PHEANDER THE MAIDEN Knight; DESCRIBING HIS Honourable Travails and haughty attempts in Arms, with his success in love.  
Interlaced with many pleasant discourses, wherein the graver may take delight, and the valiant youthful, be encouraged by honourable and worthy adventuring, to gain Fame.  
Written by H. R.  
LONDON Printed by Tho. Creed, dwelling in Thames street, near the old Swan.  
1595.   

To the Right worshipful true professor, follower of Arms, and marshal discipline, the Renowned Captain, Thomas Lea, Esquire, H. R. your worship's faithful well-willer, wisheth abundance of all worldly happiness, with h●rts desire, in all your attempts, and after death, the joys eternal.  
MAny Poettes, Right worshipful Captain, have written the honours of such Noble and beautiful Ladies as they adore, applauding in heroical verse and most eloquent prose, their worthiness, some under one title, some another, each one in his several humour as their Patronize doth merit: to those whose acquaint conceits, and witty inventions are such, I leave those amorous Subjects; singing in my harsh Tunes, the honours of a Soldier, a Prince borne, and a Noble professor of Arms, which I boldly offer unto your worship, that is a Patron to all, professing marshal discipline: and worthily is so called, in all places where your forward service hath been approved, but especially registered for a mirror of gentility, and honourable Soldier of our time, amongst the Irish Nation, and inhabitants of that land, where your name is both feared and beloved, the one for your resolution, the other, for your virtues, bounty, and clemency, whereof daily they reap the benefit. The due consideration of all which, hath halled me on thus far to adventure, hoping your accustomed favour shall be a protection to this stranger, whose honours, if you vouchsafe at such times as your serious affairs shall permit leisure to peruse, I hope something therein may move your delight, which I heartily wish. If happily it so prove, I shall hereafter be emboldened to show my slender skill, in explaining the honours and virtues of our home-born adventurers, whose honourable actions, are not the least in account, nor aught to rest in oblivion. Till when and ever, amongst those which your worship's favours have tied in true love unto you, I will offer my unfeigned and dutiful service.  
Your worships in all dutiful affection, ever ready to be commanded: Henry robart's.   

To my beloved Country men, the courteous Readers.  
GEntlemen, after many bloody bicker and dangerous hazards in great perils on the seas, I have recovered the haven of my desire, and have brought for your delight, this strannger Knight, a Prince borne, endued with much honour, who being a man famous, as his actions importeth. Albeit my skill is not such as is required, yet have taken upon me a Pilots charge, and in safety have set him a shore, where his desire led him, unto whom Gentiles (my hope is) your accustomed favour to all strangers shall not be denied, being a Cavilere of fame: how plainly so ever you see him attired, yet accept him, and as a traveler coming of good will, bid him welcome, and with favour, peruse his honours in Arms gained, which I hope may in some sort delight you, if happily it prove as I desire, he hath his wish. But (how so ever) discountenance him not altogether, whose will is to deserve well. Abrupt faults, he may unwillingly commit many, which if according to your accustomed courtesies you vouchsafe to pardon, and after his long travail, with careful trouble, to delight you, receive but the least show of good liking, it is all he expecteth: your courtesy is more than the cost, from which as you are English men and Gentiles allianate, so shall he endeavour to deserve better, and shall in his travail hereafter, report of you as you are, and bind me his careful Pilot, your Country man, through whose procurement he is come hither, to your humble service.  
Yours ever. H. R.   

Pheander, The Maiden Knight: describing his honourable Travels and haughty attempts in Arms, with his success in love.  
WHat time Manpelious reigned king in Numedia, as their ancient annuals record, Thelarchus likewise swayed the Diadem in Thrace, a Prince so highly renowned for all honourable actions, as few such in his time lived. This Thelarchus, in the blooming of his Princely years, desirous to leave issue to his Noble house, joined in marriage with Alinda, daughter and sole heir to Constantius, Emperor of Germany, by whom in short time after their Nuptials, he had issue one daughter, who was named Nutania, (This princess) as in comeliness of person she exceeded, so for her beauty, wisdom and other good graces, there lived none her equal: the report of whose excellence, as Fame advanceth with her loudest trump the honourable (especially) such peerless creatures, as this Princess (yea) so highly stood-shee graced in the God's favour, that none but nutania's beauty was remembered in most Prince's Courts, both Christian and heathen.  
The renown of whose peerless beauty, so often blazed, came to the hearing of Dionicus, son and heir apparent of the Numidian King, who upon the surpassing praises by every one given of this Lady, begun more and more upon hearing such several reports, to conceive an inward joy of her, diligently hearkening to each stranger which should recount her virtues, and honour by virtue gained. Long had not this humour followed the lovely Prince Dionicus, but love the sovereign guide of men's thoughts, had so enthralled him, that all his delight was in contemplating of this Princess beauty, yea so was he overtaken in loves snare, that nothing was pleasing unto him, but the sweet remembrance of Nutania: so much was his delight in her▪ that oftentimes, in the midst of his pastimes, calling the Princess to mind, he would as one past himself, altogether overcome with melancholy, abandon the company of his most familiars, seeking from their pleasing pastimes some solitary place, where he might unheard or seen recount with large amplifications the Princess beauty, whose servant in mind he was wholly vowed. Thus dallied Dionicus so long with beauty's flame, that overtaken with the vehemency thereof, he fell into an extreme fever, which in such strange manner assailed him, as the learnedst Physicians could not find any reason of the disease, much less procure his health, who lanquished in love, not daring to disclose his grief to any, or acquaint his trustiest companion with his love. This sudden alteration of the Prince, in whose welfare the comfort not only of his companions in Court, but generally of the commons consisted, moved them all to such exceeding grief, that in short time their lovely countenances were so much altered, that neither pleasing look, nor cheerful word, was to be obtained from them.  
The King, whose aged life depended on the happiness of his son, as fathers how base soever, delight in virtuous offsprings, much more the Noble, whose honours are to be maintained by their progeny: the aged king, whose greatest felicity was in the prince, was with such infinite griefs oppressed, that in short time his body was so weakened, that rather he desired to accompany the dead, then live in such discontent, the mother Queen, with over much care and watching near pined, and few which felt not some part of the Prince's grief, such was their faithful loves unto him whereof the father gloried not a little, and the mother (if women may be proud) was not a little spiced with the disease. But neither the heaviness of the father, the extreme grief of the mother, the daily lamenting of the Courtiers, nor the complaints of the Commons might any way avail the Prince, who smothering his own sorrow, could not by all art (Physic allowed for men's relief) be any way comforted. The over grieved burden of whose miseries the Queen with his kingly father seeking to ease, and could not as he desired accomplish, such extremity likewise assailed them, that the learnedst could not judge the difference between them, (so that by their ill) suppose the subjects grief, which reverently honoured them, and could willingly have offered their own lives for their relief and ease.  
But in vain strive they, that seek help for him whom none but the beautiful Nutania could release, who was the Lodestar of his life: and the love of her, the special Physic which must restore him, or die he would past all recovery, but by Nutania, that Paragon of fame, Diana's glory, Nature's only darling, and delight.  
Weak and feeble, past recure of Physic, became the King and Queen, void of hope ever to see their Princely sons recovery: wherefore, forgetting all worldly pleasure and Princely delights, such as become Princes of so high esteem, quite abolishing all the vanities of the world, they mind wholly the everlasting comfort, and joy in nothing, but his death, that from death, by his blood redeemed them.  
In this extremity, when all hopes were past help of men, behold the mercy of him that preserveth and destroyeth at his pleasure, who moved no doubt, at the intercession of some their virtuous subjects, or taking pity of their distress, as we read in holy writ, testimony of our soul's comfort, how Abraham beloved of God, moved his divine Deity for those Cities for sin by his just judgement consumed, if five godly people▪ had been found within their walls, they had been preserved: so either for the virtues of the King, or the intercession of those sorrowing subjects, the giver of all comfort sent them comfort, as you shall hear.  
The Numedian King, whose prime of youth was spent in many honourable actions, holding in great regard the love of his neighbour Princes, lived in such tranquillity, that he was honoured of all that heard of his government. The report of whose long sickness and weak estate, moved the Kings of divers regions, by their embassage, to comfort them, and to be advertised of the truth of their estates. Amongst which those honourable Princes that held his health in such regard, Thelarchus King of Thrace dispatched his Ambassador. Who for the more honour of their King, was accompanied with divers Gentlemen, both of honour and great worship.  
These Ambassadors arriving at the Court of Numedia, their cause of coming unknown, many matters were of the commons supposed (who will intermeddle with Prince's affairs) so that amongst them divers things were imagined, and sundry dangers suspected, but no assurance of any, until their day of hearing, which the king appointed to be as sudden as they could require.  
Against which time royal preparation was made, with all the pomp could be devised, where for feasting there wanted no dainty, how rare soever, nor diversity of Vyandes to please the appetite, with many pleasing shows, and pastimes, the better to give them occasion of welcome: all which, notwithstanding the King's weakness, was so exquisitely performed, that it was admirable.  
The day of hearing come (as time stayeth not) Manpelious having summoned his council and chiefest Nobility, against that time to attend his pleasure: these several Ambassadors were brought to his presence, where with more show of hearty welcome, than his weak body could deliver, he gave them such honourable entertainment, as beseemed the messengers of such Princes, and highly contented them, whose courtesy the stranger's Nobles applauded, and grieved the more at his extremity, by how much the more they saw his debility.  
After some talk passed between the King and these Nobles, and that he had inquired with all kindness of the health of their Princes, and welfare of their countries, and received their Letters with divers Princely presents, they were dismissed, but yet not suffered to departed, without gracious thanks to their kings, and kind show of good acceptance of their pains, leaving them to their repose, with great charge to his Nobles and those in authority, to see their entertainment such, as if their sovereign Lords were present: which charge was not forgotten of those which prized their Prince's honours as dear as their lives, but with such pomp and cost accomplished each several command of his Highness: as the Strangers might well admire to behold it. Their diets so diverse and so abundant, as they had never seen the like, furnished with so much sundry music, and so cunningy used, as might well delight the Gods. To acquaint you with other pastimes, for recreation, as Plays, Masks, Tilting, Turneying, Barriers, and other Courtly pastimes, beside, their hunting of Tigers, wild Boars, and Lions, which moved such delight, as other sports pleasure unto them. Thus in using daily those pleasures, when the Nobles had spent some time in the Court, every one content with his royal entertainment, hearing amongst the Nobles of the country such general honour of the Prince Dionicus, whom they had not yet seen, an especial desire moved them to visit the Prince, bewailing greatly that moved such adverse chances, should nip so brave and honourable a Prince, in the blooming time of his princely years.  
The Prince Dionicus, albeit the imbecility of his body denied those nobles his presence at their pastimes, in which several sport he much delighted, yet that they might not departed of him unseen, he commanded a sumptuous banquet in his lodging to be ordained: ●o which he invited the stranger Nobles & their companies: who wishing to see the Prince, were as glad to accompany him, as he desirous of their company, and graciously with many humble thanks, accepted the Prince's good wil The youthful Nobles attendant on the Prince, careful to see each thing ordered, for the honour of his Majesty, wanted nothing that might be desired, only expected the coming of their guests, who not unmindful of their promise, as dinner time drew nigh, prepared themselves towards the Prince, unto whom by his Nobility in most gorgeous manner, they were conducted: no sooner entered they his presence, but Dionicus, whose courtesy was such as gained the love of his subjects, and all strangers that had seen his demeanour, yet at this time had better knowledge how to entertain them, than ability to perform what he would, stretching himself in his bed, as his weak limbs would suffer him, he gave them such hearty welcomes, as highly contented them, & beseemed their estates. These Nobles when they had made their eyes witnesses, of what report had so often bruited, rather accused report of great wrong, in not giving him such due as he deserved, then of over much praise: for that the fame bruited of him, was not to be valued with his worthiness. The time of dinner passed they, with many glances on the Prince, noting his courtesy, but ever lamenting his grief, & wishing his health, framing themselves to pleasant discourses, to put him from those melancholy thoughts, wherewith he was over much burdened. Thus with much diversity of table talk, consumed the time, the graver sort, of matters for benefit of the state: the greener heads whose years required no other cares of their pleasing pastimes and pleasure, the managing their horses, commending the stateliness of their bodies, their sinenesse in careyring their bravery in their Curvet, and excellent swiftness in their gallop, their readiness in hand, and their courage in the face of the enemy: not omitting the gallant cries of their hounds, nor forgetting, by which and which, such a buck was slain, and such a Stag pulled down, passing not, without high commending the soaring of their hawks, nor forgetting their stateliness in flight, with their fierce seizing on their game. And then for variety, as occasion is ministered, Carouse a health to their Mistress and Loves, in their country.  
The Prince as lovely as the best, & in his health as well able to perform whatsoever, had his greatest comfort in listening to the talk of Cariolus and Octavius, two noble men of Thrace, which accompanied of pleasure Atlautus, the chief in commission for their king. Dionicus earnestly noting these two Nobles of Thrace, as most delighted with their persons and pleasant parley, heard Cariolus carouse a health to the Princess Nutania: whose name the distressed Prince no sooner heard uttered, but the remembrance of that sweet object, his lives sole health, and mistress of his fancies, so revived his dying spirits, that suddenly the beholders might well perceive his wan colour, which argued a troubled shirit, to vanish, and those vermilion died roses, the wonted badges, & ornaments of his sweet face, challenge their former interest, and for a time possess them, restoring unto Nature her due, making his lovely countenance as cheerful to the beholders, as the glorious Sun to the captived, whose liberty being deprived, have long been debarred of all worldly delights, & seldom received comfort from that heavenly essence. This cheerful alteration in the Prince was noted of divers, whose ears, albeit busied in listening to the discourses of these strangers; yet the eyes of his own attendants, with dutiful care, gave heed unto the Prince.  
Amongst those unto whose government the care of the princes health was committed, Barnardine, a man for his art famous, and learned in his profession (which was physic) who sometime was tutor unto him, noting this sudden change in the Prince, supposing verily by his countenance, that some of their speeches did move him to content, coming suddenly to him, and grasping his arm, felt his pulses beat so fiercely, as in long time they had not done the like; which made him more considerately search, to find the cause of this motion, inquire it he durst not, doubting to move him to melancholy, having so often been denied, but resting by him a while, continuing with his arm grasped, he felt the pulse more and more to work, which gave him the more cause, to find if he might, the original from whence it came, and noting diligently unto which of the company he most inclined his eyes, he might perceive Cariolus and his Octavius earnestly bufied in their former talk, which was, I dare say, neither of religion, nor of government of the State, yet was it such as Barnardine perceived, hightie contented the Prince, and desired it might long continue, so it were for his Lords good. Many pretty questions passed between them, and much variety, in whose prattle many a fair Lady was commended by one, and for argument as highly of the other discommended, in which humour were divers of the Nobility of the country, and Ladies of worth by name questioned of, and many a youthful prank by themselves committed, yet all in friendship, and kindly taken, though harsh frumps passed sometimes between them, which moved them to much mirth. But when in earnest Octavius forgetting himself, falling from one matter to another, and that there should be a judgement given, who for beauty was the only paragon, Octavius for affection commended Brionella, daughter and sole heir of Constantine, king of Boheme, in whose fathers court, he had long been trained up, giving the prize from their own country Ladies: Whereat Cariolus, as if he had been the sworn Champion of their Land, moved at his rash censure, forgetting the reverence of the place, told him flatly his judgement was false, and that he would avow: offering his glove in combat, to maintain that the Princess Nutania, and none but she, deserved the name of beautiful: whose wisdom, and other good graces, in any one, was not to be found in the circuit of the earth: and therefore Octavius, (quoth he,) thou hast done over much wrong, to derogate the honour due to Thracian Dames, especially our peerless Nutania, whose face it beauteous Helena lived, for whom so many thousands lost their lives, she might well resign that title of the only fair, to her, and none but she: whose like liveth not.  
Octavius, who was wise and well demeaned, perceiving this parley begun in jest, likely to end in quarrel, noting likewise, how the rest of the company ceased their serious talk, to attend them, with a smiling countenance, as one not possessed with choler, broke off his talk thus.  
Why (my Lord) shall matter of so small moment cause friends to jar? What is beauty, whereof we have so long disputed, and so highly of us regarded? nothing but a fading pleasure, an ornament of the face which maketh the heart proud, and draweth the mind from every good motion, to many odious offences, whereby the honourable in committing dishonourable actions, are so blemished, that they become a common byword to the veriest drudge that Nature hath framed. Helena was fair, and accounted the only of her time, yet who so much scorned? Cressida beautiful, yet who more false? If beauty be attended on with such shame as these two famous women gained, why should we care who is beautiful? My sweet Cariolus mistake me not, if I have passed my judgement rashly, for neither care I whose fame in that case is esteemed or defamed, but pass them by as things of no regard; only for argument I have spoken more than either I regard or account of: therefore let not this be any breach of our friendship, for I protest, if thou shouldst say, the white Swan were as black as the raven, the Ocean dry, and ships floating on the main, I would affirm it, rather than our friendship should be for such a matter discontinued.  
Well Octavius (quoth Cariolus) I find your kindness great, & will thank you for it, but trust me, this gloze may not serve your turn, for as you have spoken heresy against Beauty, and maintained a stranger before your home-born Ladies, you shall either recant your judgement, before our sovereign Princesie Nutania, or receive such penance, by your quest assigned, which I promise thee shall be all honourable Ladies. Oh my Lord (answered Octavius) I hope I shall find your H. more kind, then for so small an offence to deliver your friend prisoner at the bar, where the parties shall be judges, & my jury such, as all laws allow me to appeal from, if you should, & my fault such, as if my life were in their trial depending, I might well make my testament, & dispose of what I possess, heartily desiring God to receive my soul, for sure I am, my body should not long enjoy breath; for no greater corrosive can be offered that Ser, then to attribute the honour of such a prize to any one particular, they all standing on terms of beauty, as the Crow which thinks her own birds fairest: so women how ill-faced and wrinkled soever they be, may not endure to hear any commended, if happily they should hear it spoken by such as they dare not in speech displease, yet will their countenance show their hearts discontent, by scrolling of the brows, hanging the lip, or setting a sweet face, as sugared as the gall, or by some such outward action or other, shall you find where that nipped her, for which offence looked she never so highly, with Bell, Book and Candle, you shall be cursed, and never more come in Paternoster, how deep soever you have been in her Creed.  
Hold, hold, Octavius, quoth Cariolus, too much of one thing is good for nothing: Thou hast played the excellent Orator. Who had thought your Lordship's experience had been such, for thereon I know you ground all your authority: Author I am sure in schools you never read any, which have so highly abused that sacred Sex, sacred I may well call them my Octavius, who are not honoured of mortal creatures, but of the gods, and therefore in the higher account, and the more in regard, the greater thy offence, and the more grievous thy punishment.  
To this pleasant discourse the whole assembly gave ear, and were greatly therewith delighted, yet to put them from it, and to end as pleasantly, Atlantus said:  
My Lord Cariolus; what, is your honour become Beauty's Champion? far was it from my thought, that ever you would with such earnestness have defended our fair Ladies, but since I see you are so great an Advocate, I will cause you to have thanks for it at our return, other reward I dare promise none. And you my Lord Octavius, that so clerkly have depraved them, would I might be your scholar, whose experience is so great, Tully, Ovid, or Marcus Aurelius, that wrote most in their disgrace, never writ so largely, I must needs say, as my Lord Cariolus, our ladies are little beholding unto you, for the danger committed in the same, the least is heresy, and how heresy is to be punished your honour knoweth: yet my Lord, as I would gladly become a peacemaker, and that friends may not grow at odds, whereby any danger might happen to your person, albeit the offence be not pardonable, yet the fault made in a foreign country ought there to have his trial. If it shall stand with your good liking, no ladies present to hear your hard censure, your favour may be the more: & since I have by patience of this honourable company, intruded myself to speak in our lady's cause, not being a feed Counsellor for them, I will entreat these noble Gentlemen to give me leave, & let me censure of the same, so it stand with your L. good pleasure.  
Now truly quoth Octavius, I find your L. kind, and more kind than I can either desire or deserve, when I shall need your favour in matter of more import, I will make bold: till when, I put you down with Cariolus for one of my small friends, for this matter I shall need small friendship, unless to bring your cause to better effect, you do as many crafty people now a days use, to make small conscience, in selling men's souls to the devil for money, to swear what he shall command them, how false soever, to the impoverishing of many, whose good hospitality, and other good neighbourhood, was more than ever such base villains could reach unto, if such a companion you mate me with, or search out some subtle lawyer that can by his quirks and quiddities in law, make a bad matter good, and anointing the judge with unguentum aurum, cause him to incline to the same, my cake is dough, if by such subornation, forswearing and false judgement, my speech be wrested to your advantage.  
Cease my Octavius, this dread, heavens forfend, for this offence thy punishment should be as thou deservest, much less that any sinister means should be used to bring thee to open penance, yet good Octavius let me entreat thee, as in this assembly thou hast unjustly given the prize of beauty to Brionella, and therein hast wronged highly the only of the world, by thy partial judgement, in derogating from her the title of most excellent, which is most honourable, & no more than her worth requireth: confess but thy fault and error in the same, and an end, if thou lovest thy own good, refuse not this offer, lest worse befall thee then Actaeon, or to Paris for his rash judgement. Thou hast learned us in thine own Exordium, that women are inspired with minds of revenge. Be therefore by thy friends entreated before the punishment come upon thee, so mayst thou keep thee from much sorrow, for if no greater mischief fall upon thee, thou shalt be sure of more curses, than thy weak carcase can bear: for my Octavius, in friendship I say this, and warn thee as one that loveth thee, knowing their inclinations, which as thyself confesseth, is bend to revenge: if so, as many as shall hear of this blasphemy, if they do thee no other ill, their cursing thou shalt be sure of, and women's curses, are as bad as the curse of holy saint Gillian: which is said to be ten times worse than the devils.  
Treason, treason, my Lords, quoth Octavius, if I have spoken heresy, this questionless is no better than treason, and the comparison so odious as may not be endured, (the devil and a woman joined in one) as fit a match as may be made. Well my Lord, since in my error I have found you kind in favouring my fault, let us do as all bribing Officers use, bear with me, and i'll hold with thee: so by consealing my fault, the less dangers shall happen unto you; if you refuse my kind offer, I come upon you with an old proverb (ka me) (ka thee) or as children play, (tell of me, I'll tell of thee). Well watched my Lord Octavius, quoth the whole company, but my Lords, let the further hearing of this matter rest, till better opportunity, lest your tediousness, breed trouble to my Lord the Prince, whose quiet, I would not willingly offend.  
My honourable Lords answered the Prince, if these discourses of those noble men be pleasing to your honours, assure you, they are no way offensive unto me, I have troubled you from your better cheer, to accept of a sick man's pittance, whereunto you are all so hearty welcome as to your own Palaces, (and welcome) saith our Country householders, is the best dish, at their feasts: if therefore my Lords you accept my welcome, I am the more honoured by you, which have so graciously vouchsafed me your companies.  
Then turning to the Lord Cariolus, he said, for you my good Lord, how much I acknowledge myself indebted to you, I omit, and yield you as many thousands thanks for your pleasing speech, as there were sillibles in your words▪ you have like yourself defended the weaker sex, for the which, were I the Princes Nutania, your challenged made in my cause, should be bountifully rewarded: I am sorry my good Lord, my bad hap was such, that I knew you no sooner. But if it shall stand with your Lordship's pleasure, that during the time of your abode here, to vouchsafe me your company, so it may be no disparagement to your serious affairs: persuade yourself, your welcome▪ shall be no better in anyplace, then unto me, for which kindness, you should hind me unto your friendship.  
Gracious Prince answered the Noble Cariolus, thanks for your Princely favour, and gracing me thus, which am not any way to do your majesty service, but wherein your highness shall command, I shall be ready with all dutifulness to accomplish.  
Leave these speeches good my Lord, quoth the Prince, and offering duty where friendship is requested, and granting my suit, let me enjoy thy company, so shalt thou command Dionicus, for ever as a friend.  
The graver sort of those Noble strangers, whom matters of more importance called away, after humble thanks given for their royal entertainment, wishing health and all happiness unto his excellence, they commit him to his rest.  
Barnardine, which had endured the end of all these prattles; and perceiving that this talk was altogether frivolous; and not worthy the hearing, moved him to delight: he began diligently to enter into each particular discourse of Cariolus and Octavius, and considerately to note each several passion of the Prince▪ so far searched this skilful physician into every particular, that canvasing it thoroughly, he noted his special gesture, and how his colour came (and vanished) yea how much his heart was possessed with joy, when he heard the Princess Nutania named▪ the working of his p●●ces, made Barnardine imagine▪ the cause of his disease, yet had no assurance thereof, and to inquire it of the Prince was in vain, for that he had so often denied the same: wherefore he consealing his thoughts, in hope to work means for his recovery, And finding those cinders which were like to come 〈…〉 e him, (and the rather) if he could procure Cariolus to accompany him. Thus leaving the Prince to his quiit, and Barnardine to his care, for recovering his health, return we so the aged weak King.  
The King whose long sickness, and care of his wife and sons health, whom he loved most zealously, being extremely vexed, and greatly weakened of his 〈…〉, when Physic had done what was possible, and small hope to recover him, in the midst▪ of his passions when all hopes was past, but only the comfort of him who by his word raiseth the dead from the grave, so this (Manpelius) received comfort by his kingly neighbour's friends, whose letters when he had by his Council perused, and with regard and advise, noted each kind offer, with their persuading reasons, (albeit) he could hardly ●●g●st the ●ame: yet considering how frail men are, and that our cares of Terraine joys, are to be fa 〈…〉 d to that Celestial commander, which relieveth all those that seek him, he revived himself, and like a faithful soldier, taking hold of the promise in holy writ so often repeated, he cast care of w●●●● child, and kingdom, upon him, that first gave it him, and by whole providence he so long enjoyed the●▪ ●aking his chiefest care to gra 〈…〉 tho●e his friends, by who●●●●●●sell he was urged to the heavenly comfort. And those honourable Nobles for their pains, who wishing to be with their friends in their own Countries, attend his highness pleasure for answer▪ which he took order▪ should with such speed be dispatched, as possibly might 〈…〉 way be used.  
Dionicus, whose heart was on his halfpennie, vowing his love wholly to the Princess Nutania, was so delighted in recounting he praise, as nothing could be so pleasing, but as all sorts of men infected with that ag●●●e (i● their love be faithful) are inclined to some jealousy, so this monstrous Basalicke, whose poison infecteth the vai●es, and consumeth the heart, without wisdom govern the mind, as by this Prince notably appeared: who in his idle thoughts, calling to mind the praises of Cariolus, and the challenge made in defence of the Princess Nutania, as love endureth no arrival, so Dionicus stricken with the sting of jealousy, began to conceive many unhonourable thoughts of Cariolus, supposing Nutania was was his Love, and that by Cariolus his joys in her love, and hope of favour, should be frustrate and of no account: with much matter more, than ever was by Cariolus imagined▪ how largely so ever his speech was used in the Prince's behalf, to procure their delights, and move Octavius to choler: notwithstanding no reason might persuade, where jealousy had given judgement, for the Prince in this jealousy, fought no mean, but revenge of him that never committed the least thought of evil against him. When revenge in this Prince's heart was thus imprinted, and rage and jealousy set down his death, an honourable motion, more befitting his grace then rigour, moved by the inspiration of the eternal God, withdrew him from this base attempt, he called to mind, the honour of his house, the love of those Princes their bordering neighbours, by whose command, Cariolus came into his Country, the Scandal so bloody a fact deserved, & what continual ignomy would redound unto him and his progeny for ever: accusing himself of great impiety, he exclaimed on his follies in this manner.  
Blush Dionicus, at thy base thoughts, and so much sorrow for thy pretended mischief, against this noble stranger, as if thou hadst shed the blood of a thousand innocents: hast thou from thy Cradle disdained to offer wrong to the most inferior, and wilt now begin with murder of a noble man? Knowest thou not, that to add to his head one hair, is more than the greatest Prince can do? And wilt thou seek his life that never had thought of ill against thee? Hath thy father lived so many years honourably reputed amongst them, ever in tranquillity, and by thy cruel slaughtering thy friend, shall their peace be broken? Was it not for his comfort and thy good, these strangers came into this country? and for their kindness, canst thou reward them with such despite? Thou enviest the happiness of a toward gentleman, for thou knowest not what, (say he loved the Princess) what is that to thee, interest hast thou none, to debar him from it. Nutania thou knowest not but by hearsay, he a Noble man of her country, a toward Gentleman, and worthily may obtain her. Nature hath made him of the mould of the earth, whereof thou art framed, the beggar is as subject to amorous passions as the prince. Nutania is beautiful, wise, fair, and in the principal time of her flourishing estate, lovely as the dew on the sweet Roses. Cariolus valiant, well featured, wise and toward, in all honourable actions; all which are load-starres to draw ladies to love: and Nutania is but a woman though a princess. If then thou hast neither fear of God, or law of humanity to persuade thee from so great a mischief, yet let his kindness offered thee, which hath been as much as ever thou requiredst, be of some regard. The fiercest beast seldom harmeth those whose society they use, and wilt thou be found more cruel than unnreasonable creatures: No, no, Dionicus, let die thy malice to Cariolus, who is innocent, and far from any thought of pretended evil against thee, for so much the more shall his blood with extremity be revenged, by how much the more, thou unjustly iniuriest him, yea rather choose to die a thousand deaths, if every life were a legion of lives, then hold so base a mind. Thou hast long (though to thy great grief) and much sorrow concealed thy love to Nutania, & now wilt thou murder him that wisheth thee well: for her love.  
No, no, Dionicus, let honour be the mark whereat thou aimest, account death more precious than life with ignominy, honour by murder blemished, is such a stain as can never be razed out, but the continual ignomine thereof, will remain while there is any being: Yea, and what is more to be regarded, the welfare of thy subjects on whom the blood of so noble a man will be with great effusion revenged, & thy country like those ruinous monuments of Troy laid waste and desolate, which was spoiled for a fact nothing so odious.  
Since thou hast all these reasons to reduce thee from this vile thought, dally no longer with thy shadow, as in the tale of Esope thou mayst read, of the dog; who moved with envy, of another's welfare, not only hazarded his life, but what else he had in possession. Though the comparison be ridiculous, yet the example may move thee to fear thine own fall. For if the gods be so just in punishing such offences in unreasonable creatures, how much more shalt thou be plagued, whom God hath not only endued with reason, but invested with titles of majesty and honour; whose life should shine on the earth, as the glorious Sun, and by thy virtues draw such as live under thy government, from their desire to commit evil; for such as is the Pastor, such will be the flock: if the Prince be virtuous, the Subject will fear to offend, if he be vicious, who will care to live in obedience of him, or his laws. Thou seest Dionicus, the peril, surcease therefore thy base thoughts (and as Cariolus is Noble,) where thou hast without desert been jealous, become zealous from envying him, that no way wished thee evil; admit him to thy friendship, to him thy kindness may be acceptable, and in using such favours, mayst thou in time learn the truth of what thou now supposest. If Cariolus love Nutania, he cannot be so secret, but in some sort or other, thou shalt attain to the knowledge thereof: and as thou shalt in conversing with him, find his Honourable dealings, so mayst thou either trust him or refuse him: If Nutania have vowed her love unto him, seek to master thy affection, and wish them joy, if not, his friendship may the sooner bring thee to thy desires, by acquainting the Princess with thy love, in explaining the passions for her thou hast endured.  
Nutania (saith the wrolds report) is beautiful, wise, and honourably demeaned, and therefore cannot be cruel: her father a king beloved of all that have heard of him, whose kindness hath been such to thy father & thee, as thou canst not deserve: if such love remain in the parents, the children should not hate: then fondling, if thou hast wronged thyself in concealing thy grief, accuse thy own follies; and condemn not thy friends of evil, nor let thy jealousy blame Cariolus, who never had thought of pretended evil against thee; if thou fail in thy love, blame none but thyself, spare to speak, spare to speed; Cowards never were loves champions, nor fainthearted swad obtained Lady's love: women though never so base, will be sued, sought, and courted, with many devices alured to win them, and their loves obtained, as sundry means sought to continue it.  
A Novice art thou Dionicus, and never came to know what many a hardy man at arms hath endured, histories are divers, which show the extremes of Princes and famous Conquerors, that they endured through love, yet hast thou never read of any that ever wooed by silence, courted their mistresses with imaginations, or obtained their love being mute: Longer mayst thou smother thy grief, which may cureless, consume thee: fire suppressed, burneth with more vehemency, and love concealed, consumeth the entrails, and slayeth remediless. How long may thy shoe wring thy foot, before any that look thee in the face can tell where it pincheth thee. Many of mean birth have obtained the love of Princes, and ladies of great worth, & by daring to attempt wedded and bedded them. If the ignoble have had such success in love, Rouse thee dastard from this loathsome cabinet, arm thee with hopes of thy Mistress favour, and with courage seek to obtain it: let grief no longer oppress thee, but like the son of thy renowned father, show thyself; let not daring love, which by many good motions may be vanquished, overthrow thee by subjecting thyself overmuch unto it, but in the face of the enemy show thyself, and there by prowess purchase such renown, as the report of thy valour may gain thee the love of her thou most desirest. women's loves for the most are settled on the valiant and such as adventure, holding in rgarde such as by their valour, can and will maintain their honours, bearing in triumph their favours in the field, and gaining honour in their titles. I, thus Dionicus should be thy thoughts, hold thee there, and no doubt of good success: Nutania is but a woman though a Princess, thou son to a King, and no way her inferior. Then continue this resolution and Nutania may in time, aswell seek thy favour, as the noble Amozonia, Alexander's love.  
Scantly had he ended this his tedious premeditation, when word was brought unto him by one of his Pages, that the Lord Cariolus was come to visit him, which did put him from all further imaginations at that time.  
