drop of my blood. Seeing it is so said he, it is surely a great piece of service, for the which I mean to recompense thee well: and for that it is day already, I am desirous to see how thou wilt accomplish that which thou hast promised. Thereupon he presently sent unto all the Officers of the Field, that they should march forwards unto the place where the enemy lay. It was a wonderful thing to see so great and mighty a camp to remove, and I suppose, that whosoever had seen them, would have been abashed. The General caused me to go on the one side by himself, by the way ask me what order I meant to hold in the entering of the cave. I told him counterfeiting and feigning many stratagems and devices. Mean time we approached near unto the place where the Sentinels stood about the Rock, and to Captain Licio, that had sent me unto the General: who at that time was in very good order about the rock, holding each place about the cave straightly besieged. And yet all this notwithstanding, not one of them durst once be so hardy as to approach near unto the entry of the same, by reason that the General had sent special commandment to the contrary, thereby to avoid the damage that Lazarus did unto them: because that at such time as I was converted into a Tonny fish, I let the sword stand upright in the entry of the Cave, and in such manner as I held it in my hands when I was a man, which the Tonnyes saw, fearing that their enemy held it in his hands, and that he stood right before the entry of the cave. As we approached near unto the place, I said unto the General, it were good he should command those that held sentinel and siege about the cave to departed, and that he with all the rest should withdraw themselves from thence; which was presently done. I did that, because they should not perceive the little labour I had to enter into the cave. Then I (being alone) gave great and lively flashes in the water, and skipping up unto the mouth of the cave, I made a show of some great thing I meant to do: mean time that I did this, the report went among them, that I had begun to enter into the cave, but said they, he will be slain as well as others (altogether as hardy and bold as he) have been: let him alone, for assure yourselves, you shall see his lustiness well cooled in the end. In the mean time I made show as though some resistance had been made against me out of the cave, & that the enemy thrust at me, as he had done at others, whereat I made as though I skipped with my body from the one side to the other. And as the Army stood in this amaze, they had not the wits to perceive that which in truth was not to be perceived: sometime I approached unto the cave, and assailed it with most great force, making as though I fought, and then again I retired as I did before: which I did only to make a show of great matter, where none was. After I had done this three or four times, standing somewhat distant from the cave, I began to roar with a loud voice, to that end the General and the whole Army might hear me, saying: O miserable man, thinkest thou that thou canst defend thyself against the great power of our puissant Lord and and King, and against his valiant Captain general, with those of his mighty Army? Thinkest thou to escape from hence, without being punished for thy great boldness, and the great murders, which by thy means have been done upon our friends and companions? Yield, yield thyself (I say) a prisoner unto the valiant and great General, and it may be he will be merciful unto thee. Yield thine Arms, which have so well served thee at this present, and come forth of thy strong Hold wherein thou art, for it will little avail thee to tarry there, and put thyself into his power, with whom for power none within the whole compass of the seas may once compare. I, (as I say) giving these great and threatening speeches unto poor Lazarus, & all to fill the ears of the hearers thereby to encourage them, as men are accustomed to do, being a thing wherein they take much pleasure: a Tonny came unto me from the General, willing me to come presently unto him: with whom I went, and at my approaching, I found both him and all the rest almost dead with laughter, and such was the noise that they made, that one could not hear the other by means thereof: but as I appeared before him, being much amazed at such an alteration, the General commanded that each man should be quiet: whereat some silence was made, although the most part of them began again to laugh, till at the last, with much pain, the General said unto me: Companion, if thou holdest no other method in entering the Fort of our Enemy, than that thou hast already shown, neither shalt thou accomplish thy promise, nor I be any thing the wiser in standing to trust upon thee: which maketh me the more to suspect it, in that I have only seen thee to assail the entry of the Cave, and yet thou didst not enter: and more, that thou beginnest to persuade our adversary by speech, which every one can do as well as thou. So that as far as I and these the rest of my Campanie can perceive, thou wouldst be very glad to be well rid of so dangerous an action. Whereby it seemeth most apparent and evident unto us, that all this time is but lost, and these words spent vainly to the wind, because I am certain by this means thou canst not in a thousand years accomplish that which thou desirest, or hast said that thou couldst do: and for this cause we laughed at thee, and surely our laughter is not without just cause, to see thee stand prating unto him, as if thou wert some jolly fellow: and then they all began again to laugh at me. With this I found mine own want, and said within myself, If God had not preserved me to some other end than to feed those fools, the unaccustomed manner of behaviour that I used as a Tonnie, would have been cause of my decay: which was specially by reason that I had only their form and not their nature. But I seeking to amend mine error, answered: My Lord, when any man is desirous to effectuate that which he hath in mind to do, it happeneth unto him as it doth unto me. Whereat the General and all the rest began again to laugh, saying, Alas poor man thou art deceived, for thou shouldest have answered unto me (as it is true) that thou fearest, that in stead of renting his clothes, he will tear thy body. With that he left off speaking for that time. Wherewith I seeing that still my want of behaviour appeared, and perceiving that with a few more of such checks I might soon be mated, I began also to laugh with them for company, but God knows I grinned with no small fear, which at that time I had: and therewith I said unto the General, My Lord, it may please you not to think that my fear is such as some of you do presume, because that having to do with a man, you think that the tongue uttereth that which the heart meaneth: but it seemeth unto me, that I stay over long to accomplish my promise, and to take vengeance in your behalf of this our enemy, wherefore with your Honour's licence I would willingly crave that I might return to make an end of my enterprise. Thou hast thy request said he. Then I with no little shame and fear returned towards the cave, thinking thereafter (as it touched me near) to be wiser and circumspecter in my speech. And approaching unto the Cave, I made as though I had been stricken, and feigning to retire, I skipped suddenly unto the entry of the hole, and took that with my mouth, which at other times I used to do with my hands: which done, I studied, thinking with myself, whether it were best for me to enter into the Cave, or to go and deliver the Sword unto the General, to whom I had promised the same. In the end I considered, that if I should go in, I might peradventure be accused of theft, saying, that I had eaten him, seeing he was not there to be found, which had been a thing worthy of punishment. At the last I turned myself unto the Army, the which I prayed to help me, because they had seen me recover the sword, and yet to show more courage, having gotten it upon the rock, then when I took it at the mouth of the Cave, I skirmished with the same, wreathing & turning my mouth, looking on all sides both backward and forward, and coming unto the General, with humble salutation, holding the sword as well as I could, (by the hilts) in my mouth, I said; Valiant Captain, Behold here the Arms of our cruel enemy, from this time forth there is no cause of fear, why we should not enter into the Cave, seeing he hath not any thing wherewith to defend the same. You have (said he) done like a valiant Tonny, and assure yourself you shall be well rewarded for so great a piece of service, and for because with so great valour and hardiness, you have gotten the sword, and that it seemeth unto me, you can better skill of it then the rest of us, I pray you hold it still until we have gotten this unhappy and wicked traitor into our hands. With that an infinite number of the Tonnies went unto the mouth of the Cave, but yet not one of them durst be so bold to enter into the same, because they feared that he was not without a poniard, than I proffered myself to be the first that would venture for to enter, so that some of them would follow and assist me: and this I desired, only because I meant to have witnesses of my innocency, but such was the fear which they had of Lazarus, that not one of them sought to follow me, although the General promised great gifts unto him that should second me. The thing standing in this point, the General asked me, what I thought best to be done therein, seeing not one of them was desirous to bear me company in that dangerous entrance. I answered, that for his service I would venture to enter therein myself alone, so they would assure me the entry, and that they should not fear to stand by me. He said it should be so, and if so be that those which were there durst not do it, he promised to follow me himself. In the mean time Capiaine Licio came unto us, and said that he would enter in with me: wherewith I began to skirmish on all sides of the cave with my sword, and to give divers fierce pricks with the same, and at the last skipped in, crying with a loud voice, Victoria, Victoria, God save the the great sea, with her great and puissant inhabitants of the same, and confound those which dwell upon the Land. With these cries (although but full evil favouredly uttered) Captain Licio (of whom I spoke before) entered after me, who at that day won much renown, and recovered with me much credit, in showing himself so hardy and valiant above the rest: yet it seemed unto me, that one witness was not sufficient to discharge me, and therefore not leaving the entry of the cave, I desired more help: but all in vain was my request, for the devil take them all, not one of them durst once venture to enter. And surely they were not greatly to be blamed therein, for I assure ye in my conscience that I myself should have done as much, if I had thought the thing to be as they took it, (for what should a man do but speak the truth): but for me, I entered therein, as into mine own house, knowing very well before, that there was not so much as a snail within the same. Then I began to animate them thereunto, saying, O mighty, great and valiant Tonnyes, show forth this day your force and accustomed boldness, seeing that such an occasion is offered, whereby you may win honour and renown. Are you not ashamed to show so little courage? Know ye not that your Enemies will from henceforth esteem but little of ye, when they shall see and understand your small courage? With these and other things spoken unto them by me, the General himself (although with more shame than otherwise) entered in, crying, Peace, peace: by which words I understood very well, that he brought not all in with him, seeing that in time of so great wars, he proclaimed peace. As soon as he was entered, he willed the rest to enter, which I think entered full evil against their wills: but when they perceived not poor Lazarus, nor yet any defence against them, although I gave great blows and thrusts against the sides of the cave with my sword, they were all amazed. And the General was ashamed of the small company that approached to help me and Captain Licio,   

CHAP. III. How after that Lazarus with all the Tonnyes had entered in the cave, and finding nothing therein but Lazrroes' clothes, there entered so many, that they thought to be smothered therein: and what remedy Lazarus devised for the same.  
