ZELAUTO. THE FOVNtaine of Fame. Erected in an Orchard of Amorous Adventures. Containing A Delicate Disputation, gallantly discoursed between two noble Gentlemen of italy. Given for a friendly entertainment to Euphues, at his late arrival into England. By A. M. Servant to the Right Honourable the Earl of Oxenford.  
Honos alit Artes.  
¶ Imprinted at London by john Charlewood. 1580.   


VERO NIHIL VERIUS    

To the Right Honourable, his singular good Lord and Master, Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxenford, Viscount Bulbeck, Lord Sandford, and of Badelesmere, and Lord high Chamberlain of England. Anthony Monday, wisheth all happiness in this Honourable estate, and after death eternal life.  
AFter that the English Prince (Right Honourable and my very good Lord) had taken view of the seemly Portraiture of Gridonia, her tender Infant lying by her, and leading two Lions in her hand: he presently left the Court, and took himself to travail. When the princely Primaleon, heard pronounced before his famous father the Emperor of Constantinople, the sorrowful Letters sent by the Lady of the Lake, how his best beloved brother was lost in the unfortunate Forest of England: he abandoned all his Courtly delights, and never ceased wandering, till he became prisoner in the same place. So my simple self (Right Honourable) having sufficiently seen the rare virtues of your noble mind, the heroical qualities of your prudent person: thought, though ability were inferior to gratify with some gift, yet good will was ample to bestow with the best. When all the brave Gallants and worthy Gentlemen in Room, presented unto the Emperor jewels and gifts of great value and estimation: a poor Citizen amongst them all brought a handful of Flowers, and offered them to the Emperor, the which he received graciously and with great affection, and gave him a great reward. Why (quoth one of the Gentlemen) how durst thou presume to give so poor a present, to so puissant a person? Why (quoth the Citizen) how durst they be so bold to give such great gifts? Quoth the Gentleman, they are of great credit, and beside, their gifts worthy the receiving. And I am poor (quoth the Citizen) and therefore I give such a mean gift, yet hath it been gratefully accepted: And although they descend of such noble Lineages: yet do they own dutiful allegiance unto the Emperor, and as poor as I am, I bear him as true a heart as the best: Even so my poor gift hath been as faithfully delivered: as the richest jewel that was by them presented.  
And lo Right Honourable, among such expert heads, such pregnant inventions, and such commendable writers, as prefer to your seemly self, works worthy of eternal memory: A simple Soul, (more emboldened on your clemency, than any action whatsoever he is able to make manifest) presumeth to present you with such unpullished practices: as his simple skill is able to comprehend. Yet thus much I am to assure your Honour, that among all them which own you dutiful service, and among all the brave Books which have been bestowed: these my little labours contain so much faithful zeal to your welfare, as others whatsoever, I speak without any exception. But least that your Honour should deem I forge my tale on flattery, and that I utter with my mouth, my heart thinketh not: I wish for the trial of my trustiness, what reasonable affairs your Honour can best devise, so shall your mind be delivered from doubt: and myself rid of any such reproach. But as the puissantest Prince is not void of enemies, the gallantest Champion free from foes, and the most honest liver without some backbiters: even so the bravest Books hath many malicious judgements, and the wisest writers not without rash reports. If then (Right Honourable) the most famous are found fault withal, the cuningest controlled, & the promptest wits reproached by spiteful speeches: how dare so rude a writer as I, seem to set forth so mean a matter, so weak a work, and so skilless a style? When the learned are deluded: I must needs be mocked, and when the skilfullest are scorned: I must needs be derided: But yet I remember, the wise will not reprehend rashly, the learned condemn so lightly, nor the courteous misconstrue the good intent of the writer: But only such as Aesop's Dog, that brags but dares not bite, hid in a hole and dare not show their heads, against all such, the countenance of your Honour is sufficient to contend, which makes me not fear the force of their envy. The Chirurgeon more doubteth the hidden Fistule: then the wide wound, the worthiest warrior more feareth the secret assault: than the boldest battle, A little hook taketh a great Fish, a little wind falleth down big fruit, a small spark kindleth to a great fire, a little stone may make a tall man stumble, & a small wound kill a puissant person: Even so the hidden enemy may sooner harm a man: then when he trieth his quarrel face to face, and the least report of a slaundrous tongue (being lightly believed) may discredit him to his utter undoing. But for my part I fear not, let them prate at their pleasure, & talk till their tongues ache, your Honour to please, is the chief of my choice, your good will to gain is my wished reward: which shallbe more welcome than Croesus' abundance, and more heartily accepted then any worldly wealth. The last part of this work remaineth unfinished, the which for brevity of time, and speediness in the Imprinting: I was constrained to permit till more limited leisure. Desiring your Honour to accept this in mean time, as a sign and token of my dutiful goodwill. Not long it will be before the rest be finished and the renowned Palmerin of England with all speed shall be sent you. Thus praying for your prosperity, and the increase of your Honourable dignity: I commend your worthy state to the heavenly eternity.  
Your Honour's most dutiful servant at all assays. Antony Monday.   

¶ To the well disposed Reader.  
I May be deemed (courteous Reader) more wanton than wise, and more curious than circumspect: in naming my book by such a vain glorious title, for some will suppose here are rare exploits of martial minds to be seen: which when they have proved, they find it to faint. Othersome will desire for Venus' dainty dalliances: but juno dealeth so justly in this cause, that their also they miss their mark. Then how (will some say) can Fame be so furnished: and both of these absent? the matter (say I) shall make manifest what I have attempted: and then if I be found faulty, I will stand to your gentle judgements. That man is very wise that never offendeth in folly, that man is very valiant that never meets with his match, and that man is very circumspect that never talketh awry, the righteous man offendeth seven times a day: then needs must the negligent be found very faulty. It is a good horse that never stumbleth, and he a severe servant that never displeaseth his master, then bear with my rudeness if I chance to offend you: my good will did labour in hope for to please you.  
Again, some will be inquisitive, why I am so willing to welcome Euphues into England? he being so excellent: and myself so simple? If Euphues so wisely doth wish you beware, and to prevent the perils that heedless heads may have, wishing youth likewise to frame their fancies so fit, that no crooked chances do happen to harm them: Then like that Lily whose sent it so sweet, and favour his friend who wisheth your welfare. And although my wit be so weak: that I cannot welcome as I would, and my skill to simple to gratify so gentle a guest: I trust my good will shall plead me a pardon, & my honest intent be nothing misliked. Thus hoping to have your courteous consents, which is the reward I chiefest require, I wish my works may prove as profitable to you in the reading: as they were delightful to me in the writing.  
Your friend to command A. Monday.   

A delicate Disputation gallantly discoursed between two noble Gentlemen of Italy. The Argument.  
NOt long since over the famous and stupendious City of Venice, governed Gonzalo Guicciardo, elected Duke by the most worthy Orlando Fiorentino. This aforesaid Gonzalo, (renowned for his princely government, obeyed for his singular wisdom, praised for his politic suppressing of proud usurping enemies, and honoured for his humility to his subjects in general) was not only accounted as a second Mutio among his friends and familyars, but even among his very enemies was also esteemed as a prince worthy of eternal memory. And nature the more to aggravate his joys in his hoary hairs: gave him a Son called Zelauto, whose singular humanity, whose puissance in feats of arms, whose dexterity in wit, and whose comely shape in parsonage, caused him through all Venice to be greatly accounted of.  
This gallant youth Zelauto (more desirous to advance his fame by travelling strange countries: then to lead his lingering life still in the court of his famous father) one day by chance took courage to open the hidden thoughts which long encumbered his careful breast, and having espied his father at such convenient leisure, as served best for his avail, yielding his obeisance as duty beseemed, entered into this discourse.  
If (Right worthy and renowned Father) nature had adorned me with such rare and excellent qualities, as might procure an hearts ease and joy unto your princely estate: then would duty cause me to keep my mind in silence, and fear (of displeasing your aged heart) bid me restrain my vowed attempt. But sith I am destitute of that which my heart desireth, & willing to gain the same by painful industry: I hope I shall purchase no ill will of your person, nor displease the minds of your subjects in general. First weigh and consider by your gracious advisement, that a youthful mind more desireth the fragrant fields: then the hidden house, Custom confesseth, yea, and law of Nature alloweth, that it is more permanent to a princely courage, to seek the renowned mansion, of the most illustrious and sacred Lady Fame: then to drown his youthful days in gulfs of gaping grief, in silent sorrows, in vain thoughts and cogitations, and also in trifling and idle exercises, which maketh him more prone unto vice then virtue, more apt unto lewdness: then contented living, yea, maketh him so frivolous and fantastical, that nothing but libidinous thoughts, beastly behaviour, is his whole exercise. For then every blazing beam, and every sugared countenance of a woman allureth him, that floating on the Seas of foolish fancy, and having abid one lusty gale of wind, wherewith the Bark of his body, is beaten against the Rocks of his ladies looks, than the poor patient falleth into so extreme an ecstasy, that one word will kill him, and an other revive him. Thus is he enclosed amid these subtle snares, while in the warlike field he might enjoy his liberty, and their win fame which should last eternally. These and such like crabbed conceits (dear Father) urgeth me to crave your leave and licence, that I may a while visit strange Countries, In which time, I doubt not but to achieve such exploits, that at my return it will be triple joy to your Princely ears to hear them recounted.  
Son Zelauto (answered the Duke) this your discourse is both commendable, and allowable, for I like well of your intent, and with all my heart give consent that for a limited time you shall seek adventures, which time shall amount unto vi years, and on my blessing I charge thee, not to break that appointed time. In the mean while, if God call me (as my life is uncertain) I frankly & freely give thee all is mine. Wherefore look well to thyself, that good report may be heard of thee, which unto me will be great contentation. But now as touching what aid and assistance thou wilt have with thee: speak, and it shall be granted. Good Father (answered Zelauto) none but only one to bear me company, which I know will be sufficient. Well (quoth the Duke) receive here my blessing, this portion of money, and this knight to bear thee company. And I pray God in all thy ways to guide and protect thee, and so you may departed when you please.  
Zelauto accompanied with his knight, departed from the Court of his famous Father, and took shipping to go unto Naples, from thence, he travailed unto Valentia in Spain, and chancing into the company of certain English merchants, who in the Latin tongue told him the happy estate of England, & how a worthy Princes governed their common weal, and all such things as could not be more praised than they deserved. The which Zelauto hearing, craved of them that he might sail with them into England, and he would liberally reward them. They being contented, and having laden their Ships with such necessaries as they best desired: within few days hoist sails, and away they went.  
This young youth Zelauto being come into England, and seen the rare and virtuous usage of the illustrious and thrice renowned Princes, with the great honour and favour which he obtained among her worthy Lords: purposed to stay still there. But yet remembering, that although he saw one place: many others were as yet unseen, after a year expired, he took shipping into Persia, and so departed. In process of time he had visited many strange Countries, sustained many and wonderful injuries among the Turks, which after shall be declared. And returning homeward, happened on the borders of Sicily, where Fortune was favourable unto him: that unawares he happened on the cave of a valiant Knight, who was a Christian, and having committed an heinous offence: fled out of his own Country, and inhabited there in a silent Cell, among the woods. This Knight being named Astraepho, and hearing the trampling of one about his den: took his weapons, and came forth. He being greatly abashed at the sight of Zelauto, for that in ten years space he neither saw man nor woman: but had lived there a savage life: forgetting all points of humanity said. What varlet, art thou come to seek my death? thou art welcome, and therewith all struck at Zelauto, who alas through tediousness of travel, and long being without any sustenance: was constrained to yield, and falling on his knees submitted himself to his mercy, which Astraepho seeing, said as hereafter followeth.   

The Fountain of Fame, distiling his dainty drops, in an Orchard of Amorous Adventures.  
 

Astraepho, having conquered Zelauto, saith.  
WHat so sudden and strange Metamorphosis is this? Art thou a Knight, that professest thyself a Soldier under God Mars his Ensign: and so soon conquered? What dost thou think that this thy submission, shall hinder me of my pretended purpose? Thy death it is I seek, and more honour shall I obtain by the slaughter of such a wretch: then to let thee live any longer time.  Zelauto. 
Most worthy sir, if ever any jot of clemency consisted in your valiant breast: then respect I crave, the distressed case of your poor vassaill. And marvel not though in force I am not able to resist against you, for that the great miseries which I have sustained in these my tedious travails, hath quite bereaved me of my manly might.  Astraepho. 

The Lion doth easily conquer his yielding prey.  A bad excuse (say they) is better than none at all, you plead now simplicity, through the defect of your valiancy, and by such sophistical syllogisms, to beguile me craftily, no, no, poor wretch, hard was thy hap to light in his hands: who seeketh the subversion of thy state, and to cause thee yéeld● thy neck to the rigour of his manly might. Long delays need not, differ not with dalliance, for I am bend to thy utter ruin.  Zelauto. 

Where as Fortune is so adverse, small hope is to be had.  Small hope hath the seely Lamb, in the ravening laws of the greedy Wolf, to escape with life, little comfort hath the pensive prisoner at the point of death, to shun so hard a lot. So I (poor soul) in the hands of a Tyrant (who more regardeth blood, than bounty, more respecteth death then delivery, and more vaunteth of villainy, than any valiancy) what succour can I have in this my sorrow? what hope in this my so hard hap, to crave life it availeth not, to desire a respite it booteth not, and to strive against the stream, were but a presuming boldness, if I wish for death I gain it, if I wish for life, I lose it. What shall betide thee poor distressed Zelauto? hap weal or woe, hap life or death, hap bliss or bale: I will adventure by fair words to entreat him, 
Zelauto at last by fair words, doth seek to win favour.  & so it may happen to stay his rigour. Good sir, if ever humanity harboured in that noble breast, or if ever pity pronounced her puissance on your princely person: then respect (I pray) the disstressed case of your conquered captive. Small honour shall you have by my death, & no Fame to vaunt on a naked man. My life can little pleasure you, and my death less, therefore seek not to shed his blood, who at your will & pleasure voweth both heart and hand at your courteous commandment.  Astraepho. 
In deed I confess, 
After many cloudy showers▪ yet shineth a fair day.  that small honour is his due that vaunts on so prostrate a prey, & therefore somewhat hath thy words satisfied my former desire, for in deed, a strange and wonderful sight it is to me, to see a man that have seen none these ten years passed, therefore pardon what is spoken, there resteth the greater amends to be made.  Zelauto. 
Sir, 
Zelauto right glad of his delivery, yieldeth thanks.  more bound unto you in duty, than ever I am able to perform: I yield you all thanks possible that resteth in so poor a person, & I doubt not but that God hath appointed all at the best, for these five years & more have I visited strange countries: and never yet did I happen on any such adventure.  Astraepho. 
And have you been a Traveller sir? then unfold I pray you what hath been the mishaps, that the frowning Fates unto you hath allotted, and first tell I pray you, of what soil, what Parentage and kindred you are of, and what is your name.  Zelauto. 
Sir, as necessity hath no law, so need at this present urgeth me to speak. In this your Cave (I am sure) you are not destitute of victuals, the which I want, wherefore if it shall please you, to refresh his hunger, who is ready to faint: I will discourse unto you afterward my whole adventures at large.  Astraepho. 
Alas sir, if such simple fare as I have may seem to suffice your hunger: come near, and we will go to dinner, and afterward will we discourse of such matters (as perchance) may be profitable to both.  Zelauto. 
With right good will sir, & a thousand thanks for your courtesy, extended unto me in this my unlooked for mishap. And it may so fortune, that after our conference had together: we may with our pleasant talk well content each other.  Astraepho. 
Well sir, approach this my homely Mansion, and I desire you to accept the goodwill of your poor host.   

Astraepho and Zelauto goeth to dinner, and their talk after they had well refreshed themselves.  
 Astraepho. 

Honest talk passeth away the time pleasantly.  NOw Sir, how like you of your homely entertainment? where no better is, bad may suffice, and to a contented mind nothing is prejudicial. You see how poor folks are content with pottage, Rich men may go to dinner when they will, and poor men when they may.  Zelauto. 
Sir, 
A friendly gratulation for courtesy received.  he that will look a given Horse in the mouth: is unworthy of the gift, your fare hath sufficed me, and you have vanquished him, who would have murdered me. What dainty delicates is to be looked for in desert places? it sufficeth the Courts of Princes to have their delicate fare, and to poor travelers, the homeliest dish is welcome, they look for no after service, & in steed of sauce, they use their hungry appetite, 
Ne ob divitias laudaris virum indignum.  we sit not to have our Table taken up, we chop at noon, and chew it soon. They in their superfluity, we in our want. They in their prodigality, we spare for an after extremity. Who more covetous than they, that have all at their pleasure? and who more friendly than they, that have a little, and impart thereof to their friends. They spend, we spare, they use excess, and we hardness. And therefore saith Tully: 
We ought to have great respect, 
Cicero in partitionibus Orat.   
lest that the hidden vice:  
That doth upon the virtues tend,  
doth slily us entice.   The elder Cato also upon this saith. 
Cato Senior.  
By two things I increase my wealth,  
by tilling of my ground:  
The other by good husbandry,  
that I therein have found.  
For why, the one abundance brings,  
as much as heart can choose:  
The other doth me wisely teach,  
how I the same should use.  
Thus sir may you see how sparing is commended: and now somewhat will I speak as concerning inordinate spending, and lascivious excess, which hath the persons that used it, greatly abused.  
Lucullus, 
Lucullus.  for his sumptuous buildings, and his inordinate expenses, thought among the Romans to be magnified, for that he thought to excel all his predecessors. 
Pompey.  But Pompey hearing thereof, and greatly desirous to see if all were as the common brute did blaze it abroad: journeyed until he came unto Lucullus Mansion place, where seeing that the thing itself excelled the common report, in derision said unto Lucullus.  

These gay and gorgeous buildings here,  

An excellent privy nip given unto Lucullus.  be set with Stories brave:  
And open windows, that the air,  
free entrance in may have.  
For Summer they delightful are,  
and gallant to behold:  
But when that Hiems doth approach,  
her blasts will make you cold.   
Truly, in my opinion, his words stood with great reason, and aught also greatly to be esteemed of, for fancy is so fickle, that each trifling toy (though it be not profitable, if it be pleasant) is now a days most desired. As Lucullus, he was all in his prodigality, but nothing regarded in the end the misery. 
Aesculapius' son to Apollo.  Farther we read, how Apollo's son Aesculapius, for his prodigal mind, & unsatiable desire of riches: was cast into the bottomless Limbo, among the Fiends, and Devils of hell. And divers other (which were too tedious to rehearse) which got their goods wickedly, and spend it laciviously. And therefore I will say with Tully. 

Tully.  Malè parta, malè dilabuntur.   

Zelauto doth return to give his friend thanks for his lyberalyty.  But now Sir, returning to our contented feast passed, for my part, I am to yield a thousand thanks, and to show you the like courtesy if I come in place where ability shall serve me, And wish you not to think, but as it was liberally and courteously bestowed: so was it gratefully and heartily accepted. And now may I well say, that he which never tasteth necessity: knoweth not what want is. 
Need hath no law, necessity breaketh stone Walls.  For whiles I tasted on our Courtly iunckets, I never thought I should have been driven so near, but now, this state contenteth me far better than my former, which was nothing but vanity.  Astraepho. 
Sir, this your pleasant discourse, is both pithy and profitable, & savoureth of the sense which proveth perfect in the conclusion. 
A promise made, may always be claimed for a due debt.  But now as touching our talk before dinner, I must not forget your promise, for that you said, I should understand the sum of your miseries, your adventures happened in travail, your name, Country, & parentage, which told: I shall declare the better some of my strange adventures.  
 Zelauto. 

Zelauto accordeth to his friendly request,  Indeed sir, promise is due debt we say, and according to promise, I will unfold that which is both strange, & lamentable, wherefore give me leave I desire you, & you shall hear, the perilous Pilgrimage which I poor soul have passed.  


Zelauto telleth his first travails.  
Gonzalo Guiciardo, Duke of Venice.   first sir, as concerning my Country, Parentage and name: I give you to understand, that I am son to the worthy Gonzalo Guiciardo, who is Duke of Venice, and by name I hight Zelauto. Long time had I sojourned in the Court of my noble Father, not knowing the use and order of foreign Countries, whereunto my mind was addicted, wherefore at the last, I ventured boldly, and told my Father what in heart I had attempted: the which he well liking of: gave his consent, 
His traveling to Naples. Banditie, called Outlaws, do wound Zelauto.  and so I and an other Knight (whom my Father gave me for companion) travailed toward Naples, and in our travail: we met with certain Outlaws, whom we call Banditie.  
These cruel fellows set upon me, wounded me very sore, slew my Companion, despoiled of my apparel and money, leaving me for dead. But God more merciful than these Villains were tyrannical, 
His hard escaping to Naples.  would not suffer me to perish in their hands, but they (being gone) gave me the power to creep on all four to Naples. When I was come thither: I knew not what to do, because I was fréendlesse, moneyless, and despoiled out of my Garments. 
His bold entrance into an Inn.  At last, having espied an Osteria: I boldly entered, putting myself in the hands of God, to whom I referred the paying of my charges.   

Hear Zelauto telleth what happened to him in the Osteria, and what friendship he found with Madonna Ursula, Madonna della Casa.  

Madonna Ursula, the Mistress of the house.  BEing come to this Osteria, I entered, and the first person that I saw, was the Misteresse of the house, who was named Madonna Ursula, a very proper, pleasant, kind & courteous Gentlewoman. At my coming in, 
Her friendly entertainment.  you are welcome Gentleman (quoth she) Is it your will I pray you to have lodging? I answered, yea surely, until such time as my wounds be healed, and myself better refreshed. With that quoth she to one of her maidens. 
Magarita la donizela.  Margarita, conduct this Gentleman to the best Chamber, make him a good fire, and carry up with you a Boccall of win and a manchet, in the mean while, will I make ready his supper. 
A friendly and gentle offer.  And Gentleman (quoth she) what thing so ever it be that you want: call for, and if it be to be gotten in Naples for love or money, you shall have it. Here was yet good entertainment, after so hard mishaps, my grief and sorrow was not so great before, for the loss of my companion, my money & apparel: but her cheerful words did as much revive my heart. And so yielding her great thanks I went up into my Chamber, where against my coming, I found a very great fire, my Chair ready set for me to sit down with my Cushion, & my boots pulled of, warm Pantofles brought unto me, 

Madonna Ursula her return to Zelauto.  
An Italian courtesy.  
She commandeth her maid to departed, and beginneth her talk.   and a clean kertcher put on my head. So having sitten there about the space of half an hour: up came the mistresses of the house, who taking a glass, fille● it with Wine, and came unto me saying. Sir (Per licentia vostra) I salute you. So causing an other glass to be filled with wine: she gave it me, whom I pledged as courteously as I could. Then took she an other Chair, & sat down by me, commanding her maiden servant (who attended there) to give place, who making courtesy to me and her mistresses, departed. Then began she to talk with me in this order as followeth.   

The talk that the Mistress of the house had with Zelauto.  
GEntleman, as I very well esteem of your courteous and civil demeanour: 
Madonna Ursula her talk.  so am I desirous to know of whence you are, and what misfortunes hath happened unto you, that you are so grievously wounded. Pardon me I pray you, if I demand the thing which you are not willing to utter, and also because on so sudden acquaintance, I enterprise to question with you: 
Zelauto his reply.  Gentlewoman (quoth I) the good opinion, and great liking that you have of me, is as yet undeserved, and as yet you have seen no such civility in me as deserveth to be commended. But yet I am to yield you thanks for your good liking. 
A feigned excuse to colour the matter.  And as touching my mishaps, and this strange adventure which hath happened, and if you please to attend the discourse: I will tell you all. I am of Padua, and there my parents dwell, and being minded to see the use of other Countries: I left my Parents, being well stored with money, and a Gentleman also which bore me company.  
Being come here into the kingdom: among the woods we encountered with certain Banditie, who set upon us, slew my companion, left me for dead, and spoiled me of all my money and apparel. So God helping me: I have hardly got hither with my life.  
Thus have you known some part of my mishaps, 
Her encouragement given a fresh to Zelauto  now consider thereof by your good construction. Sir (quoth she) your hap hath been hard, and little do your Parents know of this your sudden adversity. Be not discouraged therefore, here shall you abide until such time as your wounds are healed, and that you have perfectly recovered your health, and beside what money you want: you shallbe well provided thereof. Therefore let not this mishap dismay you, a friend in necessity: is better than a hundred in prosperity. 
Signior Giovanni Martino, a merchant in Naples.  But are you not acquainted with any here in Naples? Yes (quoth I) I have letters to Signior Giovanni Martino, from my Father, for the recovery of money, as now I stand in need thereof.  
Well Sir (quoth she) pardon my boldness I pray you, & first try your friend, 
Madonna Ursula her courteous promise.  & if he fail: you know where to speed of money, & of a greater matter if need require, In the mean time, I will see how near your supper is ready, & will come again and bear you company. How like you now Sir of the friendly entertainment that I obtained at this Gentlewoman's hand, and also of her proffered courtesy?  Astraepho. 
Certainly Zelauto, 
Astraepho telleth his judgement on this matter.  you are much bound unto that Gentlewoman, for in my opinion, you might have gone to twenty osteria's in Naples and not have found the like friendship. But proceed I pray you, how sped you with your friend for your money, and how did your hosts deal with you?  Zelauto. 
You shall hear Sir. 

Zelauto proceedeth in his discourse.  
She returneth demanding if he will go to supper.   After she was departed out of the Chamber, there came up two modest Damsels, and they covered the table. At last came she up again. Sir (quoth she) do you not think it long before you go to supper? No (quoth I) in good time yet, you need not make such haste. Well Sir (quoth she) anon here will a Surgeon come, who shall dress your wounds, and look unto you till you be perfectly healed.  

They go to supper.  Then was our Supper brought up very orderly, and she brought me water to wash my hands. And after I had washed I sat down, & she also, but concerning what good cheer we had: I need not make report. For all things was in as good order, and aswell to my contentation: as ever it was in my Father's Court.  


She proffereth to play with Zelauto.  
A Chirurgeon cometh and dresseth his wounds.   After Supper (quoth she) Sir but that you are so overcharged with travel, and faint with your wounds I would play a game or two with you at the Primero. But we will refer that till to morrow at night. Then came in the Chirurgeon and he dressed my wounds, and water was brought to wash my feet, my Bed was warmed, and so I went and laid me down to take my rest.   