Cariolus no sooner come to his presence, but Dionicus with a blushing countenance bade him welcome, ashamed of his rash suspicion; yet concealing the same as he might, framed such kind speech as he best could, the better to assure his welcome, not sparing oftentimes to render great and hearty thanks for his kindness in coming to visit him: and more to show how glad he was of his company, he called to rise, which he had not done long before, but for necessity making his bed. Thus when long time was spent between them, discoursing of many matters, to both their contents, Dionicus called for meat; where to accompany Cariolus, he received more sustenance than he had in many days before, to the great joy of his attendant Barnardine, who by messengers certified the King and Queen thereof, who joyed, and were not a little comforted at this report.  
Dinner ended, & Cariolus with the Prince devising to beguiled the time, loath suddenly to leave him, called for a Chésse board, wherewith they sported a while, Dionicus, whom grief of mind procured soon to melancholy, losing two or three fair games, became very impatient, to aggravate whose choler, and make his fury the more, Cariolus playing for cunning, to make game, took his queen, and gave check to his king, whereat the Prince forgetting both himself and other those motions so lately by him minded, first violently striking him with the board, ran fiercely on him: and taking him by the throat, cried mainly out thus; Villain quoth he, shamest thou not to rob me of my Lady, my Love, my life, and soul's comfort, but to my teeth must check me therewith in my own Country, (base fugitive) thou shalt beard me no more therewith, for by thy miserable death, will I recover to mine own possession, my love, my Lady, my Queen, yea in despite of thy head, Nutania shall be my mistress, sweet Princess, the only sovereign of my thoughts.  
Barnardine, and his Noble attendants, seeing this friendship lately professed, so suddenly forgotten, taking him with much ado from Cariolus, were not a little perplexed, but as men past themselves, having never seen the like, could imagine no cause, greatly doubting that suddenly he was grown lunatic.  
Cariolus vexed at this hard usage of the Prince, was no sooner freed from him, but in great choler would have departed; Protesting to be revenged for this discourtesy offered him. Affrming, that his enticing speeches, in colour of kindness, was to no end, but to draw him from his honourable friends to murder him.  
Barnardine careful what might ensue hereof, weighing each occasion which might hereat be taken, besought Cariolus, of that love he bear the King his master, which had used them honourably, of his love to his own King, and all that might be imagined, to conceive of this wrong offered, as of no such pretended matter, as he supposed: but rather with patience to consider the long extreme sickness of the Prince, and how subject by reason of his infirmity he was unto melancholy, undertaking on his faith and honest reputation, how ever the occasion grew, it was not in malice: assuring him, the Prince when he should call to mind this unkind action, would with grief lament it, and sorrowing for the same, submit himself, craving hearty forgiveness for his rashness.  
Barnardine vexed at the heart, for this unkind dealings of the Prince, entreating his associates, to persuade Cariolus, went himself to the prince, and after dutiful speech to his grace, recounted unto him, in what evil part Cariolus took this abuse by him offered: humbly beseeching him, as he esteemed the love of his Princely father, and the honour & reputation of his country, to acknowledge in some courteous manner the wrong committed, and so reconcile himself.  
Dionicus, whose passion had not it left him, albeit in his health none might more persuade him then Barnardine, yet hearing him preach repentance, being in this humour, forgot their passed friendship, and moved with his talk, albeit it was used for his good, with a look as ghastly, as a ghost risen from the grave, drew near Barnardine, and laying hands on him, had like to have mischieved him, had he not made the more speed away.  
Cariolus understanding what had been offered the aged man, and hearing in what regard the Prince held his love, passing by his choler, began with great heaviness to lament the Prince his agony, and sorrowing for him, besought the heavens creature so to comfort the Prince as himself would wish in the like extreme. And so leaving Barnardine and the Nobles to their charge, departed.  
The Nobles whose grief was not little, with hearts over charged with sorrow, thinking it not convenient to leave him alone, doubting some worse matter should happen unto him, went to visit the Prince cheerfully, inquiring of his welfare, which with so good countenances as he could use, was kindly answered of the Prince: who having past the extremity of his fury, calling to mind those notable abuses offered his friends, greatly lamenting his folly therein, he said:  
Where, where, my honourable friends, may I hide my head, to shelter me from the world's reproach, who void of all reason, more brutish than the savage beast, have sought to murder my dearest friends. Oh, how might (I blush with shame,) and ashamed of my evil committed, never behold the faces of those whom I have so evil entreated: what fury bewitched me to this mischief? Or what devilish sorcery enchanted my spirits, and captivated my senses, so to offend thee Lord Cariolus? who of thy zealous affection and courtesy, came to visit me, delighting so greatly in thy company as I did. And thou the father of gravity, my greatest hope in the world, Barnardine, thou whose honest care and love to me, hath been ever shown from my Cradle. Oh Barnardine, how ungrateful have I been, rewarding thy good, with the hazard of thy blood. Woe is me unhappy, and thrice unhappy, that I have lived to behold the light of this day, wherein past myself, I have so highly offended. Pardon, pardon, my Lord Cariolus, as thou art honourable, and thou Barnardine, whose aged years I have so highly offended: Forgive my miss, and remit that evil I have committed against thee, or let me never behold the days light again. Why should I live, whom mine own conscience so highly accuseth of such impiety? Will not the fowls of the air, soaring over thy head as thou walkest, cry out, (ungrateful Dionicus) that wouldst have murdered thy friends: each creature that God hath made, will exclaim against thee, for this evil, following thee with cries of horror, to thy everlasting reproach. Therefore unhappy Dionius, since by thy own doings this reproach is happened upon thee, whereby for ever thou art dishonoured, and no man hereafter will dare to use any familiarity with thee, no not one, from the Prince to the beggar, (live not, live not thou Dionicus,) but let that hand that committed the evil, finish thy life, which living, can never be unremembered. In this fury, resolving to have mischiefed himself, his Nobles taking him in their Arms, with such comfortable speeches as they could, pacified him, who seeing his sorrowfulness, were partakers of his grief, and much lamented his extremity, as men might for their Sovereign. Yet casting of care, seeking the best for their quiet they could, they laid him in his bed, where, with solemn music they procured him to sleep. Where for a time I leave him.  
Time that finisheth all things, hath now wrought an end of the King's affairs, for the dispatch of the Ambassadors, whom the King with great entertainment and jewels of high esteem, so rewarded, as they all had cause to speak of his royal bounty. The Ambassadors receiving their Letters, and the time appointed for their departure, their ships with victuals at the Kings cost replenished, and all other necessaries, Cariolus who had been often solicited by Barnardine, to visit the Prince, and by his report whose word was of account with all that had knowledge of his simple dealings, was persuaded of the Prince's sorrow, for the wrong offered him. Wherefore that it might appear unto Dionicus, he departed not in displeasure, but that he had forgotten all wrongs offered, kindly, before his departure, came to take his leave. Where, upon the courteous demeanour of the Prince, who manifested his grief by the abundance of sighs which he powered forth, they were reconciled, and an inviolably league of friendship vowed between them: which with solemn oaths they protested, should never quail in either of them.  
The haste of the noble Ambassadors who desired to be with their Loves at home, is more now than Cariolus wished: But what must be, shall be, how loath soever. Wherefore after many friendly gratulations between them, and great gifts of the Prince, on his new (Amico) bestowed, they take leave each of other, Cariolus solemnly praying for the Prince's health, and Dionicus wishing him all happiness.  
Thus all things fitted by the King command, they were honourably conducted unto the port, where their ships ready furnished, attended their coming: where they had not long stayed, but a fair wind to serve their turns, God sent them; and they embarked themselves, each one for his several country, and the Nobles returned to the Court; where to their careful regard of their king, Country's benefit, we leave them, to let you know further of the Prince; whose is troubled, as you shall hear.  
The Prince, whom Nature had form so exquisite in lineaments of body, as could be required, having wisdom and valour enferiour to none, when he had considered with great wisdom from point to point, the extremity of his estate, and found that his disease was grievous, and so great, that he rather desired death, than life, in that agony to be continued; weighing all dangers which might befall him, in seeking secretly for such help, as by his own industry he could procure: with the pleasures and hearts content, the obtaining of his loves delight, would bring him; resolutely determined, as much as he might, to cherish himself: and disguising himself in habit of a traveler, unknown of any man, so soon as his strength would permit him, he departed his Country towards Thrace, and either gain his Lady, or try in short time the fickleness of fortune: hazarding all on this rest, he secretly procureth all his jewels, and such sums of money as he could: and by little and little recovering himself, used his wonted familiarity amongst the Nobles, and Courtiers; which did cause no small content and hearts joy in the King, Queen and Commons; yea, such was the general rejoicing of the whole people in the Realm, for his recovery, that there▪ was not one, which showed not some sign of gladness by his outward appearance.  
As there is not the clearest day which is not overwhelmed with some cloud, so lasted this joy amongst these loving subjects not long: for Dionicus continuing his determination, conveyed his sums of money and jewels into a grove within the Park near the Court, at such several times as he would choose to be solitary, wrought so close, and with such discretion, that he was altogether unperceived of any man.  
Each thing wrought to his content, secretly in the evening, his companions by him appointed to keep the Courtiers from idleness, by such pastimes as he had devised, as Masking, Barriors, dicing, and other recreations, whom he refused to accompany, alleging that he might not be long absent from the King, and that his sport determined, was to recreate the Queen, who since her sickness was very melancholy, which coined excuse passed for currant, as what was it they would not credit which he should report.  
Having thus politicly fitted all things, supper ended, and every one attending the beginning of the sports and pastimes, Dionicus who had more strings to his Harp then one, had no care but how to convey himself from their presence, which he took opportunity to do, telling the Queen mother he had given his word to be one of the Maskers, which she being glad of, as rejoicing to remove his melancholy by any means, suffered him to departed.  
But too soon alas, gave she credit to his feigned speeches, which turned them all to great sorrow and heaviness: for Dionicus minding least what they supposed he most joyed in, conveyed himself with all the hast he possibly could into the Park, where his footman attended his coming with his horse, on which he was no sooner mounted, to drive suspicion or jealous thoughts of his late travail from his man, he commanded him presently, to speed him with all the haste he might, unto the house of a Knight dwelling not far off, with a devised message, pretending the business to be of great weight and importance, and straightly charging him not to departed from thence before his coming, which should be the next night. With this commandment the servant departed, least suspecting the loss of so bountiful a master was so near. But the Prince whose chiefest content was in beholding the Idia of that Paragon whom Fame had so extolled, had his heart fired with desire, that he thought every day a year, and every minute a month, until he beheld the excellency of Nature's work, the only performed work of Beauty, and the sovereign goddess of his thoughts: of which Dionicus having no small regard, doubting to be miss of the King, and loath to lose that opportunity, posteth with all speed unto the grove where his coin and jewels lay, where the better to escape the suspicion of Officers in his passage, crossing the seas, he attired himself in the habit of a merchant, which he had ready provided for that purpose: and so making small stay, he ceaseth not his coriours' pace, nor spareth any horse flesh, until he came to the port where he pretended to embark himself. No sooner arrived he at that so long desired place, but Fortune who had bend his thoughts to travail, intending after her many crosses to sauce his sour with some swéets, and like a comfortable Physician, after many bitter Pills ministered for cloying the stomach of his Patient, comforteth him with some conserve or other more pleasing his appetite, so the Prince now in the beginning of his fortunes, found this favour, to arm him with the better hope of ensuing good: for at his first coming to the City, after inquiry made for some ship bound for Thrace, he had intelligence of a Bark already haled out of the harbour into the road, her yards crossed, and her Mariners expecting the coming a board of the master and her merchants, and so to departed. Which news how pleasing it was to the prince, suppose you gentiles, that have your hearts so full fraught with desire as this noble Dionicus, who no sooner was informed hereof, but diligently went himself to search the master & merchants of this ship, whom he found in an Ostria, carousing healths to their good voyage, and taking leave of their friends in the city: to whose company the Prince being come; albeit nothing acquainted with the conditions of those people, yet he so framed his behaviour to his habit, that it might have been admired amongst the Courtiers, his acquaint behaviour, had they been beholders thereof; pleasing so well these humorous companions with his carousing, courtesy, and bountiful expenses, that nothing he could require was denied him. A wonder it were to tell you, when he required passage, with what willingness they granted it, and what large proffers were made him of their cabins, and other sea courtesies: all which he accepted with such kindness, and none more welcome than Dionicus; who standing on thorns to be clear of his land, whom love enforced without regard of father, crown, or subjects, to leave, he hasteneth the rest aboard: of whose company the Mariners were not a little joyful, for that the wind served them in such pleasing manner, to bring them to their desired haven, whither (following the Master's direction for their course, sailing with a fair gale, we leave them for a time, to tell you of the grief of Manpelius, the Numedian king, for the loss of his son, of whom no manner of news might be heard.  
You have heard Gentles, with what policy the prince wrought, the better to bring his purposed intent to pass, and what several pastimes, were by him devised: in which several actions, it was supposed by the Courtiers, himself would have been a chief, or at least, a beholder of their sports. But he which had more hammers working in his brains than one; taking that time as fittest for his opportunity, gave them a cause of great sorrow, as you shall hear. Whose sports ended, and every thing with great credit to the actors, and pleasure to the beholders finished, the King and Queen, whom age now called to rest, after kind countenances, and many thanks to the Noble men & Gentiles, bade them good night, who were in all humbleness and hearty love commended to their rests, where let them rest, until the news of their son's departure be brought them, by the woeful Barnardine, whose hearts surcharged with sorrow, could hardly be comforted, but that through the extremity of his grief, he had resigned his latest gasp to him who first gave him breath.  
This woeful news was two whole days and more kept from the king, by that mirror of fidelity Barnardine, who by all means either Art or travel could imagine, inquired after the Prince, but of him could hear no tidings, whereby many supposed he was slain: some conjectured one thing, some another. But most of all the King & Queen, their happiness was such as may not without great effusion of tears be remembered, which caused a general grief throughout the whole Regiment. But neither sorrow of the subjects, nor lamentation of their King, might recall him who they all so much desired to see, which caused the King overcharged with melancholy, rather desiring death then life, breath out these speeches.  
Unhappy (Manpelius) and more unhappy, in being father to so graceless a child, (oh Dionicus) why have I lived to see thee grown a man? tenderly caring to bring thee to that estate? and now my chiefest hope was in thee to have comfort, thus by thy unkind demeanour, to cause my grief: how happy be those parents whose children live in obedience; but thrice accursed those fathers which giveth the bridle of youth into their hands, who ought to be held in, as the Colt untamed, with the hardest bit. Though wisdom presageth laws of government to fathers, and experience of the Ancient which have lived in elder times giveth advise, crying out of such as giveth liberty to younglings, yet law of nature whereunto we unhappy parents are too much tied, forgetting all counsels, are so besotted on those careless younglings, that if they desire any thing, whether it be profitable for their instruction, or haileth them to destruction, it may not be denied them: how many of high estate by the careless regard of their untoward children, have been brought to great heaviness? Or who taking pleasure in his offspring, can see him restrained, (I but unhappy man) hast thou not heard the learned Surgeon often tell his tender Patient, that it is better to smart once, then endure grief ever. And thou that mightest have kept thy dear son under his Tutor's custody, wherein he lived in obedience, might so have had him still, if thy owns foolishness had not been so careless of him. Then since thou hast been the cause of thine own sorrow, blame thyself, and sigh to think on thy follies: and as thou hast been the original of this mischief, not only robbing thy country of a toward branch to succeed thee, but hast lost to thyself the joy of a father, in wanting thy son, thy life's sole happiness. Persuade thee, that as many Countries have been punished for the Prince's offences, so this plague is laid upon thy subjects for thy miss. Wherefore in sorrowing for thy sins, and that God may show his mercy upon thy kind Country men, sorrow for thy foppery, and abjuring thy▪ self from kingdom, wife, and Country, betake thee to some unknown place, where thou mayest spend the remainder of thy over worn years, in contemplation for thy sins, so may that God of all mercy, which never turneth his face from the penitent, receive thee to his grace, and restore thy son, calling him from his youthful desires, to become a comfort unto those which with many fault tears, and hearts full gorged with sorrow, bewail his absence. Thus pouring forth his grief with sighs and many brinish tears, uttering his sorrow, he resolved to leave all his earthly possessions, and altogether forsaking the company of all mankind, live solitary in some unfrequented place, until it would please God some tidings should be sent him of his son, or else by death call him to those joys which never shall have end. Thus for this time he ended his sorrowful speech, uttered in great grief of mind, whom careful for to espy time and opportunity fit for his departure, we leave for a time. And shall tell you further of the Prince Dionicus, who long before this time, is arrived in Thrace.  
The Prince whom desire led to gain the love of Nutania, not otherwise known but for a merchant, landed now in safety, after a friendly welcome given to his fellow passengers, the Master and Owners, with bountiful rewards bestowed on the Mariners, was lodged by the Master in a merchants house of great reputation, where unknown to be any other than he seemed, he employed his stock by Brokers, to great benefit, which bountifully he spent, whereby he gained the love of all men that ever had any acquaintance with him, so that in short time his fame was so bruited throughout the City, that none of any account, but took great pleasure in his company, and joyed to recount his many virtues. This amorous Prince whose heart was on his halfpenny, loath to acquaint any man with his secret love to the Princes, doubting some further peril to his person than he was willing to hazard, would oftentimes intrude himself into the company of young Courtiers, amongst whom he so demeaned himself, and so Courtly in all things, that all men might judge from what tree such branches sprung. By this often frequenting of the Court, in the company of those to whom he was most welcome, he attained the sight of his Lady, whose beauty, when he had seen, so amazed him, that if he were before passionate, he was now more perplexed, judging her excellent perfection to be without compare, yet not knowing how to make known his love unto her, smothering in silence his affection, he daily desired some occasion might be offered, wherein for her safety, and honour of his beloved, he might show some act worthy honour, and to deserve her liking, which by Fortune's assistance thus happily came to pass.  
Mustopha Corienia, youngest son to Sutton Corienia, Emperor of Constantinople, burning in love of this Princess, only by the rare report of her singular perfections, had by Ambassadors from his father, craved the Princess in marriage, who disdaining his love being a Pagan, although honourable, might not be won by any entreaty to fancy him, how great soever his offers and protestations of love were; which refusal, the Prince brooked so ill, being of such might, that determining to gain her by force for his concubine, which in friendship he had so often required to marry, he levied a power of one hundred thousand, both on horse and foot, and shipping them in warlike manner, in Galleys, Frigattes, foists, and Brigandioces, he arrived by the hard labour and painful bowging of his slaves, before the City of Lemonia, where Philarchus kept his Court, landing the greatest part of his men and horse suddenly, and beleagared the same, both by land and sea: unto which he gave many fierce and hot assaults, & were as valiantly resisted, by the courage of those gallant Citizens, who fight in right of their Country, feared not the hugeness of their Armies, nor their force of shipping, yet as the extremes of foreign force causeth many troubles, so did the Army of Mustapha, drive these brave Thracians to many wants, whose courage through the lack of victuals began to quail: that having no mean of relief neither by sea nor land, loath to famish, came daily to the court, humbly beseeching the King to take pity of them, and not with famine to suffer them die. But considering that the Princess was the mark whereat he aimed, would rather deliver her, who should be honourably entreated, then suffer so many thousands to perish.  
Philarchus, vexed in mind, was driven to a non plus, so diversly perplexed, he could not suddenly answer, his child who was his only comfort and heir, either to be delivered him, whose name was odious unto him, or his subjects who loved him no less than their own souls, must perish in this extreme. Thus doubtful what to answer, he craved respite for two days, which they willingly yielded unto, albeit their want of victuals was so great they might hardly endure.  
The report of this doleful suit of the commons coming to the ears of Dionicus, who with his attire, we change to Pheander, who was not a little moved there, and the greater was his heaviness by how much the more his love was increased towards the Princess, for whose relief he sought many devices, eftsoons determining one thing, than another presents itself, which seemeth better: at length resolving least delays should breed danger, he determined in that action which was honourable, to show himself, and either by his prowess free the King and his beloved from the tyranny of the usurping Infidel, or yield his latest gasp in their defence.  
In this resolution he came to the king's presence, unto whom doing his humble duty, prrostrating himself, he saith.  
Most gracious Sovereign, and liege Lord, pardon the bold attempt of a rude stranger, whom dutiful zeal hath bound to your service, and of your gracious favour to all men, vouchsafe me that honour in this extreme, wherein your worthy citizens stand, distressed by this faithless infidel, who doth seek your subversion and their utter decay: whose presumption, if it please your Excellence to give me leave, shall by me, and such as I can by love and money draw unto me, be chastened, and made to know your Highness can expel at your pleasure, the power of a more strong and mightier enemy, who though you have of courtesy suffered, it hath not been of cowardice, as he shall well understand. In this request, most gracious and renowned Sovereign, if it shall please you to honour me, I doubt not (by the aid of the highest) of a happy victory.  
The King, which during his long tale, had earnestly noted the countenance, and his grace in uttering the same, assured himself, that the honour of his house, which showed in his courage, or the power of the eternal Deity wrought this motion in him, and therefore without any longer pause, taking him courteously from his knees, determining to try the fortunes of this supposed Merchant, he saith.  
What ever thou be that honour urgeth to this attempt, thanks for thy love, wishing my good, and forwardness in venturing thy life, yet before I accept thee for my Champion, say (gentle friend) of what country art thou? what name and parentage? to the end that I may give thee honour as thy deserts and blood do require: and answering me truly to these demands, tell me what moved thee likewise, being so brave a man, and in thy flourishing estate, to hazard thyself in an action, wherein so many men of honour and great valour have lost their lives.  
Know renowned Lord (quoth the Prince) Numedia is my country, my father a Gentleman professing martial Discipline, my name Pheander, the youngest of many of my father's sons, unto whom my minority denied such revenues and livings as might sufficiently maintain my estate, which caused me to employ my stock in trade of merchandise, by which in time of peace I gained in your country wealth sufficient, which with my body I offer in your highness service, and doubt not but to free thy princely daughter from this usurper, whose virtue the world so much renowneth for, by that faith which I received at the Font-stone, so long as I may breathe life, never shall unhallowed Cur, triumph in your Grace's overthrow, nor in her dishonour.  
The king over joyed at these frank affairs of his champion, expressing by his outward signs, the inward delight of his heart, and the desire he had to accept this younglings offer, taking great pleasure in his countenance, which was lovely, and no way inferior to the best in his court for person, wisdom, and other good graces, which with advise considered, he saith.  
Pheander, well dost thou show thyself a Gentleman, for under the habit of a Merchant Gentility cannot be hid, no poor estate can blemish the Noble, nor adverse fortune whatsoever; but as gold is soon brought from the base mettles to his form by the skilful finer, so are the Noble known by their virtues. Pheander, I have cause to honour thee for thy love and forwardness, as also for thy country; which (without flattering thee, or any their abiding) I love for your King's sake. But to our matter, thou seest (my dear Pheander) the millions of cares heaped upon my grey head, through the oppression of this heathen Prince, whereby I am made more miserable than the meanest subject in my dominions; and the more is my misery, by recounting the wretched estate of my loving subjects, whom I hold as dear as my life, and with that by resigning my life and crown, I might free them from bondage, were it nothing else the tyrant required. But toward Gentleman, whose love (wretch that I am,) I cannot requite, my daughter (oh sorrow worse than death to recount) Nutania, the only solace of my life, and lines sole good, in whose weal consisteth my good, & by violence offered her, what good can be tied me, she: she, my dear Pheander, it is that drencheth my soul into so deep a hell, that almost forgetting myself, living, I daily die; only recounting the miseries ●he should endure, if the tyrant triumphed in our overthrow: but he that in extremes sendeth comfort, hath revived me, & relieved my overcharged heart by thy kind offer; whose courage and hope of victory being such, as thou wilt hazard thy dearest blood for my daughter's freedom. Thanks (my good Pheander) is all that I can yet yield thee; yet t●ad more courage to thy noble mind, fight for us & our honour, my daughter, for whose good thou adventurest, shall invest thee with the order of Knighthood, the first honour that ever she gave to man of Arms, and shall pray for thy good success: so calling for the Princess, who was so discontent that nothing could be pleasing unto her, who being come before him, after her humble duty done, desirous to know her kingly Father's will, he recounted the zeal of the merchant unto her, who had not only offered his goods, but also his proper life, to try in battle his fortunes against their enemy: wherefore Nutania, quoth the king, for that he hath so voluntarily offered the same for thy sake, and I relying on my God, and in his prows have accepted him for my Champion, by thy hand he shall receive the honour of knighthood, his title, The maiden Knight, and so prosper he in his honourable action, and in all others as we wish, and himself desireth.  
The Princess, which divers times had noted the courtly behaviour of Dionicus, was not a little pleased at her father's motion, as one that in hearty good will, wished him better than modesty would suffer her to utter; yet hearkening to her father's speeches, she beheld him with more gracious countenance, and viewing the lineaments of his person, each grace well regarded, she inwardly bewailed his hard hap, that the gods had framed him of no better reputation than a merchant, who might well deserve the title of a king, put from her memento, by recounting her father's words, pausing thereon sometime, with modest blushing countenance she said.  
Kind sir, whose honourable service offered for my father's good, and all our weals, his subjects; if I yield you not such recompense as your deserts do merit, blame me not of discourtesy, which have no better knowledge of you, but accept the hearty thanks of a Virgin, unto whom I hold myself so far indebted, as I can no other way recompense, then wishing your good; yet in earnest of better good, refuse not at my hand to receive the honour of Knighthood, seeing my Lord's pleasure is such: and drawing his rapier, the Prince kneeling, she invested him with the order, by name of the Maiden Knight, & pulling a jewel of rich price from her gown, she tied the same in a most beautiful scarf, beseeching him to wear it for her sake, wishing all happy fortune in his attempts.  
The new adopted Knight, whose heart over joyed for so great a favour received from the saint his heart wholly honoured, with many thanks dutifully rendered, kissed the Princess hand, vowing himself her humble servant, and in all places to maintain her modest beauty & Princely honour, with his dearest blood.  
The time thus passed, word was brought the King, that dinner was ready, whereby they were interrupted, whom for a time we leave to their repast, discoursing diversly at table, of the valour of the Maiden Knight, whose towardness the King admired; which made his hopes the greater: not doubting but his Champion would prove no less valiant in Arms than they expected. At which the Princess gloried not a little, and the Nobles pleased at both their comforts, passed the time with more content than many days before, whom we leave to their mirth, and the Maiden Knight, to the ordering of his affairs.  
The Numedian King, exiling himself from his Court, in habit of a Pilgrim, traveled many uncouth places in search for his son, of whom he could hear no tidings, neither could Barnardine for all the industry he could use, attain to any knowledge of him his heart so much desired: through which the heaviness both of the Peers & Commons, were daily increased. And no marvel, when their sovereign the mirror of all princely courtesy, had thus unknown, in the declining of his age, when his years required rest, banished himself his country, loving subjects, and what else he enjoyed: the grief of which so oppressed the heart of the Queen, that nothing might yield her any comfort. But pining in continual sorrow, utterly abandoning the world's comfort, to seek her comforter, whose dwellings are in the highest heavens, she yielded her due to death, whose funerals, with the effusion of many brinish tears of the Nobles, and sorrowful lamentations of her subjects, was performed with such honour as to her estate required: whose obsequys finished, Barnardine regarding the benefit of the Commonweal, and the Princes good, of whom their hope was to learn knowledge, used so kind persuasions to the whole estate, in a parliament holden of purpose, that the regiment was delivered by consent, unto six of the chiefest nobles, who were solemnly sworn to maintain the dignities of the Crown, in absence of the king & his son, unto whom, being lawful heirs to the same, they should resign their titles, whensoever they should challenge the same. Now Gentiles leave we these distressed people, lamenting their king's absence & the queens death, to tell you of the Maiden Knight.  
This gallant Prince, the hope of Thrace, careful of his honour, & not unmindful of his new mistress, whose love was the mark he aimed at, hoping by accomplishing this victory against the Sultan, to gain that place of reputation with her that he desired: for the better accomplishing of which, he proclaimed by sound of Trumpet, that all such as would in the action adventure their lives with him, should bountifully be considered, all estates from the Cavileare, to the Mercenary, caused many to offer him their sons, so that in short time, he had gathered more able men than ever in so small warning were seen; such was the love his bounty had gained among all estates, that of their kindness many repaired, more than for of money, although the thought thereof is able to draw the coward to fight, so highly was this stranger honoured. The diligence was such of this Prince, that in short time he had his companies, which were so furnished, as he lived not in those territories that ever saw the like. All things furnished for the field, he became an earnest suitor to the Princess his mistress, to procure the king to view his army, which with small suit she obtained for him, gracing him with all the favours she might, more delighting in him then in all the men that ever she saw. The time appointed for his muster, after he had given directions to all such Leaders & other Officers, what course to take with their several charge, they were conducted to the place appointed by himself, who mounted on a stately Courser, passed on through the City, his Captains attired in Gascoin coats of watchet velvet, having on the breast & back embossed with goldsmith's work, a Maiden head, according to his devise on his arms, with the colour of his mistress scarf: every under officer in like suits of satin, his mercenary men in jackets, hose and hats coloured alike, which caused the beholders, to admire the stranger more than their princes. When the king beheld this mirror of honour, least thinking he was son to his loving friend the Numedian king, and had with great delight viewed each several officer and their charge, with their order of march, and ranging in battle, all accomplished in such warlike manner, as seldom he had seen: and withal noted his person, with his bravery in armour, his gallant sitting a horse, and manuring the same, his charging, running, and other signs of ensuing good, giving him great thanks, he caused him to dismiss his companies for that time, to attend his pleasure at the Court, which he caused suddenly to be done, attending the king's pleasure at the Court, as he was commanded: the news of his arrival being brought to the Princess, who had seen with what cost and rare devices, each thing by her servant was performed, judging likewise his love to her was some cause, by his colours and devices, willing to let him know how graciously the same was accepted, she came into the Presence, where finding her Knight, after she had with a kind and loving Congee saluted him, calling him to a bay Window, with a modest and comely grace she said:  
Sir, how much I find myself indebted unto you, for your preffered service, and forwardness in performing the same, I will not say, that in time what wants in me to accomplish, my kingly father will recompense, who hath seen and well noted your diligence used for his safety, with your cost and great charge, which he will not forget. In the mean time good servant, for so I will henceforth call you, so you will vouchsafe to accept of the title; I will pray for your good success and happy victory, whereby your renown may pass the farthest parts of the earth, and our Country by your prowess delivered from heathen thraldom.  
Virtuous Princess answered the Maiden Knight, might it please your exellence to conceive of my well meaning, as my desire is to deserve, my fortune might be compared with the happiest that liveth. For on the faith of a Soldier, and by the Majesty of that saint my heart most adoreth, there is none breathing life under the celestial globe, that shall command the simple service of Pheander, but your Majesty, bound thereunto by your Princely favours. Enough my good servant, quoth the Princess, I take your word, having great cause to believe you, seeing your forwardness: But good servant, if I might under Benedicitie, know the saint unto whom your devotions are bend, I would be so bold to offer a virgins prayer at her shrine for your good success. The King over hearing their talk, broke them off thus.  
How now Madam, what have you that Gentleman at shrift, (if so) and that his confection deserve a sharp penance, yet be good to him, he may in time amend.  
Your grace (quoth the Princess) mistakes yourself, your highness knoweth I never took orders, therefore my authority is not to absolve, and if by presumption I offend therein, I doubt the Fathers of our Church would reward me thereafter. But to let your majesty know the truth, perceiving the desire he hath to do you service, I was bold to give him thanks: further recompense, I leave to your exellence, who at your pleasure may better reward him.  
Thou hast well said daughter, quoth the King, putting me in mind what I should do, least forgetting my honour to such as well deserve, I be reckoned amongst the number of those Princes who with fair words and kind looks feed their subjects, so long as they have either Patrimony or other to do them service, to the utter overthrow of their posterities for ever, and they so far in debt they dare not show their heads, then shall they get (perhaps) some suit worth a hundred pounds a year, that have consumed many thousands, maintaining a brave port, for his Prince's honours. What said I? a hundred pounds a year, nay, not that, without the favour of such as be chiefest in authority, and are near the prince, whose good will if they can procure (it may be) they shall obtain some small thing, scarce able to maintain the port of a good yeoman: for I tell thee, such must be pleased, or else let the prince's mind be forward to reward them, and by their bounty relieve their wants, their good natures by persuasion of such as think all too much which goeth from themselves, & such as they please to bestow it upon, shall be abused. Thus have I heard gentle Knight, and grieve, that honour should so unkindly be rewarded; or that any subject, should forget his duty▪ so much, as for his own lucre, cause those that spend their blood in their country's defence, their lands and possessions, with empty purses and heavy hearts, like men forlorn to walk the streets: exclaiming on them that should see their service better rewarded to the dishonour of the state they live in. This my Pheander, I often recount, least in forgetting it, I fall to infamy by committing the like; but he that gave me reason to know good, and to follow it, will never suffer me to fall into so great folly, nor let me live, to forget those maimed brave men, that venture for my good and my country's weal: for while I may breathe, the soldier shall be honoured in Thrace, and shall reap the reward of his merits, neither shall these Drones, which in such times of perils, hide their heads, suck the honey off my garland. Like minds I wish all princes, with careful eyes to look into the doings of such, who as the moth devoureth the fine cloth, consumeth their princely reputation, & drawthe commons, who by duty are bound to love, from their allegiance. While the king was in this speech, word was brought him, that a Herald from the camp attended his pleasure at the gate, requiring parley, which he suddenly granted, commanding him to be brought to his presence: this unhallowed pagan, who never feared God, nor was endued with any humanity, come unto the king's presence, with a shameless countenance, used this peremptory speech.  
King of Thrace, Mustaffa Cela, great commander of the empire, & general of those royal armies, sendeth thee by me, thy choice either of wars or peace (peace) if thou deliver thy daughter unto him whom he hath so often required, yet whereas his love unto her hath been such, to make her his wife, his noble mind despiseth her so much, as his highness will never so much honour her, but in despite of thee, and to abate the pride of that disdainful dame, he will use her as his concubine; & when he shall have taken the flower of her virginity, give her to the basest villain in his camp. Thou knowest my embassage: deliver her, & live; or by me return thy resolute answer, for it shall not be many days ere thy city shall flame with fire about thine ears.  