SEarch having been made round about the Cave, we found the apparel of the valiant Tonny Lazarus de Tormes, for they were left behind me when I was turned into a fish: yet when I saw them I was in no small fear, doubting lest my poor body had been still within them, and that the foul only had been turned into a Tonny: but as God would I found not myself there, and then I knew assuredly, that both in body and soul I was turned into a fish. Yet I was not well in my mind, because nevertheless I felt no small pain, and it grieved me in my very flesh, to see those garments that had fitted my body so well being a man, to be so injuriously torn and plucked in pieces by those which did it with so good a will, and yet I was constrained to do the like myself, because I would not seem to vary from those of my company, thereby offering occasion to be perceived. At this fight the General and the rest being astonished, and looking round about very circumspectly, yet not without fear, although they desired to meet with that which they found, after that they had well searched and compassed the little Cave, the Captain General spoke, ask me what I thought as touching the not finding of our adversary there. My Lord said I, without doubt, I think verily this was no man, but rather some devil, which took the shape of a man upon him, for our destruction and damage; for that who ever saw, or heard it reported, that the body of a man could sustain itself so long time under the water, or yet could do as this man hath done, and in the end holding him enclosed in such a place as this is, and standing so near as we did, he to have escaped in the sight of us all. I having said my opinion, and being ready to make an end thereof, there happened a greater danger unto us, which was, that as the Tonnies that were without, began to enter into the Cave, they came in so fast, perceiving themselves to be delivered of their enemy, and to get part of the spoil, as also to be revenged of the murders, he had committed upon their companions and friends, that when we looked about us, the Cave was so full, that from the very bottom unto the top, men could scarce find any space within the same, but that all was full of Tonnies, and so heaped one upon the other, that we were almost all smothered to death: for as I said before, there was no end of their entering in, until such time as the General began to devise how he might remedy the matter, in such sort, that he perceiving the necessity of the case, and the great peril wherein we stood, said unto me, My stout and valiant companion, what means shall we find for to get out from hence with our lives, seeing as thou seest the danger beginneth more and more to increase, and yet we are all in a manner smothered to death? My Lord said I, the best remedy will be, if these which are here before us could give us place, that I might get unto the entry of the Cave, and defend it with my sword that no more might enter in, these that are in might go forth, and we likewise with them, all without danger. But that is impossible, because there are so many Tonnies upon us, and you shall see, that all this notwithstanding, they cannot let, but that still there will more enter in, because that he which is without, thinketh that those that are here within, are dividing the spoils, and desire their part thereof, so that there is but one only remedy to help us: which is, if for to escape, your honour think it good that some of these that are within should die, because that to make room for your honour it cannot be done without hurt unto the rest: seeing it is so (said he) it is good to save the best and lose the worst, that all the rest may rejoice. Seeing that you (said I) doth command it as having authority, it may please your honour to discharge me in this action from all damage that may happen unto me thereby. There shall not only (said he) not any harm be done unto thee, but also I promise thee, that for thy pains thou shalt be well rewarded: for in such extremities it is a great benefit unto the army that the Captain should be saved, and I had rather save one scale of myself then any subject under me. O Captains said I unto myself, which make small account of other men's lives, so you may save your own, many there be that do as this Captain doth, but how far different are such men's actions from that which I have heard reported of one Paulus Decius, a noble Roman Captain, when the Latins conspired against the Romans, and both the armies being ready to join, the night before the battle should be, the said Decius dreamt, that it was ordained by the Gods, that if he died in the battle, the Romans should overcome and get the victory against the Latins, and if otherwise he were saved and escaped, than the Romans should be overthrown, and the first thing he did, (when the battles began to join) was to set himself in such a dangerous place, that he could not by any means escape with his life, because the Romans should be victors, and so they were: but our great General Tonney, did not follow him in this point. Then I considering of the security which he promised me, and the great necessity that urged me thereunto, together with the means I then might have to be revenged of the evil entertainment and strange lodging wherein these wicked and perverse Tonnies had put me. I began to flourish with my sword, and to strike the best I could both on the left and on the right side, saying, Forth, forth, you undiscreet Tonnies, which smother our noble Captain in this Cave, and then striking and thrusting both backward and forward, in a short time, I dispatched no small number of them, not regarding, or respecting any one, but only Captain Licio, who for that I perceive his good will towards me in entering of the Cave, I bore some affection unto him, and to say truth I loved him very well, whereby I lost nothing, as hereafter shall be shown: At the which sight, those that were within the Cave, seeing the great slaughter, began to dislodge, and look with how great a force they entered, they issued forth with a greater. Which news when those that were without knew, and saw some of their companions issue forth bleeding, as being wounded, they sought no more to enter, and by that means they left us alone with the dead Tonnies, whereby I placed myself at the mouth of the Cave, and then began to give diverse fierce thrusts out of the same. And in my opinion I thought myself as nimble with my sword which then I held in my teeth, as when I used to hold it in my hand.  
After that, I having dispatched our General and those that were with him out of trouble and smothering, they began to sup of the water which at that present time was turned into blood: And likewise to tear, rent, and eat, those miserable dead Tonnies that I had slain. Which I perceiving, began to bear them company, and yet it seemed news unto me to handle them in that sort, although I had eaten of them before in Toledo, but not so fresh as I eat them then: and in that manner I filled myself with great store of sweet and savoury Fish, not letting to do it, notwithstanding all the great and terrible threatenings, that those which were without made against me for the damage I had done among them. Having ended our banquet, when the General thought it convenient time, we issued forth, I giving him to understand of the evil will and meaning that those which were without had against me, that his excellency might provide for my safety and security. He going forth well satisfied and filled, (at which time they said it is best having to do with great lords) caused it to be proclaimed openly, that whosoever were enemies either in word or deed unto the valiant stranger Tonny, that they should die for it, and that they and their heirs should be always holden and accounted for Traitors, and that their goods should be confiscated unto the King's use: for if the said stranger Tonny did them any damage or hurt, it was because they were Rebels, and had broken the Commission of their Captain, and by their negligent oversight, had put him in great danger of death: With which Proclamation every one seemed to be content, and agreed that those which died in the Cave, by that means had well deserved the same, and that the living should from thenceforth put up the quarrel, and live in peace.  
This done, the General caused all the other Captains, masters of the field, and under Officers, which had any charge of the Army, to be called together, willing as many of them as had not been within the Cave, to go in, and to divide the spoil they should find among them, which was soon done, for there were so many that they had scarce every one a morsel of a Tonny. They coming forth, because they though it good, that every one should have his part of the spoil, proclaimed openly, that each one might enter who would, which the common sort did soon perform, for any thing that was to be found there, unless it were certain drops of blood, and Lazarus clothes.  
Here I have set down for a perpetual memory, the cruelty of these Fishes, and how far different the state of man is, from this of theirs. For put the case that here upon earth there be diverse men to be found dwelling, which seek after some cunning sort, and in some covetous manner to devour their neighbour's goods, which I doubt are more to be found at this present, then hath been heretofore, by reason that men's consciences are now far larger than they have been in times past, yet there are none such to be found that are so void of reason or humanity, that they do, or would eat their neighbours flesh. Wherefore such men as daily do complain of certain wrongs and injuries done unto them upon earth, let them (say I) come unto the seas, and they shall soon perceive those things to be bread and honey which they complain of, in respect of that which is to be found among the fishes.   

CHAP. FOUR Lazarus showeth what an evil reward the General of the Tonnies gave him for his service, and of the friendship he entered into with Captain Licius.  
But returning unto the matter, the next day after, the General being in his Chamber, took me aside, and said unto me, Valiant and stout stranger Tonny, I have determined with myself, that thy good services and counsels shall be well rewarded, for if such as thou art serving as thou haste done, should not be rewarded, there would none be found in great armies, that would venture their persons in any dangerous service: wherefore in respect thereof, thou shalt from henceforth be assured of our favour and good will, and withal thou shalt be freely pardoned, of all the murders and massacres by thee committed upon our soldiers and companions within the Cave, and in memory of the good service thou didst in my behalf, delivering me from the peril of death, thou shalt possess and enjoy (as thine own proper good) this sword wherewith thou hast done us so much damage, because I see thou canst manage it so well, (but yet with this proviso,) that if with the same thou shalt hereafter commit any violence, or do any wrong unto our subjects, and the natural Tonnies of our sovereign Lord the King, thou shalt die for it, and herewith it seemeth unto me thou art well rewarded, and from henceforth thou mayst return unto the place from whence thou didst come. And so showing me no great good countenance, he left me, and went unto the rest of his company. Wherewith hearing him utter such speeches unto me, I was so astonished, that I stood almost without either sense or feeling, because I looked (at the least) he should have made me some great man (I should have said a Tonny) for my good service, giving me a charge during my life of some great Signiory in the sea, as he before had offered unto me. O Alexander said I unto myself, thou didst distribute and spread among thy soldiers such spoils and riches as thou wonst from thine enemies: I have likewise heard of Caius Fabritius, a Roman Captain, in what manner he rewarded and crowned those which first did adventure themselves to enter into the Lists: and thou Gonzago Hernandes General of the Spaniards, didst give other manner of rewards unto such as seeking to resemble the brave soldier in the service of their King, and to augment thine honour, did put themselves into all hazards of the field: for that all such as did serve and follow thee, to how many of them didst thou give great rewards? that of poor and needy soldiers thou madest them both valiant and rich: not as this unworthy Tonny doth, rewarding me with that, which in Cocodover had cost me but three royals and a half. Let those therefore that complain of great Lords upon earth, comfort themselves herein, seeing that in the deep seas there are such small rewards bestowed by great Lords. I standing in this sort, thus pensive and sad, Captain Licio perceiving it, came unto me, and said: Sir, to such as trust in great Lords & Captains, it happeneth oftentimes as it doth unto thee: for they, standing in need of other men's aid, do make many great promises, but being delivered out of danger, they do not once so much as remember their promise made. I myself am witness of thy great and good service, and of all thou hast so valiantly done, as he that hath been present by thee, and I see likewise the evil reward that thy valour and prowess hath received, besides the great peril wherein thou art: wherefore I am desirous thou shouldst understand, that many of these which are here present before thee, do among themselves conspire thy death. Therefore I will not that thou depart out of my company, for that I am bound to do for thee as for mine own child, and to favour and aid thee: not only with mine own, but also with the aid of my friends, to the uttermost of our powers, for it should be a most great damage, to lose so valiant and hardy a fish as thou art. For the which his great courtesy, I rendered him most hearty thanks, withal accepting of his gentle and courteous offer made unto me: in am whereof I presented my small ability unto him, offering to be ready at all times to do him what service I could: and wherewith he seemed to be so well content, that presently he called unto him fifteen hundred Tonnyes of his Regiment, willing them from that time forward to take charge to guard me, and to bear me company in such manner as unto himself: so that neither night nor day they did once departed from me, & that they did very willingly, for there were not many among them that hated me: and as I supposed, there was no small number among the rest of the great Army, which did bear me good will, by reason that they beheld me at such time as we fought to show forth my great valour and force. In this manner Captain Licio and I entered into league and friendship, which we showed by no small signs one unto the other, as after you shall hear. Of him I learned many things touching the customs and manners of the inhabitants of the Seas, together with the names and provinces, kingdoms and signiories of the same, and the names of the Lords and Governors thereof. In such sort, that in short space he made me as experient in them, or rather more, than the natural Tonnyes themselves: for that I could better discourse upon them, than they were able to do. Not long after, our Camp broke up, and the General willed that each Captain should departed, and that within two months after all the Captains should repair again unto the Court, for it was the King's pleasure. Wherewith my friend and I departed, and all his Company, which (to my judgement) were about ten thousand Tonnyes: among the which there were not above ten Females, and those were labouring Tonnyes, such as among Soldiers are accustomed to wash and get their living. There I saw the devices that those Fishes used to find out meat to sustain themselves: which is in this manner. They scatter and spread themselves abroad on all sides in certain places, each Company holding the circuit of a league and more, and if it fortune that two Companies do chance to meet, they turn their heads one against the other, making forward to join together, and all the Fishes which they take in the midst between them, are sure to die, and to be torn in pieces with their teeth. And in this manner do they hunt twice or thrice every day, as they chance to issue forth. Thus we filled our bellies with great store of sweet and savoury fishes, verefying the old Proverb, which saith, that the great fishes devour the small: for that if in our circuit we found any greater fishes than ourselves, we presently gave them a passport, suffering them to pass away without any brabbling, unless they desired to remain with us, helping us to kill & eat other Fishes, according unto the common saying, He that taketh no pains for his living, is not worthy to eat. At one time among others, we took certain Cuttle fishes, whereof, the biggest among the rest I saved and kept for my slave, and made him my page to bear my sword: by which means I had my mouth at liberty, and not cumbered with the same, and my Page turning one of his sins backward (in manner of a ring) carried it very easily at his pleasure, jetting and bragging among the rest. In this manner we traveled for the space of eight Suns, (for that in the Sea the days are so called) at the end whereof we drew near unto the place, where my friend and those of his Regiment kept their wives and children: of whom we were received with most great joy, and every one went home unto his own house, leaving me in the captains lodging, being after the sea manner very stately.  