¶ In the morning Zelauto sendeth for Signior Giovani Martino, of whom he should receive money, and how he sped and of his farther friendship that he had with Madonna Ursula.  
Now when I had well and sufficiently reposed myself all night, and in the morning finding myself more strong and forcible, 
In the morning Madonna Ursula cometh to see Zelauto  then before I was: I thought to have risen, But up came Mistress Ursula again, and coming to my Bed side, she said. Gentleman, have you taken quiet rest this night or no? Yes surely Mistress (quoth I) I never slept so sound in all my life before, and credit me, I find myself very well amended. Wherefore now I will rise. No not yet Sir (quoth she) you shall first make your Collation in bed, with such things as I have ordained, and have your wounds dressed again: 
They fall in talk again.  and then shall you rise. I thank you good Mistress Ursula (quoth I) and surely it seemeth very strange unto me, that on a stranger you should bestow such courtesy? Sir (quoth she) on the virtuous and well disposed, no one can bestow courtesy sufficient. As for my part, to such Gentlemen, as upon some occasion are fallen into want & necessity: I think it a great point of humanity, to bestow on them friendly hospitality. And therefore I follow the mind of Lactantius, 
Lactantius de vero cultu. Chap. 12. Inholders & Taverners for commodity.  who saith, there is a kind of hospitality, which is used for a private gain and secret commodity, and for no love favour nor friendship at all. Of which sort I am none, I refer that to common Inholders, and those tippling Taverners. Let them entertain for their commodity, and I for courtesy. I remember how Caesar doth commend in his Commentaries, the great favour & friendship that the Germans showed to strangers. 
Caesar in his Commentaries commendeth the Germans. Abraham Genesis. Sodom and Gomorra. Rahab delivered from death for the same.  For not only would they defend them from their enemies: but also entertain them with meat, drink, clothing & lodging. The Scripture also maketh mention, how Abraham, received into his house (as he thought) men, but he received God himself. Lot also received Angels in the shape of men into his house. Wherefore for his hospitality Lot escaped the fire of Sodom & Gomorra. Rahab, for the same likewise, with all hers was preserved from the terror of death.  
And what saith Saint Ambrose? Who can tell if we welcome Christ or no, 

S. Ambrose as touching the entertainment of strangers.  
Zelauto answereth her learned discourse.   when we give friendly entertainment to strangers? Therefore sir seem not to be offended I pray you, though I preach on this fashion, for both love, duty, faith and charity, doth bind me to welcome you hither courteously. Alas good Mistress (quoth I) I see well your great courtesy, but I know not how to requite the same. Sir (quoth she) what you are not able to do: God will do for you, and it is sufficient for me to receive thanks at your hands, for greater is my reward in heaven. And with that she departed to fetch me my breakfast. Now sir, tell me I pray you, if the memory of this rare and virtuous woman is not worthy to be rehearsed?  Astraepho. 

Astraepho unfoldeth his judgement again.  Now credit me Zelauto, she surpasseth all that ever I heard of, both for promptness of wit, virtue of the mind, and excellency in qualities. But I pray you could she repeat these Authors whereof you have shown, so readily?  Zelauto. 
Yea Sir, and a great many more, which I am not able to rehearse. For surely the rare excellency that I did behold in her: made me so amazed, that I could not attend all her discourses.  Astraepho. 

Astraepho desireth to hear more of this matter.  Now for God's sake proceed, and let me hear more of this: for surely she is worthy of eternal remembrance, in my judgement.  

Zelauto now goeth to break fast.  Then came up two Damsels, the one brought a pretty little table covered, and set it on the Bed's side, and the other brought such necessaries as did belong to that we went about. Then came she herself, and brought me such meat, as I never did eat the like before: and what other cheer was there I refer that to your judgement. But then (quoth she) to one of her Damsels. Go and fetch me my Lute, and I will recreate this Gentleman with a pleasant song, 
She sendeth for her Lute.  the copy whereof she gave me, and for a need I could rehearse it.  Astraepho. 

Astraepho desireth to hear her song.  Now good Zelauto let me hear it, for I am sure it is worthy the rehearsal.  Zelauto. 
Since you are so desirous: you shall, wherefore attend it diligently.  

¶ The Song which mistresses Ursula sung to her Lute, to Zelauto.  

Zelauto rehearseth it  AS Love is cause of joy,  
So Love procureth care:  
As Love doth end annoy,  
So Love doth cause despair▪  
But yet I oft heard say,  
and wise men like did give:  
That no one at this day,  
without a love can live.  
And think you I, will love defy:  
No, no, I love, until I die.   

Love knits the sacred knot,  
Love heart and hand doth bind:  
Love will not shrink one jot,  
but Love doth keep his kind.  
Love maketh friends of foes,  
love stays the common wealth:  
Love doth exile all woes,  
that would impair our health.  
Since love doth men and monsters move:  
What man so fond will love disprove?   

Love keeps the happy peace,  
Love doth all strife allay:  
Love sendeth rich increase,  
Love keepeth wars away.  
Love of itself is all,  
Love hath no fellow mate:  
Love causeth me, and shall,  
Love those, that love my state.  
Then love will I, until I die:  
And all fond Love I will defy.  
FINIS.   Zelauto. 
How like you now Sir of her Song? is it not both pithy and excellent, doth it not bear a singular and great underding withal?  Astraepho. 
If I should speak all I think, you would hardly believe me, 
Astraepho amazed at her singularity knoweth not what to say.  for surely, her song containeth great and learned points of wisdom, and requireth a more expert and learned head than mine to define thereon: And certainly it amazeth me to hear that such excellency should remain in a woman. But I pray you proceed, and let me hear more of this matter?  Zelauto. 
After she had ended her song: Quoth she, Gentleman I trust you are not ignorant of the meaning of my Song, for perhaps you might allege some points of lewdness or lightness, 
Zelauto goeth on with his tale.  that a woman should so much commend Love, but my intent therefore I refer to your good construction. And now sir since you have refreshed yourself: let the Chirurgeon use his cunning to your wounds: and in the mean while, 
The Chirurgeon cometh and dresseth him again.  I will send for Signior Giovanni Martino, and then we shall see what he will say to you. I thank you good Mistress Ursula (quoth I) and I pray you let him be sent for.  
So after that the Chirurgeon had dressed me and was departed: 
The coming in of Signior Giovanni Martino.  in came Signior Giovanni Martino. Who seeing me, kneeled down and kissed my hand, the which Madonna Ursula, marveled at. Then quoth I to him in his ear, I pray do not use any such courtesy whereby I may be known, for because I would not be known to any, but if they demand of you who I am: say that I am of Padua. Well sir (quoth he) your mind shallbe fulfilled in all things.  
Then I gave him Letters, which when he had read▪ he departed & brought me seven hundred Crowns, saying, spend these whiles you are here, and at your departure you shall have more.  
Then spoke Madonna Ursula to him. Sir, do you know this Gentleman. Yea forsooth (quoth he) his Parents are of great credit in Padua, wherefore I pray you let him want nothing. Well sir (quoth she) he hath wanted nothing yet, nor shall not, if you had not spoken. But now dinner is ready, and I will desire you to bear him company: Yes (quoth he) that I shall, willingly.  
Well sir, to be short, there had I passed ten or twelve days, & was perfect whole, 
Zelauto would needs departed from his hosts. Her sorrow for his departure.  and then I would needs departed. Which when she saw, she was very sorry and pensive. But yet (quoth she) although Sir you do departed: I hope if it be your Fortune to journey this way again homeward, you will take up your homely lodging here. And in token that you shall remember me: take here this jewel, and wear it I desire you for my sake.  
I yielded her a thousand thanks, recompensed her servants, paid my charges. So on the morrow morning I departed, accompanied with a Gentleman, who was an especial friend unto Signior Giovanni Martino. 
Zelauto departeth from Naples.  And thus have you heard the whole discourse of my first travail.  Astraepho. 
Surely here hath been a gallant discourse, and worthy the memory, 

Zelauto cometh to Valentia in Spain, and travaileth with Gentlemen to Civil, from thence to Lysbone, where he happeneth on certain Enlyshe Merchants with whom he talketh as concerning their Country. Their answer.  
Zelauto goeth with the Merchants to S. Lucas, so towards England.   you are much bound in courtesy unto that Gentlewoman. And I would it were my fortune once to happen on such an hosts. But whether journeyed you then from Naples?  Zelauto. 
Sir (as I was about to tell you) in few days I arrived at Valentia in Spain, where it was my chance to meet with certain Gentlemen, who travailed unto Civil, and with them I went, there I remained & my companion three days. From thence I went to Lysbone, where as I lodged in the house of one Pedro de Barlamonte▪ There lodged also certain English merchants, whom I being very willing to talk with all: one night desired them to take part of a Supper with me. They spoke the Latin tongue very well, and so of them I questioned about the usage of their Country, & that of long time I had heard great commendation thereof: Also of a maiden Queen that swayed the Sceptre there. I asked them whether it was so or no? They answered it was, and gave me to understand so much of their Country: that I would needs, go with them into England, who in deed were very willing, and so they having ended their Merchandise: we journeyed ●o S. Lucas, and within few days I took shipping into the so famous bruited Realm of England.  
  

¶ Hear Zelauto telleth how with certain English merchants he sailed into England, and what happened unto him.  Astraepho. 
Why then you stayed but a while in Spain.  Zelauto. 
No sure, for after I and my Companion had heard of the fame of England: we could not settle our minds to stay there, but thought every day a year until we might come into England.  Astraepho. 

Astraepho requireth to know of England.  And is England so famous? I pray you declare unto me what you have seen there that deserved so great commendations.  Zelauto. 
That I shall, wherefore I desire you to give ear unto this discourse, for it is both strange and excellent.  
After as we were departed from the coast of Spain, in a three weeks space we arrived upon the coast of England, 
Zelauto came into England & landeth at Dover.  and landed at a certain haven that in their language they call Dover, the master and his mate, with two or three other of the ship bore us company into the town, where we came to an Inn (as they call them) and being set down, one of them called for drink, 
He drinketh English Beer, and marveleth at the Language.  which was such as I did never see the like before, for they call it Beer, and such a language they speak, as is both strange & wonderful, for I know not to what I should best liken it. Well said I to my companion, now we are here, what shall we do? We know not what they say, nor they can not understand us, I think it were best to hire some of these that are in the ship which speak the Latin tongue to conduct us until we come to some of our Countrymen, whereof they told us was a great many there, 
Zelauto traveth of the master for a guide.  he was very well contented, and so I desired the master that we might have one of his men to guide us, who in deed very courteously consented.  
And then he sent to his Ship for one Roberto, 
Roberto a very merry fellow appointed for a guide to Zelauto.  a very merry and pleasant fellow, and he spoke our language very well, he gave him very great charge, that he should use us well, until we came to their chief City, which they call London, and then as soon as we came thither: to bring us to some of our countrymen. So we contented the Master, got up on Horseback, and so road to London.   

Zelauto and his companion being come to London, through the means of Roberto their guide, they are brought to the house of one Signior Giulio di Pescara, who entertained them very courteously.  
OUr merry Companion, 
Zelauto is come to London to the Royal Exchange.  having brought us to London: showed us many fair and comely sights, as first he had us into their Burse, where above were so many fine Shops full of brave devices, and every body said, a mad term that they had, What lack ye, what lack ye. I marveled what they meant by it, than I asked Roberto what they said. So he told me, that they asked me what I would buy, if I would have any of their fine wares. And surely in that place were many very proper and comely Women: Then he had us, and showed us a very fine vault under the same, where there was a great many Shops likewise. So than it began to wax something toward the evening, and then he conducted us to the house of one Signior Giulio, 
Zelauto is brought to Signior Giulio di Pescara, of his Country.  a Gentleman of Pescara, where we had very gallant entertainment, and so well esteemed of, as if we had been in our own Country. This Giulio had married an English Woman, who in deed, was so gentle of nature, so comely in qualities, and so proper in parsonage, that sure me thought she excelled. Of her likewise we were very gently welcomed, and a very gallant Chamber prepared, with all things so necessary, and servants to attend on us so diligently, that sure it was not in vain that England had such excellent commendation. 
Zelauto liketh well of the service in England.  My Companion said, he was never so quiet, and so well at his heart's ease: as he was there, being but so little time there. For in deed (to say the truth) I wanted nothing, but every thing was ready at half a words speaking, and with great reverence also.  

Zelauto cometh acquainted with Gentlemen of the English Court.  To the house of this aforesaid Signior Giulio, resorted divers Gentlemen, which were of the Court of England, who showed us such courtesy, as it is unspeakable. But all this while I would not be known what I was, but told them that I was a Gentleman of Naples, and my name was Zelauto, and that I came for my pleasure to see the Country. These Gentlemen, some of them did pertain to men of great Honour, in the said Court, whom I likewise came acquainted with all. But to recount the rare and excellent modesty, the virtuous life adorned with civility, the haughty courage and Martial magnanimity, & their singular qualities in general, though I had the gallantest memory in the world, the pregnanst wit, and the rarest eloquence to depaint them: I know myself were unable to do it.  

He chanceth to see the noble Queen of England.  It was my chance within a while after I was acquainted with those worthy Lords of Honour: to come in presence where their virtuous Maiden Queen was. But credit me, her heavenly hue, her Princely parsonage, her rare Sobriety, her singular Wisdom: made me stand as one bereft of his senses. For why, before mine eyes I saw one that excelled, all the worthy Dames that ever I have read of.  Astraepho. 
But stay Zelauto, did you see that peerless Paragon? and is she so rare and excellent as you make her to be?  Zelauto. 
Oh Sir, never can my tongue give half a quarter of the praise, that is due to that rare Arabian Phoenix. Were Mars himself alive: he would stand aghast at her Heavenly behaviour. And as Timon, 
Timon.  when he drew the mournful portrait, of King Agamemnon, for the loss of his Daughter, could not set forth his face correspondent to the sorrow that is contained: 
Agamennon  left the same covered with a veil to the judgement of others. So I, because I am unable to paint forth her passing praise, according as desert deserveth: I remit her under the veil of Eternal memory, to the grave judgement of others.  Astraepho. 
What now Zelauto? why, the Goddesses & the Graces themselves, could but deserve this commendation, and I am sure she is none.  Zelauto. 
Were it possible for a Goddess to remain on the earth at this day: credit me, it were she. For thus much I will tell ye. It is not to all countries unknown, how well her Grace doth understand and speak the languages, that of herself without any interpreter: she is able to answer any Ambassador, that cometh to her Majesty. Also, it is not unknown, how her Princely Majesty made the mind of the valiant Marquis Vitelli (Ambassador sent from the King of Spain) to be marvelously moved. 
Marquis Vitelli, Ambassador of Spain.  This Vitelli, hath been known a excellent warrior, and yet the rare excellency of this Queen had almost put him clean out of conceit. That as he said himself: he was never so out of countenance before any Prince in all his life. 
Sappho, Corinna, Eriune, Praxillae Telesilla, Cleobulinae Pithogareans, Diotima, and Aspasia.   
It is in vain of the Grecians to vaunt of their Sappho, Corinna, Eriune, Praxilla, Telesilla, Cleobulina, nor yet the Pithegoreans brag of their Diotima, and Aspasia, for their lives, this is she that excelleth them all: and therefore will I say.  

O decus Anglorum virgo clarissima vivas:  
Donec terrigenis Praebebit lumina Titan.   

O Virgin Queen, the rarest gem,  
jove grant thy happy race:  
That while Dan Titan gives his light, 
Titan.   
Thou mayst enjoy thy place.   

Let all true English hearts, pronounce while they have breath:  
God save and prosper in renown, our Queen Elyzabeth.  
Vivat, vincat, regnat, Elyzabetha.   Astraepho. 
Zelauto, these your words doth aggravate an exceeding joy in my mind, and causeth me to thirst with Tantalus, 
Tantalus.  until it be my Fortune to see that happy Land, that thrice happy Princes, whom (if she be) as you make report, would cause both men and monsters to adore. But I pray you Sir proceed, and let me hear what happened unto you in that Country?  zelauto. 
Sir, after I had stayed there a while (to show this gallant Prince's pastime) certain of her worthy and famous Lords assembled in a Tournament, 
The Pageant with all languages before ●e Queen.  the bravest sight that ever I saw, & with this gallant troop, there came a Pageant as they call them, wherein were men that spoke all Languages. O sir, I am not able to speak sufficient in praise thereof.  
At an other time, there was a brave & excellent devise which went on wheels without the help of any man. 
The Pageant with Apollo, and the nine Muses.  Therein sat Apollo, with his heavenly crew of Music. Beside a number of strange devices, which are out of my remembrance. But yet I remember one thing more, which was a brave and comely Ship, brought in before her Majesty, wherein were certain of her noble Lords, and this Ship was made with a gallant devise, 
The Ship before her Ma●●stie.  that in her presence it ran upon a Rock, & was despoiled. This credit was the very bravest devise that ever I saw, and worthy of innumerable commendations.  Astraepho. 
Oh admirable Princes, whose singular virtues, moves the minds of such noble Personages, 
Astraepho falleth into admiration with himself.  by daily deeds to demonstrate, & by usual actions to acquaint her Princely estate with such miraculous motions, as you zelauto make report of.  Zelauto. 
If I were able to rehearse all that I have seen: then I know you could not choose but say yourself, that she is well worthy of far greater, if possible there might be such: as for example these things I have told you, which are yet in my remembrance may make the matter manifest, both the Pageants, and also this seemly Ship whereof I have spoken.  

In countries cause, I mount upon the Seas,  
with shivering shot to daunt my furious foe:  
It doth me good all strife for to appease,  
to keep my Land free from all foreign woe.  
God save my Prince, that keeps a Navy huge:  
In time of need to stand for her refuge.   
 Astraepho. 
Why? 
The admiration of Astraepho at the passed tale of Zelauto.  is there any Prince that can wish or desire to live in more worldly pleasure, than that famous and illustrious Queen? Or can there be more virtues resident in an earthly Creature, than her noble life maketh so ample mention of? Surely in my opinion it were unpossible: for credit me, the rare rule of her virtuous life: maketh her Land and People in such happy estate. Wherefore good Zelauto, conceal not any of this matter from me, for surely I think myself happy to come to the hearing thereof.  Zelauto. 
Since sir, 
Astraepho● earnest request, compelleth Zelauto to proceed to deeper matters.  you seem so importune on me, and that my homely Tales do so much delight you: give ear, and I will read you here one of the rarest devices that ever you heard of. Which was a comely sort of Courtiers, prepared in a Tournament to recreate the mind of their Princes & Sovereign.  Astraepho. 
Where want of sufficiency remaineth, to countervail your ever approved courtesy: accept in token thereof always at your commandment my dutiful service & loyalty, and attendance shall not want, till I have heard these discourses.   

Zelauto taketh out of his Scrip a Book, wherein he readeth a gallant devise presented in a Tournament, which he saw in England.  
FIrst sir, 
Zelauto to pleasure his friend, telleth him an excellent and brave devise done in England.  to make the matter the more plainer unto you, at the tilt met an armed Lady, with a Courtly Knight, well appointed at Arms, who menacing his manly might, as though he came to Combat, began to look about if there were any defender. The Lady not minding the invincible courage, and lofty look of the Champion: gazed upon the renowned Princes, who was there present, debating with herself in inward thoughts, the sudden adventure which had happened her, and having long looked on this sumptuous spectacle, at length with herself, fell into these words.  

The Lady being driven into a great admiration at the presence of this peerless Princess, useth her talk in this order.  WHat doth the Gods delude me? or hath the infernal ghosts enchanted me with their fond illusions? Wake I, or sleep I? See I, or see I not? What chance hath convicted me? What sudden sight hath attainted me? Is this a Goddess, or a mortal creature? If this be the seemly she, that the Trump of Fame hath so blasted abroad: if this be the second Saba, to astonish the wise Solomon? then hast thou well employed thy pains to come and see her. For Report running through the Orcades, 
The Orcacades, the golden America, the East and West India's.  the golden American country, and the rich inhabited Islands of the East and West India's, rattling in every ear this rare rumour, of a gallant and renowned Maiden Queen, that governed her Country worthily, her people peaceably, and rightly bore the title of inestimable dignity, said in this manner.  

BY West, a famous Region,  
with Sea encompassed round:  
With wealth adorned abundantly,  
as like hath not been found.  
And every thing so plentiful,  
in such good order framed:  
That this the Isle of happiness,  
by title true is named.  
There, there remains the seemlyest Queen,  
that ever nature bred:  
In virtues gifts excelling far,  
of all that we have read.  
And more than this, Diana so,  
doth rule her royal reign:  
That hitherto a Vestal pure,  
she constant doth remain.  
Adorned with wisdom worthily,  
and learning in each case:  
That Fame records her Memory,  
abroad in every place.  
Saying, the Queen of Anglia,  
the rarest gem alive:  
From all the Creatures on the earth,  
the honour doth deprive.  
Wherefore arise ye noble rout,  
that long this sight to see:  
You gallant Lords and Ladies all,  
in Court where ere you be.  
And you shall see that seemly Saint,  
whereof I tell you news:  
Whose view, the Gods, and mortal men,  
will force to stand and muse.  
FINIS.   
WAs ever so brave a brute blazed of the Imperial Alexander? Was his life so meritorious, 
The Lady doth suppose that no one deserved rightly such condign praise as this peerless Princess. The Lady doubteth whether this is the Princes or no, & at last looketh and espieth the Champion.  that it deserved such rare renown? Was puissant Pompey, ever so honoured? Or julius Caesar, so magnifically adored? Or did they all deserve half the estimation, that by title true this seemly she may claim? No sure, well may their deeds be noted, as a pattern to our eyes: But their lives shall never be registered, where her Fame is enroled. But I, the most unfortunate creature alive, here in a soil unknown to me, to stand in such great hazard and doubt: Because I know not rightly, whether this be she or no, yet doth my mind persuade me, that it were unpossible to find her mate. But yet if I knew that this were she: I would fetch the rest of my company, that they might be partakers of my long desired joys. But stay, what comely Champion is this so bravely mounted, ready to encounter with his mortal enemy. I will attend to see what his coming is, and wherefore he standeth thus to hazard himself to Fortune.   

The Champion seeing that the Lady had ended her talk, presumeth nearer, and speaketh to her, 
The Champion speaketh to the Lady, disdaining her talk passed, & yieldeth her great rebuke therefore.  as followeth.  
IT may be fair Lady, that either you hope to purchase praise, by extolling so much this renowned Queen: Or else you look for a private commodity to countervail your bold attempt, which of them you do, I know not, nor which you are likeliest to gain, I can not conjecture: only this I am to answer, that (of myself) I think no praise can deservedly patronize you: without it were more merited, and as for commodity, you are like to get it where you can, 
He allegeth that women are apt to praise their Sex.  for our charity is now waxed cold.  
In deed I must thus allow, you Women (for the most part) are given to praise your own Sex, and though there be no desert: yet will you praise for your pleasure. What heroical words you used, are not yet forgotten, and what peremptory brags you made, 
He useth threatening words, thinking thereby to allay the courage of the Lady.  yet stick on my stomach. You commend this Princes to excel all other, and you seem to say, that none more rightly doth deserve it then she. If you of yourself are able to avouch what is spoken, and of sufficient force to stand to your boasting? doubt not but you shall be dealt with all before you depart, and be constrained to remember yourself better an other tyme.  
Have I condemned my peerless Pollinarda: 
He seemeth to extol his Lady above the Princess.  and advanced the Fame of this Princes? Have I left my native Country, wherein abound choice of delicate Dames, hoping that this should surpass them all? And is it now come to no better effect? I see Report tatleth as pleaseth her, and maketh those fools that think themselves most wise. Pack up to Hungaria, as wise as thou camest hither, and all thy winnings, put in thy purse to spend when a dear year cometh.   

The Lady hearing the Champion in such unlawful order to contemn the party in presence, maketh him an answer, thereby to cool his courage.  
Sir Knight, 
The Lady replieth to the Champion, because he seemed so much to commend his Polinarda.  neither dismayed through your presumptuous words, nor yet encouraged through any vain hope, yet greatly aggrieved at this your rude behaviour, for my part I am one who comes to see as well as yourself, yet dislike not so much with myself as you do. Seem you to be offended at any thing passed, and extol you your Pollinarda above this gallant Gem? I know it were unpossible she should make any comparison, and I know this so virtuous: that she can not be her equal. 
The Lady biddeth battle to the Champion in defence of her cause  Wherefore if your heart be hardened, that you dare abide the breakfast that I shall bestow on you, and your mind so misbelieving that it will not be reform: I will assay my courage in defence of this Princes, and force you to confess you have chosen too hard a choice.   

The Champion perceiving the Lady so willing to stand to her words passed, and that by force of Arms she would maintain her cause: replieth.  

The Champion taketh the offer of the Lady, willing to enter Combat.  LAdy, if your courage be so correspondent, and your manhood so equivalent, that you dare seem to avouch your preter presumption, though small honour I shall gain by conquering a Woman, and no victory to speak of, it shall be to vanquish you: yet will I teach you how you shall behave yourself an other time, and how to beware to make your choice so hard.  The Lady replieth. 

The Lady prayeth for assistance.  AS for that sir Knight, we shall deal well enough. Now God assist me in this my enterprise, and as I know my quarrel good and lawful: so hope I the victory shall be laudable and gainful. Think not sir Knight, although God hath given the greater courage, the more magnanimity, and the bolder behaviour to your Sex: he hath utterly rejected the weaker vessels.  

She apply her gifts equivalent to his kifts.  In steed of your courage, he hath endued us with comely conditions, and in place of magnanimity, he hath graffed womanly modesty: and for your bold behaviour, he hath bestowed on us bountiful beauty. So that aspect our beauty: your boldness is blunted, respect our modesty: your magnanimity is but mean, and our comely conditions, will soon quail your courage, and as how. A Gentleman void of of Virtue: his behaviour is worse than a Beggar, a mean person adorned with virtue: 
Uertulesse Gentillytie is worse than Beggary.  is a precious jewel above such a Gentleman. Therefore may it rightly be said, and sufficiently avouched, that vertulesse Gentillytie: is worse than Beggary.  
You sir for example, 
The Lady chargeth him with greater matters than he looked for.  if any jot of Gentillytie, or any sign of humanity, seemed to be extant in you: you would use your talk with more discretion, and demonstrate that which I perceive is not in you. Is it your bold behaviour that doth purchase you praise? Is it your melancholy magnanimity, that maketh you ever the more manful? Or is it your craking courage, that will make you ever the sooner commendable? No, 
The Lady here learneth him a lesson.  in steed of these place honest humanity: and then I warrant you shall not seem so haughty, for bold behaviour, use knightly courtesy: and then your deeds will appear more worthy, for your misused manhood, frequent decent magnanimity: and then your Fame shall be witnessed accordingly, and for your craking courage, use Courtly civility: then shall you be honoured, where now you are nothing esteemed. But as your Country is barbarous: so is your behaviour, and as an Ape clothed in a coat of gold, by his conditions is an Ape still: So good talk ministered to one that careth not therefore: is even better well spared then evil spent.   