The king vexed at this unexpected message, could not answer him, so moved was his choler, yet with as much patience as nature would permit, he said: Pagan, I have heard, & with great pain endured thy Lords peremptory message: and that thou, & that Cur, from whom thou comest, shall know the great difference between a Christian & him, & that he understand how honourable we hold the law of arms, I pardon thee thy life, which thy presumption doth require sharply to be punished. For answer to thy Lord, this briefly say, his threats I regard not: for my daughter, as God hath given her me, and for she is the only joy of my aged life, I will shield her, & in despite of the Pagan and his greatest power, defend her chastity: therefore depart and say to thy Lord from me, his threats Iwey no more than the words of a child: it is not his multitudes can daunt me, were they ten times more than they are, my daughter I will hold in despite of his beard, proud usurper that he is. Thou knowest my will, make no stay.  
The Herald noting the stern countenance of the king, and hearing his resolution, thought it not good to stay a reply, lest his tongue swelling in his mouth, might not be eased without loss of his head; but glad to escape his fury, conveyed him from his presence with all speed he could, posting to the pavilion of the prince, unto whom he delivered the kings resolute answer, which he no sooner heard, but like one besides himself, he vowed in three days to be revenged of the old churl, who should fast the bitterness of his youthful fury. Little knoweth this proud enemy, the preparation made to bid him welcome, or that his own destruction was so near as after it proved. The Maiden Knight, which with no small grief had endured this proud demand of the herald, whose whole request was for dishonour of her, he so much honoured, awaked from melancholy, as out of a sound sleep, prostrating himself before the king, he saith: renowned Sovereign, with what grief I have endured the presumption of this usurper, my heart denieth my tongue to utter, neither shall I have joy of any thing, till I revenge the wrongs offered your M. & your princely daughter, upon that dog. Wherefore dread Lord, grant me licence to issue out of the city with my companies, in the silent of the night, & I hope ere long to return his proud challenge, with my sword in his throat. Thanks good knight, quoth the King, I accept thy offer as much as if thou hadst given me the whole world in possession, yet would I not so forward a man should adventure himself without my company, whose cause it is, myself will accompany thee in the fight, and by my herald bid him battle, in which I doubt not of success.  
The Knight was not a little moved, to hear his suit take no better success, yet not willing to endure any competitor in the honour he hoped of, humbly besought his Majesty of the honour he bore to Arms, in this attempt to give him leave, & the rather for the reputation of the Princess, which had given him his first honour.  
The king which saw by his countenance how malcontent, he rested at this denial, how loath so ever he were to grant the same, yet yielded to his desire: and taking him from his knee, lovingly embracing him, he saith. Brave man at arms, take not in ill part, that I have denied, neither think that it was in any sort to disparaged you, or the hope I have of your forwardness, but for maintaining my own honour; yet seeing your will is to adventure for me, go in God's name, and he be your defence, that ever comforteth his distressed: and so pulling his signet from his finger, he gave it him, willing that it be delivered to the Governor of the city, & let him understand, his highness pleasure was, that he with his army pass at his pleasure: and so taking his humble leave of the king and gracious mistress, which affecteth him more than he could conceive, he departeth, more joyful of this honour, then to be richly endowed.  
No sooner parted he the king's presence, but slacking as little time as was possible, he summoned his captains, and officers, straightly charging them with all the diligence he could use, to gather their companies, & to attend him in the market place: in which charge, no negligence was used, so that by shutting in of the evening, each captain with his charge both horse and foot, attending the coming of their general; who was not unmindful of his business, & after thanks given to their leaders, he marched with them to the gate that led them to the camp of the Sultan, & was upon sight of the king's signet let out. Thus marched the noble Prince, until he came half way between the camp & the city, where he called his principal men together, and said.  
Friends, and copartners in arms, you are now to consider what we have taken in hand, for that on our weal dependeth the whole estate of this common weal; if we prevail, what good it is to be freed from such an enemy, there is not the simplest but can conceive, having tasted the extremity which is incident to wars, and the pleasure of peace. Contrary, the slavery and servile lives which these are compelled to endure that fall into their hands, you may imagine by their opprobious usage of your gracious Prince, and example of other Christians which have fallen into their hands. Wherefore now is the time to show yourselves in this battle, if you show your force, no doubt of happy success, to your eternal commendations, and to the benefit of your Country, and freedom of your wives, children, and families: with these and other such speeches he so encouraged the hearts of his followers, as they vowed to follow him with the hazard of their dearest blood.  
When the Knight saw the willingness of his men, and that there resolution by outward motions, were as he expected, after he had given them many thanks, he made choice of five hundredth to bear him company. And after he had given directions for the Army to follow, he with his elected company marched on as closely as they might, for descrying of the enemy, who kept a Court of guard not far from thence, upon whom in the dead of the night they entered, and finding them at advantage, which little doubted any assault, having never before been assailed, were some sleeping, some gaiming, & others as ill employed, surprised, and not one left to bear tidings of their ill fortune. This first attempt well performed, he passed on with all speed towards the Camp, where the Prince lay, suddenly entered the same, where like a resolute and noble Gentleman, he so behaved himself, that it filled the hearts of his followers with great courage, who behaved themselves in such manner, that few escaped with life, but such as were grievously maimed, so that they rather desired death, then longer to live. The Prince, who was by one of his bashaws counseled to fly, as the least evil, for avoiding of death, was bravely mounted on a swift running G●nnef, of which the Maiden Knight being informed, leaving the fight, he posteth after with so good speed, as the harmless Hare, from the cruel jaws of the Greyhounds, such haste made this worthy CConquerour, that in evil time for the Prince, he overtook him, accompanied with twelve of his principal bashaws, whom he with courage so assailed, that in a moment he had vanquished them all, leaving some breathless, some without arms, others without legs, no one escaped his fury. In which conflict the Prince escaped, but all in vain, the Destinies had determined there to finish the honour of that journey by the hands of the Maiden Knight.  
Who overtaking him, gave him so grievous a blow with his Curtler between the neck and shoulders, as made him forget his way, saying, stay proud usurper, and take my Lady the Princess with thee: And pulling him vehemently by all the force he could by the helmet, unhorsed him, that the Knight verily supposed, he had been slain: wherefore dismounting himself, he revived him again, unto whom he said, My Lord, this is not for your honour to brave a King in his own Dominions and in his Court, by your Herald, and then to have so small care of your word. In faith pagan, for thy sake i'll never credit any Heathen on his word hereafter. Pity is it a Prince of your extéeme, should after so many Lectures read, play the Truant, (trust me) were I your father, I should twig the youth well, to learn him hereafter to be more careful of his business. The Prince hearing himself so frumped, was more grieved there at then all the loss he had received▪ Wherefore with a heart full of careful heaviness▪ he saith:  
Brave man at Arms, what ere thou be to whom fortune hath made me thrall, ill beseemeth such words of disgrace to any one whom the Fates have overthrown, but cursed myself which gave thee this opportunity, cursed that negligence, which maketh my foe thus to triumph in my fall. Thou Mahomet, suffer me not as thou art a Prophet, to live thus disgraced, to behold the face of any man surprised by so cowardly a cur, who daring not to thrust his head out of the cennell but by stealth, hath wrought my utter ruin and overthrow, taking his advantage. But glory not in this victory, for it may be, thou shalt have so great cause to repent thee thereof, as pleasure to behold me now thy prisoner.  
Your Lordship is disposed to be pleasant quoth the Knight, but it is the use of Christians, to give losers leave to speak, if it so happen, my fortune shall be the worse: In the mean time, your Grace shall be my guest, I have an hosts provided, will bid you welcome, who by this time I doubt not doth hear of your coming, that you need not fear of your dinner.  
The Prince full of heaviness, could not tell what to answer, wherefore Arming himself with all the patience he could to endure it, he was by this Conqueror, commanded to horse.  
Long had they not ridden towards his Army, but he was encountered by divers his Captains, who missing their General, at haphazard put themselves in search for him, and happily well they met him, who rejoicing for his good fortune, taking the Prince prisoner, they recount unto him, the ruin and spoil of the whole Army; for which their diligent courage and valour showed, he yieldeth them most great and hearty thanks, beseeching them to take charge of his Army, and divide the spoil amongst them: which done, repair at their pleasures to the City, while he with his prisoner, made haste to the King's presence.  
The tidings of the knights success, was by some such as honoured him, with speed reported at the Court, in which no part of his honours was left unrecounted, whose policy and valiantness in Arms, the King with all the Courtiers admired: Imagining him by these worthy deeds of Chivalry, to be the only man at Arms, deserving honour, in all that Region: of whom there was no small joy, and such fame and renown of his actions, as both in City and Court there was no talk but tended to the honour of the Maiden Knight, which liked not the Princess Nutania a little, to hear her servant in these his first attempts, venturing for her to have such fortunate success, so that where she had but begun to like him before, (Cupid) that commandeth the mightiest, began most furiously to assail her, that her tender heart vanquished therewith, was enforced to yield herself a slave to his deity: and giving over other courtlike delights, bend her whole study in seeking which way to win her best beloved to her liking, for the accomplishing of which, many ways were devised, but none thought sufficient; so that resting in a labyrinth of confused thoughts, commanding her attendants from her, she said:  
Nutania, what wretch that liveth, enjoyeth not more sweet content than thyself, who yielding to follow the follies of thy youthful mind, hast planted thy love thou knowest not on whom, a stranger, and of no more reputation than a Merchant, a base Trade, and most frawdulent, as I have heard many Nobles discuss, whereby they obtain to great wealth: and by their extraordinary means, wring such young Gentlemen as are forced to have to do with them, from their ancient Patrimonies, making of Noble men & Gentiles of great worship, beggars, and their own base-born brats, to become young masters, which in time, and small time, consumeth that in riot, which their miserable fathers, by extortion, false reckonings, unsatiable usury, and other lose dealings, sold their souls, the precious Image of our Saviour, to the devil. But wretched wretch▪ whither wanderest thou: these be no points for thee to stand upon, thou hast now vied the game, and art bound by such a band as there is no remedy but see it thou must: therefore leave to discourse what he was, or hath been. Thou hearest by general report of all men, he is honourable, in wars valiant, bountiful, and endued with all manner of Gentilmanlike conditions, which argueth him descended of better parentage, than he will acknowledge: And therefore cease not to love him, who by all conjectures, if outward shows proceed of the motion of the heart, regardeth thy honour; then requite his service Nutania, and seek in time to quench that flame, which beginneth but yet to warm, lest increasing by little and little, it consume thee. In extremes the Noble mind is best known, happy are they accounted, which forewarned can eschew a mischief; If thou canst win thy Love, what creature may be compared with thee for happy content? Be resolute Nutania, fear no colours, thy love is planted on such a one, who for his virtues may be mated with the greatest Princess on the earth: then stand not on terms of his being, but determine to love him, faint hearted soldier never gained conquest, if he be base, thou mayst advance him. Thou art heir to the Crown of Thrace, and thy father's sole delight, who then should gainsay thy will herein, (father's sole delight said I) yea there Nutania lieth a block which thou canst hardly remove. Thy father, what will he aged King say? when he shall hear of thy love so basely planted, which hast refused to be wife to two famous Kings, requiring thee with great suit in marriage: Refrain fondling from this rash determination, let thy father's love be a rain to hold thy unbridled will, fear his displeasure which gave thee life, and seek not by thy folly to bring his head with sorrow to his grave, which if thou persist, will be such a corrosive to his heart, and such a stain to thine honour, as the memory of nutania's disobedience will never be razed out. With these and such like motions of good, she sought to withdraw her love from him, that for birth and other noble actions deserved her better, albeit unknown to her: but what ever he be, the more she sought to suppress the flame of her love, the more it increased, that without regard of father's good, or her own honour, she determined to love him, yea the Maiden Knight with his Prize, was arrived at the Court, whom the King and Nobles welcomed with all courtesy they could show, as joyful of his safe return, who had so honourably borne himself in that action, as if he had conquered Europe, which kindness to the knight, was recompense sufficient for all his charge and hard adventure.  
The Princess, who was awaked from her studies by report of the knights coming, sumptuously attired as she could, as beseemed her estate, accompanied with all her troop of Ladies and maids of honour, came unto the Presence, who no sooner approached the place where the knight was, but beholding the exquisite perfection of her beauty which he so much delighted in, was suddenly bereaved of his senses, so that he stood as a man which had lost himself, yet reviving, loath to make manifest what with great grief he had consealed so long: humbly on his knees, presented the glory of his enterprise unto her, saying, Most gracious Princess, as by your most excellent hands I received my first step to honour, and fight for your Graces and Kingly father's sakes, it hath pleased God to prosper me with a happy victory, for which good, having nothing worthy to present your Grace as I desire, yet in knowledge of my duty to your Exellence, to whom my life and service is devoted, I humbly beseech you, accept this Gentleman my prisoner, and your Noble father's mortal enemy. The Princess to whom nothing could be more pleasing, than the sight of the beloved knight, graciously accepted the prisoner, rendering great thanks for the same, as also for his valour showed in their defence. And then turning to the captived Prince, she said:  
My Lord, you see the chance of Fortune, and how mutable she is in all actions, sometimes fawning, sometimes frowning, but whether by your fortune, or cowardice, or both, you are now at their mercy, whose overthrow you assured yourself of, and which you more desired than all territories of the earth, but our God which never suffereth his servants to perish, hath mightily defended us, it is not your mighty powers can daunt the hearts of Christians, whose God is their guide: neither regard we them at all as a matter of any trust, your eyes can witness, who having an Army able as you thought to have vanquished all Christendom, is by a handful to your multitudes surprised. Yet dismay not my Lord, a Maiden is your jailor who will use you more honourably than you can imagine, or your hard threats deserveth. The Prince which saw the beauty of the Princess, whom he so earnestly upon reports had desired, was astonished greatly, holding the fame that was bruited, to be nothing to her worthiness, therefore accusing himself of great impiety, that had borne Arms against the only Paragon of the earth, and not by courtesy have continued his love begun, ashamed of himself, he saith.  
Renowned Lady, Fortune's darling, & Beauties chief pride, though mishap hath made me of a Prince and heir to the mightiest Potentate of the earth, a captive, and that by thy champion I am dishonoured, and my power vanquished, crosses which may cause the stoutest that ever lived, to cry out on Fortune, & to curse the Destinies, yet am I comforted in the sweetness of your words, which disdaineth to use the utmost cruelty you might, or take his life that had vowed to use you with more extremes, then if by the greatest torments I could have afflicted you withal, I had caused you die many thousand deaths, if it were possible so many could ●e incident to one body. Had I prevailed of thy courtesy famous Princess, I cannot say what I would, but vow unto thee by the honour of my father's Crown, while I breath to remain a true liegeman unto thee virtuous Nutania, whose courtesy hath subdued my choler, and put my oppressed heart from a million of cares wherewith it was oppressed. My Lord quoth the Princess, your Lordship is merrily disposed, indeed women are gods children, won with a toy, such fools they are, yet my Lord, I would you did know, how little I esteem the flattery of men, of what estate soever, they would spend their frivolous speech elsewhere: for your Lordship, though you please to jest, I thank God you have such cause so to do, whom I praise for the victory received, and next his duty, my servant for his pains employed for our safety. And with these words, she gave him so gracious a look, as well might the standers by see it was not feigned, but that her speech spoken in his praise, proceeded of the inward motions of the heart, which of the captive Prince was not unperceived, which caused him to reply thus.  
Madame, for avoiding of that odious sin of flattery, which my heart hath ever contemned, I dare not say what I would, yet seeing the destinies are so pleased to yield me a prisoner to my enemy, I reckon my unhappiness the less, which have so gracious a Lady for my keeper, of whom, expecting no better than death, I am by your comfort quite deprived of that fear. And for this noble Gentleman, how Fortune and the Fates hath favoured him in this victory, wherein I am so dishonoured, every man cannot conceive. But were the honour thereof a million more, yet not to be weighed in the balance where your Grace doth counterpoise the same, which is more to be esteemed then the world's good: how you hold him in regard I know not, but if an enemy's praise may any way honour him, I say; and with my blood will avouch, that for his valour, none liveth on the confines of the earth his equal; wherefore madame, boast you of his worthiness which is peerless, and worthy for all perfections, to be honoured of the mightiest Monarch that liveth.  
Thanks my Lord, quoth the Princess, for your good opinion of my servant, I doubt not but he will say as much for you, when opportunity shall serve, who I assure you, is as courteous, as otherwise honourably endued. While they were thus pleasantly discoursing, word was brought the King, that Theophilus Prince of Thessaly, who by the outrage of a cruel storm, had suffered shipwreck, was found on a raft, driven a shore upon the farthest parts of his confines: where being unknown to any his subjects, but by his own report, was by the Gentlemen of his country entreated, as beseemed his estate: and accompanied with a princely train, was within half a days journey of the Court. The sudden report whereof, broke their talk, the King commanding his train presently to be ready horsed to accompany him, who with diligence failed not to obey his command: and so orderly marching through the City, they ride easily paced, until they meet the stranger King, between whom great courtesy was used. The King gave thanks and loving countenance to the Gentlemen, who had to their great cost so honoured him, by entertaining this stranger, whereby his country was made famous. Thus with diverse discourses they passed the time till they came to the Court, where a stately lodging was purveyed for him, and Officers appointed to attend his person, as royally as if he had been in his own Palace, where solacing with the King and his Nobles, we leave him, to return unto Pheander the Maiden Knight, whose entrails frying with the scorching flames of his mistress beauty, had so much changed his colour, and impaired his strength, that enforced by great grief and extremity of his love, he withdrew him to his chamber, where casting himself on his bed with a million of careful thoughts, eftsoons, determining to seek the Prince's favour. And then by contrary motions, fearing the success of his suit, carrying the report of no better than a Merchant, which might give cause of great dislike, and disparaged his suit, he saith, miserable Dionicus, whom the Fates continually causeth by their hard hap daily to complain, cursing the time of thy nativity, and the stars which governed thine aspects, which neither time or place can remedy, faint hearted wretch, that seeking thy own overthrow, increaseth thy grief by consealing the cause. Leftes not thou thy Princely father, to come hither, where thou mightest enjoy the presence of thy beloved mistress, and in doing her service, to acquaint her with thy love? and coward like shamest thou to let her know thy zeal, whose courtesy is without compare, and every way showeth in what regard she holdeth thee, that hath procured her liberty in adventuring thy life? a pleasure that of a thankful mind can never be forgotten. What knowest thou whether her love be as much to thee, whom womanly modesty denieth to reveal, else mightst thou happily know it? No, no, fondling, thy fortune is not so happy, which ever hath lived in unhappiness, yet despair not, nor like a wretch die in thy Cabenet, Rouse thee, and consider what thou art, give not over thy desires to miserable death, without acquainting her with thy love: spare to speak, and spare to speed, A Proverb not so old as true, which if thou follow, will either give thee comfort by her courteous grant, or by denial, hasten thy death, by which thou shalt be freed from these torments; enjoying life, and living, enjoy thy sweet delight, or by death, end● these torments. In this resolution, having banished despair, arming himself with hope of good success, stretching his weak limbs, he hasteneth to the Presence, whose absence had been noted of most Courtiers attendant there, but especially of the Princess, who (albeit) found the company unfurnished, wanting his company, yet durst not inquire of him, doubting the suspicion of jealous eyes: But Fortune who had so long spurned at him with her foot, gave him this opportunity to raise him, whom▪ she had like to have overthrown, chancing to look out of a window which opened into a Park belonging to the Court, he espied the Princess, pleasantly passing the time with her Train of Ladies, which opportunity he was not willing to lose, but with all such speed as his fainting legs could make, revived by the sight of his sweet chase, with all sails spread, in short time he recovered his wished desire, who was no sooner of the Princess seen, his humble duty done, and she having requited the same, giving him the time of the day, with a most pleasant and friendly countenance, she challenged him of negligence, whom she had not seen in two or three days: and leading him politicly, pretending matter of importance, to impart unto him, from the company, she brought him near the side of a fair Copes, which so overshadowed them, that the Sun beams could not offend them, where they might both boldly say whatsoever it pleased them, without being heard or seen of any, which might interrupt them, which caused her take opportunity to discuss with him thus. Servant quoth she, I pray thee say, of the duty thou hast vowed thy mistress, and by those sweet thoughts which are best pleasing unto thee, what is the Lady to whom thy love is dedicated? for love doubtless thou dost, thy countenance bewrayeth it, which I have noted, with more regard than becometh a maiden: yet of care to thee, whose health I tender, for thy courtesy & good service done, which I would requite in the best manner I might; and for thy looks showeth thy heart craveth to be pitied of thy Lady, let me know her, who may chance stand thee in some steed, for women may prevail much one with an other. The Knight wrapped into a heaven of joys, hearing the goddess of his devotion, with such favour and kindness to use him, with a blushing countenance standing at the bar, before her, whose sentence pronounced, was either life or death, he saith: Honourable and gracious mistress, give me leave so to call your highness, since you have dained a captive the title of your servant, and pardon my presumption, answering your demand; that I love I cannot deny, which argueth your skill in physic great (whom) my tongue is restrained to reveal: but if your highness could judge whose love I most adore, and long have, and judging, ease me, I should have cause to say, no physic proferer on the earth whatsoever, might compare with my gracious mistress for skill; I dare say no more, fearing to offend. The Princess all this time gazed on the perfection of her servant, as deeply enamoured on his perfection, as the Knight inueagled with hers, for her eye made a survey of his excellent feature, which she found more perfect, by how much the more she had bend her liking to love him. Thus love which had assailed both their hearts, endued them with such a sympathy of joy, beholding themselves all alone, that with over much joy they were stricken mute, so that how much soever their hearts desired, to let each other know their loves, they could not reveal the same. In this heaven of happy content they had not long been, Guenelia a Lady, that attended the Princes, brought her word, the King her father, with the King of Thessaly, was coming into the Park, which place they had chosen to recreate themselves: Where passing on by fair Paris, they diligently listen to the sweet records of the pretty birds, who skipping from tree to tree, gave as well the content beholding it, as the ear pleasure in their notes, great was the delight they received, viewing the beauty of the place, which for pleasant walks, sweet groves, and fruitful trees of all sorts, was matchless, into which many pleasant brooks had recourse: on the banks of which, finding the place beautified with Nature's gifts, they sat them down earnestly beholding the pleasure of the fishes, how prettily they chased one the other, with many a pleasant conceived toy, which they noted, censuring of each several action, as they thought best to increase their mirth. When some time was spent on this pleasant manner, Philarcus King of Thrace, finding himself all alone with the King of Thessaly, having never questioned of him his unhappy fortune, began with him thus.  
Let it not be displeasing unto thee famous King, that I intrude myself so far into thy familiarity, to require the cause of your grace's travail, through which your life was so dangered, if you vouchsafe me this favour, you shall command a matter of more import, so please it you, at my hands.  
The Thessalian King, attending this un 〈…〉 question, was driven into such 〈…〉 thoughts, that his colour showed better his discontent to recount it, than his tongue ableness to answer the king's demand, how willing so ever he was to satisfy him, yet after some pause taken, he saith:  
Right courteous, and mirror of the world for Nobility, though nothing can be more displeasing to my grieved heart, then recounting my adverse fortune, yet that your Grace shall not find any ingratitude in me, at whose hands I have received such honourable entertainment, attend me.  
It is not many years since Mantonna my father deceised, who left me (unhappy I) his successor to inherit the crown, which I did not long enjoy, before Donatia King of Egypt, required of me my sister in marriage; who being beautiful, and in the flourishing time of her years, having not yet attained to the full of fifteen, young enough to be bestowed, yet of that wisdom, that I referred the choice of her love to her own liking, induced▪ thereunto by the many evils happening by such made marriages, where the children are forced by the covetous desires of their parents, to join wealth to wealth, others for great patrimonies; all for lucre, few or none for love. But whether the beauty of my sister Phedera (for so was she called) or the desire of her dowry, which was great, or either of them, or both, I cannot say, ●ut my sister being made acquainted with his suit, I craved her answer, for which his Ambassadors attended in my Court, with the best entertainment I could give, whom my sister Phedera with her own mouth answered (woe is me) unhappy the tongue that pleaded denial to his suit, but most of all, unhappy the hour when first of all he determined to crave her at my hands, in whose power it was not to grant: no sooner arrived his Nobles at the Court, and he scarcely had received the sum of her answer, but as one bereft of all honour, reason, and government, he vowed revenge on me and my country. And levying a mighty power both of horse and foot, assailed me in mine own territories, whom by the mighty power of the Almighty, I expelled my land, to their great dishonour, and no small loss to my subjects: yet how great soever his overthrow was, (an honourable mind I must say) were the cause just, he ordained a mighty power by seas, whereof being by my espyalles advertised of the time as near as they could guess they would be ready, with a power well shipped and furnished, I met him near his own Confines, where a mortal fight was begun, and most valiantly continued, neither side giving any show of fainting. But alas, too soon cometh that grief which meiteth my heart into thousands of tears, to recount the Admiral of mine own Squadron, being sunk, and two others forced by the cunning hand of their Gunners, to lie by the Lée, the rest fainted: which being perceived of the enemy, they boarded, and by hundreds entered my ships and galleys, who were valiantly repulsed. But men can do no more than God will give them leave, so long they continued the fight, that the scupars gushed blood, as they had often with the water delivered by the Pomp. And here lay one maimed, and there a number slain. This pitiful stratagem, when my heart with heaviness beheld, being so hardly assailed, myself, after that I was cleared from the Fleet, the wind favouring me with a happy gale, and my ship being good of sail, I forsook the fight, in hope to have recovered in my own Country, and by a new supply, have given him welcome thither. But my hopes herein deceived, a boisterous storm growing, the sea who is merciless, arose in extremity, swelling with such outrage, that my weak bark no longer able to endure her cruelty, was put against our wills on thy coast, my Pilot unacquainted with the same, and a hoary mist over spreading the land, suddenly the ship stuck, being near the shore, which drove us to great terror. To remedy the which, the Mariners did their best, but in vain strive they that labour against his will that commandeth all. (What should I say) the outrage of the storm was such, as forced the ship upon the Lée shore, which gave us all cause to remember our maker, and with hearty prayer to crave his assistance: but our comfort, was comfortless, our ship split, and we all driven to make what shift we might, myself happening on the main yard, after that I had been grievously beaten at sea, the whole night was driven a shore on your Confines, I never heard of any other that were saved. With this the tears restrained his speech, that he could not speak, which moved the King to more pity of his estate, and friendly embracing him, he said; No more my Lord at this time, I am sorry that I have given you such cause of grief, thus by recounting so lamentable a state, renew your passed griefs. But comfort good King, when tides be at the lowest, they spring again. If the Egyptian King be so extreme, reason with courtesy will not content him, the cause being no other, but to force the love of a woman unto him, of which, perhaps he were better be without: On the word of a King, and by my honour I swear, I will not leave you, until I see you settled in your kingdom. Thus the King whom sorrow had overburdened, was by the comfort of this noble King his host, recomforted, whose whole study was now in preparing of an Army to aid him, to which care we leave them.  
Nutania, whose restless passions neither time nor place could alter, burning in these remediless thoughts, considering the penance her loving heart was like to endure, she fell into this humour.  
Nutania, how have the Fates ordained to make thee unhappy? that thou being delivered from an oppressing enemy, than steps in love to begin a new Tragedy. Thou seest her fawn is but flattery, then seek to eschew them, enter not too far in the ford, least minding but to wet thy shoe, thou plunge over head and ears. Thy years albeit not many, with the examples of others, whom then hast read, may learn thee to be wise: if thy fancy be fixed on such vanity as may breed thy sorrow, expel it as thou mayst, suffer not love to harbour in thy heart, for harboured, he commonly pleads possession; and once possessed, neither force, nor entreaty may remoone him, so ambitious a tyrant is he, that void of pity, against law and all hostility he holdeth what he list. Alas Nutania, if thy enemy be such what availeth thee; thou mayst wish to be freed from his tyranny, but canst never avoid it, so imperious is he, yet not manly, but as a Coward, making the breach where the wall is weakest: poor women is the mark, whereat most commonly he aimeth, who being by nature pitiful, are easy to believe, and by ●oo light credit, are taken by them they best like of. Thus (poor wench) dost thou nothing but heave feathers against the wind, which return into thine own eyes: thy speeches uttered in loves dishonour, will be challenged, and like a traitorous Rebel to his Deity shalt thou be convicted, arraigned and condemned, for depraving his Godhead. If it be death (fondling) to speak against the majesty of a Prince, what is it to contemn the powers above? The best remedy thou hast is reconciliation, wherewith the Gods are pleased; and heartily sorrowing for thy miss, yield thyself vanquished, & yielding, seek by favour, to attain the end of thy desires. Thy love is matchless, and doubtless honourable, his countenance showeth the true badge of Nobility, and his valour and bounty do answer what his other perfections promise: I have often heard it spoken, that women's helps in extremity have been great; if that be true proof Nutania, call thy wits together, and so end thy torments, by enjoying thy hearts content, so much discontent by yielding to the same.  
Thus resolved, without longer stay she called unto her Guenela, her chief attendant, who from her infancy had been brought up with her: In this Guenela, she conceived her greatest hope, unto whom she said: Guenela, since I had reason to discern good from evil, thou knowest how I have tendered thee, and how willing I would be to seek thy preferment: make trial when thou please, so shalt thou be assured of that, which justly thou mayst hold in suspense. But leaving these conjuring words, I must Guenela, commit unto thy secrets, a matter of import, whereon my honour and reputation dependeth: for I tell thee Guenela, I have made choice of thee amongst, all those which I may command, as of her I love, and have best cause so to do, having had such society, else should I rather choose to die ten thousand deaths, then reveal it.  
Guenela, which had her whole hope of good from the Princess, hearing her speeches, with tears standing in her eyes, proceeding of joy, for the honour done her by her Lady, protested unto her by heavens maker, and what else he framed, to be secret in her determinations, and do her best endeavour to accomplish whatsoever she commanded. The Princess taking her word for currant, in whom she never found deceit, said; Guenela, that it is incident to all creatures in their kind to love, I know thy wits be not so simple, but thou canst conceive, and he that frameth us, directeth our like as best pleaseth him, be it prince or beggar, from the highest to the simplest, and he my Guenela, hath linked my liking to a most brave toward Gentleman (on whom I think) if affection which is blind, deceive me not, is worthy to be mated with the greatest in degree on the earth. To keep thee with frivolous speech, is no time now, having other matter enough to discourse: therefore that thou mayest know him to whom my love is united, Pheander the new adopted Knight is he, (Pheander) famous for his valour, renowned for his bounty, and admired for courtesy, he, he, Guenela, is the joy of my heart, (and my hearts sole delight) without whom I cannot live, no, I will not live, I, neither may I live, such is the service my heart hath vowed in love unto him: therefore if thou love me as thou hast professed, by thy industry seek to ●aue my life, which cannot but perish not obtaining my desires.  
Guenela, listening to her discourse, willing to become second in this Comedy, had her brains beating already in search of the charge committed unto her, yet would she not answer any thing suddenly, considering how displeasing speeches spoken out of time, be unto lovers corrosives: yet cheering the Princess, she requested until the next morning, respite for answer, which the Princess granted, affying greatly in her which was wise and well demeaned, many ways (sometime doubtful) sometime pleasing, sifted her senses to the proof, whom to her study we leave.  
The Maiden Knight, whose extremes were far more (if more might be) after his abrupt parting with his mistress, that he grew so melancholy, as nothing were it vyandes to relieve his weak corpse, neither the daintiness of pleasing sweet Music wherewith his friends presented him, might any way delight him, so that in outrageous manner, he exclaimed on his misfortune, cursing the tidings bringer of the King's repair to the Park, and his tongue for not revealing his grief, his Physician so ready to hear, that despairing of his hope to enjoy her, he was likely to mischief himself: yet reason affirming, that the learnedest Physician could not discover the disease of his Patient, without he show it, how near soever he guess. Entering further in consideration of her favourable speeches, shaking off fear, like a hardy soldier, he determined in writing to let her know his love, since he had no hope to meet her again at the like advantage. Therefore like the condemned, hoping of pardon, liveth the Knight, yet desirous to be resolved, either of comfort or despair, he calleth for Pen and Ink, and write thus. To willingly vouchsafe him as partner of her best fortunes, yet making a kind denial, she said; Sir, though I could willingly do you more service, than modesty will I acquaint you with, it is not the part of our Country Gentlemen, to make beasts of Gentlewomen, having Pages fit for the purpose: if I refuse your request, attribute it to no discourtesy in me, which am very loath to offend her highness, not knowing whether the sentence of your paper may discontent her or no. That many messengers have incurred displeasure, yea and loss of life as the cause hath deserved, I hope it is not unknown unto you, yet hath the harmless messenger known as little what he carried, as I desirous to know of you.  
Sweet Guenela, quoth the Knight, that it is wisdom to beware by others harms, I deny not, yet is it discourtesy to deny the request of a Gentleman, which have ever showed myself a dutiful servant to his highness, and honouring him, can I frame my heart to prejudice that Lady of incomparable virtue? No, no, heavens never permit me life, to offend her in the least sort. Therefore doubt no such matter, for on the word of a Gentleman, my life shall be offered and freely given, to excuse thy friendship, wherein I am so greatly pleasured by you. Guenela, noting by the often changing colour in telling his tale, his heart was not his own, but had some more business in hand then he would impart, loath to offend his patience by her denial, said; Sir, persuading myself of your loyalty, I will for this time become your Ambassador, although it should impair my credit with her Exellence, whose favour I hold as dear as my life, and that you shall assure yourself of my trustiness herein, so please it you to meet me in this place to morrow, by that time the Sun's power shall have drawn the dew from off the earth, I shall return you answer as you desire.  
Thanks good Guenela, for thy courtesy, assure you I will not die in thy debt, if ever Pheander may requite it by any industry. In the mean time quoth he, favour me so highly as wear this for my sake, and pulling off a Diamond of great prize gave it her, which she was loath to accept, yet giving thanks for his courtesy, she said:  
Sir, would you did understand, I prize not my pains, that you should reward me with hire, or do you good in hope of benefit▪ or as it is unfitting a gentle woman to take gifts bestowed in such manner, so is it discourtesy and no part of a woman like condition, to refuse the gift of a friend: therefore accept my thanks, till I may better deserve it. Thus time passing away, Guenela taking her leave, departed towards the Princess, and the Knight to his lodging, where, how many sundry thoughts assailed him, I leave to them, that have endured the like.  