We being entered into the Captain Licio's house, he said thus unto his Wife: Gentlewoman, the gains which I bring you of this Voyage, is to have gotten for my friend this gentle Tonny, which here you see. The which purchase I make no small account of: wherefore I pray you let him be welcome unto you, and give him as good entertainment, as you were accustomed to do unto my brother: for therein you shall do me a singular great pleasure, because I honour and admire his virtues.  
She was a very fair Tonny, & with a very good grace made him answer: Sir, assure yourself it shall be done as you require, and if any default be found in me, it shall not be for want of good will. Whereat I made an humble reverence, and fell down, desiring her to give me her hands that I might kiss them: which I spoke some what softly, so that (as it chanced) they neither saw nor heard my folly. But I said unto myself, what a fool am I, to desire to kiss her hands, that hath nothing but a tail? The Tonny gave me a sweet kiss, willing me to rise up, and so I was most courteously received of her: and offering unto her my service, it was very well accepted of, and received so wise an answer of her again, as of so honourable a Gentlewoman might be given. In this manner we remained there certain days in great pleasure, I being very well used and entertained by those Gentlemen, and waited upon by his servants. In the mean time I taught the Captain to play at sense, although I never had learned in all my life: and yet I did it very nimbly with my sword, which he praised very much as likewise a brother of his called Melo, a very brave Tonny. Resting thus at mine ease, one night being alone in my bed, and thinking upon the great favour and friendship I had found in this fish, my great friend, desiring if occasion might be offered to do somewhat for him, as part of a recompense of the great debt which in that behalf I ought him: at the last there came unto my mind a great service that I might do, which in the morning I imparted unto him: which he took in good part, because it was not to be disliked, and which stood him in great stead, as hereafter shall be shown. The thing was thus, that I seeing him to be so well affectionate to arms, told him that he should do well to send to the place where our shipwreck happened, and that there he should find many swords, spears, poniards, and other manner of Arms, and that they should bring away as many as they could find: for that I was minded to take the charge upon me to learn our Company the managing of them with much dexterity: which if I brought to pass, his Company should thereby be the most strong & valiant above all others, and which the King and all the Sea would most account of, because that by that means it would be more worthy for strength than all the rest joined together, whereby he might obtain much honour and profit. This seemed unto him to be the counsel of a very good friend, for the which he gave me most hearty thanks: and presently thereupon putting my counsel and advice in effect, he sent in all hast his Brother Melo with six thousand Tonnyes unto the place by me alleged, who very shortly after with great diligence returned again, bringing with them an infinite number of swords and other weapons, whereof divers were all rusty: which should seem to have lain in the sea since the time that the valiant Captain Don Luigo de Moncada suffered shipwreck in that place. The Arms being brought, they were divided amongst those Tonnnyes that seemed unto us to be the most nimble & of best courage among them. And then the Captain on the one side, his Brother on the other, & I as the chief Master of Defence, taught such as desired to be expert in their weapon: so that we employed our whole time in learning them to manage their Arms, and to defend themselves therewith. Whereby in short space there were some among them that could give the thrust, the cross blow, and the reverse: as for the rest that dealt not in their weapons, we appointed them to hunt and seek for victuals: and the women we learned to scour our weapons, by a fine invention that I devised: which was that they should thrust them into the sand, and draw them forth again so long, until they waxed bright. In such manner, that our company being joined altogether, he that should behold that part of the sea, would think he saw a great battle in the water. In the end, by this means there was almost not one of the Tonnies but began to be very expert in his weapon. Hereupon we entered into counsel, and in the same it was agreed, that we should make a perpetual league & amity with the cuttle fishes, whereby they might come and live among us, because with their large sins they might do us great service to bear our Arms: and so it was done, and they were glad of it, because they saw we took them for our friends, and maintained them: the which (as I said before) might serve our turns in that point without any pain or trouble unto them. About this time, the space of two months appointed by the General for the Captains repair unto the Court began to draw near: at the end whereof, the Captain general sent commandment that they should come thither. Whereupon Licio began to make preparation for his journey, and between him and I it was debated, whether it should be good for me to go with him to the court, to do my humble duty unto the king, that he might know me: but we found it not convenient, considering the General seemed to bear me no great good will, and that he had expressly commanded me to return unto mine own country: for the which cause, the matter being thoroughly debated in the presence of Melo, brother unto Captain Licio (a Tonny of singular good wit) and of the no less wise Tonny his wife, their advice at the present was, that I should stay there with her. Whereupon he determined to go in all speed, and to take but few of his men with him, & being at the Court, he would inform the king of me, and of my great valour, and upon the King's answer we should proceed. This being agreed upon among us, the good captain Licio departed on his journey with very near a thousand Tonnies, his brother Melo & I with all the rest staying at home in our lodgings: and at his departure from me, taking me aside he said unto me, My very friend, I must of force let you understand, that I depart from hence with no small grief, by reason of a dream I had this last night, I pray God it fall not out to be true: but if to my evil fortune it should happen to be true, I pray you that you will take it in good part, and think upon that which you have given me in charge, and hereof I pray you desire not to know any farther at this present, because it is neither convenient for you nor me. I besought him much to declare the same unto me, and the rather, because at his departure from his wife, his brother & the rest, he gave me a nod with his head, (although very sadly) leaving me very sorrowful and heavy. He being gone, I could not but think upon the matter, and divers things ran in my mind touching the same: & among the rest, I supposed this one to be it, the peradventure he unto whom I was so much beholding might think, that the beauty of his wife, (which most commonly is not matched with the greatest honesty) would blind me so much, that I could not see how the sea doth abhor so great a wickedness. But that good law is at, this day much corrupted on the earth, & in the sea it is the like, but it is no marvel. In this conceit I continued long, and in the end I devised a mean whereby he might be assured of me, and my loyalty no way suspected: which was thus, that I and her brother in law being with her, (after some salutations and comforts offered unto her on our parts, thereby to put her out of the melancholy humour which we perceived to be in her, because of her husband's departure, and the rather to behold him so sad and heavy, although that he hide it both from her and me at his departure from us) I told Melo that I desired to be his guest, if be thought it good, because I could not be merry, being always in company of women: & rather than I should be troublesome unto her, I would leave the house. She was presently ready to make me an answer, saying, that if she found any means of comfort, she thought it would be by reason that I was in her house, and at her commandment, she knowing very well the great love and affection that her husband bare unto me, & that at the time of his departure from her, he gave her not any greater charge, than of the care that she was to have of me, although I suspected not what the cause was: for our thoughts did rather disagree. In the end, I thinking that it might be with the Tonny fishes, as it was with me in the same case, touching my wife Eluira, and my master the Priest, could never be in quiet, but desired rather to be with her brother in law, and whensoever I went to visit her, I brought him always with me.   

CHAP. V Lazarus telleth what happened unto Captain Licio his friend at the Court, by means of the Captain general.  
BEing sometimes hunting, and sometimes exercising our weapons, within eight days after my friends departure, news was brought us, which made us the most sorrowful fishes in the sea. Being thus, that when the Captain general used me so hardly, as I told you before, he willed me to departed out of the Army, saying, that those Tonnies which found themselves aggrieved at me, because of my offence committed against them, would be revenged: and afterwards he had commanded certain Tonnies, that finding me alone from all company, they should presently kill me, and for no other cause more than that it seemed unto him (as it was very true) that I would be a witness of his cowardliness, for other cause there was none, but only where desert is it ought to be recompensed: but God prevented this mischief, putting (as I think) into Licio's heart, the favour he showed me. Which being known unto the General, he bore him likewise most great hatred & evil will, affirming and swearing that that which Licio did unto me, was for to vex and gréue him: and knowing very well he had but a hard witness of him, because he was with me, when the General entering into the cave cried, peace, peace. This together with that which the good Captain (and better than he) had done unto me, caused him to procure this mischief against him, and as he came unto the Court, he went presently with great complaints unto the King, accusing him as a traitor, saying, that one night as the said Licio was Captain of the guard, and held the nearest Sentinel unto the cave, for a great sum of money which was given him by the enemy, that he might escape, he left his watch. Which he affirmed to be true by divers witnesses, and even so God help him as he told the truth: for that Lazaro de Tormes could not give any thing, unless it were a number of their heads that lay dead at his feet. And going on with his falsehood, said, that he had brought from strange places, a most cruel and wicked Tonny, the which had slain a great number of his Army, with a sword that he carried in his mouth: wherewith he played his part so nimbly, that it was impossible for him to do it, except he were some devil, that for the destruction of the Tonnies had taken their shape upon him: and that he perceiving the great damage which the wicked Tonny had done, banished him from the army upon pain of death, and that the said Licio, in despite of the King and of his royal crown, as also in despite of him, had entertained the said Tonny in his company, & given him aid: for the which causes he affirmed him to be a traitor, and to have incurred the danger of the laws, and in respect thereof, he ought to be delivered into the hands of the justices to be punished for his offences, that by him others might take example, that hereafter none might break the King's commandments. The King being thus wrong informed, and worse counseled, giving so much credit unto his wicked Captain, with two or three false witnesses that swore as he had taught them, and with a proof made in the absence of the party accused, the same day that Captain Licio arrived at the Court, altogether innocent and ignorant of the matter, he was commanded to be taken and put into a cruel dungeon, with a great chain about his neck: and commission given unto the Captain General to keep him safe; and to see him punished according unto his desert, who presently provided more than thirty thousand Tonnies to watch him.   

CHAP. VI How that Lazarus understanding of his friend Licios' imprisonment, was very much grieved thereat, and all the rest of his company; and what order they took for the same.  
THese sorrowful and doleful news, were brought us by some of those that went with him, declaring unto us how they had charged him in such sort as I said before, and in what manner he had been heard, and that it would go hardly with him, by reason that all the judges which had to do in the cause, were suborned by the General, so that as they thought, the matter proceeding in such order as it did, he could not long escape from a most cruel death. (At that time I called to mind the old saying commonly used, and said unto myself, When shalt thou end thy adventures? when thou shalt have finished a thousand misfortunes on the land, and many more in the seas.) At this their speech, there began among us a great lamentation and cry, but in myself a double sorrow, because that on the one side I sorrowed for my friend, and on the other side, I lamented mine own estate, for that wanting him, I had no hope of life, being then both in the middle of the seas, and of my enemies, altogether without comfort and forsaken: for it seemed unto me that all the company complained on me, and that with most justly and by good reason, for that I was the only cause that they must lose him whom they desired. Wherewith I said, You my Lord departed from me in great sorrow, without once imparting your grief unto me, now I see well that you prognosticated my great loss, without all doubt said I, this is the dream that you my good friend dreamt, this is that grief which at your departure leaving me, you left us withal. And thus every one mourned and lamented unto himself, till at the last I spoke in presence of them all. My Lady and you my Lord and friends, that which the sorrowful news hath constrained us to do, hath been justly done, for each of us by outward sign, doth show his inward grief, but seeing that this our first motion is past, as it were in a moment, it is good reason my Lords, seeing that with tears and complaints, our loss is not recovered, that we give order presently for the best remedy that may be devised therein: and the same well weighed and considered, to put presently in effect, seeing that as these men say, the occasion of speeding the matter which by those men that hate us is ministered unto us, doth require the same. To this the fair & chaste Tonny his wife, shedding many tears from her gracious eyes, answered me. All of us (most valiant gentleman) do very well perceive & know that your reasons are most true, as also the sudden necessity which at this present offereth itself unto us, verifieth the same: wherefore if the these gentlemen and my friends were all of my opinion, we should all refer ourselves unto you, as unto him whom God hath endowed with a most clear & perfect judgement, for seeing that Licio my Lord, being so wise & learned, did put you in trust with his most earnest & weighty affairs, and therein followed your counsel, I do not think that I err any thing herein, (although I am but a weak & simple woman) in desiring you to take the charge upon you, for the providing & ordaining of that which shall be convenient to be done, for the safety of him the loved you with so sincere a love, and to the comfort of this his sorrowful wife, which by this means you shall always bind unto you.  