The Champion incensed with great anger, cometh nearer the Lady, saying.  
Avaunt presumptuous peasant, 
The Champion scorning the Ladies good talk, answereth.  seemest thou to use childish words to me? Thinkest thou I will be taught of such a Uarlet as thou? No, I'll soon cool your courage, therefore delay no longer, but defend thyself.  The Lady. 
SInce neither friendly council, nor wisdom of thine own self is able to warn thee, but that thou wilt hazard thy ha● in hope to convince me: defend thyself manfully, and I as womanly, so that begin when thou please, for I am perfectly provided.  
  

The Champion rideth to the one end of the Tilt, and she to the other, and there they deal according as the order and custom is thereof, after half a score staves be broken: the Champion was thrown beside his Horse, to whom the Lady came thus saying.  

The Lady having vanquished the Champion saith thus.  WHat Sir, is Miles Gloriosus, or triumphing Thraso, who thought it were unpossible to pull his parched plumes, or to cease his courageous countenance: now brought to so bad a banquet? Was this he who thought himself no-nothing inferior to Alexander, as puissant as Pompey, as haughty as Hannibal, Hector or Hercules, as courageous as Caesar, as stout as Samson or Scipio: And now foiled at the hands of a Woman? Where is now thy bravery? Where is thy vain vaunting? Where is thy presumptuous, peremptory persuasions? Where are now all thy manly motions? Now dashed amid the dust? now sent to seek succour, and thou and all thy might now subject to my valiancy? How sayest thou, wilt thou revolt thy former words, and content thyself to yield submission to this peerless Princes: or die the death which thou hast rightly deserved?   

The Champion seeing himself in such a pitiful plight, and that all this while he had maintained a wrong opinion, desired the Lady he might stand up, and then spoke as followeth.  
REnowned Princes, 
The Champion ashamed of his bold presumption desireth that they would hear his sorrowful discourse.  and you most worthy Lady, as my fact is so faulty, that I can crave no forgiveness, and my deed so desperately done, that it deserveth due discipline: yet am I to desire you to permit me a little patience, and to ponder my words at your courteous pleasure. First, where folly so guided me, and self will so blinded me, that I was lead with every lewd report, and every tattling tale, I not minding the rare virtues resident, in the Princely person whom I have so heinously offended: let my tongue run at liberty, where now I repent me.  
Next, 
He repenteth that he praised so much his Polinarda.  thinking mine own manhood sufficient to contend both against Men and Monsters: made me to commend my Polinarda, whom I now perceive is far inferior. Let therefore my cause be construed at your clemency, let pity plead my case, though I be nothing worthy, and I vow while life lasteth to her such dutiful alleageaunce: that I hope you will count my service worthy commendation. In so doing, that valiant train which I brought with me, who are not far hence attending my coming: shall and will be all contented to serve at your pleasure.   

The Lady seeing the dutiful show of submission in the Knight, cometh to him, saying.  

The Lady cometh to the Champion, pronouncing him pardon, in hope of his amendment.  WEll sir Knight, in hope that your after service shall prove so permanent as here you have avouched, and that you ever hereafter in this peerless Prince's cause, will both live and die. I dare pronounce that you are pardoned, and that your offence shall be no more remembered.  
Caesar got him such a noble name, through his great compassion, and that made Cicero so much to commend him. 
Cicero in Oratione Pro rege Deiotaro. Alcander who put out Lycurgus eye. Eusebius.  Lycurgus, when he had his eye put out, by the negligence of Alcander: commanded that his first offence should be forgiven, he would be more heedful in the next. Eusebius, wounded to the death with a stone, thrown from the hand of a Woman: on his death bed forced his friends to swear, that they would not harm her for it. I may likewise allege the words of Virgil to thee: Forsan et hoc olim meminisse iwabit: and that the sentence of Euripides will bid thee beware: 
Virgil. Euripides.  Dul●e est meminisse malorum. Now is thy first fault forgiven, in hope of amendment, so that rather praise shall be purchased by pardoning thine offence: then that rigour should rule to exact on so penitent an offender. Therefore behold, when justice saith strike: Mercy by mildness doth stay the sword, & when a crime is committed deserving death: Pity doth work on the offender's behalf. Therefore while thou livest, homage her whose merciful mind, will not revenge with rigour: for that Virtue hath caused her to pity thine estate, and thou and all that are her dutiful Subjects: say, God save our most worthy Queen. Therefore go your way, and fetch the rest of your train, and so will I bring with me all my noble Ladies, and then will we go together, to procure some farther pastime.   

After they had both brought their trains, they fell to a fresh Tournament, and so ended this Devise.  Zelauto. 
Now sir, have I not wearied you with this long & tedious discourse? Tell me I pray you how like you of it? Is it not worthy to be carried in remembrance, because it is such an excellent devise?  Astraepho. 
Credit me sir, it is the properest devise that ever I heard of, and if it shall please you to bestow the same on me: I will give you as gallant a discourse to carry with you.  Zelauto. 
Sir, any thing I have is at your commandment, and I would it were so dear a gift, as I could find in heart to bestow on you.  Astraepho. 
I thank you for your good will heartily. But do her noble Peers and Lords that are about her, often use to recreate her person with such brave and strange devices?  Zelauto. 
Sir, those gallant youths do, and have bestowed abundance in the pleasing of her Majesty, and are so well contented therewithal: that surely it surpasseth any man's wit to give them praise according to their desert.  Astraepho. 
But did you ever come in acquaintance with any of those noble Gentlemen?  Zelauto. 

Zelauto telleth how much bound he was to a noble Lord in the English Court.  Yea Sir, and am much bound to one of them in especial, who sure in magnanimity of mind, and valour of courage, representeth in that famous Land, a second Caesar, to the view of all that know him. And a little before I departed out of that worthy Country, I wrote a few verses in the commendation, of that virtuous Maiden Queen: and also I wrote a few other in praise of that noble Lord, to whom I am bound for his singular bounty.  Astraepho. 
I pray you Sir, if those verses be not out of your remembrance: let me hear some part of them?  Zelauto. 
That you shall, 
Zelauto writ verses in the praise of the Queen.  wherefore mark what I writ in the praise of the English Queen.   

Zelauto here telleth to Astraepho, the verses that he wrote in the commendation of the English Queen.  

QVEL. CHE. MI. MOLESTAVA ACCENDO. ET ARDO   

IF eyes may judge, and mind may full suppose,  
the virtues rare, that I of late have seen:  
Then pen at large, may perfectly disclose,  
the seemly honour of a Virgin Queen.  
Whose perfect praise deserves to be unfold:  
And blazed abroad in trump of beaten Gold.   

The Graces three attendant stand at beck,  
Diana doth her royal reign support:  
Virtue doth stand, all vice to countercheck,  
and Modesty bears sway in all her Court.  
Truth rules aloft, repelling dark debate:  
justice doth sway the sword of her estate.   

Prudence doth stand, on right side of this Queen,  
and Temperance a Garland holds before:  
Then Fortitude stands jointly them between,  
and Trial he doth guard her evermore.  
Peace on the left side, Plenty on the other:  
Thus seemly they adorn the Queen their mother.   

Sobriety doth bear the flag on high,  
Virginity stands clothed in Vestal white:  
Her train behind borne by Humility,  
Pity likewise, waits on this worthy wight.  
Thus every thing stands in so good a frame:  
That far and near, doth spread her golden Fame▪  
FINIS.   Astraepho. 

Astraepho marveleth at this rare report.  Zelauto, believe me, I never heard in all my life so many virtues resident in a mortal creature. But certainly as I know your judgement is excellent in such matters: so I confess again, that had I not heard it of you, I would not have believed it. But now Sir, I pray you let me hear the verses which you wrote in commendation of that noble Gentleman, whom you praised so much likewise.  Zelauto. 
That you shall, 
Zelauto writ verses in the praise of a noble Lord  and I would I were able by pen to praise, or by pains to requite his singular great courtesy.   

Hear Zelauto rehearseth the verses that he wrote in the praise of a certain Noble Lord in the English Court.  

IF ever Caesar had such gallant Fame,  
or Hannibal, whose martial life we read:  
Then in your Honour, I esteem the same,  
as perfect proof in virtue and in deed.  
My pen unable is your praise to paint:  
With virtues rare, that doth your mind acquaint.   

What I have found, I need not to express,  
what you have done, I far unworthy was:  
But Nature yet doth cause me think no less,  
but that with love you did respect my case.  
And such great love did in your heart abound:  
That strange it is the friendship I have found.   

Wherefore for aye I Honour your estate,  
and wish to you, to live Argantus' life:  
And all your deeds may prove so fortunate,  
that never you do taste one jot of strife.  
But so to live, as one free from annoy:  
In health and wealth, unto your lasting joy.  
FINIS.   Astraepho. 
Surely, belike Zelauto you have found great friendship at that noble Gentleman's hands. But referring all other matters aside, tell me what became of your Companion, that went with you into England?  Zelauto. 
Truly he was so far in love with the Country, that I could not get him from thence when I departed. And in deed so would I likewise have stayed, if my Father's commandment had not been such, which caused me to hasten away, because I would see other Countries.  Astraepho. 
Then you did departed shortly after, and left your Companion there?  Zelauto. 

Zelauto taketh shipping into Persia.  Yea Syr. And from thence I took shipping to go into Persia. But many were the miseries that I poor soul abode among the tyrannous Turks.  Astraepho. 

Astraepho seemeth to tell Zelauto of his bold hazarding himself in such order.  But durst you seem to wander so far as to put yourself, in hazard of life among those cruel and bloody Turks. You remembered not belike your Father's commandment, who willed you to guide yourself so well: that your return might be to his eternal joy, but rather as desperate, having a youthful head and a running wit, would venture on your own destruction.  Zelauto. 

Zelauto excuseth his boldness as well as he can.  In deed Sir, who mindeth not the after misery: wadeth often so far that he is clean over shoes, so I more upon pleasure then any other cause: put myself to God and good Fortune on that behalf, yet was I not unmindful of my Father's precepts, for that I purposed nothing, but found it to my profit.  Astraepho. 

They go to supper.  Well Zelauto, it draweth now toward night, and we have well spent this time in talk. Let us now go in, and provide something for our Supper. And to morrow we will discourse of your other adventures at large.  Zelauto. 
I am well contented Sir, and a thousand thanks I yield you for your courtesy.    

The Author.  
THus hath Zelauto and Astraepho passed one day in talk together, and now are gone to provide such necessaries as are needful to suffice their hungry stomachs: how they spent the next day: the matter ensuing shall make manifest. Thus yielding myself (gentle Reader) unto thy courteous construction, and not to a rash Reporters reprehension: I wish my works might procure thee as much pleasure, as my good will is to work thy welfare. Vale.  Honos alit Artes. 
FINIS.  
A. Monday.   

Zelauto. His Arrival in Persia, his valiant adventuring in the defence of a Lady, condemned for her Christianity, his prosperous Peregrination among the tyrannous Turks, with the rest of his Knightly deeds.  
¶ The second part of the Fountain of Fame.  
Written by A. M.  
Honos alit Artes.   

The Author, to the courteous Reader.  
WHo but beheld the one side of janus: would hardly judge that he were so rare mis-shaped. And who but viewed the upper part of a Siren: would think she were a whole woman incorporate. So who but readeth the beginning of a book: can give no judgement of the sequel ensuing. The Friar in the middle of his sermon, cried the best was behind: and I having told you a piece of a tale, say the finest followeth. So, if that you behold janus perfectly: you shall see his deformedness, and if you see all parts of the Siren: you shall find the alteration, likewise if you read all the book: you shall not be deluded by (the best is behind) but so to reprehend mine excuse. The Printer (you will say) hath painted it full of Pictures, to make it be bought the better: and I say the matter is more meritorious, and therefore you should buy it the sooner. So, if you will be ruled by the Printer and me: you shall at no time want any of the Books.  
The homelyest house, may be handsome within: the simplest Garden, may have Flowers worth the smelling, and a weather beaten Bulwark, may hold out the bold blows of a well wintered Soldier. Many a good Captain, may go in a plain coat, and many an honest man, may walk simply arrayed. Therefore, the homlynesse of the house, doth not reprehend the handsomeness, the simpleness of the Garden, condemn the sweet sent of the Flowers, nor the Bulwark disbase the stoutness of the Soldier, likewise, the plain coat of the Captain doth not diminish his manhood: nor the mean array of the Citizen, impair any of his honesty: Neither doth the bluntness of my Book, altogether condemn me: nor the mean method of the matter, diminish any jot of the good will of the Author, you can have no more of a Cat but her skin: nor of me more than I am able to do. Well, I will not trouble you with wresting many words, nor hinder you from hearing that which ensueth: you have free entrance into the Orchard, pluck where you please, love where you like, and fancy where you find fittest.  
FINIS.  
Your friend. A. Monday.   

¶ The second part of the delicate Disputation between two noble Gentlemen of Italy.  Astraepho. 
NOw Sir Zelauto, 
Astraepho in the morning beginneth to talk with Zelauto, desiring him to accept in good part his homely entertainment.  you have seen, the whole courtesy, that I your poor friend can show you, to feast you with Fortune's fare (I call it so) because as to day I have it, and to morrow it is uncertain, therefore it cometh by sudden chance, and also to lodge you in my careful couch, hard and unpleasant, the furniture thereto belonging all of moss & leaves, yet well doth it content me, because I have used myself thereto, to you I know it is strange, and no marvel, because the Princely pleasures that is in your famous father's Mansion, as yet stick upon your stomach. Myself, having remained here full fourteen years and more, have clean forgot, my preter delights, my wanton conceits, and my lays of love. Now to the sprouting sprays I commend my suit, the Hills, the Dales, the Rocks, the cliffs, the Crags, yea, and the gallant Echoes resound of this solitary Wyldesse, they & none but they can witness of my woe. In Court I served, to my small avails, I sued to a self willed Saint, I complained, 
He showeth how he needeth not to accept of coin, for because he hath Nobody to ba●ter withal.  and it was not regarded. But here I live as Prince within myself, not foe to any, nor none to me. I adore my God. I feast myself as well as I can, as for my garments, though they be homely, yet are they healthful, for Silken suits, are not to wander among the bryery brakes withal. What care I for money, I have Nobody to bater withal, my Host asketh me no money when I rise from breakfast, dinner or supper, then what should I do with it? If in your careful Cities, 
Money in Citie● causeth much mischief dissension among the commons, discord among friends, & such like injuries.  you as little regarded, your coin as I: you should not have so much extortion, so much bribing to Officers, so much wrangling and jarring among the common sort, so much encroaching one upon another, and to conclude, you should not have so many devilish devices frequented, therefore I do not aspect for my private commodity, I live not here by pride or by usury, but I take all contentedly, so to no man am I enemy. This homely discourse, for a morning's good morrow I trust will suffice, now must I desire you to proceed in your promised affairs, touching the rest of your mishaps.  Zelauto. 

Zelauto yieldeth innumerable thanks for the great courtesies that he hath found, being but in deed a stranger.  Courteous Sir, if my slender ability, were of such and so great a puissance, as might but seem to countervail the large and inestimable courtesy, that I have found at your hands undeservedly: I might then then the bolder behave myself in your company. But as where nothing is to be had, the King looseth his right: even so I having nothing▪ yield myself to your courteous consideration (always remembered) that if it shall please God to send such success, as of long I have looked for: I doubt not (though not able to satisfy the whole, wherein I am indebted) yet to recompense the greatest part as near as I can. And this by the way to assure yourself, though loath to spend so much lip labour in promising you preferment, doubt not but in heart I will remember you, and that to your contentment.  Astraepho. 

Astraepho desirous to hear the rest of his travails: remembreth him of his former promise.  Sir Zelauto, here needeth no such thanks, if I could bestow so much of you, as my poor heart would willingly afford: I doubt not but than you would thank me. In the mean while, take as you find, welcome yourself though you be not bidden, shut up the sack when it is but half full, & give God thanks for all. But proceed I pray you as touching your promise, for I greatly desire to hear what after happened you.  Zelauto. 
I shall satisfy your aspectation willingly, but give ear I pray you, and mark it attentively, for you shall hear the tenor of a strange and tragical Comedy.  Zelauto removeth his Thought to haste out of England. 
 

Heer Zelauto telleth how he departed from the royal Realm of England, and arrived at Zebaia in Persia, and of the great courtesy that he found with his Host Manniko Rigustello, 
Zelauto his coming to Zebaia in Persia, to the house of one Mamniko Rigustello, who lodged Christians.  and also of his wife named Dania.  
BEing departed from my Companion, & from that thrice renowned Realm of England, after many hard and diffy●ill passages: I arrived at Zebaia, a gallant and brave City in Persia. Being come thither, alas I wist not what to say, the people so gazed upon me, as though they would have eaten me, so at last I entered into the sign of the Gorgon's head, which is a house of lodging for Strangers. When I came in, I found my Host and his Wife sitting by the fire at supper, I saluted them in their own language as well as I could, marry mine Hostess was a Florentine, 
The hosts of the house a Christian a Florentin.  and she did quickly perceive what countryman I was, wherefore she rose up, and very courteously bade me welcome, so presently I was had up into a Chamber, & a good fire made, than I sat down & communed with mine Hostes.  

The talk between mistress Dania and Zelauto in his Chamber.  

The hosts and Zelauto conferreth together about his coming to that place, and informeth him of the laws & orders of that City.  Sir (quoth she) as the sight of a Christian in this place, is a thing of great liking unto me: even so are you welcome, although as yet unacquainted. But neither to stand upon the niceness of rhetorical gloss, nor to trifle the time with long and doubtful delays, this I am to inform you, we are here subject under a Law, to which Law, will we, nill we, we must obey, the Law doth thus far stretch in charge, that no Christian must abide in the City above ten days, if longer, to their own peril, in which time, the Host must be sworn for his good usage, and to see if that he keep due and decent behaviour in his house. Now Sir, you having taken up your lodging here: my Husband is upon his good liking to give his word for you. 
The hosts proffereth herself to be his friend.  Think not Gentleman that I speak to discourage you, for you shall find yourself here as well used as in your own Country, I am myself a Christian borne, and will stand your friend in more than I will now make my vaunt of: therefore (by the way) I give you first to understand our Laws, of other matters we shall the better discourse afterwards. Gentlewoman (quoth I) I would that my simple and mean behaviour, 
Zelauto giveth her great thanks for her courtesy.  might once be worthy to deserve, the courtesy of such a friendly entertainment, & surely in the informing me of the Laws and Customs of your City: you have done me no small pleasure, for otherwise, I might have by some one occasion unwittingly violated them. But now since you (on mere courtesy) hath done thus much for me: I am to yield you a thousand thanks. Well sir (quoth she) then if I might be so bold, 
She demandeth of what country he is, & wherefore his coming is, and whether he minded to make his journey.  I would enter into a little talk with you. Truly Gentlewoman (quoth I) you are not so willing: as heartily welcome, therefore say what pleaseth you.  
Then sir (quoth she) since your patience hath pardoned my rash attempt: I am the bolder without blushing to crave such courtesy at your hands, as to rehearse of whence you are, from whence you come, what moved you to visit this place, and whether you mind to travail. Suspect no subtle Sophistry in this my demand (good sir) but rather impute my boldness to country behaviour, 
Zelauto reposing a good beleéfe in his hostess, because she was a christian, openeth to her of whence he was, & how he had travailed▪ other countries, and how he meant to travail, till his time were expired. She answereth him very honestly & civilly, so it drew at length to supper time  and to one that wisheth your welfare.  
Genlewoman (quoth I) to dissemble were no part of friendly familiarity, to lie, would impair my name and credit, to tell truth also, may here perhaps to return to mine own endamagement, but building my assurance on your Christian fidelity, and hoping you will not seek to work my harm wilfully, but will rather adjuvate me in my necessity: to you will I unfold the sum of my secrets. First I am a Venetian borne, and my Father, if living (as I hope he be) thereof is Duke, my youthful mind being addicted to see foreign Countries: left my Father, and took myself to travail. So after the view of other Countries: Fortune hath sent me hither, where I must be no long abyder, because four years and more are fully expired, and my time doth amount but unto six years, and to answer whether I shall go from hence: I can not, because I must crave your good and friendly direction in my voyage, that I may escape from mine enemies: and safely return home into my Country.  
In deed sir (quoth she) I can not blame you, to keep yourself so secret, if you be descended of so noble a house, and for my part, you shall be injured by no way, but rather advanced, and if life, goods, or what ever else may pleasure you: be hold, for they are ready at your commandment. By this time it waxed somewhat dark, and supper was ready, so the meat being served up into my Chamber, the Host came, and he, his wife and I, supped altogether.    

The talk which Manniko Rigustello the host, Dania his wife, and Zelauto had together at Supper.  

The Host being at supper with Zelau. knowing he was a Christian, and had a good mind to the same himself, entereth into talk with him.  MAnniko Rigustello the Host, sitting at the Table, and seeing that I was a Christian, he being one himself that of long time endeavoured to become a Christian: desired me, (if I could) to rehearse some part of the Scripture, whereby he might receive comfort and consolation, for the want of which he was long time troubled and vexed in his spirit. Quoth I, though not so able as I would I were, yet will I reveal such things unto you, as I have no doubt but you shall be comforted thereby, and I will help to mitigate your wounded conscience, by the sweet and blessed promises of our Lord and saviour jesus Christ, a sovereign medicine against all frailties of the vile and voluptuous ●●eshe.  
  

Hear Zelauto rehearseth to Astraepho the comfortable talk that he used to his Host Manniko Rigustello, and of the conversion of his Host.  
AFter that God of his infinite goodness & mercy, had framed all things according to his heavenly will and pleasure, 
The creation of man. Gene. 1.  as first the day and night, next the trees, the earth, the sea, the fishes, the fowls, and all living beasts: then made he Man the Image of his own likeness, and graffed into him reason and understanding, 
Man● made a governor. The beasts to labour for him, and to be his food likewise. Man, what a loss he had.  whereby he excelled all the creatures of the earth, insomuch, that he gave him the domination over all other creatures, as the Ox both to labour for him, and to be sustentation to his body likewise, the Horse to bear his weary carcase, after his tedious labour, and other creatures beside for his behoof and nourishment.  
But man amid all his gallant joys, received so sharp and so heavy a fall: 
Man, cast out of Paradise.  that for ever he lost his paradisall pleasures. Before, living at liberty, wanting nothing to his prosperity, was now driven into such a perplexity, that he must eat his bread in the sweat of his brows, till the ground by his weary labour, beside, sustaining the wrathful countenance of his heavenly Creator, that before was bend toward him so loovingly: now cast out utterly, ashamed to come before his Majesty, 

God yet would not leave us succourless, but sent his Prophets to preach to us, than his Christ to pay the ransom of our sins & what grievous tormente● he did abide for us: yet we do not seek to amend our naughty living, but daily sin more and more.  
Zelauto telleth him what cruelty they use to a poor member of Christ's body, when they take him.  
Through want of knowledge of God cometh this great tyranny▪  
To know God, is to do as we would be done unto.  
To know God, to worship him only.  
To know God, to believe in his Christ.  
To know God. bringeth life everlasting.   so horrible was his sin & iniquity, that the quantity of his loss to us is unspeakable.  
But what of that, did God for ever after leave us desolate? did he send us no comfort to secure us? Yes, yes, his Prophets to preach to us, lastly, his dear Son to ransom us, who when we were at the brink of utter destruction, paid the price of his precious blood, to redeem us. What mockings? what scoffings? what railings? what spitting in the face? what whipping? what crowning with thorn? what nailing on the Cross? and what tyrannous torments did he meekly, patiently, loovingly, gently, yea, & willingly suffer for our sins. But alas how little do we regard it? we that know there is a God, & a punishment due to our sins: seek not to amend our lives. You that live in darkness, and not able to attain to so clear light: how wilfully, how wanton, how wickedly you lead your lives because you will not know this. When you catch a Christian, a member of that sweet body that suffered all these torments: then triumph you, what merciless torments he must abide, alas, my heart bleedeth for to think on, how tyrannically you can find in heart to use him?  
And whereof groweth this great cruelty you use? only for want of the knowledge of God. If you knew what God is: you would then consider with yourselves, how you should do to an other man as you would be done to yourself.  
If you knew God, you would never call on such a vain thing as Mahomet is: but on the true God, he which liveth and reigneth everlastingly. If you knew God: you would then believe in his Christ, (whose name you can not abide) and then you would consider what and how many grievous torments he suffered for you, and then would you rather seek to increase the members of his body: then to make such havoc and spoil of them as you do. So that if you knew God: you should be partakers with his dear children, in the kingdom of heaven.  Manniko Rigustello the Host reasoneth with Zelauto. 
Sir (quoth the Host) by this your talk, 
The Host moved in mind at the talk of Zelauto: entereth into farther communication with him. The Host desireth to know how he might likewise become a Christian.  I am greatly moved in mind. First, to consider the blindness in which I have lived: Next to think on the happy and blissful life that you Christians have. But sir, I have communed with a great many that have come hither, and they in deed have told me part of that which even now you said, and have heartened me very much, but none that ever came so near the quick as you do: well letting that pass, I am to desire you to infourm me how I might attain to so sweet a comfort as you have. If my appliable pains may aid me to purchase it: I vow no occasion whatsoever shall hinder me.  Zelauto. 
I am right glad (quoth I) to hear that you have so good a zeal & intent to the Christian faith, 
Zelauto glad to hear the Hosts good zeal, yet desireth him to cease of that talk till some 〈◊〉 there more conveniennt tyme.  and my diligence shall not want to council you therein, but as of two extremities, the least is to be chosen, and of two evils the worst to be shunned: So hold I it best, that at this time we leave to confer of these matters, lest that when we least of all think, the enemy come to subvert us. At this time, if you please, let us use such delightful talk (used with moderation:) as may well recreate us: and no fault be found therewith, yet think not (I desire you) but that I will satisfy your requests, in whatsoever you please, & you shall find me to do more for you, than now I mind to make protestation of. So if you are well instructed, and I devoid of my peril: you shall win your whole wishing, and I purchase no disprofit. How say you sir, are you contented to grant to that I have spoken?  Manniko Rigustello, the Host. 