Guenela, come to the Princess presence, by her pleasant gesture was of the Princess perceived, who was jealous of her being acquainted with her malady, who calling her to her bed side, she inquired where she had spent the time so long from her, knowing that all her Attendants were cumbersome unto her, but only Guenela, with whom she might pass the time in discoursing her love.  
Madame, duty commands me, answer your demand, yet having been to search some dainty that might yield delight to your weak stomach, and cause better digesture, by chance prying in the guard in for such things, I was encountered by the best skilled in the dominions of Thrace who gave me a receipt, which I judge by my simple skill, will give your Majesty great ease; yet doth the Physician doubt whether your stomach will digest it. This gracious Lady▪ quoth Guenela, hath been the cause of my absence, and no other. (Alas good wench) how am I beholding to thee, that caring to recover my strength, searchest the depth of thy skill, but Guenela in vain seekest thou her health, whom no physician with all his herbs, drugs, & simples, balms, emplasters, or what Art may provide, can remedy, only God the great commander must by his grace bring my desires to end, or by death, end my days of life.  
What Madam, ever in this tune? once alter these discords which maketh your music jar, & sing the belief with a cheerful voice, so may your mind be a little eased, and the receipt I have to minister, work with the more effect: I speak this Madam, of experience, for every skilful Physician will prepare the body of his Patient, before he minister. Therefore Madam, if you will shake off this melancholy, you shall have a taste of what I promise, if not, your grace must pardon me, it were great pity so precious a thing should be cast away.  
Well Guenela, quoth the Princess, thou art disposed to cross me with thy words, which doth but increase my disease, yielding small comfort: therefore leaving those jests, say me my good wench, if thou have aught will do me good? (if not) use me no more thus unkindly, least overcome with the extreme of my grief, I chance to say with my tongue▪ what my heart will repent, or use my hands with such rigour, as becometh not a maiden.  
The Gentlewoman seeing the wind blow so warm, fearing as much as was promised, seeing the Princess impatience such, thought not good to tempt her above her strength, for women being by nature warm, with a little fuel will be made hot, past reason: wherefore, making a preamble to her discourse, like an eloquent Orator began thus.  
(Pheander) with that word, making a long pause, to note the Princess countenance, on the sudden naming her beloved, was interrupted thus; Pheander? Guenela? what frantic humour causeth thee to name him in this manner, with whom thou hadst never anything to say? Madam quoth Guenela, attend the rest, before you either condemn me, or commend me. Then proceed quoth the Princess.  
This Pheander, of whom my tale is before your Exellence to be told, is that Knight who of your majesty is called the Maiden Knight, this Knight as it is told me, loveth a Lady, but whom I cannot declare, before I know: but as it is told me by his dear friend which knoweth the secrets of his heart, so tormented is he in his passions, that the night naturally made for rest, (restless) he consumeth in great discontent, (the day) wherein all creatures delight, is unto him loathsome, so that through watching, and refusing his diet, with other cares which cloyeth his stomach, his lovely face is altered from the sanguine, unto the yellow coloured saffron, (yea Madam) these mine eyes are witnesses of it, who this day saw him pass into the Court, so feeble, that his weak legs might hardly endure the weight of his body. No more of this my sweet Guenela, lest thy tongue busied too long on this Tragedy, overcome with the extremity of my grief, I ●e enforced to seek an end of my torments by dispatching my own life. Oh Guenela, is this thy comfortable confection? Is this the relief thou preachest off, which would yield me such quiet of mind? Unhappy Lady, why should I live to see another enjoy my Love? Is not Pheander my servant? have not I made choice of him? and shall another no way worthy to enjoy him, have that interest which might delight the Goddesses? Peace Nutania, whither romest thou? let reason subdue rage, let not every one know thy love to Pheander, but conceal it as thou mayst, and seek some secret devise to give thy heart ease, by death which is thy best remedy: yet would I live to become a succour for the well deserving Knight, and gain his hearts desire for him if I might. Cruel were that ●ame & not worthy to enjoy the simplest groom, which causeless for love, consumeth such a man in all perfections and lineaments of body, as Pheander, without yielding him love. But hearken Guenela, that thou mayst in time when my body shall be entombed among the dead, report unto my Love, (and loving Knight) how dear I held his love, as my countenance often showed, (though he) careless of loves toys never regarded it, & for he shall well know at my last end how I wish his welfare, do but this for me, by his friend to learn the Lady's name whom the Knight is so enthralled This is all the service that I will ever command thee, that knowing her, I may become an intercessor for him, whom my heart more desireth than all the world's possessions: with this, tears which trickled down from her eyes, restrained her tongue. In which sorrowful passion, her maiden became a partner, and grieved for her folly, committing so heinous a fault in procuring the same; she excused in this manner.  
Most gacious Princess, how much I grieve to see your discomfort, I can not say, but hope your Grace will pardon me, which have been more bold, (presuming on your favour) then beseemeth me, neither what I have done (gracious Lady) was of any intent to offend you, but to acquit myself of blame, in a matter which I have of courtesy undertaken, as the sequel shall manifest, if it shall please your Ladyship to peruse this letter, which will (no doubt) resolve you, without further pains to me, or trouble to your Grace, what she is that is best beloved of the Maiden Knight on the earth. This letter I received at his hands, who hearing of your disquiet, desirous (as it should seem) to acknowledge his duty to you, conjured me by many fair words, and proffrrs of good, to deliver it unto your hands; which albeit for modesty I did long refuse, thrusting that from me with my finger, which I would willingly have drawn to me with all my force: in the end I consented, & the rather for your ladyships quiet, which as I suppose, will bid it welcome for the masters sake; who if my judgement in the Planet Venus deceive me not, will prove shortly a conjunction, or I'll never trust my skill again; for Venus being in the sign Leo, hath domination over both houses, viz. he and she, or he and you.  
The Princess at her last shift, when she heard Guenelas tale, void of all hope to enjoy her beloved Pheander, after she had a while paused, as one at length awaked from her memento, as from a sleep, she saith; Now trust me wench, thou hast cunningly gone about the bush, and hast daintily sought to enter into my deepest secrets, yet how cunningly so ever you have dealt, there may be a quilitie to deceive both thee and him: but I pray thee Guenela, tell me what speeches used the Maiden Knight at the delivery thereof, tell me sweet girl in friendship.  
The despairing Knight (good Madam) for so I must call him, how ever his valour shows itself in field, as no doubt worthily; so saith report: yet in love I see his dastardness, who loveth, yet dare not reveal the sum of his desires, but must commit it to a tell-tale paper; languishing to the death, wanting his delight, and prolonging his sorrows by silence, his looks bewraying more than he can utter: for be it said, he that had seen not long since his beauty and gallant grace, the ability of his body, and noted every particular lineament, at this time with the debility thereof, should see a metamorphosis, which might move the most hardest heart to pity; the cause to me unknown, but suspected. The assurance I doubt not but your Grace will soon vndestand, if you vouchsafe to tear the seal and peruse the contents.  
The Princess which thought every minute a year till she had knowledge of the Knight's mind, put her maiden from her prattle with a feigned message, when being all alone, with a number of sorrowful sighs for the Knight's perplexity, she read, and many times read those lines, which gave her first comfort of enjoying her hearts content: how welcome they were unto her, it may better be imagined than explained; whose head was wholly busied in answering the same, for which the thought it not unfit to use the help of Guenela; wherefore resting from her former studies, we leave her contemplating on her love, till Guenela her return; who seeing her Lady's callour somewhat revived, began to smile. Madam (quoth she) though I made a fault in detaining so long the physic that I promised you, yet I hope your Majesty will pardon that offence, considering the good it doth in working; how you digest it I know not, but he that hath least skill in judging complexions, will say your marriage is mended by twenty in the hundred; if you recover but so much of your loss every two days, there are few (in one week) will believe you have been sick. Well wanton, well (answered the Princess) you have been prettily disposed to play your part, and take your pastime in beholding the folly of both our loves, which I am the more willing to forget, in that thou hast so rightly judged of both our griefs. But leaving jest, I pray thee say my sweet Guenela, what said my servant when he delivered these letters unto thee? Madame, to say truth; nothing touching his love; but imported with such earnestness; for the presenting them unto your hands, as might have made many proud to do so charitable a dée●e, craving it with speech so pitiful, and looks so ruthful: for mine own part, my heart imagining by your affection, that the Gods which caused your grief, had fettered him, and well knowing where love is united, the ones weal is the others good; though I were hardly won to the same, I undertook the hazard of your good will, promising to return to him an answer thereof, wherein I shall break promise, without you grant your consent.  
Oh Guenela, doubts thou of my consent for answering of his kind letters, which have endured so many nights of unrest, and careful days for his sake? No, heavens never grant me good in this world, if I seek not his content, & that with so good love and affection, as he offereth his love and service to me, unkind were I else, that loving am beloved, should suffer my dearest love to languish, who may remedy it. Therefore Guenela, as thou hast played the Advocate, so make I thee my principal and chief Secretary: peruse these lines, and in right consider if that his grief deserve not to be pitied, then let me see thy skill in inditing, to the which thou shalt have my help. Delay the time no longer, hunger (my Wench) is sharp sauce (as those say which have good stomachs) and I measuring his desires by mine own, imagine that meat cannot be more pleasing to the hungry, than the unexpected tidings of consent, from his new acknowledged love. Soft fire, Madam, quoth Guenela, makes the sweetest Malt, say our housewives: your Ladyship is far wide: what? no sooner at the style, but over haste makes waste; look before you leap, lest a block unthought of, chance to break your shins. What if these letters impart his love, how are you assured thereof? Men are subtle, and can cast many colours to deceive women; all is not gold that glistereth, nor all sugar that hath a sweet taste; under the gréenest grass lurketh the poisoned Adder; the Crocodile sheddeth most tears, when he seeketh most to deceive: try ere you trust, Madam, repentance comes too late; therefore howsoever you affect him, conceal it: Lightly won, is as lightly lost. The Labourer that gaineth his money by hard labour, is more chary in parting therewith, than the purloining thief, or the riotous youth, which by subtle practices draweth all he can from his kind parents, to maintain his inordinate expenses. Let him bite on the bridle a while, yet gently line his curb, that he gall: not a little thing pleaseth a child, and a good countenance is worth gold, to him that regardeth it, as he professeth. Weigh your own estate, which are heir to this most famous crown of Thrace, with the baseness of his calling, which was no better than a Merchant: consider what a corrosive this love of yours would be to your honourable father, should he know it, and how your Nobles would stomach him for his birth, grieving to live in obedience to one so far their inferior. The envious regard not what virtues he is possessed with, which I must needs say, deserve to be accounted: the man gaining honour by virtue and valour, is more worthy to govern the State then the Noble, which ignobleth his house by his bad demeanour. How many such there be in this Court I grieve to see, who living licentiously, abuse themselves in such odious manner, that if your Ladyship heard the pitiful complaints of the Commons, crying out on the Prince for justice against them, and how by favour of their friends, ruling both the King and the State, they are suborned, cleared of the crime, and the poor Complainant, returned with a check able to break the heart of a simple man: abuses which may be more lamented, then easily remedied.  
But touching the Maiden Knight, from whom I have digressed, I speak not any thing to disparaged his love, nor to draw your liking from the Knight, but wish you temper your affection, in such sort, that you may long enjoy it with content to you both, and so govern your Grace's looks and countenances, that the lightness of the one, nor the liberal bestowing of the other, give jealous heads any cause of suspicion. For Princes be great marks, and have many eyes beholding them, and once perceived, what peril it may procure to either part, your wisdom can conceive. Thus in duty have I spoken, and delivered a gross advise, which I refer to your Grace's better consideration. Well hast thou said, my Guenela, quoth the Princess, but what availeth counsel to a desperate mind, no more than he that seeking to quench the flame, poureth Oil to it, I find thy love so great towards me, that I cannot requite it, which with such good regard balanceth each peril incident to both our states, if thou canst as well devise how we may enjoy our delight, without which we perplexed, cannot long endure, what is it that Nutania shall ever enjoy, but Guenela shall command? Then as thou tenderest my good, bethink thee of some remedy, for my love to him is such, as nothing may extinquish. Say my sweet Guenela, shall I by writing answer his Letters, or no: In this I will be ruled by thee, how gladly soever I wish his comfort, in whom, of all earthly creatures, consisteth my most comfort. Experience is the best wisdom quoth Guenela, who would ever have believed loves power to be of such effect, how imperious soever he seemed, had they not seen and heard what I do? through which I am compelled to recant my heresy, and say Love is a God, or how is it possible he could command Princes. But to your Grace's request, whereas you have referred the answer of Pheander's Letters to me, I was never so void of reason, nor so desirous to be counsellor to your excellence, to take so great a matter upon me, yet shall I (so please it you to hear me) deliver my simple opinion, as I would do myself in the like action. The old wives say, they that feed with the devil must have a long spoon; and they that go about to master Love had need of many good precepts: dissuade your Grace I will not to forget it, for▪ I see it is vain, neither would I wish you to answer by writing; for a paper is soon lost, and lost, to whose finding it shall come, 'tis uncertain; as soon to some envious enemy, as a well-willer; in which some word simply meant of you, or me, may be construed by them at their pleasure, whereby your name may be brought in question; and a slander raised, is not so easily suppressed; writing is a specialty, whereof the subtle Lawyer takes no small advantage: to avoid all which casualties, this may you do; pretend some matter of conference with him, and appoint the time when he shall attend your pleasure, at your lodging, coming secretly unto you, and at such time as the King your father shall be employed in serious affairs, so may you use your speech at your pleasure; this would Guenela do, your Grace may use your discretion.  
I like thy devise well (good wench) and give thee many thanks (quoth the Princess) therefore fail not to meet him for thy promise, what else I refer to thy best indgement. Now in faith Madam (quoth Guenela) you have made a good choice for a solliciter, but take me as I am, this is the first suit that ever I was retained for nor I doubt not (if I speed well now) of many elpantes. As they were thus pleasant between themselves, they heard a trumpet sound to horse, which caused the Princess to send her Page to inquire the cause, who returned her answer, that the king with his train, were setting forward to hunt a wild boar, which his Forester had roused: this news gave them cause of joy, hoping that Fortune favoured them with a happy time, which they were both loath to omit, doubting the like opportunity; the Princess especially, who could not be quieted in mind, until she heard her Knight answer for himself; wherefore a Page was presently commanded to search for the Knight, willing him with such convenient speed as he could, to meet Guenela in the garden; the Page used such diligence, the soon he was brought unto the knights presence, whom he found solitary (as a holy father) at his Orisons, whom the Page awaked with his joyful message, which was welcome unto him, albeit doubtful whether of weal or woe, either to augment his sorrows, or utterly to extinguish them. The sudden hearing of which, caused him to pause a while, when having determined, courteously returned answer to the Gentlewoman, that he would attend her, he rewarded the Page so bountifully, as he had cause to boast him of his well employed service. Guenela having received his answer by the Page, advertised the Princess thereof, who commanded her to haste, lest she gave the Knight cause of discontent by her long stay: but for all her speed Pheander was long there before, attending her coming; who was no sooner of him perceived to enter the place, but his heart presaging some good, was more delighted thereat, than all the motions that could be imagined, after his courteous salutations done, thus said:  
Sweet Guenela, I know not what to imagine of thy sudden message, yet willing to be resolved, as one that by thy answer expecteth his doom either of life or death, I attend thy pleasure: say therefore, sweet Lady, what faith the Princess to my letters? with whom Guenela purposed to be something pleasant, & not to cloy his stomach with such pleasant confections, that he should surfeit therewith, and framing a countenance to her speech, she said:  
Sir Knight, of all the Gentlemen in the Court of Thrace, my good opinion was such of you, that on your word, I durst have hazarded my greatest credit, which expectation thou hast far deceived: and therefore not worthy to be accounted among such honourable men at Arms, which take their principal honour, holding their word with Gentlewomen. At the delivery of which speech, he that had took regard to the knights countenance, might have thought him past physics recure: And withal, standing so mute, it verily persuaded Guenela, that he was ready to deliver his interest of life, which made her alter her rough words, and with a smother method new file them; doubting that her Comedy begun in mirth, should prove a Tragedy, to the great grief of the whole Country, which generally honoured him. Wherefore taking him by the hand, she said; Sir Knight, I am sorry I have charged you so far, what cause soever I had, but 'tis womanlike to be slain with words, and no fit passion for a man of your profession. That you may comfort yourself, I first pardon the offence against me committed, (and enjoin you) as you tender your credit with the Princess Nutania, that you fail not to repair at such convenient time as you best can, to her lodging; where if you hold your word, you will excuse your messenger.  
Oh Guenela, how have thy speeches tormented me, filling my entrails with such a confusion of comfortless thoughts, as have overcome my senees. Yet Guenela, if thou be courteous, or have any spark of gentility abide in thee, Say my good Lady, what countenance gave the Princess to my bashful paper? Vouchsafed she the reading of them? (Or how) to discomfort you good Knight, quoth Guenela, it were pity, being already at so low a datum, which pitieth me to behold. Comfort can I give none to thy desires but this, thy suit is love, as your Letters import, in which despair not, for thy mistress is a woman, though a Princess, and how pitiful our sex is, I will not boast, but wish thee not despair: If thy birth were as great as thy virtues, thou mightst board and bed, as good as the Princess Nutania, unto whom I will be a faithful solicitor. Mistake me not Pheander, I speak as a friend, and so leave thee, until thy coming to my Lady, which detract not, for time lost, is such a precious thing as can never be recalled. Before whom, when thou shalt come, plead thine own cause, and discover thine own grie. And so farewell.  
Pheander, which had some greater hope by Guenela, her last speeches, was so over joyed, that he could not bid her farewell: yet after his memento past, he saith, farewell the faithfullest friend in my distress, that ever I found. (Oh Guenela) happy mayst thou be in thy loves, and highly honoured amongst men, by whom my cares are thus comforted, (faithful Guenela) the worker of my hearts happy content, by whom past all hope, I am by thy faithfulness and truth in delivering my message, freed of so heavy a burden, as was likely to have torn my poor oppressed heart in a million of pieces. Thus uplawding Guenela, he had almost forgotten his word. Leaving further to descant on this plain song, return we to the Princess, who was advertised by her woman, what had passed between the Knight and her, not omitting his heavy looks, and pitiful speeches. And then again as glad to please the Princess, whom she was assured loved the Knight, letted not at large to set out his honours gained, his comeliness of person, bounty, and whatsoever the world admired in him, she highly advanced: to the great content of the Princess, who thought every minute a year until she saw him, whom she with hearty desire expected, (long looked for, comes at last.) And Nutania who at a casement waited diligently his coming, espied her beloved Knight, what joy it caused, let them judge, which better experience have made perfect in lovers delights. The Princess having the sight of her so long desired Knight, sent Guenelia to entertain him, and to bring him to her presence. The Princess studying to frame her countenance for his welcome, bethought herself of sundry means, eftsoons, doubting by her too pleasant and kind usage to be thought too forward in love: then, what discomfort her heavy looks might move to him, whom she most desired to please. In this quandary, fitting on a Pallet, leaning her head on her pillow, Guenela hath brought the Knight to her presence, who doing his duty, was by the Princess again saluted.  
Attending like the guilty condemned, his sentence from her mouth, which was to give him either life or death, the Knight thus at an nonplus, overcome with the beholding of the Princess excellent perfection, was by her the mirror of all honour and courtesy, removed out of his dumps, in this manner.  
Sir Pheander, whether I should chastise thy presumption in writing so boldly unto me (or no) I am not yet resolved, but before I acquainted my father therewith, I thought good to hear thee speak, for that I would not suddenly disgrace thee, whom I have so often graced: as well to hear thy intent committing so great a folly, as what thou canst say in excuse thereof. Princes are not to be jested with, nor to be attempted in such manner by their inferiors, and therefore thou hast highly erred in that thou hast done, and encurred the danger of our strictest laws, by which thou art already condemned, were thy fact known. The Knight standing at the bar, where Bewlie sat chief judge, was surprised with so many griefs, that he might hardly utter any word, yet revived by hope of those comfortable and sweet words pronounced by Guenela, he saith;  
Gracious Lady, that I have presumed far, I cannot but acknowledge, yet that I have encurred such punishment as your highness inferreth, I deny, unless death be the guerdon assigned the faithful; (for dutiful service) and entire affection, urged me to seek thy favour in love, without which I may not live: so deeply is thy virtuous perfections imprinted in my heart, which if I enjoy not, I desire no longer to breath. Therefore Madam, if thou disdain his love, that living, dieth continually for thee: do but say the word, and this blade so often imbrued in the blood of mine enemies, shall sacrifice his masters own true heart before thy face, that thy cruel self, (mayst witness to thyself) how faithfully thy servant hath loved thee.  
The Princess grieved to hear these speeches, moved with great ruth, could hardly forbear shedding of tears, yet modesty the ornament of womankind, caused her to feign a counterfeit show of displeasure to him, whose tears wrong drops of blood from her tender heart, yet that she might not too suddenly confess her hearts desire, nor give him cause of utter despair, she saith; Pheander, that thou mayst see, and seeing, report in all places where ever thou shalt become of women's pity, I grant thee pardon for thy fault, and with my pardon, thy life, which was wholly in me to dispose. For loving me as thy Prince, I hearty thank thee, but in seeking to obtain my love as thy wife, that have been denied to diverse and sundry Princes, in that thou errest: let each estate frame themselves in love to their equal, so shall they sooner obtain their desires, and their loves in more tranquillity be maintained. Thou knowest thy birth how base it is, and though for thy virtues it pleased my Princely father to advance thee, who cannot of his Princely nature, but reward the deserts of the well deserving. If for his good to thee, thou seek to rob him of his child, therein thou showest a very ungrateful mind, and layest open to the world thy base condition. Therefore persist to prosecute thy suit, let reason vanquish that brainsick humour which so afflicts thee; in doing which, thou shalt show thyself, to be thyself: For no greater conquest can be achieved, than conquering a man's own effects. Do this, and thou shalt find Nutania thy faithful and assured friend, who will be as careful to advance thee, as I have found thee ready to pleasure me.  
Alas good Madam, answered the Knight, I have often heard, the whole needs no physician, it is easier far to give counsel then to take it. The full gorged Churl little regardeth the starving creature at his gate, (but madame) could you conceive the least part of many thousand griefs that afflict me, you would pity me at least, though you yielded me no farther favour: If thy heart be not harder than the Adamant, (pity me) sweet Lady, and yield thy grace, to augment my life, or utterly deny me your favour for ever. I expect but your answer, for my resolution is no other than I have professed, (dastards fear to die) but the Noble mind preferreth death which endeth all sorrows, before a life to be continued with discontent. The Princess which was at her wits end as full of grief, as he of sorrow, turned her speeches from her matter, to question him of his Country, the manner of the Court, and state thereof, thinking so to be guild the time and put him off for that season. But so long dallied she, that she was forced in the end to confess her love to be no way inferior to his. Thus as I have said, demanding of the Knight many questions, she earnestly entreated him, to resolve her whether the Prince Dionicus, were such as the world reported him, who had name to be a Paragon, excelling in all actions required in a Noble man. The Prince hearing his name called in question by the Princess, on such a sudden, believed verily that she had some secret knowledge of him, which made him with blushing cheeks to say, what reports soever your Grace hath heard of that Prince Dionicus, I know not, a subject I was to his father, and aught to speak reverently of him, (yet what is truth) and not for affection or despite, to say other then I will with my blood avow. Wherefore Noble Lady, I will truly answer your demands.  
The Prince whose father was matchless, gaining the love of all men, with care and honour maintained the reputation of his Country, which by his careless son is blemished, who neglecting the duty of a child, without regard of father, crown, or kingdom, exiled himself, no man knows where, or whether he rest alive or no: since which time, the king his father, who loved him too dear (if fathers love may be too dear) hath likewise absented himself, and liveth in exile. The mother Queen, hath resigned her due to death, leaving (by loss of those honourable persons) their country without a head, and their state by subjects to be governed, whereby a ruin of the kingdom is like to ensue, all proceeding from the Prince. A miserable country is that (quoth the Princasse) & to be lamented; but more the loss of so noble a race, the father having been such, and the son as (report saith) so toward. But say (good Knight) quoth she, was there never cause supposed of their departures? nor did not the father through his harsh demeanour, for youth in these times take unkindly their father's unkindness: & age is froward, which frowardness might minister great cause of discontent. Madam (quoth the Knight) to my knowledge, this I will say, my father being a Courtier in some regard, whereby I became familiar with the Prince, and as youth will make choice of some one to participate with, so it pleased the Prince, loving my father well, to use my company in all his exercises; through which I saw his demeanour, with such reverent duty to the king acknowledged, and as kindly requited of the king, as on the earth might not be found love more perfect till his speech failing in his mouth, he could utter no more. The Princess giving heed to each word by him pronounced, albeit she saw the repeating of the Prince's life, was somewhat cumbersome unto him, yet ceased he not to urge him, to show such sorrow in delivering the story so of her desired. Ah Madam (quoth the knight) at his departure, began our Country's grief and my sorrow, from whom in life, I could never be separated, such was my love to him, which refused himself, his Crown, and dignities. Adolefull tale hast thou delivered (quoth the Princess) which I perceive moveth you to impatience, wherefore, one demand and an end. The Prince Dionicus, made choice of you, for his companion: Then under benedicitie let me crave (all law of friendship exempted) did he not acquaint you with his determinations? for me thinks it is scant credible, that such an unity should be amongst men, their loves being so perfect, but he should disclose each secret intent whatsoever: many reasons draweth me to suppose it, which I will omit, for I perceive I am too tedious. Your Ladyship urgeth me far, yet will I accomplish your request, who have power to command me. The Gentleman who never offended, but in committing of this great offence, long before his departure, having belike some motion of desire in his thoughts, became of a pleasant Gentleman, the most melancholiest that could be found; that quite abolishing all company, he best contented himself with his secret cogitations; continuing this homour so long, that he fell sick of an extreme Fever; which so increased upon him, as all Physics relief was quite given over: so that small was the hope of his recovery, whose distress, the kind King, with the mother Queen, grieved in such wise to behold, as in short time it was hard to be judged which of the three endured most extremes. But God that in adversity sends comfort, restored the Prince to some strength: belike receiving some comfort in his imaginations, & by his recovery, the King & Queen were both so comforted, as in short time they were raised from their sick cabinets, to frolic it amongst their noble subjects, who joyed in nothing so much as in their healths. But how soon the Sunshine of their happiness was overshadowed with clouds of comfortless care, grieveth me to recount; yet dare I not gainsay your ladyships request. The Prince recovered of his malady, made semblance of such content, that none but himself could witness by the least suspicion, his hearts discontent, yet oftentimes should I, being seldom from his company, sighing with a number of far fetched sobs, hear him say, Peerless Lady, would my love were as well known to thee as to mine own heart, then doubtless wouldst thou pity me which lanquish for thee, that art the only Princess on the earth, excelling in all virtues which beautify the honourable; the report of which hath fettered my fancies to thee, that I protest to be thine, or never mine own: then looking with a ghastly look about him, to see if any overheard him, he would fall into some other discourse, ever applauding the rare perfections of his mistress, who was unknown to all but only to himself & I, who from the first he acquainted with the same: briefly Lady, (for I weary you with my discourse) the love of his Lady hath drawn him from his country, whose absence caused the king's exile, & the King's exile the queens death.  
The Princess hearing all these extremes to grow from affection, knowing well her own hearts discontent, with a sigh from the deepest, which wrong tears from her heart, she said; Alas noble Gentleman, whose joy so soon overwhelmed, hath heaped so many cares upon me, what folly was there in thee, that wouldst not disclose thy love which burned so vehemently: was the dame so base, that thou fearest thereby to ignoble thy issue, or of such high estate thou doubtest to obtain her; if either, by persuasions all griefs might have been mitigated: if a Monarch, why thou by report deservest her; if a beggar, thou mightest make her noble; what ere she were hearing thy distress, could she forbear to pity thee? No, no, were her heart more harder than the Diamond, it could not choose at the hearing thereof, but relent: else, well worthy were she to be scorned of all Ladies, and never to be named amongst the number of women.  
The Prince seeing the Princess in this pitiful humour, thought it good striking when the iron was hot, & taking the opportunity, answered her thus: Is your ladyships censure such of hardhearted Ladies, & will not be entreated of him, whose love to you, is no whit inferior to the Pr. Dionicus, as himself would confess were he present, & hard me recount the many griefs, wherewith love hath afflicted me: & might he ●e judge, would allow me recompense for my service in love. But Madam, if without offence I might demand this; say Nutania, the Princess of Thrace were the Saint, unto whom this unhappy Prince had vowed his devotions, and that all the passions he hath endured▪ are for your love, would you vouchsafe him love in recompense thereof? The Princess driven to her shifts at this demand, could not tell what to answer, yet sharpening her wits (as women can do) she said: Pheander, Love is not to be dallied with, as I have heard them say, which speak by experience; therefore I cannot directly answer thy question, but were I the Physician that could cure his malady, and had so good judgement of his affects as of mine own, charity would I should minister unto his disease, what effect soever the potion would work; provided this, that he disclosed his grief in time: mistake me not Pheander, and pardon me if I conceal what I would utter, my thoughts are mine own. Truth Lady (quoth the Knight) neither was the same demanded to urge any thing more than standeth with your good liking: yet for the prince; this I say, it were pity he should die for love. So say I, (quoth the Princess) for few men there be of that condition, and as seldom is such a one seen, as multitudes of black Swans. Your error is great, Madam, (quoth the knight) for many have been with love so overcome, that Kings have been enforced to stoop to their subjects, and the greatest conquerors, whose valour many volumes record, by love compelled to forsake themselves, taking sundry shapes and many toils, to gain the love of their Ladies. I speak now Madam for the Prince, whom I love well, and challenge your charity may be to him continued, for your love is the only physic that must cure him, or else all other helps are frivolous: in hope whereof, he breathes a lingering life, till your gracious consent finish his griefs, yielding to his desires, in whom it resteth, to restore him; banished, to his regal dignities, who is the cause of his exile: dastardness hath caused him to conceal it, bearing the extremity of his passions with intolerable pain, whose flames increaseth by viewing your excellent perfections; The want of whose grace, haileth him on to desperation, not able any longer to resist loves assaults, which with such hot alarms assaileth him, that longer he cannot endure them. The Princess hearing her Knight plead for the Prince with such earnestness, leaving his own suit, to draw her to love him of whom her thoughts were least on, thought it some policy of the Knight, which imagined love had vanquished her, swelling with anger at these new imaginations, he● colour changed into so many forms, that the least child which had seen the same, might easily have guessed what small content those last uttered speeches wrought. But doubting least with silence it should be perceived, with a heart full fraught with fury, she said; Deceitful wretch, unworthy the favour of the simplest drug, that by thy subtle practices hast sought to insinuate thyself into my secrets, was it not false varlet, sufficient that I forbear the punishing of thy own bold writings, but to my face in colourable manner, deludest me with tales of I know not what. Have I ever graced thee since I first saw thee, and requitest thou my favour thus, dallying with me as with thy inferior, or some of thy base Trulls? No, no, use thy jest with such that can better digest them, and from henceforth be warned, (and warned) take heed how thou dare either by word or writing, use any like motions, lest I acquaint the world with thy impotent dealings, and by death thou receive the guerdon of thy ill: and so far as thou mayst, for never expect farther favour at my hands.  
The Prince hearing this finitive sentence, from her, whose tongue was to pronounce his life or death, thought it high time to speak for himself before she departed, and staying her as she would have gone, he humbly besought her, not in displeasure to leave him, but with patience endure what he could say: which albeit she might hardly be won to grant, yet her former affection banished choler in such wise, that he had liberty to speak, saying;  
Gracious Lady, that I offended your Exellence, whom of all earthly creatures I most honour, I heartily sorry for it, judge me not so impudent or senseless, to move matter without some reason, especially induced thereunto by your excellent favour, and charitable pity of the wretched estate of that unhappy Prince, who hath vowed to love your grace to the death: and by granting him your love, you shall draw him from death, & thereby not only restore him, but fill the hearts of many thousands with joy, which with tears continually lamenteth his loss, which is lost to them for ever, and shortly will be loss to himself & the whole world. Unhappy Prince, why name I him Prince, whose miseries is more than the most wretched slave that liveth, who not able to endure the force of love, hath forsaken himself, to follow his own affections, without knowledge of father, kin, or subjects. Muse not Madam, at the strangeness of the Tale I have to deliver, nor let it seem incredible, that I am that unhappy Dionicus, lawful heir of the Numedian Crown, that Prince, through whom so many miseries is befallen his country, his father's care, & cause of his careful mother's untimely death, who fettered in loves bands, by report of thy peerless beauty & virtues, hath drawn me to take the habit of a merchant, usurping the name of Pheander, the more unsuspected to attain the sight of thee whom my heart so desired: whom if thou pity, liveth by thy love to do thee honour, and without thee, may no longer enjoy this life; in pursuit of whose love, if I die, my ghost among the rest of lovers▪ shall sing hymns in laud of thy peerless beauty.  
The Princess as one in a trance, could not tell whether she heard him speak, or dreamt, yet noting his countenance which showed a troubled spirit, tickled with a sudden joy, as women be proud in their Loves, that her love to Pheander, was methamorphosed to Dionicus, the Numedian Prince, of whom her father's Courtiers reported such honours, she said; Pheander, or how I shall call thee I know not, thou hast filled my senses with a world of confused thoughts, in recounting the strangeness of thy fortunes, which I can hardly be drawn to believe, nor is it possible that the Prince Dionicus could live in the Court of Thrace, so long concealed, without knowledge of some one, if I might by reason be induced to believe the same, I would say more▪ Madam quoth the Prince, howsoever I have disguised myself heretofore, as loath to be dishonoured, yet believe me in this, that I said no more than is truth. Therefore if thou couldst not love Pheander being a merchant, for ignobling thy noble house, yet as I am Prince of Numedia, vouchsafe me thy liking, by whom thy honour can no way be disparaged, but by exchanging love for love with him, advance thy honour far higher. Say n●w Madam, all niceness set apart, can you love?  