This said, she returned unto her complaints, and all we did the like. Melo & other Tonnies were with the captains wife, and at the present agreed in one consent with her, giving me the charge of the enterprise, offering themselves to follow me, and to do all whatsoever I would command them. I seeing that I was in duty bound to do it, and to take upon me all care & trouble for him, that for me was in such misery, took the matter upon me, saying unto them, I knew very well, that every one of you could do it better than I, but seeing that it pleaseth you so to appoint it, I am very well content therewith. They thanked me, and then it was presently agreed upon, that we should make the same known unto all the Regiment, which was presently done, so that within three days after they were all gathered together. I chose out for my Council, twelve of the richest among them, not respecting their wisdoms if they were poor, because when I was a man I had seen that sufficiently done in divers assemblies, wherein many causes of importance were handled, because (as I say) they look not whether they be appareled with wit, so they be appareled in silk. These being chosen out, one of them was Melo, and an other the captains wife, a woman of great wisdom, a thing very well known both by land and seas.  
This done, we sent unto all the company that they should dine, and then repair unto us in order of battle, the armed with their arms, and the rest with their bare bodies, when they were come, I caused them to be numbered, and we found them to be in all the number of ten thousand one hundredth and nine Tonnies, all fight men, without counting women, boys and old men, whereof five thousand of them were armed, some with sword, other with Lances, Ponyardes, and Knives, all which took their oaths upon my tail (under the which they put their heads according unto their accustomed manner,) although I laughed in myself to see their pretty ceremony,) that they would do as I should command them, and would thrust in their weapons, and those that had none their teeth, into whom so ever I should command them to do it, procuring with all their power and force if it were possible to set their Captain at liberty, their duty and loyalty unto their sovereign King always reserved.  
We agreed likewise in our Counsel of War, that the captains wife should (being amongst us,) be accompanied with the number of one hundredth of the beautifullest of all the other female Tonnies, among the rest one of them was a sister of his, a Gentlewoman of great beauty, and very well proportioned,, and of our army we made three esquadrons, one of all the unarmed Tonnies, and the other two, of those that bear arms, I led the vanguard, with two thousand five hundredth armed Tonnies, and Melo led the rearward with as many more: the disarmed, with the carriages being placed in the middle, having with us our Pages, (spoken of before,) that carried our sword.   

CHAP. VII. How Lazarus and his Tonnies being in order of battle, went unto the Court, minding to deliver Licius out of prison.  
IN this manner, as I said before, we marched forwards, in great haste, giving charge unto such as we thought good, for the provision of victuals for the army, because they should not disorder themselves. In the way I questioned with those that brought us the news, of the situation of the Court, and the place where our Captain was kept in prison, mean time, at the end of three days we were within ten miles of the Court, and for because we marched in so new and unaccustomed order, if our coming should be known, we might be prevented of that we went for, we agreed that we would not march any further until night came, willing certain of those Tonnies that had brought us the sorrowful news, to go before into the City, and as secretly as they could, learn how the case stood with our Captain, and having so done, presently to return us the news: whereof some of them returned and brought us the worst news we could desire. Night being come, it was agreed that the captains wife and her women, with Melo and five hundred Tonnies disarmed, of the best and oldest among them, should go strait unto the Court, and as they well could do it, they should beseech the King that it would please him to examine the cause of her husband and his brother, and that I and all the rest would place ourselves in a wood full of trees and rocks, within two miles of the City, where then King sometimes went to solace himself, and there we would remain until such time we should see by our advise from them, what were best to be done. We presently went unto the wood, which we found very well provided with great store of fishes, upon the which we fed, or to say the truth, filled ourselves at our pleasures, and all the company did the like. And the fair and gentle Tonny by morning arrived at the City, and presently went unto the court, where she staid a long time at the gate, until the King rose, to whom they declared the coming of that gentlewoman, in the end, by means of the importunate suit she made unto the porters, they suffered her to enter in, that she might speak unto the King. But the King, that perceived well her suit, returned her an answer, that as then he had no time to hear her, she seeing that he desired not to hear her by word of mouth, caused a supplication in very good form to be drawn by two Counsellors, that pleaded for Licio, wherein she besought him to remit judgement of Licio, seeing he had appealed unto his majesty, and the reason why, for that he was the day before condemned to die, by the judges of the land, as we understood, by our adviser, saying his highness knew very well, that her husband had been falsely accused, and unjustly condemned, and that his highness would cause the indictment to be perused, and the judgement with the execution of the sentence to be stayed. These and other things were contained in the petition, which she delivered unto one of the porters, and withal took her chain of gold with a jewel hanging thereat from about her neck and gave it him, praying him to stand her good friend, and with tears from her eyes, to consider of her dolour and grief, and not to respect the small gift. The Porter very willingly took her petition, but more willingly her chain, promising to do for her the best he could, and in very deed, his promise was not in vain, for that the petition being red before the King, he from his own mouth (full of gold) used such persuasions unto his highness, withal showing him of the tears and lamentations that the captains wife made for her husband, at the Palace gate, that therewith he moved the King to pity her estate, and said. I will that you go with this woman unto the judges, and will them to stay the execution of the judgement, because I am desirous to be better informed touching certain points concerning Captain Licios' accusation. With the which commission, the Porter very glad to have sped so well, came unto the sorrowful gentlewoman, ask her a reward for his earnest solicitation, which she willingly gave him, and then without farther delay, they went together unto the judges lodging, but as her hard fortune fell out, in going thither, they chanced to meet in the street with Don Pavar, (for so was the causer of our troubles named,) who being accompanied, went to the court, but as he espied the gentlewoman with her captain, and understood who they were, knowing likewise the Porter, craftily suspected what their meanings were, so that very dissemblingly he called the Porter unto him, ask him whither he went with that company, who presently declared it unto him: he seeming to like it well, told the Porter how the case stood touching the captain (although it was all contrary) saying that he liked well the kings proceeding therein, because Licio was a brave soldier, and there was no reason why he should be executed without further examination of the cause; saying further, that the judges were at that present in his lodging, and said they came thither to ask my counsel in the matter, whereupon I was now going to the court for to speak with the king, whereas they attend my return, but seeing that you bring a dispatch, let us go back again, and declare the king's pleasure unto them, and going by the way, he called one of his Pages to him, to whom very pleasantly he said, that he should with all haste go unto the judges, and will them presently to cause execution to be done upon captain Licio, because it was the king's pleasure, and that they should execute the same either within the prison, or else at the gate thereof, without leading him unto the common place of execution, mean time that I hold the Porter here in talk with me, the Page did as he was commanded, and drawing near unto the generals lodging, the Traitor took the Porter in with him, and said unto Melo, and his sister in law, that they should be of good comfort, and stay there, while he went in and spoke with the judges, and that from thence they would go all together to the prison to see Licio, and to comfort him, giving him that which he so long had expected, and that he meant to go thither himself with them, but the unfortunate woman by good hap was informed of the great treason of the captain general. And although he had greater hatred unto the good captain Licio, than compassion upon the tears and lamentations of his wife, yet for an outward show he seemed to favour her request. For when as the cruel traitor called unto his Page, willing him to go and cause Licios' execution to be dispatched, as God would, one of her servants heard him, and told it unto the captains wife, which the wicked general perceived not, whereat she fell in a manner dead, upon the neck of brother in law, standing next unto her. Which assoon as Melo understood, he presently caused 30. Tonnies of his company to departed with all speed, and to declare unto me in what point and imminent danger the case stood with Licio, who like faithful and diligent messengers, did within short space make us acquainted with those sorrowful news, which they brought us, crying with loud voices, Arm, Arm, you, O you valiant Tonnies, for our captain shallbe presently executed to death, by the treason and deceit of the traitor Don Pavar, against the will & pleasure of our king, and so in brief rehearsed unto us, all that I showed you before: whereat I presently caused the drums to be sounded, and in all haste my Tonnies were ready with their mouths armed, unto whom I made a pithy Oration, declaring the whole proceedings, to the end that as good and valiant soldiers they should show their courages against their enemies, aiding and succouring their captain in so extreme necessity, who answered all with one voice, that they were ready to follow me, and to do their endeavours in that behalf: which their answer being ended, we presently began to march thither, but he that had then seen Lazarus the Tonny marching before his soldiers, would have judged him a valiant captain. To conclude, we entered into the town and besieged the king's palace, and by force took Licio out of their hands, slaying great numbers of them. Which the king perceiving, willed Licio's wife who was then at the court, to sue to the king for Licio, to return unto her husband and tell him, that if he think good, I would have him to dissolve his siege from about his palace, and suffer his subjects quietly to go home to their houses, and to morrow to come hither again, and deliver her message unto the council, and then she should have justice.  
The Captain's wife with this answer departed not, but taking time when it served, said unto the king, My Lord, neither my husband nor yet his company, do hold any siege about your royal person, neither likewise have they entered into any house, but that of Don Pavar, so that the inhabitants of this city, cannot justly complain, that there hath been any injury done unto any of them in their houses, wherefore what it pleaseth you to command as touching them, it shall be done, for, for that cause I was sent unto your grace. For God is our judge, that neither Licio nor his company have any other meaning or intent, but as good and faithful subjects ought to have. Woman said the king, for this time I can say no more unto thee. Wherewith she and her women making humble reverence, with most gracious behaviour and comely sort departed from the presence, which the king's pleasure being known unto us, we presently in good order departed the city, staying in the wood, but yet not very hungry, because we fell to eating of our enemies dead bodies, commanding the disarmed Tonnies to carry as much with them, as might suffice our army for the space of three or 4. days, leaving nevertheless as much within the city, as sufficed the city and the court likewise: those that live of the spoil wished no other thing of God, then that every eight days, there might happen the like among them, light upon whom it would. The city being discharged of our troops, the citizens repaired again each man to his house, finding them as they left them. The king commanding that the captain general's treasure should be brought unto him, which was such and so much, as there was not any king within the seas, that had the like, and then the king had some reason to mistrust his traitorous dealing, because he might well suppose that it was not possible for him to get that he had gotten, by good means, but by stealth. Then he caused his council to be assembled, who said unto the king, that if it were as Licio said, he then had not much offended in that action, specially because his highness had commanded justice should not be executed until further inquiry were made: and to confirm the same, the Porter that had the message in charge, declared the subtle practice that the General used with him: and how he deceived him & brought him to his own house, saying the judges were there, and that he let them not departed from thence, and what diligence he made towards the court.  
Further, he was showed by the Sheriffs, that the Captain general had sent them word, that his Highness commanded them that they should presently cause execution to be done, and the better to dispatch it, they should not lead him thoough the accustomed streets, but do it before the prison gate: which they believing to be true, had delivered him to be executed. In such manner, that the King knew and perceived his General's fault, and the more he looked into the matter, the more he perceived it to be true.   

CHAP. VIII. How the captains wife returned again unto the King, and of the good answer she brought.  