The Host is well contented with the reply of Zelauto, & falleth with him into other talk.  In deed sir, you say truth▪ little said is soon amended, and where the hedge is lowest, the beasts go over soon: therefore we will cearse this talk at this time, & reason thereof between ourselves secretly. Therefore tell me I pray you, what was the cause of your coming into this Country, being such a soil, wherein they rather desire your death, then wish your well fare? and whether mean you from hence to travail?  Zelauto. 

Zelauto telleth to the Host the cause why he went thus in travail.  Sir (quoth I) you know that a youthful mind is still venturous, and desirous to see new sights, and fashions every day, wherefore I being one more addicted to pleasure then profit, and more desirous of novels, then to continue still in one song: hazarded myself to all chances, whatsoever, and hitherto I have out stood them (I thank God:) well enough. What shall follow I know not▪ what is passed hath been sufficiently discharged, but whether I travail from hence, is utterly unknown, thus you know at large the cause of my travails.  

Mica Sheffola the Nephew of the sultan came in very sad and heavy.  We had now sitten at supper not fully half an hour, but there came in one, a very goodly Gentleman, who was Nephew to the sultan of the City, named Mica Sheffola, this Gentleman sat down at the Table, and gave a very grétnesse sigh▪ at length looking on me, the blood rose abundantly in his face, and the tears began to trickle down his cheeks. My Hostess. Dania seeing the pensive plight of this Gentleman: ran to him, 
The Hosts of the house taketh the Gentleman about the neck to comfort him.  and took him about the neck saying. Alas good sir, what meaneth these mestive motions? What harm is happened that makes you so heavy? Or what cause procureth you to lament in this sort? O tell me good sweet sir, and if any help lieth in me: credit me, I will do it to the very uttermost of my power. Ah good Dania (quoth he) I know right well, if thou couldst remedy the matter▪ thou wouldst do it willingly, but the case so standeth, that it is far from thy power to pleasure me, or any that I know, that is able to do so much for me. Then looked he on me again, and feign he would have spoken, but yet he was half afraid, which I seeing, and hearing him say, that a man might pleasure him in the cause of his so great sorrow, I said.  
Gentleman, 
Zelauto seeing the great sadness of the Gentleman speaketh unto him.  Art and invention of man hath framed for every sore a salve, for every malady a medicine, & for every disease a cause or remedy for the same. Likewise God, as he hath framed the mouth: so hath he sent meat to sustain the same with all, and as he sendeth sickness to man, so doth he send him health again.  
Man of himself is placed among a multitude of miseries, sometime ready to fall into this evil, then into the, yet is he not left desolate. As God sendeth him misery: so sendeth he joy again, a while he scourgeth, and then he ceaseth, a while he lowreth, and then he laugheth.  
The Physician first ministereth a sharp Salve to search the depth of the disease, 
Zelauto seeketh by many and sundrie-examples to cause the Gentleman to leave his great and sudden sadness.  and then he the better and sooner healeth his cure? The Prince a while frowneth upon his Subject, to declare his authority, and to make him to obey? but afterward he useth his dealings mercifully. The master quickeneth up the dull mind of the Scholar with sharp words▪ and stripes of the rod at the first: but afterward he loveth him, and maketh much of him.  
Even so Sir it maybe, that some sudden chance permitted by God hath happened, as to deprive you of some of your dearest friends, 
He applieth his former allegations to the Gentleman.  or else that some unlooked for mischance hath happened, which procureth your pensiveness, souseth you in sorrows▪ and maketh you moan in such mestive manner. I● so it be, think not but he which hath sent this Cross: is able to take it away again, and that he which causeth you now to lament: will at length cause you to laugh.  

He showeth him how his great lamenting doth but bring all his senses out of quiet.  Therefore never wrap yourself in woes, nor waste your days in wailing: For that can but cause the unquietness of the mind, distemperature of the body, and likewise bereave you of your senses. Pardon my presumption (Sir) I pray you, in that I sleme to meddle in this matter, which to me nothing pertaineth, and that I perturb your patience with my frivolous talk. I doubt not but it is as well taken: as it is meant by me and spoken, and as courteously construed, as my poor self pretended. I would be very loath to have any heavy, although I can procure them small pleasure, and I would be sorry to see one in sadness: if by my means I might move him to mirth.  

He courteously offereth himself, to pleasure him by any means that lieth in him to do.  Therefore Sir (although you be to me a stranger, and I have no commission to examine you in this case, yet as a friend that wisheth you well, and would willingly, work your well fare,) if you please to unfold the cause that molesteth your mind, and what you think is best remedy therefore: I promise you on my fidelity, though it were to encounter with any enemy, to procure you a remedy: I would hazard it willingly. In sign and token whereof, that my deed shall make manifest my word: I offer you the hand of a true and faithful Christian.   

Mica Sheffold the Soldans Nephew replieth to the courteous offer of Zelauto.  
WHen the Gentleman had well pondered my tale, and being one (as I was informed by my Hostess before) that I need not to doubt of, because he was a good Christian himself, but he durst not be known thereof: took my hand and courteously kissed it, and then began to say.  

The Gentleman kisseth Zelautoes' hand●, and then beginneth friendly to talk with him.  Sir, I am glad of your Christian company, but sorry for your being in so succourless a soil, and although you be a stranger: yet to me the welcomest man alive. I have noted well your friendly talk, and wish I were able any way to requite it, nevertheless you shall find me more your friend than I intend to boast of, and I will award any extremity, that may here seem to hurt you, in hope when you have heard it: you will do your good will to help it.  
It is so sir (as your Host can credibly witness) that I am Nephew to the sultan Neoreo, 
The Gentleman openeth the cause of his sadness to Zelauto.  who governeth this City, and one, who with him am able to do you a pleasure, but at this time, Fortune hath frowned so frowardly: that she hath dashed the chief of my desires in the dust. I have a very gallant, godly and virtuous Gentlewoman to my Sister, who because of her Christian belief, 
His sister for her christian belief appointed to death.  and constant avouching of the same: is condemned by the Law, and to morrow she must lose her life. Yet hath the sultan thus much granted, that if any one whatsoever, dare venture himself against a Champion by force of Arms to set her free: she shall upon his good success be restored at liberty. To take this case in hand I know no one dare be so bold, there are many which willingly would: but that they doubt to be suspected thereby, myself dare willingly venture the cause: 
More of her friends but for fear of suspicion dare venture to stand in her quarrel.  but that if I should conquer the enemy, mine Uncle the sultan would conspire my death by some means, so that seeing no way to adjuvate this extremity, I am fully persuaded she shall die the death. And to request you herein, I willingly would not, for that I know it were the loss of your life: which (on my Christian fidelity) I would be loath to hear of, much less to be the procurer thereof▪ Wherefore (good sir) tell me the best council you can, what may be done in this doubtful matter?  Zelauto. 
I having heard the Gentleman's sorrowful tale, 
Zelauto deviseth what were best to be done in this doubtful case.  and considered the distressed case of that famous and worthy Lady: thought, that if I lost my life in defence of my faith, my Captain Christ would purchase me the greater reward. Again, if the Lady were so constant, to abide such merciless torments as her own kindred, and the residue of her enemies would willingly lay upon her, 
Zelauto thinketh it a great shame for ●uer unto him, if he should not apply his pains to set the Lady free.  and all for the zealous Christianity which remained in her virtuous breast: I should deservedly reap a great reproach, if I could and would not seek to mitigate her miseries. Therefore wholly committing the cause to God's omnipotency, and not accounting of my life, to set forth his glory: I enterprised the matter courageously, in assured hope to foil the enemy. And if that afterward my death by any means should be conspired: I would refer all to the will of the almighty, for that death were unto me advantage, and life nothing meritorious. The learned say: 
Summa virtutis Potestas est.  Cui come● virtus non est, is animo facile cadit a fortuna percussus. The mind therefore adorned with virtue: will never be timorous of that which shall raise his eternal honour, for after death is the glory of a man's preter days witnessed, as it is rightly said: Vivit post funera Virtus; and even so I encouraged, 
Mors non est fo●midanda.  through the good hope I had sustained: I made no account of this miserable mortality, but addressed myself to set the Lady at liberty, and so turning to the Gentleman, I said.  

Zelauto replieth to the demand of the Gnetle man.  Sir, as I am willing to work your well fare. So am I doubtful of my destruction, and as I may pleasure you to your perpetual profit: so may I hinder myself to my helpless harms: You say yourself, the adventure is so adverse: that on both sides it bringeth death, though the Lady enjoy her liberty: the Conqueror must abide captive, therefore neither can the Lady like her delivery: nor her Champion his hard choice.  
Again, if I (being a Christian) should conceive so good a courage, as to venture on my valiancy, to redress her eminent misery: I doubt lest a farther inconvenience might be to her allotted, and to me a death, that (albeit dying) should still live, this is to be doubted, and if it might be possible, worthy to be prevented. But now Sir to assure yourself, what a Christian courage can comprehend, & to satisfy the sorrows, that you and your friends have sustained, thus much (more for your friendly favour, than any gain I hope for, yea and more for the good liking that I have conceived, then for any riches wherewith you are able to reward me) I dare hazard myself to defend your Sister, and stand to the peril that my presumption may procure me. Wherefore if it shall please you, 〈…〉 to pray for the 〈…〉 able to lend me: I will 〈…〉.  
Whe● the Gentleman 〈◊〉 heard the friendly offer which I made him, and upon so small acquaintance▪ 〈…〉.  
〈◊〉 thy Sir, 
 〈…〉 words of a Turk, may so perfectly pierce your heart 〈…〉 
 〈…〉.  
〈…〉 
 〈…〉 shall be victor: 
He giveth to Zelauto his hand to be a Christian, and with him to taste of any troubles.  It shall be very hard but I will rescue you from their rigour, and myself take part of your pains whatsoever. And here in token, my words shall turn into deeds, I give you the hand of a Turk, changed to a Christian, With you to live and lack, with you to be true and trusty, Vsque ad mortem.  
Sir (quoth I) neither do● my deeds deserve half the good report you have uttered, nor my simple self worthy to wear such commendation. 
Zelauto desireth him in the morning to bring his armour, and he will discharge his promise.  But as the 〈◊〉 being touched, followeth so far as it can: so I being praised, presume as far as honesty may hold me. What I have promised, I purpose to perform, and what you have offered, I shall still apprompt of: in the morning set ●e brought 〈◊〉 defence as shall serve the turn: and I am here your Champion ready to the Combat.  
Our Host having sitten all this while, and heard what words had passed between us▪ right joyful that I would adventure for the Lady, 
The Host rendereth thanks to Zelauto.  said thus. Now surely Gentlem●n, were the uttermost of my 〈◊〉 able to answer your singular courtesy, or any action (whatsoever) I your poor friend could perform: you should not find me so forward to utter the same, as I would be in the verifying thereof, but in token that I would discharge what here I have spoken: I, and all mine resteth at your commandment. Then turned he to the Gentleman saying. 
The Host speaketh to Mica Sheffola.  And you Sir (for your part) have good occasion to think your coming fortunate 〈◊〉 and your time not ill bestowed: when you find a friend so ready to grant your request. I should think you very much discourteous, and that small humanity harboured in you, if you should seem to be oblivious of so courteous an offer, but I know your wisdom will 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 so wisely: that my simple self need not to make mention thereof, yet as one that wisheth your good credit should be blazed by your good deeds: and that so noble a Gentleman should not be lightly remembered: I was so bold to interrupt your patience with my frivolous talk, and to occupy the time, better than to stand idle.  
With that, 
The Hostess speaketh to Zelauto, & to Mica Sheffola.  my Hostess Dania, courteously kissing my hand, began to say as followeth. Worthy Sir, neither would I wish you to surmise my words spoken of flattery: nor that you should suppose I speak otherwise then my mind serveth me, neither you noble Sheffola to misconstrue my meaning; but to accept as my talk shall give occasion. First, the outward appearance of this gallant Gentleman's humanity: maketh ample discovery of true nobility. Next, the haughty courage that consisteth in his valiant breast: argueth that his Parents are of high degree, 
The Hostess her great good will to Zelauto.  for we all being strangers, and you most of all: his seemly self to take upon him to discharge so great a task, as the loss of his own life to secure your Sister: m● thinks you are unable to countervail his courtesy, who forceth not his life to defend Christianity. Therefore Sir, for ever command me and mine, farther than now I mean to make mention of.  
M● friends (quoth I) your good will I see is great, 
Zelauto thanketh his Host and Hosts for their good opinion.  and your affection so fervent: that you embolden me to perform that which I have made vaunt of, wherefore you Sir, may departed when you please, and fail not to send such things as are needful, and that very timely in the morning.  
Sir (quoth he) your mind shall be fulfilled, to the uttermost that you have required, 
Mica Sheffola dep●●teth from Zelauto and goeth to the prison to his sister.  and now will I go to the prison to my solitary Sister, to comfort those cares that this hard hap procureth, so shall I drive her from doubt, and procure her to prayer, that her Champion may prove so valiant, as to vanquish her enemies. In the mean time I commit you Sir, to your God, who I pray to strengthen you in your attempt, and so mine Host and Hostess both far well.  
The Gentleman being thus departed, 
Zelauto confirmeth the Host in the Christian faith.  and the hour of rest approaching▪ I entered with mine Host into a Chamber, secretly between ourselves, and there exhorted him in the best manner I could, so that my diligent labour bestowed: brought him to a good belief, and that he was fully pretended to live and die in the good counsel I gave him.  
Well, all that night, I went not to bed, but on my knees with heaved hands, made my petitions to my God almighty, to shield me safe from the tyranny of my mortal enemies.  

Mica Sheffola returneth in the morning, with the Armour for Zelauto.  In the morning, the Gentleman returned again, and brought with him a verse gallant Courser, a coat of Complete Armour, a shield, and other necessaries. When he was entered my Chamber, very courteously, he said. Albeit (worthy Sir) I can not comprehend my long expectation in all points, but that I fail in the fulfilling some part thereof: I doubt not but you will respect the brevity of the time, and allow a reasonable excuse, containing nothing but truth. And though this furniture is not so 〈◊〉 as I would it were, nor my entrance so honestly discharged, as it might have been: I hope you will deem the one as far as might could maintain it, and account the other but for want of good manners: nevertheless, if you bear with my boldness on this behalf, perchance it may be hereafter a sufficient warning.  

He showeth the great courage of his Sister to the death.  first Sir, yester night after I departed, I went to the prison to see my Sister, whom I found nothing fainting, though fear were so nigh: nor in aught to dismay at the terror of death, but rather rejoicing, that her race was so near run, and to leave mortality for eternal felicity, saying unto me. O brother, neither molest your mind with any 〈◊〉 ones, nor subdue yourself with any sorrows for I go to glory, leaving you here in a world of misery, wherefore I would the hour were at hand to translate this Trag●die▪ then should I have my with●, and they suffice them with tyranny. But since it can not be so soon as I would, but perfor●● I shall stay till choir.  

Mica Sheffola hearing the joyful words of his Sister rejoiced.  When I beheld my Sister, 〈…〉 courage, from mourning to mirth, and from pensiveness to perfect gladness: what joy I conceived, is not now to be spoken of, for the wyllingnesse that she had to the death, caused me perfectly to believe, that their excessive torments should not any and attaint her: but that in the fullness of her faith, she would withstand their practices whatsoever, and then I said unto her. 
The words he spoke to his Sister.  Dear Sister, as I am right joyful of this your Christianlike courage: so wish I you may remain unto the end, but thus much comfort is sent you, & thus much good hope to hearten you: that there is a Christian Champion in this City, will adventure limb and life in defence of your constancy, and thus much he hath willed me to tell you, that this night you must pass in prayers, for his safe success. Wherefore keep this secret to yourself, for it is unknown to anya and least I should be in aught suspected: I will bid you adieu good Sister. With that the jailor came to attend o● talk: and I seeing that departed. Then went I in to the Soldans armory, and from thence brought the best 〈◊〉 find, & here is mine own shield, Lance and 〈◊〉, which I doubt not but will like you well.   

¶ Zelauto hearing the discourse passed by Mica Sheffola, and having finished his Orisons: unto him very courteously replieth in this manner.  
SIr, 
Zelauto after Mica Sheffola had ended his discourse: saith unto him.  the good will I wish you, and the dutiful courtesy I am ready to offer you, I trust shall suffice for to bid you good morrow. These weapons which you have brought, and this Armour h●re present: shall (through the assistance of my God) either set at liberty your godly Sister: or be bathed with my blood in the open field, for this I will assure you, and without vaunt be it spoken: I never in all my life went about any thing so willingly, as I now go ●o the Combat for my conscience, & were he as great as Goliath, as stout as Samson, 
Zelauto so armed with so good a courage, that he doubteth not but to speed well.  and as monstrous as the Mino●aure●▪ I will be so bold as bestow a few blows, not doubting but they shall be indifferently delivered, and that the sultan himself shall say; he that will buy her better than I: is worthy to have her when he hath done.  
And if afterward, by traitorous treason, he seek to bereave my life: yet shall he know, that no man deserveth it better than I. But I pray you (quoth I) do you know the other Champion against whom I must wage battle? is he any man of account, or of such estimation, as to fight in this quarrel taken in hand?  

Terolfo the Soldans son, is he that must fight against Zelauto.  He answered me, that it was the Soldans Son, named Terolfo, a man of singular courage, and one that had adventured very worthily in his time, both by Sea and Land, in very great affairs.  
Marry all the better (quoth I) the more noble the man is: the more famous will the fight be, and right glad I am that it is the Soldans Son: for than if I die, I die at the hands of a valiant Champion. And about what time thinks you (quoth I) that it will be when she shall be conducted forth to death?  

Zelauto demandeth at what time the Lady must suffer death  Sir (quoth he) very early; because they are very willing to dispatch her, lest any other should seem to take opinion of her faith, and it will not be long now, for the Officers were gone to the prison to make her ready, and the Trumpet soundeth on the Castle, for any Champion that will come, the Stake is made ready to burn her at, and wood, and all things ready brought. The sultan himself, and all his Lords are ready, wherefore I know it will not be long hence now.  
Well (said I) the time is welcome, whensoever it cometh, and if it shall please you to help to arm me: it shall not be long before I am ready too.   

Manniko Rigustello, and Dania his wife cometh up into the Chamber to Zelauto, and there helpeth to arm him.  
THen presently came up mine Host and his Wife, 
The Host & his wife cometh up to Zelauto.  who after they had courteously saluted me: they and the Gentleman, helped to arm me. After I was ready, I heard a great noise of Trumpets. Sir (quoth the Gentleman) now cometh this sorrowful sight, 
The order how the Lady was lead unto her death.  here cometh the séelly Lamb lead unto her slaughter. I looked out, and there came the sultan and his Lords, before him a great guard of Armed men, some on horseback, some on foot, and next before the sultan, road one on a very gallant Steed, a valiant and comely Champion.  
After the sultan and his Lords, came the innocent Lady, in a fair white Robe down to the ground, about her were the Torments, that should pain her to death, then after them a company of ancient Matrons all in black, to mourn the ladies death, and after them came all the brave Ladies and Gentlewomen of the City, all to see the execution of this poor innocent.  
All these being past, 
The departure of Mica Sheffola.  the Gentleman took his leave of me till I came to the place, which was not far of. Within a while I listened, and heard the trumpet sound very shrill, than it stayed, and sounded the second time, up came mine Host and said. Sir now it is time, high you quickly or else never.  

The coming of Zelauto to the place to fight for the Lady.  I got up on Horseback, and by that time I was come out of the doors, the Trumpet sounded again▪ Then road I with all the possible speed I might, till I came to the place, and when the sultan and all his company saw a defender come in such haste: they were all abashed. There was great inquiry what I should be, and from whence I came, the brave Ladies and Damoselles, they were exceeding joyful, and when I was entered the midst, I saluted the sultan as well as I could, and likewise the Champion, than made I obeisance to all the company beside, who thronged near to hear what I would say, and then began I to frame my talk this order.  

The words of Zelauto to the sultan.  If right worthy sultan, and you also noble Lords, by the verdict of your wisdoms, shall licence me to yield to liberty, what I have to say, and be not offensive at any thing here spoken: I shall think you show me nothing but justice and equity, and then I shall account your Fame the more worthy.  
Quoth the sultan, 
The sultan answereth Zelauto.  thou hast free leave to speak, and liberty to do what thou canst: but what will follow we can not assure thee. Why (quoth I) offering no injury to any person present, nor wishing to be no otherwise dealt with all, than my deeds deserve: I trust you shall find no occasion of any offence, but that what I say, may be well borne with all. Well (quoth the sultan) if all be well, it is the better for thee: if any thing ill, stand to your own adventure.   

Zelauto being come to the place where he must defend the ladies cause, who stood there before him ready bound to a stake, and having talked with the sultan, as touching pardon for his bold attempt: thus beginneth to make his Oration, in the presence of them all.  
AFter I had well pondered the sharp reply of the sultan, 
Zelauto now setteth a good face on the matter, not fearing the sultan.  and that since I was entered before them all, it behoved me to set a good face on the matter, & not dismay myself with any of their devilish dealings: neither esteeming the fury of the sultan, nor craving the courtesy of any his companions; advanced myself forward, and said.  
Since neither promise may be proffered to purchase my pardon, nor licence for that I shall yield unto liberty; neither dismaying through doubt of your dealing, nor fearing the chiefest ●orte of your fury, I pronounce in presence what my mind gives occasion: and will maintain the same with the loss of my life.  

Zelauto his Oration.  Behold (invincible sultan) you noble Lords (and you renowned Matrons) a man, both dead and a live, a live to advance the cause of this Lady: and dead (in that my victory) returneth loss of my life. But yet remembering life is uncertain, & death is so that each man may make account thereof: I nought esteem the likelihood of my life, but arm myself, as one willing to the death.  
Yet by perfect proof we see, that the tallest Tree, abides many a bitter blast, the bravest Bulwark, by force is battered, the haughtiest Hart, subject to a fall, and the proudest person (at last) maketh his Cabin of clay: even so your potency may soon be perverted, and the uttermost of your tyranny, clean disappointed. See here the guiltless doomed to death, see here the lewdest suffered to live, behold where truth is turned out of all, see here where falsehood boasteth in his bravery.  
But since rashness in speech maketh me run too far: the knowledge of myself calleth me back again, I confess it is not my part to disallow of your dealings, nor to contemn the principality, which now you profess: yet may I reprehend the abused authority, ruled by rigour and not by indifferency. You will say, that Princes are not to profess partiality, and that the Subject should not meddle in the swaying of his dignity: yet ought the Prince to deal uprightly, and not to pinch that party, that avoucheth most ●ayth and dutiful loyalty. Admit that the Prince may so far over run himself, that by ambitious heads, double dealers, and privy enemies, he condemneth the man, that most doth honour him: yet is not his death to be prosecuted so hastily: but to be considered of with wisdom and discretion.  
This Lady for example, no stranger, but of your own blood, and no enemy to your Majesty: but rather one that wisheth you inestimable dignity, she by you is condemned, for wishing you well, & she committed to this mortal death: that seeketh to save you from eternal death. What heart so hard, can commit such cruelty? and what beast so brutish, but dealeth more naturally. If to your own blood, you will deal● so tyrannically: how will you deal with me poor wretch of so mean estimation? Me thinketh that though the extremity you use to the uttermost: Nature yet should move with an inward affection, and though that justly she deserved the death: yet should natural kindness procure you to pity. Also among so many gallant youths, none so venturous to defend her cause, nor none so inflamed with affection, as to mitigate her misery. Me think noble Ladies, that some one of you ought to have stood her defender: if no man had the courage to hazard his life. Admit that the estate of your Country consisted on this Ladies well far: would you seem so slothful, as to suffer your whole Country to perish, rather than to make appearance of your manhood?  
King Codrus being advertised by the Oracle, 
Codrus yielded himself to die for the safeguard of his people.  that except he were slain: his people should not vanquish their enemies: armed himself like a Soldier, placing himself in the forefront of the army, and there by his death, set all his people at quietness. Behold what great affection was in this noble Prince, who more esteemed the safeguard and happy society of his people: then his own life.  
Aglaurus, 
Aglaurus by throwing himself from the walls of Athens, redeemed his Country.  to shun the eminent danger that was like to fall upon Athens, seeing his death only might set it at liberty: threw himself headlong from the walls of Athens, and so ended the strife, where else it should have been conquered. But now attend you noble Ladies, and you modest Matrons: let the excellent example of Iphigenia cause you to remember what care you ought to have in the preventing of such dangers as may happen, and by some one of you may be easily escaped. She (I say) seeing that her death would appease the rigour of her enemies, 
Iphigenia, yielded herself to be sacrificed.  yielded herself to be sacrificed. Oh admirable virtue▪ oh singular constancy, her match as rare to find in these parts: as to see golden Goats to feed on green mountains, yet wish I that all Women would prosecute her rare rule of life, and that some one Iphigenia among you, would hazard your hap to set free this Lady.  
But least in wishing you to be warriors, I should seem to shroud myself, and that you should think I come to prate, rather than to put my puissance in practice: I will cease to trouble you with overmuch talk, & utter the cause wherefore I come. First, I come to sue and entreat, if I may have good success, which is, that you would spare the life of this famous Lady: and not cut of her days in her gallantest prime, that you would remember the race she is descended of: and work no worse to her, than you would to your own selves. Next, if you● Laws be so extreme that they may not spare punishment, and eke you yourselves so wilful, that you must needs work her wrack: I think it sufficient that you put her in exile, with express charge in pain of death never to return: so may your rigour be very well assuaged, & she for her pains indifferently penaunced. Thus in your Land shall you ever hereafter be magnified: and all people will laud your Princely dealings. And lastly, if neither of these petitions may seem to take place, but that you must needs execute the uttermost of your cruelty: Here am I before of Arms to defend her quarrel, and against this your Champion will live and die in her defence. This is the cause of my coming, and this the duty I have to discharge.  