The Princess, whose love was equal, though willingly she would have coloured the same, yet moved with a pitiful desire to ease his grief, which far surpassed, as also to ease her own heart which was not a little infected with the self disease, their welfares depending both on her grant or denial. After she had deliberated a while, fixing her hand in his, which she easily grasped, and leaning her head on his shoulder to cover the blushing of her face, as ashamed of what she had to say unto him, in revealing her own grief, she said;  
Famous Prince, whom the world applaudeth, and our Courtiers of Thrace, with wonder do admire, that I loved thee being Pheander, I cannot deny, and how many jars I endured for thee, I omit: each particular, wring tears from my heart, which how willing so ever it was to have made the same known, modesty restrained, laying before me many wrongs offered in Lady's love, by such perjured knights, as have professed with their tongues what their hearts never meant, whereby divers Ladies of honour, have been dishonoured, & sundry lost their lives, (which considered) blame me not, if I rather choose to die, then pass the bands of modesty so far, as seek thy love, or knowing thy grief, to blame mine, (yield) before I heard thee avow on thine honour, what thy letters imported. But gentle Prince, that thou mayst better believe what I report, how much soever my heart hath denied to reveal, persuade thee, if I loved thee being Pheander, and a counterfeit merchant, assure you, I cannot hate thee for that thou art Dionicus, (the one a Prince) the other an inferior, of whose love were I assured, and that his tongue and heart agreed in one, Dionicus, should be in love so requited, as never any should have interest in nutania's heart, but the peerless Prince of Numedia. At uttering of which, tears restrained her speech, which the Prince noted, and perceiving that she spoke what her heart thought, he comforted her thus.  
Faint not Madam, neither sorrow for those comfortable confections bestowed on a dying creature, whose favours hath haled him from the grave, whereunto he was like to have been swallowed, had not thy comfort reclaimed me, who living, died for thy love, which grace shall never be forgotten. And that you shall assure you my faith and love is firm and honourable, I protest by that honour that ever the Numedian Prince hath regarded, that my love to the Princess Nutania, is no other but honourable, nor never none hath had any interest in Dionicus, or ever shall, but the only beautiful, and virtuous Princess Nutania: and on that, take here my hand, and with my hand, the heart, love, and honour of a Prince. Guenela, lending an ear to this prattle, hearing them so earnest, to put them from their melancholy, took the word at advantage, and coming suddenly to them, said; Madam, at finishing of bargains they shake hands, if there be any exchange between your knight and you, you were best to take witness, least disliking the match, he recant his word. Guenela, quoth the Prince, your Lady is beholding to thee for thy care, (and I) your debtor, challenge it when you please. Sir, quoth Guenela, I thank you, but wilt please you remember your promise, & excuse Guenela (quoth the Princess) without my Lord the Prince his further entreaty, I pardon all faults committed against me; for confirmation of which, get your Lawyer to draw an acquittance general from the beginning of the world, and I will sign it.  
Nay Madam (answered Guenela,) it were an evil servant that will not take her mistress word for a dozen or two of stripes, which I am sure had been the most, and if they should light on my ribs, might well grieve me, slay me they could not, my heart is of more valour than so. But Madam, shall Sir Pheander marry the Princess Nutania, that you call him your Lord the Prince? if that be the bargain, I fear there is some fire in the straw. And how then (quoth the Princess?) Nay Madam (quoth Guenela) nothing, but I pray God give you much joy, and make you happy in your love. While they were thus pleasant, a page brought word that divers Ladies were come to visit the Princess, which caused them, how loath so ever, after many sweet embracings and loving kisses, between them interchanged, to give each other the farewell, parting better content, than they came together, having unburdened their hearts of much griefs, giving content to both, by yielding to love, which vanquished both, whom to their pleasing imaginations I leave, to recount the Kings of Thrace, and Thessaly, their pastimes in hunting. These Kings following the chase with great pleasure, as pastime they greatly delighted, were so wearied with the same, and toiled with the extremity of heat, which made them choose some place under the shadow of the spreading trees to refresh themselves, where they had not long rested, but they were espied of an ancient woman, the widow of good ye●man, and her son, who having workmen not far from thence, were carrying them victuals. The poor aged woman having seen (as she thought unseen) the kings, doubting they were some of those robbers, that haunted those mountains, would have shifted from them another way, but were interrupted of the King, who suddenly calling them, drove them both into such a shaking fear, as they which are overburdened with a fever. The King who graciously regarded their timmorousnesse, comforted them with all the favourable speeches he could use, protesting unto them, that in their company they should receive no discourtesy, by none, if the King himself were present, and therefore willed them to set fear apart, and to tell them what they were, the cause of their fear, and their business they had that way? These honourable speeches of the King mildly uttered, comforted them, wherefore in such blunt manner as her bringing up required, she said;  
Gentlemen, for so you seem, if your inward conditions, answer your outward habit, (as many in this age doth) whose garments might become men of great worth, if apparel may make a man more worthy, yet diverse times cover those carcases, void either of worship, honesty, or other good condition. Pardon my harsh behaviour, (gentle sir) and blame me not for avoiding the way, experience ha●●▪ taught me to eschew harms, who to my cost have dearly paid for my learning, having my goods spoiled at home, and myself & family, dangered abroad: and without offence may I speak it, by such, whose countenance and attire, might well have deceived them of more judgement than myself.  
The King delighted with her plain speeches, demanded where she dwelled, and whether she had a husband, or lived a widow? Oh sir, if any gentleness abide in you, (quoth she) urge me not to deliver a tale of such ruth, as your questions import. The remembrance of my passed pleasant life, when I call to mind, with the cares I now am cumbered with, many sundry ways, are so displeasing unto my grieved heart, as I may not without many tears shed, recount the same. These words spoken in heaviness, noted of the King, made him more importunate to hear the rest, and therefore willed her all fear set apart, to reveal unto him, what estate she lived in, and if any wrongs were offered her, he protested by oaths which might have been well believed, to remedy it, yea if it were the King himself. The careful widow encouraged by these comfortable words, albeit she hoped of small relief from him, partly to ease her heart, and a little to disgrace her adversary which was mighty, all the revenge she could take, thus said;  
〈…〉 that I may not seem discourteous to you, whose curti 〈…〉ed, is more than I can any way deserve, but in 〈…〉 your welfare, which pitieth a poor widows e 〈…〉 e weal is the good of her poor fatherless Or 〈…〉 with pity my case, and consider thereof, as 〈…〉 ease. Then drying her eyes, which like gutters bedeawed her cheeks, she said; Not far from hence (gentle sir) is my poor cabinet, where this fifty winter I have maintained the port of a poor woman, my husband in his life delighting in hospitality, & on his death bed, gave me charge to do the like, which I have observed, hurting none, nor never denying any good to them that sought me; the needy I 〈…〉 bored, whom with my bread & such viands as God sent, 〈…〉 e fed. But now sir, (quoth she) and therewithal a deep 〈…〉 itnesse of her heart's heaviness, restrained her speeches, 〈…〉 some pause, said; But now sir, such is the oppressi 〈…〉 covetous in authority, that my living is taken from 〈…〉 i'th' my family compelled to seek harbour where we can 〈…〉 if God the comfort of the distressed, provide not within 〈…〉 e months for us, longer we have not there to abide. Tel● me woman (quoth the King) what he is that thus iniureth thee, and the manner how? and as I am a true subject to the king, I will never leave thee till thou art with justice revenged on him. Oh sir (quoth she) urge me no more to that, for my adversary being honourable, & of account with the king, although the wrong I sustain be great, yet will he revenge himself so on me & mine, as my life will be the least & last▪ such is his bloody mind, who hath neither conscience, nor thought of any good, ●le after so many years of peaceable possession, of this tennement, in name of my husband's ancestry, as our evidence doth specify, he would not thus extréemly deal, with those whom charity would he should comfort; but such is his cruelty, who ought to be courteous, that his covetousness is never satisfied, haling all from the poor, profiting none, but himself, his children, or servants, who reap the benefit of many men's labours, for wh●● suit passeth, but what he must like of? or what w 〈…〉 King deny, that he will grant? Lamentable is it 〈…〉 the complaints of the commons, of all estates, ho 〈…〉 they murmur, nay not only against him, but 〈…〉 by others reports, that the King's name is 〈…〉stion of many, all proceeding of this canka 〈…〉 guiding all, abuseth all. The Soldier serving 〈…〉 his country's honour wanteth his pay, which causeth him fall to robbery, and other unlawful exercises. The Farmer, Grazier, and such that live of the benefit of their tillage, feeding cattle, and other hard labours, have their cattle taken, their corn, and what they enjoy, and driven to seek their money by long suits, and in the end glad to besto 〈…〉 the one half to be assured of the other, yet dare none 〈…〉 plain how great so ever the oppression be. Thus sir▪ 〈…〉 tisfie you, I have spoken the truth what I have he 〈…〉 partly that I know, which I and many more ma 〈…〉 but cannot remedy it. But sir, what I have spoke 〈…〉 you will conceal, for if you be friend to him, w 〈…〉 not name, yet you can imagine: If under your f 〈…〉 words lurk deceit, and that you have sifted me, to be●ay me to his cruelty, such ill befall thee as I wish him, whom I have cause to curse, & others with me, whom he hath likewise wronged. But had the king knowledge how he useth his subjects, especially his tenants, who is our good Landlord, and thus many years hath been, he would redress it; but he having the charge of all, hath received a great fine to thrust me from my right, which God remedy, and grant our king to understand his tyranny. Amen (quoth the king) May it be possible that he whom (I know) the King hath loved so dear, and fixed, where their cause should be heard and restitution made, which in such sort was accomplished, that his lands, leases, plate and jewels, were distributed to the wronged. The widow who first gave notice thereof, the King enriched with greater possessions to maintain her hospitality, and Zachary for that his Dania should not for want of wealth refuse him, he bountifully rewarded, so that every one was pleased, and returned content to their homes.  
Now Gentiles, the History shall shows you how Theophilus' King of Thessaly, expected the aid of Thrace, for restoring him to his kingdom, which promise the King so regarded, that in short time, through the diligence of those Captains to whom the charge thereof was committed, the number appointed was furnished, with shipping, munition and victuals, for the Army, of whom the Thracian king took the Muster, appointing their leaders. The chief (by name of General) for the service, was the Maiden Knight, who was urged unto it by the two kings, in such manner, that no excuses nor delays which he could make, might be accepted, unless he should by his too much refusal, purchase the name of coward: this choice greatly disliked the Knight, whose wars in love, had but newly begun to take success, who scarcely assured of the Princess, although her promised faith might put him in comfort, yet weighing the unstability of their sex, he doubted least his absence might draw her to that which he would heedfully regard being present. The tidings of her father's election, made of her love for general, as novelties are rife and flieth with swift wings, came unto the hearing of the Princess, unto whom if they were irksome, suppose you, that know how grievous the parting of two faithful lovers are, who having her only felicity in contemplating of her beloved Dionicus, their joys but now in the blossoms, was so nipped in the spring, as care banished all future happiness, and sorrow began to claim her w●nted place in both, but especially the Princess who framed of the weaker mould, heaviness had taken the more impression in her, so that forsaking all company, her chiefest delight was to be solitary, where she might with deep sighs and many brinish tears, unburden her overcharged heart, cursing bitterly the cause, and causer of separating her love. In this melancholy uttering such speech of despair, as though she saw the dreadful messenger Death, already seized upon the valiant knight. The knight who could take as little rest, as his Lady pleasure, could find content in no place, until he came to the Princess lodging, whom found in this passion, which was more grievous than all the rest, her blubbered eyes pressing blood from his heart, beholding her in that plight, whose happy content, was his only joy. But how cumbersome so ever it was unto him, with wisdom he advisedly weighed, that cares must be comforted in time, least taking deep root, they will consume the heart subject unto it. Therefore after many kind persuasions used, he laid before her, the honour of the place assigned him, and what infamy would redound unto him refusing it, with the dishonour of him, and stain to his Proginy for ever, the cause being right, and the action of her Princely father so charitable, whereon the welfare of a whole kingdom consisted.  
The Princess whom grief had near overcome, hearing her beloved speak so honourably, and well considering it was greatly to his infamy, to deny her father, though hardly won to patience, yet armed with hope of his valour and fortunate success in his journey, reason and wisdom subduing grief and sorrow, she granteth her consent, hearty praying for his safe and sudden return, to his eternal honour, and increasing of the hearts content.  
Time that stayeth not, causeth these Princes to part, Pheander, to give directions for his journey, his provision being all to make, but such care had he of the same, as he was suddenly provided of all needful things, expsecting a fair wind for embarking his companies, which God sent as they desired, when each one taking leave of their friends, with many a loath departing farewell, he betook himself to the mercy of the waves, who by his goodness, that commandeth and governeth all things, favoured them with so happy a gale, that in short time they might descry the high land of Egypt, which being by his skilful pilots known, they struck their sails to Hull, until a general Council was called, where every man had liberty to deliver his advise for the benefit of the action. Where after long debating, and each peril advisedly weighed, it was determined, the Fleet should put again into the Sea, lest they being a huge number should be descried, and their intent thereby made frustrate. To bring their purpose to better effect, a frigate was slenderly manned to avoid suspicion, who in the night rowed hard aboard the shore, with Commission to take what ere he were they could first lay hold off, that they might be the rather advertised of the state of the Country, and where the King was.  
This devise sorted to such effect, thet through the great diligence of the Lord Cariolus, who was appointed for the same, as one desirous to gain honour, by dawning of the day they recovered a Rock, which opened with one of their principal port, under which unseen, they might shelter themselves, and yet have sight of each shallop, whether he were fisher or other, that came or went. Long had they not lain expecting their desires. But Fortune, who favoured their enterprise, discovered unto them a a Galley bound for Babylon, freighted with many passengers of honour, and exceeding rich, with plate, money and jewels. This Galley first descried, half dismayed the company, who feared she▪ had been a man of war sent of purpose to surprise them, so that each one had greater desire to be gone again, then to attempt any thing against them. But in extremes is the Noble mind best tried, as the Lord Cariolus in this, who seeing the cowardice of such base companions, first by fair persuasions encouraged them to the attempt, showing in his countenance his resolution, and arming them with hope of victory, not omitting the reward of so honourable an action, which if they escaped with victory being the beginning of their enterprise, deserved more to be recompensed then all the rest. To give you courage my hearts (quoth he,) I say not to you go, but follow me your Leader, who will either win her, or leave my life in so good a cause. But these speeches with those dastards prevailed not at all, who seeing the match unequal, cried still to be gone, but Cariolus, who weighed his honour far above all, moved with great impatience at their denial, with his Rapier drawn came amongst them, reviling them with odious speeches, and protesting what ere he were that should in the least sort either by word or countenance, make show to return, should with his own hand be murdered, and so long as he might breathe, no faint hearted villain should dishonour him, who came to gain honour. Therefore sweet bloods (quoth he,) take courage and fear not, death with honour, is to be valued more than life, with a kingdoms possession, who so followeth me, shall find me ever his friend, and what ere I possess, shall have interest in it. The company how loath so ever they were to be won to so hard an adventure, yet seeing the noble man so resolute, thought it bootless to refuse him, or to make semblant of dislike, holding it more wisdom to keep his honourable friendship by their forward adventuring, then procure his envy by their cowardice, and seeing it high time to resolve, the galley approaching them near, they cried to proceed, and they would all follow him, Cariolus pleased with their willingness, had scarce leisure to give directions for the fight▪ before the galley came within hailing, whose force being such and so well manned as she was, made small account of the Frygat, who although they halled many times, yet making as if they heard not, bore up with them, and valiantly without words, entered her in the Prow, putting them from their Ordinance, where they within board with their Pistols, Semitaries, and other needful weapons, valiantly behaved themselves, Cariolus crying still courage, courage, Thessaly, so long that in short time the Cavileres were all stowed, and his company leaving his Frygat entered all the Galley, as lawful Prize to be shared amongst them. The Noble Cariolus having ended the fight, he kindly with words of favour and promise of liberty, with great reward to the slaves, urged them to apply their labour, which with so willing hearts accomplished his request, that in short time they had sight of their Fleet, and bear with them all they might, which being descried, they could not imagine whether the Galley were friend or no, wherefore the General to avoid peril, as wisdom with valour is requisite, doubting that by firing or other mischief, they might annoy them, he called by his flag of Council, the commanders of each ship, frygat and galley, advising them to take great regard, how they suffered the galley to board them. By that time the whole Fleet was prepared in squadrons, rowing five and five, warlike and brave, Cariolus came up with them, when the fleet halled them, they espied his own colours advanced on the Poop, and an other Ensign hanging under her stern, which sight gave them great cause of joy, to signify their gladness for his success, each ship in the forward with their Ordinance and small shot, according to the manner of the sea, bade him welcome. In which Triumph, unhappily with a scowrer which negligently was shot from a Harquebus, was the Noble Cariolus wounded, to the great grief of all the Nobles. The General having understanding thereof, in his shalop boarded him withal the speed he might, carrying with him his own Surgeon, and such as professed physic, doubting the grief to be more dangerous than it proved, whereof, albeit the report was first offensive to him, yet was comforted in this comfort, the wound not mortal, they regarding it as nothing, when the General had carefully seen the wound searched and dressed, inquiring what they were which he had taken, he caused all the chief of them to be called unto him, who on their examinations would confess little, which forced the General to put one of the inferiors, attendant on Phidamia, the Egyptian kings brother, to be tortured, who forced with the cruelty thereof, confessed what they were, and how their going for Babylon, was to entreat a peace with the Emperor, who as they were informed, levied a power to subvert their country, in revenge of the wrong offered Phedera, sister to the Thessalian King, slain in a battle fought at sea, by the Egyptian King. This news was not sooner revealed then welcome, for hereby they were assured of an expected friend, yet inquired the General, whether their King had married the Princess Phedera, or no, and where he lived? Sir quoth the Egyptian, after the victory obtained, wherein the Noble Theophilus perished, the King my master, furnished for such an attempt, without further stay or suffering them to gather head, which he was sure they would do, hearing of their Kings ill success: to prevent which, he framed his course thither, where they suddenly arrived, and by their power and policy, subdue the chiefest of the Nobility, who having them sure, they easily and in short time, overcame the rest, where he was by general voices (though) against their liking, Crowned King of Thessaly. How he punished the Nobility, I omit, embacing them, and raising in their places them far unworthy such honour and reputation, so that neither Gentleman or other of account, but liveth in great servitude and slavery, glad to be relieved with needful viands and apparel, at their hands, which themselves have often fed.  
The Princess, for all the persuasion he can use, he cannot in love obtain, yet hath he used the good Lady, more cruelly than I would willingly report, the strangeness of her tortures being such, as few but doth greatly pity. And now as our last Posts imparted unto us, he hath appointed a time wherein she must resolutely answer him to his content, or end her life in fire. The which cruelty to her used, reported by Merchants of Babylon, with the virtues of the Princess, and coming to the Emperor's ears, being now in the prime of his years, either of policy being mighty, to release her, or whether to make her his Lady and wife, I cannot say, but he hath required her in marriage, pretending great love unto her, which the King will not grant unto. But in words of great despite hath answered him, in such manner, as he greatly disliking, hath with fire and sword defied him, who being a Prince of very great might and force, our nobles of Egypt, have thought good rather to join with favourable shows of friendship, then abide the extremity of his fury. Lo sir, quoth he, thus have I satisfied your request, which is all I can do. And for the same quoth the Knight, receive thy liberty, with what other favour I may do thee.  
These news was as pleasing to the Maiden Knight, as if he had been possessed of the Crown, and having such advantage, holding it small policy to lose any time, comforting Cariolus, emmitting the charge of his prisoners unto his good regard, he hasteth to his own ship, where, unto Theophilus' King of Thessaly, he recounted what he had heard, desiring that order might be presently taken, whereby the enemy might be surprised at unawares, so might they finish their intents with less danger and more honour, on which they agreeing, they summoned their chiefest, unto whom, the Knight recounted what the Egyptian had declared, beseeching the King whose cause it was, to speak his mind, than the rest to give their advise what they thought was best to be done, for accomplishing their desires, and planting the King in his own Countries.  
These questions propounded, each particular peril, with each advantage, and occasion which offered good success was thoroughly debated, when they had each one delivered their mind, Pheander, whose honour was now in the Balance, as one that desired no worldly possessions so much as the reputation with his mistress and the King, said; Noble Gentlemen, you have all like resolute, brave & hardy men at Arms, showed in your speeches the desire you have to do this noble King that service for which we come, if therefore you will incline your ears to my opinion among the rest, I shall acknowledge myself greatly favoured by you. The whole company which by courtesy was drawn to his love, was easily won to this request, and willed him say on, which he did in this manner.  
My Noble Lords, and friends in Arms, touching these motions made for our proceedings, it hath been by the Egyptian reported, whom we do credit, the King is in possession of Thessaly, which Crown, we know all, he doth dishonourably usurp. The Princess, she, in such extreme, that by his cruel censure is not long to live, unless against her will she grant to love him, who is loathsome in her eyes. To prevent which, it behoveth us to search the best mean that we can, and for that every one hath given his censure, this is my advise, that having these Nobles in our possession, in whom consisteth the strength of his Realm, our company being lusty and strong, we will range their confines, where finding place & opportunity, we may surprise them at unawares, who being subdued, his force shall be the more impaired. That done, we will with all convenient speed pass for Thessaly, where I doubt not but to come before the time limited the Princess for her answer, and to rescue her, delivering the possession of the Crown, into the kings hand, the Knight having said, presently it was confirmed, and each Captain departed to his charge according to directions given, entered the confines of Egypt, where they wrought by such policy and directions of the Maiden Knight, that they landed in the dead of the night, the greatest part of their Armies, marching in warlike order towards the City of Buckelia, where the king kept his chief Court, and where their greatest force was. But before they could recover the walls, or come to view the same for any advantage, they were descried, and the gates shut, against whom the Citizens made such power as they could for their defence, which unexpected of the Knight, caused him to stay until himself went to know their pleasures and to deliver his own intent. And mounting himself, only accompanied with his Herald and one Trumpet, he came before the walls, summoning them to parley, which was answered again by an other Trumpet, and such of the nobility as was within, showed themselves unto him, demanding a cause of his coming in Arms to disturb their dominions, and the subjects to their King.  
Nobles of Egypt, answered the Maiden Knight, Theophilus lawful King of Thessaly, whose Crown, your King Donacia, unjustly withholdeth, preserved by heavens power for your scourge, and to revenge the blood of those innocents slain by your cruelty, is come with fire and sword to require his right, which if you accept, and will deliver, he sends you by me mercy, if you deny and do not surrender your Crown of Egypt, with all the regalties, honours, privileges and customs, thereunto belonging, and become his faithful subjects and liegemen, you shall all perish with the sword, and your Country flaming with fire, shall be overthrown, in such manner, that in time to come, there shall nothing be found but the ruins of your gorgeous Palaces, and stately Cities, this hath he vowed by the honour of his name: therefore choose like wary Champions, and let me know your wills, for no detraction may be used.  
The Egyptian Pheres, which heard the name of Theophilus, whom they long sithence supposed dead, were surprised with a sudden fear, in such manner as their senses were deprived, and they r●s●ed like men in ecstasy, fearing the revenge of him whom they did all know was by their King highly wronged, yet showing the Nobility of their minds, shaking off fear, they said; Sir Knight, thy unlooked for message is such, as we know not suddenly how to answer, neither will we like faint hearted peasants, derogate from our Noble ancestors, the honour they long maintained, with cowardice to deliver that which nature and fidelity urgeth us to defend, our lives we esteem as they are, vain, and every day subject to casualties & death, nor do we enjoy that small time given us, but only for our Commonweal, and benefit of our Country, being pillars on whom the state dependeth: you have dastardlyke waited opportunity to take us at advantage, our King not present, whose right and interest we are sworn to maintain. Therefore to Theophilus say; That as we serve our King, and live by his Grace, we will with our dearest blood withstand the invasion of any foreign Prince whatsoever. If our king as you allege, have offered wrong unto him, let him revenge it on him, and seek his amends where he may get it, for other entertainment let him not look for here.  
The Maiden Knight, hearing their resolution, greatly commended their valour, and loyalty to their sovereign, who seeing their truth, pitied them, and wished all men so faithful minds: yet how well so ever he liked their answer, their intents was to be considered, who came with more resolute minds then to be won with fair words, and therefore returned with all haste to the Camp, where to the king, he briefly delivered the sum of their answer, which the king took no pleasure to hear, rather desiring their submission by courtesy, than the effusion of blood; yet not to pity them in such manner to give over the advantage he had, wherefore that they might be assured of his resolution which came to conquer, from his usurping foe, taking his Army which was led by the appointed General, he brought them before the City, unto whom they gave many sharp and fierce alarms, and were valiantly repulsed, not without great loss of either part. Thus continued the assault long and dreadful, till Pheander noting the time of the Princess phedera's death to draw near, when either she must be rescued, or die that extreme death assigned, he determined to put all on fortune, to see the end, and not longer to prolong time. And calling those whose valour he had most assurance off, he made known unto them his intent, requiring their company, whereunto small persuasions served, desirous to be a partner with him in his actions, which were in all things very honourable. The knight assured of his friends and followers in this action, gave directions to all Captains, at the going down of the Sun to be ready furnished with their companies, to bid the enemy battle, doing their best, before that place where their chief force was, in the mean time, he with his accomplices would assail some other part which was of less ability to defend.  
Thus these noble Gentlemen, having determined as they say, to win the horse or lose the saddle, neglected no time, so that against the appointed hour, each man in his place was readily furnished, and most valiantly attempted with all warlike Ensigns to enter the City, battering, scaling, and each several ways searching, that policy or valour would permit, to bring the City to ruin, and vanquish the enemy, which was most nobly defended with great courage and much loss of either part. While they were at their hardy fight on either part, it is not to be forgotten, how the Maiden Knight with his associates, seeking opportunity, by chance lighted on the side of an old wall, which being somewhat decayed, they by industry of their hands & painful toil, easily made the breach such, that they entered at pleasure, and passing through the streets which led to the assaulted gate, molested no man until they came thither, where entering the same, slew the watch and opened the gate, advancing the Thracian Kings colours on the top thereof, crying ever in their way as they passed, Thessaly, Thessaly. This cry amazed the Citizens, and Armed the Thracians to the hotter attempt, who entered to the rest, & with such courage bore them, that they had soon vanquished the defendants, who to save their lives, had betaken themselves to their Churches, as places of Sanctuary, from whence they sent their wives and Infants all disrobed, to search the King, and in their names to require his pardon, such diligence made the modest matrons, that they were brought by Pheander to the King, where prostrating themselves at his feet, their face bedeawed with tears, they humbly besought him to take compassion on them, their husbands and children, that as he was a Conqueror, so with favour to use the glory of his victory, as the poor subjects might not have cause to complain them of his cruelty, who had done nothing blame worthy, but as true subjects to their sovereign the King, whose heart was moved with pity at their suit, gently took them up, measuring their calamity by his own misfortunes, and bethought him of their fidelity, yet pretending a show of unkindness, for refusing his mercy proffered them by his noble General, he would not be entreated suddenly to grant them life, which the Noble Pheander noted, and like himself, weighing their faith to their Prince, and weal of their Country, which with their lives they had sought to maintain, he was content to remit their fault, and not only to pardon their lives, but restore them to all former liberties, and places of honour, without any disparagement to their royalty, so that they would acknowledge him their sovereign, and be as faithful to him and his, as they had showed themselves to that usurper his enemy. This choice at first seemed hard, yet of two evils the least is to be chosen, as these Nobles of Egypt, who seeing their lives, wives, children, and what they possessed, to be in the hands of strangers, whom they could not withstand, making a virtue of necessity, were the rather won to yield themselves unto the King's pleasure, at the intercession of their wives, whose tears shed in abundance, moved them to ruth, in such wise, that subjecting on these conditions to his Exellence, they proclaimed him king of Thessaly and Egypt, swearing fayaltie unto him, and delivering hostages for their loyalty. This done, the king with general consent Crowned, the Commons 'gan conceive an especial hope of his honourable love to them, whose kindness was such, that having the City and whole kingdom at his pleasure, would not suffer his soldiers to imbeasell or purloin in any sort, but rather made choice to reward the Mercenary men out of his own treasury, which honourable beginning, gained their especial liking: when order was taken for the government of the state, Pheander who was mindful of the Princess Phedera, hasted the King on for Thessaly, often putting him in mind, what dangers the good Lady was likely to abide, if she consented not to the King, who was more cruel than courteous, wherefore taking their pledges, he left the noble Cariolus his Vizegerent, to take the government upon him in his absence, and with the next favourable wind, they set sail for Thessaly, where to their good success we leave them, to tell you more of Mustapha, the Heathen Prince, who was in the Princess Nutania her custody.  
The mighty Emperor of Constantinople, understanding the ill success of his son, with the great slaughter of his men, was moved at the first to such choler, that he had determined for ever to abandon his son, and never to have known or regarded him, but being persuaded by his nobility which tenderly loved the prince, he was at length by their motions, won to conceive, how unstable fortunes chances are, and how victories sometimes happen as well to the coward as the valiant, not forgetting to urge unto him, how dishonourable it were for a Prince, to leave the meanest subject he had at such an exigent, that should adventure his life in his service, much more was his Majesty bound by nature's laws to relieve his son, and not suffer him as one forsaken, to remain in the hands of his enemies, upon which motion of his bashaws, the King caused two Galleys to be rigged and furnished, appointing of his chiefest Nobles too, for that voyage to Thrace, as well to advertise him of his sons welfare which he favoured, as also to agree upon the sum of his ransom, all things furnished for the voyage, the bashaws having taken leave of the Emperor and the rest of their friends, favoured with a happy gale, they shortly arrived in Thrace, of whose arrival, the king by his messengers was advertised, who being of nature honourable and courteous in behaviour, caused a sumptious train of Courtiers, with all the honourable manner they could, to receive them at their Port of landing, taking like order in all lodgings and places of repast, his Officers at his charge to attend them, which in such exquisite manner was performed, as the bashaws with their retinue, admired their entertainment. Thus by easy journeys came they to the court, where the king with the princess, gave them many welcomes, inquiring kindly after the good health of the renowned Emperor their master, whom he maligned no whit at all, how hardly so ever he had measured his friendship with him, when the King and these Nobles had spent some time in discoursing, they inquired of the welfare of their Prince Mustaffa, whom the King caused to be sought and brought to their presence, before whom they bowed themselves in all humbleness, as to the son of their sovereign, whom he again with all kindness embraced, passing the time with much pleasure, joying in the welfare of his friends. The King doing them all the honour that could be devised, passing the time with such recreation and gentle sports as the Country afforded, at length, a sum of money for the Princess ransom was agreed upon to their content, for that it was reasonable, and the conditions honourable, which obtained their victuals by the king was relieved, & all necessaries at his charge purveyed, in such manner, and with so much bounty, as they had great cause to report honourably of the king. Long had they not tarried, but a wind pleasant and favourable, presents itself, which good time, they neglected not, but taking leave of the king, their prince, & princess Nutania, who accompanied them onwards to their galleys, three whole days journeys, they leave them to the care of their journey, who being embarked, in short time arrived at Constantinople, where how welcome they were to the Emperor & his Nobles, I omit, to let you understand of the honourable reports made of their entertainment in Thrace, and the welfare of the prince, whose company, there were few but desired. The strangeness of this report made of Philarcus, was exceeding admirable in the Emperor's ears, who wondered not a little, that a king whom he had so much wronged, should use such kindness to his son, and courtesy to his messengers, extolling highly the honourable condition of the king, and much lamenting his own follies, so rashly without any occasion offered, to injury him so far as to spoil his Country, and to rob him perforce of his only child, his sole delight & comfort. To recompense all which, and to keep his friendship, he presently elected other nobles for Thrace, to be employed, which with the princess ransom, and many rich presents to the king and his daughter were dispatched, with Letters of love, and desire of amity, all which, coming to the Thracian king, were so hearty accepted as they could wish, and in presence of the nobles, and states of both Realms, was the peace concluded, and a band of everlasting friendship promised, to all their joys. Thus with great delight at the earnest intercession of the king, spent those Turkish nobles sometime in Thrace, till their prefixed time gan draw to end, when receiving their Prince with great rewards, and many thanks for their pains they put to Sea, and were not long before they recovered their famous City of Constantinople, where they were most royally welcomed, but especially the Prince, for whose safety many pastimes was ordained, with justings, Attorneys, Barriers, and other pleasing delights, wherein the Prince honourably bore himself, to the great joy of his father, and pleasure of the whole state, who gloried greatly in him, which was likely to prove a most honourable Prince; and their ensuing comfort. But while I digress, let it be considered, that the Maiden Knight, who thirsted to see the end of his desires, slept no time, but made all possible means he could, as wind and weather would give leave, until he arrived in Thessaly, which he recovered in so good time as he could wish, and taking that opportunity which was offered, he landed his companies, and near to the sea side encamped his power, until he might be advertised of what power the King was, and where he remained, for the attaining of which, many espials was sent out sundry ways, and many Ambuscadoes laid, to intercept such as traveled the country: but their landing being descried, every one in the haste they could make, hied them to their cities and places of defence, where they with their store of provision which they brought, were received. The King, who securely passed his time, taking care for nothing, and joying wholly in the hopes he conceived of his Ladies grant, being advertised of the arrival of a foreign power, overcome with sorrow at that instant, as one that never tasted adversity, was surprised with such sudden heaviness, as no words, no persuasions, nor any comfort, might mitigate his sorrow, what pains soever his Nobles took to pacify him, his guilty conscience presaging some hard fortune to be at hand: the Nobility which had more regard to his welfare and his country than he could on the sudden imagine, after they had caused their Rampyers to be shut, and their Fortresses to be made, doubting the worst, desirous to be resolved what the enemy was, that thus daringly durst board him in his own country, they caused the Lord Mama Bacha, sometime one of the chiefest in Thessaly, a wise and well governed Gentleman, to be sent unto them, to know whence they were, and their pretence, which against their wills, unacquainting them with their pretence, had entered their confines. The Noble man to whose charge this was committed, though he had small care of any matter, living dishonoured in his own Country, where, in his King's reign he was the only honoured, and amongst his Nobles in most account of him, had his wits sundry ways employed, and on diverse matters, yet amongst all imaginations, the thought of his own sovereign was lest, the report of his death being so certain, but what so ever he could imagine was uncertain, wherefore as desirous to be resolved of his doubts, as the King and Nobles to be thereof certified, only accompanied with an other of the disgraced Nobility, they hied them towards the Camp, and was by the Ambuscadoes soon surprised and brought to the Pavilion of the General, who saluting them with kind countenance, demanded whence they were, and what occasions led them in such suspicious manner towards their Campe. The Nobles which had small care which end went forward, after they had well advised themselves, said; (sir,) if we give not those titles your honour deserve, pardon us which offend not of presumption therein, but of ignorunce: that we come as spyalls to view thy force, and to discover them, therein you deceive yourself, but come as messengers from our King, to know thy pretence, and what thou meanest landing thy Armies without his licence, which is contrary to law of Arms? If thou come in peace and not as as enemy, resolve us this, & thou honourest us? The prince taking their words at advantage, where they said they came from their King, with a counterfeit show of great dislike, said; Traitors how dare you to my face use those colours of simplicity, when you aver you come from your King, which I know is altogether untrue? wherefore that you shall warn the rest how they delude me, you shall have the reward of traitors, and calling for the provost Martial, commanded him to cut off their heads. The Nobles, thinking he had been past jest, seeing their executioner so ready, humbly besought him to credit what they had said, which was true, and pardon their lives, for that law of Arms protecteth the messenger of the Prince, from whom they come, therefore it would redound to his great dishonour, to violate the hostility of all Princes. While they were thus at their shrift, it chanced Theophilus their lawful King, to enter the Pavilion of his General, whose presence much appalled the Thessalian nobles, who standing as men past themselves, had no thought but in beholding him, which so much resembled their supposed dead king, the long noting of whom, caused them to renew their sorrows, and with remembrance of the times they had passed, to shed tears. The King imagining what they thought, knowing them well, put them from their studious thoughts thus.  