ALL this while we stayed that day and the next night in the wood, not greatly in quiet: and the next day after the captains wife with her Company went again unto the palace: and to avoid tediousness, the King by that time was in better quietness, receiving her very courteously, and saying, Good woman, if all my subjects had so wise and discreet wives, peradventure they should increase their honour and wealth, and I account myself happy. I say this, for that in truth I seeing your discretion and wise reasons, have therewith appeased my anger, and you thereby have delivered your husband & his company from my wrath and heavy displeasure: and for because that since your being here I have been better informed than I was, tell him that upon my word he may come to the Court, with all his friends without any peril or danger. But for avoiding of tumults and speeches, at this present will him from me that he keep house as a prisoner, until I send him word unto the contrary: and in the mean time I pray you come hither and see us, because I take great pleasure to see and behold your person, good behaviour, and pleasant speech. Whereat the captains wife kissed his tail, giving him hearty thanks for the great grace and favour he showed, as she full well could do it, and so returned unto us with a most joyful answer: although some of us thought it not convenient to be done, saying it was but subtly & politicly done, thereby to get us into his hands. In the end we agreed as loyal subjects, to accomplish the commandment of our King, trusting unto 〈◊〉, I mean our mouths, when our loyalty should be brought in question. Whereupon we presently removed unto the City, and entered therein, finding in the same man is friends, which as then shows themselves, perceiving our enterprise to be well taken, and effectuated, but before they burst not make any show thereof, as the old saying is, When Fortune turneth and sendeth thee adversity, than thy friends are shaken and 〈◊〉 from thee: for adversity showeth who be friends, and who are foes. Being entered, we retired unto one end of the City wherein least people were, where stood houses great store, but most part without inhabitants, being the houses of such as we had slain, there we lodged as near as we could together: in the mean time giving commission that not one of our band should walk abroad into the City, that the Princes will might be fulfilled. Mean time the captains wife, went every day unto the Court to visit the King, as he had commanded, with whom she became a great friend: but as far as I could perceive, although all seemed clear water, yet the beautiful Luna paid for all, for the going with her sister in these visitations, (and as it is a common saying, Such pilgrims, such saints) the King won her favour so well, that in the end he obtained her love: which I verily think she did not with the consent of her sister. Which Captain Licio knew very well, for that in a manner he delivered it unto me, ask my counsel therein. I told him that in my opinion the matter was not great, specially because it would be a great help, and the principal occasion of procuring our liberty. And so it fell out: for that the fair Gentlewoman Luna was so privy with the King, that within eight days after his royal conjunction, fall out what would, we were all pardoned and acquitted: and the King releasing her brother in law, sent word that we should all come unto the Court. Being there, Licio kissed the King's tail, which he offered him very willingly, and I did the like, although with an evil will, as being a man, and to kiss in such a place. Then the King said unto us: Captain, I being informed of your loyalty, and not hearing any thing unto the contrary, therefore from henceforth I pardon you, with all your company, friends and servants, which in the enterprise past did aid and assist you: and because hereafter you shallbe here attendant at our Court, I give unto you all the houses with the goods therein, of those that (by the permission of God) lost them, together with their lives: giving you likewise the same office that our Captain general had: and from henceforth I will that you exercise the same, as one that knoweth well how to use it. Whereat we fell down before him, and our Captain Licio went & kissed his tail once again, giving him great thanks for his liberal rewards, saying, that he trusted in God to do such service in the said office, that his Highness should think it well bestowed. The same day the King was informed of poor Lazarus the Tonny, although at that time I was so rich, & so glad to see them friends, that me thought I never was better pleased. The King among divers questions, asked how I found out the invention of our arms. I answered him to his content. Then he asked with what number of fishes I and my company durst encounter? I answered, the Whales excepted, I could overcome all the fishes in the sea. Whereupon he appointed next morning to see us all muster before him. Next day Licio our General and I, with all the rest of our armed company went out, where I found a very good invention, although the soldiers use it here at this present. I made them place themselves in order, and so we passed before his Highness, making a ring: which although the Colonel Villalua and his company could do it better, and in braver manner, yet in the sea they having not seen any esquadrons made, it seemed strange unto them. After that I made a battle of our armed Tonnies together, placing the fairest and best armed in the first ranks, willing Melo with all the disarmed, and with thirty thousand other Tonnies to come forth and skirmish with us: who compassed us about on all parts. But we placing ours in good order, and holding close together, began to defend ourselves so well, and to strike and hurt them in such sort, that all the sea had not been sufficient to have entered within us. The king seeing that I had told him truth, and that in such sort we could not be hurt, called unto Licio and said, This your friend hath marvelous great skill in arms: it seemeth unto me that in this manner we might conquer and overcome the whole seas.  
It is most true as your Grace saith, said our Captain general, and as touching the good industry of the strange Tonny, my good friend, I cannot believe or be persuaded otherwise, but that he cometh from God, and was brought into these parts for the augmentation of your highness honour, together with your lands and dominions, which your Grace may very well believe: for the qualities and parts within him are such, and so excellent, that I am persuaded there is not any one able to declare them in brief: for he is the wisest & discreetest Tonny that is at this day in the sea, with all virtuous and honourable, likewise most true, and very faithful, endued with excellent manners and behaviour, such as I never heard speak of before: and to conclude, there is nothing in him tending unto evil. In saying thus much of him, your Highness must not think that I speak it by reason of the good will I bear him, but only because I know it to be most true. Truly said the King, that Tonny is much bound unto God, upon whom he so liberally bestoweth his graces and benefits: and because you report so well of him, it is good reason we should do him honour, seeing he is come into our Court, wherefore I would have you ask him, if he be minded to remain here with us, whereunto I would you should persuade him in my behalf: and it may be he shall not repent him of our company.   

CHAP. IX. How Lazarus agree to stay at the Court, and was of great credit, and very secret with the King.  
THis agreed between them, the General took upon him to declare it unto me, and the King returned unto the City, and we likewise. Being come home, the Captain told me what had passed (as touching me) between the King and him, and how he desired that I would serve him, with other things, In the end, I being entreated (with my great honour) consented thereunto. Now behold I pray you, your Crier of wives in Toledo, made the chief man in the King's house, with charge to rule and governs the same: and go & tell it for a jest. Then I gave thanks unto God, that my affairs waxed daily better, and sought with all diligence to please the King, so that in little space I fell into such credit with him, that in a manner not any thing whatsoever, were it of great or small importance, but it passed through my hands, or was done by my counsel. This done, I thought it not convenient to suffer such as had deserved punishment to escape: because I knew very well, how and in what manner Licio's sentence had been unjustly given, although the king had passed it over in silence, by reason the Captain general was a Fish of great account and of great power. Whereupon it entered into my mind to ring the bells again, and said unto the King, that there had a matter of dishonour happened to him of late, which were not worthy to be kept in silence, because it was a means to cause justice to be done, as a thing appertaining unto his majesties service, that such as are faulty should be punished. Which his Highness presently committed unto me, as he did all other things: and I endeavoured myself so well therein, that I caused all the partakers in the same to be apprehended, when they little thought of any such matter: who being put unto the rack, confessed they had sworn falsely in the cause, whereby Licio was condemned: and ask them wherefore they did it, and what the wicked General gave them to do it, they answered, that he had not given nor promised them any thing, neither were they his friends or servants. O senseless and miserable sinners, O contentious men said I, which complain that your adversaries condemn you by false witnesses, which they proved against such times: come come I say unto the sea, and you shall behold the small reason you have to complain upon earth: for that if the same your adversary do produce false witnesses, either he giveth or promiseth them somewhat for their pains, or else they were his friends or acquaintance before that time, for whom he promiseth to do the like: but these unfaithful fishes are neither by promise, by reward, nor friendship moved thereunto, wherefore they are so much the more to be blamed and worthy of punishment, and so they were hanged. I understood farther, that the Clerk by whom the cause was pleaded, did not present nor yet take any writing that was brought him in the behalf of Licio, neither admitted any one to speak that desired to answer for him. O great shame said I, which although if be suffered on earth, that the clerk be favourable, yet with more honesty they take the writings, although they put them not into the Court, but rather say they be lost: but this is the very act of the devil. The like was found in the judges, for that I knew it could not be uprightly done, that the Sentence was so soon given: wherein I blamed the judges much, saying unto them, that a plea in a manner for two straws is not commonly ended in a year, and some not in ten, nor yet twenty: and you dispatch a matter touching the life of an honourable Fish in one hour. Whereunto they could not answer me aught to excuse their fault: but the King sent express commandment, that he would have the matter dissembled withal as touching them, because it concerned his royal authority: and so I did, but therewith I well perceived and saw, that the gracious and mighty hand of him that humbleth when he will, and exalteth whom it pleased him, ruled among them, & likewise in the wicked General: for where covetousness and envy entereth, it corrupteth all things. For the which cause the King of Persia punished a wicked judge most grievously, causing him to be executed, and after flean, whose skin he nailed up over the seat of justice, placing the judges son in his father's seat: whereby the Barbarian King did very well provide in most strange manner, that no judge after that time should be corrupted. To the same end, it is said by a wise man, That where affection reigneth, reason hath no place: and that the good Lawyer did commit very few causes unto the judges, but rather let them be determined by law, because the judges are many times corrupted, either by love, hatred or gifts: whereby they are induced to give many unjust judgements. For which cause the Scripture saith: O you judges take no gifts, which blind the wise, and subvert the words of the just. This I learned of my good master, with all the rest of my experience in the law: who (as it is reported) was better learned, than either Bartolus or Seneca. But to return unto my first purpose. I told ye the King sent word it should be so, although it went wholly against my mind. In the mean time, the General by the King's commandment, had a voyage to make, which was with a great Army to invade the Sturgeons, whom we presently overcame, making their King tributary: for the which he delivered hostage, with condition to pay yearly for a tribute unto our King a great sum of money, and withal to deliver him one hundredth female Sturgeons, & one hundredth males: which male Sturgeons because they are a dainty fish, the king eat them at his own table, & the females he kept for his pleasure. After that, our General went against the Porpeses, which he overcame, & brought under our subjection. Wherewith the number of our armed Tonnies grew so great and puissant, that we held many kind of fishes in subjection under us, all which became tributaries and gave pledges, as we said before. Then our Captain (not being contenced with the victories past) armed himself against the Cocodriles, which are a kind of most fierce fishes, and live sometime in the sea, and sometime on the land, with whom we had many battles: and although we lost some, yet for the most part he bore away the victory. But it was no marvel that we lost some, because (as I said before) those kind of fishes are very fierce & cruel, great bodied, with great teeth and long tusks, wherewith they tore in pieces as many of us as they could reach into their paws: and yet for all their fierceness, we many times put them to the worst, unless if were sometimes when they saw themselves over-pressed by our Tonnies, than they forsook the water, and took the land, and so they escaped. Which our Captain Licio perceiving, in the end left them, after he had spoiled great numbers of them: and he himself likewise received great damage, and lost the good Melo his brother: which caused no small grief throughout the whole Army. But our comfort was, that he died like a valiant Tonnie: for it was reported unto us for a truth, that before they killed him, he in person with his sword (wherewith he was very nimble) killed more than a thousand Cocodriles, & yet they had not killed him, if it had not chanced, that they flying, and he after them, he suddenly fell upon the land, & there stayed, by which means (not being able to be seconded by his company) the enemy tore him in pieces. In the end, good Captain Licio returned from the wars, the most renowned fish that then lived in the seas, bringing with him great & rich spoils, which he gave wholly unto the King, without taking any thing for himself. At his return, his Highness received him with such countenance and entertainment, as belonged unto a fish that had done him so great service and honour, and withal bestowed most liberal rewards upon him, as also unto those that had followed him: in such manner, that every one found himself contented and pleased. And the King to show the greater favour unto Licio, mourned for Melo his brother the space of eight days, and so did we al. Your worship must understand, that the mourning among the fishes, is, that when they are sad and mourn, during that time they speak not, but only by signs ask what they desire to have. And this is the manner that is observed among them, when as their husbands, wives, children, or friends do die, they mourn in that sort as I said before, and keep it so straightly, that it is holden for a great ignomy, and that the greatest that may be found within the seas, if when they mourn they chance to speak, until such time as the King sending unto them, willeth them to leave mourning: and then they speak as they did before. I heard it reported among them, that a Lord (for the death of a Lady whom he loved, and kept as his friend) mourned in his own Country for the space of ten years, and for all that the King could do, he might not cause him to leave off mourning, because that at such time as he sent him word to leave off, he sent word to beseech his Grace, to cause him to be killed, rather than leave off mourning: which he could not do. And which is more, I was told (wherein I took great pleasure to hear it) that his servants perceiving his long silence, some of them at a month, others another month, and other some at two months, as they desired to speak, forsook his house, so that in the end he had not one left: and here with his mourning continued so long, that although he had desired to leave it, he knew not with whom to speak. When they told me this, I called to my remembrance divers talkative men, with whom I am very well acquainted, who never leave talking, but assoon as one tale is ended, they begin again. And many times, because they would not lose company, they cut off their tales in the middle, and begin others, and so continue until the very night come upon them, that they must needs leave company, or else they would never have done, and the worst is, that these men do not perceive how much they offend God and the world herein, and I think are little less, then troublesome unto the devil himself, and he that will be wise, let him fly the company of these fools, because like requireth like, for their pains, I wish they were vassals unto this Baron: and that during their abode with him, his friend might die, that I might be revenged on them.   