The sultan strooken into a great quan ●arie.  With that the sultan began to look on his Lords, and they on him, the Ladies & all that were present, was strooken into a great maze, some for joy clapped their hands, and some on the other side began to weep: the poor distressed Lady stood all this while bound to the stake, and the Tormentors ready to make the fire. At last the Champion began to come nearer unto me: and the sultan having taken good advisement of my words, said as followeth.   

The sultan after he had well pondered the passed tale of Zelauto: made his reply in this order, as followeth.  

The sultan replieth to Zelauto.  SIr, as we have well advised ourselves of your words: so are we to give answer, as we shall think best, and as your talk seemeth to give occasion. We are not to condemn you for that you have spoken: nor yet to commend you, lest you should receive a private pride in yourself, also your manhood we are not to reprove, nor yet of your qualities we are not to account: although both of them in you have made a seemly show, but as your manhood may miss, when you think most surest: so may your qualities be so crafty, as at last may deceive yourself. And where you have alleged, that natural affection should work in us, especially towards them of our own Parentage: I answer, that were she mine own Child, making an offence: she is worthy to be beaten, and so she, altering from all her friends, Kinskolke and faith: in our judgements she is worthy to taste the sharpest torments. Farther, you said that she doth it as an example in wishing our weal: we answer, That they which speak us fair and love us not: We will speak them as fair, and trust them not, and she that would take no warning when she might, now if she would, we will not accept of it. But belike▪ you are of the same opinion yourself: and that makes you hear so much with her in that respect, if you be, choose you, the worse will be your own in the end.  
To 〈◊〉 up the whole estate of your talk it were peerless, and to trifle the time we do not intend, our answer is this, neither pity shall procure us to consider of her cause, nor exile shall be granted, to her for her offence: but only the death whereto she is adjudged. Now win her and wear her, show the best of thy manhood: but take heed of the end.  
When I perceived the sultan so fully bend, to bathe his hands in her guiltless blood, and that nothing but her death might seem to suffice him: 
Zelauto talketh to the Lady bound to the stake.  I went to the Lady, and thus I used my talk. Lady▪ neither can I warrant you life: or myself able to vanquish your enemy, but how ever it be of the death I do assure myself▪ wherefore neither faint with fear, nor forget your faith, but as you seem to be constant unto the death: so frame your petitions, the better shall I speed. If I redeem you, it is the chiefest of my desire: If I die myself, God will receive my soul. Thus neither trusting to the one, more than the other: or more accounting of life, than I do of death: I enter the field to fortify your faith, and hazard my hap, as shall please God to speed me.  
With that the Lady (whose comely and sweet countenance me thinks I yet behold) made answer unto me as here I shall tell you. 
The Lady replieth to Zelauto.  Most noble Sir, I may think myself happy to have so good a Champion: and count the field won, how ever it speed: if you foil my enemy, I have that I look for, yet if you die yourself: my state is far worse than it was before, rather had I to abide the brunt, and you to shield yourself: then to end two bodies lives, where one may suffice, so shall the enemy gorge himself with my blood: & your good will be nevertheless esteemed of. Therefore good Sir, content you, and escape hence if you can, for I am prepared to abide what it shall please them to lay on me.  
Now credit me Sir, these her words did so greatly encourage me: that had it been against Men and Monsters, yea, the furious fiends, I would have ventured what ever had betide me: 
Zelauto speaketh again to the Lady.  So than I said unto her. No Lady, what I have promised, shall be presently performed, they shall not say, that a Christian will eat his word: but that he dare venture against the proudest of them. And so far well good Lady, for here goes your worthy Knight, who before he returneth, will either subdue thy enemy: or lose his life in the field.  

Terolfo the Soldans son speaketh to Zelauto.  When the Champion saw I was returned: he came unto me saying▪ Sir, as you are a Knight at Arms, and here profess the same: so now according to the order and custom of the Law, I am to desire your name.  
Truth Sir (quoth I) and of my name I am not ashamed, my name is Zelauto, 
Zelauto his reply.  and I come to maintain the cause of this Lady. Now am I to request as much of you.  

Terolfo his reply.  Sir (quoth he) my name is Terolfo, I am son to the sultan, and here am challenger, on the behalf of my Father. I trust you will pardon what shall pass between us here in this place.  
With all my heart (quoth I) and I am not in doubt, but you will do the like, 
Zelauto forgiveth Terolfo.  for if I am ordained to die in this place: I frank and freely forgive him that doth the deed, so it be but one man.  
And if you Sir (quoth he) are the man to dispatch my days: 
Terolfo forgiveth Zelauto.  with all my heart I forgive you my death.  
Then were the Coursers sent abroad to make room, the men appointed to judge the fight, every thing in order appointed, that belongeth to the matter, we went about, he fetching his course one way, and I an other, and so we began a fierce and terrible fight.   

Then began a valiant and fierce Combat, between Zelauto, and the Soldans son Terolfo, which was so excellently well handled on both sides: that it was doubtful to whom the victory should fall, but yet at the last, after many fierce assaults, Zelauto killeth him in the open field, and so redeemed the Lady from death, and what happened to him afterward.  
WE endured so long in dangerous and doubtful fight, that he had small hope to vaunt of any victory, or I any likelihood to boast of the bargain, but credit me, he for his part very valiantly behaved himself, and deserved rightly to be well esteemed of, for neither any fear could enforce him to faint: nor weariness of war●e cause him leave of, but stoutly and courageously, behaved himself manfully.  

Zelauto killeth Terolfo in fight.  At last, it was my fortune to strike the stroke that dispatched him, the which was as great a grief unto me ● as to any of his familiar friends, for gladly would I have conquered him, & saved his life: but not both vanquish him, and bereave his life. But as you know yourself, a man in such affairs, dealeth as best he can, for the safeguard of himself, is his chiefest desire: even so I was wary lest the lot should have lighted on me, and so valiantly ●lew him before his father and all his friends.  
But to see what leaping, what clapping of hands, what throwing up of Caps, 
The Ladies and common people rejoice at the victory of Zelauto.  and what great joy was made of the Ladies and the common people, would have rejoiced you to hear. Then was the Lady let lose, and I commanded to come before the sultan, who was not before so willing to the death of the Lady: as he was now sorrowful for the ill success of his son.  
When I was come before him, he said. We confess (Sir Knight) that you have done the deed manfully; 
The words of the sultan to Zelauto.  and that you are worthy a greater reward, than here you are like to gain: but yet since you have bereft my Son of life, we must therefore deal the more hardly with you. And as the reward you must have for your victory, is death ● even so we will you to take it patiently, and not to strive, lest farther harm do arise unto you.  
If you had saved the life of my son▪ we could then have permitted more pity, than now we can, or if you had wounded him, yet that he might have lived: your freedom had been soon ●bought, where now all the riches of India is not able to do it. Yourself was not altogether ignorant before, how that the redeeming 〈◊〉 life: was the death of the party whatsoever, and we informed you, that in such sort you might behave yourself, as no man should molest you, you have now dealt so with vs● that 〈◊〉 friendship may be found, and beside, your 〈…〉 utterly condemn 〈◊〉 Yet will we somewhat use you honestly in the matter▪ you shall not presently feel the 〈◊〉 of your pain: but for the space of four days, life shall be granted you, in which time, dispose yourself to die, for there is no other means can be made for you●. Thus do we not deal with you as sharply as we might ● nor use 〈◊〉 otherwise then the Law● was appointed, she hath her life, 
 let her go where s●e please and 〈◊〉 your death, which we are sorry 〈◊〉 yet can not it be 〈◊〉  
When I had well advised myself of this sharp sentence● and that no remedy there was, but Law must proceed, then looking on all sides, and beholding the trickling hears of the modest Matrons. the 〈◊〉 and Gentlewomen 〈…〉 for me, the common people also using such pitiful 〈…〉 that it grieved them entirely to hear such woeful 〈…〉 taking heart 〈…〉, and drea●ing no misery, but trusted in my Christ assuredly: and thus I answered the sultan.  
〈…〉 of the deed that 〈…〉 
 moves of these 〈…〉 as of sufficiency 〈…〉 other I must needs abide the death, and there is no remedy: then behold me as willing to the loss of my life, as I was diligent to discharge the ladies distress. It is not my life that I do account of, nor yet my death that will return your advantage: This Ladies well far is all my desire, and my dying for her, to cause you work no more injury to her.  
But since the death of your Son is the cause of your choler, and that if he had lived, the better might have been my hap: I trust you are not ignorant what belongeth to the Law of Arms, and what passeth between us in sight ought to be pardoned. I was as unsure of my life as he, and I was as hopeful of victory as he: If then both parties do their diligence as beseemeth them, what harm either of them sustain is not to be accounted of. Therefore if for his death you deal with me extremely: I must needs say you use extremity, and no Law or justice.  
And for the four days of respite you have granted, I am to thank you, for that it is more of your clemency: then of my simple deserving, yet in the mean time I account myself but a dead man, for that your doom is passed, albeit Law is to execute.  

Zelauto giveth his fare well to all the Ladies and Gentlewomen.  Wherefore, you noble Ladies, you virtuous Damoselles, and you dear Lady, in whose defence my death is obtained, from my heart I bid you all farewell, wishing as well to your sweet selves, as to mine own poor heart, and if my time had not been cut of so soon as now it is: you should have seen that which now I am not able to unfold. In your causes I live and die, and for your sakes I have thus much attempted, therefore to you all I bid farewell. And to you all in general, whose wills I see should not want to work my well fare, I would my ability were as sufficient to pleasure you: as I would be willing with my pains to profit you.  
Then the sultan and all his train departed, and I was conducted with a dozen Officers, 
Zelauto & his Host were lead to prison.  with their Halberds to my lodging, where when I was unarmed: both mine Host and I were lead to the prison, such a multitude of people following us, and such good report every one gave me: that credit me, I went as willing to the prison, as to my lodging.  
At the prison gate I saw Mica Sheffola (the ladies Brother, 
Mica Sheffola awaited for Zelauto at the prison.  for whom I adventured) awaiting my coming, who had provided for me, the best and pleasantest Chamber in the prison, and got me the liberty of the Garden, to walk at my pleasure, and at last rounded me in the ear saying. Good Sir, fear no danger, for God and I will hence deliver you, but I am sorry for your Host, because he is already apprehended unto the sultan, 
The Host apprehended & must die.  and his Majesty told unto me even now when I departed from him: that to morrow he shall be executed before the prison. I dare tarry no longer for fear of being suspected, I have provided all things for you here, & to morrow I will come again, about the hour he must die.  
Alas me thought these were far wursser news, than the other, I could not speak to mine Host, because he was haled and pulled in so violently, and laid in a deep dungeon by himself, and clogged with so many Irons, as he could possibly bear.  
Well, 
The Hostess cometh to the prison to Zelauto.  in the after noon, my Hostess Dania came to speak with her Husband, but could not, then came she up to me, informing me of all that Mica Sheffola had told me. I demanded of her, how he was known? She answered, that for the words he used in my cause, & other suspicious talk. Well (quoth I) you were not best to tarry here long, lest you be suspected likewise. No Sir (quoth she) I will bid you far well till to morrow, and then shall you see my poor Husband miserably martyred.  
In the morning returned Mica Sheffola, bringing me a great deal of Gold to spend in the prison, 
Mica Sheffola returneth in the morning.  and demanded of me, how I was used in the prison? I answered, very well I thanked him, for his sake I wanted nothing. Then he desired the jailor to let me into a Chamber toward the street, that I might see mine Host put to death, the which I thank him he did.  
Then (quoth he unto me) without the City, I have provided for you ● lusty G●urser, and Armour to defend you with all, soon at midnight, at the dead time of the night, shall you be let into the Garden, and there climb over to me, and I will receive you, for I have gotten the keys of the Soldans Treasury, and soon at midnight will I steal from thence so much as shall serve you in your travail: A dear friend of mine, and one as good a Christian as myself shall go with you, to conduct you on your way from all your enemies, thus will I fulfil my promise unto you, and yet not work myself any discredit: 
An notable devise to help Zelauto out of prison.  so that you be ready at the how●e appointed▪ for the jailers Wife will let you into the Garden, and so on the back side of the City you shall escape away safely. Then a mighty hole shall be broken in your Chamber, as though you had stolen out into the street: I dare tarry no longer, remember yourself soon, and so God be with you.  
Now surely me thought it was the greatest friendship that ever I found at any man's ●andes in all my life, especially, I being a prisoner, and he to defraud his own Uncle in such sort to pleasure me with all.  

The Host brought forth to death.  Well, at length my Host Manniko Rigustello, was brought out in his shirt, and such a multitude of people was there to see him: as was the other day to see the Lady. Then went he up upon the scaffold, where they would not suffer him to speak▪ but presently laid him upon an Engine that they had made: and so wrested him to death, very cruelly and tyrannically.  
When he was dead, one member of him was thrown this way, an other that way, so that all his members was dispersed about the streets, a very grievous and dolesyght to see. Thus was my poor Host martyred and mangled, and I remained in great sorrow to think thereupon.   

The Gentlewoman of the Prison came up to Zelauto, and to expel the thoughts that troubled his mind: conducted him into the Garden, and showed him the Monuments of Brisaro de Saroto, who sometime was conqueror of that City.  
Remaining in these pensive plights, yet greatly encouraged through the comfort that Mica Sheffola gave me: 
Oriana the Mistress of the prison came up to Zelauto.  at last came up into my Chamber the Gentleman's wife, who kept the prison, being named Oriana, a very gallant & courteous Gentlewoman, who in the Italian language, thus saluted me. Ditemi per cortesia Gentilhuomo, come sta vostra S.? I answered. Carrissima mia Signora, sto been, sempre all commando vostro▪ evi rendo mill gratie. After much conference passed between us together (quoth she) shall it like you so well Gentleman, as to walk with me into the Garden.  
Gentlewoman (quoth I) if I would deny so small a request: I were to be accounted very uncourteous. Not so (quoth she) for perhaps other occasions may so hinder you: that you have not the leisure which I seem to require, and then I might be accounted more careless than circumspect, in entering so rashly to perturb your patience. You do well good Gentlewoman (quoth I) to frame yourself so faulty: else should not I have known how to accuse myself.  
Well, we walked into the Garden, where she gave me to understand of that which Mica Sheffola had told me, 
Oriana telleth Zelauto, how at night she will convey him over the garden wall  and that she at the middle of the night, would convey me into the Garden, and so over the wall to him. I gave her great thanks for her courtesy, as it did chiefly behove me. At last, she opened a great door, where as we entered into a very fair Hall, and there was the Monuments of a notable Champion.  

In life I won the type of high Renown:  
And now in death I wear dame honours Crown.   
Lo Sir (quoth she) the redoubted Monuments of Brisaro de Saroto, 
She showeth him the Monuments of Brisaro de Saroto.  who conquered this City eleven times, and framed the good orders, that now here are used. Gentlewoman (quoth I) it seemeth that he hath been a noble Champion, & I thank you heartily for making me partaker of the sight thereof. With other familiar talk we passed out the time till supper, than went I to supper, 
She cometh up bidding him to prepare himself.  and afterward I laid me down upon my bed. About the third hour of the night, came she up, & told me that Mica Sheffola had entered into her Garden with a great deal of Treasure, and there he had left it, desiring me to provide myself within an hour.  
I thanked her heartily, and told her, I would be as ready when she came to fetch me: as she was willing to come for me. I could not lay mine eyes together for the joy I conceived, to think how God had blessed me, in sending me such friends among all mine enemies.  
Within an hour after, she came up very softly again, saying: Come a way Sir▪ your friend faryeth your coming. It was no need to bid me make haste, considering I should escape so hard a plunge.   

Zelauto with Oriana the Mistress of the prison went down into the Garden, at the middle of the night, and was conveyed over to Mica Sheffola, and so escapeth from his enemies.  
WHen I was come down into the Garden, finding a Ladder ready set for me to climb over: I took leave of the Gentlewoman, and so went over the wall, there stood Mica Sheffola at hand to receive me. Quoth he, for the love of God let us make all haste possible, for the Trumpets hath sounded the third watch, and now will they come without the City: and if we speed not the faster, we are like to be taken.  
We trudged apace till we came out of all danger, and at last we came where one held a lusty Courser for me, 
Zelauto goeth with Mica Sheffola away.  and Armour lay ready for me to put on, and a little before was a Companion for me, who awaited the coming of any body, to give us warning thereof. When I was Armed and upon Horseback (quoth he) though I have not recompensed with as much as I would: yet have I done what possible I might: there is one before shall live and die with you, he will conduct you toward Constantinople. Thus willing to prevent all dangers that may happen, and wishing you prosperity in all your affairs: a short fare well shall suffice, and so to God I commend you.  

Zelauto departeth from Mica Sheffola.  Well Sir (quoth I) I will not trifle out the time with long and tedious thanks, I am bound to pray for you, commend me to mine Hostess Dania, & to the good Gentlewoman Oriana, that conveyed me over the wall, and so we both parted.  
Within a while I over took my Companion, who was as honest, virtuous and civil a Gentleman as ever I road with all in my life. He and I road together toward Constantinople, in which journey befell divers other accidents. Thus have you heard my first adventures in Persia: now tell me your judgement thereof.  Astraepho. 
My judgement is too slender in such a miraculous matter, 
Astraepho giveth his censure on this passed tale, and goeth to provide dinner.  but sure you have had the best Fortune that ever I heard any, so near the death: and yet to be delivered, now credit me it is excellent. Well, now will I go to get our Dinner, and will leave you here till I come again, in which time you shall peruse a proper Devise that I will show you. How say you, are you contented?  Zelauto. 
Sir, right joyful of your courtesy, also glad to accept your offer, and after Dinner we will discourse of the rest, if you please.  Astraepho. 
With all my heart Sir, wherefore come in and I will give it you, I believe you will like well of it after you have read it.   
FINIS.   

The Author, to the courteous Readers.  
GEntlemen (and right courteous whatsoever) I must needs confess, that the painful Pilgrimage of Zelauto, hath been so tedious unto you in the perusing, that neither could you gain any delight in the discourses: nor such method of matter as you looked for, but even plain Dunstable way, he hath told you an old Canterbury tale. Yet on your judgements I am not to define, for that they are divers: nor to suppose you will like, without I were better assured, for the one may show the rashness of a vainglorious head: and the other a presumption to construe any man's behaviour. Antisthenes' saith, that as of the Serpent, the Physician receiveth part of his remedies: so the wise man of his very enemies (contrary to expectation) shall obtain some profit. Diogenes being by a malicious and spiteful tongue, reprehended of a fault long before committed: made answer. I remember the time when I was such a one as thou art now: but such an one as I am now wilt thou never be.  
Likewise Gentlemen, ambitious heads, are apt to send forth spiteful speeches, and if they can possible catch a hole in a man's coat: the same will they lay every day in his dish: But such secret Serpents in bewraying their behaviour, can not hurt him whom they willingly would: but confound them in their craftiest inventions. Aristotle saith, that he which receiveth a false piece of coin, doth but sustain a reasonable loss: but he that trusteth a feigned friend in steed of a true, may endamage himself to his utter undoing, few such friend's God send me: and as much good money as shall please him. But now in the mean while Gentlemen, while such coin may be currant, and such friends found: I send you Astraephos delicate discourse, to make merry with the bad banquet you have had. And though I have no Cumfettes and Caraways to bestow upon you: judge my good will is nevertheless, if might could maintain it. Thus of a little take a little when you come thereto: and of a little leave a little how ever you do.  
FINIS.  
Yours to use to his power. A. Monday.   

Astraepho. A delicate Devise by him delivered to Zelauto, wherein is gallantly discoursed, the Amorous life of a Scholar, and the brave behaviour of a martial Gentleman, the one at last by love aswell convinced: as the other, who always professed himself a Subject to the same: neither frivolous nor fantastical, but delyghtfull, and to no man prejudicial.  
¶ The third part of the Fountain of Fame.  
Written by the said Author A. M. Servant to the right Honourable, the Earl of Oxenford.  
Honos alit Artes.   

The Author.  
COurteous Gentlemen, in the mean time as Astraepho is providing his Dinner, and hath left Zelauto at home to peruse at his pleasure on an Amorous discourse: I will seem so saucy, as to molest his studies, and desire him to let you be partakers of this delicate discourse. I hope I shall not need to be all day in craving: nor he so uncourteous to deny my request, if he should, I must confess he offereth me great injury, in taking so much pains for him: I deserve to crave a mightier matter. Well, I will assure myself to speed in my purpose, and you shall have the hearing of the Dainty Devise. If after you have read it, you find it worth his hire, and that it hath pleased you, which is my whole wish: I shall then provide a Peach for all prating Parasites: and keep a sweet Fig to gratify my friend with all.  Honos alit Artes. 
FINIS.  
A. Monday.   

The Amorous life of Strabino a Scholar, the brave behaviour of Rodolfo a martial Gentleman, and the right reward of Signior Truculento a Usurer. Cap. 1.  
THe Records of ancient antiquity, unfoldeth in apert, and lively manner the happy and prosperous estate, of the flourishing and famous City Verona, whose Academies so worthily governed, and the Scholars so effectually instructed: that it caused Sir Vincentio of Pescara, to send his son Strabino, there to be trained up in such virtuous educations: as was meet for one of his tender time. This Strabino, a gallant & lusty youth, of form well featured, of audacity expert, in manners well nurtured, but from Martial affairs wholly inclined, & to love one severely entrhalled: fell at length in acquaintance with one Rodolfo, a Gentleman's son of the City, who more used the School for his pleasure, than any profit, more for a pastime to talk● & confer with his friends: then for any mind he bore to his book. And this Rodolfo was one that greatly gave himself to Martial exercises, a disdayner of love, and a reiecter of the company of Women. Between these twain were joined such a league of Amity: that neither bitter blasts should procure the breach thereof, nor any accident whatsoever, move them to mislike one of the other, but even brotherlyke were united, till term of life were utterly expired. Strabino usually frequenting the house of his friend and brother Rodolfo, who had a Sister in all points so well proportioned: that the looks of her Amorous countenance, infected in the heart of Strabino, such a restless rage, a ●orting torment, a Fever so fantastical: that none but only she must be the curer thereof. Now are his books rejected, and his fancy followed: his study banished, & the Gentlewoman dutifully served Who (alas) although he were her superior: of her was regarded, as her far inferior. He likes, he loves, he sues, he serves, he runs, he waits: she lowers, she frowns, she disdains, and utterly rejecteth his company. Which when he saw, that his proffered pains were esteemed as trifles, his continual courtesy, regarded as light as a feather, and his affectioned service, clean cast out of memory: walked into the fields, and thus discoursed with himself.  
Alas Strabino, ill hap hadst thou to light on this luckless lot, to love where thou art disliked, to serve, where thou art nothing regarded, and to fancy where love is extinguished. What moved thee to make her thy Goddess that regardeth thy pains as light as a May game? What moved thee to make her thy Mistress: who scorneth the good will of so trusty a servant? What, is there no more Women in the world but one? Is there none can please thee so much as she? Art thou framed of such ill-favoured metal, that all will mislike thee? In Pescara thou barest the chiefest praise: in Verona thou art nothing esteemed of. In Pescara thou wast loved, in Verona thou art rejected: but alas I remember, who trusteth to a Woman's will, were as good lean on a broken staff, for when she pleaseth, than she loveth: and when she is displeased, she hateth like a Toad, therefore well mayst thou remove thy fancy: & set as light by her, as she doth by thee. But alas Strabino, if thy deeds might answer to thy words, than there were some hope of health: but thou art so surely tied, that unpossible were it for thee to get lose when thou pleasest, thou sayest thou wilt do this & that, but alas, if thou couldst, thou wouldst, therefore never speak against thy conscience. for that were no credit. I love her so entirely, that I can not refrain me: I fancy so forcibly, that I cannot remove me. She is the Saint whom I serve, she is the Goddess whom I adore, & she it is must ease my pain, else shall I never be helped. Thou hast not yet tried her: therefore never speak the worst of her, though thou hast shown thyself by sundry signs: yet canst thou not say she refuseth thee, because thou hast not opened the state wherein thy well fare standeth. Thou art to blame to use these words against her that never offended thee, and thou deservest small courtesy, for thy so rash judgement. She is sister to thy friend: he is gentle of nature, so may she be: he is courteous in conference, so may she be: he loves thee well, so may she do, therefore never construe things at the worst, before thou have occasion. Thinkest thou she knoweth the secrets of thy heart, that never talked with her? How were it possible she should love thee, when she knoweth not whether thou loovest her or no? Persuade thyself to speed of thy purpose, faint heart never won fair Lady, and a half hearted Soldier is terrified at the first alarum: first prove her, then praise her, when thou hast tried, than thou mayst trust: high thee home in hope, & finding her at convenient leisure, show her thy suit. Thus the poor oppressed Strabino returned to the Mansion of his Mistress, & finding her sitting at her Sampler in the garden: he took heart a fresh, and went and sat down by her, framing such devices, as she might have occasion to speak unto him, who when she saw how merrily disposed he was, said. Surely sir Strabino, I have wanted your company all this day, for I have sitten here very solitary, and lacked such company as might procure some pleasure, & now you are come: I hope we shall pass the time more merrier, than hitherto I have done, and therefore you are welcome heartily.  
Strabino hearing the courteous words of his Lady Cornelia: was surprised with such inward joy, that he neither minded his former fear, nor yet the present peril that might hap to him, but wholly depending upon his dutiful allegiance, and embracing in mind & thought her supposed liking: hazardeth his heart to stand unto the hap, and yieldeth him conquered wholly to her clemency. Wherefore, he neither distracting his senses with any several motion, nor occupying his brain upon manifold matters: desireth pardon for that which his lips shall yield unto liberty, and her good construction in his actions whatsoever.  
Sir (quoth she) if we talk of familiarity, perforce I must use you friendly: if upon novels, I will handle you as nicely: if upon present proof, I will use you pleasantly: if upon all, I will account you as a merry companion, so that look what is spoken in decent or honest wise: doubt you not but it shall be as honestly entertained, therefore say as pleaseth you.   