Men of Thessaly, what meaneth your heaviness? think you hereby to delude this noble Gentleman, or by your feign, to procure your favour, if either one or other of these causes, you deceive yourselves, and incur you more trouble? Wherefore to avoid the perils incident unto you, if you be right Thessalians, and tender the walfare of your Princess, in whose rescue we come, briefly declare unto us, in what estate she abideth, and where the usurping king hath his residence? Mama Bacha, hearing that pleasing tongue, wherewith he was acquainted, assured himself that it was their king, and without further stay, humbly kissing his majesties feet, his face bedeawed with tears, and his tongue foltering in his mouth, as one with sudden joy overcome, he saith; My gracious sovereign, how glad am I that enjoy breath, to behold your Majesty alive, whom all the world reputeth for dead, the heavy tidings of which, with your ill success, moved the hearts of your loving subjects to such extreme heaviness, as nothing might comfort, that past comfort, and all hope of beholding your princely face, we reckoned you amongst the dead. In the extreme of this sorrow, as all evils commonly fall in one, when every heart and eye was deploring the loss of so gracious a Prince, then began our further griefs through the oppression of this usurping tyrant, whose cruelty to thy subjects hath been such, as grieveth me to recount. Thy sister he detaineth in prison, from whence he hath vowed she shall never be freed, until with consent she take him for her king, or by gainsaying his demands, receive that death which he hath doomed her unto, whose wrongs we poor men how much so ever we pity, yet can we remedy nothing, our ability being little, and our reputation less, Amongst these cruel Egyptians who hath rob us of what we possessed, not suffering us to enjoy our ancient patrimony, nor what they might any way despoil us of: to revenge of which, we hope in thee and thy power, who wilt maintain and defend thy own lawful right, rather offering thy life amongst us that honour and love thee as our lives, then leave us any more. To the accomplishing of which, myself, with all thy own Country borne subjects that we can procure unto us, will lend what aid our weak force will stretch unto, and thereof assure your Majesty.  
The King hearing the lamentable report of the Lord Mama Bacha, could not forbear to show the heaviness of his heart's sorrow, by his outward motions, yet to hide it as he might, embracing them both, he framed a feigned joy to see them, how so ever his heart was overburdened with grief. When they had passed some time in parley about their affairs, and that some offers were made by these Nobles, of their aid and assistance, a general Council was called, where, by consent of such as had government, understanding the power of Donatio the usurper, was no more but such as guarded his holds, it was determined, after the army had refreshed themselves two or three days, to march forward to the City, there to beleaguer the King, and cut off from them all supply of provision for victuals, whereof they had small store.  
In the mean time, the Lords of Thessaly, to give notice to all their friends, (with all speed) as they tendered their own liberties, to repair with such power as they could make unto the Campe. This devise was no sooner determined on, but the Noble Mama Bacha, without returning to the King, spared not his pains and all others which he could command or entreat, proclaiming in every place as they passed, Theophilus their lawful king, straightly charging all natural subjects of Thessaly, to make repair unto the Campe. These tidings at first were hardly believed, yet such was the rumour of a foreign power landed, that all which could bear Arms repaired to the King, whom they found at the assault of the City where the usurper kept, such was the multitudes of people, which from all countries in his Regions came unto him, that in short time he had power sufficient to overrun a kingdom. The usurper Donatio, who had least thought ever to hear or see the Thessalian King, when the report of his being in the Camp, was brought unto him, his courage quailed, and his hope of enjoying the Crown, was quite extinguished, so that despairing, he became like a man lunatic, that nothing (whatsoever) might move him to any mirth or content, so that giving over all, he cared not what became of himself or his, y●t was he carefully counseled by his Nobles, who regarded both his honour and their own safety: but whatsoever they might counsel or determine, was ill employed, at his hands was nothing to be had, wherefore, after they saw his small care, and that he was not to be advised, they determined, either in field with unappoynted battle to try their fortunes, or by some such composition as might be for their Courtries' safety and their reputation, to give over their title pretended to the Crown of Thessaly. Before that any thing was of them resolved, the Maiden Knight, which had his mind on his Lady, as well as of other affairs, could not rest in content, until he had finished, and either gained what they came for, or seen the event of fortune. Wherefore to avoid further delays, he summoned the City to parley, wherein he required their answer, whether they would receive their lawful King or no, if yea, they should suffer him in peace to enter, or otherwise upon their answer, to abide the hazard incident to Arms, which he protested should be void of all favour, if he prevailed, and they refused this offer of his. These summons, caused the Nobility to look with better advise into their estates, and with consideration to weigh each particular peril, which they found to be very many, and dangerous, especially seeing the multitude, who were natural subjects, and did rather affect their own King, how so ever they professed in outward appearance, than the usurper, which made them the more earnest with their King, unto whom they declared the offers made by the Maiden Knight, with the doubts they had of his success, who were nothing in number to the King's power, which daily increased, and contrary, his decreased: wherefore they advised him to yield unto such Articles of honour as they would require, which should be both for his honour, and safety of him and his. The usurper hearing these persuasions from them, whereon his chiefest hope consisted, forgetting all former friendship and love to any of them, with most odious words reviled them, calling them traitors, dastards, and upbraiding them with cowardice, which were never found but ever forward in all his actions, only this excepted, wherein was no hope. These speeches moved his Nobles to such fury, that departing from him in discontent, they resolved for their own safety, to seek what means they could, and not by delays to incur his displeasure whose friendship they were by all means they could use, to entreat. Wherefore in name of all the rest, the Lord Philiago, principal Treasurer unto the King, by whose direction the rest would be governed, sent for the Princess (Phedera) from prison, whom he used with honourable speeches, comforting her with hope of her kingly brother, who lived, and was in person come with a strong power, to deliver her from that captivity which so long she endured, humbly beseeching her grace, to become a favourable solicitor to his Highness, for them, who were to be commanded by their sovereign, whose subjects they were, protesting that neither for envy to him or his, they undertook the action, but at commandment, and to avoid the ignominious title of cowardice, which all of honourable birth or mind, aught to detest. The good Princess which could not tell, whether she might give credit to his words or no, answered him thus.  
My Lord Philiago, under the gréenest grass lurketh the most perilous poison, and experience hath taught me, in my durance, the knowledge of friends, these sudden offers of love to my brother, whom you all know, is long sithence dead, causeth me the more to dread, I am going to him, and that your proffered friendship is but to that end to bereave me of that which long since I wished to leave, if it be so, good my Lord, hide not the truth thereof from me, for therein shall you show your charitable mind to a distressed Captive.  
far be it from my thought, Noble Lady, quoth Philiago, that I should any way delude you, or move you to credit any thing other then truth, whom I have my greatest hope of good, to assure you of which, so pleaseth your Exellence, I will myself bring you to his majesties presence. When the Princess heard him make these proffers of favours, and perceived by his gesture he did not counterfeit, overcome with joy, she was in a trance, from which, revived by the careful industry of the Lady Urania, wife to the Lord Philiago, she gave the Noble man great thanks for his tidings, assuring him on her word, that she would so recompense that good, as he nor his, should have any cause to complain of her ungratefulness. Urging him with her courteous speech, to detract no time but to bring her to the Camp where the King was, which he willingly yielded unto, and causing a stately Chariot to be ordained, and richly appareling the Princess as befitteth her, accompanied with his Lady and two daughters of rare beauty, himself waiting on her disrobed, issued out of the gates, and in short time came near the Camp, and were by the Sentronelles discovered, and brought to the King's presence, who seeing the Princess, whom he had great doubt the tyrant would have murdered, so sudden a joy surprised him, as he might not speak, yet overcoming his passion, joining his face with hers, after many kind embrace, he saith; Phedera, how have the heavens blessed me, in giving me life to behold thee, more dear unto me then a million of lives, whom sithence I possess, as the only joy I conceived hope of in this world, I account my happiness more, then to be possessed of the world's revenue. But tell me Phedera, what are these that accompany thee, strangers to me they are, how friendly soever they have used thee?  
Most gracious sovereign, for these noble persons, I am to entreat, having passed my word, to be their safe conduct from any violence should be offered them, therefore good my Lord, receive into your favour, the Lord Philiago, Treasurer to the usurper, his Lady and daughters, such as are by them protected, so shalt thou honour me the more, by maintaining my word, which relying on your princely nature, I have passed. The Maiden Knight, willing to hold her honour in regard, said; Madam, how his Majesty on the sudden may be won to favour your suit, I cannot say, having had such great cause to revenge him on their cruelty, but for his life, let him thank your grace, if he enjoy it. The King, whose heart pity moved to tender the suit of the princess, coming towards the noble Philiago and his Lady, with great courtesy took them from the earth whereon they kneeled, accepting them to his majesty, using them with such honour & courtesy, that they admired him. After he had revived with his kind confections these sorrowing suitors, he said; Philiago, as I have pardoned thy life, so fail not to tell me, thy King's determination, whether he will yield, or in battle try the event of our fortunes?  
Gracious sovereign, quoth Philiago, that he determines to seek your grace, is more than I can say, for such desperate humours assaileth him, that he is not himself, & friends faileth him, from the Noble to the peasant, whose wisdoms have with grave advise considered, what wrongs hath been offered your grace, and hath upon your Princely motions of mercy, solicited him to pity them, and yield unto your grace, which when he could not be persuaded unto, we all left him, and I in name of all the Nobility, humbly beseech your highness of mercy, who only attendeth but my return, at which time on your gracious word, they will deliver the City.  
My Lord quoth the King, what cause so ever I have in the most extréemest manner to revenge me on you all, yea to the very child that sucketh, that I omit. And that thou and they all shall know I delight not in blood, nor wish I the life of my mortalest fo●, return unto them, and from me say, that if in submissive wise, they issue their gates, and at my feet crave mercy, bring with them their usurping king, I will accept them, so that thou and they shall swear your dutiful allegiance to me and mine, shall be hereafter maintained in such manner as becometh faithful subjects to their Prince, I will admit them to my grace, and will be unto them a loving and gracious sovereign. Philiago, which had that he most desired, uttering with many deep sighs, the joy his heart conceived for his good success, after many humble and hearty prayers for the kings long life in all happiness to be maintained, he besought his grace to give him leave with his happy tidings, to make glad the hearts of those sorrowful Nobles which expected his return, which the king granted, detaining his wife & daughters to attend his sister, whose joys exceeded the extremes of her misery, enjoying her Noble brother, which she was out of all hope ever to behold again. To their recreation we leave them, and pass on with the Lord Philiago, who made no stay until he came to the gates, where diverse of his friends expected his coming. No sooner entered he the City, but summoning the Nobles and Gonernors of the city together, he delivered unto them, what favour he had received of the King, and how willing he was to show like clemency unto them all, upon those conditions specified, whereunto he persuaded them to yield, not omitting any thing to make them mindful of the little hope they had of the usurpers success, for which they had no reason to incline unto him, who had so small regard of them, but rather let him endure the reward of his own follies, then that so many should perish for one man's wrongs. Resolved thus, they hastened unto the Cou●t, at whose sudden entering, the King was greatly appalled, considering in what discontent they parted with him, yet showing a countenance void of all fear, he required the cause of their coming, whom they soon resolved, letting him know each particular of their event, persuading him to patience, for what they had determined should be accomplished. The King hearing his own doom of misery pronounced, albeit it moved him to great impatience, yet restraining choler, he with his smooth speech, besought them of respite for his answer till the next morning, which they willingly consented unto. And so leaving him, they departed each one to his several mansion. But he in whose heart revenge harboured, having his mind wholly bend on their ruin, after he had conferred with such as were as full of mischief, as himself of cruelty, and was by them advertised, what power they were off, he caused them secretly in the night Armed, to assemble at the Court, where in very covert manner they remained, until the time came that the Nobles should come to receive their answer, who void of all suspect of evil, entered the Palace, desirous to know his pleasure, touching the matter th●● between them in question. No sooner c●●● they to t●● king's presence, but the cruel tyrant/ showing in his countenance the pretence of his heart, began in ●●●●mes of great reproach to exclaim against the Nobles, whom he accused of treason and unjust dealing, against him and the state of his country, that flying from him which was their lawful sovereign, sought to supplant him, to Crown another. But Traitors quoth he, you shall reap such reward as your treachery deserveth, and therewithal giving the watchword, his confederates which for the purpose was ambushed, issued upon them, and suddenly surprised as many as they could come by, the the rest that fled, entering the City, proclaimed the lawful king, offering in his name free pardon of life and goods, to as many as followed them. At which offer of grace, the commons, wearied with the oppression of the usurper, in multitudes assembled themselves, and guided by Philiago, they fiercely assailed the king in his Court, flaying as many as they could reach unto, and rescued their fellow Nobles, whose death by the Tyrant was determined, had not the valour and policy of this noble Philiago prevailed. In this exploit, many of the company of the usurper was slain, himself with such as escaped, betook them to the mountains, where they encamped themselves, expecting aid of those he had preferred. But they more regarding their own weal than his honour, and seeing no comfort or hope of recovery, submitted themselves unto the king's mercy, and was of him received. This canuesado passed, the commons with general voice elected Theophilus for their King, Philiago, posted him with all speed to the Camp, and to the king delivered the treacherous pretence of the usurper, with the event of all his and their actions, and in the name of the whole state besought him to receive the Crown, and the faithful love of all the commons. Theophilus hearing the mischievous pretence of this usurper, pitying his subjects that had so long been governed by a prince so ill conditioned, at the earnest intercession of the noble Philiago, guarded with a troop of his trustiest men at Arms, marched he to the City, at the entry rf which, the whole Nobility, bare legged and bare footed, received him, and to his highness delivered the keys of their ports, with presents of rich price, marching before him to the Palace, crying with a general voice Theophilus, Theophilus. The king noting his subjects loves, with hearty thanks requited them all, exhorting them to obedience and loyalty, which if they faithfully followed, he would be a merciful prince unto them. Theophilus, in possession of his Crown, willing his friends should participate with him, dispatched a messenger for the Maiden Knight, the Princess, and her attendants, who all as their duty, obediently fulfilled his commandment, the Maiden Knight excepted; who careful of his charge, and looking into the practices and devices of the usurper, besought his grace to pardon his not coming to Court for a time, until he had seen the event of his affairs, and sending for such guides as he was informed to be well acquainted in these deserts, he put himself in search for the usurper, and his scattered crew, whom in short time he found, to the number of one thousand, on horse and foot, which he no sooner espied, but cheering his companies, which were not above forty, not minding to give them days, he bravely assailed them, and so valiantly behaved himself in that conflict, that after two whole hours spent in hardy feats of Chivalry, there was few of the companies living. The king he surprised as he was flying, with whom he returned to the City, and to the king Theophilus delivered him, who kindly accepting his Present, returning the knight many thanks for his pains. This brunt past, and all things by the valour and good industry of the Maiden Knight, brought to quiet end, the king unwilling to detain his subjects from their own homes, recompensing every man for his service, dislodged the camp. A world of wonder it were, to recount what general joy was throughout the land for the return of their king, & his good success, for which great triumphs were ordained, with justs, Barriers & Tilt, wherein the nobles of the country in great bravery behaved themselves, but the best and chiefest honour in each several action, was given the Maiden Knight, who like himself so behaved himself, as there was no talk, throughout Court and Country, but tended to the general commendations of this noble Prince. Thus as all things hath end, so ended these triumphs, and the King in peace enjoyed his kingdom, which through the Thracian Kings assistance, and the valour of this honoured knight, he obtained. All things quieted, the Maiden Knight, after he had a small time reposed himself from his travels, humbly besought his highness, to suffer him with his companies to departed, which favour, he could not by any entreaty obtain. Wherefore to satisfy the King with his own longer stay, he dismissed his Army, whom the King so royally rewarded, as no man had cause to complain of his time spent, but every one to speak of his honour and bounty. The conduct of whom, after he had with great care purveyed them victuals, with all things necessary, he committed to Vrelia, a noble man of Thrace, by whom the knight advertised the king of his stay, which was chief for the Lord Cariolus, whom they left Vizeroy in Egypt, recommending also his service unto the Lady Nutania, he presented by this noble Vrelia, the usurper unto her, as her prisoner, (and his conquest). Thus all things carefully purveyed, the wind blowing a favourable gale, they embarked themselves, and sailing with a wind as they could wish, they shortly arrived in safety at their desired Port, where their welcome was such of the king, as they might joy to receive it, where friend with friend, joyed for their return, only the Princess endured the greatest penance, missing the return of her knight, who could not be persuaded of his welfare, wanting his presence, yet accepted she the usurper his prisoner, and through the great protestations of the Lord Vrelia, had hope to see him again, whose heart enjoyed small content, wanting his company.  
Here Gentiles we leave the noble Pheander, in company of the Thessalian King, spending his time in small content, wanting the sight of his desired Lady, and his Lady with tears bewailing him, whom she more desired then the world's possessions, to show you what happened the ancient Barnardine, who as you have heard before, left the Numedian Court, with all his possessions, Pilgrimelyke journeying towards Delphos, there of the Oracle to be advertised of his king and the prince's life or death, and coming to the sacred Chapel of Apollo, after his Orisons done and his offerings made, before the shrine of Apollo, the pitiful god moved at his intercession, and considering the faithful love to his prince and country, which is pleasing both to gods and men, after he had with tears bewailed his prince, was thus answered.  
Barnardine, thy faithful love to thy prince and country, we have regarded, and moved with pity of thee and thy commonwealth, whose subjects distressed, desire to have knowledge of their king and his princely son, with what shall befall them, receive these lines which shall import the event of all, yet for a time conceal them, and continue thy travail.  
Barnardine, whose heart was lightened with this comfortable voice, looking about him, espied a paper, which taking up, he read in this manner:  

Ambitious, shall your land with wars annoy,  
Taking perforce, what subjects doth enjoy.  
A foreign power, these Rebel's pride shall quell,  
Through whom, your commons shall in quiet dwell.  
Before his face, whom they suppose for dead,  
The Traitors shall for life, with pity plead.  
A stranger Queen, on kingly seat shall sit,  
Unto whose rule, your commons shall submit.  
Religious, seeing your country's happy state,  
Overcome with joy, shall die at Prince's gate.  
He unto whom your Crown belongs aright,  
Is all in one, a Merchant, King, and Knight.  
Supposed lost, thou once again shalt meet,  
In foreign soil, sitting on princely seat.  
When in thy travail, such one thou shalt see,  
As such there is, which shall be found by thee.  
Keturne thou then, ●●●e dread thy guiltless blood,  
Whose life preserved is, for thy Country's good.   
When the aged Pilgrim had perused th●se lines, musing at the darkness of the same, which he construed many ways, yet had no certainty, wherefore resolving on the merciful favour of the God, which had so pitifully heard his prayer, he passed on his journey in search for those princes which he hoped was living, whom to his travail we leave, to return unto the Princess Phedera, who having the company of the Maiden Knight, had sundry motions of desire to enjoy his Love, evermore applauding his person, courtesy and valour, which so far exceeded all men's in her judgement, that she honoured him for the Paragon of the world, holding her for the most happiest Lady on the earth, which should enjoy his love, wishing that she were worthy of his love, and framing herself by all means that modesty would permit, to gain it. But he whose heart was fixed on his Lady, had no motion of any other, only wished to be with her whom he so much honoured, whose presence, he more desired, than all the riches the world could offoord. Tormented with these restless passions, which was of the King and Courtiers noted, especially of the Lady Phedera, many imagined the cause, yet none so good a physician to find the truth, or cause thereof; as continual care weakeneth the body and causeth many extremes, so Pheander, feeling in himself a weakness of nature, and looking for some disease through his melancholy to ensue, finding the king at convenient time, he humbly besought him of favour to departed, alleging that the air, and contagiousness of those Confines, was nothing agreeing with his body, and that his longer stay, might be by his confusion.  
The king which loved him as his own soul, and tendered his welfare more▪ than the wealth of his kingdom, whom he had found so kind and forward, adventuring his life for his good in many broils, though loath to leave him in whom so much he delighted, yet noting his melancholic humours, which had much altered his complexion, imagined it was no excuse, and therefore the rather condescended to his request, appointing a time as he desired, when if God sent wind and weather, to be ready with their shipping, to conduct him to Egypt, whither the king promised with his sister and nobles to accompany him, for which journey, a strict command was given to all Officers to see each thing necessary purveyed, which with such diligence was performed, as in short time all things was as they could wish or desire furnished, only attending a fair wind to set sail, which they stayed not long for. But a gale fitting their purpose, the king with his sister, the Maiden Knight, and their train, embarked themselves for Egypt, where by the good furtherance of him that commandeth all, they shortly arrived in safety, whose coming, being known unto the Vizeroy Cariolus, with such provision as they could make on the sudden, repaired unto the place of landing, where the king joyful to see the good recovery of Cariolus, in most kind manner embraced him. And so general welcomes being given on all sides by the Nobles, they pass on towards the Palace of the king, who with a general love of his Commons, was to his great delight welcomed, with such shows of joy as on the sudden they could prepare.  
Thus after some time spent in banqueting and other pastimes for their welcomes, to beguile the time the better, the Maiden Knight standing on thorns, until he might behold the sweet content of his lives comfort, finding Cariolus in place where they might discuss at large their minds. The knight not forgetting his promise made to Cariolus in his own country, and willing to make amends for the wrong he had there, thus said:  
My Lord, what I have to impart unto you as one that wisheth your good, is such, as becometh a friend, vowed to do your Lordship what service my ability can stretch unto, only I beseech you, promise on your honour to conceal what I shall discover.  
Cariolus, who both honoured and loved the knight, musing to what these speeches tended, relying on the fidelity of him whom he never had heard or seen to commit any dishonourable action, gave him his word and honour, to be as secret in all things as he could desire, which the knight accepting, thus said:  
My Lord, first I humbly beseech your favourable love, to be continued, and pardon my great offence committed against you, in Numedia, where not being myself, I committed a most heinous offence and dishonourable, for which I am willing to make such satisfaction, as you can require.  
Cariolus, hearing the knight use these speeches of submission, noting them well, and bethinking himself what had fortuned, being in Numedia, could not call to mind any unkindness offered him by any inferior person, neither did he well remember the prince's discourtesy, yet leaving nothing unsought, calling his wits together, bethought him of the prince, whom they forbear to answer, until he had with earnestness noted the phisnomy of the knight, whose face with long sickness, wherewith he was at that time possessed, was quite altered from the form it now had, which made him more to admire. But calling to mind the resemblance of the aged king, he conceived by some signs of his favour, that it was doubtless the prince, yet doubtful he was, for that being so nobly borne, he came to the Numedian Court, with no better countenance than a Merchant. After many thoughts, not willing to offend through rashness, or to offer any unkindness, he humbly besought him in true friendship which he had found, to pardon him, which could not call to mind no wrong done him, nor any familiarity that ever had been between them.  
Well my Lord, quoth the knight, I see your mind is free from revenge, that know not those that have endangered your life, and therefore am the more willing to reveal myself to clear you of this doubt. Know that I am Dionicus, the unhappy Prince of Numedia, who in my father's Court so much abused you, whereof I repent me, and have sorrowed for it. But pardon me good Cariolus, and accept that friendship I vowed unto you, which will endeavour to deserve thy love in all occasions wherein true love consisteth. To give you some cause to credit what I say, I have thought good to find this opportunity, not only to reveal myself to you, whose favour I desire, but to do my best endeavour to deserve the same, and to advance thy estate, if so you can like of my offer.  
Cariolus, amazed at these speeches, after he had with more advised eyes beheld the Prince, was assured it was he, prostrating himself on his knee, humbly besought his grace of pardon, which had so unreverently behaved himself. But gracious Prince quoth he, faults unwillingly committed, deserve the less punishment, I speak for myself which am ready to make amends in performing ●●y penance it shall please your highness to enjoin me, yielding many millions of thanks for that favour you have vouchsafed, in giving me that credit to reveal yourself, to the unworthiest of many in high esteem, which desireth your highness knowledge, vowing by the honour of my Noble ancestry to be governed and directed by the Prince Dionicus, and shall so please it your highness, follow your grace, where soever it shall stand with your good pleasure to conduct me. The Prince interrupting his speech, lovingly embraced the Lord Cariolus, giving him many thanks for his kind offers, which he was assured was faithfully spoken. In recompense of which, my Lord (quoth he,) and to make you some satisfaction for my former wrong offered you, I will en●uour to advance your estate, so it stand with your good liking, in this manner.  
You see my Lord, though with some trouble and effusion of blood on either part, the King in peace and quiet enjoyeth his own Country, and with the Crown of his enemy, is like wise invested. Alluring baits are kingdoms, and have caused many Nobles, who not content with their own estates, to hazard honour, life, and whatsoever else they enjoyed, to attain unto them.  
But my Cariolus, if thou canst frame thy liking to my wish, and bend thy mind to the love of Phedera, the Princess, my endeavour shall be to obtain her for thy Lady, and the Kingdom of Egypt for her dowry, beside, she is heir to her brother, who dying without issue, shall to higher honours prefer thee. This is all my Noble Cariolus, that I have to say, (and so much I say) for that I wish thy advancement, if thou like the Lady, and have not bestowed thy liking elsewhere. Say thy mind, as to him, which not only in this, but in all other matters wherein I may do thee good, command me as thyself.  
Cariolus, who was wise and well demeaned, endued with valour and courtesy, as much as might be required, humb●● returned many thanks for this unexpected good, moved with a desire of kingly dignity, well content to enjoy so brave a princes for his love, without farther stay, said;  
My honoured Lord, I cannot frame my tongue to yield such thanks as my heart would utter, only this good I crave, that your highness continue your gracious favour towards me, whose will shall be ever a law to Cariolus, who will ever be directed by your majesties advise. And seeing most honourable Prince, you have motion of willingness to do me this good, I humbly beseech you continue it, and bind Cariolus in everlasting bands of true friendship to your service. Here were they interrupted, by the coming of the King, who hearing that the Prince was gone that way, delighting in his company more than in any others, came suddenly on them, yet not in such manner, but he was espied of them. The King which saw them so earnest in their speech, coming up with them said; Sir Knight, were my Lord Cariolus a Lady, as he is a honourable Gentleman, I should be very suspicious of you both, that you would find time to stretch a point farther then became you. In faith Gentlemen (quoth he,) as there is brotherly love between you, which the world well noteth, let be a trinity, and accept me for the third person, so shall you honour me more than I will say, and endue me with such happiness as I will not for avoiding of flattery utter. Your Majesty quoth the prince, may jest, but would it were known unto your grace, our loves to your highness, you might then say, you have such poor friends of us, as will ever be ready to adventure our lives in your honourable service. Experience good Knight, answered the King, long sithence hath taught me that, whose eyes are witnesses of your loyalty, which I will endeavour to requite, as when you please to make trial, you shall find, especially you my Lord, whose blood lost in adventuring for me, I can no way requite. Seeing quoth the prince, your highness is thus disposed to jest, pardon I beseech you, what I have to say, and favour me so much, as to hear my humble suit, (and hearing) let me obtain it at your gracious hands, in granting which, your grace shall more honour me then I dare report. Honourable Knight, answered the King, among friends, what should need distrust, my heart grieveth, that the noble Knight Pheander, should doubt to obtain, what ever resteth in my power to grant. Wherefore sweet friend say on, for by the honour of the Thessalian kingdom, whose crown I enjoy through thy good industry, what ever thou requirest shall not be denied. Thanks gracious Lord, not for myself I entreat, but for this gentleman, whose heart having sworn fayaltie to love, which is the sovereign guide of all men, hath framed his liking unto the Princess Phedera, whose servant he hath vowed himself, if then noble Prince, it shall stand with your highness good leisure to accept of him, whose honourable birth and haughty deeds of Chivalry, may merit some esteem with persons of worth, I have my desire, (by granting of which,) and obtaining the Princess good liking, I shall be more honoured, then if your grace had invested me with both the kingdoms of Thessaly and Egypt.  
Pheander, quoth the King, if thou hadst required as much for thyself as thy friend, thou couldst not have honoured me more, whose amity I desire to participate with, above all men of what account so ever: but seeing thy request is for him whose advancement I desire, and for thou shalt know in what regard I hold thy love, I will do my best to procure her love, women have fancies, and are headstrong in their affects, whether she have granted her love I know not, neither can I force her liking, if I could, it were not convenient, for a forced beast is froward, and women wedded to their will. If in their love they should be contraried, were better lost then found, their revenging minds are such, as they will not be quiet, until for their husbands safety they have armed his head with such proof, that he may walfe in safety amongst the best headed stags in my Forest. But leaving this jest, (Pheander) that thou mayst assure thee of my love, my industry shall be to gain her for thy friend, whom I both honour and love, and for you my Lord, I give hearty thanks, that will accept of her, whom I (may say) I love as a brother, who if I can persuade, to your wish, her large dowry shall testify. Our pleasant parley hath procured me a good appetite, my stomach telleth me it is dinner time, wherefore Gentlemen, leaving this talk which is as much conquest as the greatest of Hercules, which did never conquer woman, (unto me) let us walk, and doubt not but I will play the Orator in such wise as shall procure your content Lord Cariolus, and satisfy your request. Thanks gracious Prince quoth Cariolus, which is all I have to requite so great a benefit, only your true liegeman shall I ever continue, and be ready at your pleasure to do you service.  
Here Gentlemen, the story telleth us, that the Thracian King, (as flesh is mortal) vexed with an extreme sickness, was so oppressed therewith, that nature failing through weak age, all physic helps were frivolous, so that perforce he must pay his due to death which commandeth all, whose breath failing at the summon of this tyrant, which may not be entreated, his soul departed this earthly trunk, to see the joys of the everlasting kingdom, whose death his subjects so with piteous plaints bewailed, as might have changed the most hardest heart into a Chaos of lamenting sorrows, beholding their tears, whose body was most royally entombed amongst his Ancestry. But among those which sorrow overwhelmed, and had like to have drowned in death's gulf, the Princess, whom nature forced in some sort to lament, as a child having lost her father, was so weakened with her plaints and hearts sorrow, that long time it was not to be thought she could recover it, so much was her tender heart touched, eftsoons bewailing her father's death, and then again, grieving for the want of her Love and Lord the Maiden Knight, of whose safety whom she more desired then to be Lady of the whole earth, could not be persuaded. Long did she languish in these extremes and could not be comforted, in so much that she rather desired death then to live. But he that in extremes is our best comfort, preserving her for the Commons benefit, sent her health, who being recovered, the Coronation finished, and the Crown by common consent of the Parliament confirmed unto her, many offers of marriages were made unto her, for which, humble suits of her Council were not omitted, who desired nothing more, then to have the issue of her noble body succeed her. But no persuasions might move her from the Knight, who had the chief interest of her heart, to whom she had vowed herself, protesting likewise, never to grant her love or liking to any one, but only to him. This resolution so much grieved her nobles, that nothing could breed more discontent, yet as duty commanded, framed themselves to her government, who with such wisdom directed all things for the benefit of her common weal, that it was admirable to behold that wisdom in one of her sex.  
But to return to our matter. The Thessalian King, who minding his honourable word with the noble Pheander, finding opportunity, gan question his sister in this manner.  
Phedera, since the decease of our dear parence, thou hast been left unto my government, for whom, (without boast) or desire of benefit of thee or any, I have had that care as of mine own good, and ever will, so thou be ruled by me. And for I see thy years requireth to be linked in marriage, that thou mayst participate in love with thy husband, and spend the prime of thy years as is fitting thy estate, I have found a Gentleman of honour and valour, such a one, as on my word loveth thee, and I have cause for his pains in my service employed to honour. Therefore good sister, if thou love me as a brother, and hast not bestowed thy love elsewhere, in this matter be ruled by me, and in doing whereof, thou shalt find me thy brother, and most assured friend, who will ever be as careful of thy well doing and honour, as of mine good. Say therefore thy mind plainly, and let me know whether thou dost love, or canst love?  
The Lady, whose wisdom was such as balanced her honour, not knowing whether her brother were in in jest or earnest, thus modestly said; Gracious Lord, and my dread sovereign, pardon I humbly beseech you, your subject, and suffer me not through my fond answering so frivolous a question, which you urge but for my trial, to procure your displeasure, or mine own shame.  