CHAP. X. How the King and Licio determined to marry Lazarus unto the fair Lady Luna, and how they were married.  
But returning unto our matter, the mourning, and sorrow, holden for the death of Melo, being past, the king sent word that with all speed the number of armed Tonnies should be new supplied and increased, and that they should go seek more arms, which was presently done. At which time it seemed good unto the king to marry me, to some one whom he thought good, and thereupon he dealt with Licio about the same, unto whom he committed the matter, but he would willingly have been quit of the charge, because he knew somewhat by her, but for that it pleased the king, he durst not otherwise do: so he broke the matter unto me, being not a little ashamed to do it, saying: that he saw and knew I deserved more honour, as my deeds witnessed, but the king had expressly commanded that he should be the marriage maker. In the end, the matter being at that point, it is my good fortune, said I unto myself, a nail is not good to play at tennis withal, and a plague of such a ball as cannot be taken but at the second rebound, and seeing it pleaseth God it shall be no otherwise, and that it is for my profit and advancement, it is reason that I climb from a priest unto a king. In the end I did it, and my marriage was solemnized, with so great triumphs and feastings, as if it had been for a prince, being honoured with the degree of a viscount, that the king gave me with her, which if I had it here upon earth, would do me much more good than in the sea, in the end from the base or meanest Tonny, my name rose unto a signor. In the manner my signory led a triumphant life, married very richly with my fair and new wife, the Lady Luna, but much better with my king, not forsaking his service, devising still how I might please and content him, seeing I found myself so much bound unto him, so that there was no time by me omitted, wherein I made him not merry, howsoever it fell out, but still I took care not to say any thing whereby he might be grieved or angry, having always in memory, how little they are esteemed and accounted off with great Lords, that tell them the truth. Withal remembering the entertainment that Alexander gave unto the Philosopher Calistines, for declaring the truth unto him, & by this means I sped not ill: beside, I behaved myself in such sort unto both great and little, that they sought my friendship almost as much as the kings. At the same time I though to frame & confirm the estate of the sea, like unto that of the land, whereupon I advised the king, and told him it were convenient that seeing he bore the burden of all, he should reap the profit, and it was thus: for that as then the Crown had no other rents or revenues then only the thirtieth part of all things that were sold, and when he held war for a just cause concerning his Country, they gave him the fishes necessary and convenient for the same wars, and paid for them, and only ten fishes for his own table every day, I brought it to pass, that when they fished they should every one give him as much, and that it should be a custom as it is upon the land, and that they should allow him 50. fishes every day for his own table: I caused it likewise to be ordained, that if any of his subjects were called a Don, unless he were so by lawful and lineal dissent of patrimony, he should pay a certain sum for a fine unto his highness, and this statute I thought to be convenient, because the pride of the fishes is so great, that both good and bad, rich & poor, all are Dons, as Don here, and Don there, Don when, and Don where: I did this, calling to mind the commendable behaviour of the women of my country, that if any chance to fall into that degree, either she shallbe the daughter of an honest householder, or of a squire, or else be married with some that is written worshipful, or unto some other man of quality: for before they be such, and of good wealth, they call them not by the title of Don, but in the sea, not so much as the daughter of a mean artificer, or a beggar (if she marry a man, although he be no Officer at all,) but they presume within eight days after to put the name of Don upon their tails, as if that name of Don would make them free from being the children of dishonest parents, and of those that had no such titles, and as though many of them should not be ashamed, lest they give cause to have their fathers taken out of their graves, and the memory of them to be again renewed, and so their neghbors might laugh at them, and at their worships, which they take upon them, knowing it not to be very sound, but therein they show themselves to be the more fond and light headed. It seemed good unto the king to set it at a high rate, whereby in short space seeing it cost money, there would not be many Dons found. Of these things, and of the new Impositions most profitable for the king, I informed his highness. And he perceiving my great care and diligence in his service, was not slack in rewarding me, but rather became more liberal and bountiful unto me. At the same time I thought upon my poor Squire of Teledo, or rather upon his wise speeches, when as I complained unto myself, that I could not find any Gentleman of account with whom I might be, and if I chanced to find one, I understood him to be very niggardly and sparing: Then he told me of that, which I after used in the sea, as a thing very profitable for me, specially one point therein, whereof I was very careful, which was, that I took great care not to say any thing unto the king that might offend him, and as it is a great point of wisdom, I altogether followed his humour, using great courtesy, and showing great favour, unto such as he favoured, although they nothing deserved it, and to such as he liked not of, I used them hardly, speaking evil of them, although I found it not in them, and not refusing to do for any were they never so bad. Remembering the said Calistines, that for saying the truth unto his master Alexander the great, he caused him to be cruelly put to death, although his death it might be esteemed a life, seeing it was for so just a cause, but now no man useth it, but all seek to live in such manner, that I bent myself as much as I could unto that humour, and by this means my sop fell into the honey, and my house was filled with rich riches, but although I was a Fish, I had the understanding of a man, and the accursed covetousness which at this day reigneth so much in man, for that a beast having his natural food, desireth nor seeketh not any more. As the Cock careth not for all the pearls in the East, if he may have his belly full of corn, nor the Ox for all the gold in India, if he have grass enough, and so is it with all other beasts, only the beastly desire of man is never satisfied, specially if it be infected with covetousness. I say this, because that notwithstanding all the riches I had, (as there was not almost any king in the sea, that had more, yet I was so pricked forward by that greedy covetousness, and not with any lawful means, that I caused some to go unto the gulfs of Leon, and Yerro, others I sent unto the banks of Flaunders, where divers ships full of men were cast away, and to such places where any battles had been fought upon the seas, from whence they brought me great quantity of gold, so that I think they brought me at the least five hundredth thousand Dollars, (a kind of Spanish money) the king laughed when he saw me so rejoice, and to lie tumbling upon my money, and asked me what those vain things meant, seeing they were neither to be eaten nor yet to be carried about me, whereat I said unto myself: If thou knewest what they mean as well as I do, thou wouldst not ask me such a question, but I answered him, that I meant to use them for counters, wherewith he was satisfied, but after I came again to dwell on earth, as I will show you, a plague of them all for any that I ever saw, and if I had all those here that were brought me in the sea, I should have no need of any man, but then I must be forced to keep them in some other such deep and secret place, lest I might happen to lose them. At that time I desired, if it had been possible, to find a ship that would take and lad them in, (although I should give the half part for the fraught,) and deliver the rest to my Eluira in Toledo, that with some of them she might marry my daughter, for I was well assured that there were many that would not refuse her, being the daughter of a Crier. And with this desire, I skipped twice or thrice after ships, that came from the West, crying unto them, above the water, that they might hearken unto me, thinking they would understand me, and imagine my meaning, and although they were not faithful messengers to carry the treasure, or some part thereof, unto Toledo, wherewith they might profit men, and do them good withal, yet it would content my mind, for the love I bear unto mankind, but when I called them, or they perceived me above water, they presently cast hooks and darts at me, to kill me, wherewith I turned and went again unto my house, sometimes I wished that Toledo were a port of the sea, that I might fill it with riches, for that I doubted not but my wife and my child should get some part thereof. And with these and other thoughts and imaginations, I passed my time, and spent my life in the sea.   

CHAIP. XI. Lazarus going to hunt in a wood, having lost his company, he found the Truth, and spoke with him.  
I Being by fortune stayed from my company, found the Truth, which told me that she was the daughter of God, and that she had descended down from heaven upon earth, for to live there, and do good unto men, and how she had not left any place unsought, but had visited all estates both great and small, and although that in some great men's houses she found some entertainment, others thrust her clean out of their doors, which their ingratitude perceived by her, she said, had caused her to withdraw herself into a rock in the deep sea, she told me of many marvelous things, that had passed among all manner of men, which if I should write unto your worship, it would be over long, and out of the matter, touching my troubles, when it pleaseth your worship to have the whole discourse that passed between us, it shall be sent you, I being come home, showed the king what had passed between me and the Truth.   

CHAP. XII. How Lazarus departing from the Truth, going with the female Tonnies to bring forth their young, he was taken in the Fisher men's Nets, and turned again into a man.  
GOing very cheerfully unto the Court, being greatly comforted with the words that the Truth had used unto me, I lived for a time very merely in the sea, and then the time drew near, that the female Tonnies should be delivered of their young, of that voyage the King willed me to go, because he always sent some strength with them, to defend them, and at that time Licio was sick, if he had been well, I know he would have gone that voyage, and since I had been in the Sea, I had gone three or four times, because every year once they use the same order. In that voyage, I took with me ten thousand female Tonnies, and there were above five hundredth thousand female Tonnies which were all big with young.  