Strabino, and Cornelia, courteously conferreth together. Cap. 2.  
LAdy (quoth Strabino) I muse why the Gods, framing you first to be as a comfortable companion unto man: you should so much digress as to be the only instrument of our sorrowful sadness, rather a worker of our woe: than one that wisheth our well fare. For this is perfectly known (I speak not upon had I witted) that you Women, for the most part, are so coy of your conditions, and so curious in your conceits: that you neither esteem the quantity nor quality of affection: nor yet the only perfect ground of our prosperity. For admit that a while you bear us in hand with many an Amorous countenance, many a gallant glóse of firm faith and fidelity, yea, many a subtle surmise of pure love and affection, have you once gotten that which you would have, to fleece our purses to prank you in pride, that you may sweat in your silks, while we go threadbare, you on your Pantofles, when we have scant a good shoe to our foot, you at your delicate iunckets, when we are glad to rise with empty bellies, and you so much in your bravery, that you bring us to utter beggary: In faith, then far well frost, more such have we lost.  
Nay now, since he can hold out no longer: far well he, in faith he was a good fellow while he had it, but now since he hath no more ink in his pen: let him go shake his ears, a new customer, a new. So long time was he fed with fancies: that after he curseth his folly. So long loved in looks: that at length he lamenteth his loss. So long held up with wanton and wily words: that in the end he curseth such paltry fables. A cold suit, and a hard penniwoorth have all they that traffic for such merchandise. On the other side, let a man hold up you at rack staves, diferre you of with doubtful delays, allege unto you many defects of ability, and besides that, keep that from you which most willingly you would have: In faith, than he is a counterfeit crank, a shameless shéepbyter, a worldly miser, he is no good fellow, that will not lay his penny by theirs, a craking Companion, an eve dropper: with such and so many flouts they have, that it is wonderful to hear.  
What great reproach is this to such wanton Women, that regard more an ell of pleasure, than an inch of profit? more desirous of loathsome liberty, than they care for contented living? What maketh so many young Gentlemen crack their credit, lose their good name, mortgage their livings, barter away all they have: but such careless company? When before, they were in good and honest commendation among all men: now are they glad to hide their heads for shame.  
I speak not this (dear Lady) to the reproach of all Women: for that were mere impudency: but I speak in the contempt of all such as daily frequent it, as these Cortizans which abide in the brothel house here in Verona, & besides them, many a one that bears a gallant grace through the City: taketh a snatch now and then, which by right deserve a greater reproach, than they that so daily use it. For by such means is vice intruded among the virtuous, making many that (God knows) are well disposed livers, to be lightly accounted of, only by using the company of such careless creatures.  
Sir Strabino (quoth Cornelia) your discourse hath been delyghtfull, yet savoureth it sharp some where, belike you have been bitten, or stung by some of these Wasps: and that maketh you so expert in bewraying their qualities, for the mother would never have sought her daughter in the Oven, but that she had been there herself, and he that is galded, hath good occasion to kick. You have been bartering, & found all so dear in the market: that no butter will stick on your bread, or belike you have sauced some body: and paid sweetly for it.  
But what maketh you to exclaim against women in this order? have you loved, and not been loved again? have you sought for honey, & caught the be by the tail: or have you never loved, and wholly given yourself there against? if so you have, the harder is your hap, for far unable are you to stand against the decree of the gods, and have you not read of divers that have repugned against love: which have been enforced to fancy their inferiors? Take heed Strabino, lest in your denying to love some gallant Lady: you be not procured to fancy some poor Fachine here in Verona. If you have loved, & not been loved again: you are to move your suit, and if it be to such a one who is free from all other, and may well be your match: there is no doubt but after many sharp showers, a gallant gale of wind will blow in the Sky, that will send your joys on heaps to you. I give you the best counsel that I can, and I would my proffered pains any way might pleasure you. If either my word, counsel, credit, or aught else may prevail you to her whom you like: credit me, you shall not find me so ready in promising, as I will be in the performance thereof.  
Now Gentlemen, judge you what sundry & several quandaries assailed the assaulted mind of poor Strabino, to hear such courteous talk pronounced by the person whom he most honoured and obeyed. Yet doubted he, that if she knew the very original and only help for his heaviness: she would be as slow to perform, as she was ready to promise, but yet building still on good hope of her bounty: he proceeded into farther talk.  
My hope is (quoth he) my good Lady & Mistress, that what hath passed in my presumptuous talk, you will construe it at the best: but sure as yet I am free from that which you have supposed, only this I am to confess, that I love & like, where I am neither refused nor yet entertained, wherefore I can not condemn upon no occasion: nor I can not praise before it be deserved. So that I am neither to vaunt as victor: nor yet to yield as altogether conquered. And why I have envy against these sort of Women, I can yield you some sufficient reason: I have known divers of my friends, that have wasted out their web of youthful time, in frequenting company with such wilful Women. As for example, one dear friend of mine, who was tossed, turmoiled, and utterly made havoc of: among those whom he thought had loved him dearest, yea some that were of good name and credit, that sucked him dry: & then matched themselves with other. Therefore I say, it is hard to know who a man may trust now a days: for you Women are so crafty, that a man cannot tell how to deal with you.  
In deed Sir (quoth she) though we be crafty, you men are more deceitful. It behoveth us to stand upon our reputation, and to make the matter nice and coy to some, for when they have once caught us: they will use us as they list. What sorrow and care is it to be a married Wife? that which God hath ordained to be a comfort and solace between man and woman, is made now a thing of most contempt: for when we be married, then cometh our cares all at once: how many frowning looks? how many crabbed countenances? how many sharp words? beside, how many continual griefs and sorrows of the mind? If our Husbands be a little displeased: all the house must be out of quiet. If he frown, than what is next hand, flies at the face of his Wife. If he see her but merrily disposed in any company, then is he jealous: if she look on any man, than she lusteth after him. Then is she watched and spied, in every place where she goeth, to catch her in a trip, the which urgeth her sooner to do it, when before she never thought it. What terror, & what devilish minds are these of men: who when they come to wooing, then plead they simplicity: then yea forsooth, and no forsooth, this shall be and that shall be, when God knows, when it comes to perfection: it is neither so, nor so.  
Can you blame Women, if they be so loath to grant to your requests? and can you think them so hard, when you yourselves are harder than the Adamant? Can you say Women are ordained as a plague unto men: when as you yourselves plague them so cruelly? O deep dissemblers, O prating Parasites? What subtle Sophisters? What fair mouthed fellows are these? What painted sheaths, fair without & fowl within? Who would think that you could bear such a double heart about with you. I hope you shall be fain to say at length, Ars deluditur arte. Henceforth therefore never envy at Women: when you are worse your selves, nor never play the Cravens, as Cocks of your own dunghill: the shame will redound where it is worthy, and you shall be forced to cry Peccavi. Ah Sirrah, though you have all the learning, God hath leaned us some wit, that we should not be to much deceived. Therefore never upbraid us with such Rhetorical gloss, nor never fall out with those who are your best friends: If you like us, love us: if not, let us alone.  
Strabino, half driven in fear of incurring his ladies displeasure, and doubting lest his talk had bread some cause of melancholy: calls up his wits together, to make amends for his former fault. For thought he, if now I coming to speak for mine own avail, and to gain the good will of my best beloved, should seem to apprehend or reprehend in such causes as willingly she would not: it might mar all my matter, and throw all my good Fortune into the fire. Wherefore, even as the child when he hath made a fault, cometh creeping on his knees with bitter tears, willing to kiss the rod▪ & so to pacify the ire of his Parents whom he displeased, or as the Ape when he hath nipped one to the quick, and seeth the whip holden up in sign of correction: cometh with chattering the tooth, holding up the ten bones, so to content his masters displeasure conceived: Even so meekly and mildly cometh Strabino to the loving lap of his Lady, and in sign & token of humility, uttereth these words. Dear Lady & Mistress, not so well satisfied & contented with your reasonable reply: as sorrowful for suffering my tongue so rashly to offend you. Rather impute it therefore to obliviousness of myself: then to any willingness so incur your anger. More honour truly shall it be to you, quietly to put up the chollorike words of an impudent Scholar: then to menace your anger, where as sorrow sufficient is retained. It is a good Horse that never stumbleth, he is very circumspect that speaketh always without a fault, and he is very upright that never committeth crime. I must confess my tongue ran before my wit, and my mouth uttered that which my heart never thought. But the best is, my boasting bravery, can blemish none of your bounty: nor my frantic foolishness, impair any of your virtuous credit. But all is well that is well taken, little said is soon amended, and so I pray you pardon your penitent, and sorrowful offender.  
Sir Strabino (quoth she) for this fault, you have already obtained pardon, it was not so grievously taken as you thought for: nor it was not so fault worthy as now you grant it. I am not to exact the uttermost of any man: nor I am not to conceive an anger before just cause be offered, for you know, that what talk so ever we use, that doth not stretch beyond the bounds of honest and allowable reason: by promise is to be esteemed of no effect, therefore I discharge that Obligation of his full strength and virtue, and stick to the promise passed. Marry, yet am I on the other side, to think well of you, that stood in such awe of displeasing her: who was far more afraid of incurring your anger. We women are not to be too captious nor to quarrelous, neither to hasty, nor to slow, for it were no point of civility to handle our friends churlishly, and it were mere folly to quip them upon no greater occasion. first, we are to understand the efficient cause that urgeth them to speak, & to way it thoroughly in the wayghts of modesty: and so to give answer, that we be neither found to scripilous in the one, nor to coy in the other. I know you are my friend, and so I esteem you, and as my friend I make account of you, than never think that I your friend will seem to construe your meaning at the worst: nor yet to condemn you upon no greater occasion. I can not deny but that some are very apt to anger, to receive a matter ill, be it never so well spoken, that doth demonstrate a great error in her that useth it, whatsoever: and condemneth her of impudency, for her so light belief. Soft fire (they say) maketh sweet malt, a wise Woman will way all with discretion: but a fool will be hasty, and to troublesome to deal with all. Wise Cato saith, Bridle thine anger with modesty, and judge not of a matter too rashly, for as there is great commendation in the one: so is there great shame followeth the other. It is a seemly thing for every one to use their anger with discretion: because (perchance) it may redound to their discredit. Thus Strabino suffice yourself, that the coals of my anger were soon kindled and soon quenched. For if I should be angry with you: you might account it but the rashness of a Woman, and her want of foresight, and so I pray you take it,  
Strabino, perceiving the courteous excuse of Cornelia, and that his passed talk was taken in such gentle gree: thought it now good time to prefer his suit, and so desiring her patience, proceeded as followeth.   

Strabino now offereh his love and service to his Lady, requiring the courteous acception thereof. Cap. 3.  
THen dear Lady, since neither my rude behaviour hath offended you, nor my passed presumption purchased any ill will: I hope I may under authority of your licence, proceed to the very ground and effect of all which I have to unfold. For since your wisdom hath weighed each cause so discreetly, and construed the meaning thereof with such good demeanour: I will make you partner of my passed perils, and of the distress that may ensue (always provided) that you accept and conceive no worse than I think it. Since it hath been my hap (dear Lady) here in Verona, to pass my time in studious exercise, according to the long desired wish of my Parents: I have one way profited, and an other way procured my peril, for casting mine eyes among the renowned troop of gallant Dames, (as here are many) the bountiful beauty of one among all the rest, hath so searched the secrets of my hidden heart, & bewitched my wits in such wonderful wise: that neither medicines may serve to mitigate, herbs, or any Physical potion adiunate to amendment: but only that sovereign salve which most doth delight me, her little finger would life me to life, a word of her mouth would cease all my sorrows, and one question absolved: would make me a sufficient Scholar. I presume in place, where I behold this seemly she: and the more I come in her company: the greater increaseth my care, the more I look: the more I like, but liking brings such restless woe: that were it not I had a soul to save, and that I stand in awe of the anger of God: I should finish this Tragedy, with such a merciless massacring of my poor self, that neither should she vaunt of the loss of my life: nor I be thought to demerit so direful a death. But what needeth all these words? to what end do I make this tedious protestation my help is never the more furthered, but by talking of her I am the more endamaged.  
Ah Sir (quoth Cornelia) is the wind in the door now? are you Sea sick so soon, & not half a mile over? well, well, this little spark will flame to so fierce a fire: that perhaps all the wit you have is not able to quench it. Why Lady (quoth he) I am not so far over shoes: but I may return yet dry, nor I am not so far in, but I may easily escape out, there is more ways to the wood than one, and passages wherein are no peril. I shall use myself in extremity as I see occasion: and doubt you not my wit shall stand for a warrant. Sir (quoth she) the crafty Fox would eat no grapes, no though they fell in his mouth, the Cat will eat no sweet milk, for fear of marring her teeth: so you would not be in love, no though you might, and when you are in, you will love as your list.  
O Sir, soft fire makes sweet Malt, it is ill to halt before a Cripple, and it were shame to belie the Devil. Your own words doth condemn you in that you have spoken: or else you are very impudent, that you speak you know not what. Medicines you say, can make no amendment, the force of Physic to help you doth fail, and yet you say, there is one sovereign salve can minister a remedy. O crafty head, your tooth will not let your tongue lie, in faith it is almost time to bid you good night. Yet to see how you will maintain your matter with wresting of words, you would make me believe the Moon is made of green cheese: In faith Sir no, you must rise somewhat more early, if you go beyond me: and you must deal more subtly, if you seek to deceive me. But truly if you were as mighty a man of your deed, as you are of your word: Verona would be little enough to hold you, and never a Woman of them all durst abide your stern countenance. You do well, you will hold with the Hare, and run with the Hound, and you would play Ambidexter, if you could tell how, but in faith Sir I have you at my finger's end, even as perfect without book as you are within.  
Strabino with this passed tale was so nipped in the head, that he had scant any thing to say, & when he saw she was so crafty, that his subtle Sophistry did deceive him: he would with all his heart have been far enough from her presence: or that his talk were to begin again. For albeit he was a man stout of his person: yet they that had seen him now, would have thought he had neither life nor soul left in him. Which when Cornelia beheld how sadly he sat, and would speak never a word, how his colour went and came, as though he had line a dying: thought it no courtesy to let him languish so: but to give him a fresh encouragement to revive up his spirits. Why Sir Strabino (quoth she) is your heart in you hose? Is your courageous countenance so soon changed to pale and wanny cheeks? Your face makes appearance of your grievous disease, and your looks bewray you, that you are in love. But what of that? never dismay yourself with any doubting dread, nor let not my talk so seem to to trouble you, if I have made a fault: I ask you forgiveness, and if I have displeased you: I will do so no more. You know, promise was made, that all should be well accepted, that pertained to no harm, and that which should pass between us: should not be offensive to either. I for my part am not offended with any thing spoken: and if you are, truly you be to blame. I will leave your company, if you be not more merry, and will forsake hereafter any more to frequent it. Shake hands and be friends again, and tell me who she is that you so faithfully love: I will stand your friend perhaps in the matter, and if of myself I am not able to do it: I will inform those of it, who (doubt you not) shall bring it to effect.  
With that Strabino revived himself out of his brown study, and began smugly to hold up the head, right willing he left his so sudden quandary: and began to look up with a sensorical countenance. His heart that before lay in a hole: was now ready for joy to leap out at his mouth, his mind that erst was pinched with passions: was now so jocund, that it danced with joy, and his colour that before was as pale as ashes: began now as fresh as the redolent Rose, every member which before seemed maimed: he could now stretch out to the ninth degree. And if his present service might have won him a Wife: he was able to discharge it, & that to the uttermost, beside, his conceits began to come so nimbly together: that he now rolled in his Rhetoric, like a Flea in a blanket. (Ah courteous Cornelia (quoth Strabino) how much am I bound in duty to your seemly self? How much am I indebted to your prudent parsonage? that with such sweet persuasions, such maidenly and modest motions, such heroical and singular actions: hath loosed to liberty a discouraged prisoner, and hath revived him to life, who was almost past all hope of recovery.  
Excellent was the opinion of Valerius Maximus, who commended the friendly deeds, done in adversity, as for prosperity will secure itself. Myself may be witness, in advancing, your fréendlines, whose adversity was uncurable: had I not obtained council of so prudent a Physician. I thank you for your friendly offer, wishing I were able to countervail it as I would, and that my might were correspondent to my well meaning intent: then should you see the depth of my desire, and have occasion to think you should not pass unrewarded The Lady whom I love will be won to your will, the Saint whom I serve: will fulfil your request, and the least word of your mouth, will bind up the bargain. So that do you but speak: I speed, do you say yea, and I shall have no nay, so much dare I crack of her credit, and boast of her bounty: that you can not so soon say the word: but she will willingly do the deed.  
Cornelia smiling at this gallant gloze, and having half a conjecture at what mark he aimed to shoot at: framed such an answer as she thought best herself, and to make Strabinos' suit never the near. The foolish Fly (quoth she) so long jesteth with the Candle, that at last she sindgeth herself, the silly Mouse wandereth oft so far abroad: that she is taken tardy before she come home, and the Nightinggale singeth so sweetly, till she fall in a sleep, and so oftentimes is caught at unawares. Likewise, I have held you here so long with a pleasant tale, that you make me half mistrust myself. If your Lady be so wilful, to be won to my will, and so courteous that she will come at my call, yea, if I say the word, you ask no better bargain: either I must conjecture, that her affection is greater to me then to you: or that she would claim assurance of me for your good behaviour. Now credit me Strabino, you are wily in your words: yet not so crafty, but I conceive your meaning.  
Qui simulat verbis, nec cord est fidus Amicus:  
●u quoque fac simile: sic Ars delùditur arte.  
But yet Strabino, let these matters pass, and to come to the point, whereupon we have stood so long, name me your Lady, what she is, and where she dwelleth: then shall you hear farther what I will do for you. If so be (quoth Strabino) you will promise me no good will shall want on your part, to the fulfilling my request, and that you will not hinder the matter I have in hand: I will show you the sweet she, whose captive I am, and to whose love I am thus entirely entangled. Sir (quoth she) Qui ante non cavit, post dolebit, A man may love his house well, though he ride not on the roof, and a man may make a good Mart, yet be no great gainer. There goeth more words to a bargain than one, and other prayers to be used beside the Pater noster, when you have told me your tale: you shall see what I will say, and though I make you no promise: doubt not but I will please you.  
Then took Strabino up her glass that hung at her Girdle, and therein he framed many an Amorous countenance. At last (quoth Cornelia) what fancies find you there, that makes you so pleasant? or have you a delight in beholding your own face? Nay (quoth he) not for the fancy I find in mine own face: but for the comely countenance that consisteth in my Lady and Mistress. And have you found her face there (quoth she) I pray you let me see her, to judge if I know her. After Cornelia had looked a while, she said. Why Strabino, you promised I should see that seemly she, to whom you own such delightful love & loyalty. And what I promised (quoth he) hath been here performed. As how (quoth she) Whose face (quoth he) did you behold when I showed you? why yours and mine own (quoth she) I thought it would come to such a pass, well I will speak to her, & if she chance to give her consent: doubt you not but you shall hear of it. But one thing I can tell ye, & that you shall perfectly prove, how she is wedded to her will, and married to her own mind: that she had rather live a maiden still, then be bidden to so bad a breakfast.  
That were against reason (quoth he) that she should be so married to her mind: as not to respect one so good as herself, or that in disdaining so good a breakfast, be forced to come to a courser dinner. A little pittance in the morning: is better than to be fasting all day, and perhaps, a good strong stake struck in the hedge in Summer: will stand for a good defence in the Winter.  
Albeit Sir (quoth she) you are her better: yet she thinks it not against reason to like before she love, and though it be not expedient to give the children's bread to dogs: yet will they lick the crumbs that falls from their masters table. And beside she thinks, that if she keep her stomach for a good supper: she shall not take surfeit of her fasting all day. Likewise, though the strong stake do well fortify the hedge for Winter: yet if the stake be without other defence: the Beasts will easily get over and spoil the pasture, and so in time utterly undo the owner.  
Strabino having well and sufficiently pondered her talk: thought now he would not discourage himself with the diversity of her devices, but even as his heart served him he would make her an answer. Why Lady (quoth he) do you misdoubt of my bountiful behaviour? or that I am such a one as regardeth not my honesty? Think you if I would make my choice, I could not have as good as you, or if my mind had been so addicted, ere this I could not have been sped? think you all Women are of your mind? or that they will dislike upon no occasion? No credit me, Cornelia (I speak Bonafide) if my stomach had served: I could have been soon sufficed, and if all Women were of your mind: I should have but a cold suit with my wooing. But belike you are betrothed already: and that makes you so dainty, if you be tell me, that I may lose no more labour.  
Truly Sir Strabino (quoth she) if as yet I am betrothed: it is more than I know, what my Parents have done, I know not, but as yet I can assure you, there is no such matter meant by me. But what of that, you are never the nearer your purpose, nor yet the likelier to gain my good will, you are a gallant Gentleman, well known in Verona, wherefore you may chance to light on a better booty, and doubt you not but there are those, who with all their hearts would have you. Wherefore good Sir, never feed your humours on such a homely piece: since there be more delicate damsels that will not deny you. But now it draws toward supper time, and occasion is so offered: that perforce I must leave you, desiring you not to deem any discourtesy, that I leave your company so soon.  
Nay (quoth Strabino) I am not to conceive the worst of your departure: but rather to thank you, that vouchsafed my company so long, no anger I trust is conceived for my superfluous speech: but rather pardoned for that no dishonesty was meant. Thus thanking you a thousand times for your courtesy offered: till Fortune so frame our next meeting together, I commend you to God, whom I pray grant me my wish, and you the depth of your desire.  
Thus Gentlemen is Cornelia and Strabino parted, he taking the way home to his Chamber: and she speedeth herself that she were at supper, but so sour a sauce she had given Strabino: that the sharpness turned his stomach from minding any meat. It is not strange to see what a metamorphosis love maketh of a man? that he which erst might have bragged with the best: is now become to careful for any company, he which erst walked the streets with a gallant grace: now pulleth his bonnet over his brows, that none may behold his sudden alteration? He which before lived merrily, faring with the finest, and delighting in the daintiest: now scant eateth a good meals meat in a month. He cometh to his Chamber, throweth himself on his bed, encumbered with so many cares, that it is unspeakable: at last unto himself talketh in this order.  
O God, where are become the lofty looks I used before I was a lover? Where are the curious countenances, the weighty words, the dainty dealings, the bold behaviours, and the manly order of life wherein I lived before? Hath love so puissant a power to revert my sweetness into sorrows, my mirth into mazednesse, my life into languor, and all my happiness into a state so helpless? O grief without end, O sorrows without ceasing, O hellish torments that hath no conclusion. But yet am I the first that was framed to folly? Or I am the last that shall be lead by love? Hath not the Gods themselves been subject to like mestive miseries? Did not jupiter enter Acrissius tower, in the shape of a fair swimming Swan, to deflower fair Danea? Apollo persecuted Daphne to get his will of her: Neptune begat Nauplius father to Palamedes of Amimone, daughter of Davaeus: Mercury lay with Lar the beautiful Nymph, and got of her two pretty children called Lares. Likewise king David became convinced by the love of Bersaba: Solomon the wise was subject to love likewise. If then love hath made the Gods to agree, the wise to be wilful, the stoutest to stoop: is it possible for me poor Strabino, to resist a thing of such force? O Cornelia, little dost thou esteem the good will I bear thee, little dost thou account of my constancy, little dost thou regard my restless rage, & little dost thou deem all my dolorous doubts. Is thy heart so frozen, that the sunny beams of bounty may not make it to melt? Is thy mind so misbelieving, that no faithful fidelity may seem to reform it? Is not daily proof sufficient to try my trustiness? Is not the great good will I bear thee, able to cause thee to account well of me? To offer me cruelty for courtesy, thou dost me open injury. Alas wretched wight that I am, whose misery is more than mine? Whose days more dolorous, whose time more troublesome, whose life more loathsome, & whose state more irksome, the day to me is nothing delightful: the night more careful, sleep I can not, and waking, I never cease wailing.  
Sometime I sit to conquer the cogitations, which weary my wits: then again am I driven into a more deep desire. Sometime I scorn and laugh at love, thinking mine own will a sufficient warrant: but then in a moment ariseth manifold miseries, so that neither waking nor sleeping, walking or sitting, can my sorrowful self sustain any rest. Why wast thou borne to abide such bitterness? why hast thou lived to see this trystfull time? why hath not death desired his due: and the grave cut of this merciless grief? O Labyrinth of intricate evils, O maze of endless miseries, whom neither dutiful surrendering of myself may suffice: nor any virtuous action seem to content you. Cease Strabino, give not thyself altogether to insolency, nor frame not thyself wholly vanquished with follies, time may turn thy troubles to tranquillity, time may make thy foes thy friends, and time may revert all thy pains to pleasure. Impute not thy Lady altogether disloyal, for he that speedeth at the first: wooeth well, and he that hath no denial: in my opinion is very fortunate.  
In these and such like careful complaints the solytarie Strabino hath worn away the wearisome night. In the morning cometh his brother and friend Rodolfo, to understand the cause of his sudden sickness.   