Why Phedera, quoth the King, you mistake me, if you think I jest, for on my honour, I mean what I say, therefore dally not with me, if you hope of my good. But tell me if thou dost love, or wilt love my friend?  
The Lady hearing the King in earnest, although she could be well content to have enjoyed the sweet pleasures of love in marriage, thus said; Dread Lord, and my most gracious sovereign, sithence it is your pleasure I should answer your demand, Know, that as modesty is the ornament of Maids, and chastity, the garland that beautifieth all our sex, so have I carefully weighed mine honour in such manner, that I neither love, nor as yet ever made choice of any in love, but have eschewed all such frivolous motions of the flesh, to my greatest power, as beseemeth a Lady of such honour. That I may love, I doubt not, because it is the commandment of our maker, and incident to all creatures, who in their kinds make choice of some one to participate with: yet shall my love never be such, as may disparaged your highness love towards me, but such as shall be to your content. And for your grace's pleasure is to bestow me on a man so honourable, so standeth it with your will to let me know him, I will answer more directly.  
God a mercy for that wench, quoth the King, than I doubt not but we shall have a match, or else thy wisdom is not such as I wish it were. But tell me unfeignedly my Phedera, canst thou love the Lord Cariolus, a man for birth honourable, for valour, to compare with most adventuring Knights in the world, in person comely, and so dibonire in his behaviour, as for courtesy he is to be matched with the best? He is the man Madame, whom if you can fancy, thou honour'st me in thy love, and thou shalt find me a brother, nay a father, if father's love may exceed the brothers▪ Say therefore thy mind, and let me know thy answer?  
The Lady whose hope was, her brother's suit had been for the Maiden Knight, with whose love she was a little touched, yet modesty mastering such fond motions, would not let affection take such root but that she could at her pleasure expel it.  
After the Lady had heard her brother, whom she perceived by his earnestness in uttering his suit, would not willingly be denied, she said; Pardon me my good Lord, if I pass modesty, considering your great praise of the Gentleman, believe me, he is much beholding unto your Grace, who could have thought you would have proved so good a solicitor? had your study been the Laws of this Realm, no doubt, but you should have had many Client's: were the Gentleman here himself, he could not have said thus much, and therefore he may think himself beloved and honoured of your highness. But for answer, as I would not have you in your first wooing disgraced, lest it discourage you in your own enterprises being a bachelor, so can I say little of myself, who is to be governed by you, to, whom in all humbleness I refer me, and shall so you be pleased, be content, if it were with one not so worthy as the Lord Cariolus. (And yet)  
Nay Madam, quoth the King, leave not off so abruptly with an aparentizes, your words are doubtful. Tell me therefore, is there any other before me? if there be, and thou hast made choice, (and you both agreed) I will not gainsay it, nor tie thee to any other than thy own content in marriage. Therefore say, what those words (and yet) imported?  
Pardon my over boldness, gracious Lord, answered the Lady, which unadvisedly overpast those speeches, and credit my word, which have no love fixed in my heart, but will endeavour myself to the liking of him whom you shall command me, yet will I answer your demand, and meaning of those words, taken so by your grace at rebound, though I must and will, frame me to the love and liking of the Lord Cariolus. Yet had the noble General been pleased, and with that, a deep sigh stayed her tongue, in such wise, as she could go no farther.  
The King understanding which way the wind of her desire blew, though he could have been better content with her choice, yet to put her from other thoughts, and to have his suit take effect, he persuaded her to let slip such fond imaginations, for that he had placed his love on a Lady of his Country, whom he would not leave for all the world. With these happy tidings for the Lord Cariolus, after some other kind speeches to the Lady, the King departed, so joying in his good success, that he could not rest until he had comforted the Lord Cariolus with his answer, whose mind egged on by the Maiden Knight, was so fixed on the Lady, that she was become the mistress of his heart, and he joyed in nothing but in contemplating of her love, thinking every day a year, and every hour a month, until he heard the King's answer, musing thus on his Love, tossing with a mind disquieted, from one side the bed to the other, his Page brought him word, that a Gentleman from the King, attended to speak with him, which sudden news, revived so his spirits, as made his heart more light, then long time before it had been, hoping to here such happy tidings as his loving suit required. The Messenger having delivered his messsage, judge you that be lovers, whether you could slack any time until you heard the doom of your mistress, which he was assured to do by the King, unto whom he hasteneth with such speed as he could. To whose presence being come, the king as joyful for his good success and his sisters grant, as the Lord Cariolus to hear it, with a smiling countenance, which showed the joy of his heart, said;  
My Lord, though my skill in wooing be but small, having never accustomed myself to any such practice, yet have I played the cunning Advocate for your Lordship, and will assure you, so you hold your word and promise, the Princess shall be yours, and thereon take my word of honour.  
Cariolus, so over joyed at these tidings, could not well tell whether he heard the King speak, or dreamt of this happiness. But standing a while in an ecstasy, his senses being come again, with eyes ghastly beholding the King, thus said; My honourable and gracious Lord, what may I do to requite your Princely favour, who hath vouchsafed me so great honour, not only to bestow your only sister on me, but to become my honourable solicitor, what I would say, modesty compelleth me to conceal. Only this I assure your Majesty, my loyal service shall ever be ready at your command, in such dutiful manner, that your Majesty shall have no cause to repent you of so great a good done unto a stranger. Enough my Lord, few words doth suffice among friends, wherefore forbear these speeches, love my sister, and for her sake, think of me as a friend, which will be ever ready to do you what pleasure I can. To give you some interest of my faith, appoint the marriage day at your pleasure, and for her dowry, accept this kingdom of Egypt, which shall remain to you and your heirs for ever, only this homage shall you yearly tender in my Court of Thessaly, two swift running Coursers of this Country, and so God make you happy in your love, and a joyful father of many children. With this the Maiden Knight entered his presence, unto the King what man so welcome, his duty done, the King lovingly embracing him, said;  
Sir Knight, I have not long sithence comforted your friend with my happy tidings, and not only assured him of a wife, which I hope will prove loving and kind unto him, but have invested him with the title of King of Egypt, of both which, I wish him so much joy, as I desire to have joy, his wedding day let him appoint at his pleasure, which shall with the greatest honour I can be performed.  
Most gracious and dread Lord quoth the Knight, how this your honourable courtesy have tied me unto your service, I omit, that at my request hath thus favoured my dear friend, whose good I esteem as mine own, and ever will be ready with my best endeavour to serve, at all times and places where my force or service may do either your Majesty or my Lord Cariolus good. And seeing it is wrought to his content and your Graces good liking, let me entreat this favour of you both, that the wedding may suddenly be solemnized, for that my stay may not be long here, such desire I have to see my sovereign Lord, who I am sure expecteth my return long before this time. Sir quoth the King, did you know how displeasing those speeches of your departure were to me, that desire nothing in the whole world so much as your company, you would never harp so much on that string. But how long so ever your stay shall be, this day eight days I do appoint for the wedding, so my Lord Cariolus be agreed, and say Amen.  
Never quoth Cariolus, let him be allowed for Clarke, which refuseth to say Amen, to such a parson, the Orisons bringing such content, seeing your Majesty refers it to me, Amen say I, and humbly thank your Grace for your honourable favour.  
The wedding day appointed and assigned, the King sent for the Princess, who that night supped all together, which being ended, the Princess, in presence of many of the Lords of Thessaly and Egypt, was betrothed unto the Lord Cariolus, and the marriage day appointed, against which time, were all the nobles summoned to be at Court to attend the King, by whose commandment all the preparation for honour of that day might be devised, was ordained, the time of night being spent, summoned their watchful eyes to sleep, wherefore after many solemn adves, taken one of the other, they hastened on all sides to their rest, only Cariolus and the Princess best content, she joying in her Love, and kingly brother's liking, and he blessing a million of times the day wherein he first saw the Prince, procurer of his so great good. What other imaginations assailed them, let those suppose and think which have felt the sweet content in love. To which I leave them, to recount unto you the sorrow of the Thracian Queen, who ruling with honour, beloved both of Pheres and Commons, in as much royalty as might be desired, endured so many sundry torments of mind, wanting her most desire, that the day was irksome unto her, and the night ordained for rest, restless she consumed, that with her continual watchings, and others passions, he● body became weak, and a grievous sickness assailed her, the cause, none could imagine, neither might physic minister any cure to her disease, so that given over to the death, she lanquished in great extremities, not daring for modesty, to reveal the cause, only this was her chiefest comfort, when she could be freed from the company of such Ladies and counsellors which visited her, with Guenela to recount her love, sometime extolling his valour and person, and eftsoons accusing him of disloyalty, exclaiming on her hard fortune which had engaged her liberty to a Knight careless of her honour and good, cursing and accusing Guenela, being solicitor for such a wretched Knight, whose speeches oftentimes was so answered by the Maiden Guenela, as in jesting wise would she turn her words of despite into laughter, such was the sharpness of her wit, which left no means unsought that might procure in the least manner her content. Oppressed with great grief we leave the Princes for a while, to return unto Cariolus. whose wedding day being come great was the joy on his side, but more the preparation of all courtiers, who were ready with many costly shows, at the Tilt, Turney, and Barriers, to try their valour and fortunes in Arms. But as the fairest day is overcast with clouds, so was their mirth changed to great and grievous lamentions, and their joy to sorrowful complaints, which thus befell.  
The King now in prime of years, desirous to try his force at the Tilt, with his presence to honour his Nobles and do the Princess favour at her marriage in these pastimes, made choice of the Maiden Knight, to encounter him, as the worthiest in Arms, who being of all others most unwilling to deal against him, humbly besought his grace of pardon, and accept of some his Nobles who was more worthier of that honour. But the King with whom no entreaties might prevail, would not be denied, which made the Knight with great heaviness of heart to wish he had not Armed him that day, such was his discontented mind, which doubtless presaged some ensuing evil, as to the great grief of all the whole company happened them. Thus when no denials might prevail, the trumpets sounding a charge, they set forward with such swiftness, as the earth trembled under their horses, both breaking their staves in such manner, as all the company with joyful shouts applauded their excellent skill in that exercise. But alas, in midst of this pleasing practice, how suddenly their joys were eclipsed, woe is me to recount. The King and his elected companion, at the trumpets sound, setting with courage forward to encounter one the other, in brave manner broke again their staves, but in an unhappy time, a splinter of the knight's staff, by most unfortunate chance, entered the sight of the King's Beaver, which pierced the head to the brain, in such wise, that with the heat of his travail, and grief of the wound, he was enforced to forsake his horse. This sudden mishap, to the company brought such discontent, that all their mirth laid apart, sorrow was made Lady of the feast. But amongst those that most lamented this unfortunate chance, the Maiden Knight had his part, whose grief was such, that had not the Lord Cariolus been by fortune present, in the extreme of his melancholy passion he had slain himself, such was the wisdom of the Noble Cariolus, as his reasonable persuasions prevailed so with him, as he caused him forsake his doleful Lodge, to accompany him to the presence of the king, whose masters of Chirurgery, had newly ended their travail of dressing his wounds, them the Knight questioned of the danger thereof, and besought them in courtesy to acquaint him therewith, whether he held it mortal or no, which how unwilling so ever they were, as loath to discomfort the King or those which loved him, such was the courteous entreaty of the Knight, as he could not conceal the danger thereof, but revealed unto him the little hopes they had of his life, and the reasons that induced them thereunto, which news, was little pleasing unto the Knight, who with many tears lamented that mishap, but grief ministereth no physic to the diseased, nor sorrow availeth not to mitigate extremes. Wherefore by Cariolus comforted, he ceaseth in so exceeding manner to lament, determining to abide the King's doom, unto whom he purposeth to reconcile himself, and to that intent awaiteth the waking of his Majesty, who was after his dressing fallen a sleep, whose grief was such, as he could take small rest. But rousing himself, awaked from his slumber, called for the Lord Cariolus, who was waiting for the same purpose, unto whom being come, he saith;  
Cariolus, let no man boast himself of happiness which is mortal, for that they are subject to crosses, and casual mishaps, as thyself mayst witness with me, and many others that have seen this mischance befallen me, when I least expected it, the original of my grief proceeding from myself, which would perforce my good friend to the action whereunto he was so unwillingly drawn: but what heavens have ordained, what man can gainsay. The omnipotent power of the Almighty, hath laid his cross on me for my greater good, to call me from these worlds vanities, to seek his everlasting kingdom: Yet ere I leave this frail life, sweet Cariolus let me see that honourable Knight, by whose hands death sent his sommance, dear he was unto me, and his love worthy to be embraced of the mightiest Monarch. Oh Pheander, couldst thou but imagine with what faithful love I loved thee, thou mayst sorrow for my loss, whom thou and all the world cannot reclaim from this great hazard wherein I remain. With this the knight which was not far off, presented himself unto him, who kneeling at his bed's side, said;  
Most gracious sovereign, might my grieved heart which overwhelmed in sorrow, is 〈…〉 in a sea of many miseries, consume itself with grief, for my evil committed against you, how happy a creature were I, which have been the occasion of your highness so great unrest, yet how unwilling, heavens record with me. And therefore my dread sovereign, pardon my fault so unwillingly committed against your Majesty, as dear to me as mine own soul, whose life, if ten thousands lives depended thereon, I wish might be sacrificed for thy health, and the loving subjects of of my gracious sovereign, whom by my over-hardinesse, I have rob of so loving a Prince. Let me I say, chief causer of your sorrow, reap the guerdon due to a murderer, and revenge your king's death, by taking my life, which had I a million of thousands lives, could not make satisfaction for my evil committed against you. Here tears interrupting him, denied his tongue liberty of speech, whose lamentation, filled all the nobles with such heaviness, as for tears they could not utter a word, especially the King, whose grief being great, was increased by his doleful lament, yet casting of this womanish humour, drying his eyes, doubting the nobles and those present, should accuse him of fear, (dreading to die) whereunto we are all born, with a soft voice, tenderly wring the Maiden Knight by the hand, he saith; Noble Gentleman, cease thy heaviness, thy grief so augments mine, that the thought thereof, wrings tears from my heart, thy unwilling offence, with my heart I forgive, and to show how dear in life thou wast unto me, (my good Pheander) accept at my dying hand, my kingdom of Thessaly, the lawful inheritance of thy faithful friend, love those people, my kind subjects, & so govern them with favour and lenity, as they have no cause to complain of my dead course, & for my life which by thy hand through the appointment of him that gave it me, I must leave, I hearty forgive thee, and accursed be he or them, which shall ever impute i● unto thee, in dishonour, any fault against me committed. That thou lovedst me, thy tender care of my good hath showed such proofs, as tied me in true friendship to be thine for ever, Death is not so irksome unto me, but that I must leave thee, and the sweet content I received in thy company: grief of my death's grief, my own Pheander, compelleth me omit what I would say, wherefore briefly thus; Forget not thy dying friend, and show that love to my Lord Cariolus, whom for thy sake, I have to this Crown of Egypt advanced, as I ever found, and in extremes comfort him with thy aid, as thou hast done me, my sister Phedera forget not, whom to thy charge I commit, leaving her to thee, and thee to be in my place a brother, who living loved her, as my hope is thou wilt. And so dear friends, heavens blessedness befall you all, and so prosper you, as I loved you. And you Pheres of Egypt and Thessaly, whose love I have found as subjects, in all dutiful manner, let be continued unto these your elected Kings, who will with honour govern you, so shall the giver of all happiness bless your lands, with the blessing of peace and plenty, for they that honour their king, doth reverence the Lord who created him, and he will give them plenteous rewards. Noble Gentlemen, grief cutteth me off, flesh must yield to earth how loath soever, the mightiest, death hath vanquished. Therefore as my Vltenam vale, remember my words, and pray God to send us the abundance of his grace, that we may through his mercy, have a joyful meeting in his kingdom that never shall have end. I feel the heavy messenger approaching, therefore farewell to thee my dear sister, whom I charge as thou lovedst me living, be loving and kind to thy husband, doing him that honour is due unto him, thy children bring up in fear of their maker, and so God bless thee with happiness. And thou Pheander, unto me, no creature in life more dear, remember my parting speeches, love the Lord Cariolus, as I have loved thee, and thou my adopted brother Cariolus, honour him during thy life, that I am sure faithfully tendered and loved thee, so shall God be pleased, for no sin in sight of his divine deity, is more intolerable than that monstrous vice of Ingratitude, which for avoiding the heavy wrath of of God, I wish thee eschew. Nobles and you all my very good friends, to exhort you to remember your duties, whose wisdoms is more than I will recount, were a matter frivolous, and perhaps may move some offence, yet take my simple meaning which speak to you that have overloved me, which love let be continued, honour your Kings with reverence and love, for what you do to them, is done to God, which are his Vize-Regents on earth, and his anointed. Move no rebellion, nor be maintainer of evil, for such faults, how secret so ever, God will to your overthrows reveal. Remember his word, which hath commanded you to be obedient without murmuring, and fear him which governeth all. I can say no more, my speech faileth me, therefore generally my Lords, farewell, and so turning his weak body to the wall, surrendered his soul to the heavens, from whence it had his being, to the intolerable grief of all his subjects, who with many brinish tears lamented his death, but especially the Knight Pheander, and Cariolus, whose marriage, the loving King honoured, with his funeral, which in the most honourablest manner, Art or honour could devise, was solemnized, lamented generally of all his subjects, but especially the Egyptians, who more dearly loved him for his clemency, than their own natural King.  
The funeral finished, a Parliament was summoned, in which time, the Maiden Knight so prevailed with the Nobles of Thessaly and Egypt, that by common consent of the whole assembly in both houses, temporal and spiritual, the regiment of both kingdoms, was delivered unto the Lord Cariolus, and the Maiden Knight, resigned his interest for ever unto him and the Lady, who was lawful inheritrix unto the same. The Parliament prorogued according to the custom of the Country, great preparation was made for the Coronation, which in most solemn and honourable manner was accomplished, with so many sundry shows and delightful pleasures, as might weary you to read. Let it suffice to the great joy of both Realms, all things to so honourable an action was so exquisitely performed, as no man but took great delight in beholding thereof, praying with an universal voice for their long lives, to be in happiness amongst them continued.  
Thus all things to the joy of the noble Pheander accomplish, and to the high content of the King Cariolus and his Queen, by the advise of the Maiden Knight, an election was made of a Vizeroy to go for Thessaly, the King making choice of two evils the least, conceiving this opinion of the natural subjects of Thessaly, that they would live in their dutiful obeisance, when a conquered nation gathering head upon many light occasions, was easily drawn to revolt. These considerations with great wisdom weighed, the Lord Fardinand, one of the privy Council of Thessaly, was elected for that government, unto whom, the King after his Commission signed, and honourable gifts given, so wisely exhorted to obedience, and care of his love and duty, that as many of the nobles as were present, and noted the same, admired him, rejoicing that God had provided so for them, to leave them in the government of so toward a Prince, of whom so much ensuing happiness was expected.  
Orders taken for his affairs of weight, the Vizeroy embarked for Thessaly, and his Nobles departed, each one to their several mantions, saving such of his privy Council which were attendant at Court. The Noble Pheander, was now to take his leave, the very remembrance whereof, was more offensive to the King and Queen, than all their former troubles. Bootless it was to entreat his longer st●y, who standing on thorns, till his desire was obtained, in beholding the most beautiful Princess, might no longer be persuaded, wherefore the King to honour him the more, by whom he was for ever honoured, caused a Fleet to be prepared of twenty Galleys, whom by his strict commandment, was most royally furnished with all needful viands, and other necessaries for his voyage, which on such sudden was purveyed, as might well show their diligence to whom that great charge was committed. All things ready for his departure, and a fair wind blowing a fresh and comfortable gale, these friends were now to departed.  
After leave taken of the Princess, who with many brinish tears bewailed the same, the King with his Pheres accompanied him to the water side, where his company appointed to attend him, awaited his coming, where after heavy parting on both sides, and many tears spent of the commons which beheld their sorrows, he embarked himself, and by the good favour of the winds, and diligent industry of his Mariners, suddenly los● sight of land, and had the wind so favourable, that in short time they attained sight of the high land of Thrace, with which they bear all that they might, yet could not possibly recover their Port that night.  
This Fleet of Galleys being on the shore descried, none could imagine what they were or should be, to prevent the worst, the Council careful of their own safeties, and commons good, assembled, the power of their City, making provision for defence, what ever happened.  
The master of the Admiral, not daring to enter the harbourght by night, lay off again into the sea, hulling until the day watch was in hand, at which time they set sail to go for their harbourght, and by favourable assistance of the winds, recovered the same. After the Sun had showed herself in her beauty two hours, to survey which power, and to give notice to the Queen what they were, the Lord Aminta●, Lord high Admiral of the land, was in a Frygotte sent, who bouging as much as the force of his staves would permit him, being a man honourable and venturous, not knowing what they were, whether friends or enemies, came up with the Admiral, and laid her aboard, of whose coming, the Maiden Knight being advertised, doing him duty, caused his Flag to be furled, and his Ancient to be taken down, whose order the whole Fleet followed. When the Admiral saw the Knight Pheander, whose welfare they greatly doubted, between them was much rejoicing and many embracings, as friends joyful to see one the other. Passing in pleasant parley the time, they came to Anchor, at which time, according to directions given by the Knight, all their ordinance was discharged, with their small Artillery, rejoicing according to the sea manner, for their safe arrival, to the great admiration of all the beholders, which could imagine no certainty what they were: no sooner was the anchors ground, but the Lord Admiral causing his Frygot to come aboard, entered the same, accompanied with the Maiden Knight, and other Nobles of Thessaly and Egypt, which came to accompany him, as Ambassadors from the King, who were all most royally entertemed of the Nobles, which attended their landing, and were conducted to the Court, where according to their estates they were sumptuously lodged in the Court, and like order taken for purveying for their train.  
Amongst others that had inquired the news of these strangers, and what they were, Guenela by chance, as women are inquisitive of novelties, had with diligence learned what those Nobles so royally entertained were, with the arrival of the Maiden Knight, who was no sooner known unto the joyful Maiden, (made more joyful by these happy tidings) but standing en thorns until she came to the presence of the Queen, doubting lest her news should be so stolen before she came, as it would be scares worth the carriage, she omitted no time. To whom being come, and finding the Queen in her accustomed melancholy passions, though new some way otherwise employed about the imaginations of these strangers, to put her from her study, thus said.  
What Madam, ever in your memento, in faith were I of your privy couns●ll, and might persuade with you, I would wish your Majesty become Lady of some Nunnery, where you might have company, since nothing may delight you but contemplation.  
Guenela quoth the Queen, cease thy fond talk at this time, and give me leave, who have matters of weight to employ me on.  
If it be so Madam, (quoth Guenela) I am to crave pardon for my boldness, otherwise, if it might not have been offensive, I could have acquainted your highness with some news of the Maiden Knight, which because I see it is troublesome unto you having business, I beseech your grace licence me to departed, until it shall please your Ladyship to find leisure to hear me.  
The Queen hearing her name the Maiden Knight, was so waked from her dumps, as she called Guenela, and with earnest entreaties besought her to let her know, what news she had heard of those strangers, and what moved her to name the Maiden Knight?  
Madam, (quoth Guenela,) if your Ladyship would have permitted me to speak, I had without farther delays, acquainted you with such news of these strangers, as I hear, and have diligently inquired, who are Nobles of Thessaly, in Embassage for the King, accompanied with the best welcomed Knight in Africa. The peerless Pheander, your graces sworn servant, the naming of whom, so revived the Queen, that he that had the worst sight might have perceived how pleasing these news were unto her, yet doubtful of her maidens speeches, which often had deluded her, to move delight, the said;  
Guenela, thou hast had more pleasure in feeding me with vain hopes, then hath contented me, yet have I borne thy follies, imagining in what sort they were used. But now Guenela, leave thy jests, lest they grow odious, and move me to choler against thee, which would not willingly be drawn unto. Therefore tell me without dallying, is my knight arrived with these Nobles, or is there certain tiings of his good health by these strangers?  
Madam (quoth Guenela,) if my overboldness have incurred your displeasure, I humbly crave pardon, who had no intent to offend, he witness with me, which searcheth my deepest secrets, but to assure you of what you so much desire, know Madam, the Maiden Knight is with Nobles arrived, who as I hear, are come from the Lord Cariolus, who by procurement of the Maiden Knight, is married with the Princess of Thessaly, and is royally Crowned by consent of both Realms, lawful King of Thessaly and Egypt, the one, his queens lawful inheritance, the other, the late King's bequest, who by unhappy fortune, hath left this life. Thus Madam have I acquainted your highness with what I have heard, the truth thereof being proved, I hope will procure my pardon. Guenela (quoth the Queen, ten thousand times I thank thee for thy tidings, which I will so requite, as it shall be the best news that ever passed thy mouth, to give thee some assurance thereof, take this Diamond, which she pulling from her finger, delivered her, and look for a better reward. The hasty approaching of the Council, interrupting their speech, caused them cease their farther parley, who staying the queens pleasure, sent her word, they had some matter to impart unto her, who were presently admitted to her presence, accompanied with the Maiden Knight.  
The Council having done their duties, the Maiden Knight presented himself unto her Majesty, whose sight so appalled her, as she could say nothing, shamefast modesty striving with her willingness to bid him welcome, which she could not do as she would, lest her countenance should disclose her hearts desire, yet not omitting such honourable favour as she could do him, she offered her hand to kiss, which in all humbleness he accepted, acknowledging his most bounden duty unto her highness, whom the questioned in this manner.  
Servant quoth she, we had thought your liking had been such to the Dames of Thessaly, as we should have been invited to your wedding, or that your entertainment had been so evil in our Court, as you were weary of the same, that you have thus long absented yourself from our Presence, (under Benidicitie) servant, as you own duty to your mistress, make me your ghoastly father, and before my Lords here present, tell me and dissemble not, what hath been the cause of your long stay?  
Gracious sovereign, quoth the Knight, if I answer what is truth, I hope your Majesty will accept it, and pardon me, if in my harsh answer I pass those duties which I would not willingly do. For my love to foreign Ladies, I may justly deny, which neither saw any since my departure from your Confines, in whose presence I took pleasure: During my long stay, how unwilling that hath been, I call to reccord these Nobles strangers, which can testify my long desire to have tendered my dutiful service unto your highness, whereunto I am bound. Therefore dread Lady, pardon my offence therein, who being at a foreign Princess commandment, must obey it.  
Well servant quoth the Queen, I must give credit to your words, else should I do you wrong, but how so ever, you are wel●●● to your mistress, who is a debtor of yours. The sight of this Noble Ph●●ti●●, wrought more effects than all the medicines Art could minister, whose presence quite expelled all former cares from her Princely heart, though her body weakened with her long lanquishing, could not be so sod●inly restored. But time, and short time, with the comfort she conceived of her loving Prince, restored her to her former health, as you shall hear, in the ensuing history.  
Now return we to the Nobles, who awaited her highness pleasure, for which, the Queen counting of her speech with the knight, thus said;  
Honourable Lords, if it be no matter of counsel for which your coming is at this time, let us know the cause, my servant I dare commit some trust unto, who shall participate of these your affairs. Mighty Princess, (quoth the Lord Parsinio,) matter of state concerning the government or affairs of your Commonweal, we have not to utter, but only do beseech your highness, to command for your honour, that these noble strangers be entertained according to their estates, with such courtesy and bounty, that they many have cause to speak of your Court and honourable entertainment, as of a worthy deserving Prince. And more, to do your noble subjects honour, the Lord Cariolus, who by marriage of the deceased King's sister, is Crowned lawful King both of Thessaly and Egypt. This is all most gracious Lady, whereof if you please to conceive, and give order for the same accordingly, you shall highly honour us your subjects, and gain to yourself the famous report of strangers, which is the garment that beautifieth Princes, and governors of states.  
Thanks noble Gentlemen, (quoth the Queen,) for your honourable care of us, which are not acquainted with any such matters, wherefore I beseech you my Lord Parsinio, to keep them company during their stay here, let my Officers attend them, and their allowance be such, as may not impair our bountiful mind, thereby to deserve honour, (if feasting be honourable) especially let their train be well purveyed for, both in large allowance of viands and lodging, for those are they by whom fame will ring, being of the base sort, either of honour, or dishonour, as for their Embassage, we will omit the hearing, until God endue us with some more strength, and so farewell.  
The Nobles having done their duties, and gone, it may be imagined, whether the Knight departed with consent or no, on whom the Queen bestowed so gracious a look, as he might well judge of his welcome, but command his longer stay she would not, to avoid the suspicion of jealousy, or that her love should be in the least sort suspected, Contented with the ●ight of her beloved, after their departure, commanding the rest of the company from her, detaining only Guenela, between them began some pleasant parley, wherein, first the Queen, and then Guenela, descanted at their pleasure of the Knight, emitting no gesture he used in his speech, his person, and what else greatly delighted the Princess, who would often say, how mannerly is my servant become? yea quoth Guenela, it is hard to say, whether he learned the same of man or woman, nay on my word, quoth the Princess, I dare acquit him, for any company keeping with women, his maidenly blush, assureth me that he hath learned no courting fashions of the Thessalian Ladies, (Credo) quoth Guenela, and Madam so ever believe, for a good belief, is a step to salvation, or by my hollydom, your chiefest chaplain is not so just a man as he ought to be. Thus pleasantly discoursing, we leave them, to recount unto you the royal entertainment of the Thessalian nobles and their train.  
The Lord Parsinio, to whom the Queen had delivered this charge as you have heard, took such care in performance thereof, that as he was noble, and every way endued with honourable conditions, so was his care, in discharge of that trust committed unto him, as the nobles admired their royal cheer, their diversity of sports to beguile time, with costly shows, each accident so exquisitely performed, as the thoughts and imaginations thereof, moved th●se strange nobles, when the company had left them to their rests, in contemplating of their gracious entertainment, to consume sometime the most of the night, admiring the bounty of the Queen, whom they with earnest minds desired to see. As these Nobles consumed their time with pleasure, which made it seem the shorter, so the Queen which had care for receiving their messsage, after the first fight of her servant, began so to comfort herself, that with those comfortable confections her Doctors provided, and receiving such viands as physic thought most meetest, she began to recover her decayed colour, and her faint limbs over weak with forbearing such sustenance, wherewith nature should be relieved, recovered their strength in such wise, as it joyed her subjects to hear of her recovery.  
Time which overcometh mighty things, hath brought the Queen to that good estate, as finding a day wherein the suns power, vanquished the airs rheumatic coldness, the walked into the garden, where she solaced herself, beholding Nature's habiliments, which beautified the earth in such manner, that the pleasantness thereof, with the sweet smells, bred her great content. The Maiden Knight, which had desire to show his duty in attending her royal highness, hearing this happy tidings, hasteneth to the garden, whom the Queen no sooner saw, but calling him unto her, after his duty done, and her Majesty taking him up from the ground from off his knee, she said;  
My Lord, what excuse can you frame now, for neglecting your duty to your mistress, which cannot have your sight being in Court, without a messenger, if the sight of any one attending us, be offensive unto your Grace, we will remove them, rather than lose your company, so we may know them.  
Noble Princess, answered the Knight, that I acknowledge not my duty as I ought, pardon me, and weigh in the balance of your gracious clemency, my zeal and hearty desire to do you service: who albeit my heart desireth no such happiness as your Princely presence, yet knowing that Princes have many eyes to behold them, and Envy lurketh in the hearts of subjects, who imagining more, then is on either of our parts thought, may with their evil speech raise that scandal, as may blemish your renown being a virgin, and procure my greater trouble which am a stranger.  
Cleanly excused quoth the Queen, I see now good servant, you have not spent your time idly abroad, if I might know your school mistress, I would be so bold to thank her, for the diligent applying her scholar.  
Madam quoth the Prince, I am glad to hear your grace so well disposed, I hope your Majesty, having recovered strength, and your business with these nobles over past, will think of your servant, and remember your word to me, which challengeth the same at your majesties hands.  
My Lord, quoth she, had I not held thy love in regard, I could not have denied the many suits of my Pheres and Commons, which have besought me, and with great earnestness entreated me to marriage, but so dear hath thy love been unto me, that I desired death, rather than falsify my faith to your grace, for whom, and through whose unkindness, I have endured much heart's discontent.  
No more of that quoth the Knight, good Madam, expel from your mind passed griefs, and think upon the ensuing pleasures which will exceed all the discontent hath been: to hear your discontent, is little pleasing unto me, who never closed these eyes, nor never beheld the rising of the glorious Sun, without millions of times remembering your grace, whose presence I more desired than I will explain. Guenela seeing some of the Council entering the Gardaine, gave them intelligence thereof, breaking off their speech thus.  
Sir, if you have taken orders in holy Church since your departure, it is more than is expected of all the court, which in time past have showed yourself so worthily in Arms, to your lasting honour. If you have, and her grace have chosen you for her ghostly father, enjoin I beseech, her majesty, to some easy penance, for her long sickness is not to endure much fasting, beside, here is of the Council, who hath waited to say something, either to the Queen or your grace.  
These words of Guenela, caused them surcease their talk, and with shows of loving countenances, to give each other the farewell. The Knight framing his talk to Guenela, who finding him alone, thus said; Sir, experience of mine own discontent, hath taught me, what a corifive melancholy is, to a pleasant mind, who in your absence, have endured many sharp words, yea, and oftentimes, those thundering speeches, lighting with blows either on my ribs, head, or face, (in revenge of which,) had you been present for whose sake I endured them, I should have adventured the cracking of a sword with your grace, or greatly have wanted of my will.  
Why how now Guenela, quoth the Knight, art thou metamorphized? hath the Gods joined thee habiliments of a man, as well as armed thy heart with courage? (faith wench) art thou so valiantly minded to break a blade? take heed, 'tis dangerous for your sex to deal with weapons, but I will desire the Queen to search you, least happily as ●ad a chance befall her maids, as Dania, which entertained jupiter, in likeness of a Swan, If Guenela, be likewise by their consents alienated from her sex, it were good to prevent evils in time, had I witted, cometh too late.  
My Lord, quoth Guenela, blushing with shame, your Lordship hath through my fondness, taken me at advantage, misconstruing my simple meaning, which have ever honoured you: Conceal my folly in this, good my Lord, and forget it, and pardon my fond words, which have felt many stripes for you.  