We having taken our leave of the king, went on our journey, and in the end entered into the straits of Gibraltar, and being past them, we came unto Covil, and to Vexar, places under the dominion of the Duke of Medina Sodinia, whereas they prepared an army ready against us, of the which I being advertised, and that there we were wont to be hardly dealt withal, willed them to take care of themselves, but they being desirous to be delivered in that place, it being prepared ready for that purpose, how well soever they looked unto themselves I know not, but this I am sure of, that in the space of eight or nine days, I wanted above fifty thousand female Tonnies. Which damage we perceiving, agreed to put our valiant Armed Tonnies with them into the key of the Haven, and while that they were delivered of their young ones, if the Fishermen sought means to take them, we would strike in among the Fishermen and their Nets, cutting them asunder in small pieces, but we deceived ourselves, and found that our device did fall out clean contrary to all our expectations, by reason of the great strength and skill that the men used, which is much greater than that of the Tonnies, and so by their mighty force they took us all, with an infinite number of the female Tonnies in one Net, without in a manner receiving any damage of us, but rather great gains, and as my companions perceived themselves taken, they were dismayed, and therewith beginning to sigh, let their arms fall out of their mouths, which I did not, but they took me with my sword, having therewith done sufficient damage unto their Nets, and with me they took my fair and second wife. The Fishermen wondering to see me armed in that sort, sought to make me forsake my sword, which I still held very fast, but they pulled so long thereat, that in the end, they pulled an arm and a hand out of my mouth, (wherein I held my sword,) and then they perceived in my head, my forehead, eyes, nostrils, and the half of my mouth. They being much abashed at this fight, held me fast by the arm, and others taking me by the neck, began to pluck me out of my fishes skin, and as I was half out of my case, I looked about, and perceived hard by me my poor wife Luna, in great fear, and rather in more perplexity than the Fishermen, unto whom I began to speak in man's language, and said; Brethren, discharge I pray you your consciences, and let none of you offer to kill me with the brasser, for you must know that I am a man as you are, but make an end of pulling me out out of my skin, and I will declare great secrets unto you. I said this, because many of my companions lay hard by me dead, and their heads broken in pieces, with staves which the Fishermen had for that purpose: and then I desired them of courtesy, that they would let that female Tonny next unto me to swim away, because she had been my companion and wife a great time, and they being greatly astonished to see and hear me, did as I desired them. But at such time as my companion departed from me, weeping and in great fear, I said unto her in my Tonnies' language, Luna my sweet heart, I commit thee to God, I pray thee come no more hither to be taken, but show the King and all my friends what thou hast seen, and I pray thee likewise to have a care of thy honour and mine.  
Which done, she without making me any answer, skipped into the water, and went her way in great fear: us they took from thence, and in my presence killed my companions, and cut them in pieces at the water side, and kept me half a man and half a fish in the sand, with great fear lest they would burn me: the fishing being ended the day, they asked me many questions and I told them the truth of every thing, praying them to pull me whole out of my fishes skin, which as then they did not, but the same night they set me upon a Mule, and brought me unto Siuil, presenting me unto the most noble Duke of Medina, great was the admiration that both men and women had to see me, for that in long time there had not any thing so wonderful happened in Spain. In that case they held me for the space of eight days, during the which time, they understood of me, what troubles I had passed: but at the end of eight days, I felt myself not well in the part of my body that was Fish, and it spoiled because it felt not the water, so I besought the Duke and the Duchess, that for the love of God, they would cause me to be pulled out of that prison, seeing I was brought unto his grace, showing them what pain I felt, whereunto they agreed, and it was appointed to be cried throughout all the Town of Siuil, that I should be pulled out of my fishes skin, that thereby every man might come and see my conversion, which should be done upon a scaffold set up in an open market place before his lodging, that all men might behold it. The Duke's lodging was hard by the Town of Siuil, all the streets entering into the Market place were full, and not so much as the tops of houses, but were laden with people, such an innumerable sort resorted thither at that time, than the Duke willed them to go, and fetch me out of my Cage wherein they had kept me ever since they brought me from the sea side, in the way I was much troubled, because of the great multitude of people, that flocked about me, by which means if I had not had Iron grates between me and them, without all doubt they had smothered me to death. O good God said I, what alteration is there now in me? for that I have seen a man in a Cage, although not greatly at his ease, but I never saw a man turned into a fish. So they took me out and carried me unto the market place, with fifty Holberdiers going about me, to keep the people from me, and yet could very hardly do it.   

CHAP. XIII. How Lazarus was openly upon a stage from a Tonny fish, converted in Seville, unto a man.  
THen I being set upon the scaffold, they began to pull me, some by that part of my body that was out already, and others by the fishes tail, in such manner, that in the end they pulled me out as naked as ever I came forth of my mother's womb, and there lay the Tonnie, being nothing but a skin. Then they presently gave me a cloak to cover me withal, and the Duke commanded that a suit of his apparel should be brought me, which although they fitted me not, yet I put them on: and then I was so feasted and visited by the people, that during the time of my continuance there, I had in a manner no time to take my rest, for that both night and day they ceased not to come and see me, and to ask me divers questions, and he that could get but a time to hear me, thought himself happy. But within certain days after my conversion, I fell sick, because the earth did alter me, being as than not accustomed thereunto, for that between the nature of the sea and land there is great difference: so that then I began to cleanse and purge myself, in such manner, as I thought verily that my troubles and my life would have ended both together, I pray God deliver me from this and other troubles. At the last, when I felt myself strong and able to walk, I took my leave of my friends there, who full sore against their wills granted it unto me, for that they desired to have had me still there with them, to hear the marvelous things that had happened unto me: whereunto I made no conscience to add somewhat, which they verily believed, because they had seen me so wonderfully converted. But in the end without staying any longer, they let me go, and sent me away very well provided for my journey, and so upon the day before the feast of Pentecost last passed, I came unto Toledo, the most desirous man in the world to see my wife and child, and embracing her a thousand times, which manner of pleasure I had not had for the space of four years, because it is not used in the sea, for there is nothing else but nods and kisses. I came into the Town by night, and went strait unto my house, which I found without any body in it: for they were all gone unto my Master the Priest's house, where they were already gone to bed & asleep. But I gave so many blows at the door, that therewith they wakened, ask me who was there? I telling them, my wife Eluira answered me very sharply with a loud voice: Away thou drunkard whatsoever thou art, that walkest the streets at this time of the night for to mock and deceive poor widows: coming now at the end of three or four years, (that to my evil fortune God took away my husband, and drowned him in the sea, in sight of his master, and of many other that saw him sink down) to tell us a jest: & therewith she went to bed again, without any more hearkening unto me: wherewith I began again to call & knock at the door. Then my Master the Priest being chafed, rose up, and came unto the window, and with a loud voice said, what would that fellow have, what kind of dealing is this? I would feign know who thou art, that in the morning I may reward thee for this thy uncourteous dealing, which at this time of the night comest unto men's doors that are at rest, telling them jests, and making such a noise, that thou breakest both their sleep and their rest. signor (said I) let not your worship be offended, and if you desire so much to know who I am, as much do I desire to tell it you. I am your Crier Lazaro de Tormes. I had scarce uttered my words, but I felt a stone come buzzing close by my ears, & that with a good will, and after that two or three more: which striking against the stones in the street, for that it was paved, made the fire to sparkle out of them. I perceiving the danger, and hoping for no better reason at his hands for that time, went down the next street that lay before me: and being a good way past the house, I stayed, and he was still in the window, crying out aloud: Come again to mock us, and see how thou shalt speed. I remembered myself, and thought to have turned back, and once again to prove the adventure, because I was not desirous to discover myself unto any other. But because it was very late, I determined to pass the rest of the night there, and in the morning to go unto mine own house.  
But it fell out clean contrary: for not far from the place where I stood, there was one of the Sheriffs of the Town, which kept watch about the same: who taking my sword from me, led me unto prison. I knew some of my Masters the sergeant that were with him, and calling them by their names, I told them who I was: but they laughing at me, said, that it was more than three years past that he whom I spoke of died in the Voyage of Argiel, and so went with me unto prison, where I stayed till day light: which being come, when others made them ready and prepared themselves to go to Church, and to keep so holy and Festival day, I thinking to do the like, because I supposed I should be known of them all: in came the Sheriff that had taken me, and putting a fair pair of fetters on my heels, and a great chain about my neck, put me into the house where the rack stood, saying, Let this Gentleman (counterfeiting the justice, and naming himself to be a Crier) stay here these few days until we may learn who he is, seeing you do walk by night to scale Priests houses, and to seek after your best beloved, when your head is full. We came hither in an evil hour said I unto myself, and then I said unto him, that I lived not in any such sort, nor yet went abroad to do any such things. I cannot tell whether you go or no said he, but even now I met the Priest of Saint Saludors Church, coming out of the sheriffs house, saying, that the last night he had like to have been rob, and the thieves thought to have entered his house by force, if he had not defended himself with good stones: and said that one of the thieves named himself Lazaro de Tormes his Crier, and I told him that I met you hard by his house, and that you said as much unto me, and therefore I sent word that you should be safely kept. Then the jailor said, that Crier which you speak of, was once in this Town, but he died in the Voyage unto Argiel, I knew him very well: God be merciful unto him, for he was a man sufficient to carry two Stops of wine with the best drinker hereabout from one house unto the other, without any kind of staggering.  
O unfortunate wretch that I am said I, which have not as yet ended all my ill fortunes, without doubt they will begin again to assail me: what should this mean, that those whom I know, and am present in their company, and take them for my friends, should now deny me, and not know me? But it is not possible that fortune can cross me herein, that my wife should not know me, as being the thing that I most desire, and she me. With that, I entreated the Keeper, and gave him somewhat for his pains, that he would go unto her, & show her that I am here, and that she would come & fetch me out of prison. And he laughing at me, took the royal, saying he would do it: but it seemed unto him that I was not in earnest, for that if I were he of whom I spoke, he said he should know me, because (said he) I have seen him at the least a thousand times here within the prison, coming to visit those that had been whipped: and that he was the best Crier, and had the clearest voice in all Toledo. But in the end (I being so importunate with him) he did so much, that he brought my Master the Priest with him: and when I heard him speak in the place where I was, a candle being brought, I had as much joy, as they in Purgatory may have when the time of their deliverance draweth near: & weeping with grief, but more for joy, I said unto him: O my good Master Rodrigo de jeves chief Priest of S. Saluadors, look upon this your good Crier Lazaro de Tormes, tormented and laden with irons, having for these three years passed the most strange and wonderful adventures that ever were heard of. Whereat he held the candle somewhat nearer unto my face, and said, The voice is jacobs', but the skin is Esau's. Brother (said he) it is true that in speech you somewhat resemble him, but in gesture you are far different from him that you say you are. Then I began to think with myself, and desired the jailor to lend me a glass, which he brought me, and when I looked into it, I perceived myself to be changed in favour from that I was before, but specially in colour, which I was wont to have as red as a Pomegranade, I mean as the kernels of the same, and now as the yellow of the shell, being wholly changed in countenance, whereat I blessed myself, and said: Now my good Master, I do not marvel (being thus as I am) that your worship nor yet any of my friends do not know me, seeing that I know not myself: but worship hath made me now to feel it. wherefore Master Sheriff, I would desire you to give us a little liberty to speak together, and you shall see that I have not told any lie. He did so, and we being alone, I told him all the signs and tokens of things passed between us, since we were first acquainted, naming the days and times. After that I told him all that I had passed, and how I was turned into a Tonny, and how long I continued in the sea, and what I did there, and that it was the water that had so changed my colour, and altered my gesture, which until then I had not once looked into: so that in the end he stood still in a great admiration, and said unto me. This that you say is well known here in the City to be very true, that there was a man being a Tonny fish seen in Seville, and besides that the tokens you give me are all true, but notwithstanding I doubt it much to be so: but that which I will do for you, shallbe to bring my Nurse hither, and peradventure she will know you better. Wherewith I gave him hearty thanks, and besought him to give me his hand that I might kiss it: and he gave me his blessing, as he had done many times before, but for his hand he refused it unto me. Thus that and three days more passed over, and at the end thereof in the morning the justices Lieutenant with his afficers and Clerk came into the prison to me, and began to examine me upon intergatories: which if I would not answer unto, they had commission to set me on horseback, or to say more aptly to hang me up. Whereat I could not choose but shed many tears, fetching most great sighs, and complaining unto myself of my great misfortune that followed me continually: and with the greatest and best reasons I could devise, I besought the Lieutenant that as than he would not torment me, because I was otherwise sufficiently vexed and grieved, which to prove, I willed them to come near and behold my gesture: whereat bringing the light somewhat nearer he said, Certainly I know not what force may do in many things, but as far as I can perceive he is not without great grief, which by his disposition may well be seen: let us leave him at this time, until he be somewhat better, or else that he dieth, and quit himself of all, and so they left me. Then again I besought the Keeper, that he would go unto my Master's house, and entreat him on my behalf to accomplish his word and promise given unto me, that he would bring my wife with him unto the prison: and therewithal I gave him another royal, (because they never walk in vain). Thither he went, and returned me answer, that the next day they both promised me to come: wherewith I being somewhat comforted, that night I slept better than at other times. And in my dream me thought I saw my Lady & friend the Truth, who showed herself very angry toward me and said: Thou Lazarus dost not seek to amend thy life, whereas thou didst promise me (being in the Sea) not to let me departed from thee, and now since thou camest forth, thou hast in a manner never once looked upon me: for which cause, the divine justice hath thought it good to punish thee in this, that in thine own Country and in thine house thou shouldest not be known, but shouldst be put unto the rack, as an evil doer. In the morning thy wife will come, and thou shalt be delivered with thy honour and credit. And so she departed, leaving me very joyful of such a vision, knowing she said most true, and that my punishment was most just, because the lies which I told and mixed with my speech were so many and so great, although those that were true, were very strange and wonderful of themselves, that they were sufficient with the very fear in hearing of them to strike men dead: which fault I determined to repent and amend, and for the same was very sorrowful. Morning being come, my gesture and countenance became as it was at the first, and then I was known both of my Master and my wife, and so taken out of prison and brought home to my house, where I found my daughter almost big enough to make another. And after I had rested myself for a time, I returned again unto my pot and my cup, whereby in short space after I had my own proper gesture, and a pleasant good life.   