Rodolfo, the brother of Cornelia, and avouched friend to Strabino, cometh to the Chamber to know the cause of his sickness. Cap. 4.  
AT last Rodolfo a dear friend to Strabino, and Brother to his Lady and Mistress, missing his friend from School, whereto was his daily repair: cometh to his Chamber, & there found him tossing and turmoiling himself, on his careful couch, which when he saw, as one amazed at this sudden mutability, and greatly grieved to see his friend in such a piteous plight: began thus to frame his speech.  
My dearest friend & chiefest jewel of my joy, not so glad of the rare friendship that in you I have found: as sorrowful to see this uncouth sight. Is this the comely countenance that you were wont to carry: and now changed into the perfect Image of care? Are you that man, that erst did swim in delight: and now bereft of your former behaviour? Was my words erst worthy to procure thee to pleasure: and now not able to stand in their former effect? Am not I the same Rodolfo I was wont to be: and shall not I now be accounted as thy former friend?  
What is the cause my Strabino of this sudden alteration? How happens it you are so soon changed into heaviness? If I be worthy to know the cause of your carefulness, or that my deserts may gain my desire: let me understand the sum of your sorrows, and doubt not but I will see some redress for you.  
Strabino having well weighed the words of his friend, and how earnest he was in this his request: bethought himself how he might sufficiently answer him, and yet not be found tardy in his talk. Perhaps afterward he would discover more of the case: but at this instant he should not know whom he loved, wherefore in this order he framed his answer. My dear Rodolfo, whose friendship I highly make account of, & whose fidelity I have found firm in weighty affairs, to you will I display my dolorous disease: hoping by your means it may be mitigated.  
Since first it was my fortune (dear friend) to use the company of the brave Ladies and Damosels here in Verona: I have been attainted with so many perilous passions: that sure I am past hope to have any recovery, yet do I strive with mine affection as forcibly as I can: but unpossible it is for me to remove it, so excellently do I esteem of the person, whom I honour: that in life or death I am hers at command.  
Rodolfo perceiving Strabinos sickness, and how that love made him to languish in such sort: he esteemed the matter of less account, and made him an answer but little to please him. Ah Sir (quoth he) are coals so soon kindled in your uncertain stomach? is your mind so mutable, that no steadfast stay may be had? Are you one the regardeth not your prosperity: or make you so small account to fall into misery? Do you see the danger each day before your eyes: and are so heedless to fall headlong in the same? You have read yourself, how the effects of love are strawge: and by so much as you have seen and heard, me thinks it should be odious unto you. Forget you Plautus words, when as touching this devilish disease, he saith: jactor, crucior, agitor, stimulor, versor in amoris rota, miser exanimor, feror, distrahor diripior, ubi non sum: ibi sum, ibi est animus. How like you this lesson alleged to your love? How can you excuse that these fears are not felt? How can you disprove these innumerable dangers? Remember Antigonus words to his Father Demetrius. Let Seleucus folly to his son, forewarn thee what adversenesse consisteth in this contagious disease, who joined his own Wife with his son in marriage to satisfy his lust. What caused the long dissension between Themistocles and Aristides: but the love of Stesilia the harlot? What procured the hatred between Cato and Caesar: but the licentious love after Seruilia the strumpette? Semiramis, honoured and extolled for her nobleness of mind, and virtue in her deeds: by love brought her name into eternal infamy. Why are the Assyrian Kings so reproved of wantonness: but for the lawless love they use, with their Concubines? Did not love blemish the rare renown of Hannibal in Salapia? Did not love infect the fame of Alexander? What caused Catalin to kill his son Oristilla: but love? What caused Laodice Wife to Ariartes' King of Cappadocia to murder his sons▪ but love? What made Scylla to destroy her Father: but love? What made the stately walls of Troy be sacked: but love? Infinite are the extremities which through love arise, and can not be so much reprehended: as by right it deserveth. What man so wilful to come subject to Women? What pains more intolerable then to come at their calls? It is their joy, to have one bow at their becks, it is their delight to have one wait on their wills, it is the chiefest of their choice, to have a man sue for their succour. Then Gyll will be a Gentlewoman, if she could but Parle un petit de Francoys. If a man will be made a meacock, & blind himself with a little of their bold behaviour: then is their coin currant, yea, better silver than an honester Woman's. If they can once fledge themselves, with an other man's feathers, and jet in their jewels at other men's costs: then a pin for the proudest, a fig for the finest, she is as honest as the best, though she be ashamed to use it, yet sure she doth well, not to have her honesty so much seen, lest with wearing it on working days, it may catch to much heat, & so melt it away: or else take so much cold, that it will never be good after. If with a song, you would be sung a sleep, or with a dance lead to delight, or if you have the Quatrinos', to play at sink & size: then is she a Companion with the cunningest, a fellow with the forwardest, and will rather play small game: then sit quite out. Who would miss such a mate, that for a months pleasure: will after make you lead a loathsome life? Who would lack such a Lass, that for a days pride: will make you go a month stark naked? Now truly he were unwise, that would not have such a Wench, and he were too far foolish, that would want such a Bon Companion.  
Oh Strabino, in faith the black Ox never trod on your foot yet, you never came where it grew: nor you never tried time, as here after you shall find it. If you had beaten the bush, and caught any of the Birds: I doubt not but you would have told me an other tale. If you be wise: stay yourself in this state, if you will follow your friends who wish you well: eat a bushel of Salt with them, ere you trust any one of them, for you were better beware before: then wish you had taken heed, when it is too late▪ Try & then trust me, if you find not true that I have told you: then report of me, as my deeds shall give occasion.  
Strabino having line still a pretty while, and devised how he might now stand in defence of his Misterisse: made answer unto his friend on this wise. Sir (quoth he) saying and doing are two men's labours, and it is easier for a man to promise: then to fulfil, yourself now setteth such a courageous countenance on the matter: as though your mind were invincible. Think you there is not as wise men in the world as you? Are you made of such metal, as force will not melt you? could you if the matter were brought to the trial: with all the cunning you have make any resistance? No credit me, but even so glad to find ease as myself: & march under Cupid's banner for company. What said Ariosto in the commendation of love? He saith, what sweeter state? what more bountiful bliss, and what more happy life: then to be linked in love? Chrysippus' also saith, that love is the bond of friendship, and ought not to be held in contempt: for that beauty is the flower of virtue. Cicero holdeth opinion, that a Wise man may lawfully love, and the very reciprocal and mutual society of true & faithful friendship (say the Peripations) is love. Zeno the Prince of the stoics affirmeth, that it is needful and necessary of young men to be lovers, and never disagréeeth with wise men: for that love is an associate with virtue. And will you reprove love that is so much honoured? Will you disdain love that is so magnified? Will you condemn all Women, although some be evil? and will you reprehend all Women for one strumpet's sake? What perilous pains? What troublesome travail? What pinching pangs, and what manifold miseries, did one woman sustain for you? Remember her that brought you into this world, consider her care in providing for your prosperity, think on the daily devices her motherly affection framed to keep you in quiet, sometime lulling on the lap, and trifling with many a toy, for the pure love she bore her child, remember all these points indifferently: and then judge how much you are bound unto that famous sex. Did not God give Adam in Paradise a Woman for his companion? Hath not God ordained man & woman to live together in matrimony? and that the mutual love between man & wife, is to him most acceptable? O my friend Rodolfo, forsake this fondness, leave of this lewdness, & take hold on a better text, love them that love you, and maintain no more this vain assertion. When Rodolfo had weighed the sick man's answer, & that he was so far in: that it was too late to cry ho, he said. Now credit me Strabino, all women have just cause to wage you well: because you stand in their defence so doubtily, were I a woman: you should not want what possibility could perform, & sure I would choose you always for my Champion against any whatsoever. And truly, she whom you love, knowing what metal you are made of: if she love you not again, she is very uncourteous.  
Well, I warrant you, ye will not die of this disease, you will take better advisement with you I hope. If you would frequent the Tournaments, to bestride the stately steeds, and with the shivering Lance to behave yourself manfully: these foolish fancies, these troublesome thoughts, and these coy cogitations would soon abandon you. The hour you know of our exercise is at hand, I must be gone, my Companions attend my coming, in the after noon I will visit you again. Your sudden departure (quoth Strabino) is an augmenting of my grief, but I will not hinder you from your valiant exercise: till you come again, God keep you.  
Rodolfo being departed: Strabino could not take any rest, up he rose, his head encumbered with a thousand thoughts, his mind musing on many matters. One while he thought to go see his sweet Saint: then he thought it would but procure the greater pain, an other while he thought to send to her: then he doubted how she would take the matter, at last, he took pen, ink and paper, and framed his salutations, as followeth.  
ALbeit dear Mistress, you may account me more witless, then wise, and more saucy than beseemeth me, to perturb your patience, with these frivolous lines: yet if you respect the good will I wish you, and consider the dutiful service I am ready to show you: I trust I shall be discharged of any crime committed, and that my honest intent deserveth no rash repulse. Part of my pains I have bewrayed to your bounty, and some of my sorrows you have secretly seen: then judge if my justness deserves not your gentleness, and whether my constancy may claim part of your courtesy. Pygmalion so long embraced a cold stone: that at last he won the same to his Wife. Admetus in the attire of a man, with long service gained his best beloved. If love were so effectual to frame, fit for their fancies: why may not Strabinos hap at length return fortunate? But perhaps dear Mistress, you will allege that the liberty of my speech, bewrayeth the lightness of my love, & that I seem to undermine you with forgery, intending no fidelity. To drive you out of such doubts, and discharge myself of doubl● dealing, and to prove my love vehement without vaunting, fervent without falsehood, trusty without trifling, and constant without any craftiness: let be practised for proof, what shall please you to employ me: and command to the uttermost, though it were loss of my life. If you find me faltering: then rightly repel me, and if you prove me perjured: then never more use me. Thus committing the sum of my suit to your sweet solution, and the construing of my cause to your inestimable courtesy: I refer here to multiply manifold matters, and so with a Courteous Congee, bid you farewell heartily.  
Yours to command, the solitary Strabino.  
THis Letter thus written, and sealed with sorrows: he wished a thousand times it were in the hands of his courteous Cornelia. But now thought he, how might I behave myself in the sending my suit? How might I devise to have this delivered? If I carry it myself: I shall be suspected, if I send it by a stranger: her Father may chance to see it. If I should make my friend Rodolfo messenger, he would then perceive the sum of my secrets, then would he see that his Sister were my Saint▪ and that her love would set me at liberty. I know not how the matter may be misused: nor how the cause may be by them consulted. A bargain (they say) well made is half won, and he that works surely: lightly hath no harm, then will I trust none in this but myself: so if I speed not well, none knows it but myself.  
The Tournaments being ended: Rodolfo returned, and finding S●rabino walking in his Chamber: requested to know how he felt himself amended? Quoth Strabino, neither amended, nor worse impaired: but even as you left me, yet if it were not for hope: the heart could not hold, so I hope that that my sickness, will in the end return my sweetness. 〈◊〉 I think will somewhat mitigate the mazednesse of my mind, and beside make me have a stomach the better to my meat: if it shall please you to walk with me: I will after go with you to your Father's house. With right good will (quoth Rodolfo) I will walk where you please, and do what you can devise: so that I might somewhat persuade you from love.   

Signior Truculento, an extorting Usurer in Verona, cometh to the house of Giorolamo Ruscelli, the father of Cornelia, to desire his Daughter in marriage, and bringeth with him a sumptuous present. Cap. 5.  
Leaving Rodolfo and Strabino in walking for their pleasure: I will now rehearse how old Signior Truculento smoutched up himself in his Fustian slippers, and put on his holy day hose, to come a wooing to Mistress Corneli●●▪ The old whoreson would needs be lusty, and to chéerishe up his churlish carcase, would get him a wanton Wife. And though I say it, he was as well made a man, and as curious in his qualities: as ever an old Horse in this town, when he is gnabling on a thistle. This carpet Knight, having pounced himself up in his perfumes, and walking so nice on the ground, that he would scant bruise an Onion: comes to the house of Signior Giorolamo Ruscelli, bringing with him a very costly Cup, wherein was about five hundred Crowns. When he was come into the presence of the Gentleman, he said Sir, as one right glad to hear of your health, and willing beside to work your well fare: I am come to see how it fareth with you; because that long time I have been desirous▪ First Sir, this Cup I freely give you, and these five hundred Crowns, I frankly bestow on you, besides if you pleasure me in my reasonable request: you shall find me your friend in more than I will speak of.  
The Gentleman amazed at Truculentos liberality, who before would scant bestow on himself a good meals meat for expense of money: made him this answer. I can not choose Sir, but consider well of your courtesy, and likewise esteem of your bountiful benevolence, undeserved of my part to be so rytchly rewarded: considering my countenance to you hath been small. And if your request be so reasonable as you seem to affirm, & that it lieth in me to bring the same to effect: doubt not that I will make you any denial, since you have gratified me with so great a gift. Well Sir, now Truculento trusseth up his towardness, and bustleth up his brains like a bunch of radish, setting up his wits to work about his Amorous eloquence: he thus began to tell forth his tale. It may be thought to you good Sir, either a natural inclination, or a predestinate desire, that a man of my years should now be bend to folly, in craving that company which a youthful head requireth, and seeking to match myself in marriage, drawing each day to my death. But as a good foresight in all things is to be had, and diligent industry keeps the Wolf from the door. Even so, though I am to be thought fond in following my will, I am to be excused in wishing my weal. Yet this may be alleged to condemn mine assertion, and this may be thought, I do it more for lust then love. That in making my choice, I am not more circumspect, and in ruling my will, I am not more wise. The hoary heayres should choose one agreeable to his age, the lusty youth one meet to his tender time: then if this allegation may stand in effect, I have made my market far amiss. On age I begin to bend my brows: and on a gallant Girl I fix my fancy▪ Age of me is altogether despised: and youthful years honoured and exalted, Age in my mind is nothing wholesome: but beauty is brave, delicate and toothsome. So Sir, if I may gain her whom I have thus chosen: I shall not be only pleasured, but yourself for ever hereafter profited. Your Daughter it is whom I desire, it is even she whom I serve, and none but she must be my solace. If you accept my suit, make answer accordingly: and if I shall have your Daughter, do not deny me.  
The Gentleman having well listened this new come wooers tale, and seeing at what mark he leveled his love, he bring one himself that preferred money before manly modesty, coin before courteous civility, and riches before any virtuous action, beside, overcome with the costliness of the Cup, out of measure contented with the five hundred Crowns: Furthermore he thought, if he matched his daughter with him: she would soon send him to Church, and then should she swim in her golden bags: was very loath to send away such a sweet Suitor, thinking it rare to have a rytcher: wherefore to Truculento he made this answer.  
I hope Sir, you doubt not of the good will I wish you, nor of the courtesy you shall find hereafter, your reasonable request is altogether allowed: and your gentle gift greatly accepted. I would my Daughter's dowry were as much as I could wish it: I would bestow it on man sooner than yourself. With that he called for his Daughter Cornelia, who when she was come into this old amorous squire's presence: his heart began to heave like a Baker's bun, his whole complexion so miraculously changed: that you could scant have known him from a Croyden sanguine. Oh so his Amorous eyes began to look on his new Wife, I am sure he would have spent all the shoes in his shop to have had one kiss for a courteous Congee.  
Lo Daughter (quoth her Father) God hath sent you here a Husband, one that will maintain you in your bravery with the best, and you shall lack nothing, but live a ladies life, now make answer as you shall think best.  
Cornelia somewhat moved at this made matter, and nothing contented with her Father's choice, all her senses distracted with this sudden motion: yet took courage to answer the matter in this sort. Dear Father, it is the duty of the Child to be obedient to her Parents precepts: and it is the Father's fame to have his Child virtuously nurtured, I confess it is my part to obey your grave advise: and it ought to be your care to see me meetly matched. If then your care be no better bestowed: my duty must be as much neglected, though your will be to see me carelessly cast away, if it lie in me, I am to prevent it, both for the credit of your worthy estate: and also for the good name of my simple self. Will you for money marry me to a miser? Will you for wealth wed me to a Wyttoll? And will you for riches so little regard me? Shall I for a little vain glory? forsake virtue? Shall I for paltry pride run headlong to hell? Shall I for mortal muck, forsake immortality? No Father, had he wit to his wealth: he would be more wise, had he reason to his riches, he would be of more regard, and had he manhood to his money: he would be ashamed of his extorting usury. For what is wealth without wisdom? riches without reason, and money disorderly governed? Even like the shadow of a man portraited in a picture, that hath all the lineaments in good order belonging to a man: yet wants the man himself, for as the Image lacketh life to his proper proportion: so this man wants that which should most of all adorn him. Rather had I you should have chosen a country Clown, that getteth his living lawfully, & liveth by truth and honesty: then such a one as is not acquainted with any virtuous behaviour. I must confess he is wise enough, to make much of his money, and careful beside how to cull in his coin, but he that will run to the devil for a little dross: and pinch the poor to the perdition of his own soul: shall never be loved of me while I live, much less intend I to have him to my Husband.  
When Truculento heard Cornelia's pinching reply, and how she disdained such a loathsome liver: he would with all his heart have had his Cup again, on condition he would never come more a wooing. Yet set he a good face on the matter, because he would not be misdoubted, and fain he would have spoken, but his heart was so big he could not, the which her Father seeing, said.  
Come Sir, we will go walk about the City a while, and never dismay yourself at the words of my Daughter, for will she, nill she: I will have her follow my mind in this matter. Away went old Truculento with a heavy heart, yet the Gentleman's words, procured him to be of better cheer.  
They were no sooner out of the door: but in came Rodolfo and Strabino both together, and Strabino in walking: had bewrayed to his friend the sum of his secrets, whereto he gained so much his good will: that he promised he would further it as much as he might. When they came into the Garden: there they found Cornelia very sad and sorrowful. Why Sister (quoth Rodolfo) how happens it that you seem so sad? Why do you cumber your mind with carefulness, your head with heaviness, and all your parts with such pensiveness? When I went forth in the morning: you were merry, and are you now changed into such melancholi●? O Brother (quoth she) after mirth cometh moans, after joy grief, and after pleasure pain, that comes in an hour: that happens not in seven year: Even so since your departure, hath chanced such change: that all my friends will lament to hear of my father's folly. Hath my father (quoth Rodolfo) framed things contrary to your fancy? And doth his dealings hinder your delight? I pray you unfold this sudden alteration: if I may be so bold to crave such courtesy. You are to command me in greater affairs than this quoth she: wherefore attend & I will tell you all. Not fully yet two hours ago, there came to my father such a comely Camellion: that could change himself into all hues saving honesty, all qualities in him, saving those that are comely, & as expert in humanity: as he that never knew what it meant. Besides (but that I am not to reprehend age) for that it is honourable, nor to condemn his years, (for that he hath lived a tranquil time) he is as doting a dissard as any in Verona, & as covetous a Carl, as liveth at this day. But if wealth may make a man wise: he will brag with the best, or his extortion make him esteemed: he will be nothing behind hand. But if virtue should vaunt & claim for her fee: this comely Squire were sunk in the wetting, & all his credit cracked before it were gotten. But to come to the effect of the matter, & to let pass his properties: without they were praise worthy, and to show the cause of his coming, and his suit to my Father. It is so, that this money miser: is become a lusty lover, and bringing a gorgeous gift to gratify my Father: the Amorous whoreson would have me to his wife. Now my father (as you know) hath a good mind to money, & looks that the old suitor will soon turn up his heels, (so then shall I have more money then modest manners, and greater store of substance, than wisdom to rule it,) he would needs make him promise, that he should wed me to his Wife. But I gave him such a cooling ●arde, & such a pinching reply: that my Father is fain to go and persuade him, saying at his departure: that he shall have me whether I will or no●. But sure, ere I give my consent to fulfil his fancy, and match myself with such a Midas: my Father shall first cause me leave my life, which will be a greater reward: then to live with reproach.  
Now surely Sister (quoth Rodolfo) I must commend your constancy, and allow the care of your credit, before such a doting drudge should spoil your gallant youth: myself would tell my Father an other tale. With that Strabino took out his Letter, and courteously kissing it: gave it to his sweet Saint, and in the mean while she was in reading it: they walked about the Garden together, and having read it: came unto him saying. Sir Strabino, your honest intent: I can not dislike, nor your well meaning mind can I reprove, but wish I were worthy so seemly a suitor, & of abyllitie to gratify your exceeding courtesy. I confess your justness condemneth me of ungentleness; & your constancy reproveth my great discourtesy, in that at your last departure: I did misuse myself with such blunt behaviour, but as the Sun should not set on an anger conceived: so I hope my presumption by you was pardoned: If at the first I had granted your love: you might have alleged my mind to be light, if at the first demand I had made no denial: you might have thought me very untrusty, but now perceiving your ardent affection, the loyal love and good will you bear me: I think I can not bestow myself better, then on him whose fidelity I have found so faithful.  
Now Brother tell me how like you my choice? In choosing my friend, Sister (quoth Rodolfo) you have followed my fancy, in making my friend your Husband: you have done as I would have you. God grant your days may be spent so prosperous: as I wish this match to each party meritorious. This match is more seemly: then my Father's forecasting, & this is more agreeable to God: then to have you united in that order, for where perfect love is effectually placed: there is triumphant tranquillity, peace and plenty▪ Gods blessing and sufficient. But where marriage is made upon compulsion, the one agreeing, the other disdaining: there is daily discord, displeasing of God, continual care, and many infirmities followeth. Wherefore I think this a match so meet: that it can not be mended, a choice so equal: as there can be no better, here is love and loyalty, here is faith and fidelity, God prosper your proceeding, I wish it heartily.  
Now Gentlemen, judge if Strabino had not cause to be courageous of so gallant a conquest? of so peerless a prize, and so loving a Lady? Whose joy was more jocund? Whose bliss more bountiful? And whose hap might be compared to Strabinos' good luck, in compassing that in a moment: which he thought would never have come to effect, and in getting the good will of so gallant a Goddess, so sweet a Saint, and so merciful a Mistress.  
Wherefore now leaving the languishing of his sorrowful sickness, and forsaking the fear that erst followed his fancy: he saluteth his Lady with this courteous reply. I see (most merciful Mistress) that there is no disease so desperate: but help may be had, no sickness so sore: but Physic can foil it, no wound so dangerous: but a sweet salve can recure it, no grief so great: but patience brings prosperity, and no doubt so dreadful: but time bringeth to full effect. See here, he that was erst drowned in doubts: now hoist in happiness, he that erst remained in unmerciful misery: now floateth in flourishing felicity, he that erst was plunged in pitiful perplexity: hath changed his state to perfect prosperity. If Caesar here would commit to me all his conquers, Croesus his puissant possessions, or the three Goddesses proffer unto me, as they did to Paris: None could so much please me, as you my second self, none could more delight me: then my jewel so gentle, nor any more like me then my Lady so loyal, whose courteous constancy: high jove prosper in perpetuity.  
Cornelia seeing Strabino in the midst of his mirth, and having devised a drift to fall pat to their pleasures, crossed his tale with a courteous kiss, and after began her talk in this order. The wise hold opinion (quoth she) that a present peril is good to be prevented, who works warily at the first: need not repent him after, and a bargain well made, is half won. You know Brother, our Father requireth riches out of measure, and a match of money makes up his mouth, now if Strabino should solycite his suit to him (as needs he must) he may allege the want of his wealth, and that his ability is not able to maintain me according to his mind, as no doubt he will compass a hundred conceits: because he would match me with old Truculento.  
To deceive him now of this devise, and to win the matter fit for our will: I have bethought of a cunning conjecture, and remembered such a remedy, as will fall very fit, both that my Father shall give his consent: and the old worldly wretch served in his right kind. First, Brother you shall go with Strabino to Truculentes house, and there on your credit, take up a great sum of money, as much as you shall think good, then go you into La strada di San Paolo, and buy the jewel which my Father hath long had such great affection to, the which will so win him: that I dare warrant none but you shall have me to his Wife. For the payment thereof you shall not need greatly to account: for that you shall refer unto me, but this way I think you shall soon speed, and this way I warrant you shall gain no nay.  
I perceive Sister (quoth Rodolfo) a Woman's wit is good at a need, and this your devise full well we allow. How say you Strabino, shall we put this in practice? Or will you defer it for fear of discredit? Nay sure (quoth Strabino) since the matter consisteth on no greater a clause, and that this invention may drive all out of doubt: I think each day a year till we have dispatched it, and each hour a month till we have bound up the bargain.  
Cornelia espying her Father was entered, and fearing lest he would mistrust the matter, gave them a watch word to win them away, and to go about their pretended purpose. Rodolfo goes in to flatter his Father, in the mean while Strabino stealeth out, so that their pranks were nothing perceived: but all fell out, even as they would wish it. Rodolfo stealeth out, and followeth his friend, and in short time they met both together, than they agreed how the case should be concluded: if so be the money would be lent that they hoped for.  
They being come to Signior Truculentos house, & he sitting at his door very solitary: Rodolfo in the fréendlyest fashion saluteth him, and flattering the fool, thus frameth his tale. Worthy Sir, if I say otherways then beseems me: I hope you will bear with me, and if I speak as affection serves me: I doubt not but you will deem all at the best: so that neither flattering you with any forgery, nor upholding myself by any vain glory: I shall commit to your courtesy my well meaning tale, and my simple suit to be accounted of, as you shall like best.  
Since the providence of the Gods hath so appointed, law of nature hath eke allowed, and the grave advise of my Father hath so consented, that you are the only man must match with my Sister: I rejoice that my hap hath proved so fortunate, and that the Gods hath sent me such a lucky lot, as your worthy self shall become my brother, always wishing that your time may prove as tranquil, as my good will is to work your well fare. When old Truculento heard Rodolfos Rhetoric, and how gallantly he glossed to purchase his purpose, he thinking that all his tale had been truth, and upon pure affection he had spoken the same, replied. Friend Rodolfo: You have not found me so bountiful: as hereafter you shall find me brotherlike, ne have you had any such occasion to commend me: as hereafter you shall purchase occasion to praise me. I remain to pleasure you, in what I can possible, and will stand your friend in more than I will speak of. Indeed your Father hath found me so friendly: that I thank him, he deems me to deserve his Daughter, & you I see conceive so good opinion of me: that you think me sufficient to match with your Sister. Well, if all prove so well, as I hope it will, and the match be so granted as on my part it is proffered. It is not money, or aught that I have, but shall be all present to do you a pleasure.  
Strabino began to smile in his sleeve. Rodolfo much a do to keep his countenance, to see the old whoreson how willing he was: & how craftily they caught him into so good a belief, wherefore now he beginneth to show forth his suit: not doubting to speed before they departed. Well Sir (quoth Rodolfo) for your proffered courtesy I remain your debtor, not doubting but the matter will come so to pass as I have always wished it, & if it like you so well, as to grant me one request: while I live you shall bind me to the uttermost of my power. Here is a Gentleman, a very dear friend and fellow of mine, who because his living is not yet come into his hands: is desirous to borrow a certain sum of money, allowing for the gains thereof, what you will demand: the sum doth amount to four thousand ducats, and but for one month he desireth the lending, and if by that time he do not discharge the debt: he is willing to forfeit his patrimony, and besides the best limb of his body.  
Friend Rodolfo (quoth Truculento) the world is so wretched now a days, & divers of the people so pinched by poverty: that many will borrow, but slack payment is made, then if we exact the Law to the uttermost: we are accounted covetous carls, worldly wretches, and such like, which makes me so loath to lend: for I care not for dealing in the trade any more. What pleasure were it to me to maim or mangle this Gentleman for mine own: truly I had rather if I could well spare so much, to give it him outright, so should I sustain no reproach myself: nor he be endamaged in the distress of the law. Yet for your sake, I care not if I lend him so much: so that you will stand bound unto me, as straytlie as he shall.  
Sir (quoth Rodolfo) for the credit of the Gentleman, I dare wage all that I am worth, and for the payment thereof, I dare stand to the peril, deliver you the money, & if the debt be not discharged before, or at the above named day: I will lose all my Lands, beside the best limb of my body. Well (quoth Truculento) this is the bond, if by the first day of the month ensuing, the whole sum be not restored: each of your Lands shall stand to the endamagement, besides the loss of both your right eyes, are you content to stand to this bargain? Yea (quoth they both) and that right willingly.  
With that he departed to fetch the money, than quoth Strabino to his friend. Did ever man see a more extorting villain then this? Is not our Lands sufficient to glut up his greediness? But that each of our eyes must stand to the hazard? Oh miserable miser, oh egregrious cormorant, surely the just judgement of God, will reward him for his wickedness. Well, cease (quoth Rodolfo) no more words, Lupus est in fabula, little said is soon amended.  
Then comes Truculento, willing them to tell out their money, and then to set their hands to his Bill, which being done: he delivered forty ducats more to Rodolfo, to carry his Sister for a token from him, saying. Desire her to esteem of the gratefulness of the gift, more than the quantity doth amount unto, and tell her, that in life or death I am hers at command.  
Your courteous token (quoth Rodolfo) shall be delivered, and your message ministered, with as much expedition as possibility will permit, and thus thanking you a thousand times for your Brotherlyke benevolence. I commit you to the custody of the heavenly Creator. The like wish I you (quoth he) desiring you to remember the bargain wherein you are bound.   