Nay Guenela, quoth the Knight, I may not with my honour let pass a matter of such importance, without revealing it to her highness, lest your words (as you say) spoken in jest, turn some of our Ladies in earnest, to be beholding to mother Midwife.  
The Queen which had reposed herself, with beholding the beauty of nature, and taken the pleasant air which did greatly comfort her, having some conference with her nobles, departed the garden, which made the rest withal the speed they could make, to follow, whereof Guenela was nothing sorrowful, who was thereby compelled to leave the Knight, of whom she wished long before to have shift her hands.  
The Queen gathering some strength, was loath to detain the strange Nobleses longer from her Presence, wherefore by her Nobles she limited a time to hear them, against which day, was all her nobles summoned to be at Court, with her Ladies and women of account to attend her Majesty, who with the Lord Steward of her household, had taken such order for all diversity of vyandes that might be provided. The day appointed come, not unexpected of the strangers, who provided themselves as sumptuous as they could, appareled after their country manner, attended the time of her majesties coming forth, who being come, and in her Chair of Estate set, word was brought unto the strangers, who marching with the nobles of Thrace through the Court, was in most honourable manner presented unto her Majesty, who with countenance debonair, and grace majestical, as became her royalty, bade them all welcome, in such courteous and Princely manner, that the strangers at this first fight were driven to great admiration, beholding that grace and honour in a woman, which they would never have believed, had not their eyes been witnesses. The Queen having given them these hononorable welcomes, each man taking his place, Ormania, the chiefest in Commission from their King, thus said;  
Magnificent Prince, our King, your highness late subject, acknowledging his humble duty to your Exellence, hath sent us his liegemen and sworn servants, to signify the same, who in faithful love voweth, never to be alienated in mind from that duty, which becometh each natural subject to owe his Prince and country. By us he presents his offer of service, which shall be with all his power ready, at your highness pleasure: the rest his honourable Letters shall import, which humbly kissing, on their knees they delivered into her Princely hands, who returned many thanks to their King for his love, with like to them, which had vouchsafed that travail; to see her Court and Presence, beseeching them to take in worth a maidens entertainment, in doing which, she should think herself much beholding unto them.  
With pleasant parley, and discoursing of sundry matters and questions by the Queen propounded, touching their Countries, they passed the time until dinner, not without great admiration of the strangers, which beheld her stately grace, her sumptuous attire, the duty and honour done by her nobles and Ladies, which with their costly apparel and rare exellence in beauty, greatly delighted them. The time of dinner drawing near, the tables covered, and all things prepared for the same, the Queen taking her place, the Ambassadors were likewise placed at another table in her presence. The manner of her service, with the diversity of viands of all sorts, was such, as they could hardly believe, so many sundry kinds of soul, fish, and other, cheer for them prepared, were to be found in the limits of the earth. Thus with wonderful delight, cheered still by her highness, they passed the time until the end of dinner, never forgetting the majesty of her grace, which so honourably bore her, as no Prince could in her time compare with her. Dinner ended, the Queen courteously bidding those strangers welcome, she was conducted by her Nobles into a Gallery, which for beautiful shows with rare pictures, and devices of rich price, was so adorned, as the strangers had never seen the like. Not long had they passed the time in noting those glorious devices, but the Courtiers, who had provided themselves to do her highness honour, and cause her delight, which had so long time withdrawn herself from all pleasures, armed in all parts, with each man his several devise, they entered the yard, appointed of custom for the Tilt, where a window opening from the gallery, the Queen with the strangers were set to behold those pastimes. The whole company come, each one for honour of her grace, delivered his Scuchion of devise, unto her Princely hands. Where Gentiles suppose you, that know Ladies praises, or dispraises, what happened. Where to beguile the time, was each devise by the Queen and her Ladies, surveyed with such vigilant eyes, as nothing was unremembered, every one giving their judgement according to that affection they bear the presenter. While they were thus descamnting, and the Marshal with the judges, appointing each man in his degree to try himself, behold, a pretty Page, mounted on a light running Courser, with his guide before him, winding his horn in posting manner, coming near the place where the queen was, lighted from his horse, and being not of height answerable, to deliver his Letters with his hand, putting them on his wand, (after his duty done) humbly kissing them, he delivered them unto her majesties hand, which the queen perusing, questioned the Page if he had aught else to impart? Who answered, Most famous Prince, my Lord and master, hearing of this assembly which fame hath bruited, to the honour of this royal company, and high commendations of these nobles, hath sent, as not daring to approach the place without their lawful favour obtained, who for honour of his mistress, which he affirmeth, and will maintain, to be the most exquisite Lady for all perfections in the confines of the earth, he offereth at the Tilt, with each gainsayer, to break six staves. If there be any such that will accept his challenge in maintaining his mistress honour, let me know him, who shall soon be answered. The Page being unknown, the nobles wondered what he might be, which without exception had made this challenge, imagining that he was some man of valour, and that it were discourtesy to deny a man at arms whatsoever. thereon generally concluding, they returned him by the Page, this answer.  
Page, though thy masters peremptory challenge, deserve rather to be maligned, then accepted, yet such is the nobility of Thrace, as honouring Arms, and all professors thereof, accept the same, and where we had appointed every one his companion, we are content to remit that election, and to bind all our force to his dishonour, and so to him unknown, commend us, whom we entreat to Arm suddenly, and speed him hither. The Page receiving his answer of the nobles, the Queen calling him which mounted was ready to departed, said;  
Sir Boy, to thy unknown Knight commend us, whom we thank, for vouchsafing us that honour his Letters import, which our nobility have without any suit of mine accepted, of whom he shall find men endowed with courage. The Page departed, sundry were the imaginations what the Knight might be, who had offered them this proud challenge, in midst whereof, a trumpet sounding, they expected the challenger, who entered armed in all parts, with black armour, which was garnished with many wounded hearts, on the breast, a Lady with a cloth of fine lawn whipping them, overspreading as many as she could reach with a scarf, carnation coloured, his word (in Greek) despair not,) pacing on with easy paces, according to the use of the place, coming near that end of the Tilt which was opposite with the queens window, vailing his head to her Majesty, she graciously had him welcome, shaking her hand. Long had he not stayed, but the Lord Martial in like manner, with show of great courtesy bade him welcome, and desired him to prepare himself, for the defendants attended him. My Lord, quoth the Knight, at their good pleasures, when they shall put themselves forward at the trumpets sound, I will meet them. Thus warning given them, without longer stay, the Lord Vrelia, his copartner in Thessaly, set forward, whom the Maiden Knight met with such force, as his feet were too big for his stirropes, and he likely to have taken a more disgrace being unhorsed. This first encounter was noted of all the nobles, who commended his strength regarded him nothing, but with such valour met him, that he made him to his great disgrace, forsake the saddle, at which a general shout to the Knights great commendations was given. The Lord Vrelia having had his part, another came in place, who went not away without some disgrace, so generally behaved he himself, and with such honour and valour bore him, that the judges, fathers of Arms, gave the honour of the day to him, whom they all, though a stranger, highly commended. The Knight coming before the Queen, humbly doing his duty, was with his Trumpet sounding ready to departed, whom the nobles would not suffer, without his knowledge, beseeching him, not so much to dishonour them, of whom he had deserved honour, in such manner to leave them. The Maiden Knight, who would as willingly have revealed himself, as they desired, though he made show of some discontent, yet would not deny their request, but calling for his Armourer, opened his Beaver, who being known to be the Maiden Knight, they were all the more honoured, taking no disgrace to be foiled of him, by whose hands so many had lost their lives, which were honourable and expert in Arms. Being discovered, he presented himself to her majesty, who not a little joyful of her servants good fortune, whom the graced in this manner. Servant quoth she, thanks for your pains, and honouring us at this time, for which I ensure you, I think myself much beholding, it had been pity, truantlike you should have left these honourable Lords your friends without having acknowledged yourself unto us & them, who you shall see, will be careful to procure a Surgeon, who doubtless shall cure those bleeding hearts, if any such there be ofskill in Thrace. Honoured Lady, quoth the knight, the well spring of courtesy & nobility, most humble thanks I yield your majesty, for this grace, without whose favour and grace, to whom in duty I am so bounden, I desire not life. This said, the Queen and the strange nobles departing, supper being ready and they set, their table talk was of the brave behaviour of the Knight, who had all the honour attributed to him, that was to be required, wherein the strangers were joyed, loving him dearly, and to increase the fame which generally was given him, they in presence of the whole assembly, declared the honours her majesties Champion had gained in Thessaly and Egypt, with the death of their King, who of a wound by his hand at the Tilt, died: leaving nothing unspoken which might any way honour him, whereof the Queen joyed not a little, though she concealed the same.  
Supper ended, and some part of the night spent in dancing, masking, and other Courtlike pastimes, the Queen commending the nobles to their rests, bade the company good night, who entering her lodging, it might have joyed the heart of any Lady in love, to hear the general laud of the Ladies, given to the Maiden Knight, of whom no other talk was to be heard, each honourable part in him commended to his desert, and of his valour in Arms, no praise was sufficient: wherewith the Queen was not a little pleased, nor Guenela discontent, to hear the only Prize of honour given her Lord, by whom she had hope for her passed service, to be preferred. Thus joying on all parts, we leave the Queen with her company to their rests, and return to the Nobles strangers, whose commendations and honourable reports of the Knight was such, that nothing could be more pleasing unto them, applauding the wisdom and noble demeanour of the Queen, whose like in her time, was not as they supposed to be found: with such sundry discourses, passed these Nobles the night, to which we leave them for a time. These Princely pastimes overpast, the care of the Queen was for dispatch of the Nobles of Thessaly, whom she was loath to detain from that desire they had to see their Country. Wherefore, after some two or three days spent in discoursing of their countries, and state of their realms, with the commodities thereof, eftsoons interlacing their discourses, with some pleasant parley, wherein the Nobles were much delighted, the Queen took order with her Council for their answer, limiting a time therefore, to the good content of the strangers. Against which prefixed time, the Queen having care of her honourable word, had their Letters all written and signed, when omitting them to a banquet, she in such honourable manner delivered their answer, with such words of love, and desire of good to their King, as overcome with joys thereof, the strangers were not able long time to answer, presenting their King and Queen with gifts of high esteem, and highly rewarding their honourable pains, which they gratefully accepted, taking order for Galleys with victuals, and other necessaries to be purveyed with speed and beuntie.  
This honourable entertainment of the Queen to those strangers, being in the prime of her government, gained her such honour through their reports, that those which heard the same, admired her, whom they imagined was peerless, for wisdom, bounty, and courtesy, not omitting the favour and love of the Nobility, of whose worthiness, they could never speak sufficient.  
As time finisheth the greatest affairs, so the careful travail of those to whom the provision of the Fleet was commended, was such, that there was no wants in short time left unfurnished, that lacking nothing but a fair wind, which he that commandeth wind and seas, sent in such happy time, as they could with, which not willing to lose, they commend the health and happy government of the Queen, to him that ruleth all. And so accompanied with the Maiden Knight, who was loath to leave them, and many other Phéeres of the land, they were conducted each one to his several Galley, where being embarked, their Sails cut, and they affore the wind, they gave their farewell, with such a brave ringing peal of great Cannons, and then likewise their small Artillery, as wonderfully rejoiced the beholders, which by the Gunners from the queens Forts a shore, was as worthily answered. Thus parted these nobles, who in short time arrived in safety in Egypt, with their King, unto whom, having delivered the Prince's Presents with their letters, they omitted no reports of their honourable entertainment of the Queen and her nobles, in such manner, that where they or any of their train long time after became, their table talk, was only of their honourable welcomes in Thrace, ever applauding the magnificent grace, wisdom & bounty of the Queen, whom they gave the Prize unto, of all that lived in her time, leaving nothing unremembered, which might any way impair the honourable reputation of her nobles, which used them with all the courtesy & bounty becoming their estates: but especially the Maiden Knight, the discourse of whose valour and manner of behaviour, bred more delight than the rest, for that the nobles and commons had knowledge of his valour and worthiness. These honourable commendations of the nobles, joyed the King, who in his secret thoughts applauded her highness favour and courtesy, that for his sake and honour, had used those his subjects in all Princely manner. But amongst those which took pleasure in hearing those discourses of the nobles, the Queen inflamed with their reports, burned with desire to see this peerless Princess, as the second part of this history shall show you. Till when, leaving the King with his Phéers to their solace, return we to Thrace, Where the Knight emboldened by the favour of his gracious Lady, was not so great a stranger with her highness, but that he might at pleasure repair to her presence, with whom by his earnest suit, and desire to be possessed of her whom he so much loved and honoured, he egged her on still to marry, which for she would not do, without a general consent of her nobles and states of the realm, she caused a Parliament to be summoned, at which time, finding her fit opportunity, she imparted her determinations in this manner.  
Honourable Lords, and you our loving Commons here assembled, let not those few words I have to say unto you, breed any discontent, that will deliver nothing dishonourable to my state, and your disparagement: to withhold you from the same long, were more niceness than wisdom, wherefore briefly thus.  
Since I was by permission of him that exalteth and pulleth down Princess, at his will, I am by your honourable & general consents, Crowned Queen of this realm, to whose government you have as lawfully descended from him whom you all loved and feared, committed yourselves, since which, you have all with shows of honourable love, and care of our state and realms, by sundry examples persuaded me to marriage, which you say, may breed your happiness, whose good, he that searcheth my heart's secrets, knoweth that I more prefer then my life, on whose suits so often made, I have advisedly considered, and noting the many perils incident to our sex, which rather require to be governed, then to govern, the name of King being feared, honoured and loved, through fear, when they hold our sex in contempt. All which considered, with your former suits, if I grant to your request, I doubt not, but I shall find that favour, which the poorest of my subjects have, freely to choose, where their loves and like leadeth them, which if you grant, I shall hold my love well bestowed on you, and shall have cause to think your request in times past hath been honourable, and not to tie me to any inconvenience, assuring you, that whatever he be that I shall bend my liking unto, shall not disparaged my estate, nor dishonour you, but be worthy for wisdom, valour, and what else is required in honourable persons, to mate the Princess of most renown on the earth. You have heard what I have to say, and wherefore chief this Parliament was summoned, of which I crave your answers.  
The Nobles and Lords, both spiritual and temporal, with the Commons of both houses, hearing the queens motion, were all mute, not knowing suddenly in a matter of such weight, what to answer. But removed from their dumps, the Speaker being both wise and well demeaned, as befitted his place, humbly prostrating himself, thus said;  
Most gracious Princesie, albeit your majesties request to this honourable House, is no more than we have earnestly sought, yet pardon our sudden answer, and give us respite of time until to morrow, the remain of this day, so it stand with your Princely favour, shall be spent to hear the censure of all estates in these Presence, whose love and duty is such, as they will deny nothing, wherein your royal and honourable estate is not disparaged, but in all things, will with all humbleness subject themselves to your highness pleasure.  
The Queen loath to require such haste in answering her question, graciously commanded him to rise, granting most willingly to his demands, for which the whole assembly with a uniall voice, gave her Grace most humble thanks.  
The Queen having delivered the sum of her desire, graciously commending them to his will that frameth all things, accompanied with many of Phéeres, departeth.  
The Queen departed, all matters in questions laid apart, the Phéeres and most chiefest of both Houses, assembled themselves in Council, where you must suppose, no matter for benefit of the state, was omitted. The request made by their Queen, with great advice considered, which amongst them was admired, where many imaginations assailed them, devising of each side, what he should be that is in so high esteem and favour with her Grace, and of such worthy reputation as she hath reported him, eftsoons naming one, than some other, yet the principal object of her love never remembered, which drove them all to an non plus.  
But what ever he were, time of their own desire to answer, craved some dispatch of what they had in question. Wherefore leaving frivolous questions, they proceed to their begun action, gladly would they have been certified of their elected King, but in vain it was for them to require it. Wherefore considering their own desires, they thought it would be taken in evil part of her highness, to gainsay what with such humble and earnest suits they had required, assuring themselves of her wisdom, government, and care of their goods, which was so wise, and every way so honourably demeaned, which considered, thereupon relying, it was generally determined, to refer all to her own will, pleasure, and good liking. On which resolved, the chiefest of the Nobility, accompanied with diverse of the Clergy, in hope of the queens good acceptance, speedeth them to the Court, who suddenly was advertised of their being, with their request, which was, to have access to her highness. No sooner was her highness thereof certified, but leaving her Chamber where she was busily employed about those businesses which she had in hand, devising of the answer of the Commons, leaving all, she speedeth her unto them, where taking her place, their duties in all humbleness done, and she with all honourable courtesy requited it, the Speaker in presence of the whole assembly, thus said;  
Dread Sovereign, the Lords both spiritual and temporal, with commons in this honourable Parliament assembled, weighing with care and wisdom, the honour of your highness, and carefully tendering the weal public, have with great care of both, (the premises) considered, with your majesties request, albeit, they have no knowledge of his honourable person, unto whom your royal liking is united, yet relying on your Princely wisdom, and care of your subjects, by whose welfare their happiness is to be maintained, with one uniall consent, they willingly subject themselves unto your highness will and pleasure, assuring your grace, that whom you shall vouchsafe to endue with title of Lord and husband, they will accept for their sovereign, and will in all humbleness, acknowledge with loving hearts their duties unto him, as to their lawful King, by your majesties election. Thus my gracious Lady, have they willed me to say, in behalf of them all, and most humbly beseech your highness, to make known unto them the name so honoured, which you have vouchsafed to like, to the end they neglect not that duty which is due unto him by your good grace.  
The Queen hearing this answer of her Commons, was more joyed, and in heart contented, then ever she was since the death of her father, her loving countenance showing the content of her heart, so long discontent, which made her, with most lovely grace and courtesy, to say;  
My Lords all, and you of the Commonalty, you have in yielding to these honourable motions by me made, highly contented her, whose desire in love, made me not so headstrong to consent without your general liking, my choice being such, as may be mated with the oneliest Lady of highest esteem in the world, as I doubt not yourselves will confess, when he shallbe known unto you, my high esteem of him laid apart, for that you may say, affection is blind. And as the Proverb saith, The Negro by nature, black and loathsome in our eyes, esteems her Infant fair, so Love, which commandeth all creatures, caused many Princes and Ladies of worth, to submit themselves to base estates, Imperious love so over mastering their hearts, to assure you that my liking is not such, and to satisfy you, which with your courteous consent hath contented me, know your so elected sovaraigne, and he that I have subjecteth my love unto, is of no less worth than a Prince, royally borne, and descended from the loins of a King famous, and a Queen endowed with much honour, himself showing his royal descent by his demeanour, which is valiant, wise, and courteous, such a one, I know your desires is to choose for your sovereign: all affection set apart, such a one have I chosen, which shall cause all your joys, if you joy in any good. Where breaking off your speech, with other words of courtesy, yielding them great thanks, she called Guenela, whom she commanded, to send some trusty messenger for the Prince, willing him, all business set apart, to repair unto her, which done, framing pleasant discourses which delighted the nobles, she sought to their contents, to beguile the time until the messenger returned, which made such haste, that he found the Knight, unto whom he imparted the queens pleasure, which albeit, the sodeinesse thereof, was troublesome unto him, cloying his head, devising of sundry matters, which her hasty sending for him should import, yet neglecting no time, he speedeth him to the Presence, where to the Queen he was the welcomest man living, as her countenance declared; who calling him unto her, commanded a chair to be brought, and seating him on her left hand, to the admiration of all the beholders, which done she said;  
My Lords, and you our loving subjects, muse not at this unwonted favour used to this Gentleman, nor repine not, for that it is your own choice. This is my choice, and he that I have sworn my love and loyal affection unto, who albeit hath thus long subjecteth himself to our service, doing us many high favours, as your own eyes can witness, induced unto it by that high commander of men, who hath procured many Princes to the like: for our love, as I am assured, he abandoned his Kingly seat, disguised in the base attire of a Merchant, came to our Court, where what honours he hath gained by his valour and courtesy, not one of you but know Numedia, being his native soil, and the kingdom his by lawful descent from the King his father. Let it not dismay you my friends, nor judge my words spoken of him for his honour, to be more than truth, so shall you wrong him whose worth you may be by my reports assured off, and injury her which had never intent, but to deserve well of you all. Therefore as you have your desire knowing him, in token of your love and general consents, by whom he is your adopted King, show by your signs of content, how pleasing my choice and liking is unto you.  
The Nobles amazed at the queens speech, although they could hardly be induced to believe what she had said, yet such was the love they honoured her with, that giving credit unto her words, without longer pause of the matter, that the Queen might the rather be won to credit their former speech, with a universal voice, prostrating themselves before him, they cried, God save the King & Queen, vowing unto him loyalty and failtie, as unto their King and sovereign.  
Thanks good my Lords, quoth the Prince, for your good consents, and doubt not of my love to you, which with such hearty affection shall be showed, that my dearest blood shall be shed, ere the least hair of the basest of your heads shall perish. Which said, the Queen standing up, requested the Nobles, that as they had with consent elected him their King, so they would appoint the time for solemnizing the marriage with the Coronation, changing his name from Pheander the Maiden Knight, to Dionicus, the lawful heir of the Numedian Crown, for that was his right, and the name of Pheander, but usurped.  
Which request of her Majesty, they easily granted, appointing the marriage three days following, and the Coronation presently to follow, which to their great joys was accomplished, with all the honour might be done by their subjects, the costly shows, and all manner of delightful pastimes there used, I omit, albeit it was pleasing both to their King and Queen, and brought great joy and comfort to all beholders. The marriage with the Coronation past, the Commons delighted with their King, assured his grace, to be so honourable as the Queen had reported him, and they found, who in that Parliament to honour the Thracians the more, and let them know, his love was no whit inferior to theirs, he entailed the Crown of Numedia, to the lawful heir of Thrace, succeeding, assuring them, that his Nobles and Commons, should confirm and assure the same.  
Which courteous favour, the Nobles so gratefully accepted, as they returned him for the same, many gracious thanks, the Parliament prorogued, according to custom of the Country, their duty in all humbleness done, the Nobles, with the chiefest of all parts in the land, wished the Queen and King many happy days, to their joy and hearts content: which they requited with such shows of love as might delight them, and give them cause to joy in their Prince's election, of whom their comfort was great, & their assurance of tranquillity with foreign Princes, through his magnanimity, to be such, as all true subjects might have pleasure to recount. Their leave taken, every one departs well content, to his home.  
Thus the King and Queen, enjoying hearts content, their loves more and more increased, that there was no talks but of their faithful love and hearts liking, through which, the Commons lived in peace, praying for their long lives to be continued. To which content in love, the story leaveth them, recounting the arrival of the aged Barnardine, in Thrace, who with his long travail came unto the Court, where wandering Pilgrimelike, living by the devotion of bountiful people, he spent some time in contemplation, others in viewing the beauty of the Court, and manners of the people, eftsoons commending their religion, and serving their creature, taking much pleasure in discoursing with such Pilgrim strangers as he meet, of the diverse conditions of those Nations, whose Countries he had seen, which being many, he affected no Princes Region, as this Country of Thrace.  
The aged father over worn with grief and long travel, was so much altered in his face, as he that had well known him, might very well have mistaken his feature, which made the King, who oftentimes had noted his comely person, his Pilgrims attire and other ornaments, to religious belonging, greatly to affect him, little suspecting it was the aged Barnardine. But as time revealeth greatest secrets, and bringeth friends to knowledge, so the King taking pleasure, beholding this Pilgrim, noted him so often, that his phisiognemy to his memory, presented the feature of his beloved Barnardine, which imagined thought, began to take such root in the King, as he greatly desired to have some conference with the Pilgrim, evermore persuading himself that it was his noble Tutor, and careful Physician. To assure him of that doubt, he determined to have knowledge of the aged man if he might, and for that intent, caused his Pages to give diligent heed, if they saw him in the Court, to bring him tidings thereof, which they did according to his majesties commandment, attending with such care, at that usual time he was accustomed to come, that he passed not of them unperceived, whereof they gave the King intelligence, by whose command, he was summoned to his Presence.  
The aged Pilgrim at this first somance of the messenger, was in such dread of wrong to be offered him, as he greatly feared some ill to betide him, knowing that Princes have many eyes, and strangers are marks, how poor so ever their estates are, specially frequenting the Court as he did, yet he whose conscience could not accuse him of any evil intent against the King, had this hope, that God whom he served, doth protect the innocent, and would deliver him. Thus casting his care on him that commandeth Kings, not without many imaginations what should be the cause he came unto the King's Presence, unto whom, as one that knew his good, he prostrated himself, praying heartily for the King's prosperity.  
The King which saw the old man bowing before him, kindly took him from the ground, tendering his age, which he honoured, whom the more he noted, the more the lovely face of his beloved Barnardine, presents it unto his memory, the thought of whom, caused his heart to much sorrow, yet shaking off grief, of father, kingdom, and friend, he said; Aged father, in whose face appeareth gravity, tell me, of that dutiful love thou owest thy most beloved friend, of what Country thou art? and what fortunes hath brought thee to this region? that honouring thee, whose age requireth the same, I may further thy suits if thou have any, or wanting wealth, I may leléeve thee. The woeful Pilgrim, revived by those honourable speeches of the King, said;  
Renowned Prince, the mirror of honour, of whose fame the world is filled, to satisfy your Exellence, know, that occasions of importance thereunto moving me, I forsook my native Country, in search of those whom my fortune was never yet to meet, yet have I traveled many kingdoms, and in my travel, have seen many Prince's Courts, and noted their several demeanours, yet most gracious sovereign, never took I pleasure in any, as in this Country of Thrace, the nobles especially giving me cause to admire them whose minds show their true Gentility, as the fruit maketh the tree known, in which taking delight, I have, though more than beseemeth a stranger, so often frequented thy Court, wherewith, if your grace take any offence, I humbly beseech your pardon, which am now ready to departed.  
The King, which had heard that tongue so often read him many Lectures, and given him instructions of honour, was not deceived him, though albeit he forbear to acknowledge him, whom he desired so heartily to see, unto whom he was more welcome than any man living, yet concealing himself, he said;  
Father, thanks for thy love, and honourable report of our realm and people, for which I rest thy debtor. But say me, aged man, of what Country art thou? and what account were those friends with thee, whom thou with such travel hast sought? whether thyallies, or thy friends by adoption. At this motion of the King, the old man overcome with the thoughts of those of whom his pitiful tale was to be told, could not forbear tears, which with such abundance of sobs and heavy sighs were uttered, that it moved the King to great ruth, seeing those silver hairs which he honoured, bedeawed with salt drops, the witness of his his discontent. Wherefore like the careful Physician, having ministered bitter Pills to his Patient, seasoneth the same with some sweeter taste, he comforteth the aged Barnardine, with words so pleasing, that it cheered the old man, yet would not pardon his report, which caused him say;  
Famous King, if pity of my age may any way move you, urge not my faltering tongue to utter a tale of such ruth as it importeth, the remembrance whereof, overcloyeth me with sorrow, and will bring your Exellence small delight. Therefore sovereign Prince, pardon me, which cannot reveal the truth of so pitiful a tale, (as yet) without the hazard of my life, my heart so overcharged with grief, that to think thereon, halleth me near to death, then pardon me. But how loath so ever, the King might not be entreated, whom with such pleasing speech he halled on, that comforted by his majesties kind words whom he would not gainsay, he said, sithence nothing may persuade your Exellence to pity me, accept in worth my rudeness, and pardon it. Which said, humbly doing his duty, as one that could his good, he thus proceeded.  
Dread Lord, know Numedia is my native soil, where through the grace of my thrice noble Prince, I consumed my youth in that happiness, favoured by his favour, with the best of account in that Region, & so graced by the King, that he committed the government of his dear son, more dear to him then his life, to be trained up by me, of whom, as duty willed me, I had that care as is required of a subject to his Lord, joying in nothing the world possesseth, so much, as in the towardness of the Prince, whose virtuous youth, might be a lodestar to all that ever I saw, for courtesy matchless, bountiful as Timon, more valiant than Hector, or the best deserving that lived, cunning was he in the liberal Arts, what should I say of him whose honourable praise, no tongue can with such commendations utter, as his honours and virtues requireth, so generally beloved of all men, that death is more sweeter to many thousands of his subjects, than the remembrance of that Noble Prince. Here tears restrained his speech, that he could not utter a word, standing so astonished, that he rather represented the Image of death, than a living creature, whom the King put from his heavy passion thus.  
Father, thou hast filled my heart with a world of wonders at thy strange talk, which I conjure thee, of that love thou owest the Prince whom thou sorrowest so to remember, not to leave in such abrupt manner, but proceed, died the King, and the Prince so of thee honoured, and through their deaths 'gan thy travail. Say sweet father?  
Though the reporting of this doleful history, more grievous unto me then death, should finish my days, yet such is the penance by your majesties conjuring speech enjoined me, that what grief so ever I endure, I will satisfy your grace.  
The Prince, oh my Lord, that it would please you to pardon the rest, growing to years of discretion, I know not through what means, neither could I for all the diligence I used, attain unto it, but sick he was, and so oppressed with such a strange agony, that no physic could minister relief unto him, or yield him any ease, so that there was small hope of his recovery, the strangeness of each maledy being such, as sometime faring like a man frantic, no persuasions of reason night prevail with him, who in his health was to be ruled in all things. This passion so long assailed the Prince, and so little hope of his recovery, that the extremity thereof, 'gan touch the King and Queen mother, whose careful love was such, as nature could not require more in parence whatsoever. The continual grief of the prince, wrought such care in the aged King & Queen, that it was not to be found which of them was most grieved, or whose lot it was to give his due to death, first, yet as no care is so great but hath some comfort, so the commander of men, when all hope of life, was past hope of men, restored the Prince to health, and by his health, recovered the King and Queen, for whose weal, the Commons more rejoiced, then of their own good, so that a general joy was throughout the realm, triumphing at this happy recovery of the Prince, the King, and Queen. But as the fairest day is overshadowed with clouds, so was the sunshine of their joy eclipsed, through the great folly of the Prince, who unknown of all men, or acquainting any with his pretence, left his father, Crown, and subjects, and liveth no man knoweth how, or where, for whom the King felt a million of woes: grief so assailing his aged corpses, as he was like to rest with death, but reason subduing affection, he recovered his sickness, and leaving his land without a governor, likewise departed, whither no man knoweth. The mother Queen being of nature weak, resigned her due to death, whom as duty commands me, I entombed with such honour as beseemeth the person of a Queen, and so persuaded with the Commons in a Parliament for the same intent called, as the government of the Realm was committed to six of the nobility, who are bound to resign their authority when the lawful succeeded shall require it, which done, I forsook all I enjoyed, and Pilgrim like as your highness sees, have traveled many Countries in search of my sovereign the Prince, but for all the diligence I can use, of them can learn no tidings. Thus with tears standing in his eyes, he ended his lamentable history, which the King was assured to be true, but least was the thought of Barnardine, that he had delivered this doleful tale to the Prince, which had likewise some cause of grief, which so near touched him, as he could not for tears utter what he would, yet putting by his passions as he could he said:  
Aged father, matter of great ruth hast thou delivered, which to hear is most lamentable, and may touch that careless Prince near, by whom this chance hath chanced, his parence and subjects: but tell me father, all grief laid apart, in what state liveth the subjects of thy King, under their government which hath the charge, yet is your grace not satisfied quoth the Pilgrim, but will exact on me more to increase my grief, which seeing you delight in, I shall unfold that which in recounting, will finish all, yielding my breath to him that gave it me, therefore attend.  
Not long sithence, unknown, I chanced to accompany in my travail, a Gentleman of Numedia, to me well known, which for I saw I was out of knowledge with him, I questioned him of many matters, as your grace hath done me, which amongst other his news of discontent, reported that those elected governors, whose hearts broiling with ambition and desire of the whole authority, as the title of King, to the ambitious is sweet, so these covetous wretches, taking part one with the other, some inclining one way, some to the other part, that civil dissension was raised, where the father bear Arms against the son, the son against the father, and kinsman against kinsman, one imbruing their hands in others blood, through which, many a woman is left a widow, and many a sweet Infant fatherless, which makes me greatly fear, without his help, that sendeth all help, to the helpless, the land will be impoverished, and our King and Prince returning, shall from their proper right be debarred, by these usurping villains, whose hearts, my aged teeth in revenge of their treachery, and wrong done the Commons, I could tear. The Prince hearing that tale of discontent, was moved more at the wrong offered the Commons, than all the former history, which made his say;  
Father I have noted thy long talk, which hath moved 〈…〉 th' to sorrow and desight, grieving for the Commons 〈…〉 〈…〉 joying that any Prince should have a subject of such worth, as is rare in these times to befound, wherefore father, that thou mayst live in my Court to draw others to their 〈…〉 i've to their Prince, I will here detain thee, and for thou lovest that careless Prince Dionicus, will honour thee 〈…〉 g my life, enduing thee with treasure, and what else▪ thou shalt at any time command, for all I enjoy is ●h●●e, ●●● if hereafter thou shalt think it convenient, I will with ● 〈…〉ng power, ●●●er their distressed Confines, and ●h 〈…〉ing those Rebels, leave thee Regent in their place, until further tidings shall be of thy King or his son, whom I am ●●re will not abuse them.  
The aged father, hearing th●se honourable speeches from the mouth of the King, was astonished, knowing well that Princes of esteem honour themselves, holding their words, yet not minded to give over search for his sovereign, he returned the King humble thanks, beseeching his highness to pardon him, which hath vowed to end his life in performing his vow to the Prince, and either hear tidings of him, or never see his Country, the place of the world most pleasing unto him. The King hearing his words, having great experience of his fidelity, could conceal himself no longer, but embracing him in his arms, bedewing his aged hairs with drops like rain, he 〈…〉,  
Faithful Barnardine, the mirror of true friendship, whose equal in love is not to be found, what cause have I to honour thee, whose care is such of me, that have so ill deserved, but forgive me Barnardine, my miss against thee committed, forgive me noble father, and you subjects of Numedia, who by me unhappy creature, have been so much wronged, and thou Barnardine, my careful Tutor, forgive me I ●ntreate, and continue thy love to me unhappy Prince, whom