CHAP. XIIII. How Lazarus went unto Salamanca, and of the friendship he found there, and of the disputation he held with the Rector, and how he dealt with the Students of the University.  
I Living somewhat at my pleasure, and being very well used and appareled, had a desire to travel from thence to see the Country of Spain, and to sport and solace myself for a time, because I was in a manner filled with the shadow of the sea. And thinking with myself whether I should goen, at the last I went unto Salamanca, where it is said the seven Sciences have their dwelling place: and it was thus, that I had many times wished and desired to prove if I could deceive any one of those Abbots or long gowned fellows, which call themselves Licenciates. And as the town is full of them, so the smell and savour of them stretcheth far and near, although I pray God keep them from my house in the night time. I went therefore presently unto that town: and thinking upon the sea; wherein I had been, I marveled with myself to beholo that I saw in the town, which was somewhat more than I had heard reported of it, whereof I will tell you, specially of one thing that happened unto me therein. I going along in one of the greatest streets, met a man riding upon an ass, (and because as then I was somewhat small eyed and weary, I could not go any further, nor yet turn backward without great pain) the man began to cry out and say, Out of the way signor bachelor. I stirred not, but giving him a more honourable name, cried, Out of the way signor Licenciado, out of the way in the devils name: and therewith began to lay upon him with a staff that I bore in my hand. Whereat you might presently have seen him kick forwards and backwards: so that what with master Licenciado on one side, and the Cavallero on the other, I never in my life saw better sport, nor a Licenciado of his quality, unto whom all men gave place, or that had so many people to behold him. But then I knew him presently to be one that caused himself to be honoured with great names, as I had done in the sea, because of my force and valour, among the Tonnyes.  
Yet nevertheless they did honour to others as well as unto me, for although they called me signor, yet they gave me no more liberty thereby, than I got unto myself by force, among them. So that I assure your worship, if I should continue long there, I would rather be the ass-headed Licencioado, then poor Lazarillo de Tormes. From thence, being among the press, I went into a College, where I saw so many Students, and heard so many voices, that I dare say there was not one among them but was more wearied with crying, than with wit. And among many of others that I knew (although not one of them knew me) as God would I found one of my friends of Toledo, with whom I had been acquainted, and he served with two masters, which were of the best in the College. He being a wise fellow, and waiting on them in their chamber, told his masters of me, in such manner, that it was worth a dinner and somewhat more unto me. True it is, it was after the manner of Colleges, a short dinner, and little meat, ill dressed and worse served: for I assure you, there was never a bone that escaped without breaking and sucking. In dinner time we talked of many things, and I replied again so well, that they both perceived I had gone further for my experience, than they had done for their knowledge: then I told them what had happened unto Lazarus, and that with such words, that they all asked me, where I had studied, whether in France, Flanders, or in Italy, and if at that time it had pleased God to have granted me but a word or two of Latin, I had posed them all, but at the last I left off speaking, being not desirous to give them occasion to ask me any more, lest they might propound something whereunto I could not answer. Nevertheless they thinking me to be an other manner of man than I was, determined to have me openly defend certain conclusions, and I because I knew them all to be Castilians, as I myself am, so that without shame I might show myself before them all, refused not, for he that knows how to behave himself among the Tonnies, which play but with their snouts, will make his party good enough with them that play but with their tongues: The time was appointed to be the next day following, and all the University were charged to be there without fail, for to hear us, where your worship might have seen your Lazarus in greatest honour in the City, set among so many Doctors, Licentialls, and Bachelors, that I assure you, the tenth part of them were sufficient to till all the fields in Spain, and with the tithes thereof, to satisfy the whole world: there you might behold so many colours of apparel, and so many degrees in the seats, that there was no account made of a man, but of his degree. And before I went in among them, they would have had me appareled as they were, which Lazarus refused, because that seeing I was a stranger, and not any student of that university, they ought not to wonder at the same, but rather to judge by the learning, (because the disputation was to that end) then by the apparel, although it were unaccustomed. I saw them all in such order and so grave, to say the truth, whosoever should say I had more fear than shame, or rather more shame than fear, should not mock me. But to come to the matter, Lazarus being set in his place, (behold what a student I was) every one seeing my Doctoral presence, and how gravely I could behave myself, and in as good order as they, the Rector desired to be the first that might dispute with me, although it were not the custom among them. And so he propounded a question somewhat hard and difficult to be answered: ask me how many Tons of water are in the sea, whereunto (I being a man well studied, and it not being long since my coming from thence,) knew very well how to answer: saying, he should cause all the waters to be stayed and kept in one place: which done, I would quickly measure it, and then satisfy his demand. He hearing my short and ready answer, such as the best of them all could not have mended, and being at a stay, for that he thought to have posed me, finding it to be impossible with that question to do it, left that charge unto me to measure it, and then to tell him. The Rector being abashed with that answer, put an other argument unto me, thinking to try my wit, to see if I would make him as pithy an answer to the second, as I did unto the first: he asked me how many days had passed from the creation of Adam, until that time: as though I had been always living in the world, with a pen in my hand keeping account of them, when as to tell you the truth, I do not remember mine own, but only that I was once a priests boy, and then a schoolmasters boy, and such like, whereof I kept better account than of my days. But this notwithstanding I answered him, saying there was no more than seven, because that when those seven are past, there followeth other seven, and so it had continued from the beginning of the world until that time, and should likewise continue so to the end of the world: then your worship might have seen Lazaro esteemed a great Doctor, among the Doctors, and a wise master of art among the Licentiates. Now the third question was for to win the victory, and because I had waded so well out of two of them, the Rector thought that in the third I would be graveled. Wherefore he willed me to satisfy him in the third question: whereat I answered him very readily, that I would do so, and that not only to his third, but to as many as he would propound between that and the next day. Then he asked me, where the end of the world is? What Philosophers are these said I unto myself? for seeing that I never went about the whole world, how can I answer him? But if he had asked me the end of the water, I could have answered him somewhat better. Yet I answered unto his question, and said it to be in the same place, wherein we then were, and if he measured it he should certainly find it to be so, offering if it were not true, that they should esteem and account me unworthy to enter into any College, he perceiving himself shamed by my answers, and that still thinking to give a good check, he received an ill mate, put me the fourth question very boldly, ask me how far the earth is from heaven. Your worship might then have seen me hake and spit, thinking how to answer, for I was almost at a non plus, because he knew very well, that I never went any such way, if he had asked me what manner of life the Tonnies use, and what language they speak, I could have given better reason for it, yet I was not therewith altogether grounded, but answered him, that heaven is very near unto the earth, for that the songs that men sing here upon earth, are heard up into heaven, how soughtly soever men sing or speak, which if he would not believe, I had him go up into heaven, and I would sing here below very soughtly, and if he did not hear it, he should condemn me for a fool. I assure your worship, that at the same answer you might have seen the Rector at such an exigent, that ceasing to propound any more questions, he left off, referring the rest unto others: but when they saw him thus foiled, there was not one of them that durst begin, but all leaving their places, said and affirmed my answers to be most excellent. Whereat I never saw myself to be so much honoured among men, nor so much Signiored here, and Signiored there, so that Lazarus his honour increased daily: which was partly the more, because of the apparel the good Duke gave me, for if it had not been for them, those long gowned fellows would have made no more account of me, than I did of the Tonnyes in the sea, although I dissembled. But then they all came unto me, some commending me for my prompt and witty answers, and others being glad to see and hear me speak. Whereby (this my great ability being seen) the name of Lazarus was in every man's mouth, and I walked through the City with more buzzing and noise, than I did among the Tonnyes. My hosts bade me to supher with them, and I was as willing to go, although I seemed to refuse them at the first, making as though I were bidden by others: and to conclude we supped, I need not tell you with what, because it was a Licenciates supper, after their manner, although I perceived very well that the supper was prepared by changing of books, and yet it was good enough. After we had supped, and the cloth taken away, there was a pair of cards laid on the board for a collation, which was a daily custom, and surely I was better learned in them, than in the disputations of the Rector. At the last money began to be laid upon the board, which I desired to see: and they as being very nimble in that art, knew how to use a thousand shifts and flights to compass me in, I had almost lost all my money, for that for a while it went but crossly with me, but at the last I handled the matter so well, that they paid for all, and for the supper likewise, and I put fifty royals of plate in my purse that I got among them. I would wish ye to beware of him that hath been a signor among the Tonnies. Ever after they would take heed of Lazaro, and I to dispatch myself away, prayed them to speak somewhat unto me in Tonnyes' language: if not they could not understand me.  
But after that, fearing lest they should offer me any injury, and because no occasion might be had, I departed from them, thinking that I could not always have good fortune at play. So I determined to return home again, making myself merry with the fifty rials I had gotten, and somewhat more withal, which for their credits I will not presently rehearse: and coming to my house, I found all well there, only that there wanted money. Then I called to mind the Dollars that lie hidden in the sea, and therewith I began to be sad, and thought with myself, that if I might speed as well as I did in Salamanca, I would set up a school in Toledo, and though it were only to teach the Tonnies' language which I think no man but would desire to study it. But thinking better upon the matter, I saw there was nothing to be gotten, because it would be no profit to any man, wherewith I left off my devise, although I could have been well content to have had the fame, to be the founder of a University in so noble a City, and the inventor of a new language never known before among men. Hitherto I have showed you the course of my life, since the voyage of Argel, what more shall happen, as time serveth, your worship shallbe certified thereof. In the mean time, I rest wholly at your commandment and service.  
Yours, Lazaro de Tormes   
FINIS.