¶ After that Rodolfo and Strabino had borrowed the money of Signior Truculento, they departed to their lodgings, and in the morning go and buy the rich jewel, which Strabino presenteth to Signior Giorolamo Ruscelli, the Father of Cornelia, and obtaineth promise that he shall have her in marriage. Cap. 6.  
ROdolfo in the morning, repaireth to the Chamber of his assured Strabino, where being entered, he found him in his study at his Book, awaiting his company to go about their business. Strabino (quoth he) let your Books a while be left: and frame yourself to further your fancy, let be the solemness you use in your study: for you are like to purchase a double delight, the tide tarrieth no man, and when we are assured of our wished jewel: then may we defer the time as long as we list. Wherefore, myself desirous to hasten in our enterprise, and also to prove the doubt of a dream. I desire the more to make an end of this matter. Quoth Strabino, hath a dream driven you in any such doubt, or have you seen a fancy in your sleep, which you shall prove effectuous now you are waking: if it shall like you to tell me the truth, I will define thereon as well as I can.  
To trifle the time in talk (quoth Rodolfo) may let our labour, and beside, to show you the effect of the same: would cause you to delude me, wherefore I will let it alone till we return, and if by the way it prove to perfection (as my desire is of God it may not) truly I will tell you. They take their way down by Signior Truculentos door, where he saw the Saint sitting which all night was in his vision, no further could he go he was so faint, but stood leaning on the breast of his friend Strabino, at last he burst forth in these words, saying.  
O my Strabino, but that you are my friend, and one whom I do highly make account of: I should doubt to discover the cause of my dolor, and fear to display my so sudden passions, yet seeing yourself hath tasted like torment, and have borne out the brunts which now I abide: the bolder I may my secrets bewray, and the surer demonstrate the cause of my care. Yet you will condemn me for my preter presumption, and may rightly control me for my rash reprehension: yet judge with indifferency, and deal with me friendly, let old faults be forgotten, and penance claim pardon. I see there is no stomach so stout: but love will allay it, no courage so conquerous: but love will convince it, nor no heart so haughty: but love can bring low: Even so myself, who was a reiecter of love, am now enforced to follow my fancy, and I who envied against Women kind: am now become a thrall to one myself.  
With that for fear of being suspected in the open street: they went their ways about their other affairs, and as they were walking, quoth Strabino. I see dear friend, that the most learned Clerks, are not the wisest, the most valiant, not the surest, nor the greatest boasters, the best performers, I perceive you would have been in your descant, before you knew what pertained to prick Song. What say you now to Plautus' words? What say you to all the matters wherewith you charged me? Well, I will not reply so rashly as you did: nor I will not give you such cold comfort, as you used to me, but I will do the best to make up the matter, and my head to a halfpenny, I will bring it to effect.  
I know it is Truculentos Daughter whom you desire, and she it is must cease your sorrows: let us first end the matter we have in hand, and then you shall see how I will compass this gear. Rodolfo well satisfied with Strabinos' promise: went and bought the jewel which his Father so much desired, and there withal a fair white jennet of Spain, and coming home: found his Father sitting at the door, he entered, leaving Strabino to talk with him, who after he had saluted him in seemly sort: began his matters in this order as followeth.  
To rip up the chief occasions (worthy Sir) that procureth me in what I can to pleasure you: would be over tedious to me in the telling, and somewhat troublesome to you in the hearing, wherefore letting them pass as remembered in mind, and recounting such matters as occasion doth bid me: I first and foremost present you with this rich & sumptuous jewel, wishing it so much worth, as I could willingly bestow.  
When Signior Ruscelli saw the jewel, which so long he desired, and that his sons friend and Companion was the bestower of the same: he was overcome with such exceeding joy: that it is unpossible for me to express. But when he had well viewed all about, & seen the sumptuousness bestowed thereon: he answered Strabino to his great contentment.  
If I should show you (quoth he) how much this gift pleaseth me, and beside, make manifest the good will I bear you: you would suppose I did but flatter you, and deem my words of no true intent. Wherefore to drive you out of all such doubts, and to make appearance of that I have spoken: demand of me what you shall deem expedient, and I vow to the uttermost to grant your request.  
With that Cornelia came to the door, and seeing the jewel in her Father's hand: commended greatly the liberality of her Brother's friend, and informing her Father to make him large amends.  
Sir (quoth Strabino) the jewel given, bids me (under verdict of your licence) crave an other jewel, and this jennet besides I give you, wishing but to speed of that jewel. What jewel soever it be (quoth he) I have, or any other thing, that may seem to suffice you: on my credit and fidelity, you can but ask and have. Strabino stepped up and took Cornelia by the hand, saying: then give me this jewel in recompense of my jewel: so shall I be contented, and you nothing injured.  
Sir Strabino (quoth Signior Ruscelli) the demand you have made is doubtful, and the choice you have chosen, nothing correspondent to mine intent, her marriage is already made, and she is given to one whose wealth is so worthy, & whose store so surpassing: that while she liveth, she shall need to lack nothing. You are a young Gentleman, youthful and liberal, and will spend more in a day: then he in a year, he is wary and wise, you youthful and prodigal, therefore the match is otherwise determined, any thing else remaineth at your request. Sir (quoth Strabino) you have left a point open, and I have a man to enter, respect your play wisely, lest you lose the game outright. A promise may always be claimed for a due debt, and such a man as you should never shrink at his word, I may claim this jewel by a sufficient title: for that in your promise you made no exception. Yea but Strabino (quoth he) I meant you should have desired some other desert. But I meant (quoth Strabino) to crave none other, so that you standing to the bargain, and I liberty to take what best likes me: this jewel is mine, and your word a sufficient warrant.  
Besides, where you doubt my living is not sufficient to welcome such a Wife: I trust that the patrimony my Parents doth allow me, is more than the dowry you will make to her marriage. Again, if my liberality, of you be dyslyked, and the niggardly sparing of a worldly wretch so much commended: I perceive you prefer riches before a noble mind, and account more of vanity, than you do of virtue. Mazeus when he received his Praetorship of Alexander: in commendation of his munificence, used these words. My Prince Darius was ever but one man: but thou by thy liberality, makest many Alexanders. Scipio Africanus never road abroad, but he would use such liberality ere he returned: that of his greatest foes, he would make his dearest friends. Isocrates wisheth Nicocles to be familiar with this excellent virtue, willing him in his apparel to be gallant and glorious: and let his liberality set forth his magnificence. Then never dispraise liberality, which is the chief ornament of a noble mind: but hate that worldly pleasure, enemy to all virtuous actions. I content myself to stand to her gentle judgement, if she do not regard me: I am content you shall refuse me, and if she like me not: I will let her alone.  
What bargain is between you twain (quoth Signior Ruscelli) I know not, nor how you have devised the matter in hope to deceive me, yet have I seen no such familiarity, whereof I should account: nor any such likelihood, that she will choose you to her Husband. I am content to abide her agreement, wherefore speak Daughter as your mind shall best serve you.  
Then since dear Father (quoth Cornelia) it hath liked you to grant me my mind, in making my choice, and that you will not be offended at my bold behaviour: Sir Strabino, you are the man whom I most account of, and no other will I have during life.  
When Signior Ruscelli perceived it was come to that pass, and that his promise bound him to stand to her verdict: he said. Take here then Strabino, the jewel of my joy, to quite your jewel so liberally bestowed, and God grant you such prosperity while you live together: as I wish to mine own soul, I speak unfeignedly. The Nuptials shall be celebrated when you think best, in the mean while I will take you as my Son, and you both as Man and Wife.  
After much talk passed between them: out cometh the mournful Rodolfo, ravished with such inward desire, and tossed in such frantic fits: as his piteous plight bewrayed the state of his sickness. Strabino taking leave of his new found Father, and of his sweet Lady and wife Cornelia: went with him. And as they were going (quoth Rodolfo.) O my dear Strabino, needs must I go, to know either of or on, her Father shall know the good will I bear her, and she shall perceive I wish her to my Wife. If I may speed, I have my desire, if not, the greater will be my distress.  
Ah Sir (quoth Strabino) how like you love? Who shall control you for following your fancy? A man knows what his beginning is: but he knoweth not his ending. Brag is a good Dog, while he will hold out: but at last he may chance to meet with his match. In such like conference they came to the house of Signior Truculento, and who should open the door but Brisana his Daughter, the Mistress of Rodolfo, whom he saluted in very friendly sort. But even so willing as he was to have her to his Wife: she was as desirous to have him to her Husband. Here was hot love on both sides, and each of them so far in: that it was unpossible for either to get out. Rodolfo, he in secret tells Truculento such a flattering tale in his ear, how his Sister had calmed her courage, and was content to stand to her Father's appointment: that the day after the debt was discharged the marriage should be made, so he for joy of these newcome tidings: joineth them both hand in hand, to marry when they will, & God give them much joy▪ Hear were marriages soon made, and Wives soon won, I believe if I should sue for like succour: I should perforce take longer space to speed.  
Now is Rodolfo returned rejoicing, and Strabino right glad of his good success, Truculento presently hies him to horseback, to go will all his friends, to meet at his marriage.  
When Signior Ruscelli knew how his son had sped, and by so fine a drift had deceived Truculento: the next morning marrieth his son, and Truculentos Daughter together, and Cornelia and Strabino in the self same sort. What joy was here on either side: judge you that are married folks and meddle in such matters, yet though I be unskilful to define on such clauses: I must needs suppose, that since each of them gained, the thing which they most desired: their joy was not little, nor their pleasure lightly to be accounted of.  
Strabino he with his sweet Cornelia passeth the time pleasantly, & Rodolfo with his brave Brisana liveth at hearts ease & tranquillity, so that they think there is no other felicity.  
But now Gentlemen (as the ancient Proverb is) after pleasure comes pain, and after mirth comes misery, and after a fair and sunny day, ariseth blustering winds & sharp showers: Even so to this passed pageant of pleasure, is annexed a stratagem of sorrows.  
Truculento is returned from bidding his Guests, and hath heard of the hap which chanced in his absence, he comes as one bereft of his wits, or as a man feared out of his five senses, and uttereth this tale to Signior Giorolamo Ruscelli. Sir, blame not my boldness, for that I am constrained, nor reprehend my rashness, since I am so misused, I thought more credit had consisted in your ancient heart, and that you would not have dissembled with any such double dealing. Did not you perfectly promise I should match with your Daughter, and that no one should gain her but only I? Did not I give your Son my Daughter on the self same condition? And have you in my absence married her to an other? Not contented with matching my Daughter with your Son, I being not present▪ but to go and play such a Parasites part. Well, well, I doubt not but to deal so sharply with some: that they shall wish they never had married my promised wife.  
Few words & sweet Sir (quoth Signior Ruscelli) threatened folks live long, and angry men are subject to many sorrows, I gave you no other consent, then on my Daughter's agreement, and when I mentioned the matter: I still found her contrary. Wherefore you must pacify yourself, there is no other remedy, and learn to make a virtue of necessity, for sure your luck was still turned to loss. And whereas my Son hath matched with your Daughter: I deem you are not greatly to find any fault, but rather may be glad she hath sped so well, for the day hath been he might have had her betters. Wherefore if you seem to chafe yourself upon so light occasion, and that you will not be contented, we offering you such courtesy: meddle in no more matters than you may, nor heap any more harms on your head, than you are willing to bear. If you set not a point by us: we care not a pin for you, if we may have your good will so it is: if not, keep your wind to cool your Pottage.  
This answer made Truculento more mad than he meant to be, and he fling forth of doors in such a fume: as though all the Town would not have held him.  
On the morrow, he caused Strabino and Rodolfo to be summoned to appear before the judge, for the payment of the money, which when Cornelia and Brisana perceived: they willed their Husbands in nothing to doubt, for that by their industry they should be discharged. Cornelia appareleth herself all in black like a Scholar, and Brisana attyreth herself in the same sort. After dinner they appeared before the judge, where Truculento appealed against them in this order.   

Signior Truculento summoneth Strabino and Rodolfo before the judge, for the debt which was due to him, where Cornelia and Brisana, by their excellent inventions redeemeth their Husbands, and Truculento at last seeing no remedy: falleth to agreement. Cap. 7.  
MOst magnificent judge, time was (quoth Truculento) when firm affection, and pure zeal of friendship, moved me to mind the destitute estate of these two Gentlemen, when as either they had not money to their contentment: or wanted such necessaries, as then was to them needful▪ At which time (as the Lamb endangered by the ravenous Wolf, flieth for safeguard to his fold, or as the Ship abiding the hazard of Fortune, and fearing the eminent danger, posteth to some port, or hasteth to some Haven in hope of succour): Even so these twain repaired to me, who being sufficiently stored of that which they wanted, and beside, willing to pleasure them, to their greater profit: committed to their custody, a certain sum of money, which amounteth unto four thousand Crowns. Now their necessity indifferently satisfied, and they being bound to deliver the sum at a certain day: they have broken their promise, which is open perjury, and falsified their faiths, in not restoring the money. Wherefore, that all Gentlemen may be warned by such wilful offenders, and that God may be glorified in putting them to punishment: I have thus determined how the debt shall be discharged. The rendering of the money I do not account of, ne will I be pleased with twice as much restored: the breach of the Law I mean to exact, and to use rigour, where it is so required.  
The forfeiture of their Lands, is the one part of the penalty, the loss of their right eyes the whole in general, now remembering the woeful estate of their solitary wives, how in depriving their substance, they might be pinched by penury: I let their Lands remain unto them in full possession, whereon hereafter they may live more honestly. I claim their right eyes for falsifying their faith: to move others regard how they make like reckless promises. So shall justice be ministered without partialytie, they rightly served for infringing their fidelity: and myself not thought to deal with cruelty.  
Thus have you heard the cause of my coming: now give judgement as your wisdom shall think most expedient. My friends (quoth the judge) here is no place to deal with partiality, here is no room where falsehood should be frequented, nor time in this place to defer in trifling affairs: but here is simply justice to be advanced, wrong rightly revenged, and mercy mildly maintained. Wherefore, ere I begin to deal in this diversity, or that I seem to contend about this controversy: I exhort you each one to exempt double dealing, to fly forged fraud, & to minister nothing maliciously, but on each cause to way the matter advisedly. Consider you come to deal in matters of conscience, matters of your own maintenance, and such things whereon your credit consisteth, now you are not for friendship to further falsehood, ne yet for malice to touch an untruth, but even to deal so directly, to frame your matters so faithfully, and to use yourselves here so uprightly: that not so much as a motion be made of any misorder. But every one to answer as occasion is offered, so help you God and the contents of this book, whereat they all kissed the book. And then the judge called Strabino, to show in what sort, and after what order the money was borrowed, and what promise there was between them.  
Most mighty judge (quoth Strabino) truth never defameth his Master, right repelleth all proffered wrong, and upright dealing disdaineth all forged fraud, wherefore, neither fearing the force of his revenging rigour, nor yet dismaying at aught that is done: I will tell my tale, reporting nothing but truth, and claiming no other courtesy than my deserts shall deserve.  
Truth is, my Father failing to send me such money, as served to the maintenance of my studious exercise, and beside, wanting wherewith to deal in weighty affairs: my friend & I came unto this Caterpyller, (so rightly may I call him, neither defacing his licentious living, condemning his practised science, and cunning handy craft, nor yet inveighing against any of his honest behaviour: but commending his cut throat conditions, in pinching the poor, to fill up his own pouch.) Being come to this aforesaid worm of the world, (who eateth so many to the bare bones, out of Lands and living, to glut his greedy desire) we desired a certain sum of money, which is no less than himself hath confessed, for a months space, and then to restore the same to the unrightful owner, who binding us straightly in the loss of our Lands, and of each our right eyes: lent us this aforesaid sum. Now in deed, we not minding the so short restoring of his due debt, for that necessary occasions was partly our hindrance: have endamaged ourselves in two days more, than the limited time did amount unto, for which time we will allow him to the uttermost he can ask, & his money to have when him pleaseth. Now if your wisdom doth not think we deal with him honestly and well: we will stand to what effect it shall like you to bring it.  
My friend (quoth the judge) your reply is reasonable, you confess yourself indebted in that which he hath demanded, and yield that you have broken the band, willing to make an amends, insomuch that you will satisfy the uttermost, which he may seem to sue for: I can not choose but account your words of good credit, in that your dealing doth demonstrate no other. Now Truculento, you see the Gentleman granteth himself guilty, since his earnest affairs did hinder the repayment of your debt to you due, now he hath the whole ready to restore, and beside, over & above this sum: will content you to the uttermost it shall please you to request. In my opinion you can reasonably require no more, if you do: you shall but seem to shame yourself.  
Sir (quoth Truculento) he that before my face will use such terrible taunts, behind my back, would gladly brew my bane, he that in my presence will so spitefully reprove me: in my absence would hang me if it were in his possibility. Doth he demerit favour: that so frowneth on his friend? Can he claim any courtesy: that abuseth himself so disorderly? Or can he once plead for pity: that standeth in so great a presumption? Or you my Lord, desire me deal gently: with one who respecteth not gentility? No, the money is none of mine, ne will I have it, his Lands I respect not, ne care I for them, and now his submission I way not, ne will I accept of it. You my Lord shall rather reap reproach by pleading on his part: then gain any credit in maintaining so careless a creature. I drive my whole action to this issue, I plead my privilege unto this point, & to this clause I am severely bend: I will have the due which breach of promise doth deserve, I will exempt all courtesy: and account of cruelty, I will be pleased with no rich reward whatsoever, no pity shall prevail, rigour shall rule, and on them both I will have Law to the uttermost.  
Why Truculento (quoth the judge) respect you cruelty: more than Christian civility, regard you rigour more than reason. Should the God above all Gods, the judge above all judges, administer desert, which your sins hath deserved? If his fatherly affection, if his merciful mildness, if his righteous regard, did not consider the frailty of your flesh, your promptness unto peril, and your aptness unto evil: how mighty were the misery, which should justly fall upon you? How sharp the sentence that should be pronounced against you, and how rigorous the revenge, which should rightly reward you? Is this the love you bear to your brother? Is this the care you have of a Christian? The Turk, whose tyranny is not to be talked of: could but exact to the uttermost of his cruelty. And you a branch of that blessed body, which bore the burden of our manifold sins: how can you seem to deal so sharply with yourself? seeing you should use to all men: as you would be dealt withal. Yet to let you have the liberty of your demand in Law, and you to stand to the justice which here I shall pronounce, let first your right eye be put forth in their presence: and then shall they both abide like punishment.  
For since neither the restoring of your debt will suffice you, nor yet the liberal amends they are content to make you: I deem it expedient you should be partaker of their pains, so shall you know if you demand a reasonable request. How say you, will you stand to the verdict pronounced: or take the reward which they have promised.  
My Lord (quoth Truculento) neither do I deserve to abide any such doom, nor they worthy to be favoured with any such friendship, I may lawfully allege that you permit partiality: & that you divide not each cause indifferently, for to what end should you seem to satisfy me with their words: when yourself perceives how they are found faulty? And what urgeth you to use such gentle persuasions: when you see yourself they deserve no such dealing? If I had wilfully offended in any such cause, and wittingly broken in such sort my bond: I would be contented you should deliver me my deserts, so that you did minister nothing but justice. And wherefore should you seem to demand the loss of my eye who have not offended: for safeguard of their eyes that have so treacherously trespassed? I am sure I go not beyond the breach of my band, nor I desire no more than they have deserved. Wherefore object no more matters, whereby to delude me, nor impute no occasions to hinder my pretence, I crave justice to be uprightly used, and I crave no more, wherefore I will have it.  
Indeed my friends (quoth the judge) who seeketh the extremity, & urgeth so much as his wilful mind doth command him: his commission is very large, & his request not to be refused. Wherefore, since neither pity can prevail, nor friendly counsel persuade: you must render the ransom that he doth require, for we cannot debar him in these his dealings, nor we can not choose but give our consents. Therefore if you have any that will plead your case in Law: let them speak & they shall be heard, to further your safety as much as we may.  
My Lord (quoth Rodolfo) their courtesy is overmuch that will kneel to a thistle, and their benevolence bountiful that will bow to a Bramble: Even so we are far foolish to crave courtesy of such a cut throat, and more witless than wise to meddle with such a worldly wretch. If there be no remedy: we know the uttermost of our pains, yet we crave that these our attorneys, may have such liberty as Law will permit.  
With that Truculento fared like a fiend, and cursed and banned like a Devil of hell, (quoth he) my Lord, you deal with me discourteously: when the Law is come to the pass to let them have their attorneys.  
Sir (quoth the judge) you have used all this while your attorneys advise, and they have answered simply of themselves, now since you the Plaintiff have had this prerogative: it is reason the Defendants should demand their due. It may be that their attorneys may put you to such a plunge: that you shall have small occasion to brag of your bargain: wherefore let them speak.  
Then Brisana (Truculentos Daughter) began in this order to plead for her avail. Admit my Lord (quoth she) that I come to such a person as this party, to borrow the like sum of money, binding me in the self same band, to restore the money to the same party of whom I had it. Well, the time expired, I come to deliver the due to the owner, he being not at home, nor in the City, but ridden forth, and uncertain of his coming: I return home to my house, and he himself comes out of the Country as yesterday. Now he upon some several spite or malicious intent: sueth me in the Law, not demanding his due, nor I knowing of his arrival. Am I to be condemned for breaking the Law: when the party himself hath deferred the day?  
How like you this gear Truculento? you have now an other Pigeon to pull, and here is one wiser than you were beware. Can you condemn this party, not demanding your due, nor being at home when it might have been discharged? And making the band to be restored to yourself?  
My Lord (quoth Truculento) though I was not at home: my house was not empty, and though I was away, if it had been restored: it stood in as good effect as if it had been paid to me. Wherefore it is but folly to frame such an allegation: for my receiver in my absence doth represent myself.  
Well (quoth Brisana) admit your servant in your absence, standeth in as full effect as yourself, and admit the debt had been discharged to him, if wilfulness had alured your servant to wandering, and that he had departed with the debt he received: you return and find it still in your book, neither marked nor crossed, as if payment had not been made, you will let your servant slip with his offence: but you will demand the debt again of me.  
Tush (quoth Truculento) this is but a trifle, and your words are now to be esteemed as wind, you should have restored the sum to my servant: and I would not have troubled you in any such sort, for there is no man that useth such folly: but he will see the book crossed before he depart. Therefore you do but trouble time with mentioning such matters: for your redemption is never the near.  
Well then Sir (quoth she) you will thus much allow, that at the delivery: the band should be restored, and if I had delivered the money to your servant: I should have respected my band till yesterday, for your servant had it not to deliver: and I would not pay it before I had my ●ande. Ah Signior Truculento (quoth the judge) he toucheth you to the quick now, how can you reply to this his demand? In deed I confess (quoth he) my Cubborde kept the band till I returned, but yet noting the receipt in the book, would have been sufficient till my coming home.  
With that Cornelia stepped up, saying. Since (Signior Truculento) you will neither allow the reasonable answers he hath made, nor be content to abide my Lord the judges verdict: receive the ransom you so much require, and take both their eyes, so shall the matter be ended. But thus much (under verdict of my Lord his licence) I give you in charge, and also especially notify, that no man but yourself shall execute the deed, ne shall you crave any counsel of any the standers by. If in pulling forth their eyes, you diminish the least quantity of blood out of their heads, over and beside their only eyes, or spill one drop in taking them out: before you stir your foot, you shall stand to the loss of both your own eyes. For that the band maketh mention of nothing but their eyes, and so if you take more than you should, and less than you ought: you shall abide the punishment here in place pronounced. Now take when you will, but beware of the bargain.  
Truly (quoth the judge) this matter hath been excellently handled, it is no reason if you have your bargain: that you should hinder them with the loss of one drop of blood, wherefore I pronounce no other judgement, shall at this time be ministered.  
Now was Truculento more mad that he could not have his hearts desire, for that he knew he must needs spill some blood, it could not be otherwise chosen, wherefore he desired he might have his money, and so let all other matters alone. Nay (quoth the judge) since you would not accept of it when it was offered, nor would be contented with so large a promise: the money shall serve to make them amends, for the great wrong which you would have offered. Thus in my opinion is judgement equally used, and neither party I hope will be miscontented.  
Truculento seeing there was no remedy, and that all the people praised the judgement so worthily: accepted Rodolfo for his lawful son, and put him in possession of all his livings after his disease. Thus were they on all parts very well pleased, and every one accounted himself well contented.  
If now this homely History may seem to suffice you: in recompense of my costs, I crave nothing but your courtesy. You shall have the rest as possibility can permit me, and I remain your friend to pleasure you in aught to my power.  
Take this in mean time, though too short to be sweet, and thus I bid Euphues heartily welcome into England.  Honos alit Artes. 
FINIS.  
A. Monday.   

Faults escaped in the printing.  

1. In the .25. Page, in Zelautos' speech, for underding, read understanding.  
2. In the .32. Page, in Zelautos' speech, for Timon, read Timantes.